RICHARD Grant has been coaching and managing Gunnedah United sides in the various forms of the Northern Inland Football Premier League for more than two decades.
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He has tasted the high of a Premier League premiership and the low of being also-rans.
Today in Armidale he savours the opportunity of coaching and managing a high-class and experienced side when the Southern All Stars tackle the Northern All Stars in the end of season rep game at Armidale’s Doody Park.
He and Gavin Thompson control the Southern All Stars against a young side being managed by North Armidale coach Andy Lennon and Inverell Joeys FC captain-coach Stephen Gadd.
It’s not the first time Grant has been in charge of a representative side or the first time an end of season rep game has been played but it is of great significance to Grant.
“Maybe 2009 was the last time they did something like this leading into the presentation night,” Grant said.
“And maybe we coached a rep squad in 2002 or 2003.
“It’s great they (NIF) are running this. I’m very happy to have been given the opportunity to be a part of this.
“There’s some great characters in our Southern team. Some very good players and a lot of strike power.
“We’ve got a very good, experienced bunch of lads while the Northern All Stars have a more younger side.
“I’m just glad to be able to work with some of these talented players.
“While we haven’t had any time together we’ll be good right across the park.”
He said players such as OVA’s Brendan Fergie, Adam Watson and Luke Purcell add class to the side while Tamworth FC’s Tim Smith and Kelly Nystrom add great solidity and stability.
“Then there’s talented young players like North Companions’ Nick Bowden and Dave Ifield,” Grant said.
“Moree’s Adam Ha deserves a run too and then my boys (Andy Cygan and Evan Lee) will relish playing with such good players around them.
“Brad McIvor (goalkeeper) won’t let anybody down down either.”
Tamworth FC’s Troy Osborne might have been first choice goalkeeper but the outstanding allrounder is away at a wedding.
While the All Stars game is the feature, the Rising Stars curtainraiser will also be of great interest to Grant.
“It’s going to be a big day and great to watch the young kids.
“We’ll have an enjoyable day and then go to the club for the presentation night and celebrate a big season.
“It’s something we should do more often, have a big get- together to celebrate the season.”