The 2025 season is just around the corner so EDFL Media will be previewing each club heading into Round One. Next, we chat to Strathmore coach Shaun Bannister who provides some insights on their 2025 campaign.
Coach: Shaun Bannister
PRE-SEASON FOCUS
"Following back-to-back wooden spoons, we knew we had to improve. It starts with a great environment. Once the season ended in 2024, we got to work.
"We realised we needed a new injection of players to complement our strong core list already established. We know we have an incredibly strong 'bottom-up' support structure in place. We believe we’re on the right path in 2025 and beyond."
PLAYERS TO WATCH
"It's extremely tough to narrow it down to one or two players when the entire list has been so impressive. If I had to nominate one, I’d go with Elisha ‘Waino’ Wain for her unbelievable work ethic and leadership. We now have great balance, speed, and strength across all lines."
2025 OUTLOOK
"We can feel the group forming that tight bond with every session we do, especially during the tough sessions in the heat this summer. We want to play a high-intensity style of footy with our girls going into each game believing if they’re at their best, then they’re going to be hard to beat.
"Our core SFC players and our new arrivals continue to challenge each other for pivotal playing positions."
ON THE RECORD WITH SHAUN BANNISTER
Who is the unsung hero at your club?
Three standouts would be John Paone, Kellie Radecki, and Brad Tregear
Player most likely to become a coach one day?
Eloise Freeman and Amy Trindade (they could have my job by Round 5 if we’re not successful).
Biggest pest at the club?
Well we do have a ‘self nominated’ Brad Pitt look-a-like as our runner this season, however he’s more entertaining than a pest.
Who has the quickest set of wheels?
I’ll back in our captain Clara Toperosa to get the nod. Those little legs are like lightning!
Favourite piece of coaching wisdom?
A competitive mindset. Growing up in a household of brothers we were always super competitive. I like that in players also.
Flag tip outside of Strathmore?
Burnside Heights is coming off a very good 2024 season with Keilor Park recruiting well for 2025.
LODGED TRANSFERS
In: Talia Motta (Greenvale), Chloe Oakley (West Preston-Lakeside), Emily Eaves (St Kevins OB), Elisha Wain (Tullamarine), Flavia Rajapakse (Westmeadows), Yasmine Guzel (Westmeadows), Mikayla Plant (Westmeadows), Tacita Siliato (Pascoe Vale), Milla Murphy (Pascoe Vale), Tahlia Plant (Westmeadows), Olivia Hug (Maribyrnong Park), Skyla Cain (Tullamarine), Yasmin Welsford (Essendon Doutta Stars), Amelia Marino (Essendon Doutta Stars), Amy Trindade (Aberfeldie).
Out: Layla Dawkins (West Footscray), Peita Price (Brunswick Mudlarks).
EDFL MEDIA SAYS
Strathmore has been incredibly active this offseason as it looks to not just be competitive again, but make a tilt at another Premier Division promotion. Shaun Bannister has taken over as coach having coached the Under 18.5 side last year, and will no doubt have an eye to the future as he builds the senior squad. With some genuine star power entering the mix combined with continued development of their youth, the Mores will be one to watch in the premiership race.
