From the Weekly Times
COUNTRY Victoria's youngest senior football club is no longer just making up the numbers, says co-coach Darryl Wilson. After bowing out of last year's Bendigo Football League flag race in the preliminary final, Wilson said Strathfieldsaye Football Club was serious about staying at the top this season. "It is not just about being here for us any more, it's about taking the next step," Wilson said.
"We want to have a go at winning it."
The Storm, established in 2009, is one of a host of teams shaping up as serious contenders in this year's competition.
Wilson, the off-field coach, who will this year join forces with playing coach Wayne Schultz, acknowledged the Bendigo league would be tight again this year.
"Most clubs have upped the ante in regards to recruiting and targeting players that they need, so it is going to be a tough year," he said.
"Golden Square will definitely still be in and around (finals), Gisborne and Sandhurst will be at the top again and Eaglehawk have recruited really well."
Strathfieldsaye has improved its list with the recruitment of midfielder Shaun Everington, a two-time league medallist in the Alberton Football League.
The Storm has also welcomed defender Victor Caristo, from the Irymple Football Club in the Sunraysia league.
Shannon Geary will again captain the club, but one of the biggest inclusions will be a fit Sam Mildren, who managed 57 goals before being struck down by injury last year.
Golden Square narrowly defeated Gisborne in last year's Bendigo grand final and both teams have new senior coaches in 2013.
Hawthorn premiership player Rick Ladson will return to his junior club as playing coach of Golden Square and Gisborne's assistant coach of the past two years, Kevin Fitzgerald, will take over from Luke Saunders.
The Bendigo league kicks off when Golden Square and Kangaroo Flat do battle on Good Friday.
