Sporting Whittlesea is looking to continue the development that saw it become the best defensive side in FFV’s state league 2 north-west last season.
After winning seven of its first nine matches, Whittlesea was hit with injuries and faded to finish fifth.
Despite the late losses, Sporting still conceded the fewest goals in its division.
Club coach Kevin Theuma says pre-season training is well under way with plenty of practice matches lined up.
“We’ve retained most of the players and have quite a few younger boys coming into the club,” Theuma said.
“We had our first trial game last weekend and we’ll have practice matches just about every week until the season starts. We got quite a few injuries last year so we’ve changed our pre-season to try to prevent that. Our best 11 would put us in the top two or three sides in the division.”
Theuma said Sporting was certain the new players could cover those who left in the off-season.
But the final squad had not been decided, and form in trial matches would continue to be important.
The club is still looking at bringing in players from higher divisions as well as at least one from overseas, although Theuma is most excited about the number of youngsters wanting to sign up.
“Some of the kids went to National Premier League clubs and have now come to us,” he said.
“They’ve heard good things about us and want to be part of it. We want to help them develop for another two or three years so they can go back to the higher level and succeed.”
The coach said these extra players would add depth to the squad, with several of the reserves side capable of playing seniors.
“Our second side is more a development side with players between 18 and 21.
“Most have the potential to come up and push for spots.”
As well as finishing in the top two or three of state league 2 north-west, Sporting is looking to the nationwide FFA Cup.
“It starts in a couple of weeks and we’re hoping for a good run, to get as far as playing an NPL side,” Theuma said.
Sporting Whittlesea kicks off its regular season against Hoppers Crossing on April 2.
