The countdown is on until the opening round of the 2022 Eastern Football League’s senior season, with a number of local clubs eyeing off the grand final.
Taking to the ground in the first round and starting off the club rivalry is Croydon and Lilydale.
With new coach Luke McCormick, Lilydale will be up against a hot contender in Croydon who lost the grand final by 36 points in 2019 and finished fourth on the ladder last year.
Having lost a number of players at the end of 2020, Lilydale has recruited well over the off-season to help build the number of experienced players on the list, hoping to finish better than last year’s second bottom position.
Croydon on the other hand lost a couple of solid scorers most notably Justin Ficorilli who moved to Silvan Football Club.
Over in Mooroolbark, former AFL player Heath Hocking will make his senior debut against Mitcham at Walker Park.
Another big name taking to the field in Montrose, but this time as a coach, is Gary Ayres who brings his AFL and VFL coaching prowess to the first game against East Ringwood.
Many eyes will be watching these legends of the game both on and off the field.
It will be a challenging season for these local clubs and one to watch as these new additions find their feet.
In the Outer East Football Netball League, Mount Evelyn’s seniors won’t take to the field until Sunday 10 April for the first round against Wandin.
