Mark, firstly on behalf of Bardon Latrobe FC thank you for coaching over the last two seasons. What have the been the highlights for you?
There is not just one single highlight for me, but many. I love the trips up at Coolum, seeing the effects of alcohol on the “Powell” boys was something I won’t forget in a hurry. On a football front, beating Newmarket is always a nice feeling and we have done it both times at home 6 nil and 2 nil…”sweet”
Why are you leaving?
The resources available to me as coach and the commitment at BPL level is hard to compete against and has made the lure to coach at BPL level again too “inviting” to refuse.
Have there been particular players that have stood out for you?
There are several players who have stood out for one reason and another and not just seniors. However, the majority of the squad are good players, nice lads and it’s been a pleasure to coach them. Whilst not all of them will be sorry I am leaving (that’s life), however, I’d like to think the majority of them appreciate the time, effort and funding I have put into the team the last two years.
The Capital players talk with awe about your organisation skills, how do you find the energy?
Simple mate, I don’t do things by half measures, you either commit to something or you don’t. Coaching isn’t just put out a few cones on training nights and dong a five minute chat on game day; it’s much more; but if you have a real passion for it, you find time!
You’ve been very accommodating in helping develop our juniors and your school holiday clinics have always been a highlight, is junior development important to you?
Very, as a former State and the National Training Centre Head Coach it’s all about development. It’s one of the reasons I am going to BPL where I am also the Technical Director for Under 14s up as well as the senior head coach. It’s about providing a pathway for them and keeping them in the game.
What is next for you?
I’ve probably answered that already…
What next for Bardon?
For that there are two answers: Bardon on the park are probably two or three players off pushing for promotion. Early this season we thought we may have secured those players but it wasn’t to be. If the club can secure the services of a couple more quality and dedicated players in “key positions” and keep the team as it is now, then maybe next year.
Off the park I love the work that is going on under the drive and leadership of Phil (Cowlishaw). The new facility, lights and a better pitch will help persuade players to come to Bardon.
However, as well as players you need committed coaches. My biggest must tip is that the club needs two coaches. You cannot continue with one coach trying to manage the whole of the Capital squad as I have the majority of the past two years. The times I did have Brummy, John and Adz helping made it so much easier and allowed us to work on team strengths and weaknesses, without that second coach it’s almost impossible!
Easier said than done I know but if any “older players” want to start their coaching careers, what better place than at Bardon under a new head coach with ever improving facilities! Whatever next though, I wish all Bardon players, families and committee the very best of luck on and off the park.