As part of a new coaching and development strategy, Woodend Cricket Club is excited to announce that experienced all-rounder Josh Eastley will be head coach for next season.
And the club will have an international player in its ranks. Medium-fast seam bowler Joe Monk is coming from England to join the Hawks as assistant coach.
Woodend fielded four senior sides and had a strong junior program last season.
Club president Daniel Heaney said there were very positive things happening with the club, with everyone looking forward to 2024-2025.
Eastley is no stranger to WCC, having scored more than 2000 runs and taken more than 120 wickets.
Over the past five years he has gained considerable experience as an assistant coach with several clubs.
Eastley played with West Bendigo A-grade in the Emu Valley Cricket Association assisting with training and player development. He was club champion and won the bowling award.
He then joined Buckley Park in the North West Metropolitan competition, securing an A-grade premiership.
Then there was a stint as assistant coach to Elliot Massina with Guildford in the Castlemaine District Cricket Association. The club reached one and two-day grand finals.
Heaney said the club was working with external coaches Brett Cavigan and Gavin Mackay to support/mentor the head coach throughout the season.
Developing a coaching plan, working on standards and behaviours, technical coaching and training guidance are all part of the steps forward.
There will also be support from other experienced players/coaches within the club.
MONK IS KEEN
Joe Monk is a keen and qualified coach looking forward to joining Woodend Cricket Club.
He has been playing for Oswestry Cricket Club in the Shropshire County Cricket Club (Premier Division).
Monk previously impressed with 107 wickets at an average of 12 for Newton Cricket Club.
Prior to that he played for Welshpool Cricket Club, claiming 109 wickets at an average of 17.
He is coming to Woodend with his girlfriend, Ashlyn.
Heaney said the strategy with the juniors at the club would also include ‘Coach the Coach’ sessions with the external coaches during the season.
“I’m really excited to have Brett and Gavin working with our junior players and coaches to develop the next generations of Woodend cricketers.
“I see this being an absolute game changer for our junior development program,” the president concluded.
