There’s been a change of leadership for Greenvale Kangaroos’ Victorian Turf Cricket Association program, but the expectations haven’t changed.
Coming off two straight senior division grand final first XI losses, the Kangaroos have been one of the more consistent teams in the competition.
New senior coach Warren Bonello is hoping that continues this season.
He’s expecting the side would again be competitive and in the hunt for finals.
Bonello steps up to the role after a long association with the club, on and off field.
“I’ve been involved with the club for roughly 15 to 16 years,” he said. “I just thought I wanted to put something back into the club. I said I was willing to help out coaching.
“I haven’t coached since leaving Glenroy. I’ve captained a lot of sides over the years.”
Bonello said they had tweaked a few things in the off season in the hope that they can go a step further and win the premiership.
He’s hoping that might be the difference.
“We’ve been successful without going all the way,” he said. He said one big focus they had this year was to look within and promote some younger players.
He said while they had spoken to some players about joining the club, it wasn’t a priority. “To be honest, we’re more focused on blooding younger local players.
“We want to develop from within.”
Bonello said they had kept most of the senior side together, but there was a couple of big losses. Tarek Moughanie, who previously coached the side, has left and is now coaching Westmeadows.
Gun all-rounder Chinthaka Jayasinghe, who was the side’s best in their grand final loss to Yarraville Club, has joined him at the Warriors.
All-rounder Tallan Wright has taken over as skipper, replacing Jon Kent.
Kent, who was captain-coach last season, will continue to play this season.
The Kangaroos kick off their season on October 7 in a one-day match against Tullamarine.
Players interested in lining up for the Kangaroos, email wbonello@stoddart.com.au
