Romsey Bowling Club is looking to make every post a winner in season 2020-2021, with the recent appointment of a first-ever club coach seen as a positive step forward.
Membership has increased into the mid-40s, and the club is seeking additional members, either experienced or new bowlers.
“We’re really pleased that Garry Templar has joined our club as senior coach. He’s a very experienced bowler with coaching credentials and will be able to guide our four members who recently completed the Bowls Victoria coaching course,” club chairman John Beaumont said.
“Overall, our aim is to be more competitive.”
The Redbacks intend to field five teams – three Saturday and two midweek in the Central Highlands pennant.
With Templar at the helm, and qualified coaches readily available, the club is looking to improve the standard of bowls played by its teams and members.
“There’s a good, friendly atmosphere at the club and locals across all age groups are encouraged to give bowls a go,” CEO-treasurer Graeme Cuthbert said.
Saturday social bowls is already being played at Romsey, observing COVID-19 distancing regulations, with good attendances despite the cold conditions.
MAXIMISE POTENTIAL
Garry Templar has a long-time sporting involvement and a very competitive outlook. Templar says he is “as keen as ever” both as a player and coach. He wants to see Romsey’s bowlers become more consistent and achieve their full potential, while enjoying the sport as well.
It’s something of a homecoming as Templar grew up in Romsey and played football and cricket with the local clubs, before going to Melbourne and pursuing business interests.
He’s also coached Romsey football and cricket teams, and admits bowls wasn’t a natural transition.
“A mate invited me along to bowls at Essendon, and I got hooked,” he said.
He quickly adapted to the sport and has played for 20 years, the last 16 as skipper.
Templar moved to live in Lancefield several years ago, and had a brief stint with the Tigers, before coaching and playing at Gladstone Park and then Craigieburn bowling clubs. He’s also played for years in the strong RSL bowls competition at Glenroy, and in many tournaments.
“With less travelling I’ll have more time to devote to bowls at Romsey, and everyone is hopeful the season can go ahead,” he added.
The club’s very popular AFL Grand Final Eve fours tournament is in doubt, due to the COVID-19 situation and uncertainty about the AFL Grand Final date.
Romsey will hold a midweek fours tournament on Thursday, February 11, sponsored by TJ Scott and Son, funeral directors of Kyneton and Gisborne.
Friday evening barefoot bowls will again be on the agenda early in the new year.
