| Jon Foley-Donoghue looking forward to 2012 season in black and white |
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| Written by Walter Pless | Monday, 30 January 2012 15:13 | |
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Photo: Jon Foley-Donoghue goes through his paces at Zebras training [PlessPix] Jon Foley-Donoghue, 25, is one of Tilford Zebras’ new recruits for the 2012 Premier League season.
I spoke to Jon shortly after the team returned from their pre-season tour to Brisbane, a trip which, unfortunately, was a washout.
Photo: Foley-Donoghue in a battle for possessiona gainst Launceston United [PlessPix]
Walter Pless: Which clubs have you played for?
Jon Foley-Donoghue: I have played for South Hobart, Uni and now Hobart Zebras in the Southern Premier-League. As well, I played for Old Actonians in the Southern Amateur League in London.
WP: Why the switch to Tilford Zebras? JF-D: Zebras have given me a fresh start with a brilliant bunch of lads and an excellent coach in Eamonn Kelly. 2011 was a difficult season for me and I struggled to play anywhere near the levels I know I am capable of. 2012 sees me as fit as I have ever been and eager to win games in black and white.
WP: Do you prefer football or Futsal?
JF-D: I love both Futsal and football. In order to perform my best in outdoor, however, I will only be playing Futsal during the off-season. I have been leading the Black Panthers (2011 super league champions) as player/coach on and off for around ten years. I have also played and coached in numerous Tasmanian teams with Vikings, coaching the under 16s to second in 2007/08 and playing against Thailand and New Zealand being some of the highlights.
Photo: Foley-Donoghue in possession in his favourite central-midfield role [PlessPix]
WP: The trip to Queensland was beset by problems with the weather. Did the team still get something out of it? JF-D: Queensland, even without the games we were hoping for, was a great opportunity to get to know all the lads and build more team spirit and chemistry. Football-wise, we watched Brisbane Roar train and play, which allowed us to contrast our sessions with theirs. We have definitely picked up a few things. But, it was also great to see that Brisbane were doing things we do as well.
WP: What is your favourite position and playing system? JF-D: I prefer centre midfield in a 4-4-2 or 4-3-3.
WP: How do you think the Zebras will go this season?
JF-D: There is a real buzz around the club, and everyone is working hard to achieve big things. This starts from the committee, where Nick and co deserve a big wrap for getting Mr. Kelly and Mr. Harrison, as well as working to get us to Queensland. It continues with the dedication and desire of the Premier League side and goes right through all the teams. I have seen the effort that the women's teams, reserves and 19s have been putting in over the off-season and I'm sure it will pay off. Every team at Zebras will be going into games playing to win. Personally, I want to win everything - Summer Cup, State-wide Cup and, most importantly, the league title.
Photo: Foley-Donoghue listening to instructions from Zebras assistant coach Nick Harrison [PlessPix]
WP: Are you going to Wednesday's A-League game in Launceston? JF-D: Unfortunately, I will be working and then training on Wednesday.
WP: What do you do for a living? JF-D: I work as a Barista at Oomph! In Liverpool Street.
How important to you is football? JF-D: Football makes me happy, Walter. I have made it a priority.
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| Last Updated on Monday, 30 January 2012 16:57 | |
Comments
co- captain maybe? bring on 2012 all zebra people get behind ur club NOW! memberships and merchandise find the time to watch the local game give them your support.
Are Cripps and Tex playing???
Pretty sure both are playing, but neither could make the qld trip.
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