BURSTING BUBBLE

Q Obviously we are at the start of a new road for Cairns FC. How long will it take to establish this pathway?

A Two to three years. You look at the local standards, and I’m not trying to denigrate the local standards, but when you’re in a bubble you don’t get the chance to look outside and compare it. At least the NPL gives us something to compare to the southern clubs. If we only look very insular then the expectations remain minimal. If we keep exposing them to outside influences where there’s improvement in players around them, the standard of competition they play and the quality of coaching is imperative, so it’s important we give them the opportunities to compare and they can actually see where they really are in the pecking order. There’s some remarkable talent in country areas.

Q There’s a representative program FNQ Football is launching. What is Cairns FC’s part?

A If you like it’s an extended player development program. As players come in, we’ll see them over a longer period of time and then get to understand what the players are like and it’s not just about their technical ability, but what they’re like as a person. If they don’t fit the dynamic of a team, you don’t include them. If they’re selfish and not working as a team, maybe you’re better off without them. So this gives them an opportunity to work them twice a week and watch them in game situations. There’s opportunities at two tiers where players are able to aspire and develop.