Tara Murray
Melton Thoroughbreds have the chance to build something special with their Big V men’s youth league division 2 side.
Despite having eight rookies in their side this season, the Thoroughbreds are on track to play finals.
The side currently sits fourth.
Coach Ian Neeves said the season had been an up and down one. Neeves is in his second year coaching the side, having been an assistant coach for the senior men’s team in 2020.
“We have lost some games we should have won easily,” he said.
“We get on a roll and then our consistency drops off. Considering this 2022 season our team of 14 players consists of eight rookies, they are still very much learning how the team works and how each individual’s skills knit together to work well within our team to put us on the winning track.”
Neeves said the group had come together really well, but as always knew there would be teething issues.
He said he had set high expectations for the side.
“The team plays as a team,” he said. “They have learnt that when we as a team need someone to step up and stand out to assist the team they do, and they do this very well.
“I think it’s important to note that if this team sticks together for a couple more seasons I have no doubt that they can bring home the championship.”
Neeves said while they have a lot of potential, they are focused on finishing this season on a high.
“Our aim moving forward is that the team continues playing at our best,” he said.
“We are currently sitting fourth on the ladder and if we can maintain and stay in that position we are finals driven.
“To further help the team along the new Cobblebank stadium is a breath of fresh air for the club. “Having a brand new high standard facility really makes a difference to all the teams at Melton and all teams are proud to call it our home.”
