EDFL: An insight into Paddy Byrne’s plans for Avondale Heights
Back in the hot seat at Avondale Heights, Paddy Byrne has a clear plan on how he wants to take the club forward as he declares his first recruit a “ripper”.
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Paddy Byrne is determined to help set Avondale Heights up for short and long-term success.
The EDFL club has confirmed Byrne will return to the club as senior coach next season after recently signing a two-year deal through to the end of the 2025 season.
Byrne, who stood down at the end of 2022, replaces Richard Little who helped Heights maintain their Premier Division status for next season.
Ahead of his return, Byrne said he is in a better place after undergoing knee surgery and is determined to help the club take big steps forward.
“I’ve signed on as a club coach, looking at the whole club structure,” he said.
“We need to make sure there’s a strong connection between our juniors and senior programs, having that pathway is so important in local footy.
“There’s a lot of good people at the club who are making sure it does have a strong future. We’re going to have under-18s next year which is massive.”
Heights won three games this year and with a young playing list, Byrne believes he has plenty of talent to work with.
“Working with younger players is something I see as one of my strengths,” he said.
“I’ve probably coached junior footy for more years than I have senior sides. We’re going to focus on getting some senior experience around the younger guys.
“Having those guys around them can be really important for their development especially with the on-field guidance.”
Heights have already bolstered their list with the arrival of former Coburg Districts coach Tom Gleeson who will provide a strong target inside 50.
Gleeson, who has VFL experience, has signed on as a playing assistant coach.
“He’s going to be a ripper,” Byrne said.
“He has a good way of communicating with teammates, I think he will be more of a mentor for some of our guys.
“That’s why I targeted him and I’m looking forward to working with him.”
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