By Tara Murray
After a rocky beginning, Melton fielded a women’s football side for the first time on Sunday.
The Bloods struggled for numbers early on in the pre-season but that was all put behind them on Sunday as they took to the field against Gisborne in the AFL Goldfields Women’s competition
The more experienced Gisborne line-up came out on top, winning 11.15 (81)-0.0 (0).
Bloods coach Beau Beck said all the players were excited about taking to the field.
“It was a rough start with numbers, but they have come along nicely,” he said.
“We’ve got 22 players which is pretty healthy from where we came from.
“Some of the netballers have joined and helped with numbers.”
Beck said anyone who wanted to join the club, was welcome to play.
He said one of the pleasing things about the side was seeing some players who were juniors at the club, returning to come and play with the Bloods.
Beck, who was instrumental in setting up the side, had not planned on coaching the women’s side.
Now that he has, he is excited by how it’s gone.
“It wasn’t the plan at all,” he said. “I’m part of the senior football club with the men’s, so my Saturdays are taken up.
“Now my Sundays are taken up … I had to run it by the wife.
“Now we’re under way, I’m happy to do the job.”
Beck said it was different being involved with female footy compared to the men’s. He said the women wanted more information about what they were doing.
With a new side, Beck said the biggest thing this season was about learning the game and having some fun along the way.
“It’s about teaching the girls and getting them familiar with the demands of football,” he said.
“We have a lot of inexperienced players.
“It’s about learning the positions and the game and then worry about getting some wins.”
In other results, Bacchus Marsh defeated Darley in the local derby, 6.3 (39)-1.8 (14). Cobras captain Abbey Bertram took home the best on ground.
Melton Centrals also had a good win to start the season, beating Lake Wendouree, 12.19 (91)-3.2 (20).
