GREATER Western Victoria Rebels mentor Gerard Fitzgerald wants the club’s strong on-field culture to translate to his players off the field.
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The Rebels closed the TAC Cup season with an encouraging 12.11 (83) to 8.8 (56) triumph over Bendigo Pioneers.
Fitzgerald said he was proud of the young side’s mental strength and willingness to improve thoughout the season in trying circumstances.
“They didn’t at all taper off, even when we couldn’t make finals,” he said.
“As a coach, you want to teach young players and developing people about wanting to get better with lots of hard work. When you’ve been involved in coaching for a long time you see football as a vehicle for learnings in life.
“We’re proud as our boys just continued until the final siren.”
Hamilton Kangaroos’ Lachy Dawson was among the best of the south-west contingent in the Rebels’ victory, amassing 25 disposals.
Terang Mortlake’s Scott Carlin was also lively, pulling 19 possessions.
Fitzgerald said his side came out on top in a number of areas across the ground.
“Winning the toss and kicking with the wind was great, and we certainly made good use of it,” he said.
“We also won the inside 50 and the possession count.