Bottrell to focus on CBC

by LES EVERETT

TWO weeks ago Tom Bottrell was happily living the life of the former footballer. A few games in the country this year with Donnybrook had confirmed that his wonky knee wasn't up to it anymore and the 200-game South Fremantle player had hung up his boots.

New CBC A-grade amateurs coach Tom Bottrell. Photo by Les Everett

Then out of the the blue came an approach from CBC amateurs identity Joe Lawrence. Bottrell was interviewed for the A-grade team's vacant coaching position on a Monday evening and offered the job the next day.

"It was strange," he said, "I hadn't even thought about coaching and now I'm as keen as mustard, I can't wait."

A product of Cockburn JFC before spending almost every spare moment at the Bulldogs, Bottrell has had virtually no contact with the amateurs. However, he understands that what works in the WAFL won't necessarily be the way to go for the WAAFL. "I'll want to have a disciplined team but it's fine line," Bottrell said, "a lot of players play amoes for a reason."

After playing under coaches like John Todd, Tony Micale, Peter Sumich and John Northey, the new coach has picked up plenty of ideas. However the approach of Micale appealed most. "I enjoyed playing accountable football so Tony really suited me," Bottrell said, "he had a way of getting you so focused and intense. I found him brilliant. "I'll need to find the balance between going to that level and making sure the players are happy and having fun."

Bottrell is already on the lookout for new players: "I'm told we have a pretty good list, we can't pay anyone so any new players will have to be looking to play to enjoy it."

Former South team mates Zane Parsons and Brodie Kuyer are on the new CBC coach's wish-list but he's already received a solid shepherd from another old Bulldog. "Peter Worsfold [coach of Donnybrook] called and said he's tying up his uncontracted players," Bottrell laughed. One of the players committed to Donnybrook is South Fremantle games record holder Marty Atkins - look out for a tussle for his services in 2006. Bottrell ruled out being a playing coach, and not just because of his knee. "I used to be so focused during games that I couldn't remember what happened. Sometimes I'd get an award and I'd say, 'did I play well?'

"Imagine me trying to play and coach."

Players interested in having a run with CBC in 2005 should call Brad Grant on 0417 931 659.

From the Fremantle Herald.

Disclaimer