2012 not on radar for Crocs coach



Thursday 4 August 2011

2012 not on radar for Crocs coach

The future beyond the 2011 season has not yet been decided for Port Douglas Crocs coach Andy Viola.

Crocs' president, Scott Ewert, says the club's focus is on winning the 2011 flag, and any discussions on the coach's position will take place at the season's conclusion.

"We've got one goal in mind. The committee has a job to do and the coaching staff has a job to do," he said.

Viola hinted at a possible change in 2012 and encouraged the club to find the right person for the job.

"My focus is on this year and this year only. I've spoken to the club and it's part of the constitution that they advertise (for the position), and I've got no problems with them advertising.

"I've got three kids and two cafes and at this stage, unless I'm able to sell one of the cafes, I might be taking a step backwards but at this stage I've got a year to run on a contract that the club will release me from if my work arrangements don't change.

"I want what's best for the footy club. I don't want them to miss out on anything and anyone that's going to be available, so I said go and advertise and if something pops up that's too good to refuse then go with it."    

Viola's record is impressive. He has taken the Crocs to the 2005 CAFL premiership, made the Grand Final in 2010 after remaining undefeated throughout the home and away season, and has steered the club toward another finals berth in 2011.

Viola is known as a hard task master, but many supporters were surprised when key players, Sam Boxall and Ryan Worn, were left out of the senior team for last weekend's match against South Cairns.

Viola told The Newsport the players were omitted for disciplinary measures after the pair failed to fulfil training obligations.

"We don't sugar coat anything. We've got one hard and fast rule for everyone and if people want to veer or sway from that then regardless of who you are or where you are in the pecking order you'll be penalised.

"They (Boxall and Worn) had a program that had to be fulfilled if they wanted to play senior footy and they chose not to fulfil those duties.

"They were both exceptional about it. They both went back (to the Reserves) and got best on and second-best on."

Viola confirmed the two would be back in the senior team this week.