The 2024 season is just around the corner so EDFL Media will be previewing each club heading into Round One. next, we chat to Essendon Doutta Stars coach Marie Napoli who provides some insights on their 2024 campaign.
2023: 3rd, Division One Premiers, (10W, 3L, 263.52%)
Coach: Marie Napoli
PRE-SEASON FOCUS
"Stepping up into Premier Division, our focus has been on intensity at training and training the way we want to play, while supporting each other and creating a positive environment for all. Fitness is always a focus – it definitely helped us out in the grand final last year."
PLAYERS TO WATCH
"I believe we have a strong side of players with all types of strengths. Harmony Mitsos has improved her fitness over summer and will prove to be a handful in the middle. Meg Runting is also strong and fit and provides that important run out of the middle. Jessie Hulett will do a lot of damage if she is let loose. A dark horse for mine is a returning player in Aleesha Hobbs."
2024 OUTLOOK
"Back to back is my goal as senior coach. Overall for the team and the footy club our goal is to be competitive and not just make up the numbers.
"With two teams now we are focused on building a very strong culture and creating an environment that keeps players at the club and attracts players to the club."
RAPID FIRE WITH MARIE NAPOLI
Shot after the siren to win, who do you want kicking it?
Someone with a lot of experience... perhaps 35 years!
Biggest pest at the club?
Jazz would have to be biggest pest – always late and always hungry!
Who might be viewed as the coach's pet?
Tricky! Probably not viewed but Caitlin McGrath knows every word to every song so she's definitely one of my favourites!
Who’s the pre-game DJ? Are they any good?
Meg and she is TERRIBLE! It's like walking into a rave at 9am. I have to beg for an '80s song!
Which side are you looking forward to playing the most and why?
I like to challenge ourselves with the best, so we're very much looking forward to playing Oak Park and Aberfeldie.
EDFL MEDIA SAYS
They were the form team heading into the Division One grand final day and Essendon Doutta Stars enjoyed a strong win to earn their spot in the top flight. They'll enter the 2024 season with two sides to assist with their depth in the step up. It won't take long until they test themselves against the reigning premiers in Oak Park when they host the Kangaroos and unfurl their Division One flag at Nipper Jordan Oval in Round 2.
2024 FIXTURE
