Olympian to coach club

Rockingham Redbacks have embarked on an exciting mission to become a premier-league hockey club this year, with past Olympian Dean Evans at the helm.

Recently appointed head coach and Madora Bay resident Evans said he would use his extensive playing and coaching experience to help the Redbacks realise its potential.

Evans said he understood what it took to be successful, having won a silver medal at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, and played and coached the Victoria Park hockey club to several titles.

“My aim is to drive the development of the club, from the elite right through to juniors and coaching,” he said.

“It is an exciting atmosphere and it makes me feel reinvigorated.

“I’m excited to give them the experience I received when I was young.”

In the past, premier level players were forced to travel and play with metropolitan teams, but Evans said the aim was to end the trend.

He said there would be increased attention on recruitment strategies, performance and coaching clinics.

Hannah McDonald has been playing with the club since she was five years old and said the biggest difference so far was the engagement between the teams.

To register for the club visit the registration sessions at Lark Hill Sportsplex or the Rockingham City Shopping Centre on Saturday between 9am and 3pm.

Alternatively, attend the Redbacks’ club day on Sunday between 1pm and 5pm.