EDFL: Why Doutta Stars coach isn’t concerned by list turnover

While it might be a “work in progress”, opposition sides can’t afford to take Essendon Doutta Stars lightly after an impressive off-season attracting several young stars.

Essendon Doutta Stars coach Barry Prendergast. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Essendon Doutta Stars coach Barry Prendergast has declared his side a “work in progress” but is excited by what the 2024 season holds.

After maintaining their Premier Division status last season, Prendergast’s side is determined to take the next step.

The playing list has experienced somewhat of a turnover in the off-season with several players in and out the door.

But the man in charge believes he has the playing group in the right spot.

“The age demographic is right where we want to be,” he said.

“There’s real depth around the place, I think those players picked between 15 and 30 are much stronger than where we might have been last season. There’s been a lot of work put in by our staff.

“We’ve got a good balance across all roles on the ground, there’s going to be some real competition for spots which is exciting.”

Among the ins are some of the EDFL’s most exciting talents who have played in the lower grades in recent seasons.

Bailey Ryan, who booted 48 goals for Hillside last season, has signed alongside Noah Weihrauch from West Coburg.

Noah Weihrauch has joined from West Coburg. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Bailey Ryan in action for Hillside. Picture: George Sal

Ruckman Liam Mercieca is making the step up from division two with Burnside Heights.

Bayley Overend has also made the decision to step up from the third tier after time with Coburg Districts.

Meanwhile, Michael Kiraly, who spent last year in Essendon’s VFL system, has shifted from Macleod.

Billy Cootee, Campbell Wearne, Ethan Sivijs, James Harrold, Jordan Davis, Tom Wallis and Zach Hijazi are among the departures who played senior footy last year.

“The new guys have really added to the place,” Prendergast said.

“We’ve lost some experience and some talented players but I’m not too concerned because what we’ve brought in. Bailey Ryan has been a great pick up for us, when you start to watch some of these guys in match sim you can see what they’re about.

“Noah Weihrauch has really stood up in pre-season, Liam Mercieca is another one making a step up the divisions. Those guys coming up the grades were really keen to challenge themselves.

“As a club we’re really supportive of our players wanting to test themselves at the highest level possible.”

Essendon Doutta Stars’ Blake Taylor. Picture: Andy Brownbill

While Prendergast is excited about the on-field potential of his group, he’s been more impressed with how they are developing away from it.

“The playing group is as good as I’ve been involved with in terms of culture,” he said.

“They really want to buy in to what we’re trying to build towards as a club. We’ve had Gavin Brown come in and do some sessions with the group on culture and leadership which has been really important for us.

“We don’t really have those older guys who you might turn to as leaders. We’re asking young guys to be leaders at a young age.

“But it’s something they’re really embracing.”

Essendon Doutta Stars opens its season against Pascoe Vale on April 13 at home from 4.45pm.