The energy around the BMD Premiership squad is electric as the team embarks on a new season, the atmosphere within the squad is nothing short of contagious. With the program’s new head coach, Rhett Tronc, at the helm, the focus has been on building strong relationships both on and off the field while enhancing the club’s female pathways program.
From the get-go, there was a want from the players to find their next level, and a soft-launched preseason approach and remote programming was implemented in December last year, and the team will hit a hard launch pre-season in March this year.
During this soft-launch preseason, the players have immersed themselves some of the full club training sessions that the club has held, while also attending trainings with the Harvey Norman U17 and U19 teams. This is not only helping them sharpen their own skills, but it’s also creating a connection to mentor the next generation of Tigers rising through the ranks.
For the Nolan sisters, Ash and Caitlin, the sense of community is undeniable. Caitlin, who joins the Tigers from the Western Clydesdales after the 2024 season, expressed her excitement at joining the club alongside her sister. “The Tigers have always had good club culture,” they both agreed. Caitlin added, “I felt very welcomed by the new girls and the coaching staff. When I was given the opportunity to play alongside my sister, I couldn’t pass it up. It has been an honour to be training alongside my sister – competing and working alongside your sister is a different feeling”
Narikah Orchard shared her thoughts on the preseason sessions, describing them as “pretty tough,” but emphasised how the squad has come together. “The girls are pushing and encouraging each other. I’m looking forward to seeing the growth of our team and Female program. We have a few girls who have been around for a couple of seasons and some new girls coming through, I’m looking forward to seeing how we can build on the foundations we already have and have a successful season.”
Kelsey Parkin, now entering her 8th season with the Tigers, echoed the importance of camaraderie. “It’s hard to leave a place that feels like home, the main reasons I chose to return is wanting to win a premiership with the club and all the staff behind the scenes going the extra mile to make sure I’m looked after.”
These training sessions have been influential, and Kelsey is already noticing the development, “We’ve had several sessions already, and I feel like I’ve learnt and developed so much already. It’s expanding my understanding, and I love it.”
With strong leadership and a united squad, the Tigers are set to make waves this season, with a clear vision for both individual and team success. The journey is just beginning, and the excitement is unmistakable.
For more information on the BMD Premiership side, contact Rhett via [email protected]
