REDMEN TO AXEMEN – Powell sets sights on Country Championships

By Gary Nichols

GRAFTON Redmen first grade rugby coach Gary Powell had one goal in 2023: to see the Redmen once again be a major force in the Mid North Coast Rugby competition.

Not only did they achieve what some rugby pundits’ thought was a “pie in the sky”, Powell’s desire, raw emotion and passion saw the club feature in the final’s series with first grade one-step away from a grand final berth.

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There’s no doubting Powell’s coaching ability, and it has not gone unnoticed by the Mid North Coast Zone committee.

Powell has been appointed as coach of the Mid North Coast Axeman this year as they set their sights on the NSW Country Championships in Tamworth over the June long-weekend.

“They (Mid North Coast) gave me a call and asked if I was interested,” Powell said during the week.

“They discussed the matter previously with our president Bart (Bart McGrath) who told them I was thinking about coaching the zone if the opportunity was there.”

The Grafton Redmen first grade coach Gary Powell wants to build on the gains the club made in 2023.
Photo: Gary Nichols

The last time Powell coached a representative side was back in the 2000s when rugby was vastly different.

The pace of the game was slower and yellow cards were not handed out like parking tickets on a busy suburban street.

“I coached a Mid North Coast under-19 side a long time ago but never at senior level,” Powell said.

“It will be a challenge, but I’m really looking forward to it.”

One major obstacle confronting Powell and the coaching staff will be selecting the right team and combinations as the zone is split between Upper and Lower Mid North coast.

Redmen assistant coach Mitch Walton has joined the club from Coffs Snappers this year.

“There is a new plan this year leading up to the championships. We have decided to have a possible-probable’s game which will help with selections,” Powell said.

“Also, Lower Mid North Coast start before Upper Mid North Coast so it could be an opportunity to watch a few games.

“Mitch Walton from Coffs Snappers will be helping out as assistant coach which will be fantastic as he knows a fair bit about players vying for selection.”

The Axeman made the final of the Richardson Shield last year, but came up against an inform Hunter Rugby side eventually going down 45-26.

One of Powell’s strengths as a coach is his ability to man-manage, and his effect on players…they want to play for him.

“I haven’t been to Country Week for about 30 years, but I know there are plenty of quality players in the zone,” he said.

“For me it is all about managing the players and having players committed to the cause, which is being successful.”

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