5 Minutes with Peter Ashcroft – New Head Coach of Tuggeranong Hawks
Peter ‘Yoey’ Ashcroft has been named Head Coach of the Tuggeranong Hawks Football Club for 2018.
A Tuggeranong Legend, Peter has played over 350 club games for the Hawks, including 113 senior games. The club made note of his passion, commitment, work ethic and high standards that are sure to be reflected in his new role.
“Yoey has a strong vision for the Club, both on and off the field and the Hawks’ are confident we have selected the right person to develop our playing group and take our club forward” Vice President Gerrit Wanganeen said.
We spent 5 minutes with Peter to discover his goals for 2018 and what he likes to eat for breaky. Check it out:
Where does the nickname “Yoey” come from?
It goes way back to my first ever game. I was running down the wing, went to bounce the ball on the ground and it came up like a yo-yo. The story behind it isn’t as interesting as everyone thinks, but the name has stuck with me.
First game of footy?
I played my first game for the Hawks when I was 19 in 1996. I was a late starter. I had played basketball in school but was very attracted to club mentality and culture of AFL. That sense of community and family feel really struck a chord. It becomes much bigger then just a game.
Who do you barrack for?
The Bombers are my No.1. Definitely a supporter of the Giants too.
Goals for 2018?
I want to reset ourselves as a club on a few levels and get people back and involved. I also want to focus on the Juniors and bringing them into the fold. I want to make sure we are all moving together, heading in the same direction.
Game day breakfast?
Can’t go past a bacon and egg roll and a coffee!
What makes a good coach?
Someone who is able to communicate well with people. I think you need to recognise that not everyone has the same personality traits, so to know how to identify and work with that. Having good working relationships with not only the players, but the support staff and people in the club is also really important.
Highlight of coaching the U15’s?
One of the most rewarding things was watching the kids come together, bond and look after each other especially in tough times. One of the player’s Dad has cancer, so they decided to all shave their heads to support their mate. It shows they were behind him and his family. That was really special.
Favourite show to binge-watch?
Game of Thrones, I can’t get enough of it.
We wish Peter all the best for the 2018 season.
