Miners search for AFL riches

Miners co-captains for the 2010 season, Lachy McHardy (left) and Shane Mills. Photo: Supplied

THE Ipswich/Jindalee Miners are gearing up for a competitive 2010 Aussie rules season after a number of players showed immense talent last year.

“With building over the last three seasons, this team is ready to take the next step. We have retained some class players,” coach Brad McDonald said.

“With a couple of trials coming up in the next few weeks, we’ll get a bit of an idea how the season might shape up.

“Although we have got the nucleus of a very good side, there are still some gaps to fill, so we’re always looking for talent to join the team.”

Training is at 6pm on Tuesday nights at Jindalee (Wongaburra St) and Thursday nights at Limestone Park.

The Miners have lost some key players like Allan Poulton, Wil Saver, Oliver Kelsey (2009 best and fairest), and Tim Pole.

However, McDonald said the Miners were looking to new players like Shane McKew, Jacob Madsen and Corey Kempthorn to be a force this season.

The Miners recently named Lachy McHardy (2009 runner-up best and fairest) and Shane Mills as co-captains.

Lachy came through the Jindalee juniors and has had a stellar footy career to date. That was highlighted by him getting a game with the Brisbane Lions Reserve grade side last year.

“With a great footy brain and an uncanny knack of leading and bringing other players into the game, Lachy was an easy choice to lead the 2010 Miners,” McDonald said.

Shane is a Collingwood Park junior and in his third season as a Miner.

“He has been a real journey man for this team,” the coach said.

“He has great respect from the team and understands that leadership is about serving his team. He is brilliant at encouraging and constructive talk on the field and training track.

“Shane was the most courageous player last year, punching well above his weight in the ruck against much bigger opponents. He really gave the team great drive, and has developed into a very strong and reliable player.”

The 2010 home and away season starts on April 11. Some trial matches will be this month, including one on March 13 against Kenmore.