By PETER DOUGLAS
HEALESVILLE is primed to host an AFL preseason clash in the near future, according to local football officials.
After the success of the Essendon Football Club’s three-day training camp at the Don Road Sporting Complex, and the pristine condition of the surface, some believe the town can expect further major football events.
Healesville Football Netball Club president, Felix Fraraccio, said the positive response from Bomber officials provided further support for top-level events, including AFL preseason or Under 18s TAC Cup matches.
Mr Fraraccio said the Bombers were lured to the ground due to its MCG-like size and quality surface.
“Essendon officials didn’t believe how big and pristine the ground is, but were very impressed when they got here,” he said.
“The ground is in fabulous condition.
The town should be proud, the curators and (Yarra Ranges) Shire ensure it’s in top shape.”
Mr Fraraccio said the success of the open training session on Wednesday 9 December, which attracted well over 500 local AFL fans, proved the site was destined for bigger things.
He also cited the fact the ground this year successfully hosted the Yarra Valley Mountain District Football Netball League grand final, with more than 3500 attending the decider.
At the Bombers’ session, fans were treated to a sausage sizzle, plenty of fanfare and an Essendon squad that mingled and signed autographs.
New recruits Matthew Leuenberger and Craig Bird were unveiled to the crowd and waiting media, as well as draftees Darcy Parish, Aaron Francis, Mitch Brown and former Dandenong Stingray, Gach Nyuon.
The Bombers had opted to get away from their home facilities for a period while the club considers the issue of captaincy for next season.
While many pundits believe it will come down to incumbent Jobe Watson or young gun Dyson Heppell, the club wanted to get away and consider their options.
Coach John Worsfold spoke on the issue during an open media opportunity.
“The votes are in, but haven’t been counted, we have a strong leadership group to choose from,” he said.
However, the voting system is just a suggestion from the squad, but not an actual vote.
Worsfold wouldn’t be drawn in over suggestions of a two-horse race scenario between Watson and Heppell.
He also added it was “great to be here in Healesville in front of this fantastic crowd”.
Meanwhile, Mr Fraraccio confirmed Healesville Football Club has landed a few boom recruits for next season, with others returning to the club, but wouldn’t name the recruits just yet.
However, he believed they would be the difference next season as the club aims to go one better after finishing runner-up to Wandin.
