NEW Henwood Park coach Scott Elphick believes the club has the talent and emerging youth to launch another challenge for the Pascoe Cup premiership.
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Elphick, who replaces Matt Menser after his departure to join ACT National Premier League Two side Wagga City Wanderers as a playing assistant coach, brings a wealth of experience at a number of levels.
He coached Grafton United in North Coast Football's premier league for three seasons, has experience at NPL and Queensland Premier League level and assists the Australia-based West Ham Academy.
The Hawks, who last won the title in 2017, were knocked out in the preliminary final this year and although there is likely to be a couple of new faces, Elphick doesn't feel major changes are required to contend again.
Elphick was Tolland's coaching director at the start of this year before joining Henwood Park mid-season as their reserve grade coach.
"Basically it's about development because there's so many quality players here and they're often not looked at," he said.
"I just have to relax because the competition I come from is pretty full on, it's a bit of a learning curve.
"I won't be making any real changes, I'm happy with the guys and I don't want to put out anyone either.
"A couple of holes need to be filled, a couple of people have approached me and I've told them to have a look and see what they think."
Menser was one of Henwood Park's major creators and goal scoring strengths, an area Elphick will look to strengthen.
"We're looking for a number nine (striker), I've got some guys interested in taking that on and a couple more midfielders to give some guys a break.
"I play a bit of a different style to this league so it will be a challenge for me to get the guys playing that style. It will give the Griffith team (this year's grand final winners) a bit of a run.
"I'm happy with the guys that are there and there are a lot of young players coming through who will start fighting for spots as well.
"I like to give the younger ones a run here or there, it gives them a taste for it and keeps them hungry."
Meanwhile, Tolland has announced former player Joel Irlam as their Pascoe Cup coach for next season.
Irlam replaces Daniel Lawrence, who has decided to take a step back to focus on his recovery from a torn anterior cruciate ligament.
Aaron Harley will be Irlam's assistant coach while Florence Wilson will return as women's Leonard Cup coach.
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