St Anthonys is hoping increased depth will be the catalyst for its return to the top of Gisborne District Cricket Association ranks.
The club fell short of its on-field goal last year after being knocked out of the B-grade competition in the semi-finals.
But there was no rest in the off-season with the club working hard to ensure it will be better placed to attack the coming summer months.
St Anthonys president Lucas Alaimo has already seen the positive impact new recruits are having on the squad.
He says training standards and overall commitment throughout the pre-season are the best he’s seen.
“We had 26 people turn up to the first pre-season training session and I think that was a really good show of support to the coach and the committee.
“When there’s less depth coming from the seconds and thirds, it’s very hard to bring people into the first grade if they aren’t performing.
“To start the season, we will have at least half a dozen players, who are good enough to be playing first grade, playing in the second grade. That’s going to provide some really good competition for spots.”
In good news for St Anthonys, head coach Jamie Bolger will return to the club this season.
Bolger took over the top job in 2014.
The 2015-16 season is also bringing a change of scenery for St Anthonys, with the club moving to a new base at Arnolds Creek.
Alaimo says the move will allow it to build strong bonds with other sports clubs in the area and cater for more members.
“I think it’s a big positive for us to move to a new area of Melton, particularly a growing area like Arnolds Creek,” he said. “The idea of having two ovals to use and being in a new facility gives us the chance to work closely with Melton Centrals Football and Netball Club.
“We only had one junior side last year and we may possibly have four this year. That’s a big step for the club.”
Building on its positive off-season, Alaimo says the next step for the club needs to be contending for a premiership.
St Anthonys was knocked out of the finals race last season by eventual premiers Diggers Rest Bulla.
“When we set out, making a grand final and winning the premiership is always our goal, and that’s no different this year.”
The GDCA season will start next month.
