Stingrays’ fresh outlook
Three new coaches to develop sides
THE Gold Coast Stingrays are hoping to put a barb through the Sunbowl chances of rival clubs after announcing their new coaching line-up .
David Hill returns to coach the men’s side after they crashed out in the semis last season chasing an eighth title in a row.
Three new faces headline the other divisions with club stalwart Lance Tongakilo to coach the youth and junior divisions, vice-president Colt Isham taking on the colts and Ian Richardson set to lead the women’s side.
The colts have been one of the shining lights of Queensland’s most successful gridiron club, winning the past four Sunbowl championships.
“I’m hoping to continue on with what the colts have done and keep up the winning mentality,” Isham said.
Isham, who has been part of the club since 2016, hopes to bring some “American flair’’ to training and help fast-track the next generation of local talent.
“When I got here, I noticed a big difference in coaching so I want to bring elements of what I learnt in the States to training and progress the talent here,” he said.
“It’s quite laid-back in Australia and player development happens a bit differently so there’s some things I think could help advance and develop the kids faster.
“There’s heaps of great talent on the Gold Coast so I want to help them get over to the States and make it big there,” he said.
Tongakilo, who has played football in the US, France and Sweden as well as for the Stingrays, hopes he can impart his knowledge on the youngest generation.
“My experience means that I’ve been able to play under a number of different coaches and learn a lot from them so I want to work on breaking down the game and the knowledge the kids need into a simpler form,” he said.
“I want to focus on teaching the game and making sure everyone enjoys the game and if we come away with the championship title then that’s even better.”