Curra Swans have named a new look team for their clash with the Bulldogs in round one of the AFL Townsville premiership season.
Only four members of Curra's 2008 semi final side are in the line up for the season opener at Tony Ireland Stadium on Saturday night.
Work transfers, retirements and competition for a spot in the seniors sees a new look side packed with youth.
Thirteen of the twenty two players are under 21 in side mixed with youth, experience and freshness.
Swans coach Peter Pyle was surprised at the statistic of youth in his side but not surprised that each of the players has made the grade.in the least.
A lot of these boys have come through our juniors and have been training the house down and have performed well in the clubs pre season trials.
Eight players were members of last years Under 17 side which finished 08 as undeafeated premiers.
Four have already a season at senior level under their belt and two are new to the club.
Joining the younger brigade will be a mix of height, speed and expeience in what Pyle sees as aside that will have a go and raise a few eyebrows over the coming weeks.
All up there are 7 players wearing a Swans jumper for the first time.
When asked what his expectations were of such a different looking Swans outfit Pyle was very optimistic. " We have had a nightmare preseason interupted by rain which waterlogged our ground for about 6 weeks. we couldnt use the ground during that time and that made it hard to train properley and also made it hard to gauge where the players were at in respact to fitness levels and playing ability. But here we are and the lads are ready to go."
Pyle isnt expecting overnight miracles but expects his charges to have a go and to work hard for each other. " It will take a few weeks for the side to settle down and there is still some quality players like Steven Taler to come back"
The Swans are in the development stage of a new era at the Club and it will take time for it all to come together. but there is no doubt that the changes at the Club have been positive with everyone at the club looking forward to the success that is coming.
One thing that is noticable at the Swans this season is the positive feel around the place. A lot of changes and a huge player turnover and everyone cant wait untill Saturday night when we finally get back to playing footy.
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Last Modified on 16/04/2009 22:22