BOND GOES FOR BROKE
BOND University have been elevated to the QWAFL but coach David Ashkar says the situation remains the same going in to another season.
The Bullsharks won last year’s Women’s Football Association (QWFA) division one despite starting the year unsure of the football they could produce.
Ashkar said they now found themselves in similar, mysterious territory as they prepare to test themselves in a tougher competition.
“We are sort of in the same position as last year,” Ashkar said.
“Last year was a bit of unknown and it was about instilling that belief. We knew what kind of structure we were going to have and going up has created the same mindset virtually.
“They are working really hard to make sure they are prepared physically and mentally to be able to cope.
“We really understand where we sit in the scheme of things. It’s going to be a challenge but its exciting.”
Fifteen of Bond’s 2017 team remain on the 36person list with Lions AFLW player Arianna Clarke (midfield), former Geelong VFL player Cassandra Hynes (key forward) and under-18 All-Australian Lauren Bella (ruck) among the recruits.
Ashkar said the team had focused on getting bigger and stronger, something that hasn’t been an issue thanks to the elite facilities on offer at Bond University. The team has had access to dietitians, physiotherapists, GPS analysis and the recovery, altitude and gyms that have been used by the likes of NRL side Gold Coast Titans and AFL’s Suns.
Captain Kate Reynolds said the Bullsharks had a culture of hard work.
“It’s definitely a big step up and I think it will be a challenge for us,” Reynolds said. “We might have all new players and amazing talent but we can’t just expect anything will come easy.”