PORT Kembla Blacks are forecasting a big season in AFL South Coast Seniors on and off the ground in their milestone 40th year in 2015.
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The Blacks returned to first grade last year, winning three games and finishing a respectable seventh, but are aiming for the top four finals in 2015.
‘‘I’m certain we are going to improve and finals is the goal,’’ club president Peter Bright said.
‘‘It’s a tougher comp now with the (Wollongong) Lions back but we’re confident with a season back in first grade we will have a better season.’’
The Blacks have a new coach with former Wagga Wagga based Ross Combs taking over from Brad Yates, who has linked up with new reserve grade club Dapto Stallions.
‘‘Ross brings a huge amount of experience. He was far and away the top candidate to replace Brad and we’re really happy to have him in charge.
‘‘Living at Kiama, Ross has been looking at our comp closely the past year and was really keen to get involved again with a club looking to improve, after a spell away from coaching.’’
Off the field, the highlight of the Port Kembla season will be their 40th year anniversary dinner at Port Kembla Leagues Club on Saturday June 13.
‘‘It’s a reunion night for all past players and anyone involved with the club,’’ said Bright.
On the field, the Blacks have a core of capable, experienced players returning in 2015 led by midfielders Stuart Baker and Michael Bright.
The club is also expecting significant improvement from talented wingman/back pocket defender Zac Jovanovski, who had a taste of the senior grade as a 16-year-old last year, while Robbie Worthington will add experience to the midfield.
The Sydney Swans are running a two-day camp in Wollongong on February 23-24, with Swans captain Kieren Jack and other teammates to visit the club as part of its anniversary celebrations.
Port Kembla are finalising pre-season trials for March in preparation for the season kick off on Saturday April 11.
Prospective players can train with the club on a Tuesday or Thursday night from 6pm at Kully Bay Oval.
The club is looking for players through both grades, with longtime clubman Paul Sultana to coach the Blacks reserve grade side.
Last year Sultana was selected in the All Australian over 50s squad.
For more information about the Port Kembla Blacks visit their website at www.pkafc.asn.au>.
