NFL: Laurimar looking to prosper in first season under new coach Justin Sherman
JUSTIN Sherman could not have timed his arrival to Doreen better.
Local Footy
Don't miss out on the headlines from Local Footy. Followed categories will be added to My News.
JUSTIN Sherman could not have timed his arrival to Doreen better.
The former Brisbane Lion and Western Bulldog moved to the suburb about seven years ago, when its population was 11,000 and Laurimar Power was taking its first steps in the Northern Football League as a junior club. The Power’s rapid growth has since mirrored the population boom in the suburb.
More than 10,000 new residents called Doreen home between 2011 and 2016 and by 2014 the Power boasted 12 junior teams.
Sherman, 31, has been appointed coach of Laurimar for its second senior season in 2018 after his playing days ended with Division 1 club Whittlesea.
“Having lived in the community for seven or eight years and really seen it grow, I have really seen the people in it jump on board the footy club,” Sherman said.
“Doreen was a small community but now it is quite large and it has grown rapidly. It has taken off.
The Power won two games in their first season in Division 3 under inaugural coach Wayne Sharkie, defeating Mernda by 20 points in Round 6 and Reservoir by 64 points in Round 9.
“We’d like to think this year we can be competitive,” Sherman said.
“If we cannot get blown out in games, if we can take it up to teams for 120 minutes, I’d like to think younger players with their run and their enthusiasm, you just never know.”
Laurimar’s long list of recruits is headlined by former Tasmanian State League forward Josh Williamson (Hobart City Demons) and experienced midfielder Ben James (Lower Plenty).
Sherman, who was previously playing coach of Goulburn Valley league club Kyabram and featured in 138 AFL matches, said he had not been tempted to pull on the boots again after retiring at the end of 2017.
“I am really passionate about the role. I am really enjoying it,” he said. “It’s a great change. It’s time to give the body a bit of a rest.”
The Power will meet Panton Hill in Round 1 on April 14.
Power House eyes premiership push
After a disappointing end to the 2024 season, Power House is aiming to be towards the pointy end of the VAFA Division 3 ladder once again. Here’s how they plan to do it after a busy off-season.
Family draws Spicer to Stars
A family connection helped Fitzroy Stars land ex-AFL forward Phoenix Spicer and coach Neville Jetta believes it can have a longer-lasting impact.