Coachy's 2007 Season In Review

Hi everyone,

Season 2007 was potentially going to be a challenging year for the Bullets on the field. After a successful 2006, which produced six wins plus finishing fifth on the ladder out of ten sides, with only the amateur teams above us, we were looking to improve on that or equal it. As we look back over this season, we came up against teams that had clearly gone out and recruited people to improve their sides, teams that we had beaten in the past were now defeating us, some of them by large margins. We won three games in a row, Rounds 2-4, which was terrific, but our losses, (except the one by nine points), were heavy.

We lost the services of two players from '06 at the start of the season. Dani Mijic and Maree Fewster both through other commitments, while Deb Murray and Dave Beattie were only available for limited matches through fitness concerns. All four gave fantastic service in '06 and we missed them. On the up side though, the Bullets unearthed and witnessed the improvement of players that had very good years for us. The significant improvement of Rob Hazell and Narelle Jones was great to see and Ruth Hannan's four matches were sensational.

When it looked like our year had slipped away by Round 7, we decided we'd mix things up and play our players in different positions for the last three weeks. In our last match for the season, against a very good side in Dumbalk, Dean played in the centre with Narelle, Rob H went forward and Luke played back for the first time. It worked well, we were competitive - only four points down into the last half, Ruth kicking four goals and Dave scoring two. That week was pleasing, knowing depending on the week, our players can be competitive in other roles. Throw in Andrew, Elodie, Deb, Rob Rizzo and maybe another recruit, we can head back up the ladder.

There's no doubt everyone ran, tried hard and competed this year, players like Luke and Andrew were consistent, as was Narelle's second half of the year and we had very good contributions from Dave and Elodie. Our challenge now is can we get better and continue to enjoy this ten week sport - I think we can.

Thanks again for everyone's support this year, to all our One Gamer's coming on board - and to our Ticket Holder, Dan Vitale, we want to see you more next season!

Coachy's Player Report Cards

Andrew Merryweather
With 26 goals to his name, he had a good year. Beautiful kick for goal, he was at times, a lone hand up forward. Pressure went on to him late in year with the team struggling and the improvement of opposition defences - but held his own. Always a presence, has proven he can play anywhere and may try that next year.

Dave Beattie
 Just played the two games due to fitness concerns, but they were two very good games, the first one outstanding. Asked to play forward, he took marks, kicked three goals and competed hard. Always gives 100%.

Dean Jones
Struggled for touch at times, but so did the team. As passionate as ever, often tried to help the team with running bursts with the footy. Just the seven goals this year, he played in defence a number of times this season. Started in the centre in last game, where he set up teammates and used the ball well. He will look forward to next year.

Debbie Murray
Played two matches and broke down injured early in the second game. Did well in her first game, displaying her usual run. Should be back next season.

Elodie O'Connor
Very impressive for someone who couldn't be involved every week. Competed well in midfield and defence. Could be a very good player, won votes in two of her three games.

Luke Barisic
Battled hard in difficult year for the team. Again full of run, strong hands and consistently very good. Combined well with various midfield teammates and at one stage had to compete on his own! Survived a stint in defence by working his way back into the game by playing in front. Will be better for that experience. Another who is looking forward to next year.

Narelle Jones
Good, consistent year, especially in second half of season. Played midfield and back. Ran hard and put pressure on opponents every week. Teamed up with Dean in midfield in final week and played her best game for the club. Voted well in last half of season, in what was probably her best season. Should go into next year with confidence.

Robert Hazell
Massive improver in 2007. Good, strong mark and beautiful kick. Some passes to teammates were magnificent. Reliable and consistent performer down back and the same when up forward. Showed leadership and encouragement to teammates. Player who used football smarts to win and use the footy. Got himself fit and played every game - could get even better next year.

Robert Rizzo
Another who played just the two games. Not as fit as last year but was lively in his two appearances. Played both ends of the ground and won his fair share of the ball.

Ruth Hannan
Burst on to the scene for probably the wrong reasons in her eventful first game. Took marks, got ko'd twice and kicked two goals in a match we were happy she walked off in. Player with natural skills and superb mark. Very accurate kick for goal, taking her marks on a strong lead or overhead. Took very gutsy mark in final week of season.

Daniel Vitale
Only saw two games this year, the first and last, we were glad he was there and hope he can see more of the Bullets in '08.

Thanks to our one-gamers in 2007: Tina Randall, Emma Campbell and Carla Ralph.