Altona Seagulls Focus on the Upsides Despite Mid-Table Hockey Standings
The Altona Seagulls men's hockey team are maintaining a positive outlook despite a somewhat inconsistent run in the Hockey Victoria premier league. Currently residing in seventh place after 12 rounds, the Seagulls have experienced a mix of victories and defeats, but coach Greg Drake remains optimistic about their progress.
“We’re tracking okay,” Drake stated, emphasizing the team’s commitment to learning and improvement throughout the season. While the league table might not reflect a dominant performance, Drake highlights several key areas where the Seagulls are showing promise. A particular focus has been on developing younger players and integrating them into the senior squad. This long-term strategy, although potentially impacting short-term results, is seen as crucial for the club's future success.
“The development of our younger players is a priority,” Drake explained. “We’re giving them opportunities to gain valuable experience at this level, and they’re responding well. It’s a great learning curve for them, and it’s fantastic for the club to see them stepping up.”
The Seagulls’ recent games have presented challenges, exposing areas where the team needs to strengthen. Drake acknowledged that consistency has been an issue, with periods of strong play interspersed with moments of vulnerability. “We need to be more consistent in our performance,” he admitted. “There are times when we play exceptionally well, but we need to maintain that level throughout the entire match.”
One aspect Drake is particularly pleased with is the team's resilience. Despite setbacks, the Seagulls have consistently shown a determination to fight for every point. This fighting spirit, he believes, is a testament to the team’s character and a key ingredient for future success.
Looking ahead, the Seagulls face a demanding schedule of games against some of the league’s top teams. Drake is confident that his team can rise to the occasion and continue to build on their progress. “We know we have tough games coming up, but we’re prepared to work hard and give it our best shot,” he said. “We’re focused on improving our game week by week and putting in strong performances.”
The Altona Seagulls’ commitment to player development, coupled with their resilience and determination, suggests that despite their current position, they are a team to watch in the Hockey Victoria premier league. Their positive attitude and focus on the long-term goals will be vital as they navigate the remaining rounds of the competition. Fans can expect to see continued growth and improvement from this talented squad as the season progresses. The club is actively encouraging local hockey enthusiasts to come down and support the team – every cheer helps!
