Open Letter to our Members, Supporters & Sponsors

To our Members, Supporters & Sponsors,

Off the field, our club is arguably in one of the best position that we've been in for many years. With the recruitment of new Board Members and staff and the introduction of new and innovative initiatives, we have improved significantly in a number of areas in comparison to previous years. With more functions and initiatives to follow, our off field position looks extremely bright: In fact it is very exciting!!

On the field however, is a very different story. Whilst we don't like our current on field performance and ladder position, it is reality and perhaps a wakeup call in that nothing lasts forever and we simply cannot take for granted that this proud club will always challenge for a premiership every year.

As you are aware, our Club is going through the process of recruiting a League Coach for next season. We have advertised Australia wide and applications closed last Friday. We received over 20 applications and have just shortlisted the number to 11. The process going forward is to narrow that number down to the preferred applicant and make the appointment / announcement soon after season's end. We are extremely happy with the quality of applications and we are certain that next year's coach will be what our Club requires going forward.

One of the reasons we had so much interest is because this great club has history, a strong brand, integrity and an extremely bright future. Whilst we've had injuries and retirements during the season we simply can't use excuses or dwell on the negatives and therefore, need to look at the positives, of which, there are many.

Last week we had our 15th player (Josef Hebiton) make his league debut for us this season. EFFC had eight players represent the State U/18's this year and all these young men should be available to play Colts in this years finals series.

Yes, our Colts are having a very good season and currently sit in third spot on the ladder. We also had three players represent the State U/16s in QLD recently, this too is a good result from our club. Based on this fact alone and with the recruitment of new players and the return of injured players for next season, how can you not think positively.

As mentioned, we don't like the current on field situation (but it is reality) and we'll do everything we can to fix it and greatly improve it. Our situation is not uncommon, clubs do go through this BUT we're not happy with it and we're doing something about it. The Board, Staff, Coaches and Support People have a unwavering commitment to our great club and our future. It is now time for all of our members, sponsors and supporters to 'buy in' and spruik the positives. We need and rely on you to continue to support us in every way and by doing this, you too are part of our excitement when we win our next premiership in the not too distant future.

Mark Stewart
President
East Fremantle Football Club