Ahead of the new season, we caught up with Ballarat Highlanders Head Coach Clint Smith, to hear all the goss out of Doug Dean Reserve.
Rugby Victoria (RV): Clint, tell us why 2022 is going to be Ballarat's year.
Clint Smith (CS): We have such a great bond on and off the field. Everyone knows club culture is key to winning and we are very welcoming and that will be the reason.
We have more community support with more getting more to trainings then I have seen before. With country rugby that'll be the difference at the end of the season.
RV: How has the playing squad evolved since last season?
CS: We have a great addition of three local St Pats lads. It's great for a club with no junior teams to still have somewhere to gain talent from!
We have a few more players who have never played union before giving it a crack, plus a couple of big returning players makes for a good recipe.
RV: Which player should we be keeping an eye out for and why?
CS: That is a really hard shout. There's so many players returning who had great seasons last year and going to have big ones this year. However Dennis Roeser would be the one to watch.
He played under 20s League for the Roosters a few years back and man, is he explosive. Once he figures out the ruck, he will be a huge threat.
RV: How will you evolve your gameplan in '22 to make a push for the post season?
CS: New year, new plan. We're playing to our strengths and want to play smart, exciting rugby. The new rules provide a bit more space.
RV: We understand former Dewar Shield journeyman Matty Dewar has been around the Club...what is his role and what has he brought to the environment?
CS: Matty Dewar has been huge for us. He has a presence that demands attention on the pitch. His knowledge has been awesome, educating our young blokes.
He's been player/coaching our forwards and doing a fantastic job. Keep an eye out for his brother Lachie as well. He looks prepped to have a big season!
RV: What will define success for the Highlanders in '22?
CS: To grow our group and play an exciting brand of rugby.
Rugby offers so much insight in to your players and community and if we can help our crew be better people and better players, then that's a success.
RV: Enough with the foxing, who's going to be the Highlanders leading try scorer in 2022?
CS: Hard one that...so much potential in our squad!
If the money was on it, you would put Matty Dewar's name in the ring. I have a feeling he loves a meat pie.
Also, Joshy Bennison is like the English Ange Capouzzo though, loves a gap and has a huge ticker.
RV: Noted! Thanks Clint and good luck for the season
