GSFL 2024: Albany hungry to add another premiership as they look to exciting crop of youngsters in new season

Reigning premiers Albany are still as hungry as ever, according to coach Jamie Ramm, after claiming a historic first Great Southern Football League premiership last year. The Sharks clinched their long-awaited title with a thrilling win against Railways in last year’s grand final, and after savoured the sweetness of victory, they’re hungry for more. They boast a stacked line-up including talented winger and last year’s Kleemann medallist Robbie Lee, ball magnet and reigning club best and fairest Bryce Blaszkow, former AFL player Brett Peake and experienced midfielder Isaac Baum. The club has added to their long list of A-grade talent with former Peel Thunder defender Bailey Taylor. Taylor brings plenty of experience having played for the WA Country side in the last two years and has dominated for Boulder City in the Goldfields Football League. While Ramm admitted another grand final berth would be no walk in the park, he believed his side was ready to add another trophy to the cabinet after last year’s maiden premiership. “It’s not going to be easy but we’re still excited for the season ahead and we obviously still want to be successful and it (hunger) is still there,” he said. “They have been training well and the numbers are really good. “We have a few new players and a few young guys who want to have a go at being successful.” Versatile ruck Stewart Davies, utility Jayden Zilm and midfielder Fraser Eaton (relocated) were all key contributors to the Sharks’ flag success but will not play in 2024. The club’s emerging stars must shoulder the load left by the experienced trio but as has been their focus in recent memory, the club maintains a strong focus on the development of their youth and prolonged success. “We’re more about being a sustainable club really and make sure we’re very competitive and right up there and playing finals,” Ramm said. “It’s just about being sustainable and very competitive. “We will be missing a few players from our grand final side and we will be looking at playing some younger guys. “We got some pretty talented kids in our colts group but it’s a big step up so we just have to give them opportunities, give them a chance and see how we go.” Young gun and premiership player George Bockman is one to watch this season while Aiden Clark who narrowly missed out on being selected in the fairytale flag will hope to become a regular in the reigning premiers best 22. Second-year colt Harvey Taylor will add youthful flare to the Sharks side alongside fellow youngster Kaleb Germain. The Sharks start their title defence with an away trip to face Denmark-Walpole. 2023 REWIND Finish: Premiers Best and fairest: Bryce Blaszkow Highest Kleemann votes: Robbie Lee (14) Biggest win: 182 points v Denmark-Walpole Worst loss: 43 points v Mt Barker Highest goal scorer: Brett Peake (63)