It will be something a little bit different for new Williamstown CYMS coach Nick Duxson in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association.
Having grown up playing the sport and having worked in cricket, Duxson will take on a senior coaching role for the first time.
Duxson said it was exciting to get the opportunity to step into coaching.
“I did some little bits and pieces a long time ago,” he said. “I did some junior coaching roles but then I didn’t have the time.
“Even with playing, I could only play half the games and can’t get to training and commit each Saturday.
“It’s been nice the last couple of years to be able to be more involved.”
Duxson replaces Brad Robertson, who has returned to Werribee to take on the coaching role there.
Duxson said the CYs role popped up and it resonated with him.
Being close to home and with most of the sides in the Steve McNamara Shield in close proximity it worked perfectly.
“When I popped up, I thought I wanted to see what that side was about,” he said. “It seems like a close knit, community club.
“A lot of guys have played throughout their journey. They are one of the few clubs that I haven’t played with or played against, so it’s a clean slate. It seemed the right fit for me and for them.”
Duxson said there was a real ambition from the group to win something together and improve.
He said there’s a lot of young guys who want to take that step.
“I’ve come on board and I’m still wrapping my head around everyone and what they do,” he said.
“They’ve been working on bringing some guys in and looking to bring in one or two overseas guys.”
Duxson said former first XI captain Jack Sutter would return after not playing last season.
They’re hoping a few other former players will return as well.
The CYs finished in seventh spot in what was a close division 2 competition last season.
Duxson said he can’t wait to get into it.
“I’m excited to get back into community sport,” he said. “One of those things I loved been involved in but haven’t been fully invested as I haven’t had the time the last decade.
“It’s a good opportunity at the CYs to bring the group up and be competitive and hopefully be in a position to play off in finals and play in some big games.
“Hopefully I can help them get better and achieve what they want to and they pick up a couple of things along the way.”
