The Penrith Rams are pleased to announce the appointment of Lachlan Smith as senior coach for 2009. Smith, who will also continue on in a playing capacity, has played 105 for the Rams since beginning in the U/18’s in 1999. He is a former captain of the club as well as finishing runner up in the Best & Fairest in 2004, and was also a member of the 2008 Sydney AFL representative side that won the NSW Country Championships in Wagga.
He has also played for Mayne in the AFLQ competition.
The Rams have commenced pre-season training in preparation for the coming season, with a restructuring of the Sydney AFL competition providing a new impetus for the club as they approach 2009 according to Penrith Chairman Michael Haynes.
“The restructure will enable us to be far more competitive as a club.” said Haynes. “The problems we face in general terms are that we find it very hard to attract players and people resources generally due to geographic issues, and the Penrith region is not a natural home for Australian Football, which makes it extremely hard in relative terms to compete with other clubs who have far greater access to interstate recruits.”
“The AFL have recognised this and have rejigged the competition to make it more even, which means that we are a realistic contender this season if we can put our best team on the park.”
“We’re delighted that Lachlan has taken the coaching job on. He brings a real enthusiasm and freshness to the role and I’m sure that all the boys will get right behind him in order to make this season a success.”
The U/18’s remain a strong focus for the Rams, with the club’s six strong representation in the Western Sydney Pioneers squad providing confirmation of this. “We’re rapt with the progress the boys made last year under the coaching of Kevin Tate, and with most of them eligible again this year, and with the calibre of players coming out of the local U/16 competition, we really think we can push hard for a spot in the finals.” continued Haynes.
All current, past and potential players are invited to attend training on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6.30pm (Under 18's from 6:00 PM) at Greygums Oval, Cranebrook. For further information on playing with the Rams, you can call Football Manager, Jason Bradley, on 0417 243 009 and Under 18's enquiries call Greg Corless on 0412 579 061.
Last Modified on 20/04/2010 19:17