Tigers lock in coach for 2016

Morwell football club has not let any grass grow under its feet in appointing a senior coach for next season.

Joel Soutar, the club’s captain who also took over as coach when the incumbent was sacked after round two, has been confirmed in the position for next year.

Soutar’s coaching career took off like a rocket.

His first three games in charge produced wins over Moe, Warragul and Maffra.

However, things have been a bit leaner since - only one more win - and a foot injury suffered in his first match as playing coach has had him on the sidelines ever since.

AFL Gippsland chairman Brian Quigley and commission member John Anderson visited the Drouin (Thursday night) and Warragul (Saturday) clubs to give insights into the thinking around the AFL’s sustainability plans for community football clubs.

They spoke at a general meeting at Drouin after training and at Warragul’s sponsors’ day luncheon about a new players’ point system to come into force next year and salary caps in 2017.

Most people that have some contact with local football have their own ideas about what should and shouldn’t happen to try to even up competitions and curb skyrocketing player payments.

It would be beneficial for them to attend a session conducted by the commission if they get a chance.

A couple of big events coming up at the Drouin Football Club.

First up is the annual football/netball sponsors’ luncheon on Sunday week when Drouin plays neighbour Warragul.

Former local and now Carlton (via Collingwood) player Dale Thomas will be a very interesting guest speaker.

No doubt he’ll have some “inside” stories about the Collingwood premiership side he played in, his move to Carlton and the trials and tribulations of the Blues this year.

The other major event is a celebration of the formation of the Drouin football club 125 years ago.

Former players and families are invited to attend the August 1 match against Morwell and stay on for an evening of reminiscing and recognition in the social club.

Teams of the decades from 1970 to 2000 will be named.

There’s no charge for the evening function although attendees can make a donation that will go towards meeting the cost of new jumpers for the junior teams.

On the following day, Sunday, August 2, there’ll be a “legends” football game at the Drouin oval starting at 1pm. consisting of two 20-minute halves.

A barbecue will follow.