Bacchus Marsh is hoping for another successful season in the AFL Goldfields’ women’s competition.
The Cobras had a stunning season in the first year of the competition, making it through to the division 2 grand final.
Despite falling short at the final hurdle, the Cobras were impressed with their progress throughout the season.
Team manager Rod Bertram said they were planning another outstanding year.
“Hopefully this will be a successful season, whether it is as successful as last season that is yet to be seen,” he said.
“We’re going quite well and it’s looking promising.
“We would love to go one better.”
Bertram said they had lost a few players, but at the same time picked up some players.
He hoped as the playing group developed throughout the season they would put together some strong football.
In a bonus for the side, Abbey Bertram and Emily Crawford will play for the Cobras full-time after being part of Geelong’s VFL side last season.
Bertram said the two would bring back some experience, having played and trained with the VFL squad.
Meanwhile, Elise Korteman and Jacinta Reid will get their chance at the higher level, after they were selected in Collingwood and Williamstown’s VFL squads respectively.
Ben Hicks, who was an assistant coach last season, has taken on the head coaching role, replacing Hayley Gossow, who is involved with Collingwood’s VFL team.
The AFL Goldfields’ competition will be one division this season.
Bertram said Redan, which finished runners-up in division 1 last season, would be the favourites.
The start to the season doesn’t get much bigger for the Cobras, as they host cross-town rivals Darley on April 22.
It will be the Devils’ first women’s game.
Bertram said they couldn’t wait to take to the field in that game.
“All the senior teams [men’s and women’s] will be playing Darley on that weekend,” he said.
“We wanted to play the same day as the men and were hoping to have lights in time, but they weren’t done.
“It will be a big weekend. From a senior’s point of view it doesn’t get much bigger.”
Bertram said they were always after new players.
Prospective players were welcome to attend training or get in contact with the club.
“We won’t turn away anyone.”
The Cobras will also field under-13 and youth league girls sides. Both teams will also start their seasons against Darley on the weekend of April 21.
Melton Centrals women’s side will start their season against Lake Wendouree.
Tara Murray
