Essendon Bombers

GC17 Draft Concessions, Mozzies May Return

Lisa Albergo — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 19:03:45 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

After extensive and exhaustive planning, meetings with AFL clubs and study of club list management processes. the AFL has approved proposed draft and recruiting concessions for the new Gold Coast team. The plan will also allow for compensation over a period of several years to the existing 16 clubs for the potential loss of players to the new club.

The concessions are as follows:
GC17 will be allowed to sign 12 17 year olds born between January-April, 1992

GC17 will be allowed the first pick in each round of the 2010 draft

GC17 will be allowed the first five rookie selections in 2009 and will alternate with the Brisbane Lions for priority Queensland selections starting in 2010. GC17 will receive the first priority selection.

GC17 will have access to a maximum of five Queensland players ahead of the 2010, 2011 and 2012 drafts under the AFL Zone Rules. They will also be allowed a maximum of three Northern Territory players ahead of the 2010 draft under the Zone Rules.

GC17 will be allowed to pre-list a maximum of 10 players who previously nominated for the AFL draft or were previously on an AFL club list. They will be allowed to sign a maximum of 16 uncontracted players.

There will also be an allowance for an expanded list and increased Total Player Payment to allow the team to develop. These allowances will be in place from 2011 through 2014 with a view of gradually phasing them out:

2011 – 48 senior list, nine rookies with $1 million TPP extra allowance
2012 – 46 senior list, nine rookies with $800,000 TPP extra allowance
2013 – 42 senior list, nine rookies with $600,000 TPP extra allowance
2014 – 40 senior list, nine rookies with $400,000 TPP extra allowance
2015 – 38 senior list, nine rookies in line with other AFL clubs

While the Working Group considered an expanded list and allowance for the first three years, the AFL Commission accepted a recommendation from the executive that given the challenge of building a club, the list and allowance should phase out over four years.

Clubs which lose players to not only GC17 but the proposed Sydney team as well will be granted compensation selections after the entry of the second Sydney team into the AFL. Clubs would be allowed to trade those selections and the selections could be used at any time within a five year period with clubs required to notify the AFL of when they would use the compensation selection. Compensation selections would be allowed to be used until the end of the first round of the 2010 and 2011 drafts. The AFL criteria for awarding compensation selections are: the player’s age (greater weighting for younger players), club contract ranking (greater weighting for club key players), on field performance (greater weighting for strong club best and fairest performance) and draft position if less than four years experience. This system would then determine a club's compensation selection - a first round pick, end of first round selection, second round selection, end of second round pick or a third round selection.

The List Management Group was: Andrew Dillon (Chairman, AFL General Manager Legal and Business Affairs), Graeme Allan (Brisbane Lions FC Football Operations Manager), Adrian Anderson (AFL General Manager Football Operations), Derek Hine (Collingwood FC Recruiting Manager), Andrew Ireland (Sydney Swans FC Football Operations Manager), David Matthews (AFL General Manager National and International Development), Tony Peek (AFL Assistant to CEO), Ian Robson (Hawthorn FC CEO), Cameron Schwab (former Fremantle FC CEO), Kevin Sheehan (AFL National Talent Manager), Steven Trigg (Adelaide FC CEO), Stephen Wells (Geelong FC Recruiting Manager).

Source: Patrick Keane, AFL Media Release

Former Essendon coach Kevin Sheedy was on hand last weekend to congratulate the Papua New Guinea Mozzies for their six point win over New Zealand for the 2008 International Cup championship. The game was played as a curtain raiser to the Hawthorn-Western Bulldogs Qualifying Finals match and was witnessed by over 80,000 fans at the MCG.

Sheedy, who coached the Bombers for 27 seasons and is an ambassador for Aussie Rules, suggested that the triumphant Mozzies return to Australia to play another curtain raiser against New Zealand on Anzac Day. Sheedy is already planning to arrange a meeting with the AFL to work out a plan for the curtain-raiser game which would precede the annual holiday blockbuster between Collingwood and Essendon.

Source: radioaustralia.net.au

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

Eagles Dash Bombers Final Hopes

janetl — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 07:16:30 -0500

Janet Linn, reporting for AFANA from Subiaco Oval

In a long-awaited return to form, the West Coast Eagles put paid to Essendon’s slim chances of making the Final Eight in an entertaining Round 19 game at Subiaco Oval. West Coast were inspired by Quinten Lynch playing in the midfield, ably supported by experienced campaigners Michael Braun and Chad Fletcher. In his much-anticipated clash with Essendon counterpart David Hille, ruckman Dean Cox’s superiority was another deciding factor in the West Coast’s win.

It was all West Coast in the first quarter, after an unsure start by both teams. Essendon players were sluggish and untidy in their use of the ball and with Cox dominating the ruck hitouts, West Coast were able to make the most of their opportunities against a strong breeze. With their forwards playing in front and players tackling and working hard all over the ground, West Coast combined well to kick six goals for the quarter, two each to Ben McKinley and David Wirrpanda. Essendon were only able to score three goals although two were memorable, a wonderful bouncing shot by youngster Leroy Jetta and a superb long goal by Bomber favorite Adam Ramanauskas.

Wind was definitely a factor in the second quarter and Essendon handled it less skilfully than the Eagles in the previous quarter. Their kicks down forward dropped short on numerous occasions and the Eagles were able to clear and put the ball to advantage. While the Bombers continued to look lethargic, West Coast found a new lease on life and younger players McKinley, McNamara, LeCras and Davies rose to the standard set by the determined tackling and hard running of senior leaders Michael Braun, Andrew Embley, Adam Selwood and Quinten Lynch. Essendon scored a meager one goal to the Eagles four for the quarter and the 38 point half time margin looked likely to blow out.

The Bombers staged a comeback in the third quarter and looked more like a team worthy of a shot on a Finals campaign. Matthew Lloyd took a screamer in the first minute and although his kick on goal fell short, David Hille marked and goaled to produce the perfect opening for the Bombers. Lloyd featured again minutes later taking a strong grab in the square and scoring a goal to narrow the margin to only 26 points. Angus Monfries joined the Bomber goal fest and suddenly it was game on with only three goals separating the two teams. A fantastic long kick out of the center by Lynch was marked by Marc LeCras who scored West Coast’s first for the quarter. McKinley followed with an opportunistic swoop on the ball and his third goal. Just when it looked like West Coast had steadied and stalled the Bombers’ challenge, Matthew Lloyd imposed himself again. Against three opponents, he showed his trademark good judgement to mark just outside the goal square and decrease the margin to 26 points. Adam McPhee laid an outstanding tackle on Lynch and passed the footy to Jason Laycock who goaled to keep Essendon in the game for the fourth quarter.

In the final term, the intensity of the game lifted. Essendon attacked continuously in the first five minutes of the last quarter but the West Coast defense stood firm and repelled several promising forward thrusts before Quinten Lynch unloaded with the goal of the day to provide the Eagles with a 26 point buffer. Essendon replied quickly through Slattery and McKinley answered for West Coast. When the Bombers went forward to score consecutive goals from Lovett and Dempsey with nine minutes remaining, the stage was set for an exciting finish. Veteran Michael Braun proved that there was still life in his soon to be retired football boots when he stole the ball off an opponent, took a couple of bounces then steadied the Eagles with a long accurate kick through the sticks. Not to be outdone the Bombers replied through the agency of Leroy Jetta whose brilliant gather then goal was amongst the plays of the day. With the margin at 16 points and seven minutes left, Essendon were not done. Again Lloyd led the Bombers from the front, goaling after taking a solid chest mark to take the margin back to only 10 points. A costly turnover by the Bombers deep in the Eagles’ defense gave Chad Fletcher a chance on goal and he made no mistake. Andrew Lovett streamed down field and passed to Jetta who put the ball on Jason Laycock’s chest right in front of goal. Again the margin was 10 points with only three minutes to go. A desperate play by Eagle fullback Darren Glass led to another goal from McKinley whose seven goals for the day were a personal best. The Bombers fought to the end, goaling again through Laycock but it was all too late. In the end, Essendon salvaged some pride but West Coast kept cool heads under the challenge and ran out ten point winners in a game which highlighted exciting young players for both teams supported by outstanding veterans Braun and Lloyd.

Scoreboard
West Coast 6.3 10.6 12.9 17.11 (113)
Essendon   3.2  4.4  9.7 16.7  (103)

Goals
WC B McKinley 7, D Wirrpanda 3, A Selwood 2, M Braun, C Fletcher, 
M LeCras, Q Lynch, R Davis
Ess M Lloyd, J Laycock 3, L Jetta 2, C Dempsey, R Dyson, D Hille, 
A Lovett,  A McPhee, A Monfries, A Ramanauskas, H Slattery

Best
WC Q Lynch, M Braun, D Cox, B McKinley, C Fletcher, A Selwood
Ess J Watson, M Lloyd, B Stanton, A Lovett, C Dempsey

Crowd 35,288

Subprime Crisis Hits Underperforming Pies!

densham — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:00:29 -0500

Kim Densham, in Melbourne, reporting for AFANA.

For the second week in a row, Lions champion, Jonathan Brown sat on Channel 9’s “The Footy Show” and wrote off the Bombers. The rest of the panel unanimously agreed. On sentiment, at least the Pies would be a ‘shoo-in’ to win. All week though, the buildup, the media interest and talk back radio was about Friday night’s, ‘mid season Grand Final’, the top of the table clash between the Cats and the Hawks. However, Saturday afternoon’s encounter between the two Melbourne powerhouse clubs was not without its media interest. During the week, Essendon Coach Matthew Knights announced that the Bombers had only 26 or 28, fit players from which to choose his 22. Pies coach Michael Malthouse suggested Knights improve his arithmetic. Pointing out that more players were available for selection and were at first team training, even though they may still only be playing in the Victorian Football League (VFL) side- the Bendigo Bombers, saying he believed it to be nearer to 35 available players. The niggle was on, the mind games, of which Mick is a master, having previously made obscure references to Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, in relation to game tactics and outcomes. With former Essendon Coach Kevin Sheedy, the two had elevated pre match ‘gamesmanship’ to an art form, each trying to outdo the other. This was new territory for Knights and certainly drew the barbed response from Malthouse…Game On! After a bitterly cold Friday night, Melbourne was again frost bitten in the morning and by the time the Collingwood faithful and die-hard Bomber fans flooded toward the MCG for the 2pm kick off, the park was being gently moistened with a light drizzle of rain. Hmmm! The pitch would be slippery, an interesting test of skills for the hard tackling, accurate kicking Pies and for the quick handballing, play on Bombers. Anticipation was building!

Collingwood – Essendon games divided families, put friendships on hold and made enemies temporary allies; battle lines drawn! Today was about the ‘guernsey’ [the team jumper], the tribe, the colors and the win! Winners would have bragging rights for the week and a week is a long time in ‘footy’. The Bombers were missing the talents of Dempsey, Davey, Winderlich, Gumbleton, Lovett, Houli and Jay Neagle. Collingwood were missing defender Tyson Goldsack, Vice-captain Josh Fraser, Anthony Rocca, Brodie Holland and Prestigiacomo. As the throng wound their way into the ‘G, the home crowd was a buzzing with excitement, Essendon had won five of its past six games. Both teams had suffered a loss last week, Essendon controversially to Richmond – with the Tiger defender, Joel Bowden, conceding two points, by handballing two rushed behinds - winding down the clock in the final minute and the Magpies -going down to the unfashionable ‘Roos’- had also lost 3 of their last 5. The silent mantra from opposing fans was “please let this be our game”. A roar as the cheer squad banners went up, visiting team first. The Collingwood banner talked of the ‘Bombers needing parachutes’ and Essendon told of ‘soaring high and the Pies taking a dive’. Within minutes the Collingwood team burst through their banner and headed to the goal square at the city end, the Magpie cheer squad – home of the Collingwood Social Club. Soon after the Bombers burst through theirs and headed to the Punt Rd end, the home game crowd extending a deafening welcome. Friendly banter between rival mates, evaporated – replaced by steely determination and unspoken prayers for success.

The captains shook hands and the umpire trio of James, Head and Donlon, welcomed the boys. Visiting Magpie Captain, Scott Burns lost the toss and Matthew Lloyd chose to kick toward the Punt Rd end. As the teams lined up Knights had a few mismatches up his sleeve, Lucas, Lovett-Murray and Laycock headed to the bench – a bold move starting without the gun – Scott Lucas. Up forward - a ‘V’ formation, the Essendon forwards manned up, with Kyle “MacReimy” Reimers in the goal square [in a radio interview earlier, Bomber strongman, Mark McVeigh, spilled the beans and told the listeners that because of his ‘rugged’ looks and golden boots – his team mates called him - MacReimy], Monfries and Jetta were spread across the 50m arc. This was ingenuous, the Magpie defenders were forced to man up, the zone defense, would not be effective as the defenders were too far apart to cover for each other and…and no Lloyd up front! Essendon’s Coleman medalist playing across half forward. Daring tactics for the second week in a row. In defense, Ryder was on Cloke; Fletch on Medhurst, in the center, dominant ruckman David Hille was up against Collingwood's 29 gamer, Cameron Wood. From the opening roar, these two protagonists braced for a mammoth conflict. The siren sounded and the umpire strode in for the opening bounce. Collingwood made the early running across the midfield and wing areas; however, they were unable to penetrate the 50m arc. At the breakdowns, Essendon moved the ball, as they had all season – very quickly and at every opportunity, through the middle, the engine room of Watson, Peverill, Lovett-Murray, Lonergan and Welsh hand passing with deftness and ease. Before anyone could comprehend what was happening, the Bombers were up by two goals – Lloyd opening, shortly afterwards Welsh added and as Collingwood was readjusting to the match ups, Lucas and Laycock came on in the seventh minute and changed the team structure. During this quarter, Thomas racked up some minor possession but was ineffectual and Peverill kept Collingwood’s Swan quiet. Across the board, the Pies only had 29 disposals. Essendon had five inside 50’s to Collingwood's two; the difference was the conversion rate, Bombers capitalizing on each occasion, Collingwood scoreless for most of the term. At the break, Bombers led 37 points to 9 for Collingwood.

Malthouse strode onto the pitch; steam rising in the cool night air, after that ragged first quarter performance a ‘bake’ was on. Collingwood, looking for a top four spot had not put anywhere near the required effort into their game. Paul Medhurst had a short intense one on one session with the coach; he stood forlornly, hands on hips, taking on board Mick’s direction. After 30 minutes of bruising action and blistering pace, bodies strewn on the turf in various states of repair, physios working furiously on tired legs. Mick’s quarter time ‘bake’ paid off, the Pies dominated from the opening minute. They now, had forward structure, Cloke and Medhurst were presenting and the leads honored. Medhurst opened with his first major. Pies had come out motivated, stung into action and set up five unanswered goals. Their midfield dominant by winning the contested ball, backed up with accurate kicking. The Dons had stopped chasing and looked tired. Was fitness coming into play after the lightning pace of the opening term? The momentum had swung the Magpies way, while Laycock was in the ruck, his game was ineffectual and the coach dragged him. Hille back on. Momentum changed - Hille won the contest, long kick forward, the mark taken by Lloyd, who kicked the Dons first for the term, 17 minutes into the quarter. Within seconds, Stanton kicked another but Cloke not done yet and added his third shortly thereafter. The Pies staged a mini comeback and in the dying seconds of the half, the ball ended up in the Collingwood forward 50, in the hands of Leon Davis, the siren sounded as he lined up for a shot at goal to reduce Essendon’s lead to just 4 points. Bombers fans stood as one, the noise deafening, as Davis prepared, he looked unsettled, took his steps and kicked for goal, the ball soared up high, seemingly straight - heading for a major score, the noise then rose to a crescendo, the fans behind the goal delirious as the ball hit the post. Mass relief at the halftime break … time for some refreshments’! The margin reduced by one point, significantly it brought the points deficit back into single figures. After being behind by 26 points, the Pies were on the comeback trail. The Bombers defensive efforts not helped by Laycock’s contribution – no short kicks, no long kicks, no assists, no goals, no marks…just one single, lonely solitary handball…after an hour of football…fans not happy with the effort!.

The third quarter it seemed would be the mental quarter. The first team to crack under the pressure would lose. The Collingwood players had not been giving 100% to this point in the game, operating at about “30 cents in the dollar”! Were they saving themselves for the finals run? Did they feel contempt for the young Bombers; did they feel they could just turn up and win? Was big match fatigue catching up on them? Whatever the answer, it would still be a mental game from here on out. Malthouse energized the Pies, Wood prevailing in the opening ruck contest, ball quickly forward to Didak, Pies open the scoring – 15 seconds into the third quarter, quick action, accurate kicking to the lead – trademark Magpies. Collingwood’s effort made it seem that they could apply the gas and haul the Bombers in at will. Momentarily caught off guard, Essendon regrouped and kicked the next four – ten furious, frenetic, hardball minutes – body on body, the forward ‘V’ formation exposing the small Magpie defenders. Laycock must have undergone some serious half time reprogramming - he came out committed, more energy with an increased work rate. In the second half his ruck work improved, he was quickly into the stoppages; had a chance at goal and took a couple of marks. His efforts gave Hille respite and the chance to recharge. When Lloyd kicked his fourth, the Dons were up by five goals, it took until the 22-minute mark before the now lethargic Magpies kicked their second for the quarter. It seemed that Collingwood needed to be 4 or 5 goals down before they were stung into action, when they did they played ominous footy and ran all over the Dons. By the end of the quarter, they had cut the margin to 19 points.

Tactically Knights was ahead and the final term was no exception. An injury laden Lucas kept on a short leash by Magpie, Harry O’ Brien, was restricted to a couple of touches- but more importantly, Lucas had taken a powerful defender out of the game. Medhurst opened the scoring in the final term; the Bombers opened the ‘after burners’ and left Collingwood chasing their vapor trail. Essendon winning by 48 points, it could have been more, as the usually safe hands of Lloyd dropped two easy marks in his bread and butter range. The final session saw ‘MacReimy’ score two of his three majors, taking leaping marks and running on to receive a tap down ball from Hille to drill a low bouncing ball into the Collingwood cheer squad at speed, shushing the animated Magpie fans. In the end, Collingwood had it all to play for – a spot in to top four, but underperformed, playing ‘subprime footy’- crisis time for the Lexus Center [Collingwood’s home]. Highlights for this match; young Bomber Atkinson on debut and Jobe Watson having a career high 41 possessions and one punter in the crowd of 64,785 had the lucky raffle ticket, number 1625 winning the big screen TV, capping off a great day for the Bombers.

Essendon 19.14 (128)
Collingwood 11.14 (80)
GOALS
Essendon: Welsh 4, Lloyd 4, Reimers 3, Monfries 2, McPhee 2, Stanton, Jetta, Lovett-Murray, Hille
Collingwood: Cloke 3, Didak 2, Anthony 2, Davis 2, Medhurst 2
BEST
Essendon: Welsh, Watson, Peverill, Lloyd, Hille, Fletcher, Reimers, Monfries.
Collingwood: Cloke, Thomas, O'Brien, Maxwell, O'Bree, Burns.
INJURIES
Essendon: Lucas (back, knee)
Collingwood: R. Shaw (heavy knock)
Reports: Lucas (Essendon) reported by umpire James for striking O'Brien (Collingwood) in the first quarter, Davis (Collingwood) reported for front-on contact on Watson in the second quarter, Didak (Collingwood) reported by umpire James for striking Slattery (Essendon) in the third quarter
Umpires: Donlon, James, Head
Official Crowd: 64,785.

Round 16 Tribunal

Lisa Albergo — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 17:18:43 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

TRIBUNAL
Charges Laid:

Jobe Watson (ESS), fined $2600 for a first offense of making negligent contact with an umpire. He accepted, reducing the fine 25% to $1950.

Justin Koschitzke (STK), striking Hawthorn's Michael Osborne: assessed as reckless conduct (two points), low impact (one point) and high contact (two points), equaling five points, a Level Two offense, 125 demerits and a one game suspension. His record of one game suspended within the past year increases the penalty 10% to 137.50 demerits. He also has 68.75 demerits held over from the past year, further increasing the penalty to 206.25 demerits and a two game suspension. He accepted, reducing the penalty 25% to 154.69 demerits and a one game suspension.

Aaron Fiora (STK), striking offence against Hawthorn's Michael Osborne, Hawthorn: assessed as reckless conduct (two points), low impact (one point) and body contact (one point), equaling four points, a Level One offense, and 80 demerits. His clean record reduces the penalty 25% to 60 demerits. He accepted, reducing the penalty a further 25% to 40 demerits and a reprimand.

Jarrad McVeigh (SYD), fined $2600 for a first offense of making negligent contact with an umpire. He accepted, reducing the fine 25% to $1950.

Source: Patrick Keane, AFL Media Release

Lions Tamed - For Now!

densham — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:57:09 -0500

Kim Densham, in Melbourne reporting for AFANA.

Saturday in Melbourne was a bitterly cold Chicago type day, 55 degrees F, inside the enclosed Telstra Dome Stadium. The wind whistled through the Dome and everyone was rugged up, apprehensive and expecting a tough encounter with the Lions. During the warm up, ‘The Big Brown Dog’, Jonathan Brown was foaming at the mouth, ready to play; his knee was still heavily strapped! Not a good sign for the 3 time premiers? While Bombers worked out in front of goals and did a fair bit of ruck work with the in-form David Hille, the Lions champion was doing short sprints and his team were warming up kicking at goal. Pregame speculation was rife, as to who would be on Brown. Consensus was that it would need to be an experienced defender and with Mal Michael out, that left ‘Dustin ‘Fletch’ Fletcher, The Bombers veteran of 290 games and recently breaking the record for the most AFL matches by a father--son combination: currently 554. Two nights earlier, Brown, sat smugly during his appearance on Channel Nine's The Footy Show, with all the confidence and certainty of a winner. The upcoming game against Essendon on Saturday was being treated as a mere formality; all the Lions needed to do was turn up and … as 'Kings of the Jungle'...win! Still smarting from last week’s humiliating defeat at the hands of the ‘cellar dwellers’ Melbourne Demons, he gave the appearance of a Lions outfit ready to cement their place in the top four. Clearly Coach Leigh Matthews had made it clear that he expected nothing less than a comprehensive win from his boys.

Game day umpires, included ‘Razor Ray’ Chamberlain (18), Matt Stevic (9), and Shane Stewart (10). ‘Razor Ray’ and the broadcast media have an interesting relationship to say the least because the word on the street is, that Razor is making hay while the sun shines, taking more than his fair share of 15 minutes fame...each game. Making sure his on screen TV time is maximized at the ball ups and gesticulating at free kicks. As the cheer squad banners went up and the Lions tore through theirs, the message read ‘Lions, Kings of the Jungle’, while for Essendon the message promised to reduce the proud Lions to meowing kitty cats Brown won the toss and elected to kick to the Coventry end toward the Essendon Cheer squad. Was this a calculated tactic to ensure a final quarter of Grandstanding and showing off in front of their supporters and cheer squad? Time would tell. As the teams filled out their positions, Paddy Ryder picked up Brown and Fletch was on Bradshaw. This was an unexpected move. Bomber fans were nervous. Brown could easily give Paddy a toweling up tonight! Was Knights being too creative for his own good?

Full back Ryder was to be tested early. Within minutes of the opening bounce Lion's midfielder Simon Black was given a free kick and played a long ball onto Brown. Ryder was quick and managed to cut the ball off and within 5 quick Essendon passes, delivered the ball to McVeigh inside their forward 50. McVeigh defied his recent form critics by kicking straight and true. Daniel Bradshaw replied just three minutes later with the Lions first, resulting in a see-sawing opening 5 minutes. Both sides stepped up the pressure with hard tackling and desperate refusal to concede ground. But when, Lucas forced a play on call in the Lions defensive 50, this resulted in a turnover and soon the Bombers had kicked 4 goals in less than 10 minutes. Paddy was chasing the Brown Dog all over the Paddock. The quarter took its turns but after 16 minutes an electrifying Leroy ‘The Prince’ Jetta scored the goal of match, his first of three; a weaving run, slicing through the Lions defense like a hot knife through butter. However, the experience and class of the Lions showed when minutes later Black slotted home his sides third for the term. Shortly afterwards he copped a strong hip and shoulder from Hille and was assisted from the ground.In the dying minute of the quarter Jonathan Brown finally got one over Paddy and scored his first for the match. It was a 12 goal opening term. Essendon kicked 8 Goals 3, to the Lions 4 goals straight. The Stats showed the Dons clearly dominated with double the possessions and 20 uncontested marks against a pedestrian 8 for Brisbane. And it was Essendon's best opening term for the 2008 season and the older players like Lloyd, Lucas, McFee, Hille and McVeigh all stood up. McVeigh shone with 12 disposals alone. It was too good to be true, Bombers fans watched as the Coaches went through their strategies in the quarter time huddle. Brown was being worked on by what seemed like a hospital's worth of physios.

Daniel Bradshaw , playing as a forward in this match, galvanized into action by Matthews address, opened the term for the Lions. Despite Bomber captain Matthew Lloyd's heroic tacking in the Essendon back pocket, Lions roared and scored three quick unanswered goals. Halfway through the term the Bombers came back and Lloyd scored his first for the match at the 23 minute mark. The second quarter was hard and demanding accountable footy. Courtney Johns missing a couple of sitters and Travis Johnstone playing hard. Both teams were goal for goal with 4 majors each for the session, but Essendon still had the upper hand, going into the big break leading by 26 points. , Continuing their first quarter form, this was the highest first half score for Essendon in season 2008 and they went to the rooms with their heads held high. Brisbane on the other hand looked grim, with concerns for Brown, limping heavily from the ground. Simon Black required a jab for his injured AC joint and defender, Daniel Merrett had a severely corked thigh.

The second half began with a touch of déjà voodoo for the Bombers with Brisbane's Daniel Bradshaw scoring in the opening two minutes, Lions on Fire! Sam Lonergan again in the wars, receiving a solid bump in a clash of heads, concussed and helped off the ground by 3 medical staff and headed to the Don’s rooms. Michael Rischitelli, playing half forward booted the ball forward to Brown; it was missed by everyone, including the defenders to bounce like the mongrel punt it was, through the posts for a major, taking the Lions into the lead. Meanwhile, on the bench, Lonergan had returned from the rooms and sitting next to the club doctor taking a written concussion test and passing that , he was required to perform several quick sprints on the side line and before being passed fit enough to play on. Before most knew he was off, he was back on the ground. As luck would have it, he found himself in the right space at the right time with a mark landing on his chest 40 meters out from goal. When lined up and shanked the ball to his left for a behind, many wondered if he was he was indeed concussed after all! Lions still in the lead! The crowd groaned! It was only 5 weeks ago that Essendon came off an 8 game losing streak, had they now come to the end of their winning ways? 20 minutes into the quarter, ‘The Prince’ stepped deftly past team mate Lloyd, crumbed the ball in the forward pocket, sidestepping first one…two and then a third Brisbane defender, to coolly chip the ball into the goal for his second. The crowd came alive and the Bombers began their resurgence. This session saw Laycock being out rucked and out marked. Brisbane kicked the first five goals, Essendon the next 5 and the ‘Big Brown Dog’ the 11th goal for the quarter. Jetta had got flattened, Welsh took a beating around the head, and Brown was limping and Lonergan had been concussed, Black was played with a jab in the AC joint and Hille once again dominated his share of the Ruck. Commitment by all! Ess 19.9.111 Bris 14.8.92.

The last quarter huddles were a beehive of activity, Brown was nowhere to be seen, and both team medicos were working frantically on legs and calves. Matthews was ‘calmly animated’, the Lions were in small groups seemingly plotting strategy and tactics. Essendon were in a tight group, arms around shoulders preparing for the next 30 minutes of battle. The siren sounded, Brown materialized from nowhere to take his familiar position at full forward and Hille kicked off the opening ruck. The contestants never wavered and the tackles were uncompromising. Jonathan Brown took such a solid hit that he stayed on all fours for what seemed like minutes, gingerly getting up, pain etched into his face; he slowly unfurled his limbs like a cartoon character regaining form after being flattened. Limping he made his way back in front of goal but minutes later he was off and had a spell on the interchange bench bike. Merrett corky proved his undoing and he was now sidelined with a bag of ice strapped to his right thigh, game over for him! Frustration was creeping into the game plan and three errant 50m penalties by the Lions gave the Bombers an edge – Mathew Lloyd adding to his tally.The activity in the final term was frenetic and despite playing literally on one leg Brown booted 5 goals. Bradshaw had Fletch’s measure and kicked 4, Brennan also kicked 4. On any other day that would have been game over! A Lion’s victory, but not today! Essendon showed promising depth with 11 goal kickers; their, enthusiasm and strong tackling proved the difference. A game predicated on Hille’s dominance in the ruck (20 disposals) supported by Andrew Welsh’s close attention to Brisbane ruckman, Jamie Charman (8 disposals) and inspired midfield running game, with a game high- 33 disposals. The team was closely supported by Stanton (31 disposals, 3 goals) and McVeigh (29 disposals, 2 goals) and the Bomber engine room of Peverill, Watson, Lovett-Murray, Nash and Monfries adding just over a 100 disposals and 3 goals. In the end Lloyd took 9 marks, kicked 4 goals and had 17 possessions with 4 inside 50’s, an inspired captain’s game. Lucas took 5 marks and kicked 5 goals; his return has added structure to Essendon's leadership on field. In the end 40,053 mostly Bombers fans saw an impressive young side, possibly the All Australian no.1 ruck in Hille and speedsters Andrew Welsh and Leroy Jetta showing their pace. Just for now though, the Lions were tamed and the kings of the jungle were left to lick their wounds.

Oh, by the way ticket number 478 won the raffle!

Final Score:
Essendon 24.11 (155)

Brisbane 18.10 (118)

Goals:
Essendon: Lucas 5, Lloyd, Stanton 4, Jetta 3, McVeigh, Lonergan 2, Watson, Neagle, Nash, Monfries, Laycock .

Brisbane - Brown 5, Bradshaw, Brennan 4, Black 2, Collier, Johnstone, Rischitelli

Paddy Back To School as Buddy Bags 9 !

densham — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 12:57:35 -0500

By Kim Densham in Melbourne, for AFANA

The game was positioned by Hawthorn supporters- as a 'percentage booster match'. The high flying, top of the Table, Hawks - still steaming from last weeks toweling by the Dogs - also dominated the media during week but for all the wrong reasons. Buddy was involved in a late night, nightclub fracas. An incident involving "booze and birds". In this match, however, Bombers fans would be happy with a 10 goal start,. It was also Scott Lucas' 250th game, his third for season '08 and his second back from the knee injury.

From the opening bounce it was clear that the Bombers started, as they had finished last week against the Adelaide Crows - adventurous, full of run and hard tackling. Lloyd had been told by his coach during the week that his role was not only goal scoring, but also to mentor the youngsters and build them up in the Essendon way!. When the umpire bounced the ball, up high and straight, Hille tapped out , straight to the Essendon ruck rover . The ball moved quickly out to the wing and on to Sam Lonergan, who opened the scoring. Essendon kicking to the Coventry and Bomber "cheer squad" end. The fans were briefly ecstatic. Hope is a wonderful emotion. The attacking continued and as the Bombers midfield ran, chased and tackled, the Hawks were caught flatfooted, within minutes Lloyd, had added a brace, Lucas a behind and the Bombers were 3.2-20, the Hawks 0.2-2. Roughhead and Franklin, not having any luck. In this match last season, Lance "Buddy" Franklin kicked 9 goals 2 against "Sheedy's Bombers".

The Hawks, missing stars, Crawford and Sewell, were happy to include Hodge , back from a hamstring and raring to go, taking charge of the Hawthorn engine room with Brown and captain Sam Mitchell. They soon worked their way forward and started the service to Buddy, who was being marked by young Paddy Ryder, while Fletcher was playing a central midfield role and Kyle Reimers wearing those controversial gold boots - was on Chance Bateman. It took about 10 minutes before the Hawks scored their first. Franklin, slotted one home at the Lockett end. Hodges chipped in with his first and by the end of the quarter, Buddy had two. This was a ferocious quarter of Football ,played by these bitter rivals from the Eighties and Nineties, the score Ess 3.3-21 Hawks 4.3-27.

The second quarter started with a Luke Hodge cameo, taking a forward diving mark on the run, at full stretch, into the goal mouth. Within 3 minutes of second quarter footy, Buddy added to the scoreline. The Bombers, still without a center clearance for the term started working their way into the game, stringing a few passes together with their attacking run and Lucas marked inside 50, adding his first major for game 250.

McPhee, who has played some good footy this season, stood tall, and with Lloyd causing minor indecision in the Hawks defense the Bombers regularly opened up their defensive 50. The Hawks normal zone tactics were being tested as Lloyds presence dragged defenders out with him, allowing a quick center break to end up in the hands of Lonergan, who drilled his second . An umpiring decision for a Lovett 'hands in the back' denied Essendon a 6th goal. The replay drawing some boos from the parochial Bombers crowd.

In a matter of minutes, Hille was also 'pinged' for hand in the back. The Hawthorn free kick went straight to a Franklin lead - resulting in another Hawthorn Goal - Buddy 3 - Paddy Ryder starting to get a lesson. 18 minutes into the term, Lucas grabbed his second and the intensity was white hot. By now Hodge had 12 disposals and 3 goals , the Bombers resolve was being tested. However they just would not 'go away' and when Lucas took a mark deep in the goal square, a solid grab under heavy defensive attention. He played on and kicked his third - Bombers in touch!. Again, Hawthorn lifted, applied intense forward pressure forcing turnovers. One went to Chance Bateman who with a driving run on the wing, bounced, looked up, saw the imposing form of Franklin, kicking the ball high to let Buddy do his work. Out muscling the experience of Fletcher, Buddy notched goal number 5.

McPhee, as the Bombers half forward conduit, took a strong mark seconds before the half time siren and when it sounded during his run up, he stopped, composed himself, taking his time, he drilled one through after the siren - a pressure kick for Essendons eighth. Halftime score Ess 8.4-53 Haw 9.5-59. The disposals for the half were even between the teams, Hawks by a goal but the Bombers led 73 - 32 in uncontested possessions and 30 - 27 in tackles, all very encouraging signs for the future. The twin towers of Lucas and Lloyd up forward testing the structure of the Hawthorn defense. Due to lack of midfield pressure Paddy Ryder was being "toweled up" by Franklin and 'carrot boots' - Kyle Reimers, had his "pants pulled down" by Bateman. Essendon though, were still in touch - just!

The second half started with some resolute ruck work, the ball dropped for Lonergan, Lloyd in created a leading run, taking defenders with him. This allowed Stanton to run on and kick the opening goal for the half. However the fragile web was about to unravel. Reimers laid a late tackle on the wing , the free kick was hand passed to Hodge, who spun around to his left and without looking up, laid a silky pass to the lead of Franklin, now 'stomping' on Fletcher and imposing himself on the game, kicking No.6. Two minutes later, McPhee fumbled a mark, retaliated and gave away 50. The result? a long punt to Buddy. Paddy was left scratching his head, as Franklin booted number 7 and minutes later Fletcher gave away another 50 m penalty . Buddy with 8.

For the remainder of the 3rd quarter, the 'old firm', Brown, Mitchell, Hodge, put their foot on the gas . Roughhead added to the scoreboard. A run from the Bomber backline, straight through the center, hand passes perfectly timed , all came to naught, as the formidable Hawks defense stood firm. Some worrying signs for the "Dons". Michael Osborne, chipped a grubber kick across the goal mouth, it bounced, turned left and went through for Hawthorns 14th. This was followed Rougheads' second. Knights temporarily shifted Fletcher from Roughhead to Franklin. As the battle intensified, Jay Nash took a solid hit and headed to rooms for treatment, Stanton and Sam Mitchell collided - Stanton, left groggy, for the remaining seconds of the quarter. Ess 10.7-67 Haw 15.11-101. The Bombers had been zoned out by Hawthorn. 70% of the Essendon defensive kicking was ineffective.

As the fog rolled in from the bay and over the Docklands, Hawthorn opened the final quarter with another by Buddy Love!, Ryder was having a tough day at the office. the final term was mostly one way traffic from the Hawks. Roughead and Franklin had 20 scoring shots between them. Fletcher was off with a hip injury following a marking clash . Knights moved Lloyd into defense but the Bombers were spent, final score was Ess 12.7.79 , Haw 19.16-130. Hodge had a slight limp towards the end of the match but had produced a superb effort with his three goals.

Hawks on top of the Ladder by percentage. 'Buddy' had kicked another 9 goal bag, this time against the Knights Bombers.

A 'happy team' at Hawthorn.

Footnote: Gold Boots: In the 1980's and 90's in an era of black boots, Hawthorn champion and Premiership player Dermott 'the kid" Brereton, was one of the first AFL Players to wear stand out footwear of a different color to black. He had talent, courage and skill but more importantly he had played a few seasons and had runs on the board. Kyle Reimers has his debut in round 19, 2007 has played 11 games and kicked 5 games and this season has chosen to wear standout luminescent gold boots, that glow an orange color under floodlights. At the moment, his boots rather than his playing prowess are attracting attention. The kids call them 'carrot boots'.

Round 10 Tribunal Results

Lisa Albergo — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 08:12:53 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

TRIBUNAL
Charges Laid:

Brett Burton ADE), bumping or making forceful contact from front-on against Essendon's Henry Slattery: assessed as reckless conduct (two points), low impact (one point) and high contact (two points), equaling five points, a Level Two offense, 250 demerits and a two game suspension. His record of 2 games suspended within the past three years increases the penalty 25% to 300 demerits and a e games suspension. He accepted, reducing the penalty 25% to 225 demerits and a two game suspension.

Robert Murphy WB), engaging in rough conduct against Hawthorn's Xavier Ellis: assessed as negligent conduct (one point), medium impact (two points) and high contact (two points), equaling five points, a Level Two offense, 225 demerits and a two game suspension. He accepted, reducing the penalty 25% to 168.75 demerits and a one game suspension.

Beau Waters (WCE), engaging in rough conduct offence against Collingwood's Shane O'Bree: assessed as negligent conduct (one point), medium impact (two points) and high contact (two points), equaling five points, a Level Two offense, 225 demerits and a two game suspension. His record of two games suspended within the past three years increases the penalty 20% to 270 demerits.

Waters took his case to the Tribunal in an effort to have the charge dismissed. In his defense, he stated that his sole intention was the ball. He said at first he was closer to the ball than O'Bree, but the ball took an odd bounce and went towards O'Bree. It was then, Waters said, that he braced for contact with O'Bree and believed that contact was inevitable. The panel ruled that Waters' sole intent was not the ball and upheld the charges as specified by the Match Review Panel, leaving Waters with a 2
game suspension and 70 demerits held over toward his future record.

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

Around the AFL

Lisa Albergo — Mon, 26 May 2008 17:35:02 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

At half time during last weekend's "Dreamtime At The G" match between Richmond and Essendon, former Sydney and Fremantle player Troy Cook was presented with the second annual Nowalenko Award for his service to football and the Aboriginal community. Cook's nomination for the award was submitted by David Wirrpanda Foundation. The selection panel comprises representatives of Essendon, Richmond, the AFL, career training organization AFL SportsReady and the AFLPA..

Current Eagle David Wirrpanda said Cook was a tireless worker within the Aboriginal community. Cook works to establish and promote health programs around West Australia. Wirrpanda praised Cook as a strong mentor and role model.

The name of the award (pronounced NO-WARL-ENK-O) comes from the Woiwurrung language, spoken by the Wurundjeri people, whose traditional land includes the area around the MCG. The word represents a range of characteristics: success on ground and the effect of contribution to club and community.

Troy Cook Playing Career:
Drafted by Sydney in 1996
Debuted 1997
43 games for Sydney 1997-1999
Rising Star nominee 1997
150 games for Fremantle 2000-2007
77 career goals
Fremantle Life Member
Fremantle Best & Fairest 2000 (Doig Medal)
Fremantle Best Clubman Award 2005
Western Australia State of Origin Representative 1997-1998
Runner-up Sandover Medal 1996 (WA equivalent of Brownlow)

Community Contribution
Cook joined the Wirrpanda Foundation earlier this year, setting up health and fitness programs and working to fight substance abuse. Primary targets are high schools, with his programs already implemented in one school and soon to be implemented in three more.

Cook is currently captain of WAFL team Perth and acts as a mentor to younger players at the club.

Cook is also an ambassador for the WA Be Active Program and recently was appointed to the County High School Hostel Authority for three years. He also has an ambassadorial role with the Premier’s Physical Activity Taskforce, which supported his nomination along with the Western Australian Department of Sport and Recreation. He also acts as an Ambassador for the Department of Indigenous Affairs PALS Project (Partnership, Acceptance, Learning and Sharing) and, in 2007, was appointed a board member of Diabetes WA.

Former St. Kilda and Brisbane player Gilbert McAdam won the award in 2007.

Source: Michele Clyne, AFL Media Release

CARLTON
Last week, the Blues welcomed their 40,000th member. It is the first time in the club's history that they have secured 40,000 members. Young cancer patient Ben Clark was invited to the rooms after a training session last week where he was presented with his membership card by captain Chris Judd. Ben was also presented with a variety of club merchandise which was purchased by the players.

The arrangements were made with the assistance of Challenge, a non-profit community organization which works with children suffering from cancer and other blood diseases and their families. Several Carlton players are also involved with Challenge in voluntary roles.

In 2007, Carlton broke their all-time membership record with 35,431 members.

Source: Ian Coutts, Club Media Release

Bombers Win the DDToss - Tigers the 'Kevin Sheedy' Cup

densham — Sun, 25 May 2008 06:33:41 -0500

by Kim Densham, reporting for AFANA from Melbourne

Dreamtime at the G turns to Nightmare in Bomberland. Even as Paul Kelly belted out his evocative song "From Little Things, Big Things Grow" with the help of Jessica Maubouy, Kev Carmody and legendary "Oils" front man, now cabinet minister, Peter Garrett. The Bombers faithful gathered, fuel tanks empty, ready for another night of pain. The optimistic hoped against all odds for another upset a la the Pies and the Cats.

But even before last sounds of the didgeridoo faded over Melbourne Town, the first quarter was one-way traffic, Tiger traffic, away from the city end to Richmond. The first term was marred by fumbles, mistimed handballs, sloppy marking, no manning up , wild wayward kicks and that was just Richmond, The Dons were worse, much worse. As the siren sounded for the end of the term, the Bombers were booed off the ground. They had failed to score a goal and were down 0 - 5 - 5 to Tigers 5 - 3 -33. To say Coach Knights was animated during the quarter time huddle would be an understatement.

The second term started no better and it took 10 minutes before Essendon, through Captain Matthew Lloyd, were able to score a second. Effectively Essendon had conceded 21 consecutive goals since last weeks match against the Swans. It was a further 13 minutes before McVeigh scored the second. In the meantime the Tigers piled on 5 more and missed 5, by the halftime break Essendon were 50 points behind and headed to the tunnel for what was surely a mammoth 'roasting' by the coach. The biggest cheer of the quarter was when David Hille booted the ball forward to Paddy Ryder ending a string of woeful, mistimed and scraggly handballs. It's not so much that Richmond were good, as much as Essendon were misfiring. Ess 2-6-18 Rich 10-8-68.

The Bombers came out for second half full of desperation that had been lacking in the first, no doubt stung into action by Knights. Lloyd played in the backline and Paddy Ryder was upfront. They clawed back some respectability and opened play with their third goal with Jay Neagle kicking his first. 17 minutes later Lloyd kicked two quick ones and by the end of the third quarter, Essendon had kicked 6 but still trailed by 26 points 8-9-57 to Richmond 12-10-82.

Nathan Brown opened the scoring for the final quarter, Essendon replied seconds later when Lloyd 'shepparded on the line' allowing Jay Nash's punt to slide through. However Richmond's run through Nathan Foley and Brett Deledio created some devastation through the middle and the Tigers piled on 4 more goals. The Essendon faithful left the 'G' in droves.

In the end it was a bottom of the table affair, with one place separating the teams at the start of the match. The silver lining for the Bombers was keeping the score below 150 for the match, they applied them selves in the third term but sorely miss someone of the class of Hird, who carried the midfield and applied sublime service to Lloyd in the forward line. Richmond, in their umpteenth year of rebuilding let themselves down with some inaccurate kicking but showed that Coach Terry 'Plough' Wallace has instilled some run, demanded more of Kane Pettifer and was fortunate enough to have Nathan Brown back this year and Shane Edwards was handy up front.

In the end Richmond extracted revenge for the cruel 8 point loss in last years Dreamtime Game and received the 'Kevin Sheedy Cup'. Nathan Foley was presented the 'best on ground' medal by Michael Long and 'Richo' was, well , just Richo! and Tigers fans love him for that'.