Pies star relishing change of scenery

NEW roles are bringing a new life to football for three-time TSL player of the year Jaye Bowden.

Bowden’s Glenorchy takes on rival Clarence today at KGV and the 29-year-old is expecting a red-hot contest.

“Both clubs have been successful in recent history and we are two proud clubs,” Bowden said. “There is a mutual respect between us both.

“In terms of this year they have copped a few more injuries than us.

“They have been really good in some periods of their games and we will need to be up for what they bring at us.”

Bowden has been the TSL leading goalkicker three times, including his 52-goal season last year, however he is enjoying playing different roles for the Pies under new coach Paul Kennedy.

“Personally it’s been really refreshing this year,” Bowden said. “I’ve been able to play in different positions and try multiple roles.

“It has been really fun and it has allowed me to think about different parts of the game.”

As the season goes on Bowden expects the players’ roles within the team will become more cemented.

“It will settle down later in the year I imagine as we start getting closer to finals and we find what fits the team best,” Bowden said.

“It’s good at the moment because it allows the younger guys to play different roles, which is good for them and for the team.”

Glenorchy has had a flawless start to the season having won every game so far, including an away victory over North Launceston, but Bowden is not reading too much into it.

“It has been well documented that they [ North Launceston] had a few out due to injury and illness,” Bowden said. “It’s been said by others but at this point of the season it’s good to get wins in the bag. We have a good belief among ourselves and we have a core group of players who have spent a few years together now.”

Today’s clash starts at 1pm following the Tasmania v Sydney Swans Academy under-18s curtain-raiser. The Tigers are on the road to Launceston to take on the Blues at Windsor Park, while North Hobart hosts Lauderdale at North Hobart Oval from 2pm and North Launceston has the bye.