New North Footscray coach Robbie Hudson is keen to continue what has been started the past couple of years at the Western Football League division 2 club.
Hudson has been an assistant coach at the Devils as they’ve gone from struggling to field one side to making the division 2 grand final this year.
When coach David Battistella decided to step down as coach, they turned to his assistant coach to take on the role.
“It’s exciting and has been humbling enough to be part of the club the last two years,” Hudson said.
“I’ve been fast tracked into the senior role and it’s pretty humbling.”
Hudson said he always wanted to get into coaching.
He was a playing assistant coach last year, before retiring and just being an assistant coach this year.
Stepping straight into the senior role wasn’t what he was planning on.
“I thought I would do some junior stuff first before stepping into a senior role,” he said.
“With Batts hanging up the coaching board it just felt right and the reaction and excitement from the group has been humbling.”
Hudson admits he had to think about taking on the role with a young family and a business.
He said he quickly realised with the support of his family that it was too good an offer to turn down.
“Nothing is timed perfect,” he said. “It was a no brainer and it’s a great opportunity.”
Hudson said coming off a grand final has the club in a good position to build even further.
Last season, they fielded their first third open age side showing the growth at the club.
“The culture has improved the last two years,” he said. “That’s been not only myself but the other coaching staff, committee and it’s exciting to take over in this position.”
Hudson said they had pretty much signed everyone who had played senior football this year.
He said they would look to add a few more pieces.
“We’re having chats with a few extra guys who we are keen to top up with,” he said.
“We’re not a club to go out and splurge and pay big money to players.
“I don’t believe in that, it starts with culture and developing players and men.
“We’ll look at players who fit the team culture and the club and work hard with who we have.”
“We’ll look to add a couple more to get a little stronger and be the strawberries and cream on top.”
