Camden Haven Redbacks set to trial playing coach pair

Papas and Holland will be taking on the role as playing coaches for the Men's Premier League team, while Jose Ustariz is making a return as the women's coach.

Camden Haven Redbacks president Tamara Burns, elected at the last Annual General Meeting in October 2018, said the pair were taking charge in a year of strong membership.

"We're got two premier leagues coaches this year with Rob Holland and Riley Papas, stepping in as playing coaches," he said.

"This is the first time in the men's competition for many years.

"Both have a wealth of experience and will be supported by other former coaches and players within the club.

Mr Holland played his first year at the club in 2015, and Mr Papas has been a Premier League player since he was fifteen, he also captained last year's team.

"Training has already started two weeks ago, obviously we are looking for a strong year with a new dynamic," said Ms Burns.

"Player numbers have been good but we are still looking for more players to strengthen our ranks.

"The men just missed finals in final game of the year in 2018, but had good improvements on previous seasons.

"The women's team is looking strong, Jose is returning coach from a few years ago," she said.

"There are a number of returning players and 18's stepping up this year, the women's team struggled last year but we are hopeful to turn that around."

Mr Papas said the new coaching strategy could rebuild the men's side up the ladder.

"I've certainly done a lot of coaching in younger age groups...  the level we have played at, our football knowledge is there," he said.

"I'm a natural defender and he's a natural attacker... we have a younger team this year so we do believe we can work as a unit, as someone players can come and approach."