By Andrew Wiles – @andrewjwiles
2014 season wrap
The Wilston Grange Gorillas finished the 2014 home and away season in fourth position, with six wins and eight losses, seeing them face off against third place Yeronga South Brisbane in an elimination final. Unfortunately for the Gorillas, when the final siren rang they were 14 points behind, ending their year. 2014 was a positive year on the whole for the Gorillas, but they were unable to bridge the gap to the top three teams.
Who’s in?
Wilston Grange have added some experience to the line up in 2015 through Heidi Thompson, who has moved over from Yeronga South Brisbane, as well as Jenna White, from Griffith Moorooka. Both were members of the 2014 representative program, and took part in the SUNS Women v Lions Women match in June. After dedicating much of last year body sculpting, Caylaraye Riley will return to the Gorillas lineup in 2015.
Who’s out?
As is the case with most clubs, the football circle of life has taken place at PBI Oval. Karen Byrne has retired from the game; Kara Fabian is on the long-term injury list, and Aimee Sewell has moved to Townsville to pursue a career with the Queensland Police. All will be missed from the Gorillas lineup in 2015.
Pre-season focus
Coach Ron Kemp put a real focus on their fitness levels early on in the year, believing they weren’t at the level that some of the stronger teams were. Like the men’s senior team, Kemp has also placed an emphasis on strengthening the defensive side of the game, becoming more accountable across the board.
Coach Ron Kemp’s thoughts on 2015
“I’ve always had a two part plan. The first plan is to make a final, that’s the first key goal. Once you make the finals, hopefully we can develop enough across the year so that we are in a position of wanting to beat the top sides, and hopefully be in the big game.”
Who has the X Factor
Keep an eye on two this year. After working tirelessly over the last two years to develop her game, Kemp believes Courtney Daniec is primed for a breakout year in 2015. The second is Shannon Campbell, a smart footballer who reads the play well. She will play a different role in 2015, just what that will involve though, Kemp kept close to his chest.
