THE Muswellbrook Rams will turn to their young guns to fire up the Hunter Valley Group 21 Rugby League club in 2019.
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After contesting back-to-back deciders in 2016 and 2017, the Rams suffered a 34-14 loss to eventual premiers Scone Thoroughbreds in last season’s preliminary final.
But, rather than lament that fact, newly-appointed captain-coach Mick Henry is determined to guide the senior outfit back into the top echelon of the competition.
He’s stepping into the role vacated by Troy Hilder, the man who enticed the North Coast representative halfback to the Upper Hunter mid-2018.
“I could only play a handful of games before I broke my collarbone against the Thoroughbreds,” Henry said.
“Unfortunately, I didn’t return in time [the play-offs] to make a difference.
“I honestly thought we were a good chance of winning the premiership, so I’m excited by what occurred last year – and build on that.
“[Muswellbrook] is a good little club, with a great bunch of blokes.
“I’m actually enjoying the extra responsibility.
“Troy thought I’d make a good coach; and it was in the back of my mind, too.
“I’ll admit it’s a massive challenge but I’m keen to take the next step.
“I’m looking forward to it.
“I’d like to create an enjoyable and successful environment at the Rams.”
After losing the likes of Adam Grech, Brady Benkovic, Andrew Pritchard, Jordan Mulherin, Bailey Ellis, Daniel Ellis, Jake Hardy and Jacob Ellis, Henry believes 2019 represents a “good opportunity for the kids”.
“Those departures have left a bit of a hole,” he said.
“However, I’m not too worried.
“We’ll have a strong focus on the younger boys coming through – from under-18s and reserves – and supporting the locals.
“Hopefully, those juniors will put their hands up.
“On top of that, Adam Bartholomew, Ramone Jackson and Keda Moylan, who shone in 2018, are sticking around.
“We’ll also sign up some more guys in the coming weeks, which will boost our depth.”
Henry will boast plenty of support on the sidelines as well, with John and Mick Deakin (reserves), Liam Dunn (under-18s) and Hayden Fox (league tag) appointed mentoring positions.
“I’ve got a great team behind me,” he said.
“Everyone’s pitching in – there’s definitely a good vibe at the club.
“I believe we’re a top three team.
“That’s our goal, to secure a home semi.
“Aberdeen and Scone are both clinical sides; and will be tough.
“Singleton finished fourth [in 2018].
“So, I expect them to be up there on the ladder again, especially with more grunt up front, thanks to Frank-Paul Nu’uausala and Chad Redman.
“As for the Denman Devils, the addition of a few Rams makes them stronger.
“It will also add a bit of spice to the local derby.”