Tara Murray
Footscray United has searched within to find its new coach for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 1.
After premiership winning coach Shafraz Mohamed made the call to stand down and depart the club, the Bulldogs sought applications from both within the club and out.
In the end it was one of their own, that will step up to take on the role.
“We are pleased to announce the signing of our new coach [Syed] Ali Hussain,” the club said on social media.
“A familiar face to all at the club Ali has helped us win three promotions as a player and has been recognised for his talents as a coach with his new position.
“Ali has a wealth of experience in coaching and knowledge of the game which he will utilise to help the club move into a new era.
“We look forward to starting pre-season and working hard with Ali to develop the players we have at the club to the next level.”
An opening batter, Hussain made 213 runs at an average of 17.75 last season and has previously played at several clubs including Williamstown CYMS and Keilor.
The Bulldogs will be in division 1 for the first time this season, having won back-to-back premierships.
The season before they also earned promotion with both grand finalists getting promoted.
Hussain said he was pretty excited to step up to the coaching seat at the Bulldogs.
“It is good to take on the coaching role,” he said. “I am committed to putting in the hard work, dedication, and passion needed to achieve our goals as a team.
“I’ve been coach before at Sunshine YCW and Chelsea, a south-east club. They’re the only two times I’ve coached in Australia and I won flags both times.
“It’s a challenge for me with the legacy of the club after winning back-to-back premierships and I’m hoping I can do it again.”
Hussain said for him and whether he was to coach again, had always depended on the needs of the club and what they were looking forward.
He said he had always taken a leadership role whether he was coaching or not and enjoyed helping the younger players at the club.
The Bulldogs have lost Mohamed, who has been appointed St Albans coach, and Ashen Abeykoon, who has followed Mohamed to St Albans, but has announced a number of new signings.
Daniel and James Deasy have joined the club from Essendon and will provide some Victorian Premier Cricket experience.
Sanju Jayasekara is a wicketkeeper-batter who has joined the club, while Nimesh Kariyawasam, has joined the club from North Dandenong.
Hussain said he was excited to see what the new players could do.
