Coach’s legacy lives on

Arrowsmith lauds club

I think Willowburn have always been a good example of how a club should be run Gordon Arrowsmith

He spent just two seasons at the club but Gordon Arrowsmith’s Willowburn legacy will never be forgotten.

The highly regarded coach took the Magpies to Queensland football’s promised land, the XXXX League, in 1995 after earning promotion with a second division premiership win the year prior.

Up against some of Queensland’s top teams packed full of elite players Willowburn were a competitive outfit thanks to their “attitude” according to Arrowsmith.

“I thought we were a very good team,” Arrowsmith said.

“We had some very skilful players but it was the players’ attitude that was our biggest strength.

“All of them were very positive, passionate and committed they were quite professional in that regard and it made a difference when we played.”

The Magpies won the second division minor premiership and grand final in 1994 to earn the right to play along football’s elite.

Little changed on the field after promotion with Arrowsmith sticking to the system that earned them success.

“We played a standard 4-4-2,” he said.

“I’ve always believed in keeping football simple.

“Playing to your strengths and fitting a system to your players – not trying to squeeze your players into a certain system.

“We had some very good defenders, quick midfielders and goal hungry forwards.

“Beyond that defence was very important.

“If you can keep the opposition out you’re an even money chance to win the game.”

Arrowsmith will return to Toowoomba on Saturday May 4 to take part in Willowburn’s 75th anniversary celebrations.

While his time with the Magpies was brief he said he still held the club in high regard.

“I think Willowburn have always been a good example of how a club should be run,” he said.

“Even at their peak the club has never been aloof or thought it was any better than other clubs in Toowoomba.

“Everyone is committed, from the players to the administrators, to making the club better.”

Legendary National Soccer League coach and Australian international Frank Farina will be a guest speaker at the club’s special celebrations.

For more information, visit the club’s Facebook page.