Hoes go back to the Cole face

By Phil Skeggs

Ivanhoe Amateurs has appointed former coach Leigh Cole to spearhead the club next season in the VAFA’s Division 1.

Cole was an assistant coach to Gary Ayres at VFL club Port Melbourne when the Boroughs finished as minor premiers in 2014.

During the past two seasons, Cole was senior coach at NFL Division 1 club West Preston-Lakeside.

He previously coached Ivanhoe for three seasons between 2010-13, including the Division 3 grand final in 2012.

Cole replaces Paul Harris, who stepped down as senior coach after three seasons, including the Division 2 grand final in 2015.

Club president Luke Blackwood said Cole’s experience at VFL level would be invaluable to the Hoers, who consolidated in D1 in sixth spot this year.

The club is also seeking a women’s team coach for the inaugural VAFA women’s league competition next season.

Women’s team coordinator Peter Marshall told the club’s AGM there is strong support from local schools.

Ivanhoe Park’s redeveloped pavilion, which has been expanded to help accommodate a women’s team, is expected to be officially opened in December.

Pre-season training starts on Wednesday, November 16. For more details, go to ivanhoeafc.com