A FEW stars may have departed over the off season, but Benalla All Blacks coach Ben Wapling is convinced the Panthers will be an improved outfit in 2012.
Following two straight campaigns ruined by a combination of injuries and on-field indiscretions, Wapling says the Panthers have been working hard, both physically and mentally, to ensure the same thing doesn't happen again.
"We need to go back and look at the things that affect us on the field and find ways to improve that side of our game," Wapling said.
"There were players who reacted negatively to certain things, and once that happens things really start to go against you.
"Part of it was to do with the expectations that were placed on us after a big turnaround (in 2010), but that probably isn't there now because a lot of the talk is about other clubs.
"People are doubting us, and that is a good thing, because that will only motivate us more.
"We're in the best shape physically and mentally we've ever been, and you would be silly writing us off.
"People think the club is falling apart, but they forget about how hard we've worked to get to here."
Among the departures at the club for 2012, Duane (Brush) and Drew Haebich, and Brendan Fear, will all leave a void, while Matt Robinson and James Clarke both missed a large chunk of the year through injury and will be more easily replaced.
Todd Rogers is set to have an immediate impact in the midfield, defenders Greg Van Beek and Ben Irwin will shore up the back line, while Cody Taylor and Nathan Wells are set to become regular senior players after graduating from Daniel Preston's successful under 18 side.
"Todd is a senior GV (Goulburn Valley) player he will slot in nicely," Wapling said.
"There are a few others who have trained with us consistently and we are just waiting on to make a decision.
"We also had 6-7 players out injured week in, week out last year, so there are a lot of guys who can come into the side."
By - SCOTT ANDERSON.
Last Modified on 18/02/2012 09:50