If unbridled passion and enthusiasm counts for anything, Kyneton Football Netball Club is on a winner with new president Hayden Evans at the helm.
That’s the distinct impression I formed after briefly speaking with the Tigers’ new leader after the club’s annual meeting last week.
Evans, 39, is clearly excited about taking on the president’s role, and confident there is a good leadership team to plan for positive outcomes for KFNC in 2021, after 2020 was a wipe-out due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I’ve been a long-time supporter, and a lot of my best mates are involved with the club. I was vice-president some years ago,” he said.
“It’s really important that there’s a united front between senior and junior football, netball, and women’s and girls’ football at Tigerland.”
Evans anticipates the Tigers will focus on a one-club philosophy in the months ahead, for the general betterment of all players wearing the Tigers’ colours.
“We’ll also be placing a major focus on past players and associates being invited back to the club. Kyneton needs to be a highly respected and successful club in the Bendigo League.”
Evans was born in Kyneton and grew up in Trentham, and he has a close affinity with both towns.
“Living near the Kyneton Showgrounds, my mum (Maree) used to take me to see the Tigers play at a very young age … her brothers, Tom and Jack O’Dea were accomplished players with the Tigers.
“Along with my dad (Neil), Tom and Jack were affiliated with the Marist Brothers.
“My heroes were the Tigers’ teams of 1995 and 1997 – just loved the passion of guys like Mark Tunzi, Shane Muir, Terry Mangan and Tony Kelly.”
Evans said he certainly enjoyed playing footy, but admitted his enthusiasm alone did not translate into being a top-liner by any means.
He paid tribute to outgoing president Julie Priestley for her efforts, and is pleased she continues on the committee.
Evans is also pleased that Travis Prendergast is vice-president, Natalie Korinfsky “stepped up” to take on the position of secretary, and David Yunghanns accepted the treasurer’s role.
At the annual meeting, conducted via Zoom, the hard work and dedication by netball director Cara Grambeau over the past four years was acknowledged.
Those elected to the general committee are Nathan Thompson, Charlie Beachey, Julie Priestley, Jodi Prendergast, Jonathan Beachey, Steve Reeves and Sarah Correa.
Evans, who is currently national sales manager for Laserlite Building Products, is also versatile in the entertainment field, having been involved with various bands and sung solo covers at numerous functions.
STRONG COACHING LINEUP
The Tigers are looking forward confidently with a strong football coaching lineup already in place.
Evans said attracting 280-game former AFL player Paul Chapman had generated plenty of interest.
To have Jesse Grae as Reserves coach, and Damien Zanic as U18s coach – and also assistant to Chapman – are further positives.
“Di Guest-Oakley is returning as our 17 and Under netball coach, and her passion, knowledge and commitment should continue a pathway for Kyneton’s junior netballers,” Evans said.
