Gods state coach

HOW appropriate Michael Godden was unveiled as the SANFL state coach at the BrightonRd home of the Tigers.
He spent three years with Glenelg where his reputation grew significantly and he became a sort-after coach after claiming two reserves flags.

When Woodville-West Torrens began the search for a new coach for the 2010 season, Godden was the man in their spotlight. And the Eagles' judgment has proved spot on, losing the preliminary final that year before conquering Central District in the grand final last year.

Now his career has gained another notch, taking on state job to prepare for the clash against Western Australia at Brighton Rd on May 26.

"It is an honour to have this opportunity and it is something I cherish pretty dearly," Godden said. "I'm passionate about the SANFL and passionate about getting back in the winner's circle.

"It was a no brainer for me (to accept) as soon as the job became available.

"The main thing is we have a chairman of selectors and he will have the last say. I will be part of the building of the squad but that is where it ends. I will get 22 players to coach on the day.

"I would not want players to think I don't rate them as high as others - that could cause something internal which you don't want. Which is why I have told the players very strongly that that is not the case. If they get selected they deserve it and then I'll coach on the day.

"We have players who deserve to be in the squad but so do other clubs and we have to put the best side out there to beat WA."

Godden is the first club coach to be in charge of the state side since 2002 when Stephen Williams held the position while preparing the Port Adelaide Magpies.

The former West Adelaide player has coached the state under 20 side and was an assistant to Darel Hart when SA lost to WA In Perth four years ago.

And he is adamant he wants only players in the squad who share a similar passion for the SANFL.

"First and foremost we have got to make sure the players are passionate for the competition," Godden said.

"It does not mater how good they are. If they are not prepared to put it on the line when we play WA then I am not interested in playing them.

"I want the selection panel to go for competitive over what the public would say are the better players."

A squad of about 30 players will be selected to prepare for the match with 22 required on the day.

Godden believes playing the game on the small Glenelg ground will be an advantage for the home side.