Thomastown co-coach David Folino discusses the Bears, expectations, preparations

31 for 31: In its eight seasons in NFNL Division 2, Thomastown has consistently finished between fourth and sixth. How can the Bears take the next step?

Anthony Capeci in action for Thomastown. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Thomastown has always been thereabouts since stepping up to NFNL Division 2.

The Bears have finished no higher than fourth and no lower than sixth – finishing fifth five times – its eight complete seasons.

Yet, the club hasn’t quite been able to take that next step.

It is determined to make 2025 the season.

Thomastown’s player retention has been strong, although big man Jarryd Coulson and Seb D’Arro have departed, while four players have been brought in – including Casey VFL captain and former Melbourne AFL-listed player Deakyn Smith.

Jackson Hayse kicks for goal for Thomastown. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Co-coach David Folino said everything needed to go up a level if the club was to push deeper into finals.

“It’s everything clearly.

“We’ve put in a fair bit of work, fitness wise, and there’s been consistent numbers so it’s all positive at this stage.

“We need to take the next step from a gameplan point of view, a fitness point of view and hopefully bring a more consistent attitude and performance each week.

“We recruited a fair few players last year so they’re back again for a full season and know each other a lot better.

“It’s about building on what we had last year and doing the basics well, so we won’t be doing anything too fancy this year.”

Smith is expected to be at VFL level for much of the season, especially after being named captain at Casey.

Blake Ross has been brought in to replace Coulson, crossing from West Coburg where he played in the club’s Essendon District Division 1 grand final side.

Michael Tabacco gets a kick for Thomastown. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Keilor Park premiership player James Guicas will boost the Bears’ attack, while Luke Baniowski (West Coburg) will slot into the midfield rotation.

With a settled line-up, Folino says the club’s goal for the season is obviously to make finals but, critically, win a final.

Last year’s recruits have led the charge in pre-season training.

Folino said several of the club’s graduating under-19s had also taken a big step forward and were looking to break into the senior team.

“The usual suspects, Kyle Green and Julian Janev and Jimmy Lucente are really pushing to take the next step,” he said.

“Blake, who’s come across, has performed really strongly and a couple of the boys that have pushed up from the under-19s have been really impressive as well.

“They’ve taken another step with their training and body, it’s been noticeable, so they’ll play some senior footy. There’s a group of 8 to 10 that will play through the seniors and reserves, which is exciting.”

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Thomastown wrapped up its pre-season preparations with a final practice match hitout against EDFL Division 3 premier Taylors Lakes on Saturday.

It will now look ahead to a Round 1 clash with Panton Hill at Main Street Reserve.

The Bears will face relegated Macleod, Northcote Park and elimination final nemesis Lower Plenty in a tricky opening month.

Thomastown is also looking for new or returning players for its women’s team and is offering free registration for the season.