When Boroondara Eagles appointed Shaun Ontong as an early-season replacement for the outgoing Fil Simao, the club was taking a punt on an unproven manager.
It was the 28-year-old’s debut senior role – having served an apprenticeship in India under Arthur Papas – and his first ever involvement in women’s football.
Yet over six months later, the club is on the verge on an historic treble under the former Young Socceroo, with just Sunday’s WPL Grand Final against South Melbourne awaiting.
“This season has been positive in many ways. It has been challenging, but rewarding. I have really enjoyed taking my own team on. I realise I have a lot to learn, but I’m excited for the challenges ahead,” Ontong said.
“I knew that coming into a new team, it was going to be very important to get a few good results. This helped the players buy into the direction I wanted to go.
“I follow and trust a process that I’ve learnt from my time in Football. Each week, I try tick as many boxes off as I can.
“Nothing guarantees you success, but how can I expect the players to give 100% each training and game if I’m not willing to do the same?
“I have a great bunch of players that are desperate to learn and improve. They are always asking me for extra training or to sit with them and go over the film for feedback.
Ontong praised the club that was willing to offer him a first opportunity in senior management, believing he had accordingly repaid the faith with his positive results.
“I believe you are a product of your environment,’ he said.
“I’m fortunate enough to have some very special people around me. Manny Koutroulis and Graeme Smith run a fantastic club.
“I’m very lucky to be a part of a setup that appreciates and does so much for women’s football in the state.
“Before this experience, I had never worked in women’s football. The support, advice and guidance throughout the year from both has been invaluable.”
With just South Melbourne standing between a season clean sweep, Ontong is confident his side won’t stumble at the final hurdle, saying they have prepared as best as possible to achieve title glory against the reigning champions.
“Like all year, we have approached each game on its on merits and will trust the process that has gotten us to this point,” he said.
“I have watched South enough times this season to understand their strengths and weaknesses.
“There is no doubt South are a strong team. They have good depth and are balance throughout their squad.”
“In saying that, South are adamant on labelling themselves “underdogs”. For me, thats just a way of deflecting pressure. We have earnt the right to be in this final and we will be prepared either way.”