Kimber to extend Cobras glory

By Gavin Staindl and Paul Pickering
BRENDAN Kimber has been appointed as the new senior coach of the Cora Lynn Football Club after long-time boss Chris Toner opted to return to his home club Narre Warren.
Kimber, who worked under Toner as assistant coach, was given the nod last week.
According to committeeman Terry Dillon, the two-time best and fairest winner and high school teacher was ideal for the job given his honed communication skills and his reputation among the players and community.
“We didn’t advertise for the position because we wanted to target someone who would fit our values,” Dillon said.
“Brendan is the ideal person to take over. He has great communication skills, a fantastic rapport with the players and general supporters and the committee believes in his natural leadership qualities,” Dillon said.
Kimber, 25, said he was delighted to be chosen for the role.
“It is an honour and I’m delighted to be in a position where I can continue the family and positive culture brought in under Chris,” Kimber said.
“I’m getting awesome support from the players and coaches and there is a massive buzz around the club.
“I just can’t wait to get into it,” he said.
But Kimber will enter his fourth year at the Cobra Dome with the added pressure of expectation.
After three-consecutive grand finals appearances and one premiership (2008), Kimber will be looked upon to continue the most successful era in Cora Lynn football.
After five years at Cora Lynn, Toner departs to Narre Warren where he will become head coach.
Toner said on Monday that he couldn’t resist the timing of taking over from his good mate and reigning premier-ship coach Matt Shinners at Fox Road, where he previously spent the best part of 15 years as a player and reserves coach.
“(Cora Lynn) is a terrific club and I really enjoyed my time there, but I think after five years enough was enough,” he said.
“Matt and I were best man at each other’s weddings, so I had a fair idea he was finishing at the end of the year, so I thought I’d better take it now or I’ll probably never get the chance.”
Toner added that the Cobras were in good hands with Kimber at the helm.
“I knew three months out that it was probably going to be my last year, so I was trying to educate Brendan as best I could so he was able to take over,” he said.
“One thing we’re mindful of with Cora Lynn is that it’s a pretty transient kind of club and we want to have sustained success at that club, so I think it’s worked out well for both parties.”