James Murphy
THERE is a triple threat at the head of Gambier Centrals’ Steeline Limestone Coast Football Association title defence this season.
A joint A Grade coaching effort from Brodey Koop, Tommy Navickas and Sam Shoemark will put the Lions in good stead as they hunt for back-to-back premierships, following their success under Chris Fleetwood in 2021.
Speaking to The Border Watch, Koop said the trio has been happy with how the pre-season has unfolded with the coaching arrangement giving an edge to the group.
“It seems to be working pretty well so far, we all bring different things to the table that all benefit us,” he said.
“Me and Sam are playing coaches, while Tom’s on the sidelines.
“It gives us another set of eyes on the side while we’re focused on other things.”
Koop said Centrals has built well towards Sunday’s Round 1 outing against Naracoorte, with good signs on the training track.
“We are in our last phase of pre-season before Round 1, so each week our standard is lifting and I couldn’t be more happy with how we are progressing so far,” he said.
The Lions put on a good show despite being short-staffed at the recent pre-season carnival, finishing runners-up to International in a close conclusion to the day.
Koop looks forward to the competition ahead and with the team finishing on top last year, there has only been a few tweaks needed heading into the season opener.
“We don’t have to knock all the walls down and restart, but in saying that we are putting our own twist on a couple of things,” he said.
“With player exits and player ins we have had to fine-tune a couple of things, but for the most part we are looking to play the same brand of soccer.”
There are a few player movements in the senior squad, with young talents Broc Linden and Brayden Coppick both big losses to the side as they venture away from the Blue Lake city.
However, the Lions have picked up some talent as well.
“Coming into the team we have James Davey across from Millicent,” Koop said.
“He has fit in unbelievably well and has trained the house down all pre-season.”
Koop said they are excited to have him involved with the team, while returning players Rhyleigh Hollands and Alex Hill will also bolster the squad.
Centrals will open the season with a home game against a seemingly improved Naracoorte, which could be a good test for the Lions to kickstart their premiership cup campaign.
“I have great belief in this squad that we will be up the pointy end again come the end of the season,” Koop said.
