By Tara Murray
Melton Wolves Gridiron Club has pulled off a coaching coup, signing a coach that has played at the highest level.
In a first for the Wolves, they have looked overseas for a coach and they’ve found someone with extensive coaching and playing experience, Tony Simmons.
Simmons spent five years in the NFL, playing with the New England Patriots, the Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts and New York Giants.
He then played overseas, before turning to coaching. He has coached in America and at a number of clubs in Europe.
Wolves president Brad Baker said they were hoping the signing of Simmons would help bring some more players to the club.
“It’s pretty exciting for the club,” he said.
“To learn from someone who has played at the highest level is amazing.”
Baker said they needed a significant numbers boost for all three of their sides and were actively recruiting. As well as having a men’s side, the club has a women’s team and under-15 mixed team.
He said they had been active on social media trying to get the word out and were hoping the signing of Simmons would help.
“A lot of people didn’t know that there was a team in Melton, let alone a competition in Victoria.
“Most people who have been in touch didn’t have any idea. We need to get some new players for all three teams.
“The numbers at training are growing each week, but we’re still looking for players.”
Baker said they had lost some players from the past season, with a number they had picked up at the last minute returning to their former clubs.
With the Gridiron Victoria season due to start later than usual, Baker said they were hoping to attract players who might be playing other winter sports.
This year’s season is due to start in the middle of August and run until the second weekend in December.
He said anyone of any ability was welcome to come down to the club.
After finishing runners-up in division 2 in 2017, the Wolves men’s side faced tougher opposition last season with the competition going to one division.
Baker said it was a good challenge for the side. “It was a bit of a step up, but if you want to improve you have to play in a better competition.”
Their women’s and under-15 teams both played in six team competitions.
All three Melton Wolves sides train on Monday and Wednesday nights at Mt Carberry Reserve, Melton South, from 6.30pm onwards.
For more details ow.ly/zTxD50uzON2 or email meltonwolves@gmail.com.
