Wanderers still recruiting as comp begins

Coach Mark Plant said while player numbers are fewer than they would like, the quality shown at training is promising ahead of the season.

“Training’s been good. It’s a bit of a later start to the season, so the numbers are getting there and we would love a few more, probably like every other club in town.

“But we’ve got a couple of young blokes, as well as a few players returning to the club this year, so it should be a good year.“

Plant has named two young players to keep an eye on this year.

“Hamish Baker has joined us for his first year (at this level of competition) and had a cracker training this preseason, so a big year is ahead for him.

“Masen Brain had his first senior year with us last year, which was really good. We’re expecting huge things from his talent.”

The Wanderers have a good system for newer players to come through, Plant said.

He said the club is in a period of “renewal”.

“We’ve played in finals and recently played in back-to-back grand finals.

“We’re not expecting that much this year as there has been some changeover at the club, but we’re hoping to build through the young players with some good old players in place.

“As the old legs tire out, hopefully, the young players will come through and perform well for us.” Plant said.

The head coach reiterated that the club is always open for people interested in the round ball game.

“We are always looking for more players. Even if people are just there for the training and not to play games, more people at training allows us to try more drills and get some match practice going.”

Plant said while plans to field a women’s competition side did not eventuate this year, female players are still welcome to join trainings.

“Any women who are interested in soccer should come down.

“Training is on Thursday nights at 6.30pm at Rotary Park.”

The Bendigo Amateur Soccer League runs for 14 weeks, with finals expected to be held in late August.