First Grade Table

Youth Grade Table

One on One with... Julio Miranda

Tell us a little about yourself?

I was born in Chile, where I lived for the first 13 years of my life . Married with 3 kids, all boys, Jack, Sam & Max.

I live in Woonona, and have my own business in the mining industry.

Football wise, I played for Wollongong Macedonia in the late 80's, but due to studies I decided to play in the local competition with Bulli. I was there for 4 years, and then moved to Wollongong Olympic for another 4 years. I had one season (mid life crisis) down at Warilla, before moving to Balgownie as a player.

After a season I took over as a Player/coach, and had a fairly successful stint over the next 3 years of coaching there.

What players have impressed you so far this pre season?

Young players like Julian Sivikofky has been very impressive, as well as youth grade players Keaton Noakes, Josh Gregory and Simon Becker.

Old heads Luke Gordon and Mr McGoo have shown great commitment to training, and I hope this rubs onto the younger players.

You spent 3 successful seasons at Balgownie, was the time right for a change?

Most definitely. Great bunch of blokes and a good social club. However, getting too comfortable in your surroundings can perhaps have its downfall on coaches. I was looking for a new challenge and coaching Wests will definitely be a huge one.

Is it true your wife Leanne has never seen you play or coach?

Not entirely. I think she's watched me play once. She would always turn up 5 minutes before full time to pick me up, so does that classify as watching a game?

Tell West's supporters what you can bring to the club this season and beyond?

Well perhaps being at such a big club like Wests, there are always expectations, so I hope to bring some success to the club. I'm a coach who's big on discipline, and who expects players to work hard for the team and themselves.

What is the Julio Miranda style of play?

Style of play……well being a south American I want to see a good brand of football being played. El JUEGO BONITO!!

I have heard that you have previously been registered at Balgownie to play if numbers are thin, any chance you may play in the Devils colours this season?

Well I'm 37 now and try to keep myself fit in some ways, but it would be hard. Although I wouldn't rule it out, if we had a major shortage in numbers for whatever reason…as long as the committee is ok with it!!

Who is your favourite overseas team?

Everton

Favourite player growing up?

Michel Platini

You coach with NSW soccer and also 2 nights a week with West's, does your family see you at all?

Well it's hard especially having 3 young kids, but I always make sure I put the time aside for the family. It must be working my, wife hasn't left me yet!!

Read more...