New Bundoora women’s coach Ian Cole has a passion for coaching and for the Northern Football League club.
A life member at the club, he has been involved with helping out the women’s side the last couple of years.
So when the coaching job became available, he put his hand up for it.
“It’s very exciting,” she said.
“I’ve been coaching with the AusKick elite program for 34 years. I’ve taught a number of girls I thought were pretty good at football but didn’t have the opportunities.
“I said when the club was looking for someone, if they couldn’t find anyone from a higher level I would be happy to coach.
“They are a terrific bunch of girls and it’s a real honour and privilege to coach them.”
Cole, who has won numerous coaching awards, said the key was to get the basics right and then build from there.
He said the time was right for the women’s game to go to the next level.
“I just need to help the girls build up skills and work on set plays rather than going out and having a kick,” he said.
“The girls didn’t have the opportunity to play properly growing up. It’s about teaching them the skills and teaching them how not to get hurt.”
Cole said the club was still looking for more players to join the side. With no junior sides, they don’t have the younger players coming through like other clubs.
“The minimum age is 16 and if they want to come and play for us, they’re welcome,” he said.
“We’ll give them a start and teach them the skills. We want young girls to come to the club and feel welcome.
“I love teaching football and I’m happy to do extra sessions.”
Cole said they were still unsure what grade they would be in, with grading to happen at the start of the season.
The team resumes pre-season training on January 31.
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