So, here we are in 2023, with new season indoor training starting next month. It is also encouraging to hear that several players have already been netting at Dummer in recent months. There is no doubt that close season practice is of a benefit when the real action starts in May.
Looking to Improve
The objective throughout the club is to improve on last year, which whilst it was not a bad season by any means, it did have a ‘could do better’ feel to it. However, it’s silly to make any predictions until we know what rival clubs have been strengthened or weakened by the passing of another year. We also do not know whether any quality additions will come knocking on the Oakley door.
What is encouraging is that we don’t appear to have any departures. There seems to be a desire to improve at all levels and the captains should be happy with the players they have at their disposal. The return of Mike Tiley and Paddy Saines is like having two new players. The Colts production line is also producing players ready to step into the Third XI. With experienced coaches on board, we continue to develop into a structured club that will produce good future players.
Our success will always be based on building from the colts upwards, with any new senior members being the the type of players who want to engage with the club as a whole. We are not in a position to be a club of superstars who come and go through a revolving door of chaos. We’ve all seen plenty of clubs try to go big on recruitment before ending up clinging on to survival. It’s a futile exercise that nearly always ends in tears.
Off the Pitch
Off the pitch, the focus will be on developing the exterior of the clubhouse. With all the focus on the interior last season, we neglected the fencing, the garden area and the little things that make the difference, such as the hanging baskets. In Ollie Rabley, we have a great clubhouse manager and our upcoming committee meetings will be about getting the outside looking dandy and welcoming.
By doing this, we can add to the list of functions we already have booked in 2023. This generates money for further improvements and investment in facilities, which in turn, creates a better environment for players and supporters of the club. I am certain that working as a co-operative is the key to future success. If we look at what has happened to the facilities in recent years, it is blindingly obvious it is the best ideology for a club like ours.
So, much to be excited about in 2023. As I said, we cannot predict what the season will bring on the pitch but we can and will, put everything in place to set us up for an enjoyable and successful summer at ‘The Theatre of Scenes’.
May I wish you all a prosperous and healthy New Year!
The chair