Premiership Coach Bracing for Major Player Turnover in 2022

Subiaco Premiership coach Beau Wardman is expecting a fresh set of challenges in the club’s quest to win back-to-back flags.

As Covid-19 uncertainty continues, the Lions mentor believes the depth of his squad will be critical on two fronts.

“We’ve indicated to our players that we might have to play up to 55 in the League side at different times this year depending on what the health requirements are.

If there are also opportunities for our players to step into the AFL environment as add-on players, be it for a week or a month, we’re prepared for that,” Wardman said.

During the summer break Wardman committed to the Lions long term, having agreed to a two-year contract extension which means he’ll be at the club until at least the end of 2024.

Subiaco Chief Executive Peter Capes had no hesitation putting his faith in Wardman, who last year took the Lions to their 16th League Premiership in the Club’s 125th year.

“We know Beau is the right person to lead us into the future and having secured two Premierships in his three years as Senior Coach the results speak for themselves.

In addition, Beau is focussed on developing our younger players and producing the best possible environment for them to excel,” Capes said.

Subiaco’s Premiership defence begins with a Grand Final re-match against the Bulldogs, followed by showdowns with fellow 2021 finalists Claremont and West Perth.

“We’ll certainly know where we’re at after the first three weeks and I think it’s a good challenge for us to really hit the ground running,” Wardman said.

Round 1 also presents the Lions with the opportunity to unfurl their 2021 Premiership flag.

“A number of our members and supporters really enjoy being part of it.

It’s been a bit of a tradition for a lot of them over the past 10 to 15 years to attend the first home match and watch the flag being unfurled.

It’ll be really special, particularly for the families of players who were part of that success last October,” Wardman said.

Subiaco’s season opener against South Fremantle will take place on Easter Saturday at Leederville Oval.