United teams look forward to Classic challenge

A chance to test themselves against some of the best club teams from across Australia is a challenge Geelong United junior coaches Troy Parker and Brendon Matthews are looking forward to at this weekend’s National Junior Classic in Melbourne.

Parker is in charge of the under-14 (1) boys, while Matthews oversees the fortunes of the under-16 (1) girls.

The boys will open their campaign against Nunawading on Saturday morning before matchups with South Adelaide on Saturday afternoon and Newcastle on Sunday morning as part of their Pool D games.

Coach Parker is confident of a solid showing from his team, starting by reversing the result of a four-point loss to the Spectres in VJBL grading.

“We’ve been really competitive in every game we’ve played,” he said. “We’ve had an opportunity to beat every team, so we go in thinking we can win every game.

“But, you never know. The competition is so strong.”

For both Coach Parker and each member of his team, it will be their first appearance at the Classic.

“It will be a great experience for them.”

35 TEAMS BALLARAT-BOUND

The under-16 (1) girls, who finished runner-up at Country Championships earlier this year, took until the 11th hour to qualify.

Placed in Pool B, they will also play Nunawading on Saturday morning and Newcastle on Sunday morning, with a matchup against North Adelaide on Saturday afternoon.

“Last year we went, and we didn’t see an interstate team until the last day,” Matthews said.

“This year, having North Adelaide and Newcastle, that’s fantastic for the kids.

“And it’s a great opportunity for me because I’m coaching against coaches I haven’t seen before.”

For Coach Matthews, the Classic will be used to prepare for the remainder of the VJBL Victorian Championship season.

“We’re pretty realistic around the expectations we’ve got (for the Classic),” he said.

“We can reassess our structures. We know the back half of VC’s super strong, and there are no easy games.

“It’ll get us going, hopefully.”