Adelaide Crows

First Semi Final Collingwood v Adelaide

densham — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 01:10:04 -0500

By Kim Densham in Melbourne for AFANA.

All the action from the first semi- final match between a confident Adelaide Crows and a twitchy Collingwood team. Adelaide coming off 2 outrageous wins having kicked 26 goals against Carlton and 25 goals against Essendon. Collingwood staring a straights sets defeat having lost to the minor premiers St Kilda the week before.

Semi-Finals Preview 2009

admincms — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 12:56:18 -0500

AFL Finals Week 2 Last week 3 from 4 in the first finals round tipping. What a week it was, first round of finals over, two are out and six remain to play The Magpies and the Bulldogs, both have a second chance, but both must win to play another day. The fallout from the first week ended so bizarre, with Juddy getting rubbed out for three weeks It wasn’t quite an eye gouge, some fingers in the face, looked like he gave the space behind his ear a tweak! Experts in the martial arts came from near and far and to the case they gave their learned call, To me it looked like Juddy was at the ten pin alley and was simply reaching for the bowling ball. It doesn’t really matter because Carlton lost a game one that we agree they should have won So at the beginning of the season when they said the Blues would come little did we know they would be gone! Western Bulldogs V Brisbane Lions – MCG Friday Night As good as the Lions were last week they would have to lift to another level to beat the Doggies in this game. Brisbane have won their last two games coming from huge deficits and this will tell when they Play the Western Bulldogs at the G. If I was a betting man I would be putting $1000 on the Dogs to win this at 35+ points. Brisbane is not and has not been in the same class as the Doggies all year why do you think it would change for this game? It won’t. Western Bulldogs by 41 Collingwood V Adelaide – MCG Saturday Night Well half of Africa may have woken up this morning starving so what have we to complain about? Well I’ll tell you. If the Pies lose it will be due to the fact that they received 2 days’ less rest than the Crows leading into this game. Trust me, that will be the excuse and good cause for complaint. However, I am of the opinion that Adelaide has been lulled into a false sense of security with games against Carlton and Essendon in the previous two weeks winning by a combined total of about 168 points! The Crows are the 5th best team in the competition and that will be pointed out to them in this game by the 4th best team in the competition. We all complain about the lack of justice in the world today well here’s a perfect example. Justice not only needs to be seen to be done but must be done. Adelaide cannot and should not win this game. Will not win this game! It will be a heart stopper though. Collingwood by 11

AFL Web Site to Carry Indigenous Stars Match Live

admincms — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 00:00:57 -0600

The AFL has announced that the match between the Qantas Indigenous All Stars and the Adelaide Crows will have live video coverage on the AFL web site http://www.afl.com.au at no charge to visitors beginning at 4:15 AM US/CAN EST (8.15 PM AEDT) on Saturday 7 February. You will not need to be a subscriber to the AFL web site international subscription package or the Aussie Sport TV package (now the same) in order to view this video. For those concerned about whether they will be able to use the AFL web site video this season, this might be a great opportunity to test things out. Radio coverage will also be available and as always, is free.

Pre NAB Cup News

Lisa Albergo — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 19:46:02 -0600

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

AFL Awards Life Memberships
The league is set to hold their annual AGM in March, at which time they will present 10 past and present players with AFL life memberships.The announcement was made recently with seven current players reaching the required 300 games. They are Adelaide's Tyson Edwards, North Melbourne's Brent Harvey, Sydney's Michael O'Loughlin, Richmond's Matthew Richardson, Melbourne's Adem Yze and senior field umpires Shane McInerney and Stephen McBurney. The other three to be honored are AFL Hall of Fame Legend Darrel Baldock, former AFL Commissioner Colin Carter and former Hawk president Ian Dicker. For service to the game as a player, coach and administrator, St. Kilda's Gary Colling will receive the Jack Titus Service Award, named for the Richmond champion.

Honoree details:

Tyson Edwards: 289 games, 30 preseason games, one State of Origin game, two International Rules games, 1997 & 1998 premierships

Brent Harvey: 264 games, 27 preseason games, two State of Origin games, nine International Rules games, 1999 premiership; club best & fairest 2003, 2005, 2007, 2008; All-Australian 2000, 2005, 2007, 2008 (captain), 1999 EJ Whiten Medal (best on ground for Victoria in State of Origin), 2003 Jim Stynes Medal (best on ground in International Rules)

Stephen McBurney (AFL Umpire): debuted 1993, 287 games, one State of Origin, two International Rules games, 35 preseason games; Grand Finals 2002, 2003, 2007; All-Australian Umpire 2003, 2007, International Rules Series 2008

Shane McInerney (AFL Umpire): debuted 2003, 268 games, 38 preseason games, Grand Finals 2004 & 2007

Michael O'Loughlin: 286 games, 14 preseason games, two State of Origin games; four International Rules games, 2005 Premiership, 1998 club best & fairest, club leading goalkicker 2000-2001, club games record holder, All-Australian 1997 & 2000, 1998 Fos Williams Medal (best on ground for South Australia in State or Origin), Indigenous Team of the Century

Matthew Richardson: 276 games, 20 preseason games, four Four State of Origin games, two International Rules games, 2007 club best and fairest; club leading goalkicker 1994, 1996-99, 2001-2008; All-Australian 1996, 1999, 2008; 1996 Jesaulenko Medal (best on ground for Allies in State of Origin ((Allies team from states other than Victoria, SA or WA- Richardson from Tasmania)) ; Richmond Team of the Century

Adem Yze: 271 games, 25 preseason games, four International Rules games, 2001 club best and fairest, 2002 All-Australian

Darrel Baldock: 71 games for Played 71 games for East Devonport (Tasmania) 1955-58, 158 games for LaTrobe 1959-61 & 1969-74, 119 games & 237 goals for St. Kilda 1962-68, 4 games for New Norfolk 1975, 10 games & 23 goals for Victoria, 15 games for Tasmania, East Devonport best and fairest 1955-57; St. Kilda best and fairest 1962, 1963, 1965; St Kilda premiership 1966; LaTrobe premierships 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972; St Kilda captain 1963-68, St Kilda leading goalkicker 1962-65 All Australian 1961 & 1966 (captain), St Kilda Team of the Century (center half-forward and captain), Tasmanian Team of the Century (half forward and captain).

Colin Carter: AFL Commissioner 1993-2008; Geelong FC Director 1987-93. Major achievements: Prepared the report 'Establishing the Basis for Future Success', adopted by the VFL Commission as the strategy for the competition, encompassing equalization, ground rationalization and growing the national competition. Initiated the project that led to the eventual relocation of the AFL Members from Waverley to the MCG and the building of the Great Southern Stand. Led the AFL's review of football development and grassroots football in 2001.

Ian Dicker: Hawthorn FC President 1996-2005. In his time as president, the club reached record membership levels, shifted home games from Waverley to the MCG, eliminated debt,.introduced educational and life skills programs for players to prepare them for life after retirement, built strong ties with VFL affiliate Box Hill, entered agreement to play "home" games in Tasmania

Source: Patrick Keane, AFL Media Release

Australia Day Honors
January 22 is Australia Day and, on that day, annual honors are awarded. AIS/AFL Academy High Performance Coach Alan McConnell was awarded the Australian Sports Commission 2009 Australia Day Achievement Medallion. McConnell, who has been with the Academy since 2005, oversees the programs which help identify young football talent. One of those programs is the annual draft camp. It is these programs from which players are drawn for the Under-16 tournaments. Other programs help prepare young players for the draft and the transition to AFL ranks. Some current players who came through those prgrams include Western Bulldog Adam Cooney (2008 Brownlow Medal winner), Hawk Lance Franklin (2008 Coleman Medal and premiership), and Hawk Luke Hodge (2008 Norm Smith Medal for GF best on ground). Eight of the ten top draft picks at the 2008 November draft were Academy graduates. The Academy, which has been going for 12 years, has produced 240 AFL players and at least 75% of Academy graduates are offered AFL contracts.

According to league CEO Andrew Demetriou, McConnell was "....recognized.....for his outstanding contribution to the...development of talented athletes....". Demetriou also said the AFL was "...thrilled to have had a person of Alan's qualities to guide...talented junior players....". Demetriou also praised McConnell's leadership within the development programs.

McConnell, who played 38 games with the Bulldogs 1980-82, was a physical education teacher with a strong AFL coaching background. He He spent six years with Fitzroy as an assistant and served as "caretaker" senior coach in 1995 after Bernie Quinlan was fired and again in 1996 when Mick Nunan was fired as senior coach. After Fitzroy merged with Brisbane at the end of 1996, McConnell went to Geelong where he served as an assistant coach 1997-2003.

Source: Patrick Keane, AFL Media Release

2009 NAB Cup Trial Rules
Two new rules will be introduced in this year's preseason competition, while another, introduced in 2008 will continue. The rules are:

- a free kick will now be awarded for any deliberate rushed behind

- umpires will award a 50 meter penalty (55 yards) in addition to a free kick for players who tackle or hold an opponent after the opponent has disposed of the football, for the purpose of preventing them from taking part in the next act of play or being able to get to the next contest

- continue the trial of the no-go zone behind umpires at center bounces to decrease the incidents of player-umpire contact. This rule was introduced in 2008 and will again be used to monitor the incidents of player contact with umpires at center bounces.

AFL Operations Manager Adrian Anderson explained that these rules were introduced after extensive consultation and discussion of options. According to Anderson, the issue of rushed behinds was raised by clubs and coaches, with some believing the tactic negatively impacted the game. It became a very hot topic after the 2008 game between Essendon and Richmond in which defender Joel Bowden deliberately took the ball over the line for a rushed point twice in the dying minutes of the game. Anderson also said that since free kicks already are awarded for deliberately putting the ball out of bounds around the ground, the league decided to use that criteria for rushed points.

Regarding the free kick after disposal of the ball, Anderson said this was in response to a trend which sees players who have disposed of the ball being unfairly hindered by an opponent. Anderson also said that in such cases, a free kick has not always been an effective deterrent.

As always, the trial rules will be evaluated and feedback from the clubs will be sought. The league will then decide whether or not to introduce those rules for the season proper.

Source: Patrick Keane, AFL Media Release

Tribunal Changes
The AFL and the Tribunal will introduce stiffer penalties for high tackles and have made changes to the discount rule for cases which go directly to the Tribunal. The crackdown will be on players who sling opponents to the ground or into a boundary fence as well as players who push an opponent into the path of another player to cause a reportable offense. Previously, a player was only penalize for body contact if he had grabbed an opponent around the waist and then took him to ground. Now, if the opponent is "slammed" to the ground, the tackling player will be penalized with a stiffer penalty, especially if the opponent's head hits the ground as a result. Also, a player who pushes an opponent into the path of a third person can be held responsible for illegal contact rather than the initial shove.

As for the 25% discount for a player's guilty plea, the AFL has clarified this even more. The discount issue came to a head last year after Sydney's Barry Hall's hit on Eagle Brent Staker. The severity of the hit meant that the case was referred directly to the Tribunal rather than Hall having an option of accepting a decreed penalty. A remorseful Hall still got only seven weeks instead of 10 for pleading guilty and that caused a storm of controversy. This season, any case referred to the Tribunal will not be automatically allowed a discount for a guilty plea.

Since the introduction of the penalty system, a player would only face a fine for abusive, insulting, threatening or obscene behavior toward an umpire. This season, such behavior will result in a report and a Tribunal appearance.

Source: theaustralian.com.au

ADELAIDE
Injury Update:
Brett Burton, (knee) reconstruction), has resumed running
Brad Symes (wrist/thumb), will remain in a cast several weeks
Jason Porplyzia, shoulder, non-competitive training until March
Phil Davis, shoulder, non-competitive training
Richard Douglas, hip, will be eased back into full training over the next two weeks

Source: David Burtenshaw, Club Media Release

BRISBANE
Midfielder Simon Black will be sidelined for six weeks, ruling him out of the preseason competition. Black suffered a broken hand at a training session on February 2.

Source: foxsports.com.au

ST. KILDA
Star forward Nick Riewoldt underwent arthoscpic surgery on his knee at the end of January and will miss all of thr preseason. The knee began troubling hin recently during preseason training but the expects him to be fit and ready by the start of the season proper.

Source: Matt Schmidt, Club Media Release

Round 21 Tribunal Results

Lisa Albergo — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 08:01:39 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

TRIBUNAL

Charges Laid:

Max Rooke (GEEL): rough conduct against North Melbourne’s Sam Power: assessed as negligent conduct (one point), high impact (three points) and body contact (one point), equaling five activation points, a Level Three offense, 225 demerits and a two game suspension. His previous record of one game suspended within the past three years increases the penalty 10% to 247.50 demerits, still a two-game suspension. He accepted, reducing the penalty 25% to 185.63 demerits and a one game suspension.

Michael Firrito (NM), making an obscene gesture: fined $1200 for a first offense. He accepted, reducing the fine 25% to $900.

The match day report against Adelaide's Chris Knights for rough conduct against St Kilda's Shane Birss was assessed by the Match Review Panel. The MRP ruled that the contact was caused by circumstances beyond Knights’ control as he was pushed from behind and therefore not at fault. The charge was dismissed.

Source: Patrick Keane, AFL Media Release

Late Season AFL News

Lisa Albergo — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 11:56:48 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

GC17 Appoints Coach & Recruiter

Former Eagle and current Collingwood assistant coach Guy McKenna has been appointed as the senior coach for the new Gold Coast team on a two year contract. The GC17 team, as it is known at present until a permanent name is decided upon, is hoping to be granted an AFL license in October with 2011 as the target date for their AFL debut. McKenna was selected from a short list of four other candidates, including former Lion Brad Scott. McKenna will oversee the recruitment and development of the players selected for the new team. Players recruited to the GC17 team would continue to play in the Under-18 competition next year and in the VFL in 2010. GC17 franchise chairman John Witheriff said McKenna would also have a major say in the development of the club's culture. Both Witheriff and McKenna realize the challenges they face with McKenna saying there was a risk that he would not be reappointed as senor coach in 2011. Witheriff said McKenna was ideal for the job, pointing out his leadership qualities as well as his experience as an assistant coach.

McKenna played 267 games for West Coast 1988-2000 and played in the 1992 and 1994 premierships. He also captained the Eagles for two seasons. He played most of his career under Mick Malthouse who coached the Eagles for 10 seasons before his appointment as Collingwood coach. McKenna, upon retirement, served as an assistant with the Eagles for two seasons. He then coached WAFL club Claremont in 2003 before being appointed as an assistant coach at Collingwood, alongside Mick Malthouse.

Shortly after McKenna's appointment, Western Bulldogs recruiting manager Scott Clayton signed on as the recruiting manager for the next three years. Clayton also was the playing list manager with the Brisbane Lions and was instrumental in the development of the team which won three consecutive premierships. Clayton, who will take up the new position at the start of next year, will be responsible for building the team which will play in the juniors TAC competition in 2009 and in the VFL in 2010.

GC 17 Chairman John Witheriff said Clayton the best at what he does, pointing out Brisbane's success during his tenure there and the work he has done to help build the current talent with the Bulldogs. Clayton described the position with GC17 as a "great challenge" and an exciting opportunity to be part of building a team from the ground up.

The GC17 group has already signed five players. They signed three in July and their latest recruit is Jack Stanley, 18, said the idea of being able remain with his mates in Queensland helped in his decision to sign rather than try for the AFL Draft.

Source: afl.com.au, Melbourne Age & Greg Price, GC17 Media Release

Daniher Flies West

Former Melbourne coach Neale Daniher has joined the West Coast Eagles as Football Operations Manager. Since his departure as coach of the Melbourne Demons last year, he has served as CEO of the AFL Coaches Association. West Coast chairman Trevor Nisbett believes Daniher's skill and experience as a coach and administrator makes him the ideal person for the role. Daniher will begin his new job in November.
The appointment of Daniher came at the suggestion of current General Manager Steve Woodhouse who said the workload needed to be split between two people. Woodhouse will remain in charge of list management and player contracts while Daniher will oversee the team and general operations.

Source: Anna Carew-Reid, Club Media Release

Mal Michael to Hang Up Boots

Essendon defender Mal Michael has announced he will retire at the end of this season. Michael retired at the end of 2006, but decided to make a comeback and was picked up by Essendon in the 2007 preseason draft. Michael began his career on Collingwood's rookie list and debuted in 1997. He played 61 games for Collingwood before being traded to Brisbane at the end of 2000. He went on to play in Brisbane's 2001-2003 premiership sides. He played a total of 140 games for the Lions. Through Round 20, 2008, Michael has a total of 235 games to his name.

Jason Johnson will also retire at the end of the year. Johnson, who has played 182 games for the Bombers, has managed just two games this year due to injury. Johnson played in Essendon's 2000 premiership and was named All-Australian in 2003.

Coach Matthew Knights confirmed that Courtney Johns would be delisted at the end of the year. Johns, who could play forward and defense, battled a severe hip injury for two years and finally made his debut in 2005. He played just two games in 2007 for a total of 19 prior to 2008.

Source: afl.com.au

Lion Star Calls it A Day

Just ahead of Round 21, Nigel Lappin announced his retirement. Lappin, 32, played 279 games for Brisbane and is the fifth longest serving player for the club. Lappin has not played this year since Round Four due to a persistent achilles injury. That game was his first after being sidelined for most of 2006 after re-injuring his ankle during a practice game that year. His 2005 season ended prematurely when he dislocated his ankle.
He came back in 2007 to play 18 games.

Nigel was initially drafted to the then Brisbane Bears from the Victorian country town of Chiltern in 1993 and played 17 matches in his debut season - predominantly on the wing. His excellent fitness, speed and ball-winning ability at ground level and in the air made it very difficult for opponents to match up against him. By the end of the decade, Lappin joined the ranks of elite midfielders. Lappin, Michael Voss, Luke Power and Simon Black became known as the "Fab Four" of the midfield during Brisbane's all-conquering premiership years 2001-2003. He famously played in the 2003 Grand Final despite suffering a broken rib in the Preliminary Final. In 2001, he was named Brisbane's Best Finals Player. Lappin is a cousin to former Carlton player and current Carlton assistant coach Matthew Lappin.

NIGEL LAPPIN PLAYER HONORS
Games: 279
Goals: 174
Finals: 23
Draft Details: Selection No.2 - 1993 National Draft
AFL Debut: Brisbane Bears vs Fitzroy (Western Oval), Round 3 1994
Australian Asthma Sportsman of the Year 1998
Lions Club Champion Runner-Up 1997, 2000
Lions Club Champion Third Place 2001
All-Australian 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Lions Best Finals Player 2001
Lions Premiership Player 2001, 2002, 2003
International Rules Series 2001
Lions Club Champion 2004
Lions Life Member
Lions Co-Captain 2007, 2008

Source: Sam Lord, Club Media Release

Crow Comeback Fails

Rhett Biglands has retired from AFL football
Shortly after Round 20, Rhett Biglands announced his retirement. Biglands admitted that his career was virtually over two years ago after his first knee reconstruction in 2006 failed. Biglands went down with the initial injury in the 2006 preliminary final and then began the long road to recovery. However, the graft failed to heal properly and he also suffered a setback six weeks after the first surgery from a fall which did some more damage. He underwent a second knee reconstruction in February of this year.

Biglands, 30, was recruited from SANFL club Woodville-West Torrens and drafted by the Crows in 1999.He went on to play 134 games for Adelaide, including the 2003 preseason premiership. Biglands is considering a return to the SANFL and may also have a role with Adelaide's commercial and marketing operations. He spent some time during his rehabilitation in that area with the club.

Source: afl.com.au

Another Docker Says Farewell

Former Essendon midfielder and current Docker Mark Johnson announced he will retire at the end of the season. Johnson was elevated from Essendon's rookie list at the end of 1998. He debuted in 1999 and played 194 games for the Bombers and was drafted by the Dockers last year after being delisted by Essendon. At the end of the season, Johnson will have played 208 AFL games. Despite his limited impact with the Dockers, former Essendon player and current Fremantle Coach Mark Harvey said he had no regrets about picking up Johnson in last year's draft.

Johnson was a member of Essendon's 2000 preseason premiership team and their 2000 regular season. premiership team. He won a Rising Star nomination in 1999 and was Essendon's best and fairest in 2002.
Johnson is the fifth Docker to announce his retirement this year. The others are Peter Bell, Shaun McManus, Heath Black and Matthew Carr.

Source: Source: Melbourne Age

Significant Milestones

Western Bulldogs Coach Rodney Eade notched up his 500th game as a player and coach. The record comprises 229 games played for Hawthorn, 29 games played for the Brisbane Bears, 152 games coached at Sydney and 88 (through Round 21, 2008) as coach with the Bulldogs. He is only the 16th person to achieve the milestone.

The others are: Kevin Sheedy (886 games comprising 251 games as a player and 635 games as a coach), Jock McHale (878 games comprising 261 games as a player-player-coach and a further 617 games as a coach only), Leigh Matthews (791 games comprising 332 games a player and 459 games as a coach), Michael Malthouse (758 games comprising 174 games as a player and 582 games as a coach), David Parkin (729 games comprising 211 games as a player and 518 games as a coach), Ron Barassi (719 games comprising 254 games as a player / player-coach and a further 465 games as a coach only), Norm Smith (659 games comprising 227 games as a player and 432 games as a coach), Allan Jeans (652 games comprising 77 games as a player and 575 games as a coach), Robert Walls (606 games comprising 259 games as a player and 347 games as a coach), Tom Hafey (589 games comprising 67 games as a player and 522 games as a coach), John Kennedy (575 games comprising 164 games as a player and 411 games as a coach), Percy Bentley (546 games comprising 263 games as a player and 283 games as a coach), Dick Reynolds (517 games comprising 320 games as a player / player-coach and a further 197 games as a coach only), Phonse Kyne (511 games comprising 245 games as a player and 266 games as a coach) and Paul Roos (508 games comprising 356 games as a player and 152 games as a coach).

St. Kilda's Robert Harvey took over third spot on the all-time games list with his 379th game in Round 21, 2008. He sits just behind Michael Tuck (426 games with Hawthorn) and Kevin Bartlett (403 games with Richmond). He passes Simon Madden (378 games with Essendon) and Craig Bradley (375 games with Carlton).

Patrick Keane, Club Media Release

Umpire Retires

Martin Ellis, a veteran umpire of 242 games since 1996, announced he would retire at the end of the season. His 242 games includes seven finals and the 2001 Brisbane and Essendon. Ellis also officiated overseas exhibition game in 2002. Umpire Director Jeff Gieschen acknowledged Ellis' contribution, saying Ellis was one of the most consistent umpires over the past ten years.

Source: Patrick Keane, AFL Media Release

Robert Harvey Heads Retirement List

Lisa Albergo — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 17:00:15 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

Robert Harvey

St. Kilda champion Robert Harvey announced that he would retire at the end of the season. Harvey, who said telling his teammates was the hardest thing he had ever done, said he believed it was the right time to step aside to give younger players a chance and also said he was looking forward to spending more time with his wife and children. Harvey, who started his career at the age of 16 in 1988 described the Saints as his second family and the club as his second home. He believes the club is in good hands and confident of future success. At one stage, he joked that he might put in an appearance or two at preseason training....."just to keep fit..."

Harvey thanked his family for their support and thanked the club and supporters. Of his family, he said they had put up with a lot, but were always supportive. Of the club he said he was honored to have stretched out his career as long as did and would like to be remembered as someone who gave his all for and loved the club. He praised the supporters as some of the most passionate around and described that passion as inspirational and a big factor in why he kept going for so long.

Coach Ross Lyon, who actually played against Harvey during his playing days with Fitzroy, praised Harvey as one of the most respected and admired players in the game and described him as a consummate professional. He went on to say that Harvey would be remembered as a "...selfless team player who did whatever it took for the Saints to be successful...". He said Harvey would be greatly missed but well remembered by all fans. Carlton Coach Brett Ratten was a contemporary of Harvey's during their junior days. He described Harvey as a great role model and absolute champion and went on to say, "The game will miss Robert Harvey." Coach Lyon urged all fans to come out to the last few games to pay tribute to Harvey.

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou also lauded Harvey, thanking him for his contribution to the game. He said watching Harvey play was a pleasure for all fans and further praised Harvey's commitment to club and teammates. He continued, "...Harvey has been an example of sportsmanship, skill and dedication and...one of the great ambassadors for our competition" He said Harvey would bow out as one of the game's great champions and described his consistency to that of Tiger and Hawthorn greats Kevin Bartlett and Michael Tuck.

Harvey, 36, will be listed third on the all-time games list after Round 21. Round 22, should Harvey play all the remaining games, will be his 380th, just behind Michael Tuck (426) and Kevin Bartlett (403). He is also the only player in league history to poll Brownlow votes in 100 games or more and, prior to Round 19, had a career total of 305 votes.

ROBERT HARVEY
Draft: Recruited by St Kilda from its VCFL zone in 1988
Debut: 1988
Games: 376 (through Round 18)
Goals: 213 (through Round 18)

Honors: Brownlow Medal 1997, 1998; All-Australian 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2003; Club Best and Fairest 1992, 1994, 1997, 1998; preseason premierships 1996, 2004, 2008; Michael Tuck Medal (best on ground in preseason premiership) 2004; EJ Whitten Medal (Victoria's best on ground in State of Origin games) 1992, 1993, 1996; AFLPA MVP 1997; International Rules Series 1998.

Source: Matt Schmidt, Club Media Release & Melbourne Age

Fraser Gehrig

Not unexpectedly, forward Fraser Gehrig announced his retirement after his comeback this season with the Saints was unsuccessful. Gehrig announced his retirement at the end of the 2007 season, but decided to give it one more shot after just one month. Gehrig, due to arthritis in his hands which was aggravated in wet and/or cold weather, played just five games this year and the club put him on the long-term injury list in May after he underwent hand surgery. Gehrig said he had no regrets about his attempted comeback, but does regret not having had the chance to play in a premiership team.

Gehrig debuted for West Coast in 1995 and played 115 games and kicked 159 goals before joining St. Kilda at the end of 2000. He was West Coast's leading goalkicker in 1998 and won a Rising Star nomination in 1995. Gehrig played 145 games with the Saints and kicked 390 goals for St. Kilda. He led the club's goalkicking 2003-2007 and won the Coleman Medal in 2004 and 2005. Gehrig won St. Kilda's best and fairest award in 2001 and was named All-Australian in 1997 and 2004. He played in St. Kilda's 2004 preseason premiership.

Source: afl.com.au

Heath Black

Fremantle's Heath Black, sidelined with a shoulder injury, announced his retirement ahead of the Round 19 game. Black, who has played just six games in 2008, said injuries had finally caught up with him. He also had an injury-interrupted preseason and had been considering the decision to retire all year.

Black was drafted by the Dockers in 1996 and played 15 games in his first season in 1997. That year, he earned a Rising Star nomination, but injuries restricted him to just one game in 1998. He bounced back and finished as runner-up to Peter Bell in the club's 2001 best and fairest award. He was then traded to St. Kilda where he spent three seasons before requesting a trade back to Fremantle at the end of 2004. He played every game in 2005 and missed just one game in 2006. He was an integral part of the team's two finals appearances. His start to 2007 was again disrupted by injury but he again came back to win the 2007 Best Clubman Award. Black said one of the things he would miss the most was the camaraderie with his teammates. He also said the highlight of his career was playing in the preliminary finals with the Saints and Fremantle.

Club CEO Steve Rosich acknowledged the contributions and sacrifices Black had made for the club. Black, who was contracted through the end of next season, came to an amicable agreement with the club through his management.

HEATH BLACK
Games 192 (138 with Fremantle), 54 with St. Kilda)
Finals: 5
Goals: 80 (61 with Fremantle, 19 with St. Kilda)
Honors: Runner-Up Doig Medal 2001; Best Clubman 2007; Rising Star nominee 1997; International Rules Series 2005; South Fremantle premiership team 1997

Luke Webster

Fremantle Docker Luke Webster told the club he would not renew his contract next year. Webster, who underwent his fourth knee reconstruction in April, said he wanted to step aside to make room for younger players and was unsure if he would continue playing next year. Webster played 33 games for the Dockers since his debut in 2003 and won the Best Clubman Award in 2006. He was also one of the best on ground in Fremantle's historic first final against Essendon in 2003.

Jeff Farmer

After discussions with Fremantle Coach Mark Harvey and Football Operations Manager Chris Bond, Jeff Farmer has decided to retire after a 14 year career which began with the Melbourne Demons. Farmer thanked both the Demons and the Dockers for giving him the opportunities he has had over the years as well as the loyalty of the fans.

Harvey and club CEO Steve Rosich both acknowledged Farmer's contribution to the club. Harvey said Farmer was the type of player fans came to see while Rosich described Farmer as an exciting player and a fan favorite. Rosich also said the club would help Farmer in any way they could to help him make the transition from playing into retirement. Farmer retires as the leading indigenous goalkicker of all time with 483 career goals. He is also second on Fremantle's goalkicking list with 224 since joining the club in 2002.

Farmer debuted in 1995 and played seven games. He was a Rising Star nominee in 1996 and was also a finalist contender for Goal of the Year. He won the Goal of the Year award in 1997 and was runner-up for Mark of the Year in 1997.He also represented Australia in the International Rules Series.

Ironically, Fremantle traded away their draft pick which would have secured Farmer to Melbourne.

JEFF FARMER
Drafted by Melbourne 1994
Debut: 1995
Games: 118
Goals: 259

Traded to Fremantle 2001
Debut: 2002
Games; 131
Goals: 224
Finals Games: 10

Playing Honors: AFL Rising Star nominee 1996, International Rules series 1998, All-Australian 2000, Melbourne leading goalkicker 1997, WA State of Origin team 2005-2006

Source: Luke Morfesse, Club Media Release

Shannon Grant

North Melbourne Kangaroo Shannon Grant, who played his 300th game in Round 22, announced his retirement just before the first week of the Finals. Grant was taking longer and longer for him to recover after games. Coach Dean Laidley has already spoken to Grant about an off-field role with the club.

Originally drafted by Sydney, Grant was traded to the Kangaroos for Wayne Schwass. He quickly established himself as an effective midfielder with a knack for kicking goals. He won the club's best and fairest award in 2001, and placed second three other times (2003, '04, '05). He was also named in the All-Australian side in 2005. Grant played in the 1999 premiership and won the Norm Smith Medal as best on ground. He was also a member of the Kangaroos' 1998 preseason premiership team.

Source: Herald Sun

Jess Sinclair

North Melbourne Kangaroo Jess Sinclair announced his retirement several days after the team lost to Sydney in a Qualifying Final. While the senior team is done for the year, Sinclair will have more chance playing for North's VFL affiliate Werribee in their finals series. He will then take some time off from football as he is getting married in January, but he would like to stay involved with the game at some level.

Sinclair was originally drafted by the Fremantle Dockers and played 50 games there before joining the Kangaroos via the trade for Peter Bell. He played 142 games for the Kangaroos as a hard-running defender. North Melbourne's football manager Donald McDonald acknowledged Sinclair's contribution to the club, praising his committment and work ethic and said Jess was one of the hardest trainers at the club, setting a great example for the younger players. McDonald also said Sinclair was a respected and popular player with the club and should be proud of his achievements.

Sinclair reciprocated and was equally effusive in his praise and gratitude to the Kangaroos for their support. He said the club was like a second family to him and that he was looking forward to seeing them succeed on the field.

JESS SINCLAIR
Games: 192
Goals: 71
AFL Rising Star Nominee 1998

Source: John Murphy, Club Media Release

Nathan Bassett

Adelaide Crows' defender Nathan Bassett announced his retirement. Bassett was originally drafted by Melbourne in 1997 but traded to the Crows at the end of the year. He debuted for Adelaide in 1998 and, through Round 22 this year, played 209 games. He missed out on Adelaide's 1998 Grand Final triumph through injury, but did play in the club's 2003 preseason premiership. He played every game this year and just the eighth Crow to notch 200 games, joining Mark Ricciuto, Ben Hart, Andrew McLeod , Tyson Edwards, Nigel Smart, Mark Bickley and Simon Goodwin.

Bassett was runner-up for the club champion award in 2005 and the following year was named as a back pocket in the All Australian team. He has been a member of Adelaide’s leadership group since 2005. He is also a director on the Crows Foundation Board and a Life Member of the club.

Club CEO Steven Trigg paid tribute to Bassett for his leadership, onfield courage and contribution to the team and club.

Source: David Burtenshaw, Club Media Release

Nathan Ablett

Geelong's Nathan Ablett, who walked out on the club after their premiership win last year, has informed the club he does not want to continue his AFL career. The club gave Ablett time off earlier this year to consider his options. He did return briefly to play for the Geelong Falcons in the VFL and the club was hoping he would return to senior football next year. He was later sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained while playing basketball.

The reclusive Ablett, the youngest of the Ablett clan, told the club he wants to head north to build a career in the building industry. Club president Frank Costa said that, while the club is disappointed as they believe he would be a great player, they respected his decision. Ablett played a total of 32 games for Geelong, including the 2007 premiership win.

Source: afl.com.au

Ben Matthews

On the eve of the finals, Sydney Swan Ben Matthews announced his retirement, saying he felt he was losing his passion and enthusiasm and did not wish to reach a point of letting his teammates down. He also said he felt he had given everything he could. Coach Paul Roos praised Matthews' contribution to the club and made special mention of his performance in the 2005 premiership win. Matthews, who debuted in 1997, played 198 games. He won a Rising Star nomination in 1999, was named the 2000 Most Improved Player and was a member of the leadership group.

Source: Tara White, Club Media Release

Peter Everitt

After the Swans lost their Semi-Final game against the Western Bulldogs, Peter "Spida" Everitt announced his retirement to his teammates. He had informed Coach Paul Roos about a month ago of his decision. Everitt said he was "honored" to play for Sydney for the past several years. In his prime, Everitt was a top ruckman and could also play up forward. A colorful character, in more ways than one with tattoos on his arms and shoulders, Everitt began his 291 game career with St. Kilda in 1993 and has the distinction of being the first player ever to be nominated for the Rising Star Award in Round 1 of that year. He played 180 games and kicked 299 goals for the Saints 1993-2002 before being traded to Hawthorn. He played 72 games and kicked 67 goals for the Hawks 2003-2006 and was then traded to Sydney. For several years, Everitt was also a regular panelist on The Footy Show.

Honors: St. Kilda best and fairest 2001; St. Kilda leading goalkicker 2000; Hawthorn best and fairest 2004; All-Australian 1997-98 and 2000; International Rules 1998; St. Kilda preseason premiership 1996.

Source: The Australian & 2008 AFL Record Season Guide

Round 18 Tribunal Results

Lisa Albergo — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 20:28:58 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

TRIBUNAL

Charges Laid:

Ivan Maric (ADE), fined $1200 for wrestling Carlton's Simon Wiggins. He accepted, reducing the fine 25% to $900.

Simon Wiggins (CARL), fined $1200 for wrestling Ivan Maric. He accepted, reducing the fine 25% to $900.

Steven Browne CARL), rough conduct against Adelaide's Jason Porplyzia: assessed as negligent conduct (one point), severe impact (four points) and high contact (two points), equaling seven activation points, a Level Four offense, 425 demerits and a four game suspension.

The club decided to contest the charge against Browne. Browne told the panel that, at the time of the collision with Porplyzia, he was running with Porplyzia's teammate Mackay to prevent Mackay from getting within range of kicking a goal. He further testified that the collision was accidental when his teammate Brett Thornton pushed him into Porplyzia and that he tried to evade the inevitable collision when he saw Porplyzia out of the corner of his eye. The panel accepted the testimony and dismissed the charge.

Darren Milburn (GEEL), rough conduct against Richmond's Shane Edwards: assessed as reckless conduct (two points), high impact (three points) and high contact (two points), equaling seven points, a Level Four offense, 425 demerits and a four game suspension. He has a clean record over the past five years, reducing the penalty 25% to 318.75 and a three game suspension.

The club contested the charge and was partially successful in getting the sentence reduced to a one game suspension. Milburn and his advocate used a loophole technicality to have the high contact reduced by arguing that Edwards' head hit the ground due to Milburn pinning his arms in a legal tackle. Milburn's advocate, Peter Murdoch, told the Tribunal that, although Edwards was slung to the ground by Milburn, the classification should be reduced to body contact and that the AFL rules did not cover this type of tackle. The panel agreed, reducing the classification and knocking off 25% for Milburn's plea to rough conduct and good behavior over the past five years. It reduced Milburn's demerits to 182.81 demerits and a one game suspension.

After the hearing, Tribunal chairman David Jones said it was something the AFL should review at the end of the season.

Jeff Farmer (FRE), striking Eagle Mark Nicoski: assessed as reckless conduct (two points), low impact (one point) and high contact (two points), equaling five points, Level Two offense, 125 demerits and a one game suspension. He has a record of eight games suspended within the past three years, increasing the penalty 50% to 187.50 demerits and a one game suspension. He accepted, reducing the penalty 25% to 140.63 demerits and a one game suspension.

Source: Patrick Keane, AFL Media Release, Melbourne Age, & afl.com.au

Around The AFL

Lisa Albergo — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 13:24:54 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

Richmond's Irish Proposal

In an effort to ease tensions over Irish Gaelic footballers being recruited to Australian Football, the Tigers have come up with a plan. That plan would involve an exchange program in which players from both codes who fail to make it at the elite level in their own sport would change codes. Richmond CEO Greg Miller and prominent player agent Peter Jess are planning to meet with GAA officials in early October to discuss the idea. According to Miller, the plan would allow Irish players to play for local footy clubs in Australia while visiting for work, study and/or travel. By the same token, Australian players could do the same in Ireland.

Source: independent.ie

Expand Interchange Bench

After Adelaide players Brett Burton and Jason Porplyzia suffered serious injuries in the Round 15 match against Collingwood, Magpie Coach Mick Malthouse has once again called upon the AFL to increase the interchange bench from four to six players. He would like to see the extra two players used to replace players who suffer game ending injuries. The move would allow teams to maintain an adequate interchange bench instead of depleting the team compliment.

Burton will miss the rest of the season due to a ruptured knee ligament, requiring a knee reconstruction. Porplyzia dislocated his shoulder. Those injuries meant the Crows then had only two players on the interchange bench.

Source: canberratimes.com.au

Michael Voss Joins Eagles

Former Brisbane champion Michael Voss rejected a three year deal to coach the new Gold Coast AFL team, which is planned to launch in 2011. Voss wanted a five year deal, believing he would need that long to really develop and establish the team. He has since signed a two year deal as an assistant coach with the West Coast Eagles. He believes the position will be beneficial to any senior coaching plans in the future. He has not completely ruled out taking on the Gold Coast job.

Voss will take up the role and move from Queensland to Perth in October. He is currently involved with the media and will see out that commitment before joining the Eagles.

Source: Melbourne Age

Cousins To Play VFL

Disgraced former Eagle Ben Cousins had his request and registration approved by the AFL. Cousins, who was deregistered and suspended by the AFL for "bringing the game into disrepute" has joined VFL team Port Melbourne, but is not expected to play senior football this year. He is currently training with WAFL clubs East Fremantle and Perth and will relocate to Melbourne next month. Cousins began his playing career with East Fremantle and his father Bryan played 240 games for the club.

Cousins' battle with substance abuse and addiction has been well chronicled and he was sacked by the Eagles last year, then faced the AFL Commission. He has since undergone rehab to overcome his addiction, but admitted he still has to overcome difficulties associated with addiction.

Source: watoday.com.au

Carey Plea Rejected

Wayne Carey's request for a diversion program, in which he would plead guilty and accept a court penalty rather than conviction and jail time, was turned down by the Melbourne Magistrates Court in late June. Diversion is usually granted to first-time offenders. However, Carey has previous offenses and he has been scheduled to appear in court early next month to face charges stemming from a domestic dispute in January. At the time, he was charged with assaulting police officers and resisting arrest.

The former North Melbourne champion is also facing similar charges in Miami and was due to face US court this month. That hearing has also been delayed at the request of his lawyer. Should Carey be found guilty, he could face up to 15 years in US jail.

Source: Herald Sun

2008 International Cup

Sixteen teams from around the world will be heading for Australia in August to compete in the third Australian Rules International Cup.The games will take place August 27-September 6 with the Grand Final to be played at the MCG.

The participating nations are: Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, Great Britain, Ireland, India, Japan, Nauru, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peace Team, Samoa, South Africa, Sweden and the USA. It will be the first participation by China, China, Finland, India, Peace Team, Sweden.

The first tournament was held in 2002 with only 11 teams competing. Since then, according to AFL Talent Manager Kevin Sheehan, there are now over 35,000 players in almost 40 countries. Ireland took the title in 2002 while New Zealand was the 2005 champion.

Source: Michelle Clyne, AFL Media Release