Football
31 March, 2025
Recruits give Demons extra drive
Their campaign for the premiership might have had an early ending last season but the co-coaches of Laharum's senior football side say they are absolutely aspiring to make the big dance this year.
The Demons finished fourth in the regular season last year before losing the second elimination final to Pimpinio by 16 points, ending their season.
But this season is all about continuing to look forward, and with some big recruits Robbie Miller and Shan Argall are optimistic about a better performance from their side in 2025.
"We have recruited well, we have recruited some good ball users and also speed to our side, which is something we chatted about in the off-season as to what we could potentially target," Miller said.
"We haven't just gone out and recruited anyone and everyone; we have looked for guys who will fit into our club and represent us well."
Argall added that in previous years the Demons had been missing speed on the outside of the contest.
"We certainly have picked up on that and quality ball users so we should see an improvement in that area," he said.
The Demons have added the likes of Brodie Mines, who is expected to be an asset in the side's forward/midfield rotation, and Tarkyn Benbow, from Kalkee, who will bring needed endurance and speed.
They've also welcomed Hayden Kemp, from Horsham, as well as a familiar player in Todd Heynen, who was at the club from 2015 to 2017.
"Last year we established ourselves as a well-drilled side that got the most out of our list," Argall said.
"This year we feel like that list has had a growth in the players we have retained as they continue their development but we have also added in some top-tier players as well.
"I think if you are not trying to win a premiership, if you are in that finals squad, then you are selling yourself short."
Both coaches flagged Josh Hutchinson as a player to watch this season.
The 17-year-old played a handful of games for the seniors last season and has continued to develop and mature as a player during the off-seson, according to his coaches.
"For a kid, he is an incredible contested mark and is a booming kick," Argall said.