Port District vying for second straight Adelaide Footy League flag in 2023 after major recruitment

A division one Adelaide Footy League club believes it is primed for more success after adding more SANFL experience to its premiership list.

The Adelaide Footy League’s reigning division one premier is set to reach another level in season 2023, according to its coach.

Port District coach Josh Ramsey said his side, which defeated Prince Alfred OC by three goals in last season’s big dance, was ready for more success this coming season after adding more experience to his list.

Despite losing big man Dale Pearce to Central District ahead of the 2023 campaign, the club has been able to bring in more League footy experience, with West Adelaide forward Kenny Karpany Jr joining the Magpies.

Ramsey, who coached Karpany Jr during his time at West Adelaide, was excited by the move.

“I’m a huge fan of Ken, he’s a great player and still at a SANFL level but decided it had become a bit much for him,” Ramsey said.

Port District has been boosted by the arrival of forward Kenny Karpany. Picture: Matt Turner

“He lives in the area too which is even better and when I heard he was leaving that level of footy I got on to him pretty quickly.

“As a small forward, he provides a lot of pressure up front and can kick important goals. His preparation is at a top level too so he can be a really good influence on our young guys.”

Ramsey added that a number of star Magpies other than Karpany had returned in top shape throughout the pre-season including the Tom and Sam Gray, Ben Gould, Harry Hawkins and Jason Nyskohus.

He said the team reaching another level of fitness to be able to run and gun the ball from the backline would be a key to further success this season.

“We’ve lost a couple tall guys for this year including Dale (Pearce) which isn’t ideal but allows us to change a few things,” Ramsey said.

Port District players and fans celebrate their 2022 premiership win after the siren. Coach Josh Ramsey believed his side could still reach another level. Picture: Tricia Watkinson

“Offence out of defence is an area we want to be really good in. We were a strong defensive team last season but we’ve now got a bigger emphasis on how we move the footy and how we can hurt teams on the rebound better.”

Despite the departure of Pearce, the club has managed to keep the rest of its standout players, including former Port Adelaide AFL gun Sam Gray and standout halfback Cooper Gaffney.

While a back-to-back premiership looks attainable for his side, Ramsey said it would not be the main focus of his side’s campaign.

“We’re not really harping on that at all, there’s no destination as to where we’re going, it’s mainly about playing footy and enjoying it,” he said.

“We just want to develop, learn and improve. The boys are really keen to continue that trend and they’re training really hard.”

The club will begin match simulation and trial matches within the next month.