Sport
11 June, 2025
Eagles soaring high
After making the finals last year, the Ararat Eagles have soared higher in 2025, undefeated after seven games in the Mininera Football Netball League.
Coached by Mitchell Laundy and Tom Taurau, the Eagles have improved across the board in 2025 and are ready to take the next four weeks head-on with a tough fixture.
Laundy said the tough work starts now.
“The last few weeks may have shown we won big on the scoreboard, but the scoreboard didn’t reflect the games,” Laundy said.
“They didn’t feel like big wins and the opposition brought it to us, and I believe it’s an open season this year in that anyone can win.
“We have been fortunate to bank a few wins early.”
Laundy credits the performance to date on a solid reward from a strong pre-season.
“We started our pre-season in November, and we worked a lot on our fitness and skills,” Laundy said.
“We have had an even spread across the board this season and we have good depth and have been fortunate on the injury front.
“The bye came at the right time for us, as it gave us a freshen-up and we are ready for our next four-week block.”
The Eagles travel to Woorndoo Recreation Reserve on Saturday to face Woorndoo/Mortlake in round eight and Laundy knows it will be tough.
“We had a lighter week on the track to freshen up the bodies,” Laundy said.
“Woorndoo/Mortlake is a quality outfit, and they have good inclusions, and we are always wary of traveling out there.
“Our good ball movement and scoring ability should set us up well and we are ready to have a red-hot crack.”
Laundy said he and Tom make a good combination.
“I decided to take up coaching because I love the game,” Laundy said.
“Tom and I have a good understanding of each other, and we feed well off each other.
“He is fantastic on the ground and brings plenty of ideas to the table.”
Laundy highlighted Jack Taurau, Ben Robertson and Sam Summers as having outstanding seasons.
“Jack as our captain has gone to another level, especially moving into the ruck role,” Laundy said.
“Ben has been outstanding during the front half of the year throughout the midfield and Sam Summers off half-back has also been excellent.”
In other round eight matches, Moyston/Willaura hosts Wickliffe/Lake Bolac, Great Western hosts Penshurst and SMW Rovers hosts Tatyoon.
Read More: Ararat