Coaches Corner with Chad Shepherd

Coaches Corner with Chad Shepherd

For the 2019 Farah Palmer Cup we are focusing on building the team culture and the expectations of being a Counties Power Heat player, as well as working on our game structures. The development of culture and expectations is driven by the leadership group and team and overseen by the management. This is very important within our current environment for identity, ownership and accountability.

 

Compared to 2018, we have a totally different squad this season which is exciting for everyone involved. We have lost some key experienced players however we have an enthusiastic squad that with a real want to represent the jersey. It is exciting times as we have 8 debutants including 6 players still at school who are all wanting to stamp their mark on this years tournament, complimented by a strong mix of experience. This mix creates competition for places which ultimately is what we are all after as coaches. 

 

The 2019 Farah Palmer Cup has started off with two strong wins; first against a strong BOP Volcanix side, who I think will challenge a lot of teams throughout the season, then followed by a win against Manawatu. The girls put in a spirited physical effort against Wellington on the weekend, but unfortunately fell just short of getting the win across the line, with a final score of 36-38 to the Wellington Pride. We continue to build our game and are realistic as to where we are at in this stage of the competition. We are continually looking at measurable improvements for each of our games and if we can tick those off each week then hopefully, we will be in the mix at the business end of the season.