WRFL: Laverton signs Ayang Nyanjok, Matt Vorbach and Ubil Chol
Western Region league battler Laverton is targeting finals footy next year after a huge recruiting haul while it’s looking just as positive off the field. Here’s why.
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There’s an optimism around Laverton that hasn’t been felt in years.
In recent years the Magpies have been Western Region league battlers but they’re desperate to change that in 2023.
A 100th year milestone awaits a year later and the club is starting to take flight under a committee who are putting their heart and soul into the club.
On the field, the Magpies showed signs of improvement in 2022, winning three games including breaking through for their first victory in over 1000 days.
And the black and white look set to go to another level under coach Tony Jofre with an impressive swagger of recruits.
Former Sandringham Dragon Ayang Nyanjok, Bentleigh midfielder Matt Vorbach and Ubil Chol are the headline recruits set to make the move to Melbourne’s west.
Nyanjok is a 203cm prospect capable of playing in all three areas of the ground.
The pair are set to be joined by ruckman Antony Pasqua, Caleb Goodrum and Tom Congerton.
Meanwhile, Soni Rainbow has returned to the club having departed in the middle of 2022 to join St Kilda City in the Southern league.
President Stephanie Hartnup believes there was no signs of “slowing down” on the recruiting front.
“We’ve spent a lot of time looking for the right recruits, who want to be part of our new brand for the long-term future,” she said.
“This off-season has been about trying to find the right recruits, not just anybody. It’s no secret we want to try and push for finals next year.
“Tony has been working very hard to increase our playing numbers, he’s also our sponsorship co-ordinator. Compared to previous years, we’ve probably got some more money to spend on recruits.
“You need money to compete in this league. Numbers have been great to start pre-season training so we’re excited about what’s ahead.”
The future of Laverton’s junior and senior women’s programs is also looking promising.
Steven Kewish will coach the women’s side next year and will be assisted by Garry Harvey.
Meanwhile, Hartnup revealed the club was hopeful of fielding four junior teams in 2023, up on just the one under-9s team last season.
“We’ve been running and spring training program which has invited local kids to come and try footy,” she said.
“We’ve had up to 120 kids come to those sessions which is fantastic. AFL Victoria has played a key role in helping us set that up.
“Before this year, the club hadn’t had junior teams for a long time. Junior footy is so important for the long-term.
“Our netball program will also grow next year, they’ve already had trials for next season.”
Off the field, the future is looking just as promising for the Magpies.
The Victorian Government’s recent election win means a $1.3m upgrade to the club’s facilities including a new scoreboard, updated change rooms and facilities that are female friendly.
“We have committee members and coaches who have been working hard to improve all areas of the club,” Hartnup said.
“It’s been a whole group effort. The club can’t be successful without the buy in of an entire group.
“We’re looking forward to a big 2023.”
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