It’s easy to forget that North Launceston’s recent dominance of the State League came off the back of five years at the bottom of the ladder.
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After joining the competition in 2009, the Bombers finished between sixth and eighth every year until 2014, when they came from a third-place finish to claim their first flag in 16 years.
North have made every grand final since and have the chance to secure their third premiership in four years on Saturday when they host fellow Bombers Lauderdale.
It’s a remarkable turnaround, and one president Thane Brady says is a culmination of setting high standards on and off the ground.
“Having been involved in our club rebuild commencing late 2009 my view is it’s more difficult remaining at the top end of the competition,” Brady said.
“Making the grand final for the fourth year in a row in the state’s highest competition is just another stepping stone achievement in our continuous journey to create opportunities and challenge ourselves.
“We have and will continue to invest in improving our junior program and development programs as our best chance of maintaining our current standing in the TSL.”
The Bombers have been blessed with elite leaders during their reign, with Brisbane development coach Zane Littlejohn leading the club to back-to-back flags in his third and fourth years with the club.
Former Melbourne player Tom Couch took over the reins upon Littlejohn’s departure late last year and the club has showed no signs of slowing down, dropping just two games on its way to the minor premiership.
Couch was named TSL coach of the year earlier this month and will be determined to add to his credentials in Saturday’s decider.
“We are all very proud of Tom’s achievement,” Brady said.
“Tom’s experience as a player at AFL and VFL combined with his professional knowledge in strength and conditioning has enabled our club to embrace new ideas (and) we have attempted to distribute Tom’s methods throughout the club’s football programs.
“Tom demonstrates every week how good a player he is and within the club Tom has developed relationships with players and his coaching staff with all working together for the common goal.”
And just as much as the season so far has been about working together, North will relish the chance to celebrate together should Brady’s side taste grand final success.
“Winning the flag provides a sense of pride to so many people both directly and indirectly involved with the club... it’s difficult to explain.”