VSDCA: Dan Schuppan and Jakson Knight to lead Spotswood into Subbies

Don’t be surprised if Spotty’s young and talented side surprises a few in its inaugural season in the Victorian Sub-District Association.

Spotswood left-armer Max Buck sends one down. Picture: Hamish Blair

After spending most of its 92 years in the VTCA, Spotswood makes the big move to the Victorian Sub-District Association this season to give its juniors an opportunity to play at a higher level.

Known for its strong club culture, Spotty’s young and talented side will be out to find its feet, rather than vie for premiership glory, in 2021-22.

But, according to club president John Wheeler, don’t be surprised if they surprise a few sides.

“We have a fantastic culture in our club, from our First XI down to our Fourth XI,” Wheeler said.

“(Coach) Dan Schuppan has done a fantastic job bringing our club together. We believe with our passion and our history we will go better than some people think. We think we’ll be not too bad.”

Jakson Knight will captain Spotswood.

Former Victorian Under 17 and Footscray Premier batter Jakson Knight will captain Spotswood in the historic season.

In two seasons at Spotswood, he’s piled up over 1100 runs.

Mac Short, who skippered the side last season, will be a key player along with gun batter Jarryd Vernon.

Vernon’s brother Riley, a Gisborne and Waratah (Darwin) premiership player, has come across from Airport West St Christopher’s and will strengthen the batting.

Tall left-armer Max Buck (24 wickets last season), bowler Matthew Sazenis and classy keeper Ross Horkings will also play key roles.

Spotswood coach Dan Shuppan. Picture: Hamish Blair

Wheeler said Spotswood had long punched above its weight.

“Spotswood is probably one of the smallest areas in Melbourne,” he said.

“There are a few long streets and a couple of side streets across.

“We’re a really good club. We’ve got probably eight people who have been 50 year members of the club. We’re a really good family club.”

Wheeler said moving to Subbies was a chance for Spotty to set themselves up for the future.

“Over the years we’ve lost a few junior players who’ve wanted to get into the Cricket Victoria system,” he said.

“We’re a fairly young side, so we thought why not?

“We’ve got a brand new ground redeveloped, new club rooms, new training facilities so we thought we may as well make the move and see how we go.”

Spotswood has produced many top cricketers, including Kieran Elliott, who opens the bowling for Premier powerhouse Melbourne.

Now a new wave of Spotty stars are emerging.

“We won an under 15s premiership a couple of years ago and all of those kids have pushed through and are playing in our seniors now. It’s great,” Wheeler said.

Spotswood hosts Taylors Lakes in Round 1 and visit Port Melbourne in Round 2.