Tara Murray
Hoppers is expecting there to be some challenges in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant division 2, section 1 competition this season.
With a number of players departing in the off season, it’s a rebuilding season for the Hawks.
President Richard Lewczuk said that they know it won’t always be easy this season.
“We are going to have a pretty tough season,” he said.
“We’re rebuilding the program having lost a lot of players at the end of last season who have gone to other clubs.
“We’re relying on the younger player to do a lot of the heavy lifting this season.”
Hoppers has started the season with two losses. It was a tough day out on Saturday against Keilor, playing on a really heavy green after heavy rain earlier in the day.
Keilor, last season’s runners-up, was way too strong, winning 113 (18)-52 (0).
Lewczuk said with a younger side there would be ups and downs, but that was part of the learning process as they find their feet.
He said they were keen to ensure that they consolidate their spot in division 2 this season.
“It will be a challenge with the players we lost from the top side and everyone needs to step up.
“We are hoping to be competitive against a lot of sides. If we can consolidate in division two it will be great.”
Lewczuk said the likes of Kane Stoodley, Dean Taylor, Harry Timberlake, Matt and Jeannie Arthur and Craig Duff were among the players to watch long term throughout the sides.
He said the additions of Les Laing and Ian Thorn had added some experience to the sides which was needed, with Lewczuk saying the experienced bowlers would be the backbone of their sides this season in providing that calming influence.
The club has four Saturday sides, down from five last season. Lewczuk said they still had more than 100 bowlers and were running barefoot bowls and corporate days to try and get more people to the club.
He said things were going well at the club.
“We’re gelling pretty well,” he said.
“If we put in the work and work hard together and do our best, that’s all we can ask for.”
The Hawks top side is due to face Melton 2 this Saturday in round three.
Meanwhile, Werribee had to settle for a draw in division 2, section 1 on Saturday.
The Bees’ match against Altona Sports didn’t go ahead due to the wet weather with each team coming away with nine points.
In division 3, section 1, Palm Lake lost to Essendon 2, 88 (18)-57 (0), while Werribee 2 lost to Newport 89 (18)-70 (0).
In division 4, section 1, Point Cook and Werribee 3’s matches didn’t go ahead due to the weather, having to share the points with their respective opponents.
