Last season was about surviving for Tullamarine in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Steve McNamara Shield, but this season is about thriving.
After a tough season which saw the Demons only just avoid relegation, it has been a big off season for the club.
President Peter Laddad said it had been a really good off season and they were excited for what’s to come.
“It’s been a big off season and we’re pretty stoked,” he said. “We were able to stay up and we’ve got the kids coming through.
“It will be the first time we’ve had a full complement of junior teams, 16s, 14s, 12s and 10s as well.
“Our juniors are looking strong again. Hopefully we’ll get some runs on the board.
Labbad will continue on as captain of the first XI, but has stepped down as coach.
Devin Ratnasinghe will coach the side and play a key role in the first XI.
Laddad said Ratnasinghe had been really good in the season working in the playing group.
Labbad said they had signed a number of new and returning players they were hoping would play big roles.
“Shehan Wedikkara De Silva returns to the club after three seasons in premier division.
“He is a left arm spinner and he’s going to be a key for the first XI.
“David Scott, who has been captain-coach, is back at the club and is a big one for us.
“Danny Law has signed on again. He didn’t play the last seven games last season. He is going to finish his career at Tullamarine.
Johanne De Zilva has also joined the club from Sri Lanka and is a top order bat and middle-fast pace bowler.
Labbad said they would again have a number of younger players playing senior cricket and were keen to see some under-16s in the first XI side.
Off field, things are starting to fall into place for the Demons as well.
After not having rooms for a couple of years, the club will have them for the whole summer season.
“It has helped us financially,” he said. The cricket club is thriving and best it has been in years.
“Eighteen months ago we thought we were coming back.
“We’ve now got the kids and a few players back to the club.
“The club is healthy and it’s all really positive. We want to make finals this year.”
