With some big-name recruits, the Pumas want to make a splash in 2013.
Springwood coach Tony King expects the Pumas to make major leaps in the 2013 Allied Pickfords Cup.
King, who took over in round nine last year, led his first pre-season at the club this year, and said one of the major challenges was altering the players’ mindset.
“A lot of them have been playing senior footy and winning three games a year. They’ve probably got a losing mentality,” King said.
“We need to get that out of them.”
King said changing the Pumas’ image was also crucial for bringing greater talent to the club.
“We’ve been a bit scraggy. We’ve got to try and lift our image a bit,” he said.
“We’re trying to clean up those kinds of things for long-term change.”
Springwood has snagged some talent in the past year, headed by former Brisbane Lions player, Albert Proud.
Proud comes to the Pumas after parting ways with Mt Gravatt midway through last year.
King said having a former AFL player at the club was a great boon for Springwood.
“Albert Proud hasn’t missed a beat, with his AFL experience,” he said.
“He’s got very good football knowledge and the young group look up to him as well.”
Springwood also recruited ruckman-forward Ethan Reading and utility Greg Friis from the Vultures during last season, and King is looking forward to a big contribution from the trio this season.
Ruckman Blake Wallis also has a full pre-season under his belt and should be important for the Pumas this year.
King, who has been involved with some of the players right through from under-10s, said aside from the three major signings, local talent would be the key for Springwood’s finals chances.
“It’s a young, enthusiastic group and the Home grown group is quite strong,” King said.
“We’ve got a good base of talent and it’s just a matter of keeping our heads right.”
Springwood gets its first taste of proper season action against Sandgate at Lemke Rd.
Springwood Ins 2013
Aaron Richardson
Dominic Nash
Jake Furfaro
Rhan Hooper
Vaai Vaai
Brenban Iles
Outs
Matthew Hockley – Western Magpies
Johnathon Frazer – Robina
For the full fixture, click here
