After finishing sixth in the Amateur Division One league last year, North Beach is looking to challenge the title this season.
COVID-19 reduced last season’s length, so this will be North Beach’s first full season back in Division One.
Stephen Critchley will coach the First team again with assistant Kaimon Parker, club captain James Di Carlo and vice-captain Chris Judge.
Critchley said the season will be tough but believes the team is good enough to challenge the top sides.
He also backed the Reserves to win their league again this season, despite the departure of long-time servant Michael Frost.
He led them to three league wins, as well as bringing home the 2019 Reserves Cup.
Taking over will be Adam Jonathan and assistant Nick Di Carlo, who have been directing preseason fitness and conditioning sessions every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.
Nathan Dreibergs will take charge of the Division Four socials team looking to improve last year’s stuttering season.
Culture shift
Men’s Vice President Callum Parker said this year’s goal is to revolutionise the club’s culture.
He wants to build on last years progress, and with a good preseason, adopt a “ruthless winning mentality.”
The club’s league and cup success this season relies on players from all teams adopting a work hard, play hard attitude.
“I want other teams to hate us on the field because of the fight and desire we have,” he said.
“If we can do that this season, then I think the outcome sorts itself out.”
After a “ripper” preseason, Parker said he is excited to watch what happens this year.
“To be a part of this club this season is something I cannot wait for.”
He won’t have to wait long as there are two games scheduled for this week.
The Firsts will face the Reserves in a pre-season test match this Tuesday at 6.15 PM, before an FFA Cup clash on Sunday.
The Beach will face Wembley Downs at Curtin’s Edinburgh Oval, for a 2 PM kick-off. Be sure to come down and support the boys.
New North Beach
The Sunday game will also see North Beach’s new media team in action, with matchday updates and post-match analysis for the First team.
Parker said the new media drive aims to put North Beach on the map and show the world what the club is about.
“Its a new North Beach and I just can’t wait,” he said.
New sponsored kits are also on the way so the boys can win games in style.
The kits will be revealed at the inaugural club media day planned for some time in March.
This year will be big, so watch this space.