Tara Murray
Craigieburn Eagles have put together a strong squad for the Big V women’s division 1 season and are hoping to add some key pieces before the season kicks off.
New coach Andrew Seidel said he was happy with the squad that he had put together, but like many other clubs was finding that players have stepped away from the game.
Neighbouring Whittlesea Pacers, who were to play in the same division, withdrew their team due to a lack of numbers.
“It’s been really good so far,” Seidel said.
“Speaking with other clubs, like us, they’re finding that players are doing something else and have other priorities.
“We’ve got seven players, but we’re looking for a couple more players to top up the squad.
“The club is in a good position, we’re just looking to finish off the roster.”
Four players from the Eagles squad from last season remain in Tahlia Prestia, Nicole Cameron, Jess Wain and Kristen McNamara.
Seidel has also added three players from his former clubs, Sunbury and Melton.
Ideally Seidel would have looked to give the youth league girls plenty of experience, but fixturing will prevent that.
“It’s a huge competition with something like 13 and eight double headers,” he said.
“Only six games don’t clash, so unfortunately we’re not able to use them.
“The youth league team will be strong, but they won’t get much opportunity to play with us.”
Seidel said that they weren’t putting too many expectations in place heading into the season.
“It’s my first year and we’re coming out of COVID,” he said. “We’re looking to build something in the next couple of years.
“We’ve got three youth league players aging out after this season and will come up to the women’s side.
“It’s a matter of building the next few years.”
Anyone interested in playing can contact Andrew on 0416 012 858
