AGM

[savoydee 6]

Flat AGM's are ok. Means that we're not going over the top saying how great we are but also that we're not all slashing our wrists and having nervous breakdowns about the fate of the club.

Satisfied we're in a good place off-field. Now for on-field.

Totally agree- but as a member -one doesn't want to leave anAGM and feel as as flat as well. No inspiration at all and Neeld on the night was dismissive of his cororate responsibilities, didn't seem to take it seriously and was disappointing that he failed to be accountable by refusing to attribute broad goals to the clubs performance. I just hope the club has addressed this at inteview time.He let me feel as flat as a tack with his totally unprofessional conduct.I felt he actually degraded the club when he said he was given a list to reply to. I felt this was improper and not needed. He had the opportunity to sell us a worthwhile year ahead and FAILED DISMALLY.

[Key Deefender 143]

The answering on the question of the current culture at the club was also a disgrace. Just shows how pathetic we currently are- with regards to where we stand as a club. They could not even address "What our culture is" and how they are are trying to address -the lack of it.In fairness to Don- he did stress that quick action was taken with the regard to the pathetic drubbing we got from the Cats. I felt that Mark Neeld or Neil Craig-could have got to their feet and stated - Well while we are here- this is going to be the culture of the football department- and this is how it is going to happen.A missed opportunity if I have ever seen one.

I actually thought the opposite regarding this question. I thought he was referring to a losing culture derived from years without a flag and I felt he was unnecessarily aggressive in asking the question. The reply was OK- albeit on the run - to me the changes over the last few months indicate a big change in club culture and Don McLardy offered to debate this question one to one with anyone. I later saw the guy in an animated discussion with Cameron Schwab over this question but was not privvy to what was said by either party - and to be honest, didn't feel inclined to listen. If this guy treads these boards perhaps he would like to enlighten us, although I am aware we all pen our words here in anonymity. However the lack of that anonymity did not seem to concern him last night.

[Bossdog 2,002]

Totally agree- but as a member -one doesn't want to leave anAGM and feel as as flat as well. No inspiration at all and Neeld on the night was dismissive of his cororate responsibilities, didn't seem to take it seriously and was disappointing that he failed to be accountable by refusing to attribute broad goals to the clubs performance. I just hope the club has addressed this at inteview time.He let me feel as flat as a tack with his totally unprofessional conduct.I felt he actually degraded the club when he said he was given a list to reply to. I felt this was improper and not needed. He had the opportunity to sell us a worthwhile year ahead and FAILED DISMALLY.

His responsibility is not to PLEASE YOU but to coach this football team to finals football. I personally don't give a stuff how you felt and I will see at the END of the years to weather he is a good coach or not. Dean Bailey was great at selling hype to the members papers and corperates but where did that get us. GROW UP

[Rhino Richards 1,467]

Thanks all for the summary of events (or from some perspective non events).

In that respect another highlight of the AGM and one of the reasons why I don't mind about its "flatness" was the absence of any mention of Voldemort - a sure sign that the club is over him and that we're looking forward which, at the club level, is as it should be.

Thanks WJ for your news and I agree with that. In respect to the past 47 years, the current Board cannot be held answerable for that and its a trite question. McLardy rightly said for us to look forward. And we should especially do so given the changes at the top.

Last night did feel really flat and was not what you'd call a memorable event, but it did feel that it was a product of both supporters and the administration wanting to 'get it out of the way' and to look forward to what really matters.

Good post Scoop. I think its been a hard slog for the Club both on and off the field particularly in the past 12 months. I am happy for the Board, the FD and players to re focus under a new coach and show us what they can do.

To the players; if you have issues with certain things inside the Club? Don't punish us members and supporters by putting on displays such as 186 EVER again. There are things in place, personnel in place, that should never allow you to act in the fashion that you did. I would imagine you have got everything you asked for, and most importantly, you have got everything at your fingertips that even some recent premiers don't have. Now it's up to you to deliver something to us, the ones that have stuck by through thick and thin, the good times and the sh!t times.

That's one big piece of revisionism there. Its pity the Coach got the sack when it was the vindictive players. How could they?

[savoydee 6]

His responsibility is not to PLEASE YOU but to coach this football team to finals football. I personally don't give a stuff how you felt and I will see at the END of the years to weather he is a good coach or not. Dean Bailey was great at selling hype to the members papers and corperates but where did that get us. GROW UP

I think you should -WAKE UP- there is a difference in selling a club and coaching.This guy is a plain novice- as a footballer he was timid. As a presenter the same. As a coach- who knows?? Just hope you are right and he can- but did not give us - we were a group of twenty and he left us cold. However, you are right- hope he can coach. Being responsible directly to Craig gives me some hope. We will know soon. With the draw we have- he should give the club the chance to make the 8- if not a failure in my eyes. GOT IT?

And furthermore, he has a responsibility to please me- I'm a member - whom without us- he would not have a job--GOT IT??

Just hope you are right and we make the 8- then he has done his job.Only then- as he is a failure up to now.Unimpressive.

[DemonWA 3,934]

His responsibility is not to PLEASE YOU but to coach this football team to finals football. I personally don't give a stuff how you felt and I will see at the END of the years to weather he is a good coach or not. Dean Bailey was great at selling hype to the members papers and corperates but where did that get us. GROW UP

Just playing devils advocate here.. We picked Neeld from a pretty large group of coaches. Is it too much to ask for the complete package?? Granted if we can only have a coach that is good with the media OR a coach who gets on fields results, then i'll choose onfield results, but i dont think Savorydee's comments are out of line or in need of growing up

[Straight Sets Simon 23,113]

I wasn't at the AGM, so I can only go on the videos but I must admit the one thing I did find a bit odd was the way Neeld was dismissing what he was supposed to say at the start. It's fine if you don't agree, but I just found it a little uncomfortable that he was telling everyone this.

[The Chazz 4,077]

...

That's one big piece of revisionism there. Its pity the Coach got the sack when it was the vindictive players. How could they?

Please explain RR.

[Rhino Richards 1,467]

I think your take on 186 is idealistic rather realistic. You may wish to revisit the threads in your own time that events that actually occurred.

[rpfc 28,405]

I wasn't at the AGM, so I can only go on the videos but I must admit the one thing I did find a bit odd was the way Neeld was dismissing what he was supposed to say at the start. It's fine if you don't agree, but I just found it a little uncomfortable that he was telling everyone this.

He did the same thing at the Bluey. And he is getting better at it!

He hides his uncertainty speaking in front of crowds behind an abrupt and authoritarian tone.

That was his attempt at humour and it wasn't bad...

And let's face it - those sheets that are given to coaches to talk about at these sorts of meetings are meaningless: please talk about things you cannot talk about in a timeline that won't let you finish a coherent thought.

[diesel 420]

Thanks to those contributing news and their thoughts. So we're agreed the AGM was flat? How people want to interpret that is up to them but why it would be a problem is a mystery to me!

If I consider how I feel about what has happened at the MFC over the past 12 months there is disappointment over on and off-field matters as well as Jim's dilemma but also pride in the way the club has been set-up for the future. It leaves me in the 'middle' with a feeling and an overriding need to see change on-field. I don't expect anyone will be able to rationalise their emotions until we see some indications of competence in terms of a game plan and consistent effort week-in and week-out.

Neeld has been clear about what he brings, his coaching structure, what his philosophies are and what the players need to do. The proof will be in the pudding, so I suggest those wanting to pot him pull their heads in until after we've had a good look at how it unfolds.

[hoopla 418]

I agree toptally that this AGM was the flatest, most dullest AGM I can remember as a member for many years.My father thought it was actually pathetic. Mark Neeld's presentation was the worst speech or personal introduction we had ever heard.He was not prepared,could not sell himself,just pathetic. Needs to able to sell himself better than this, if he is ever going to sell himself to future members. Did not give us any feeling of future success. A shambles.

I can't agree with this.

AGMs are not supposed to be entertaining. Take me to a long colourful AGM full of argument, debate, requests for information etc - and I'll show you a fragmented organisation with a divided membership.It was precisely because it was a short positive AGM that I thought it was probably the most encouraging I have been too.

Traditionally coaches have not spoken at AGM's. Often AGM's are held when the players are on leave. Neeld was asked to be brief - so that the players could get home for dinner and bed. I'm glad he didn't keep them sitting there so that he could preach to the converted. Whether or not we come to love Neeld depends on our on-field performance. I'm pleased that he, at least, realises that!

Jim's departure did introduce an edge of sadness into the night - but the fact that it was a just routine AGM was very much a plus

[Longsufferingnomore 1,631]

I tend to agree with Savoy with regard to Neeld but would not go to the extent of saying that the Club is pathetic. The question on culture was asked in a very agressive manner and was obviously preconceived as he was holding a piece of paper with his question written down. He was always going to be angry with any answer that he got. We all know that the "culture" at the Club was lacking but I believe we all have different interpretations of what "culture" actually is - is it the players/FD (previous) commitment or acceptance of mediocrity or is the culture of the Club/members. I dont know what this person was actually attacking and he was attacking. The way the question was put would have put the Board members on the back foot and in the circumstances I think it was answered suitably. As KD said Don agreed to debate the question after. Poor Cam got the bullet as Don was doing interviews.

With regard to Neeld I agree he was at best simplistic in his speech, even his description of the new boys, well he could have given us a little bit more information. I got the feeling that he didnt want to promise the world but even an indication of what level we are aiming at ie the 8 would have been something more than what we got. For a Coach's first AGM it was an opportunity missed. To allow those passionate members get a glimpse of where we are tracking would have been more appropriate. Even a word on Liam's injury or some individual PB's being beaten etc would have wetted the appetite of those there. He certainly was not giving anything away on leadership either although I certainly believe he has already made his mind up. He said that that he been told that he was too serious and that he should lighten up. Maybe that is what we have - a coach who coaches single mindedly without distraction. Probably a good thing. Despite all of this I was happy that there were no big statements and as someone else said all in all the AGM was of a Club getting on and doing its business.

I did like Craig's brief but illuminating reason for choosing Melbourne.

On another note did anyone see Chris Connelly?

[Straight Sets Simon 23,113]

I got the feeling that he didnt want to promise the world but even an indication of what level we are aiming at ie the 8 would have been something more than what we got.

I am happy that no predictions were given, no matter how broad.

[Sir Why You Little 37,034]

Bit rich to label Neeld pathetic by a few above!! I had to work last night so couldn't make it in sadly, so i can only comment on video footage. But let the guy coach for a while. Why should he give away to much when his words are available to all clubs the next morning?

Actions are what count now. We have had words since 2008. Let Neeld & the FD show us something before labelling them pathetic.

Hope Cam is right about the iminent sponsor signature. That to me is way more important than any Neeld speech before a ball is bounced in anger.

[olgreydingo 51]

This is the 4^th AGM I’ve been to in a row and for those who say AGM’s are not to be a form of entertainment, well they haven’t been to the previous 3. The previous ones had numerous past players and celebrity supporters, jumper presentations and all members in loud voice singing the club song as examples. This one didn’t. The past 3 AGM’s gave the impression that this was going to be our year. Well they weren’t. But, the AGM’s gave those who attended some excitement for the year to come. Now with our past performances we know this has been far from expectation, however I do expect to gain some insight from these meetings and enthusiasm for the year to come. I too was somewhat flat after the meeting, however I think with the staff we have assembled and hopefully the “we will never die wondering” attitude that Neeld spoke of, this, with fingers crossed, will be one of our better years. I am still very pumped about this year however as many of you must feel, failure is not an option now, and without success, the MFC may not survive in the long term.

[Slartibartfast 17,265]

Thanks WJ for your news and I agree with that. In respect to the past 47 years, the current Board cannot be held answerable for that and its a trite question. McLardy rightly said for us to look forward. And we should especially do so given the changes at the top.

Rhino you're quite right that the Board is not responsible for the last 47 years but they are responsible for the last 4 and we, as members, surely have the right to question them about the events of that period.

If I'm reading the reports correctly attendees were asked not to ask questions about last year. Surely I've misread that. Is the Board really saying "I won't answer questions about the last 12 months"? If that's the case it a gross omission of accountability and responsibility. Can you imagine the CEO of BHP asking shareholders not to ask questions about the last 12 months, especially if things happened that were very poorly handled?

I'm bemused at this forums confidence in McLardy. McLardy was the one who, as a Board member, decided to interview the leadership group about the management of the club without reference to the rest of the Board in the week prior to W186. That was a gross misjudgement on so many levels and showed me that his understanding of a Boards role is poor and he was not suited to the role. That he is Stynes best mate and Jimmy wanted him President has allowed him the position out of respect for Jim.

For him as President to refuse to discuss the last 12 months shows his judgement is not improving. Jimmy has been a wonderful figurehead for our club but as a member I feel a bit disenfranchised that Jimmy's retirement was announced on the day of the AGM, McLardy appointed Chairman and we as members were given no time to approved or otherwise this move.

As for Neeld, I've said for a while that he is a poor public performer and that seems to be shown again last night. But so what, I'm much more interested to see if he can coach. None of us know that at present.

[rhaz 342]

I am happy that no predictions were given, no matter how broad.

Same. I can see why people want to hear predicitions but really its lose-lose. Neeld predicts we wont make the 8, fans claim he isn't aiming high enough. Says we should make the finals and we miss, people get angry.

[Dr. Gonzo 24,212]

Before it gets lost in the usual bickering, I'd just like to say I'm extremely pleased to have it confirmed that Greg Healy will be back at the club in the formal capacity of Football Director. Great news for the club to convince him to come back especially considering his apparent success at Quicksilver.

[Key Deefender 143]

I was quite happy with Mark Neeld's speech last night - a little bit of insight, a little bit of humour (even at himself for being told to lighten up), his amiable targetting of a young supporter and making him feel important on the night, no false or rash promises (top 8 too low for some, top 4 too high?), the promise only of not dying wondering - and to leave no stone unturned - about all we can reasonably ask at this stage, the introduction of the 8 new players and a broad overview of the pre-season under a new regime. Anything that might have been offered about specific players other than the draftees - form, injuries, expectations, positional changes etc could have been asked during question time. No questions were forthcoming.

[Lord Travis 10,729]

It's good there was no song and dance, just a clear message that we've now got everything in place, made the necessary changes, got who we think are the right people on board, and everything now comes down to hard work. No false hope, no timelines, just we're going to go hard.

I liked it. I loved Neeld and Craig. Craig is not the most expressive speaker, but he gives some really great insight and is obviously an extremely intelligent man. We're lucky to have him on board.

Also great to have Greg Healy on board, who is a successful businessman and Melbourne through and through. Yet another good get in what has been probably the biggest few months of change I can remember in my time supporting the club. Neeld was right in that we're not going to die wondering!

[Rhino Richards 1,467]

Rhino you're quite right that the Board is not responsible for the last 47 years but they are responsible for the last 4 and we, as members, surely have the right to question them about the events of that period.

Questions over the last 4 years and in particular the past 12 months should be definitely answerable and members have every right to raise those questions. If McLardy was refusing to address issues of the past 12 months during question time then that is disappointing and disturbing.

As for Neeld, I've said for a while that he is a poor public performer and that seems to be shown again last night. But so what, I'm much more interested to see if he can coach. None of us know that at present.

The honeymoon for Neeld will finish when the playing starts. We certainly dont know if he can coach or not. Its easy to trot out the words.

The past 3 AGM’s gave the impression that this was going to be our year. Well they weren’t.

Geez I went to 2 of those you mentioned and I did not have that impression. I had always thought that the Club had clearly outlined the need for patience, development, youth. I also think that these messages passed at the AGMs were consistently reinforced publicly through the year.

[The Chazz 4,077]

I think your take on 186 is idealistic rather realistic. You may wish to revisit the threads in your own time that events that actually occurred.

RR, not sure why you've all of a suddent adopted this "my opinion is right so f*** you if you don't agree" attitude. Hope everything is ok behind the screen.

Firstly, why would I revisit threads on Demonland to learn about events that occured? Unless Cameron Schwab posted himself, which he has in the past, there is some truth in amongst the millions of pages of opinions, it's just trying to work out who to believe. You're not at the top of my list in that regard.

But, how I saw 186 was that the players were obviously not happy with things behind the scenes, through various means, communicated with the Board voicing their concerns, then came out and put on the worst display of AFL/VFL football I have ever witnessed. Was it poor coaching? Maybe, but Bailey wasn't sacked becuase of 1 game. Did Bailey go out and tell the players "boys, don't try this week because, that will make a statement for what's going on with our Club". If that is in fact what happened, any player that didn't stand up and say "we don't stand for that" should have been sent packing with DB. If it was a player-driven thing, then my initial post stands re. we've fixed things behind the scenes, which gives you time to concentrate on improvement.

Not sure where/why you are challenging me - it's my opinion, and at this stage, it's neither wrong nor right until someone that does know (ie players, coach, football department) comes out and sets the record straight. That means your opinion isn't right or wrong either.

[Scoop Junior 3,471]

Just hope you are right and we make the 8- then he has done his job.Only then- as he is a failure up to now.Unimpressive.

Obviously you are entitled to express your opinion on Neeld's speech.

But the one thing I don't get is how you can label him a failure up to now if, as you say, he has done his job if we make the eight.

So if his job is to make the eight, then how can he be a failure at this point in time?

[Slartibartfast 17,265]

But, how I saw 186 was that the players were obviously not happy with things behind the scenes, through various means, communicated with the Board voicing their concerns, then came out and put on the worst display of AFL/VFL football I have ever witnessed. Was it poor coaching? Maybe, but Bailey wasn't sacked becuase of 1 game. Did Bailey go out and tell the players "boys, don't try this week because, that will make a statement for what's going on with our Club". If that is in fact what happened, any player that didn't stand up and say "we don't stand for that" should have been sent packing with DB. If it was a player-driven thing, then my initial post stands re. we've fixed things behind the scenes, which gives you time to concentrate on improvement.

Well you can't blame Rhino, I mean the Club Chairman has said that we're not allowed to ask any of those questions. I reckon that tell you where the blame lies and it's only partially with the players and FD.

That will be a bit hard for some.