FOOTBALL
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From the brink of extinction to promotion challengers - that's the goal of District League battlers Corrimal Rangers in 2014.
On the verge of folding just over five seasons ago, Rangers are on a mission to return to the summit of Illawarra football for the first time since the 1980s.
"Obviously the last few years we have been in the doldrums but with a bit help from some new sponsors coming on board, basically the club is looking at rejuvenating and eventually pushing for promotion to the Premier League," club president Michael Cappetta said.
"We are trying to make sure we have the right people, not just anybody. We are trying to build it from the ground up."
Rangers recently secured a $15,000 grant from the state government to help enhance facilities around their home pitch at Memorial Park and assist their cause.
"We have had some help with government funding. Improving the facilities has been one major factor," Cappetta said.
"We have got $15,000, two years ago we got $40,000 through some green energy grants and that was used to install water tanks and update facilities.
"Last year we got $20,000 to expand our seating area and this year we will be able to put a roof over that."
Cappetta said the assistance had been crucial for what the club was trying to achieve and added a change in the head coaching role should help Rangers fulfil their long-term aspirations.
David Cuda is the new first grade gaffer, in his first shot at mentoring the top grade.
"We are trying to build a culture and build success through that," Cappetta said.
In other District League news, Oak Flats secured the services of experienced gaffer Michael Garcia for 2014. Garcia has spent time coaching in the Premier League, State League Youth and District League over the past 14 seasons.