Newcomers Angus Stevenson and Michael Davis have stepped up to coach Waratahs in 2019.
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The pair were both new to the club last season but combined for an undefeated season in second grade.
Now they’ve been handed the task of taking on a first grade outfit coming off a perfect season as well.
Both aren’t looking to change what was a very successful formula for the club when Richard Skellern was at the helm.
“I don’t think much will change to be honest,” Stevenson said.
“It will be the same as it always has been.”
While not expecting any wholesale changes, they are looking to add a different perspective.
“Having got into the culture down here, and knowing what Waratahs are about, we are happy to keep that going but also put our own sort of stamp on it,” Davis said.
“Not taking them in a different direction but contributing our thoughts to the club.”
No side has gone back-to-back in Southern Inland since Waratahs did in 2010 and 2011.
It’s something the club would like to emulate after winning two of the last three titles undefeated.
Davis admitted there will be more pressure moving up to first grade, but doesn’t think the fact the club went through undefeated will impact too much.
“Everyone is going to be out to get us next year just as everyone was out to get Leeton and Tahs the year before that,” he said.
“We will expect that but I wouldn’t say there is pressure but it is a good challenge really.”
He believes the chance to go back-to-back will add extra incentive.
A solid turnover of players is expected from the 52-14 grand final win over Ag College last month.
However there is good depth at the club and some new faces are expected to make their way to town.
While Stevenson came to the club with coaching experience in Canberra, it was the first experience for Davis following his playing days.
However he found it a perfect way to get involved in Wagga.
“It was a good way to meet people in the community, having only moved out 18 months ago,” Davis said.
Being new to the club, both are looking to expand the club’s presence in the community and have opened the door to any perspective players or supporters.
Waratahs have been building their relationship with Kapooka for the past few seasons and are looking to continue for it to grow in 2019.
Waratahs have also brought Sam Palmer on board as second grade.
Palmer was part of their undefeated side in 2016 before moving away and has since hung up the boots.
He’s looking forward to being back with the club.
“Coaching is a good way for me to stay with the boys and with the club,” Palmer said.
Brother Hugh Palmer, who has previously coached first grade at Waratahs, will help out when available and the club is still looking for a third grade mentor.
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