Photo: Junee Diesels.
The Cootamundra Bulldogs are gearing up for their final preseason event ahead of the 2025 Group 9 season.
The highly anticipated Season Launch will take place at 3pm at the Cootamundra Golf and Sports Club, offering a relaxed atmosphere for players, sponsors, and supporters to come together before the season begins.
Bulldogs President, Stephen Howse, shared his excitement about the up-coming event, “We’ve always had Season Launches in the past, but they’ve fallen by the wayside in recent years. This year, with four grades, we’re bringing it back. I know it’s a bit of a tight squeeze with it being just a week before the season starts and some players are away and others have commitments but we’re working with what we’ve got.”
The Bulldogs are fielding four strong teams this year: First Grade, Reserve Grade, League Tag, and Under 18s.
“All our sides are looking strong,” Howse says with confidence. “It’s going to be an exciting year for us.”
Howse also explained some changes in scheduling this year, particularly with the Under 16s.
“The reason the 16s were pushed back was that Group 9 and Group 20 were the only clubs that had juniors playing on Sundays. We had to follow those guidelines from the NRL.”
In the lead-up to the season, the Bulldogs have kept busy with various activities, including a golf day and two trials. “We’ve had something on every week,” Howse says.
“Some people suggested holding the launch last weekend, but that would’ve clashed with the Terry Douglas Shield. Plus, as part of the new agreement, we decided to keep the Season Launch a singular event.”
The event itself will be casual and informal, with presentations of team jumpers featuring the club’s sponsors. Howse hopes the key sponsors will be in attendance, especially those whose logos appear on the front of the jerseys.
“It’s all about getting the sponsors together and showing our appreciation for their support,” he adds. “We’re hoping to see the sponsors there, but if they can’t make it, they’ll still be acknowl-edged.”
While the event is primarily a social gathering, there will be plenty of family-friendly activities, including a jumping castle for the younger supporters. “It’s a chance for the kids to have some fun while the parents and players mingle,” Howse explains.
The new restaurant at the Golf and Sports Club has been receiving rave reviews, particularly for its stone-grilled steaks and authentic Chinese dishes. “It’s been a hit,” says Howse. “If you’re in the mood for a meal, the restaurant’s a great option.”
The Bulldogs’ first official game will be a tough challenge against the Kangaroos at Les Boyd Oval.
“The Kangaroos were runners-up last year, and you can’t get much bigger than playing against the second-best team two years in a row,” Howse says.
“It’ll be a tough start, but we’re up for it. It’s a great test to see where we stand early on.”
The Bulldogs will face other strong teams in the first month, including Tumut, Young, and Albury. Howse is looking forward to the challenge, saying, “We’ll know where we’re at after those first few games.”
On the field, Howse has been impressed with the commitment and attitude of all the players and this week singled out ‘Tye’ and ‘Nicko.’
“Our front-rowers have been fantastic. They’re not just great players; they’re great people too. They’re always offering to help out, whether it’s volunteering or cleaning up after events. They’ve really embraced everything we’re about as a club.”
As the season nears, Howse emphasises the importance of community support. “There are so many ex-Bulldog members in the club who love hearing about how things are going. It’s important for us to stay connected with them and make sure we’re visible.”
The Bulldogs are ready to hit the ground running, and their fans can expect an exciting season ahead. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a newcomer, the launch event promises to be the perfect way to kickoff what is sure to be an action-packed year.
(See our print edition for more on the Terry Douglas Memorial game).
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