The Penrith Rams are looking forward to the 2011 season with great optimism, on the back of two grand final appearances and the return to the club of some quality players.
The Rams were delighted to have promotions confirmed to both the Division 2 and U/18 Premier Cup competitions, proving a vindication of the hard work put in by both the Board and playing ranks over the previous 12 months according to Chairman Kevin Tate. “It’s very important that we acknowledge the efforts and enthusiasm of board and working committee members given the significant change both on and off field during 2010. As for our players, and especially our leadership group, their contribution was simply outstanding throughout the year as they drove club expectations, disciplines and ultimately our club culture to new levels.” said Tate.
Penrith have also welcomed back three “prodigal sons” in Dale Chivas and Jay Edwards from Campbelltown, along with Nathan Wright from Pennant Hills. All three bring with them a level of professionalism that has already begun to rub off on the rest of the group, with other new recruits such as James Denton (East Coast), Brad Redfern (Holroyd-Parramatta) and Mitch Renehan (Sapphire Coast) also impressing.
Chairman Tate has been buoyed by the way the club’s pre-season has progressed so far, with strong numbers in attendance. “Our reigning best and fairest, Dave Bradley, looks like raising the levels on his already high personal expectations and looks in great condition for a massive season. Nathan Wright is another who has stamped his intentions for a huge year with clear dominance in time trials, and he has settled back with us with ease. Dale Chivas and Jay Edwards are two very classy, skilled movers who have also returned home and have been well received by all.” continued Tate. “Others such as Ben Robinson have been ultra-impressive, not to mention the Under 18's players who are moving to the senior ranks this season such as Matthew Payne and Adam Sharp, who have worked hard during the off-season and will be an integral part of the 2011 journey.”
The U/18’s campaign is also shaping up nicely, with excellent numbers at training so far under the guidance of head coach Rob Murie, and his assistants, Michael Walker and Dave Nolan, including 15 returning players from last season’s Challenge Cup triumph. Whilst the club is under no illusions as to the difficulty of the task at hand, competing against the cream of the 18’s crop, the boys remain quietly confident of putting up a very competitive display.
The Rams have also continued to make gains off the field, with the club being delighted to renew its partnerships with major partners, IGA Signature, Ice Break Ice Coffee, Goulburn Valley and the Red Cow Inn. The club have also renewed their partnership with the Penrith YMCA, which will see all players receiving a free gym membership for the duration of the season as part of their registration.
The practice match circuit sees games locked in so far against Macquarie Uni on March 12 and Moorebank Sports on March 19, with the club to hold its annual Family Day and U/16 Round Robin carnival the following day at Greygums Oval.
New players to the club are always welcome, please contact Greg Corless on 0412 579 061 for further details.
Last Modified on 28/05/2011 15:58