‘It’s an extra bit of motivation’: Kats ring the Bell as grand final agony provides drive

PLAYER CHANGES

Ins: Bailey Bell, Jake Curtis, Tommy Favaro (Nathalia)

Outs: Henry Cook (interstate), Sebastian Fernandez (Mulwala), Ryleigh Shannon (injury)

Last season was a year that looked to be going to plan for Katandra - right up until it very much did not.

Nonetheless, it makes the mission statement rather obvious: the Kats have every intent of coming off the ground smiling on the big stage.

The boom recruitment of Nathalia star Bailey Bell emphasises the directive not to drop off as clubs south of the border continue to vie within the upper rungs.

“Bailey brings a lot of experience and maturity to the group as our playing coach,” Whittaker said.

“We’ve had a couple move on, but we’re happy with our inclusions. We’re full of young kids, so we’re providing an opportunity for people to further their development.

“The disappointment of grand final day still runs pretty deep, so it’s an extra bit of motivation.

“We’re always on the lookout to try and get one or two per cent better in different fields; to sit back and be content with your lot from the previous year will land you in a lot of trouble.”