The 2025 season is just around the corner so EDFL Media will be previewing each club heading into Round One. Next, we chat to Oak Park coach Todd Clark who provides some insights on their 2025 campaign.
2024: 5th (9W, 7L, 97.34%)
Coach: Todd Clark
PRE-SEASON FOCUS
"After a year of learning in Division One, we’ve been working on our defensive craft. There were times last year where we got opened up on transition, so focusing on understanding the roles that must be played is critical to improve in this area."
LIST SHAPE
"We're happy with our recruiting, being competitive in Division One we were able to focus on key targets to improve us structurally. The new players have fit in seamlessly, and I’m really happy to have a number of ex-Oak Park juniors back in the fold.
"All of our recruits are either ex-Oak Park juniors or mates of our core group that wanted to come across, so the connectivity was already in play."
PLAYERS TO WATCH
"Jedd Taylor continues to raise the bar, and Max Gleeson has performed his role effortlessly and still has great upside.
"With the inclusion of Josh Hotchkin and Lachie Stredwick, I’m excited about what they bring with both their skillsets and leadership."
2025 OUTLOOK
"We want to improve the effectiveness of our game plan."
ON THE RECORD WITH TODD CLARK
Who is the unsung hero at the club?
Lindsay Warway.
MVP of the gym?
Danny Rajab.
Player most likely to become a coach one day?
Rory MacGregor.
Who has the quickest set of wheels?
Archie Payne.
Who’s Mr. Reliable week in and week out?
Brad Cox.
Favourite piece of coaching wisdom?
Focus on what you can control.
What match are you most looking forward to in 2025 and why?
With our new lights, the two night games when we host Craigieburn and Taylors Lakes are going to be very exciting for the club.
Flag tip outside of Oak Park?
Hillside.
LODGED TRANSFERS
In: Jack Noonan (St Bernards), Tyler McDonald (Shepparton Swans), Camryn Moloney (Preston Bullants), Jacob Atkins (Therry Penola), Ryan Sprunt (Waaia), Carter Sandilands (Coburg Districts), Roman Gallivan (Coburg Districts), Errol McConnell (Pascoe Vale), Lachlan Stredwick (Pascoe Vale), Finn Dolan (Therry Penola), Michael Dalrymple (East Keilor), Joshua Hotchkin (Aberfeldie), Jedd Clothier (Narooma Lions), Adam Del Busso (Pascoe Vale), Will Bell (Maribyrnong Park).
Out: Nathan Gioffre (South Morang), Eamon Whelan (Romsey), Jack Kennedy (Lalor), Hirsi Twomey (Lalor), Corey Field (Albanvale).
EDFL MEDIA SAYS
The 2024 season was a big success for Oak Park, becoming the first men's team to play finals in Division One after being promoted from Division Two. Wanting to build on those strong foundations, the Kangaroos have quickly become one of the premiership favourites after an incredible recruiting drive and good retention. Pascoe Vale captain Lachie Stredwick was the headliner joined by Pacco teammates Errol McConnell and Adam Del Busso, as well as Aberfeldie ruck Josh Hotchkin. With some top flight experience joining an already competitive side, Oak Park will be one of the teams to beat.
Ladder Prediction: Double chance.
