This is not about Melbourne but it's the story of an interesting man I once met who played one game at what was then the highest level but never really got on the ground:-

Jack Clancy of the overflowing

And here's the story in his own words:-

The game that never was

Fantastic reference

Thanks WJ

Some of this needs to be passed on to the players. The joy, the desperation and the fleeting moment of opportunity which must be grasped. Of course life can still be enjoyed but the position they are in is rare and should be cherished with the knowledge that they gave it every ounce of their effort.