MPCA: Frankston YCW appoints former Heat man as playing-coach

Frankston YCW’s new playing-coach boasts two decades of Premier experience and is eager to “build something special” at the Stonecats.

Simon Draycott is Frankston YCW's new playing-coach.

From Frankston Peninsula to Frankston YCW…it’s a significant change for Simon Draycott.

After nine seasons as Heat fourth XI captain, Draycott is dipping his toe in the coaching waters at local level.

He will be the Stonecats playing-coach, going from turf pitches to the synthetic surfaces in the Mornington Peninsula Cricket Association.

It will be a new experience for 35-year-old Draycott, who has only ever played at Premier Cricket level.

“I’ve only ever played for two clubs, Camberwell Magpies and Frankston Peninsula,” he said.

“I was a Camberwell Magpies junior…I played nine or 10 years in the seniors, and then had a year off. And then I was convinced to come down to Frankston and nine years later here we are.

“It’s been a good journey, almost two decades in Premier Cricket.’’

Frankston YCW players celebrate a wicket last season. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Draycott scored 2696 runs, at 22, and took 100 wickets, at 17.87, at the Heat.

He said going to local cricket “is going to be interesting’’ and his goal will be to lift YCW back to finals in Sub District grade after they finished in seventh spot last season.

“It’s going to be something very different but a challenge I’m really excited about,’’ he said.

“In saying that my mind is open. I’m happy to take whatever comes my way I guess.”

Draycott’s connection with YCW began last year.

He got chatting to a Stonecats player at a party, which led to him playing a couple of T20 matches and, instantly, he liked the club.

“Come the end of the season and they (Frankston YCW) reached out and said, ‘what are your plans?’” he said.

“I spoke to another couple of MPCA clubs who were keen but there was just something about YC.

“I just wanted to dip my toe in the water and see what this coaching caper is all about, so I think it’s a good club to start and hopefully we can build something special because I think there’s a lot of potential at the club.”

Draycott was highly regarded at Frankston Peninsula, where he not only captained the fourths but was also a committee member.

“He’ll be missed,’’ Heat general manager Mike Ronchi said.

While Draycott will coach and play, Jack Greenwood will continue as YCW captain.

Neil Barfuss and Heatherhill president Zach Horsley. Picture: Facebook

Meanwhile, former YCW captain-coach Neil Barfuss has returned to Heatherhill as senior coach.

He will steer the Hills as they return to Provincial grade after winning the Peninsula flag last season.

“It is with great pleasure we can announce the return of two time 1st XI premiership player Neil Barfuss as senior coach for the 2023/24 season,’’ Heatherhill said.

“Barf has had an outstanding career as a player/coach since the last time he represented the club and with his tactical mind and outstanding organisational skills we couldn’t resist getting him back to the club as we look to take on Provincial again.’’