As projects go it was not big, just a small flyover roof to cover the deck in front of the club house; but the end result has been incredible.
When you step out from the bar of the Pirates Rugby League Club on to the deck the atmosphere could not be better.
Looking straight on to the revitalized playing field you could understand the players feelings, for this, to them is surely – the green, green grass of home – home of the Noosa Pirates, a club that is once again on the rise.
“Considering the circumstances and restrictions, the work that our people have done is great,” said Pirates general manager and coaching director Brett Winkler.
Having being appointed to the position in early 2019 he has indeed made his presence felt; and all in a positive fashion.
“It is definitely something for them to be proud of. There is a good feeling across all sections of the club and our junior and senior divisions are now linking closer together as one: and with the QRL talking dates and player numbers it could not have happened at a better time.”
Regarding their teams, Senior division 1 and 2 (As and Reserves) U/18 and Women’s Open, the numbers are looking good; however, Pirates are still working to increase the numbers in Division2.
This is a move that would give them more strength and player depth for their senior division. All indications are that for this season Pirates will indeed be very competitive.
“Away from the playing fields all our people have been very supportive: our sponsors have stayed with us; the mums and dads are great and our supporters are taking note. The role of the parents is vital: as soon as possible we would like to get our juniors playing, thus keep them active in the club.
“Apart from the roof work we have also been active on our other field. We will soon have both under lights at Tewantin and we are also working in close liaison with the Touch Football Association: with the facilities we now have, there is great potential for other major events. Also, up at Cooroy the playing field has been upgraded and seating and cover facilities have been improved”
In his capacity as general manager, Brett is responsible for the day to day operations of the club and as such reports to the management committee. Then on the playing field he is coaching director: in this he works as head coach of Division 1 and overseas other seniors as director of football.
One of the major projects that faced the new GM (and is now under way) was to organise and have a full revision and update of the club constitution: in the world of business and club life this is of the utmost importance if the club is to stabilise and above all succeed.
When Brett Winkler walked through the doors of Pirates in 2019, the club had seen better days on the playing fields: team work was very scarce morale was not good.
The result of 2018 saw them, at seasons end, with the unenviable title of wooden spooners; the title that nobody wants.
However, later in 2019 things started to change and they came from the bottom of the ranks to make the finals: their morale was up and their culture, the true culture of the Pirates was back.
For Coach Winkler his own outstanding achievements as a player and coach in other clubs, has indeed been an inspiration for all Pirates: we wish everyone involved the very best in the times ahead.
