Miners’ sights on top spot

By Marc McGowan
THE Berwick Miners will have the championship in their sights when they begin their 2008 campaign this weekend.
The local gridiron club was eliminated in the first round of the finals last season, but new head coach Darren Shaw believes his team has the arsenal to go all the way in 2008.
“I expect us to make a serious push at the championship and be in the top two at the end of year,” he said.
“Injury in any sport, at any level, is the only factor you can’t do anything about, but, if all goes well on that side of things, we can win the whole competition.
“The ability and the tools are there, so if we play well on any given Sunday, we can take the whole show.”
Shaw, who has been the Miners’ defensive coordinator for the past two seasons, has replaced Dale Warren as head coach.
Warren will now concentrate on his role as special teams’ coordinator.
Heavy hitting offensive lineman Warren Short (work commitments) and wide receiver/quarterback Jamie Stafford (Croydon) are the notable departures.
But Shaw is excited about the arrivals, including 16-year-old running back Nick Vlad, Franco Devivo and Martin Zika, who he expects will make up for the duo’s absences.
Much of the Miners’ fortunes will depend on the development of teenage quarterback and last year’s league most valuable player Sam Walker.
“Last year was his first year at quarterback, replacing Jamie (Stafford), and he is really coming of age now,” Shaw said.
“He’s starting to mature after some good coaching from (offensive coordinator) Mel Martin and is oozing with confidence.
“Sam’s shaping as the best quarterback in the state and it won’t be long before he’s pushing for the state team at his position.”
Shaw has also earmarked major roles for new captain Lee Lindsay, running back Shahid Malimar and linebackers Rob Zimmerman, Sam Wilson and Mark Petana.
“Everyone is itching to go and hopefully the locals will come support our home games and watch these young kids take control of the league,” he said.
Berwick begins against the Southern Seahawks at Springfield Reserve, Croydon, on Sunday at 2pm.