After a big few weeks on the training track, the Bulldogs playing group is starting to take shape under the guidance of new coach Luke Beveridge, who is quickly making himself at home.
With the full list back in training and Beveridge having been in the role for just over three weeks, planning for 2015 is in full swing.
“It’s been a big couple of weeks but we’ve started off pretty well,” Beveridge said last week, speaking at a Bulldogs social club function.
“The boys have come back really healthy… and they’ve had a few really strong weeks of training.”
After a big off-season where the Club gained Tom Boyd, Shane Biggs, Joel Hamling and a handful of young recruits in the NAB AFL National Draft, Beveridge has adapted quickly to his new surrounds.
“It’s our (the coaching group) job to get around them really really quickly and form close bonds.
“The recruiting guys have pretty much thrown to us, it’s our turn now to try and improve them and build capability into them, and not only help them individually but help them form part of a cohesive group.”
Beveridge says he’s happy with that coaching group, and “wasn’t surprised” by the strength of the people around him.
“I’m fortunate to stumble upon a really strong coaching group.
“There’s a mixture of youthful exuberance and a little bit of experience and we need to shape the program and where it’s going.”
That goes for new coach, Daniel Giansiracusa, who retired from the Dogs at the end of 2014 and transferred immediately into a coaching role.
“Gia’s going to coach our forward line next year and Gia’s come out of the game, been a great servant of the club for a long period of time… (and) knows the game like the back of his hand.
“He’s going to be out of his comfort zone a little bit but he’s going to make a great coach. He’s ready to teach it (the game) because he understands it.”
As far as his own coaching style, Beveridge says it’s important to adapt to the group around him.
“I’ve gone on record as saying the best coaches mould their plans around their group and their capabilities.
“I will always believe that.”
