Sandringham Zebras Season Preview
19/03/2024
- Young Zebs shine in pre-season
- Who’s ready to unleash
- New names impress
In what is a massive year for the club celebrating its 95th year, the Zebs would love nothing more than to mark it with a return to finals for the first time since 2016.
The big questions
Is this new generation of Zebs the real deal?
Yes! Zebs supporters have every right to be pumped for the upcoming 2024 season, with the club assembling a core group of hungry youngsters that have the club well positioned for its first finals berth since 2016. Key to this has been the successful retention of stalwarts Oliver Lowe, Vincent Zagari, Blake Watson and the recruitment of rising stars Will Brown, Tarkyn O’Leary and Billy McGee Galimberti, who together with the infusion of St Kilda listed players will be crucial toward the Zebs’ charge up the ladder.
Will new-look leadership group unleash Anthony Seaton?
There’s never been any doubt about the talent Anthony Seaton possesses, becoming Captain of the Zebs at the age of just 21. Nevertheless, following the announcement that Darby Hipwell will be sharing the reigns of captaincy for the 2024 season, it may just be the support needed to elevate his game to the next level. The versatile defender will be looking to back up a strong 2023 season which saw him play all 18 games, arguably none better than his standout performance against Collingwood, picking up 24 disposals, 15 kicks, and 7 marks. A team I’m sure he’s keenly aware the Zebs are up against in round 1.
Will young gun recruits prove to be the catalyst?
Sandringham’s busy off-season has been rewarded with a welcome mix of youth and experience that perhaps may be the kindling for a strong 2024 season.
The arrival of big-bodied defender now transitioned midfielder Bayleigh Welsh offers this perfect blend. The former Dandenong Stingrays Captain impressed in the preseason, showcasing his contested work and ability to read opposition play.
Sure-to-be fan favourite Misilifi Faimalo joins us from Richmond VFL and is set to animate Zebs supporters with his forward 50 intensity, power, and flare with the footy.
Exciting prospect Hugo Hall-Kahan has proved to be a perfect addition to the half-forward line, the former AFL-listed Swan bringing both a versatile skillset, as well as a high level of professionalism that has continued to drive standards.
Look For …
Darby Hipwell to have a big year. Excellent throughout 2023 kicking 10 goals, averaging 19.5 disposals and 4.2 tackles, he’s had a super pre-season and looks set to continue his best and fairest form. The talented midfielder-forward has been rewarded under the new-look leadership model, joining Anthony Seaton as Co-Captain for what’s set to be an intriguing season for the Zebs.
Who we play
Sandringham plays four of the first five games at home, opening with an epic Friday night double header at RSEA Park against Collingwood prior to the VFLW Southern Saints.
Fans won’t have to wait long for action to return to WSTBBO, with the Zebs playing host to Essendon in round two, a team alongside Richmond and Geelong we play twice.
The Zebs’ first away game will see us heading north to verse the GIANTS in Canberra, in what is the first of two interstate trips.
Round seven takes Sandy and the Southern Saints to Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve, featuring in a special double header against Box Hill for the Blue-Ribbon Cup.
With byes coming in the fourth, thirteenth, and nineteenth rounds, the season concludes with a home game against Geelong.
Written by Digby Verlander – Sandringham FC Media