The 2025 season is just around the corner so EDFL Media will be previewing each club heading into Round One. Next, we chat to Keilor Park coach Colby Blyth who provides some insights on their 2025 campaign.
2024: 11th, Division One (1W, 15L, 40.18%)
Coach: Colby Blyth
PRE-SEASON FOCUS
"We've been focusing on creating an environment that is enjoyable and sustainable whilst upholding strong standards.
"Coming off last year and being relegated, we recognised there were many areas on and off the field that needed adjustments. We understand last year was a difficult period for everyone involved at Keilor Park, so we have implemented a variety of strategies to give ourselves the opportunity to learn and grow."
LIST SHAPE
"Recruiting in our position can be difficult. Having the year we did, it's easy to walk away. I'm grateful that we have an amazing core of players that have stood by each other and committed to this season.
"Recruiting isn't the only area we need to improve, but we have recruited talented, skillful, and excited players that fit within our age demographic. This provides us with opportunities for future growth."
PLAYERS TO WATCH
"I can't single out any one player that has had a strong pre-season, every single player has had a strong pre-season."
CLUB INITIATIVES & ACTIVITIES
"We have applied various activities which are unique to create a stronger connection between the players. The club is also heavily involved with the community so that we can further progress our junior program."
2025 OUTLOOK
"We haven't set any goals. We have set standards. Standards are better alone for making a change."
ON THE RECORD WITH COLBY BLYTH
Who is the unsung hero at the club?
All the volunteers and staff that do all the little things. It takes a lot to organise and run a football club so enough can't be said about the people involved.
MVP of the gym?
Arnold in his prime.
Player most likely to become a coach one day?
Anyone that wants a challenge.
Who has the quickest set of wheels?
We have a few boys that have Potenza Adrenalins.
Favourite piece of coaching wisdom?
Great moments are born from great opportunity.
Who’s one opposition player you’d love on your side?
I love everyone on my side so there's no more love to give on any other player.
What match are you most looking forward to in 2025 and why?
I'm looking forward to every game I get to coach Keilor Park.
Flag tip outside of Keilor Park?
Too open to make a prediction.
LODGED TRANSFERS
In: Jake Ugrenovic (East Sunbury), Jayden Waldron (East Sunbury), James Woerndle (Aberfeldie), Mark Jamar (Simpson), Ryan Andrews (PEGS), Joel O'Sullivan (Edithvale-Aspendale), Aaron Davidson (South Mornington), Liam Proh (Burnside Heights), Ali Maghnie (Mill Park), Tristan Russell (Caroline Springs), Mohammed Awad (Glenroy), Edward Proh (Burnside Heights), Frank Holzer (Melton South), Matt Brown (Taylors Lakes), Damian Sawdy (Taylors Lakes), Adam Marturano (PEGS), George Guicas (Hillside), Aiden Tilley (Aberfeldie), Louis Alexopoulos (Aberfeldie), Angelo Mercado (Aberfeldie), Cameron Kennedy (Hillside), Corey Dennehy (Canning South Perth), Dean Broumis (Jacana), Luke Kilty (Maribyrnong Park), Nicholas Kilty (Maribyrnong Park), Jake Findlay (Point Cook Centrals), Xavier Nesci (East Keilor), Nicholas Nesci (East Keilor), Callum Brown (Aberfeldie), Bailey Pickering (Keilor).
Out: Hunter Petch (Greenvale), Brent Cooper (Gisborne Masters), Oscar Sharpe (Sunbury), Joshua Debono (North Sunshine), Brock Jacobsen (Keilor), John Navara (Maribyrnong Park), Riley Bentley (Coburg Districts), Flynn Harvey (Therry Penola), Dimitrios Guicas (Thomastown), Daniel Mifsud (Coburg Districts), James Mifsud (Coburg Districts), Angus Price (Rupertswood), Riley Bartolo (Sunbury Kangaroos), Daniel Ruscigno (Aberfeldie), Anthony Franzone (Sunshine Heights), Jordan Filakis (Parkside).
EDFL MEDIA SAYS
The Devils are back in Division Two after a one-win 2024 season, and will no doubt be keen to return to some on-field success. Colby Blyth has taken over as senior coach after spending time as Leigh Coles' assistant last season, and has a clear view on ensuring the sustainability of the playing group. Like Colby being unable to single out a premiership prediction, it's hard to place Keilor Park having had such a big turnover of its senior list, but the Devils will certainly be competitive again.
Ladder Prediction: Mid-table.
