Posted on Friday 14th July, 2023

VU POLYTECHNIC SENIOR WOMEN’S PREVIEW: WEST FOOTSCRAY

By KEL ROWE

Four points were all that separated the West Footscray Roosters from a shot at the big dance in 2022, and it’s safe to say, that Preliminary Final loss is a driving factor the team’s desire for success in Season 2023. Head coach Shane Windridge is back at the helm, and impressed by the renewed hunger amongst players, both for individual improvement, and a second crack at finals.

“It was a real highlight in preseason to see the team add a running program to training, off their own back,” Windridge said.

“The players are motivated to get back into finals and win this season, after then disappointment of last year’s Final Series.”

The final in question — against a competitive Caroline Springs Division 2 side — has been a driver for many to stay on with the side, with the Roosters maintaining most of their core list into 2023. Windridge is encouraged by his team’s desire to build and improve, and willingness to take the game on.

“Seeing players play with more confidence and self-belief has been great. I am keen for them to try new things on the field and make their touches in the game more damaging,” he said.

There are some new faces down at Shorten Reserve in Season 2023, with Windridge happy to see the team’s tall and on-ball stocks bolstered by the arrival of the likes of Roxana Sefton, Jemma Hay, and Sarah Roberts.

“Roxy has joined our club and adds speed and run, providing us another option in the midfield. Robbo is a tall player who will give us more flexibility — as a key forward and in the ruck — with a few games experience she has quickly become a strong player for us,” Windridge notes.

The Roosters have firmly cemented their third-place position on the competition ladder, with 7 wins and 3 losses in the season so far, but Windridge believes the top spots are well within reach.

The side has come up against Spotswood twice already, losing by just a point each time; and only suffered a narrow 2-goal defeat to ladder-leaders Wyndhamvale. Anything is possible, come finals time.

Windridge is also pleased to see some of the clubs reinvent themselves this year, with new coaches and improved numbers — he sees it as a positive sign for the growth of the competition. “I think clubs like North Sunshine and Laverton have picked up good coaches this year, so that alone will have an impact,” he reflects.

As for his own side’s growth and development, Windridge is challenging the Roosters to really take on their game, “…do the basics well and be consistent in effort in both games and training. Explore what you are capable of and be the best teammate you can be.”

Catch the West Footscray Roosters in action this evening when they head out to Saltwater Reserve to take on the Point Cook Bulldogs, opening siren at 7:30pm.