Speculation is mounting former Wodonga Raiders’ mentor Daryn Cresswell is on the verge of signing as Wangaratta Rovers’ coach.
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Hawks’ president Andrew Smith offered a no comment when quizzed on Friday night.
The club hasn’t officially signed a coach for next year as it plans a much-needed resurgence.
Raiders’ people are speaking privately about Cresswell’s coaching plans.
The former Sydney Swan announced more than 12 months ago 2018 would be his last at Raiders.
Rovers had co-coaches Sam Carpenter and Ross Hill last season, with the former announcing he was stepping down at the end of the season.
Cresswell is overseas and was contacted by text on Friday morning, but suggested he wasn’t sure where that information was coming from as he’s in England.
It would be a stunning coup by Rovers, who are coming off the worst season in their 68-year history.
For the first time since joining the league in 1950, the club had a winless season.
In their first year, the club posted one draw.
Cresswell has quickly established himself as one of the best coaches of the modern era.
He turned Raiders from an also-ran to a genuine contender.
Raiders finished second-last with just three wins in 2014 and have played finals every year during Cresswell’s four-year stint.
His ability to improve players, particularly youngsters, would have any official salivating with Rovers claiming the under 18 premiership.
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