NORTH Central Football League offers a lot of excitement in 2024, with nine teams optimistic they have a shot at finals football.
The 2023 season ladder was not always a true reflection of results, except in the case of Sea Lake Nandaly.
The Tigers went the entire season undefeated and followed that up with a grand final win against Nullawil, who made their finals dash from fourth on the ladder.
But teams such as Wedderburn and Charlton are underrated when judging last year’s ladder as several of their games against the top four sides were tight finishes where a kick split the difference.
Boort is another side with much promise after a diabolical injury riddled year where they limped through the season struggling to fill a full side.
But with recovery, strong recruitment and the development of a handy set of juniors through the club ranks, the side promises to stand up to its true potential.
Of the nine sides, six have engaged new senior coaches who come into the league with fresh eyes, new strategies, and a wealth of experience behind them.
Structure and process is at the heart of all teams’ ambitions this year and most coaches felt an ability to maintain those things would return dividends on the scoreoard.
And while it was Sea Lake Nandaly who took the chocolates last year, with a 12-point premiership win over league debutants Nullawil, the Maroons also welcome a new coach and some crafty recruitment, including that of Matthew Wade, who comes with a wealth of football knowledge and experience.
The Tigers, on the other hand, have made very little change to their line-up and coaching staff.
The old saying “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it,” runs true with an undefeated season and premiership trophy on the mantel.
The Tigers did the least amount of recruitment, and head into the 2024 season with confidence that they will be the team to beat again.
In a hard-fought grand final, Sea Lake Nandaly were able to withstand Nullawil’s surges, but the Maroons sent a stern warning to the competition that they were there for sheep stations.
Birchip-Watchem created intensity all season with a consistent game style that saw them head into the preliminary final confidently from second place on the ladder.
But they were caught off guard by Nullawil who proceeded to the big dance while the Bulls were left to lick their wounds.
They come into this season extremely hungry to make amends and have made several changes to the side, including a full recruitment campaign.
With strong recruitment from Boort, Donald and Charlton, and so many changes in leadership, the season is shaping up to be a surprise packet.
