SENIOR MEN'S WEEKEND WRAP

Our Senior Men’s program travelled to Apollo Bay over the weekend for their first practice match of the year. We caught up with Reserve Men's Head Coach Colin Stenhouse and Senior Assistant Markus Welsh to get their thoughts following the group’s first outing.

reserve men | solid first hit-out to kick off the year

A great first hit-out to start the season and shake off the off-season cobwebs.

As expected at this time of year, skills were a little rusty in patches, but the intent was exactly where it needed to be.

Our run and carry really stood out, a continuation of the strong form shown late last season. It was great to see that confidence and instinct still present within the group.

Numbers proved a challenge throughout, at times with just 15 players on the field, as we managed loads for several players also scheduled for a half in the seniors. A big thank you to our Under 18s, Ali and Huss, who stepped up to help out and fill the gaps, your support didn’t go unnoticed.

match day highlights

Patrick Jamieson was outstanding through the middle, returning in terrific physical condition. Sean Evans, Will Adams, Jake Sweerts, Julian Guida and Rylee Pearson all made strong contributions across the day.

It was also pleasing to see players stepping outside their usual roles, with Josh Sabato, Torre Cosmano, Jake and Julian also spending time through the midfield and embracing the challenge.

Overall, a productive and enjoyable hit-out that sets a strong foundation for the season ahead. Plenty to build on as we continue to sharpen up, looking forward to the weeks ahead.

senior men | building connection

It was a bit scratchy at times skill-wise, which is expected for the first hit-out, especially in warm conditions. The boys got the job done in the end, finishing around 13 goals up, but more importantly it was a great chance to get away together and build some connection, especially with a few new faces in the group.

A solid start with plenty to build on as we keep working into the season. - A few players stood out across the day and are ones to keep an eye on heading into the season.

players to watch this year

Adrian Alfonsi - Our new centre half forward from Epping who will change the way we look going forward with his lead up work and presence in the forward half.

Daniel Spencer - Played as a small defensive forward, his tackle pressure and harassment was great and hit the scoreboard with two goals.

Aaron Evans - Continuing his form from last season with plenty of possessions and four goals to his name in our first hit out.

Daniel O'Kearney - Returning from Epping, Daniel adds plenty of hardness to our backline.

Rhys Hutchinson - Took on the ruck role over the weekend and was very impressive with his tap work and follow up around the ground.

Jack Bullock - With his impressive resume at Maribyrnong Park, he has bought a premier division attitude to our group and strong contest work around the ground.

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Our Senior Men have two more practice matches before the season kicks off, taking on Epping away before hosting North Footscray as part of our 2026 Season Launch.

senior men vs epping football club (AWAY)

LOCATION | Epping Recreation Reserve

DATE | Saturday 21 March 2026

UNDER 18.5 MEN | 10:00am

SENIOR RESERVE MEN | 12:00pm

SENIOR MEN | 2:00pm

senior men vs NORTH FOOTSCRAY football club (HOME)

LOCATION | Willowbrook Reserve

DATE | Saturday 28 March 2026

SENIOR THIRDS MEN | 10:00AM

SENIOR RESERVE MEN | 12:00PM

SENIOR MEN | 2:00PM

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