FOR Taylors Lake senior football coach Jye Smith, there is no hiding from the fact last year was tough.
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The side finished second bottom on the ladder with its only win coming against Pimpinio.
However, Smith is expecting a much improved product of football from his side this year.
“We lost so many players leading into the 2017 season, it was tough last year,” he said.
“Coming into the 2018 season we have only lost one player at this stage, which is a massive positive for the team.”
Building consistency in the squad will be almost as important as ensuring the youngsters continue to be exposed to senior football during the upcoming season.
“This year we will showcase our young players straight up from the under-17s,” Smith said.
“Ladder position won't be a concern for us – we have a very young side and are looking at developing our young players so they play with no fear and can play exciting football.”
It could be another tough year for Taylors Lake, but they are not interested in simply making up the numbers in the league.
“Our goal this year is to be more competitive during games, and be more consistent with our efforts,” Smith said.
With the inclusions of Mitch Burke, Brandon Scott and Alex Hill into the senior team as well as plenty of run from youngsters such as Reuben Macchia and Matt McCulloch, Taylors Lake could be set for a rise up the ladder this season.
“It is very exciting for the club and if we can keep these youngsters around for the next few years we could try and push back into finals,” Smith said.
Taylors Lake starts its season against Jeparit-Rainbow at home on April 7.
Q and A with Jye Smith
Who do you expect will step up this year?
Trae Martin is a player who will step up. He had a great year in 2017 and has been to most if not all of preseason and is looking fit, and plays consistent football. Jason Kannar is another who will surprise some clubs, has great leadership qualities and will lead by example this year.
How will your coaching style change this year?
This year we will be playing a more attacking style of football than last year. With the young team that we have, they’ll have a license to play bold and exciting football.
Where will improvement come from?
With the addition of new players to the club also comes better skills and a new energy around the playing group so look forward to the year and seeing how everyone steps up.