Lia returns to the flock to guide rising Ibises' next season - November 7 2008
Lia returns to the flock to guide rising Ibises' next season
November 7 2008
Shepparton News
Reno Lia will be Tatura's coach in Men's Division One of North Eastern Soccer League after the club confirmed this week the former player was taking the role.
Lia, who won a premiership with the Ibises in 1987, will succeed Rocky Papalia as coach of the men's team as he moves back to the Goulburn Valley from Melbourne.
The former National Soccer League player with South Melbourne has coaching experience with Ashburton and Knox in the lower divisions of Melbourne metro soccer.
Papalia led Tatura through a winless season in 2007 before a break-out season this year saw the Ibises narrowly miss the top four.
Tatura needed victory on the final day of the home and away season against Shepparton United to make finals, but went down 1-0.
Tatura president Mimmo Lia said Reno's move back to the Goulburn Valley opened the door to him coaching the club.
``It was a great opportunity,'' Mimmo said.
``We had to pursue it.''
Not yet permanently based in the Goulburn Valley, Reno's recruiting strategy and pre-season plans are still to be determined.
Mimmo said he would talk with Papalia about his future with the club.
``If he still wants to coach a senior men's team then that will mean leaving Tatura,'' Mimmo said.
A women's coach is yet to be locked in for next season; Rocco Bagnato took the Tatura women to an elimination final exit this year.
Reno Lia has played for Shepparton United, Shepparton South and Tatura during his North Eastern Soccer League career.
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