It was only a matter of time before Sergio Lunderi ended up coaching at Melton Phoenix in the FV state league 4 west competition.
The Phoenix announced that Lunderi would coach the side next season, crossing from Newport Storm, which he guided to the state league 5 west title this year.
He had also coached at Truganina Hornets, where he was also president of that club.
While he was elsewhere, Lunderi had a soft spot for the Phoenix.
“It’s exciting and it was always going to happen sooner or later that I coached Melton,” he said.
“I moved to Melton three years ago.. When I was at Truganina and Balmoral I had massive respect for them.
“I got along with the people.”
Lunderi said the timing was right for him to cross to Melton and he was keen to help it take the next step.
The Phoenix has been in the promotion conversation for a couple of years before just falling short, with only one team being promoted.
This year the Phoenix finished in third spot, five points of top and promotion.
“The plan is to be at the top of the league or as close to it,” Lunderi said. “That is the target.
“It’s very close in state league 4. Since Michelle [Williamson] took over as president they’ve impressed in a lot of ways.
“There was something missing and I’m hoping I’m the bit that was missing. I bring experience and knowledge to the club.”
The Phoenix will remain in state league 4 next season but will play in a north-west competition, after Football Victoria restructured the league.
Lunderi said with the restructure it would be even more challenging but they were keen to succeed.
He said the club was itching to play at a higher level and further test itself.
Lunderi said there’s some players that would likely follow him across to the club as they look to strengthen the list.
“We need a bit more depth,” he said. “It’s not an 11 man job but you need 18 to 20 players and reserve players of a certain level that can step up.
“Having a senior squad is going to be the only way you get promoted. You get injuries, suspensions and people not feeling it performance wise.
“You have to have that level of depth or you are going to struggle.”
Lunderi said the club’s young playing group was also exciting and he was keen to see more players progress through the ranks.
Khaled Filli and Quirino Moretti have been named assistant coaches.
