Dear Members
Welcome to the 2024 season as we embark on what is promising to be another positive year for our club as we grow, develop, and continue our journey as a respected and competitive force within the WGFNC.
In my first letter to you as president, I just want to say what an honor it is to be trusted to lead such a great club and can assure you that our committee and I will do our very best to maintain the energy and commitment shown by all of those that have come before us.
Before providing an update on our preparations for the 2024 season, it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the outstanding service of some long-standing members of the club who completed their tenure in their respective roles at the end of the 2023 season.
Outgoing President Lee Jones, Senior Coach Lachie Gillespie, Vice President Greg Bethune and 2023 Best Clubman Chris Webb have all contributed significantly to the incredible amount of work that has found the club in the position we are in today. On behalf of the club, I again say thank you and am pleased to confirm that while they will not be fulfilling the roles they had last year, they will all continue to be around the club and supporting us as we move forward.
Onto 2024 and what an exciting time to be a Seagull!
Senior coach Jordan Kelly and his team have been working hard on building the list and defining our game plan which includes the addition of Matt Buntine, Harry Lang and Luke Sheppard as well as the return of our 2017 Best and Fairest Nick Lang. Added to this is the injection of many of our 2023 Under 18 finalists who move into the Senior and Development ranks this year providing us with a strong pathway into the next era.
Our focus is centered on developing our young group and laying the foundations that will see us remain a force in 2024 and for years to come. We have some enormous emerging talent which under the guidance of our dedicated coaching team and experienced players, will only go from strength to strength.
That said we are also firmly focused on success in 2024 and strongly believe we have a list capable of delivering outstanding results.
Our committee and the coaching groups from all levels met in November where we discussed our values, objectives, and expectations for 2024. With a great mix of talent, knowledge and experience it was an ideal opportunity to set the tone for the year ahead and into the future. It was a very positive session which has really mobilised the club for the year ahead.
No club thrives without committed members, volunteers, and supporters and so often, we are complimented by opposition clubs on the energy and commitment of our supporter base. This is certainly something we as a club should be incredibly proud of and goes a long way in creating the environment for success.
Energy is contagious so please continue to bring as much as you can in 2024!
Please keep an eye out for information about upcoming practice matches and events, in particular our Season Launch and Family Day for the entire club on Sunday March 24th at the ground.
Thank you again for your support and I look forward to catching up with you throughout the year.
Go Seagulls!!!
Tony Riley
President