by Dutchy » Mon Sep 30, 2013 7:42 pm
Coaches, players, supporters & partners are all feeling pretty disappointed after yesterday’s game against North. Whilst we are likely to think about what might have been for some time yet, it is probably a good time to reflect on some of the positives for this year, and during Andrew Collins’ time as Coach of the Club.
• This is the first time since 1961-62 where the Club has finished in the top 3 for 2 consecutive years
• We are the 2013 Foxtel Cup Champions
• 7 Players made their League Debut in 2013
• From the squad of 25 for yesterday’s game, 19 are 25 years or younger and only 2 are 30 years or older
• The impact of Adelaide and Port Reserves joining the SANFL next year will be greater for our competitors as we gained minimal use of our Crows and Port AFL listed players during the year, and none of them were allowed to play for us in the Finals, unlike Norwood, Eagles, North and Centrals
• A majority of our players have already committed to WAFC for next year
On behalf of all of the people associated with WAFC we say a huge thanks to Andy for the dedication and commitment he has shown in his role as Coach over the last 5 years. The professionalism he has brought to the playing group and the calibre of person/player he has attracted and/or developed at the Club leaves us in a stronger position than when he started in 2008.
The Future
The Club will have new leadership for next season. John Kantilaftas will be starting as CEO/General Manager Football in January, a new coach will be announced very soon and I have already started working at to improve the administration and financial side of the Club as General Manager Operations.
Already Adelaide Galvanising Industries has agreed to be Major Partner for the next 3 years and a number of other Partners have committed to 2014 and beyond. All Partners will be contacted shortly to renew and extend their partnership with WAFC, so stay tuned for more good news on that front.
We do need to improve the trading performance of the licensed premises. I have been talking to members/patrons and absent patrons to find out what we need to do to make the Club better and more attractive. We have already introduced a new bar menu with quality meals from $10.90, and the staff have committed to providing superior customer service, something members and their guests deserve.
To make our Club stronger, and to build on the gains we have made in the last few years we need to pull together and work as a team in all areas. To give the new coach and players the best opportunity to go for the premiership next season all of us have to look at using the function, bar, bistro and gambling (TAB, Keno and Gaming) facilities more regularly, so we can make more money.
Remember all the money we make goes to improving the football team and improving facilities and services for members and their guests…. Go the Bloods!
Regards,
David Wittwer
General Manager Operations