As I type this it's only 8 days until the Dees run out again. Yes it may only be the NAB Cup, but to quote the late Big Kev,

'I'M EXCITED!"

I don't mind a bit of cricket, but lately I've resorted to switching on the NFL as a poor substitute for AFL. It's always a huge relief to get some footy. She-who-must-be-obeyed-except-when-the-footy-is-on has been advised of the impending change in my behaviour and viewing habits.

I wanna see some of the new guys having a run, but most of all I just want to watch Melbourne play some football!!

GO DEES

I have never been able to understand self flagellation, but, a small part of me is even looking forward to the filth versus the crows tomorrow night.

She-who-must-be-obeyed-except-when-the-footy-is-on...

hehe, priceless

I always need approval from management as well however footy games are an unspoken rule

hehe, priceless

I always need approval from management as well however footy games are an unspoken rule

Your right Jarka,

Rules are important...and like young pups, you can never teach your "significant" other too soon.

I may have a battle on my hands and would appreciate both "tips' [no don't throw money] and moral support.

Have just got engaged...the good news, fiance already calls the MCG "My Temple"

The bad news..she knows jack S*^7 about footy but claims to support Hawthorn...and I quote "but I only know 1 player - Sean Crawford".

I have pointed out 2 things to her: 1. Sean looks a awful lot like his twin brother shane , and 2. She looks SO GOOD in red & blue [don't we all]. :D

Please come forward with conversion tactics to spare me from a life of misery!

Your right Jarka,

Rules are important...and like young pups, you can never teach your "significant" other too soon.

I may have a battle on my hands and would appreciate both "tips' [no don't throw money] and moral support.

Please come forward with conversion tactics to spare me from a life of misery!

You have to start as you mean to continue and finish. Here's a few thoughts

• No wedding during the season;
• no hanging up clothes, opening the blinds, discussions of the neighbours nocturnal habits, vacuuming the carpet, childminding duties, shopping etc during a Dees live telecast, (even with foxtel IQ and the pause and record functions I recommend you hold the line here);
• any children as a result of your union to be raised as Demon Supporters - this should also include any step children if they are young enough to be swayed, recommend the employment of mother's to knit cute melbourne jumpers for toddlers
• if not already a Dees supporter it is desirable she convert;
• if an interstate supporter (like me) attendance at the game in your home state is mandatory, and if close enough to Canberra that too is mandatory, I recommend you make the necessary entries in her diary and make reminders as the month approaches to ensure no invites to parties, lunches, Aunty's BBQ or tickets (free or otherwise) to Pirates of Penzance etc productions are accepted on those dates;
• The wearing of other team's colours to be tolerated, but not by your children

Hmmmm I'm sure there is more - but its a start for you.

Your right Jarka,

Please come forward with conversion tactics to spare me from a life of misery!

Two suggestions (both true!!) that worked for me .... and I've been happily married for 38 yrs. to an ex Bulldogs fan.

1. Make sure that your prospective 'captain / coach' clearly understands the meaning of 'for better or for worse' before you tie the knot. Everyone knows that Melbourne has a better overall record than Hawthorn.

2. If that doesn't convince her, bail her up in a corner and tickle her until she concedes defeat. This did the trick for me. My 'captain / coach' is now a one-eyed Dees fan, and the only footy related dispute that ever arises is who over gets to answer the 'phone if some Turkey is stupid enough to call us during a Dees game (we live in Canberra and can't get to the G each week).

2. If that doesn't convince her, bail her up in a corner and tickle her until she concedes defeat.

Thank you oh flatulent elder.

One tactic which seems to be working [through howls of protest] is singing the club song ad nauseum in car during long trips.

Now I know that this sort of behaviour was what they tried to stamp out in the Hague post WW2...but i dont care.

The fiance/victim/target was just this morning overheard humming "its a grand old flag" in the shower this morning.

Just goes to show that a great history, jumper, and song should never be underestimated!

"Keep your eye on the red and the blue"