VTCA: How Sean Warren wants to keep guiding St Francis De Sales

Sean Warren has been appointed as the new coach of St Francis De Sales and he’s excited by the playing group he has the opportunity to work with. Here’s why.

Blake McKinnon impressed with the bat last season. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Walking into St Francis De Sales, new coach Sean Warren sees a group with plenty of potential.

With previous experience with the likes of fellow Victorian Turf Cricket Association clubs Aberfeldie, Craigieburn and Glenroy, Warren is keen to help his new home reach their potential.

The Saints finished fifth in Division 1 last season having lost to grand finalist Haig Fawkner by six runs in the last game of the home-and-away season.

A win would have been enough to lift them into the top-four.

“Last season’s result shows we’re not too far away,” Warren said.

“The top two divisions in this competition are extremely competitive. But you can’t afford to rest on your laurels and expect to be in the finals mix again because you were last year.

“The club has been really competitive for a long time, the nucleus is there to keep improving as a group across all grades.

“Whether we get in some recruits to add to our playing stocks or develop some of the younger guys, which is one of the reasons I took on this role, I’m confident we’ll be able to find a way.”

Warren has seen some of St Francis De Sales’ young talents up close, facing off against them in Second XI games in previous seasons.

“I know a fair bit about them,” he said.

“Having seen the way the way they’re able to play, I think there is a bit to work with.”

Warren said the decision to put his hand up to coach the VTCA club was an easy one, labelling the foundations he has to build off as “strong”.

“The club is very professional in the way it is run,” he said.
“Just the way they got about everything on and off the field is really impressive.”

Last month the club held its senior presentation night with Lucas McKinnon named the winner of the Jason Ball Medal.

Tayo Walbrugh took out the First XI batting award with Blake McKinnon the bowling.