Ger Connolly | Coach Profile
How long have you been involved in ESFA?
This is my seventh season with Dunbar having started as a player in All Age Men’s before moving to Over 35s football. The knees had enough of the hard ground, so with the support of the club and ESFA, I completed my FFA C Licence and concentrated on coaching rather than playing. After some success in All Age, I moved up to the Men’s Championship as assistant to Will Cullen for the 2014 season.
What’s the best thing about being involved with your club?
Dunbar is a club with a rich history, this is our 25th year so it’s a special one for the founding members. The majority of our members are ex-pats so it’s a great way for people new to Sydney to build a network of friends quickly.
How do you fancy your chances of winning the league this year?
With the club moving into State League for first time this year, the Men’s Championship squad has a totally new look from the all-conquering 2014 squad. Having said that, we have recruited well and picked up some exciting young talent while also plucking some of the best players from our All Age teams.
Who do you think the main contenders for the ESFA league title and why?
Obviously Coogee have been our main rivals for trophies over the last few years and they will be the team to beat in both grades. Jimmy and Jeremy are good coaches and will have their teams well prepared. Waverley, Phoenix and a much improved Maroubra side will be contenders too.
Which football team do you support and why?
I’m a big Liverpool fan and thanks to ESFA for giving us a bye on the weekend they play in Brisbane in July. I’ll be up there to watch Brendan Rodgers unveil some big money signings. Next year is our year!!
Out of the new signings at your club who is showing the most promise this year?
Sam Talbot and Jack Johnson are the ones grabbing the headlines at the moment. Both have three goals after the first two games and give us an extra dimension going forward.
Outside of playing football in the Eastern Suburbs what else do you get up to?
Outside of Dunbar my nearly two year old daughter takes up most of my time. I’ve had good experience having to babysit some players at Dunbar over the years.
Who is the best dressed at your club?
Stephen Deasy has moved on to State League now but he had an acquired taste in clothing. New boy and Geordie Shore extra, Iain Downie has appeared in some interesting ensembles but skipper Si Philby is probably leading the way in the fashion stakes.