Bears start at the top as they head in new 2020 direction
RUGBY UNION: Each new football season brings with it fresh plans, anticipation and optimism and there is no shortage of those at Toowoomba Bears rugby club this year.
Bears have long been a benchmark club in Downs Rugby competitions but after a couple of leaner Risdon Cup seasons they are looking to growl again on the back of a new brains trust and culture.
The club’s 2020 makeover includes the recruitment of four new members to the Agrade coaching panel.
Longtime Bears’ junior and teenage coach Ash Mann takes over this season as head senior coach.
He has been joined by Australian Army player Zane Mitchell who is Bears’ backs coach while Will Campbell will be in charge of the forwards.
Carl Irwin has been enlisted as front-row coach with 2020 team manager George Andreas rounding out the new-look line-up.
Mann said the club focus this season is on young talent and club culture.
“The club has been looking for a bit of a change at the top,” Mann said.
“We are looking to bring in some new blood to compliment our experienced players and we’re encouraging young fellas to be part of the club’s new direction.
“Club culture is another big focus we’re looking to change this year.
“We want to put the fun and enjoyment back into our football and if that can translate into on-field performance then we’ll be heading in a good direction.
“We are looking for new ideas and hence the new coaching line-up.
“Carl has had a lot of playing experience and his sons have been through the Bears’ system.
“He’s very keen to put something back into the club.
“Zane and Will are both younger blokes we’re excited to have as part of the team.”
Mann said after an encouraging 2020 recruitment, new players are still welcome to join the club ahead of the April 18 season kick-off.
“Numbers are always the challenge for sport clubs now but our squad numbers at this stage are pretty good,” Mann said.
“If everyone remains committed we have enough to field three teams with a lot of the older generation looking to line-up in C-grade.
“We’re trying to get more under 19 players involved and we’d like to assist players get to rep level.
“We’re not saying we are going to go out and break any records this year.
“But there is a lot of excitement and enthusiasm among both the new and existing players and we’re confident we can be competitive.”