Sydenham Hillside prepare for first VTCA Senior Division season
Sydenham Hillside is set to play in the VTCA’s Senior Division for the first time this season and they believe they can make their mark. Here’s why.
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Sydenham Hillside is walking into the unknown in the new Victorian Turf Cricket Association season.
After four promotions in five seasons, the Storm will play in the VTCA’s Senior Division for the first time.
Under the guidance of new coach Warren Hackey, the rising powerhouse is confident of making some noise in what shapes as one of the most even seasons in recent memory.
Last season, the finals race came down to the final round before Deer Park went on to make the grand final from fourth position.
“It’s easy to see it’s going to be a much bigger challenge,” Hackey said.
“We’re not expecting to come into the competition and just breeze through it. There’s a lot of exciting times ahead of us as a club, it’s been a great ride so far and we’re really looking forward to continuing it.”
The Storm line-up this season will look very familiar to those of years gone past although they’ve managed to welcome two key faces to boost their hopes.
Three-time premiership star and two-time club champion Ben Green is returning after a year away and will play a key role in the top order.
“He’s like a brand new recruit, we’re very glad to have him back,” Hackey said.
Joining Green will be Scotland international Adrian Neill.
The right-arm quick arrived in Australia just over a week ago and will be an imposing figure for opposition batsmen standing at 6’9”.
“He’s hit the ground running,” Hackney said.
“He’s got a heap of experience, I can see him being a real asset for us with the ball.”
Hackney replaced premiership mentor Geoff Pretty during pre-season and said he was already enjoying the challenge.
“It’s been really good, something different for me,” he said.
“Managing the entire men’s program is a challenge, we’ve got more teams than last year. We’ve put in a solid pre-season and now we’re ready to hit the ground running.”
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