Saints using great visual tool for footy education

ST MARY’S has continued its unbeaten run in the AFL Barwon female football Division 1 competition, knocking off fellow premiership contender Grovedale in Round 10.

The Saints, who have a bye this weekend, defeated the Tigers 8.5 (53) to 4.7 (31) at Anthony Costa Oval to make it nine wins on the trot.

When reflecting on the successful start to the season, coach Alf Della Monica talked about making training fun and trying some different strategies, especially in the harsh winter months.

The Saints have two teams this year and are also in the Division 2 competition.

Della Monica said St Mary’s tried to take training indoors where possible and conduct footy education sessions.

He provided insight into the sessions and said the club used a field mat on the floor, which all the players gathered around.

“It’s a little tarp type thing that’s got the oval on it and the positions on it.

“What we can do is actually show them how we want to move the ball or where you position or where you start at a stoppage and things like that.

“I call it my virtual PowerPoint where I can walk around and get people to stand in a position and go ‘Okay, what would you do here?’ and things like that.”

Della Monica said it had been a great tool, especially for the girls that have never played before that are coming through Division 2.

He added the feedback from many players had been positive and they are eager to do more.

In Round 11, Torquay host Lara, Grovedale welcome St Joseph’s, Geelong Ammos have Barwon Heads and Anglesea take on Thomson.