ADMITTING his side was a little “overawed” by the occasion in 2013, Western Rams under 16 coach Cameron Greenhalgh says a better preparation will ensure his side doesn’t t encounter the same butterflies again.
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Greenhalgh’s under 16s went into the championship at Newcastle fairly confident last season, but lost their first game as they struggled to handle the “step up a level” against the best up-and-coming juniors in the bush.
Back to mentor the side in its second year battling the regional country championships, the Forbes-based coach believes an extra game will benefit their preparation.
“The level of football is probably up on what the boys are used to in Group 11 and Group 10, it’s a step up. I think if we can get a good trial against a quality opposition and gel a little bit more it’ll go a long way come time for the championship,” he said.
Highlighting the naturally ability in the age group, Greenhalgh said the benefit of representative football at an under 16 level was fantastic for the region.
“I’m a big believer in this program,” he said.
“I can see a lot of the kids developing as better footballers and country football in the 16 and 18 age group has gone up another two or three levels.”
