Professional approach

FORMER Orange junior Mick Ostini is aiming to bring a professional approach on and off the field to Orange CYMS, after being announced as coach for the club's planned return to Group 10 premier league next season.

Ostini, who played first grade for South Sydney, Sydney Roosters and Balmain Tigers during his seven years in Sydney, said he would base his squad around a few high profile signings and local players.

"We are currently in talks with a few high profile players," Ostini said in Orange yesterday. "But we will mainly focus on local players and have the more experienced players help direct the team around the field."

Ostini played his junior football in Orange before leaving for St Gregory's College in Campbelltown, where he was part of the Commonwealth Bank Cup victory in 1993 as captain.

During his time in Sydney, Ostini played more than 40 first grade games and was named Penrith's under 21 player of the year in 1994 and South Sydney's rookie of the year in 1997.

His playing days were cut short after having operations on both knees and he has lived and worked in Mudgee for the past two years.

"I want to bring a professional attitude on and off the field and lift the profile of the club," he said.

He said the current batch of CYMS players, who played in the second division competition this season, would be welcome at the club.

"The local players who stuck with CYMS (this year) will get first crack because we'll be looking for a lot of local talent," he said.

Ostini will move to Orange to take a job as manager of Orange PCYC.

He said his role at the PCYC will benefit CYMS and the Orange community.

Ostini said next year would be a big season for CYMS, who will celebrate its 60th anniversary.

"The local guys will be excited to have the club back and I think the ex-players and old boys will really get behind us," he said.

The new CYMS mentor said there was a possibility of playing South Sydney in a trial in Orange next year.

CYMS expect to begin pre-season training after Christmas and will now be recruiting players.