Coffs braced for epic defence

The loss of half Freddie Suaesi will be huge hurdle for Coffs Rugby to overcome in 2012.

Leigh Jensen

COFFS Rugby Club will attempt the first and reserve XV premiership defence with a coaching panel boasting more than a century of experience.

With Geoff Mould locked in to head the 'brains trust', the next step was to elevate Mitch Lind to control the second grade and Brendan Hoy to handle the new under-18 side.

"It goes without saying we are pleased to have Geoff back but equally it's a pleasure to have Mitch and Brendan on board after coming through the ranks," club president Mariusz Werstak said.

"Most of our emphasis is on our juniors and after not entering an under-age team in 2011, we believe the appointment of Brendan will encourage young players to try rugby.

"His experience as a junior coach and player will rub off on the local talent which going off last season, is at an all-time high in terms of player numbers coming through the Friday night junior competition."

Over the last decade the Coffs Harbour club has won over half of the under-18 and 19 years' titles but a lack of numbers meant the club had to sit out 2011.

Veteran player Paul Butcher said the coaches are well aware of the need to groom and bring in new players.

"The club is undergoing a readjustment after several key players from the 2011 premiership sides left town," he said.

"Plus another 15 or so who donned the boots in recent seasons have retired."

These moving away include fullback Will Guest, scrum half Faavae 'Freddy' Suaesi and improving forward John Korff.

That was before the decision by representative flanker Vilese Vatuvili to move to the 'dark side' and try his luck in the 13-a-side code with Group 2's 'millionaire club' Coffs Harbour Comets.

"We are looking for players to fill all these spots as well as front rowers which are always in need," Butcher added.

"Players are currently training at Jetty Beach every Tuesday from 5.30pm before we hit Coffs Coast Advocate Rugby Park in the first week of March.

"Those interested in a game of rugby should drop down to training, visit us on www.coffsrugby.com or give our president a call on 0408 616 968."

Trial games kick off in March with the ground occupied three weekends in a row.

These are to play Moree Bulls and Yamba Buccaneers (March 17), Alstonville (March 24) and Grafton Redmen (March 31).