The Boroondara - Carey Eagles senior men’s team has continued its meteoric rise in Victorian football by clinching their third successive State League championship this year.
The Eagles ensured their hat-trick of promotions a full three weeks ahead of the State League 2 competition’s end. This means the club has progressed from State League 4 to State League 1 in the past three seasons and coach Manny Koutroulis is keen for more of the same.
“We stuck to a simple 3-point plan that targeted upholding our club culture, unity of purpose and adherence to the training processes and disciplines that create a winning environment,” Koutroulis said.
The last few games of the 2019 season provided Koutroulis the opportunity to rest some players and provide the club’s younger talent an opportunity to build their experience into senior ranks.
“A few months ago, the Board and I turned our mind to the capabilities we require for 2020. I’ve made my expectations clear to the players,” he said.
“I’ve told them if they are looking to consolidate in 2020, then I’m the wrong person to work with. I’m here with a focus on the title and will work very hard to achieve this. The expectations are crystal clear.”
More broadly, Koutroulis is a strong supporter of creating powerful emotional
connections with football through positive and memorable football experiences at the club.
He is proud of the culture at Boroondara Eagles Football Club, and the strong links between juniors and seniors to help achieve this objective.
“The club has 800 juniors. A lot of my senior players (men and women) are employed to coach juniors, so that’s a strong model,” he said.
“When I speak about culture, I like to have senior players that work hard for the club not only as players, but also as mentors for younger players.
“I like that a lot of the players don’t just come in, train and leave. I like that they come on other nights and help the club and create strong positive experiences for the kids. They are much more than just players – we are much more than just a football club,” Koutroulis said.