Hear from the Fire's new Director of Coaching, Richard Hudson

In an effort to expand our coaching operations for the upcoming season, the Sunshine Coast Fire has introduced a full-time Director of Coaching position for the 2011 campaign.

Richard Hudson was recently appointed to the position. Hudson has acted as a senior coach locally, guiding the Coolum Dolphins and Noosa Lions in previous years, and also possesses overseas experience in managing football academies. 

Although coaching the senior team will be a major priority for Hudson, providing new opportunities for young players will also be an important aspect.

“We are looking at forming an elite youth academy for all ages, as well as holding coaching clinics here and overseas. The job will also involve overseeing the Under-19 Fire side, as well as the Gympie Fire,” Hudson said.

With the Fire gearing up for a title defence, much of Hudson’s focus thus far has been on preparing and selecting the senior squad for 2011, and getting accustomed to the club. 

“My experience with the Fire has been excellent to this point. We have some great talent pushing for selection in the senior team, although we haven't yet whittled the squad down completely.”

“All the signs so far point to a successful season.”

Hudson’s job will also involve furthering the Fire’s brand overseas, with coaching clinics to be held in the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.

The expansion of the Fire brand into the South Pacific, as well as the club’s links with Japanese football could generate international prospects for the Fire’s young squad members.

“It’s all about increasing opportunities for our players - there will be an international pathway available for those players who put their hand up,” Hudson said.

In the short term, preparing the Fire for the upcoming HQSL season is top priority. The Clem Jones Shield will be contested in February, a four team pre-season tournament where the Fire will do battle with old foes the Brisbane Strikers, as well as new teams in the Gold Coast Stars and Southern Cross United.

The competition will be a good chance to see the new teams in action before the season proper kicks off on March 12.

Our first Shield fixture is against Southern Cross United, and will take place on Saturday, February 5 at Meakin Park in Slacks Creek. Kick-off is set for 6pm.