Payneham Norwood Union and Prince Alfred Old Collegians to play in Adelaide Footy League division one grand final
As players they tasted the highs of individual success but now Garry McIntosh and Brett Backwell will lead teams as coaches against each other in this Saturday’s division one Adelaide Footy League grand final.
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There’s little hope of getting a sledge from Magarey Medallists Brett Backwell or Garry McIntosh as they line up as opposing coaches in the division one Adelaide Footy League grand final at Thebarton Oval on Saturday.
Backwell’s Prince Alfred Old Collegians take on McIntosh’s Payneham Norwood Union with the Falcons chasing their first division one flag.
For Backwell, 39, the 2006 Magarey winner, there is too much respect for McIntosh – a dual Magarey Medallist and premiership player and Norwood Team of the Century member, who terrorised opposition players in 371 SANFL games.
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For dry-wit McIntosh, the commentary on his rival was more about setting up a promotional picture for the game.
“If there is a photo to be had I’m sure Brett will be a part of that,” McIntosh said.
While McIntosh has ticked off every box in his playing career and several premierships coaching Payneham Norwood Union from divisions two to four, he has yet to claim a division one title after falling short in 2015 and 2017.
“We would love to win one at the top level after being close,” McIntosh said
“Over the years I have become more of a manager and relied on the input from players coming back to the club after stints at Norwood and other places.
“The president says sometimes I’m too soft on the players. I liken my coaching style to a Neil Balme.
“So many things have changed and the players bring many changes to the table. A lot of those players have intel and IT skills and all that which is a big help. As a club I think we are growing really well, especially our juniors.”
While Backwell has one division one flag under his belt as a coach in 2016 he says he is still learning.
“I love coaching and teaching young men how to be better people and players,” Backwell said.
“I’m competitive but I love the aspect of helping and developing.
“As a coach your philosophies have to be strong and your work ethic needs to be consistent. We’re ready to go.”