MOYSTON/Willaura president Cheryle Stapleton is thrilled with the direction her club is taking following the appointment of Matt Burmeister as senior coach.
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After missing out on defending its 2014 Mininera and District Football League flag, the club is preparing for what Ms Stapleton hopes to be a very exciting 2016 season.
“We were extremely fortunate to receive over four applications for the senior position, which to me indicates that other people can see the potential of our playing group and it was a hotly contested position,” Ms Stapleton said.
“Last year’s coach, Jacob Hamilton, did not seek reappointment as his role within the family business increases. Whether playing or not, we hope Jacob, Sarah and Isabella continue to be an integral part of our family club.”
Following the interview process over a number of weeks by a panel made up of Moyston/Willaura club executives and a number of senior players, Matt Burmeister was announced as Pumas’ senior coach for 2016 with Rhys Cronin as assistant coach. Josh Bywater received the captaincy and Luke Thomas was named vice captain.
Ms Stapleton said the vibe around the club since Matt's appointments has been terrific.
Matt is a true professional who has a holistic approach for the playing group, involving both juniors and seniors. His sporting career kicked off with being selected to be part of the Melbourne Football Club junior development program. However, it was his running skills that catapulted him to making the Australian Athletic Team at 17 years of age, breaking many records in 400 metres, some of which he still holds today.
Matt received a bronze medal at the under 21 World Championships, attended the Australian Institute of Sport but unfortunately due to injury missed the Barcelona Games. He received a full four year scholarship in the United States, and was heavily involved in coaching and sports psychology of the track and field athletes, which has provided him with the tools to take on the Pumas’ top job.
Matt has a long association with the Moyston/Willaura Football Netball Club, having moved to the area to live at Mt William with his wife Sybil and has raised three children.
Scarlet plays netball with the under 13s, as well as Floyd and Sinclair who both play under 12 football - with Matt also coaching the Pumas’ Cubs development squad.
“Anyone who has heard Matt speak, will know why there is a buzz around the club. He is passionate, extremely inspiring and motivating, he has taken on the role with gusto in preparation for the upcoming season,” Ms Stapleton said.
Rhys Cronin has accepted the role of assistant coach and Ms Stapleton has no doubt Matt will be a magnificent mentor to him, who, along with Josh, Luke and the leadership group, will provide support across the many facets of the team.
Brad Jackson and Glenn Keilar have been appointed joint reserves coaches, both bringing a wealth of experience. The pair are current players and will provide leadership both on and off the field.
John Vanderwaal and Simon Orszaczki return as coaches for the under 16.5s. They will be looking to go one better in 2016 and bring home that elusive premiership cup.
“We have an extremely successful club, having been fortunate to be able to field all ten teams with our footballers and netballers across all grades supporting each other on the sidelines to bring out their best,” Ms Stapleton said.
“Whilst looking forward to the Christmas break, I'm also extremely excited about the season ahead.”