Faces of a new era at Parkmore Football Club. From left: Reserves coach Craig Wachter, Fintrack Mortgages general manager Andrew Campbell, and senior coach and Fintrack Mortgages chief executive Richard Houston. Picture: Mike Richards.By Glen Atwell
THE Parkmore Pirates will contest next year’s Southern Football League Division Three grand final, according to determined Pirates football manager Mike Smyth.
From gone to glory in one season, an age-old question will definitely be answered – can cash buy a flag?
Many thought the Parkmore Pirates would walk the plank after a dismal season this year, but the spirited club has vowed to continue the battle.
Struggling to boot a goal in most games this season, the proud club hit its lowest point and could have been excused for closing its doors.
But in the midst of a revolt led by Smyth, the club has turned the corner, appointing new coaches and gaining the major sponsorship it desperately required.
Richard Houston is the new senior coach and Craig Wachter will coach a new reserves side.
Houston, also the club’s financial saviour, is looking forward to the challenge ahead.
“My focus will be on developing a young team with a blend of new and experienced players,” he said.
“I want to encourage all players to come down and experience the new era dawning at Wachter Reserve.”
Houston is the chief executive of Fintrack Mortgages, the company that will underwrite all match payments next season, allowing the club to pursue some serious football talent.
Doveton’s champion full-forward Danny Casset has signalled his intentions to play with the Pirates next year, as has Terry McKinley, who this year played with the Hampton Park Redbacks.
Both make a surprise move from powerhouse league Casey-Cardinia.
Smyth said the vicious rumours surrounding the club last season had tarnished its proud family traditions and Parkmore was ready to set the football community straight.
“We are sick of the rumours about our club and they have caused us a lot of harm,” he said.
“Parkmore does not tolerate poor conduct and we have set up an independent tribunal to handle all on and off field incidents,” Smyth said.
Smyth refused to comment on current Pirate player Frank Scordo, and could not confirm whether or not the swashbuckling full-forward will be slipping on a Pirates jumper next year.
