Thought it had to be them-NEW president Michael Shulman says Port Melbourne has some financial “challenges’’ but insists it is set for a strong year on and off the field.
Players and coaches have been asked to renegotiate their contracts as the Borough board seeks to rein in costs ahead of the 2017 VFL season.
It followed the club announcing a loss of $300,000 at its AGM in December, hit by reduced takings from its gaming venue The Rex Hotel in Port Melbourne and having two home games shifted from North Port Oval due to the condition of the ground.
A number of board members was voted out, making way for a group including accountant Shulman and former players Glenn Robertson and Adrian Bonaddio.
Peter Bromley survived as president but has been replaced by Shulman.
Port Melbourne officials met AFL Victoria bosses this month to discuss the club’s financial position.
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Shulman said Port would in the next few days announce an initiative of the players and coaches to help the club’s bottom line.
Port Melbourne has commitments from former St Kilda pair Eli Templeton and Brody Murdoch and ex-Williamstown forward Anthony Anastasio, but they are yet to sign.
Other key players haven’t put pen to paper but Shulman said he expected every player to be contracted by the end of the week.
The Borough have regained former AFL speedster Robin Nahas and Mitch Wooffindin and recruited ex-Carlton wingman Dillon Viojo-Rainbow and Williamstown premiership forward Dylan Conway.
Two-time JJ Liston Trophy champion Shane Valenti is also likely to return.
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It has been a turbulent off-season for the VFL, with Frankston losing its licence, North Ballarat considering pulling out of the league and suffering board instability, and Casey Scorpions changing their name to Casey Demons.
Shulman said it was becoming increasingly difficult for stand-alone clubs, making it essential for Port Melbourne to get its affairs in order.
but how can they afford all those players?
