2022 SPOTSWOOD PREVIEW

By KEL ROWE

After an abrupt and disappointing end to last season, one could easily assume that there is plenty of unfinished business for the teams of the Victoria University Polytechnic Senior Women’s competition. Spotswood are certainly no exception.

Finishing just shy of the top spot — winning 8 games — the Division 1 side looked to be on track for another finals appearance before the season was cut short. Co-coach Ian Allan, back at the helm with coaching partner Chris Grant for 2022, says that whilst it was on their radar, player development in an unstable year was of far greater importance.

Spotswood’s 43-strong playing list boasts a solid depth of talent, with 5 players being named in 2021 Team of the Year, including Madeline Mitchell, Kerrie Clarke, Peggy Toutziarakis Thalia Wright, and Caitlin Brennan, the latter named as Captain of the prestigious line-up.

Brennan has had significant impact during her time with the Wolves, claiming the 2019 Leading Goal Kicker title, and sealing the win for her side in the Grand Final of the same year. Taking the helm as captain in 2021, Brennan was pleased with the growth and synergy of her young teammates during a difficult and interrupted season — many of whom have been playing together since juniors.

Will the women of Spotswood continue to assert their dominance in Division 1 this season? Catch them in action as they begin their 2022 campaign in Round 1 of the Victoria University Polytechnic Senior Women’s competition across the weekend of April 8-10.

Meanwhile, Spotswood’s senior men’s team will be hoping for a better start to the 2022 TIV Division 1 season after losing their first four matches last season.

Anthony Eames’ men turned their form around to level the ledger at six games and six losses before the home and away season was cut-short due to the extended lockdown. The Woodsman will be hoping to kick-off this year’s campaign in better fashion.

“Anthony and the senior coaching team will again continue to develop our players and compete ‘the way we want to play our brand of football,’” the club said when they announced Eames’ re-appointment.

“The club looks forward to Season 2022 with great excitement.”

Spotswood’s Round 1 match is against the Yarraville Seddon Eagles at Yarraville Oval on April 1.