How Laverton is committed to its growth as a footy club

Laverton co-coach Tony Jofre can remember the days of picking the blokes “who lived across the road”. Now the Magpies on the path forward as he gives an insight into how they’re doing it.

Laverton picked up its first win of the season against Tarneit.

The growth of Laverton Football Netball Club post-Covid can’t be understated.

In previous seasons, the Western Football Netball League club would need players to double up to ensure it had enough numbers in its seniors and reserves teams.

For the first time on Anzac Day, the club fielded a senior men’s Thirds teams in a sign the Magpies are continuing to grow.

It was a fantastic Friday for Lavo as they secured wins in the seniors and reserves against Tarneit.

“From doubling up and picking blokes who lived across the road to now having monster numbers on the list,” club president and senior co-coach Tony Jofre said.

“The win was an important one for us in front of a good crowd. Over the last few years, we’ve had a really strong focus on bringing the community into the footy club.

“There’s a really strong focus for us at the moment on continuing to build the connection we have with the local area. The culture is a really good one and we’re still heading in the right direction.”

As they have done in previous years, Laverton has continued to add fresh faces helping to build depth to the playing list.

One of the important steps in the off-season was welcoming Nick Waddell as co-coach of the senior side. Given his connection with junior teams in the competition, he’s been able to help add some younger players.

“Bringing in younger guys is one of the challenges we have with limited juniors,” Jofre said.

“There’s been some positives to start the season and we’re going to keep learning and building towards where we want to go.”

WYNDHAMVALE CONTINUE TO IMPRESS

The Falcons are continuing to prove why their the best team in the competition after recording a 75-point thumping of Sunshine Heights on the weekend. Lewis Stanton proved why he’s one to watch in the race for the ton with another six goals. Brock Jones continued his impressive start to the season while Cam Morrison and Liam Scarborough also impressed.

BIG MAN DOMINATES

Suns ruckman Michael Ryan proved why he’s one of the best ruckman in the competition after securing a best on ground performance in the win over Western Rams. Ryan led the way with young recruit Mitch Laan showing his quality to be named among the better players.

SERAFIN A KEY FIGURE FOR NORTH

Mat Serafin proved why he is one of the leading forwards in the division after booting seven goals in a best on ground display against local rivals West Footscray. Mason Jacob, who returned to the club at the start of the season, was also impressive.

ALBANVALE CONTINUE WINNING WAYS

Albanvale remains one of two undefeated teams in the competition after recording a 22-point win over Braybrook on Anzac Day. Daniel Granato and Macauley Lonergan kicked two goals apiece in the win.