Panthers welcome new coach

The Dandenong Cricket Club have announced the appointment of Andrew Christie as Women’s head coach for the 2018/19 season.
Andrew comes across from East Doncaster Cricket Club where he has filled the role of coach since 2016. The accredited representative cricket coach also brings experience from time coaching the Outer East Eagles in the Cricket Victoria Pathway and the Melbourne University CC Academy.
However, it is perhaps Andrew’s experience outside of cricket that most excites those at the Shepley.
“We believe our women’s teams have a very exciting future ahead and Andrew provides a diverse range of skills and experience that perfectly equip him to lead that future,” said president Michael Findlay.
“Experience working with State and National Institutes of Sport, all-abilities and indigenous programs, schools, male and female teams as well as his own experience as an athlete through both cricket and cycling; Andrew brings a lot to the table.”
For Dandenong, they believe it is a package that will provide what is needed for both team and individual success.
“There is no doubt that we are out to win games and improve on last year’s results,” said Findlay, “However, it is just as important for us to see everyone at our club reaching their potential, and that means seeing Panthers granted higher honours. Andrew has the experience working with elite athletes, and as an athlete himself, to show what that takes and help our players get to the next level”.
It is certainly an impressive resume for a coach yet to reach his 30th birthday, but Findlay believes Christie’s youth is part of the appeal and complemented by a mature head.
“We so often talk about cricket being a game played above the shoulders and Andrew is mature beyond his years. He brings a calmness, clarity and empathetic outlook that are great credits to him but his achievements also show that he balances this with discipline and drive. These are all qualities that we believe will allow him to connect with the players and instill a similar ethos in them.”
As for Andrew, he is looking forward to immersing himself in a club that is riding a great wave of momentum, and continue to build on a culture that is obviously heading in the right direction.
“I’m looking forward to meeting with the leaders of the club, and of course players, to get a deeper insight into what being a Panther is all about. My philosophy as a coach is to provide a platform for players and athletes to succeed in both sport and life which is directly in line with what the club as a whole are trying to achieve, so I am very excited to be a part of that.”