Lehman hoping to lead Drouin to success

The Drouin Cricket Club started their WDCA season with a loss to rival Western Park last weekend, but new coach Troy Lehman remains committed to bringing success to the club.

After coaching Longwarry for three years previously and also playing at Western Park, Lehman was floated the idea of taking up the vacant coaching role at Drouin by friends at the club. It turned out to be a perfect fit and he was named the senior coach, returning to the WDCA after spending a year at Tooradin last season.

While Troy may be new to the club, his name is well known. His father played at Drouin and he’s always had that connection, one that he always hoped would see him play there one day. 

One of the first things he’s noticed since coming on board is the culture that’s been crafted.

“The culture is really good. Everyone is willing to help out, many are first to put their hand up if there is something to be done. They’ve had the same side for a long time with players like Brad Glover, Simon Gardiner and more driving that, it really makes life for me a lot easier,” Lehman said.

Without much time to train and missing some of their top players, Drouin fell to a strong Western Park outfit in Round 1 of the Covid Cup, but for Lehman, just being out on the park was a positive.

“I was speaking with Jordan Wyatt and he said it felt odd to be back playing, but it was really great to be back in a team environment, just playing cricket and getting out a bit,” he said.

Drouin where bolstered by the return of Wyatt and the inclusion of Nathan Lambden in the side. Both players will return to premier cricket once it returns, but for now, Lehman has enjoyed having the experienced duo at the club.

“We have a lot of really good young juniors coming through and being able to hear from someone like Jordan for example is great for them. Watching him in the nets and learning from it, he’s been really helpful for us,” he said.

Lehman knows how important it is for the side to blood young players to keep the club flourishing and one player he mentioned was Josh Maric.

The young up-and-comer played a fantastic first up knock of 46, showcasing the talent he possesses, and class Lehman hopes to see grow across the season as he’s exposed to more senior cricket. 

Another important player Drouin were able to secure were the services of Cam McPhan. McPhan had moved into the area and after meeting with the side, came on board, a signing Lehman said was vital.

For Lehman, while this season may look a little different, the goal is to again take Drouin to the lofty heights of their previous premiership successes and from what he’s seen so far, his side are fully committed to that cause.

“Training starts at 5pm and they are all there ready to go. They are willing to listen, learn and put things into perspective and that’s the best part about it,” he said.

After a washed out second week, Drouin will welcome Ellinbank to the Drouin Recreation Reserve on Saturday in search of their first win under their new coach.