DESPITE a delayed start to the year, due to the wet, the Culburra Dolphins look set for a big season in 2017.
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They’ve had plenty of new players of all ages join the club, while new committee members are helping the club grow and bring positive ideas and changes.
“It is going to be a year of firsts for the Dolphins with our new under 6s side and 16s girls league tag,” club president Peter Feast said.
“There has been plenty of interest for next year, with the possibility of a 10s and 12s GLT – the amount of interest in the girls’ team is great, and we hope to be able to support their footy goals.
“As a whole, I always like to say that playing a great game every week is the goal, making a grand final is a bonus, and winning one is a real treat.”
Unfortunately the club won’t be fielding a women’s league tag or under 18s team this year – which will see Chris (Bat) Quinlan, not coaching a side for the first time in 42 years.
But Feast is excited for the chances of their other sides.
“Missing the semi-finals last year really motivated the under 16s to train hard for the 2017 season,” Feast said.
“With some familiar faces and a few new recruits, I think this side is definitely one to watch.
“Our 15s are looking good as well, under the new coach Kev Waters, as are the under 13s – the feedback from both sides has been outstanding.”
The buzz at the club this year Feast credits largely to the success of the third grade side, who created Group 7 history last year by winning the premiership in their first year.
“Their success really brought the whole community together,” he said.
“They were a great group of guys, professional and respectful when representing the Dolphins throughout the season.
“Looking ahead to this year, we have lost 13 of last year’s squad but still have 25 signed up this year, including recruits James Hall, Tristan Reid, Nathan Carpenter, Glenn McAllum, Desmond Locke and Dolphins junior John Carey.
“These new inclusions help reinforce the team and we’re expecting great things once again.”
With nine teams entered, Feast is excited to finally see the teams take to the field this weekend, kicking-off a big season on and off the field
“In June, we’ll host out annual Sportsman lunch at Worrigee Sports Club, which will have guest speakers and auction items, including a signed Tyler Wright surfboard,” he said.
“We also have our fundraising “Hypno-trivia” night in September, to be held at Culburra Bowling and Recreation Club – with all profits going towards supporting our junior players.
“Finally, due to the popularity of the inaugural Indigenous round last year, it will make a return in 2017.”