AFTER a number of lean seasons, it appears the Berry-Shoalhaven Heads Magpies are back on the right path, with the hiring of new coach Jayson Smith.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Magpies, who haven't won a first grade premiership since 1967, believe the former Kiama, Gerringong and Jamberoo coach and player is the right man to lead his young side back to the promised land.
"I decided to take on the Magpies job as it presents a fresh challenge in my coaching career," Smith said.
"I'm really looking forward to the opportunity of having my voice as a first grade coach - whereas in the past, I've had assistants or been an assistant coach.
"I really want to make this job my own."
With that being said, Smith wants to bring fresh ideas to the club - which he has gained in experience from his previous roles, including coaching numerous Group Seven junior representative sides.
"I'm not one of those coaches that yells and screams to get my message across," he said.
"I want to be more relatable and explain to the players why something should be done the way it is - which will be helped by the playbook I've put together.
"On top of that, I've really be reiterating the importance of composure, which cost the first grade side a number of wins last season."
Smith won't be the only new face in a leadership role in 2019, with hooker Blake Dryden named as first grade captain - with Joe Rogers as club captain.
"Blake [Dryden] has been playing in first grade for a number of years and has consistently been one of the club's top players during that time - his knowledge of the game is second to none," Smith said.
"I think the added responsibility will see Blake take his game to the next level, which will no doubt make everyone around him better.
"He's just an out and out leader."
Joining Dryden as key players returning to the club are Rogers, Josh Ingold, Sam Burns, Luke Ryder and Jack Parrish - with them also adding both Ty Cloos and Jimmy Sweeney.
"With most of our side returning from last season, as well as a couple of new additions and younger players coming through the ranks, such as Billy Hayburn, Charlie and Ollie Parrish and Ky Sims, I have an exciting group I can work with," Smith said.
"I'm not planning to be in this role for just one year, as I have a long term view for the club.
"As such, improving every single time we train and play is the main goal for us.
"If we can do that, I'm confident the results will follow."
Courtney Ward
Sports Journalist for South Coast Register and Milton-Ulladulla Times, who loves all things sport and travel. All views are my own.
Sports Journalist for South Coast Register and Milton-Ulladulla Times, who loves all things sport and travel. All views are my own.
