The Macleay Valley Mustangs have elected David Fernando as president of the club for the 2019 season.
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Fernando, who led the club in 2014, decided to take on the role to ensure the club remains in the Group Three Rugby League competition.
The Mustangs’ survival had been questioned in recent weeks as the club was forced to withdraw from first and reserve grade competitions this season and the club wasn’t represented at the Group 3 Annual General Meeting held on Sunday November 11.
However, the appointment of Fernando is a positive move as the rugby league fanatic brings a stern voice and a lot of knowledge to the club.
Fernando told the Argus the Mustangs will reach Group Three’s requirements and they will become affiliated with them for the 2019 season.
“I didn’t want this club to be out of the competition. Once you’re out, it’s very hard to get back in,” Fernando said.
“I am very confident we will meet all of the requirements and be permitted to play in Group 3 next year.”
The 62-year-old admits the 2019 season will be a rebuilding year and has placed low expectations on the club’s on-field performances.
“It will be a successful season if we are able to field two competitive senior teams,” Fernando said.
“We obviously weren’t able to do that this season but we will work hard to make sure that doesn’t happen again.
Despite being unable to finish either senior grade last season, Fernando claims there is no current consideration for only fielding one senior side in 2019.
“There’s a good feeling around the club at the moment and there’s a strong belief a fair few players will be returning to the club,” Fernando said.
Firstly, the Mustangs need to finalise their coaching situation and Fernando expects to announce the first grade coach by next Friday November 30.
Then the Mustangs will commence pre-season training.
“We will have a better idea of our situation once we see who we have turning up to training,” Fernando said.
Fernando stood down from his position with the Mustangs at the end of the 2014 season to take on a coaching role of his son’s Kempsey Dragons junior team.
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