With a full pre-season behind him, Swinburne FC senior men’s coach Joel Kleber is full of belief heading into his second year in charge.

After a steady start, his side is unbeaten and starting to find its rhythm. “We had a bit of a sluggish start,” Kleber said. “Two draws that we probably should’ve won. But since then, we’ve really fired up.”

Kleber isn’t afraid to talk up his team’s form.

“I honestly think we’re playing the best football in the league,” he said. “We just need to start finishing off our chances in the final third. But defensively we’ve been fantastic, seven scored, four conceded, that says a lot.”

He’s confident the Burners can push for the pointy end of the table.

“I think we’ll be top two,” he said. “South Yarra looks like a strong side, but they haven’t played us yet. I back us to rise to the level when it matters.”

Last year, Kleber came in late in pre-season. This time around, with a full pre-season and a stronger connection with the group, he feels much better prepared.

“I know the boys better, and they know me. The trust is there now,” he said. “Last year we actually played some good football but had a bit of bad luck and faded with injuries late on.”

Training standards across all three senior squads, Metro 2, Metro 6, and Metro 9 have lifted as well.

“The whole club’s training really well,” Kleber said. “We’ve got a no dickheads policy, everyone’s a top bloke. It makes a massive difference. If you’re a coach wanting to learn, this is the perfect place. Good players who want to listen, want to learn.”

The results are starting to reflect that environment.

“The reserves are unbeaten and playing great football,” he said. “The thirds have had some good wins too. I genuinely think two of our three teams can finish top two and there’s no reason the thirds can’t be top four.”

Kleber’s proud of the club’s identity and the way all three teams try to play.

“We play fair. We play the right way. We get on the ball, pass it around, and have a great team spirit.”

As for individual performers, a few names are already standing out.

“Logan’s been a real surprise. He started at right back and just keeps getting better. Great on the ball — I honestly think he could play State One next year,” Kleber said.

But more than anything, it’s the team’s overall effort that has Kleber excited.

“Everyone’s contributing. The last couple of games especially, it’s been a proper team performance,” he said.

With belief in the system and a squad that’s buying in, Kleber isn’t setting limits.

“We’re only going to get better from here. We’re here to play good football and win games.”

To listen to the full interview head to our YouTube channel.