Big Changes for 2009 Guantanamo Squad

Monday, 9th March 2009

On Wednesday, Racing Guantanamo will kick off the new Broome Soccer Association season by entering a squad in the annual Broomedesliga competition.

Last season the club managed to improve on their performances and gained a respectable 3rd place finish in the B-Liga competition, as well as 4th in the Broomedesliga Division 2.

With the new season looming, Guantanamo have made some on and off-field changes that will potentially shape the prospects of the ‘Most Likeable Club’ in the BSA.

The most notable change of the season is the new leadership structure in place at the club. Club founder Ryan Platten will step down from his position as Captain in order to take up a position as the BSA Game Day Tsar, making way for new Captain Andy Smyth. Smyth, whose experience and wisdom has been a mainstay of the Guantanamo defence since early 2008, will bring a more competitive mindset to the Mighty Oranges.

Vice Captain Tim Gray has also stepped down to take up the position as BSA Treasurer. While his resignation has already been announced, the club has not decided on a replacement, and will rely on the new captain to make the decision.

On the field, the club have made several key signings.

In: Martin Kessler (Germany), Terry Raganoonan (Jamaica), Kane Fitzpatrick (Australia)

Out: Jorge Pereira (Retired), Joe Tighe (On Loan to Broome Saints), Adam Shanley (Perth), Greg Blackmore (England), Ben Walker (England), Nicky Anear (On Loan to Rambo Caledonian Athletic Thistle), Luke Turner (On Loan to Rambo Caledonian Athletic Thistle), Jon Falconer (On Loan to Rambo Caledonian Athletic Thistle)

In Martin Kessler, the club have picked out a techinically gifted and dedicated midfielder who will control the pace of the game. Terry Raganoonan adds a Carribbean flair to the side and could be a handful up front if given the space while the sheer pace and fitness of Kane Fitzpatrick will always cause a headache for any opposition.

A sense of overwhelming optimism prevails around the club, and it is hoped that this season will be one of further improvement for the Mighty Oranges.