EXPECT a new, fresh and positive East Warrnambool netball outfit this season, says new coach Aimee Drew.
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Drew said she was optimistic about the Warrnambool and District season ahead, with new faces on and off the court and a fresh approach to the coaching structure.
She was unveiled as the Bombers’ new coach — along with new A reserve coach Emily Sherman and new B grade and 17 and unders coach Brooke Williams — and is looking to take the club in a new direction while building on the legacy left by previous coaches Dee Jaynes and Katie Ryan.
“The three of us are going to work together with a senior netball group rather than focusing on individual teams,” Drew said.
“There have been a lot of departures and there are a lot of new faces both on the court and off, but I’m positive and optimistic about the season ahead.
“I’m excited, it’s going to be a challenge but one I’m really looking forward to.”
The Warrnambool local has spent the majority of her netball career at South Rovers, where she also coached juniors.
After moving to Perth she returned to the south-west and played at Warrnambool last year, but her season was marred by injury.
Two knee reconstructions will keep her from taking to the court with the Bombers until at least June.
New mum Williams is also new to the Bombers and has spent time at South Rovers and Dennington. This season will be her first foray into coaching.
Sherman has been with the Bombers for the past six years and steps into the A reserve coaching role after overseeing the Bombers’ B grade team last year.
Drew said off-season departures meant the club was still in a rebuilding phase and admitted that recruiting had probably been left too late.
She said the Bombers had picked up Abbie Sheridan from the Hamilton Kangaroos and was hoping Andrea Austin could have another good year with the Bombers.
“We will really be looking at developing some of those A reserve players across the season,” Drew said.
“We have a lot of new faces on the court and we know that it may not be our best year.
“But we are optimistic and I think that’s really important.”
Williams said the club was still looking for 17 and under players and would be keen to hear from any senior grade players who might be interested in game time.
“It might be people that have had a couple of years away and are looking to start playing again,” Williams said.
Sherman said 17 and under training was from 4.30pm on Wednesdays, while senior training was on Mondays between 6pm and 7pm and from 5.30pm on Wednesdays.
jwoolley@fairfaxmedia.com.au