Searching for their first GPS premiership since 2004, an experienced Gregory Terrace side return in 2019 under new coach Ryan Schultz.

Schultz says Gregory Terrace will look to attack this season and seems confident his side will cause an upset or two along the way.

Overview with Ryan Schultz: 

“We got stuck into things at the start of term two with an extended squad and being new to the program, we made sure that we took a look at all players that wanted to put their hand up to play first XV,” Schultz said.

“Since then, we’ve worked to narrow the squad down with firsts and seconds training together.

“I really can’t fault the attitude or application of the group, they’re good, hardworking kids and I think there’s a lot of talent and potential there.

“We started a little later than some of the other schools, then took a bit of time to look at all of our players so we’re not looking into our trial results too much. We’ve worked on key aspects of the game that will influence how we play and we’re excited to get into the business end of the season.

“We’re going to play rugby, that’s for sure. I like to see players use rugby as an avenue to showcase their abilities so I’d like to see each one of them show us what they can do this year.

“We’ll look to play an attacking style of footy and try and showcase the group’s values as both players and people so that our community can be proud of the rugby that we’re playing.”

2019 Squad: 

“They’re definitely a hard working, willing group of young men and there’s a lot of talent within our best XV.”

“I’m pretty confident that the 15 players that get the opportunity to start each week will put everything they can into each performance and I think they’ll outplay teams through effort.

“The beauty of last season for us, is that a lot of younger guys got an opportunity to play first XV and find out what it’s all about.

“We’ve got a lot of those guys returning this year and they’ll bring those experiences with them. I think they’ll go into this season with a lot more confidence than they did last year.”

Key areas of improvement: 

“We’re really focussing on consistency. Consistency in the way we want to play and in our execution,” Schultz said.

“The other big focus has been to ensure we’ve got 15 players that work hard for one another and work hard off the ball to create opportunities in attack and defence.”

Hope and exceptions for the season:

“I think it would be silly to talk about wins and losses at this time of the year. We’ve just been focussing on making sure we prepare well, continue to better ourselves and ensure that we represent our community well every time we wear the Gregory Terrace jersey. If we do that, the results and performances will take care of themselves.”

Bold prediction for 2019:

“I think TSS are in for a big year, they’ve got a really talented squad and I’d expect them to live up to their potential,” Schultz said.

“One thing I do know is that every team is going to be well prepared. There are a lot of quality coaches within the competition and that’s exciting because everyone is going to have to play good footy to win matches.

“Each team will be well prepared and capable of winning each week.”