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BALLAN
COACH
Tristan Batten (new)
2018 SEASON
11th, 6 wins, 10 losses
Best and fairest: Darren Tanti
Leading goal-kicker: Jack Gibbs (27)
KEY ARRIVALS
Jak Kennedy Hunt (Inverleigh)
Simon Seddon (Inverleigh)
Beau Runnals (North Geelong)
KEY DEPARTURES
Jason McNamara (North Ballarat City)
Sam Sher (not playing)
Sam Hitchings (Darley)
Jake Wilkie (Ocean Grove)
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO BELOW
FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
We are aiming to improve on last year. Just missing out on finals sees us wanting to be part of it in 2019.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
We've been working hard on our skill execution under pressure and fitness. I see our fitness as a strength.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Just play your role.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
Pre-season has been difficult to manage around the cricket schedule, but the boys have put in a solid block of work and look to be a lot fitter than this time around last year.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
Excited to see the younger guys step up. Ryan Bongart, Lachlan Conlon, Hayden Thompson and the Snaith boys have put in a big pre-season.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Waubra or Buninyong.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Darren Tanti (Ballan).
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
There were a number of good signings at Ballan during the off-season, but a few have fallen through and won't be playing with the club in 2019. That, combined with some other key departures, has hurt the Blues' chances of climbing up the table, however the side still shapes as an outside finals chance if things go right during the campaign.
BEAUFORT
COACH
Rohan Brown (returning)
2018 SEASON
2nd, 14 wins, 2 losses (premiers)
Best and fairest: Daniel Venditti
Leading goal-kicker: Jack Duke (49)
KEY ARRIVALS
Heath Black (Mooroolbark)
Dean Kelly (Mooroolbark)
KEY DEPARTURES
Daniel Venditti (Bundoora)
Tom Le Lievre (Monash Blues)
Jack Duke (Avoca)
Scott Howard (North Ballarat City)
Digby Sangster (Harrow-Balmoral)
Jarrod McCorkell (retired)
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO BELOW
FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
Premiership is the ultimate goal, but to make the eight and finish in the top four are the first steps to hopefully get there again.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
Cohesion as a group and competitiveness.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Play on instinct, work hard for each other and have fun.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
We had a later start than usual and came back as a group after Christmas. The players came back in great condition so we have been able to concentrate more on match simulation and game plan scenarios.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
Lachie Murray. He's had a full pre-season after missing most of the year last year and has elevated himself to one of the captains of the club.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Waubra.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Tommy Horne (Hepburn).
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
The Crows landed a long-awaited premiership last season, and while their list is still very strong, a number of top players have left the club. And while it's hard to see Beaufort being any better than it was during 2018, the club is more than capable of going back-to-back.
BUNGAREE
COACH
Heath Pyke (returning)
2018 SEASON
9th, 9 wins, 7 losses
Best and fairest: Joel Mahar (also Geoff Taylor Medal)
Leading goal-kicker: Luke Mirtschin (25)
KEY ARRIVALS
Steve Butler (Tatyoon)
Bailey Veale (Wickliffe-Lake Bolac)
Joe Downey (East Point)
KEY DEPARTURES
David Benson (retired)
Joel Mahar (East Point)
Scott Mann (Pyramid Hill)
Sam Mewett (Pyramid Hill)
Luke Mirtschin (retired)
Chase Morgan (retired)
Jason Linke (retired)
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FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
It will be more of a weekly focus. The ceiling hasn't been placed on the playing group.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
Our key on-field strength for season 2019 will be our versatility and youth.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Prepare well and keep looking to improve on what we are doing.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
Pre-season has gone reasonably well with two solid hit-outs.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
No individual player, but more so the bunch of guys we have from 18-22 years of age. See which ones can stand up and become consistent senior players.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Beaufort is the obvious ones, but I'm sure there will be four or five others which will be nipping at the Crows' heels.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Myles Sewell (Newlyn).
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
Looks as though it's going to be a tough season for the Demons, which have said goodbye to a string of top players. Given the side missed finals in 2018, you'd get some nice odds about the team figuring this year. Will still be competitive and should finish around the middle of the table.
BUNINYONG
COACH
Shaun O'Loughlin (new)
2018 SEASON
4th, 12 wins, 4 losses (runners-up)
Best and fairest: Sam Russell
Leading goal-kicker: Isaac Baker (47)
KEY ARRIVALS
Luke Burn (Ararat Eagles)
James Heslop (Moe)
Josh Lee (Ocean Grove)
Patrick McGrath (Leongatha)
Luke Van Rooy (Morwell)
Dom Violi (Nyah Nyah West United)
KEY DEPARTURES
Michael McKenzie (Apollo Bay)
Fraser Russell (TBC)
Jacob Coxall (Lake Wendouree)
Jack Romeril (working)
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FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
We are aiming to qualify for the finals by winning as many games as possible.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
We have a very coachable group who are all willing to work hard and develop their game.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Enjoy the game.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
We have had excellent numbers at training. The boys are all very keen.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
Jarrod Morgan has had a fantastic pre-season. Everyone at the club is excited to see him playing at his best.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
It looks to be a very even competition. I guess Beaufort is the favourites after winning last year.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Myles Sewell (Newlyn).
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
There was more grand final heartbreak for Buninyong last year, with the side going down in yet another decider. New coach Shaun O'Loughlin will bring a new voice to the helm and he looks to have assembled a team capable of winning the premiership in 2019. Certainly one of the main contenders.
CARNGHAM-LINTON
COACH
Matt Beaston (returning)
2018 SEASON
17th, 1 win, 15 losses
Best and fairest: Beau Ketchen
Leading goal-kicker: Ross Waters (24)
KEY ARRIVALS
Joel Radlof (Dunnstown)
Damian Tabakovic (Newlyn)
Luke Thomas (Newlyn)
Jake Tanner (Terang-Mortlake)
Brad Dunbar (Smythesdale)
Jayson Gilbert (Smythesdale)
Jayson Porter (Smythesdale)
KEY DEPARTURES
Beau Ketchen (Lismore-Derrinallum)
Luke Parker (Birregurra)
Zac Mawson (North Shore)
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FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
No ceilings on this group. It's about every time that we train and play, we keep growing individually and collectively. This will hopefully give us a better product on match day.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
The playing group being unified and an us against them mentality. I'm excited about the whole group evolving.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
If you play your role it creates for others. Team-first footy. Control the controlables.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
Really strong representation on track and the list is healthy and fit. Our new recruits are also fitting in really well. We are looking forward to the season opener and there's no bigger challenge than the reigning premiers in round one.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
No one player, rather the whole team gelling together and integrating our new players into our environment.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Throw a blanket over a few sides. I think it will be really tight at the business end.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Not sure. I think teams are more even across the board.
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
Carngham-Linton collected the wooden spoon last season and will again find it tough in the competitive 17-team competition. Landing a few wins would be a good result for a senior side that looks unlikely to challenge any of the top teams in 2019.
CLUNES
COACH
Johno Leoncini (returning)
2018 SEASON
16th, 1 win, 15 losses
Best and fairest: Jesse Baird
Leading goal-kicker: Nic Clarke (15)
KEY ARRIVALS
Brad Dolan (St Pauls)
Jack Fenner (Sunbury)
Brody Lawford (Bentleigh)
Barama Blow (Bentleigh)
Reagan Maddaford (Heatherton)
KEY DEPARTURES
Jessie Baird (East Point)
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO BELOW
FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
As I've always said, we try to win every game we play and let the ladder take care of itself.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
Versatility.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Stay in the game.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
Like every other club... good.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
It's not just one player, it's the whole group. How far they have developed is what I'm excited about.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
I think Buninyong. The side was hurting from its performance in the grand final, so with some new personnel, the Bombers are going to be hard to beat. I also think Gordon.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Brad McKay (Hepburn). He's a very versatile player. The other is Rupert Sangster (Beaufort). He goes unnoticed, is very quick and his performance in the grand final was great.
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
Clunes managed only one win last season, but Magpies supporters can expect a better return in 2019. While a finals spot is unlikely, coach Johno Leoncini and his boys should be able to make significant improvement on that win-loss ratio given the talent that has come to the club.
CRESWICK
COACH
Ryan Knowles (returning)
2018 SEASON
13th, 4 wins, 12 losses
Best and fairest: Matt Miller
Leading goal-kicker: Ryan Knowles (19)
KEY ARRIVALS
Joel Antonio (Ballarat)
Pearce Antonio (Ballarat)
Ethan Tibbles (Bacchus Marsh)
Toby Goss (Buninyong)
Dean Romeril (Springbank)
Wyatt Cavanagh (Hepburn)
KEY DEPARTURES
Joel Berry (Ballarat)
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FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
Improvement on last year and wanting to play finals footy like every football club.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
A good mixture of youth and experience compared to previous years.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Take the game on a bit more with the footy and to work hard both ways.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
It's been a really big pre-season and we seem to be fitter than last year.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
All the new guys and young blokes coming up from the under-18s.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Newlyn and Beaufort.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Billy Driscoll (Springbank) or Steven Clifton (Newlyn).
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
Creswick was competitive enough last season, but was still a long way off being a genuine finals contender. There's some handy inclusions into the side this year, but it's hard to see the Wickers figuring in the top eight.
DAYLESFORD
COACH
Zac Tisdale (returning)
2018 SEASON
15th, 2 wins, 14 losses
Best and fairest: Joel Cowan
Leading goal-kicker: Dylan Muscat (25)
KEY ARRIVALS
Michael Cummings (Casterton-Sandford)
Tom Conroy (Ballarat)
Cam Ralph (AFL Ontario)
KEY DEPARTURES
Joel Cowan (Trentham)
William Giacometti (Trentham)
Shane Black (Trentham)
Xav Walsh (University Blacks)
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FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
Aiming to improve on last year's two wins, but ultimately we want to be back playing finals.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
Our pressure.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Enjoy playing together and aim to continually improve as a team.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
Extremely well on and off the field. We went back to basics and just enjoyed chasing the footy around in the sun. The club's in a much more settled position this year and we're extremely excited for the year.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
Got a few. Seb Walsh missed most of 2018 so it's like having a new recruit. And a pretty handy one at that.
Cam Ralph had a year overseas and I love what he brings to the club on and off the field. He's a player you just love playing with and all the boys can't wait to play with him again.
And Michael Cummings adds so much experience and knowledge to our midfield. Also, it's the first chance at a full senior season with him personally, so I can't wait to get out on the field with him and play some good footy.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Buninyong.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Recognise the big men.. hopefully a gun ruckman polls well.
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
The return of Michael Cummings is huge for the Bulldogs, but some other key departures will make it tough for the senior side to compete against top-end rivals. Should win a handful of matches, but finals looks a stretch.
DUNNSTOWN
COACH
Justin Abrams (returning)
2018 SEASON
8th, 9 wins, 6 losses, 1 draw
Best and fairest: Sam Jenkins
Leading goal-kicker: Harry McKimmie (22)
KEY ARRIVALS
Kade Rattley (East Point)
Josh Mann (Buninyong)
Jed Millard (Lismore-Derrinallum)
Jack Leonard (Ballarat)
Matt Chapman (Buninyong)
Hamish Hallahan (Wodonga)
Jack Sutherland (Ballarat)
Josh Renga (Buninyong)
Daniel Westblade (Buninyong)
Nathan Sammons (Huntly)
Thomas Lake (Marong)
Dan Kearney (Hamilton Kangaroos)
KEY DEPARTURES
Sam Jenkins (Sebastopol)
Nick English (Taylors Lakes)
Andrew Toan (SMW Rovers)
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO BELOW
FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
Ideally continue our year-to-year improvement and win a final (maybe more).
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
Flexibility in regards to our depth. Our forward line has many options and our midfield is deep.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Everything is about our standards and setting them high as a club. Enjoy our football, work hard and continually improve.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
We have no excuses come the start of the season. Our pre-season has been extremely good... from our camp, practice matches and general training. We are well prepared.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
We have so much improvement and upside in most of our current list that it is hard to pin-point any one player. We want to spread the load rather than focus on any individual.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Newlyn.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Matt Bulluss (Dunnstown).
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
Broke back into the finals last season after a few years of gradual improvement under Justin Abrams. A couple of key figures are gone, but the depth looks strong at the club. Should be able to make finals again in 2019.
GORDON
COACH
Ron Watt (returning)
2018 SEASON
3rd, 13 wins, 3 losses (preliminary final)
Best and fairest: Mark Gunnell
Leading goal-kicker: Adam Toohey (42)
KEY ARRIVALS
Brad Horsham (Geelong West Giants)
Zac Cattlin (Mill Park)
Kade Gall (Mill Park)
Tyler May (Donald)
Isaac McCabe (Leopold)
Scott Nippress (Hamilton Kangaroos)
Ben Quinlan (returning)
KEY DEPARTURES
George Walker (Edenhope-Apsley)
Chris McGuigan (Lake Wendouree)
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO BELOW
FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
We have been regular finalists in recent years, so there is a high expectation among all at the club.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
A mix of strong and determined experienced players, combined with some depth at the younger end of the list. They have shown significant improvement in the initial phases - now that has to be transferred under pressure.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Your attitude and effort will dictate the outcome.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
A short lead-in to round one, but with a pleasing commitment from most players who showed greater fitness levels than last year.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
I am fortunate that we have a number of players who bring some exceptional talent to the game... but I can't say that excites me more than the lesser talented players who find improvement with hard work.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
I could not even guess. You never fully understand who other teams have attracted or lost and whether they have gained improvement from their current playing list.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Too many variables and just too hard to put that on any Gordon players.
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
Had a strong campaign in 2018, but just fell short of a grand final appearance in what was Ron Watt's first year in charge. Watt has kept most of the squad together, been able to add some talent and also had the luxury of a full pre-season this time around. This sees the Eagles as one of the main threats to the premiership.
HEPBURN
COACH
Segifili Asa Leausa (returning) and Clive Raak (new)
2018 SEASON
6th, 11 wins, 5 losses (elimination final)
Best and fairest: Brad McKay
Leading goal-kicker: Brad McKay (36)
KEY ARRIVALS
Sam Dunstan (North Ballarat City)
Nathan Dunstan (North Ballarat City)
Tommy Horne (Newbridge)
Jack Fowler (Newbridge)
Julian Lockwood (Leongatha)
KEY DEPARTURES
Daniel Rees (Kangaroo Flat)
Tom Godsell (East Sunbury)
Tallan Wright (Greenvale)
Ken Cummings (retired)
Joe Clarke (South Barwon)
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO BELOW
FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH (Segifili Asa Leausa)
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
We will always aspire to finish in a top four position to give ourselves the best chance of making a grand final.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
Our diversity across the board. We feel confident that we could put numerous players in different positions and they'd still be able to play their roles and be successful.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Team success is built off dedication and sacrifice.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
Pre-season has been solid with some exciting signs from our young core who have taken their fitness and game to the next level after their initial season in seniors in 2018.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
Sam Dunstan.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Beaufort.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Brad Mckay (Hepburn).
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
There's been some big outs and some big ins at Hepburn, which again look certain of playing finals. Hard to know if the new faces will help bridge the gap between the Burras and the top four from last year, but don't be surprised if the spa country powerhouse is again right there at the business end of the season.
LEARMONTH
COACH
Nick Willox (returning)
2018 SEASON
10th, 7 wins, 8 losses, 1 draw
Best and fairest: Jason Rae
Leading goal-kicker: Anthony Zelencich (35)
KEY ARRIVALS
Matt Willox (Glenroy)
Trent Baird (Royal Park)
Rich Zelencich (Royal Park)
James Pratt (Kalangadoo)
Nick Bone (Nhill)
KEY DEPARTURES
Dylan Page (Redan)
Todd Curran (Lexton)
Vincent White (Minyip-Murtoa)
Zac Tunbridge (Royal Park)
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO BELOW
FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
We are aiming for finals - anywhere from 6-8 realistically. We need to win the 50-50 games and give ourselves an opportunity.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
Our run and carry. Very dynamic team with guys who can make plays when needed.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Make the right decisions. Execute the fundamentals.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
Very well. Had a great core group of guys doing a lot of fitness and working on fundamentals.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
All my players. They can all do great things if they want.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Hepburn.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Kyle Mackay (Learmonth).
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
Learmonth has been on the cusp of the finals in recent years, but often struggled to beat the teams in the top half of the league. The Lakies again look around a similar mark and could sneak into the bottom end of the eight with a bit of luck.
NEWLYN
COACH
Dan Wehrung and Chris Dwyer (returning)
2018 SEASON
7th, 10 wins, 6 losses (semi-final)
Best and fairest: Myles Sewell
Leading goal-kicker: Patrick Parr (30)
KEY ARRIVALS
Luke Bull (Dartmoor)
Marcus Darmody (North Ballarat City)
Scott Carey (Lake Wendouree)
Boe Bish (Wycheproof-Narraport)
Tristan May (Wickliffe-Lake Bolac)
Luke Faull (East Point)
KEY DEPARTURES
Nil
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO BELOW
FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH (Chris Dwyer)
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
Top four is the aim and we'll see what happens from there.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
Midfield is our strength, but we will have an improved forward set-up this year.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Work to our structures and put the team first.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
We have prepared well and have had two hit-outs against good opposition.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
Boe Bish comes to us with a distinguished playing career so I can't wait to see him go about his business.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Again any of the top four from last year and I expect Hepburn to be pushing towards the top again. It looks fairly even, similar to last year.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Tough one as there are a number of well-credentialed new players entering the league, one of which may take it out. I've got no idea at this stage.
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
Newlyn was a sharp improver last season and with some more good recruits coming on board, the Cats look destined for a top four finish. And from there, they could certainly win the premiership.
ROKEWOOD-CORINDHAP
COACH
Damon Delaney (returning) and Shaune Moloney (new)
2018 SEASON
14th, 3 wins, 13 losses
Best and fairest: Sam Chapman
Leading goal-kicker: Sam Chapman (27)
KEY ARRIVALS
Leigh Ryall (Redan)
Fallon Wanganeen (Moonta)
Andy Parkinson (Lismore-Derrinallum)
Ben Hochuli (Onka Valley)
Jake Dowell (returning)
Doug Arthur (Redan)
Simon Clifton (Bungaree)
Keegan Powell (Belmont)
KEY DEPARTURES
Brendan Berlund (retired)
Lachlan Platt (Inverleigh)
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO BELOW
FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH (Damon Delaney)
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
I've got no intention to put down a win-loss number, I'm just looking for improvement then build from there. Aim is to win round one, then focus on round two.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
Versatility. We've got a good mix of talls and smalls now that will make us difficult to match up on at times.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Penetrate the game and fight like the devil.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
Excellent. Has been an extremely positive preparation with the playing group strongly focused and committed to improving themselves. We were able to employ a strength and conditioning coach that has been a great asset in getting our group in fantastic shape.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
Ben Reese is likely to continue his presence among the other dominant CHFL ruck figures, whilst Luke Philp and Mitch McLaughlin are in great shape and ready to tackle their new midfield roles.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Buninyong. Whilst losing a number of their fringe players, the Bombers still have the quality top-end talent and a lot of height around the ground.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Ben Reese (Rokewood-Corindhap).
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
It looks a stronger Grasshoppers list than last season and the squad should be able to improve on its three wins of 2018. Can't see the team making the top eight, but the song should be sung a few times throughout the campaign.
SPRINGBANK
COACH
Joe Otto (new)
2018 SEASON
5th, 12 wins, 4 losses (semi-final)
Best and fairest: Joel Maher
Leading goal-kicker: Billy Driscoll (31)
KEY ARRIVALS
Johnathan O'Brien (Albion)
Todd Finco (Albion)
James Thompson (Albion)
Michael Otto (Wickliffe-Lake Bolac)
Sam Harkin (Kolora-Noorat)
Mitch Couch (Nirranda)
Pete Lewis (Deniliquin Rovers)
KEY DEPARTURES
Brock Freeman (North Ballarat City)
James Wall (Donald)
Dave Wall (TBC)
Paul O'Shea (retired)
Chris Graham (retired)
Michael Searl (retired)
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO BELOW
FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
Our main aim is to make finals.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
I think we have a really even team across the whole ground.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
With a relatively small team, one of my main messages is to try and play a quick, attacking brand of football, followed up with really strong pressure across the whole ground.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
Pre-season has been good. We've had the two practice matches. We also had a really grueling training camp that the boys got a lot out of.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
Being my first year at the club, I am really excited to see all the players. But if I had to pick one, our new ruckman Johnathan O'Brien looks very exciting.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Tough question for me given I didn't watch much Central Highlands football last year. I think Beaufort will be very hard to beat again.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Tom Stapleton (Beaufort).
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
Was probably just a tad behind the best teams in the league last year. And with a new-look list, it's hard to know where the Tigers stand. The team looks a finals lock and a spot inside the top four wouldn't completely surprise.
SKIPTON
COACH
Greg Middleton (returning)
2018 SEASON
12th, 6 wins, 10 losses
Best and fairest: Kal Dubbeldam
Leading goal-kicker: Curtis Townrow (34)
KEY ARRIVALS
Brayden Draffin (North Ballarat City)
James Cusack (North Ballarat City)
James Sclanders (North Ballarat City)
Lachie Johns (Minyip-Murtoa)
Cooper Henson (Laharum)
Tom Miller (Irrewarra-Beeac)
Mitch Bruns (Leitchville-Gunbower)
Chris Madden (Lake Wendouree)
Sam Peeters (Lake Wendouree)
KEY DEPARTURES
Mike Young (Wy Yung)
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO BELOW
FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
More than last season.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
Added depth and even spread.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
Continue to improve our club as a whole and enjoy ourselves as we progress.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
Better than previous seasons.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
Looking forward to working with the group as a whole again.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
The usual top four teams.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
No idea.
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
Skipton made some good improvement last season after a horror 2017 campaign that failed to return a win. A strong recruiting drive has bolstered the senior list yet again and the Emus should be fighting for a spot towards the bottom end of the top eight.
WAUBRA
COACH
Matt James (returning)
2018 SEASON
1st, 15 wins, 1 loss (preliminary final)
Best and fairest: Tom Nash
Leading goal-kicker: Jarred Crabtree (32)
KEY ARRIVALS
John Coleman (Gol Gol Hawks)
Ryan Head (Euroa)
Paul Dodds (returning)
Caleb McGrath (North Ballarat City)
KEY DEPARTURES
Nick Dinsdale (Heyfield)
Jono Neville (interstate)
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO BELOW
FROM THE COACH'S MOUTH
Q: In terms of win-loss, ladder positions and the ultimate success, how high are you aiming in 2019?
As a group, we have the intent to improve but understand there are no guarantees. So we have a lot of hard work in front of us to achieve improvement from 2018. We have been lucky to add in some mature big bodies to assist in the development of our list and feel they will complement the group we have.
Q: What do you see as your key on-field strength?
Evenness of the list and depth through our 22 players.
Q: What is your key message as coach?
We just want to play a positive brand of football, defend hard and be creative when in offence.
Q: How have the pre-season preparations gone?
Well. The boys have trained with real intent, setting standards and it's been great watching us all mature. I would say we are advanced in a lot of areas in comparison to 2018.
Q: Which player are you most excited about?
Jackson Kinna has had his best pre-season, so I'm really excited to see how he progresses. Also excited to see Glen Coleman get a good run of health after only three games in 2018.
Q: Which is the team to beat this season?
Beaufort and Buninyong have been benchmarks for a number of years now.
Q: Who is your tip for the Geoff Taylor Medal?
Tom Stapleton (Beaufort).
TIM O'CONNOR SAYS
Waubra achieved great heights in 2018, but fell just short of a grand final berth. The addition of some experienced players and the ability to keep together most of a young, lively list means the Roos are again likely to be right there when the whips are cracking.