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Sport

Young Hoppers keen to bounce into exciting future

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Celebrations: Chase Strawhorn. Photo by Holly Curtis

FAST FACTS

COACH: HARRY HALEY 2022 FINISH: 12TH (4-10) 2022 BEST-AND-FAIREST: TOM MCKIMMIE 2022 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: CHASE STRAWHORN (31) HOME GROUND: RENNIE RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: GRASSHOPPERS

PLAYER CHANGES

Ins: Mark McQualter (Berrigan)

Outs: None

Season 2023 will be all about gradual improvement at Rennie Recreation Reserve.

A list packed to the brim with exciting and enthusiastic youngsters, the Hoppers do lack a bit when it comes to senior football experience, but when you look at the big picture the spine of a finals contender is beginning to emerge.

Harry Haley enters his second season as senior coach, and will continue on his developmental strategy that has seen him become a much-loved figure at the club.

The growth of young stars Chase Strawhorn and Tom McKimmie will add another exciting layer for Rennie fans as they head to games with the hope of seeing a consistent brand of footy.

“I am definitely confident we’ll improve and that is our main goal,” Haley said.

“Last year our depth was tested a bit with injuries, but as a result we saw a lot of younger guys get senior experience.

“We’ll probably be a bit more defensive-minded in the way we play and we’ll look to get oppositions on the rebound with those younger legs.

“As long as we play a consistent brand of footy that will put us in good stead moving forward.”