Tara Murray
Mernda wasn’t sure how it would go in Northern Football League women’s division 2 this season.
After making the division 3 grand final last year, the Demons moved up to division 2 this season, with only two divisions.
Coach Gareth Duncan said the girls had really taken the new challenge in their stride.
“It’s been a big jump for the girls but they’ve handled it well,” he said.
“They were mixed in their reactions. It was half-half of some of them were unsure and the others were really keen for the challenge at the higher level.
“They are taking it pretty well.”
Duncan, who had been involved with the side last season before taking on the coaching role this year, said they had been really pleased with how the group had been going.
He said the main focus for the group wasn’t results, but the processes and making sure that they were enjoying the game which resulted in strong results.
Duncan said the girls were now starting to believe in themselves a bit more.
“I’m not surprised, as I knew the dedication and enthusiasm was always there,” he said.
“I think it surprised a few of them.”
The Demons sit on top after seven rounds, sitting on top of the ladder with a 6-1 record.
It follows on from a strong season last year.
Duncan said there was some motivation to build on last year.
“We unfortunately lost the grand final,” he said. “ We were the best team in division 3 last year but played our worst game in the grand final.
“There is a little bit of a fire in the belly to improve their football.”
Duncan said they had a really good group together and had an open door policy for anyone that wanted to play.
The Demons face Heidelberg on Sunday. The only time the teams have played each other was in a grading game last year, which the Tigers won.
Duncan said the group just wanted to continue to improve as the season progressed.
“It’s more about the processes and what we need to do to achieve things,” he said.
“It’s the coaches as well and the results will take care of themselves.”
