The 2024 season is just around the corner so EDFL Media will be previewing each club heading into Round One. First, we chat to St Albans coach Zammy Muhtari who provides some insights on their 2024 campaign.
2023: 4th (12W, 6L, 121.16%)
Coach: Zammy Muhtari (second season in the EDFL)
PRE-SEASON FOCUS
"The area of improvement for us this preseason has been around our fitness and the development of our youth coming through."
LIST SHAPE
"We're happy with how we've recruited but also the hard work the lads have been putting in, improving each player on our list is a goal we've set and are happy with its progress."
PLAYERS TO WATCH
"Brandon Coletta has been a great asset for the group and we're looking forward to watching Brandon bring that experience and knowledge out on game day.
"James Mason is one to keep an eye on from our 18s program in 2022. He had an interrupted 2023 so we're looking forward to seeing what the youngster brings in 2024."
2024 OUTLOOK
"We will look at improving from last season, the difference now is that we have a season in the EDFL in the bank which will hold us in good stead!"
ON THE RECORD WITH ZAMMY MUHTARI
Connection was something you were working on this time last year, how do you find that connection now with minimal list turnover and some events in 2023 that would have galvanised the group?
We have a great group of guys that have built a strong connection within our club, players are always looking at ways to drive the standards to the highest level which is supported by our coaching group.
You were hampered by injuries in the Elimination Final after an impressive first season in the league, did you identify any other factors that hurt your chances of going deeper into finals?
Not really, injuries are part of the game so we just had to adapt. We take some good learnings from 2023 which will allow us to build in 2024.
Biggest pest at the club?
There are a few to be honest, I can’t really point one out (Eugene).
Who might be viewed as the coach's pet?
Brodie Lyons-Jones.
One opposition player you'd love on your side?
Ibby Taha (West Coburg).
Flag tip outside of St Albans?
Maribyrnong Park.
LODGED TRANSFERS
In: Zach Hijazi (Essendon Doutta Stars), Brandon Coletta (East Keilor), Tyler Bell (Shepparton), James Krstin (Hillside), Jake Vicic (Hillside), Bryce Hindell (Melton Centrals), Chris Floros (Caroline Springs).
Out: Chris Pazsa (Hillside Superules), Jalen Asani Davis (Burnside Heights), Yianni Tsasouris (Melton Centrals).
EDFL MEDIA SAYS
St Albans enjoyed a solid first season in the EDFL with their on-field performances propelling them into finals action. Although they were eliminated in the first final, they have a stable list and the recruitment of Brandon Coletta was a great one. They're still hoping they can add Hillside pair Jackson Volpato and Alex Tsia to their list whose transfers were declined, but there's no reason they can't go deep into finals with the cattle they have.
Ladder Prediction: Will be in double chance territory (top three).
2024 FIXTURE
