Re: Why will we improve?
Reply #11 –
Young fellows are a year older.
1. Stability. Didn't delist almost 30% of the side for the first time in a good few years (exasperated by injuries, also) . So many of the blokes who played together this year will again suit up with mostly familiar faces.
I think that they are the two most important reasons why we should improve.
Our youngsters will be stronger and should have greater endurance with another pre-season under their belts. Their increasing maturity should mean more confidence and greater resilience.
Marc Murphy made a comment about hoping that we wouldn’t make too many list changes this year. He implied that it was quite draining to have teammates replaced in bulk. A more modest list turnover this year should improve team cohesion.
Another factor will be the addition of some proven, mature players. That should take some of the pressure of our youngsters and allow them time to develop as AFL players. Both Newnes and Betts are leaders and should have a positive impact on the blokes around them.