By Tara Murray
Greenvale Kangaroos have looked to experience for its next Victorian Premier Cricket coach, appointing former New South Wales first class coach Trent Johnston as coach for next season.
Johnston, who was involved at the Kangaroos as director of coaching in the recently finished season, takes over the role from Matthew Love.
Kangaroos’ director of cricket Peter Di Venuto said Love wouldn’t be returning this season, with his wife accepting a work opportunity in Camperdown.
Di Venuto said it was an exciting time for the Kangaroos following the announcement of Johnston as coach.
Johnston coached New South Wales for three years, having previously played 97 Internationals for Ireland.
“The club is delighted and the people around the club are delighted as well,” Di Venuto said.
“He’s been a pathway coach and the coach of New South Wales.
“It’s not often you have a premier club, with a first class coach in charge of it.
“It’s a great opportunity for all the young cricketers in the area. The upside is enormous and we’re looking forward to what we are doing.”
Di Venuto said having had 12 months at the club before stepping into the role would be beneficial for Johnston. It will also be Di Venuto’s second season at the club.
“It’s given him the ability to look at the environment as well,” he said.
“To see what potential the club has. We have unbelievebale training faciltieis, which are probably the best in the competition.
“There’s a remarkable committee that works hard, it’s a great environment. There’s plenty of opportunities for young cricketers.”
Di Venuto said they had been speaking to possible recruits for a number of months, even before Johnston’s appointment.
He said there was a big need to add some experience into the club, in all the grades.
The Kangaroos first XI finished the 2018-19 season in 17th spot, having finished bottom the three seasons before that.
Di Venuto said they would be smart with how they recruited.
“There was massive improvement this year,” he said.
“We were more competitive, but it didn’t translate into results. We lacked the knowledge to win in those moments.
“We need some players who know what to do in those situations. We want to surround the up and coming players with experienced players.
“We need support throughout the grades.”
Di Venuto said they were looking to put together a strong coaching panel, with some more announcements in the coming weeks.
