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ANY time Wayne Mitrovic had the opportunity to pull on an inter-league jumper, it was a game to be relished.
“I’ve always been one who put my hand up to play inter-league footy… I really enjoyed the challenge, the camaraderie and trying to push yourself at a better standard,” Mitrovic said on Friday.
“It was always a great experience to be part of.”
It won’t be as a player, but Mitrovic has been given the chance to get back involved in inter-league this year.
Mitrovic was this week announced as the new Loddon Valley inter-league coach for its AFL Victoria Community Championships away match against Horsham District on Saturday, May 18.
I really enjoyed the challenge, the camaraderie and trying to push yourself at a better standard
- Wayne Mitrovic
Inter-league coaching isn’t new to Mitrovic, having previously coached the Golden Rivers representative team.
Mitrovic is also a former Golden Rivers inter-league captain, and has also pulled on the Blue and Gold jumper of the Bendigo league, including in 2003 in a game against Geelong on the MCG.
“Now that the Loddon Valley is back in inter-league, I’m really keen to get in and support it and really get that passion for inter-league footy again,” Mitrovic said.
“I’m not sure what the league’s stance is in regards to players making themselves available, but back home when I coached Golden Rivers I said to throw the fines or whatever out the window, I only want the blokes who want to play.”
After a two-year absence Loddon Valley last season returned to inter-league action with a 44-point win over Mitrovic’s former team, Golden Rivers, at the QEO.
Mitrovic will juggle his inter-league role while also coaching Maiden Gully YCW.
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