In introducing his personal tone to the role, Morris says he doesn’t ‘‘buy into the notion of setting goals’’ based on a simple win-loss record.
And it seems his team is on the same page, with many of it hungry for personal improvement, as well as success.
‘‘We talk a lot about matching high standards with high enjoyment and want to approach each training session and game with a willingness to compete, whilst still maintaining a strong culture of fun and connection,’’ Morris said.
But that doesn’t stop the men in blue and gold taking it seriously.
Mainstays John Anstee, Todd Gallagher, Blair Whelan, Clay and Nick Howe, Jayden Pitts, Ricky Gittens and Bryce Scoullar are some of the familiar faces returning to the senior side.
And while this combination deals opponents a punishing blow in the midfield, the Rams will need to shore up their forward line to put scores on the board.
‘‘We have recruited and planned training with intentions to increase our capacity to create scoring opportunities,’’ Morris said.
‘‘With a focus on ball movement, to compete with the best we need to be able to hit the scoreboard, whilst still being a solid defensive unit.’’
Along with skills development, Morris hopes recruits Reid Crowe, Angus McKay and Angus Durnan will strengthen the on-field structure.
Standing at 201cm McKay is a former South Fremantle Colt.
He comes to Deniliquin from Newtown Chilwell Football Club and Geelong VFL, but an ACL injury ended those playing hopes early and with rehabilitation he hopes for a stable season as a Ram.
Crowe, a ‘‘classy, goal-kicking midfielder’’ is a Shepparton United best-and-fairest winner, and comes to the Rams from Kyabram in Goulburn Valley League.
Durnan joins the Rams as a former Wagga Tigers premiership player.
Key defender Anstee will captain the side after a slow 2021 season due to a broken foot, with support from vice-captain Lachie MacDonald and leadership group members Matt MacDonald and Jake McManus.
The Rams finished seventh on the Murray Football League ladder last season.
They will play Barooga at home in round one.
