On behalf of the HSBC Waratahs, welcome to the Club for season 2012.
When I accepted the role of Head Coach, I said it was vital for the team to have a greater connection with its rugby families. In 2012 we are committed to achieving that both on and off the field.
Next year marks the 25th Anniversary of our first Life Members joining the Union and their loyalty, and that of all our members since that time, is something we value a great deal.
Our desire to deliver a more exciting and family friendly match program has seen next season’s tournament organisers schedule two blockbuster afternoon games at the Sydney Football Stadium.
We also have two huge celebration matches commemorating significant moments in the history of Rugby in NSW. Firstly, the season will open against the defending champions in a match which celebrates the 130th anniversary of the NSW-Queensland rivalry. Secondly, our clash with the Bulls will honour the 75th anniversary of the most famous NSW victory, “The Downing of the ‘Boks”, at the SCG in 1937.
On top of these feature matches, our off field team is working to ensure the game day experience and community engagement reflects the value we place on the relationship with you, our members.
On the field, we are preparing for performances that we hope will have mums and dads wanting to bring the kids to the game and we are continually developing the playing squad to do that.
The return of Daniel Vickerman and Rocky Elsom is a great boost, both are victorious HSBC Waratahs and seasoned internationals. Adam Ashley-Cooper is another exciting Test star joining us in 2012, while the addition of Sarel Pretorius – the competition’s top try scorer in 2011 – will further enhance our attacking potency.
These acquisitions will strengthen a squad which already boasts a number of Australia’s leading players, such as Drew Mitchell, Berrick Barnes, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Wycliff Palu, Lachie Turner, Benn Robinson, Sekope Kepu, Dean Mumm and Rob Horne. The emergence of young Shute Shield talent like Bernard Foley and Tom Kingston will guarantee the challenge for selection is fierce.
There is no doubt that last season provided a number of important insights that will provide focus as we prepare for 2012. Whilst it was extremely encouraging to see the courage and effort of the playing group as they fought their way to the semi-finals despite injury taking its toll, that does not take away from the frustration we experienced as a result of some our performances.
We know many of our members and supporters felt the same way and from the moment our season came to a close, we began the process of identifying and addressing aspects of our preparation that supports our desire to take a step forward in 2012. We will at all times endeavour to play with the character and skill indicative of the respect and gratitude we have for your ongoing support. It will be great to have you with us in the season ahead.
MICHAEL FOLEY
Head Coach
Member #1309438
