Senior Coaches Ian Ledder and Jarrod McMaster have both agreed to return to Bennettswood in 2020 to chase the ultimate success.

Both Ledder and McMaster joined this year from the St Kevins OCFC program, and have breathed new life into the Animals Men’s squad, with the Senior side making the finals for the first time since 2015, where they fell ultimately short in the Preliminary Final against Manningham.

Ledder was excited about what was in store for 2020 after the strong end to the 2019 season.

“Coming off a successful 2019 season with two excellent finals appearances one of which we saw a victory, 2020 is shaping up to be an exciting year.”

“We have built a strong foundation across the board to launch a seriously competitive campaign.”

Outgoing Animals President Alex Maunder had nothing but praise for the pair after their first season.

“I’m very excited to announce that Ian Ledder and Jarrod McMaster will be returning to lead our Senior Men’s team in 2020. Ian and Jarrod worked tirelessly this year to bring new energy to the group, with a strong focus on game plan and making the most of the qualities of the playing group”

After a 2018 season which saw the Animals relegated on the final day of the season, both Ledder and McMaster ran an intense pre-season program which saw the Animals open with a 55 point win away to Parkside, and cap off a day which saw all three Animals sides win that day.

Their ability to keep the team going through a month long break in the middle of the season was crucial at the pointy end of the year. After losing 5 of 6 games going in to the bye, the ledger was reversed and they stormed home making the top 4 comfortably winning 5 of their last 6, including being one of 3 sides to win at Westbourne in 2019.

A commanding win in Week 1 of the finals over Canterbury was the crowning achievement of the year, as the Animals dominated the Cobras in every facet of the game to take a 5 goal win.

The committal of the Senior Coaching panel is the first of a long list of crucial cogs in the Animals Family announce their intentions to stay in the family in 2020.

“With the retirement of some experienced and exceptional players, the club will attack the up coming season with a group of young men with considerable passion and drive.” Said Ledder.

“I am positive this playing group and those that will join the club, will fill all the requirements to

ensure further success for the animals.”