Falcons keep faith in Monaghan
Bill Monaghan is set to become the longest-serving coach in West Perth's 128-year history after signing a new three-year contract with the club this week.
The Falcons offered Monaghan a deal that will see his tenure extended to 2016, marking eight years at the helm since taking over from Todd Curley.
The legendary Stan "Pops" Heal coached the club for six years from 1947.
Monaghan's reappointment followed an extensive review of club operations and the football department, which culminated in the coach making a detailed presentation to the board last month.
He presented his blueprint for the future of the club, including game styles, junior programs and areas in need of improvement.
The former Subiaco and Peel defender, who played 118 WAFL games, has guided the Falcons to second spot on the ladder for the second time in three years and boasts a 56 per cent winning record in his five seasons to date.
But he doesn't have much time to reflect on his place in West Perth history, with a second semifinal against minor premiers Claremont in a fortnight.
"That's obviously something that I'll sit back at some stage and reflect upon," Monaghan said.
"But I guess the difficult part of signing a contract at this time of the year is that we're firmly focused on the job at hand, and that's Swan Districts this week and then finals.
"So whether I'm the longest serving coach or not, my job doesn't change."
Monaghan's focus is on trying to turn around West Perth's disappointing record in finals since their last premiership in 2003.
They have been beaten in their past five finals matches, including two in 2011.
"We need to continue to work on trying to achieve some success, and success can be measured in a lot of ways," he said.
"Generally people measure that on wins and losses, and what ends up in the trophy cabinet."
West Perth president Brett Raponi said Monaghan's appointment would bring stability to the club, which has also been boosted by a new five-year sponsorship deal with Lend Lease worth $250,000.
The City of Joondalup and State Government also have committed $8 million for new facilities at Arena Joondalup.
