Lara could have a senior football coach in place by the end of the week as it continues to position itself for a return to action in 2027.
Pat Brady, who was last (Monday night) voted onto the Lara Football Netball Club executive as football lead, told the Cats’ AGM that discussions have taken place with a prospective coach who “ticks all the boxes”.
He also told the meeting that someone else was interested in filling the role.
Brady also confirmed that 29 players were signed, with that number expected to swell to 40 from those who have said, “yes over the phone”.
He said he had 65 more players to contact.
The election of the inaugural Lara Football Netball Club executive follows the Lara Future Planning Group’s recommendations in July, after the Cats’ open-age men’s football and A-grade netball went into recess ahead of the 2027 season.
The FPG set a Go/No Go date of October 1 for Lara to meet several conditions, including signing a coach and registering 45 players.
The Cats formally notified AFL Barwon of its plans to return to action on October 6.
However, the local governing body, due to meet with Lara later today, has yet to respond publicly to the Cats’ decision to push ahead.
The AGM, at which new president, club stalwart Bernie Walker, delivered a short address, drew about 35 people, who voted in the new executive unanimously.
Shana Wooding (Miatke), who has been the face of the Cats’ fight to return, will serve as vice-president.
Bridie Brady was elected secretary, Melissa Ryan as treasurer, Chris van Diemen took the netball lead position, and Jodie Patterson is the people and communications lead.
X: @krockfootball
