Michaela Meade
Melbourne’s COVID-19 lockdown spelling a quicker end to the Tullamarine’s Essendon District Football League season was “inevitable”, says co-coach David Connell.
The EDFL announced earlier this month that it would award premierships, without finals going ahead amidst restrictions.
The Demons missed out on the trophy for division 1, finishing up second on the ladder with 36 points.
East Keilor claimed the top spot and the gong, sitting in first place with 44 points.
Tullamarine had won nine games throughout the season, and lost three.
Connell said the EDFL’s decision was tough but fair.
“We’re all disappointed that we didn’t get the opportunity, but it had gotten to a point where we all felt that it was inevitable,” he said.
“Asking the guys to make the same commitment that they have throughout lockdowns with virtual training and everything, that’s mentally draining for everyone.
“We would’ve loved to have played, but when there’s a big break across a lockdown, it’s not the most realistic thing.
“We’re a blue collar club, so we’ve got lots of tradies and things.
“When it gets to the point that it did, the guys just wanted to move on.
“With things how they are, they had bigger worries.
“It is what it is.
“The control was out of our hands, but now we can all take a breath, freshen up, and hopefully look at the future with some optimism.”
Connell said lockdown had been challenging for all players and staff at the club.
“In terms of engagement with the playing group, you could see each lockdown wearing down on everyone,” Connell said.
“We’re a tight-knit group as well, so … not only have we missed football, but we missed the social aspect, especially on the back of last year.
“With a bit of luck … we’re all hoping we’re past the worst of this and that 2022 goes off without a hitch.
“The majority of the group have re-signed, so we’re confident that we’ll launch into the new season strong.”
Connell said he and co-coach Ben Chapman had been happy with the team’s performance throughout the stopping and starting of the season.
Connell said there were four players who stood out throughout.
“Steve Vocale, he really established himself as a really strong player and asset,” he said.
“Anthony Liberatore – it was his best season so far at Tullamarine. He was able to focus just on Tullamarine and really put his all into it.
“In terms of younger players, Alessio Gobbo is a player who’s been in development over four years with us. He’s fighting heavily in the best and fairest [considerations].
“Cooper Perry only came to us this year. He’s come in and won our goal kicking.
“Both Gobbo and Perry have really surprised people.”
Connell said that with a $1.9 million upgrade to club facilities on the way, and a majority of the team re-signing for the 2022 season, there was one obvious goal.
“We’re absolutely not afraid to hide it, we’ll be gunning for the premiership next year,” he said
“Anything less than a premiership will be disappointing after all the work we’ve all put in.”
