Reserves: Squad mentality driving senior success

Having a whole program buzzing only helps the teams competing, when in a competitive environment.

It’s a situation the Reserves find themselves in, as they aim to compete for a double chance.

With the League pushing for a strong finish as well, it has the men’s senior program focused on success, which is important according to Reserves coach Jamie Battigelli. 

“The camaraderie and atmosphere you build around a football club at a time when you got both teams going is quite special,” he said.

“I think we’re all of the belief at the club that if the League side is going well, generally the Reserves will go well and that makes for a strong football club.”

The reigning premiers of the Reserves competition have had their challenges in 2023.

After starting 5-0, the side has slowed to an 8-6 record to sit third on the ladder.

Battigelli said at times, it’s about riding the wave.

“The competition is even, and you have to show up,” he said.

“We’ve definitely learned our lesson from when we don’t show up.

“But it gives us confidence that we can match it with anyone, and when we get to finals we can beat anyone.”

Subiaco did just that in the 2022 competition. 

The Reserves did it the hard way, coming from fourth on the ladder to win it all in last year’s Grand Final.

In the clash, Lachie Vanirsen was named best on ground with 27 disposals, eight tackles and seven marks.

However, the 20-year-old has had his injury troubles this year, having hamstring surgery earlier in the year.

He’s since worked back to fitness, and is continuing from where he left off.

Battigelli said despite his age, he’s an important leader.

“He brings really good experience, and he understands and gets what we’re trying to do,” he said.

“We know what he’s capable of, but he really needs to want it and lock himself in for it.

“He’s one of those ones that rises to the occasion, he’s a big game player and I think we’re going to start to see that even more.”

The Reserves is the perfect place for an emerging player to develop his craft, and learn a new skill if required.

High-flying forward Kody Eaton is one who has transitioned to the backline in recent weeks.

Battigelli said the move has helped the 22-year-old’s reading of the play.

“He’s such a natural athlete and jump at the football, I think when the ball is coming to him rather than him going to it, it’s a little bit different,” he said.

“I think it helps him with his marking and his reading of the ball.

“You can’t question his attack and his desire on the ball.”

A number of players from Subiaco’s Colts have graduated to feature in the Reserves system.

Among them, Rory Murison, Ky Franceschini, and Richard Farmer, who have all impacted this season.

Meanwhile, some players from outside the club have come in and have made an impact.

These include Jacob Wagenknecht, Keeshawn Cook, and Corey Hitchcock. 

Battigelli said they’ve all been important in driving standards within the club.

In his second year at the helm of the Reserves, he’s looking forward to what the rest of the campaign holds.

“It’s been challenging as it always is, but I’ve certainly enjoyed it and the support I get from the senior coaches,” he said.

“We’re looking forward to ramping it up.

“This is what you coach for, this is why we’re part of it so it’s all worth it now.”