Harper Sercombe
Newport has welcomed its coach to lead them forward in the Western Region Football League division 2 next season.
The Panthers were knocked out of the division 2 finals series by just four points under the watchful eye of Josh Russo.
Russo called his time as coach of the club over following the heartbreaking loss, paving the way for Rodney Van Riet to take the helm.
Van Riet brings with him a wealth of knowledge and winning experience, being a seven-time premiership player, thrice at Seymour and four times at Deer Park. He has played more 300 senior games, winning two league best and fairests.
Van Riet said he is looking forward to getting started with his team. Van Reit joins Newport from Deer Park where he played this season.
“I think it’s a very exciting time for the club, they’re a very young club, it only just missed out on playing in a grand final, I think it’s really exciting times to be honest,” he said.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to watch the last couple of games they’ve played and you can tell they’re right on the cusp of being able to make a grand final and take that next step and put themselves in a position to win a flag.
“The other exciting thing is they’ve done it with kids coming through as well… they’ve got a really good culture of promoting within, so it’s really exciting.”
Some players who were thinking about leaving the club are now recommitting to the Panthers and it has added an extra layer to Van Riet’s anticipation.
“Going to a new club, you don’t want to lose anyone,” he said.
“I think one of Newport’s greatest strengths is they’re a real family oriented club, you can really tell that they’re all about creating a little bit of history and winning with their friends.
“To already have that bond in place, fills me with great confidence that the boys will lift for each other when you need to go that extra mile come finals time.”
While Van Riet will bring his own spin on things and approach to game day he said he thinks the list is in a good spot and seems set, especially where he applies his craft, down back.
Among his best and fairest awards, was a Dick Reynolds medal as the best player in the Essendon District Football League.
“We’ll probably chase maybe two or three players,” he said.
“Might look for a ruckman and then maybe just a little bit of polish.
“I won’t be chasing the world, I think they’ve already got the list there ready to compete.”
Van Riet said given his age that he’ll probably play maybe four or five games and see how the side goes, but he thinks the side is pretty set.
