Coach's Corner

Tigers Coach
Jason Heathcote
Utility PLayers:
Utility players in Aussie Rules football are an essential component for any successful team. Because of the fitness and tremendous skill it takes to play multiple positions during one game, there are few quality 'utilities' playing in the USAFL. Although many players want to be called 'utilities' (and want to play multiple positions) few can lay claim to the necessary skills it takes to be classed as one. A player needs to have the strength and determination to be a strong presence around the ground whilst providing a marking target for their teammates. Coupled with this is the necessary speed and endurance to play on ball and run all day gaining possessions. It stands to reason then that the utility must be able to play on ball, in key goal-to-goal line positions, and even the pockets and flanks. The term utility is a flattering term for an Aussie Rules footballer because it really means they have the ability to play multiple positions as effectively as those who solely focus on the one position. Teams need utilities but every player does not need to be so multi-skilled. We at the Tigers like to have players who specialize in one position and really try and learn everything about that position. The best advice I can give a new footballer is to really understand the game from the perspective of certain positions. Meaning, try to understand the game from a forward line perspective; realizing such things as the best way to score goals and/or when to play offensively as opposed to defensively. Alternatively, a new player can learn a lot from observing the backline and how they stop goals and rebound the ball into the forward line. Trying to stand on the sideline and observe and take in the entire game of Aussie Rules can be very daunting and difficult to accomplish at first. Really learning one position enables a player to dominate their opponent and it also provides greater freedom to do additional things on the field whilst playing in the position effectively. The Tigers happen to have two great utilities this year. McCallister has moved into the first ruck position in the absence of Zimorowicz, adding this position to the already long list of positions which he has played. Duncan, in only his second year has also been able to compete at a high level in numerous positions. His smooth playing style translates well to the backline, forwardline and on-ball, which allows him to play multiple positions. Both of these players have great football knowledge and know how to read the flow of the game as well, which makes a huge difference. Having two good utilities enables me, as coach, to adjust the line up to suit the opposing team's style of play. Although I applaud them for their skill, others players can, and do, be just as helpful by succeeding in their one position and dominating that part of the field. New players should grasp any assignment with open arms and try to become the best they can be in that one position before trying to tackle another challenge. The main lesson learned from a good utility is a good footballer understands the entire game and realizes how each position interconnects. Most importantly, you must realize that each position does require different skills and has a different set of objectives. For example, the Full Backs (FB) objective is very different than the Full Forwards (FF). Players who don't realize the differences fully will not excel in any position, but rather be 'average' at everything.. If put in a new position, tailor your game to the appropriate skills and objectives to really excel - just like utilities do.