ALTHOUGH he’s a relative newcomer to the club, Muswellbrook Rams president Stephen Lamb is surrounding himself with a number of familiar faces in his quest for success.
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After gaining many years’ experience within rugby league circles on the Central Coast, he linked up with the Hunter Valley Group 21 organisation in 2017.
And, following a 12-month “apprenticeship”, Lamb was quick to put up his hand for the top position, with the help of senior vice-president Chris Dengate, junior vice-president Marcus Bower and secretary Liam Dunn – three stalwarts in the Rams’ ranks.
He takes over the reins from Kurt Dial, who stepped down from the role.
“I know I’ve got big shoes to fill, but I’m looking forward to the challenge,” Lamb said.
“Even the executive’s quite excited by the year in front of us.
“It’s our job to build on the feats of the past three seasons (which included two grand final appearances).
“We’re also determined to bridge the gap between the club and the community – that’s very important.
“I’d like to see the seniors more involved with the juniors, too.
“We want people to be proud to represent the Rams.
“However, a lot of time has to be put in over the next month or so, especially while we’re signing players up.
“We’re hoping to kick off training in the second week of January.”
The first piece of the puzzle is complete with playmaker Mick Henry on board as the captain-coach.
“We thought we’d go in a different direction,” Lamb said.
“Mick is a great young footballer, who adds a lot to the team.
“Muswellbrook hasn’t had one [captain-coach] for a few seasons.
“So, it’s something newish for the Rams.
“The Deakins, John and Mick, will oversee the reserves again, while Liam [Dunn] and Hayden Fox are mentoring the under-18s and league tag respectively.
“Hayden, the 2017 premiership-winning coach, is returning after a year off and Liam’s had a lot to do with the juniors in recent times.
“It’s a great line-up.
“Our ultimate goal is to win the competition, but you need to play finals footy first.”