by Janine Hill

IF you had any doubts that Sunshine Coast rugby league competition was not serious, think again.

It was too wet for the Nambour Crushers to get on the ground last week but just because players could not train physically did not mean they could not train mentally.

The team sat down the night before the long weekend to set goals, talk key performance indicators, and hear referees’ expectations and rule interpretations for the season, which will begin on April 6 playing at home against the Maroochydore Swans.

Captain-coach Martin Cordwell said it was all a part of setting a level for the team to play up to.

“It’s something we feel as coaching staff was very important for the group. It sets a standard of expectation,” he said.

“Normally, if you set a standard like that, you create that expectation so it just gives you a bit more energy.”

Cordwell said there was a strong focus on getting “the little things” right, such as playing the ball fast and effort in defence.

“They don’t sound like much but if you do them well and everyone’s on the same page, it makes a difference,” he said.

Cordwell is in his first year in the dual role but said he had a team of coaching staff providing support which enabled him to take on the added responsibilities.

“We did work hard on finding a new coach. We did find other people wanting to help with coaching but they couldn’t commit full-time,” he said.

“I thought if people with that expertise could help, then I could put my hand up and coach the team.”

Cordwell acknowledged that playing and coaching was a combination that brought added pressure because he had to walk his own talk.

“I can’t say to people, ‘Do as I say’. I have to do as I say. I have to lead by example and put my words into action, but certainly having those good assistant coaches, when we get into the heat of things, I’ll be concentrating on playing footy,” he said.

“During the week, it’s coaching but on game day I’ll be particularly relying on assistant  coach  Jamie Vogler.”

Cordwell said the club had turned a corner in its direction in the last couple of years, working hard on building a family atmosphere and creating pathways for juniors who wanted to continue in their footy.

“We’re trying to be there for each other and back each other up,” he said.

The Crushers finished last on the SCGRL table last season. After a promising start they were hit with a dreadful run of injuries. After this weekend’s home game they travel to Caboolture to take on the Snakes on Sunday (April 14). 

• Meanwhile, congratulations are due to Brad Beetson for being honoured with a life membership to the Crushers after many years supporting the club and rugby league on the Sunshine Coast.