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A time to remember a young Demon player who tragically passed away along with hundreds of thousand others on this day 19 years ago … Troy Broadbridge, Melbourne Footballer (40 games, 2 goals between 2001 and 2004) married Trisha Silvers on 18 December 2004. Eight days later, while spending their honeymoon in the Phi Phi Islands, Thailand, Troy drowned after being swept out to sea by the tsunami that followed the Indian Ocean earthquake and killed an estimated 227,898 people.

Merry Christmas to the Demonland family. Here is to a safe and Happy New Year and a great 2024 season ❤️💙

Troy was helping raise Trisha to safety and sadly got swept away in doing so. He literally gave his life to save hers. Hero.

Your poor old Uncle Bitter got stuck child minding. Quite slowed down the Shiraz intake.

Melbourne 2024 preview: How added X-factor, hunger will help Demons rebound after consecutive finals losses The Demons’ post-season has had more drama than a Taylor Swift break-up album, following a second consecutive straight-sets exit. LAUREN WOOD examines their prospects for 2024. A second consecutive straight-sets exit and more post-season drama than a Taylor Swift break-up album has the spotlight firmly on the Demons in 2024. There’s been questions about culture, star midfielder Clayton Oliver under the microscope, cheeky swipes from Steven May at the B & F and more boardroom battles, but on-field is where they will be looking to exorcise their finals demons. The Brodie Grundy experiment might have failed but having the endless talk about his future removed will be handy, while draftee Koltyn Tholstrup comes in with big wraps. MELBOURNE Coach: Simon Goodwin Captain: Max Gawn What happened in 2023? It really was a season of missed opportunities for the Demons, who made the finals despite plenty not going their way. They built a bank of early victories and were evenly split for results in close games as they tinkered with their forward setup in the absence of a key target. Oliver was missing for large chunks due to injury, while the Gawn-Grundy ruck experiment was dead in the water by the second half of the season. The team finished fourth on the ladder with a 16-7 record but crashed out of the finals in unspectacular fashion, leaving the Demons without a finals victory since their 2021 triumph. Need to rectify things when the pressure reaches fever pitch. Where do they finish in 2024? While there’s been a few chops and changes in the trade period and additions in the draft, the spine of the team remains and it’s hard to see them dropping too far away. Not sure they would have “smoked” Collingwood – as May put it so bluntly – in the grand final, but they’re definitely capable of more than consecutive straight-sets finals exits. The spotlight will follow Clayton Oliver after his off-season issues, along with coach Simon Goodwin who was forced to go on the defence in a lengthy radio interview after the season had ended, defending the club’s culture and handling of a positive drug test for forward Joel Smith. They were dominant in defence with May and Jake Lever absolute pillars, but need to sharpen offensively to gain that edge. Delivered figures of 16.28 in front of goal in their last two outings – the Dees need to flip that script urgently. Biggest improver in 2024? Jacob Van Rooyen broke out and should only improve again to be a vital tall alongside a hopefully-fit Harrison Petty. Draftee Koltyn Tholstrup will be a very close watch as is considered by those in the know to have been performing strongly to begin his first AFL pre-season. Expect Judd McVee to take the next step after a full season at the level, with his body and game nous to only build next year. MELBOURNE'S BEST 23 FB T. Rivers, S. May, A. Tomlinson HB J. McVee, J. Lever, C. Salem C L. Hunter, C. Oliver, E. Langdon HF C. Spargo, B. Fritsch, A. Neal-Bullen F J. Van Rooyen, H. Petty, S. McAdam Foll M. Gawn, C. Petracca, J. Viney Inter J. Bowey, T. Sparrow, A. Brayshaw, K. Chandler, J. Billings (sub) X-factor Shane McAdam should slot straight in after moving from Adelaide during the trade period, and is already mentoring draftee Tholstrup as they both settle into their respective lives as Demons. If McAdam can find consistency and the team’s forwards stay fit, it could go a long way to unlocking the team’s offensive problems it has faced over recent months. Clayton Oliver is one of the most electric players in the competition and if he can get things sorted, will be a more than handy addition for coach Simon Goodwin. Talk about an understatement. Coach status Simon Goodwin signed a two-year deal on the eve of the finals that sees him at the club until the end of 2026. The new deal came amid more conjecture about the club’s culture and reported behavioural issues that had been said to have been raised at board level, but the Demons’ faith has seemingly unwavered in their man. Who is in last year of contract? Adam Tomlinson, Andy Moniz-Wakefield, Bailey Laurie, Ben Brown, Daniel Turner, Ed Langdon, Jake Bowey, Jake Melksham, Jed Adams, Joel Smith, Josh Schache, Kyah Farris-White, Kynan Brown, Lachie Hunter, Marty Hore, Oliver Sestan, Tom McDonald, Tom Sparrow, Will Verrall Outs for 2024 More Coverage Luke Dunstan (retired), Brodie Grundy (trade, Sydney), James Harmes (trade, Western Bulldogs), Michael Hibberd (retired), James Jordon (free agent, Sydney), Deakyn Smith (delisted), Kye Turner (delisted) Ins for 2024 Jack Billings (trade, St Kilda), Kynan Brown (Rookie Draft, father-son), Tom Fullarton (trade, Brisbane), Marty Hore (SSP, Williamstown VFL), Shane McAdam (trade, Adelaide), Koltyn Tholstrup (No. 13 draft pick), Caleb Windsor (No. 7 draft pick) Melbourne's first six games Rd 1 Western Bulldogs @ MCG (W) Rd 2 Hawthorn @ MCG (W) Rd 3 Port Adelaide @ AO (L) Rd 4 Adelaide @ AO (W) Rd 5 Brisbane @ MCG (L) Rd 6 BYE

I was living overseas at the time, will never forget the shock upon hearing Troys loss his sacrifice. RIP Champ

I was at the tribute match too. Like others, it was one of the most emotional experiences I've ever had. Troy last game was a sign of what may have been. Too too sad.

It doesn’t feel like 19 years ago. I will always remember where I was when I heard the news. So tragic for this to happen even more so on your honeymoon. i couldn’t stop crying at that 2005 tribute game. Saddest and most emotional game I think I have ever attended. RIP Troy.

And Happy Birthday Goody

It's staggering to reflect that nearly 228,000 people can be lost because of one act of nature. The 2005 R.1 Melbourne vs Essendon match that honoured Troy was the most emotional game I've attended.

Opening Round doesn’t count?

Will be a good swingman if fit. Versatile,loyal,dedicated. Deserves respect and another year on the list unlike some vegetarians.

Merry Xmas, you cheeky bugger. 😘 PS: I’ve swapped it out for a Demons oodie. Is that better? 😂❤️💙

A list update for the Casey Demons ahead of the 2024 season. STAYING: Casey Demons: Riley Baldi, Jack Bell, Paddy Cross, Tyler Edwards, Tom Freeman, Max Gregory, Ned Moodie, Charlie Muley, Harvey Neocleous, Charlie Peters, Tom Sheridan, Roan Steele, Ziggy Toledo-Glasman, Ryan Valentine, Mitch White; Melbourne: Jed Adams, Jake Bowey, Angus Brayshaw, Ben Brown, Kynan Brown (VFL promotion - Old Geelong/Oakleigh Chargers), Kade Chandler, Kyah Farris-White, Bayley Fritsch, Max Gawn, Blake Howes, Lachie Hunter, Matt Jefferson, Ed Langdon, Bailey Laurie, Jake Lever, Steven May, Tom McDonald, Judd McVee, Jake Melksham, Andy Moniz-Wakefield, Alex Neal-Bullen, Clayton Oliver, Christian Petracca, Harrison Petty, Kysaiah Pickett, Trent Rivers, Christian Salem, Josh Schache, Oliver Sestan, Joel Smith, Charlie Spargo, Tom Sparrow, Adam Tomlinson, Daniel Turner, Jacob van Rooyen, Will Verrall, Jack Viney, Taj Woewodin. ARRIVING: Casey Demons: Leo Connolly (St Kilda AFL), Eddie King (Richmond Juniors), Wardell Lual (Werribee), Kobe Shipp (Beaconsfield/Dandenong Stingrays), Brayden La Planche (Rowville/Eastern Ranges), Caleb Lewis (Footscray), Mitch Szybkowski (Frankston), Kai Windsor (Box Hill Hawks); Melbourne: Jack Billings (St Kilda), Tom Fullarton (Brisbane Lions AFL), Marty Hore (Williamstown), Shane McAdam (Adelaide AFL), Koltyn Tholstrup (Newtown-Condingup/Subiaco), Caleb Windsor (Lysterfield/Eastern Ranges). DEPARTING: Casey Demons: Heath Briggs (Cora Lynn), Matt Buntine (retired - Tooradin-Dalmore), Trent Burgoyne (delisted), Zane Duursma (North Melbourne AFL), Finn Emile-Brennan (SANFL), Rhys Galvin (Coburg), Luca Goonan (Frankston YCW), George Grey (Frankston), Ryan Koo (Devon Meadows), Cooper Macdonald (Collingwood VFL), Tommy McRae (Footscray), Jimmy Munro (retired - Cora Lynn), Miles Shepherd (retired), Cooper Simpson (Fremantle), Liam Tyrell (Crib Point); Melbourne: Luke Dunstan (retired - South Belgrave), Brodie Grundy (Sydney AFL), James Harmes (Western Bulldogs), Michael Hibberd (Port Melbourne), James Jordan (Sydney AFL), Deakyn Smith (delisted - North Melbourne VFL), Kye Turner (delisted - Port Melbourne). 2024 List Update - Smithy's VFL

ive heard the same too, was told that he was running at about 60% fitness last year coming into finals when we needed him desperately.... no wonder he didnt do much at all. He ran a pb for his time trial which is exceptional considering hes at the end of his career

I assume you mean he needs some New Balance in his life. (Got to keep the sponsors happy).

19 years ago cannot believe it God bless you Troy

As long as you whispered " go Dees" to them all day it will have been more than worth it.

I got half a block of novelty reindeer chocolate and a staple in my finger. Still not even my third worst Xmas!

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL. Thanks mods for all ur work on this site. My kids got us all dees jerseys with our nickname and the day of our birthday on the back. Bloody awesome gift. Enjoy Christmas all. Go Dees.

take that onesie off immediately @WalkingCivilWar.

My wife was 15 at the time and there with her dad, step mum and sister. They only just escaped the wave and spent 3 nights on a hill waiting for support and to get a flight out. She still suffers PTSD to this day. I vaguely remenber Round 1 2005 but I was there and remember we won.

or a bomber, a sun, a giant, a docker, a saint for that matter.

Just don't conceive in December like some shortsighted players.

Well played Goody very well played Need some balance in life Big year coming up (we hope)

I am assuming its meant to be a round 1 side hence Kozzie not available through suspension. It is very much a no depth puff piece highlighted by no mention of round 0 v Swans.

Lauren Wood is a Bummers fan so no surprise it is so poorly researched.

A wise man once sayeth, as long as you can dob sausages it doesn't really matter how they were derived.

Will play every game if fit. BOOKMARK it.

I actually dropped the he child shortly afterwards. Caused quite a scene!!

In his few games he looked strong, courageous and a smart footballer. Were the choice mine he would have been the sub in both finals.

Mine was the West Portland Under 15s footy trip on 12th August 1972. It was Round 19 at Kardinia Park where we handed out a thumping to Geelong. Greg Wells and Paul Callery dominated and Greg Parke kicked seven goals. Melbourne 21.16.142 def Geelong 11.19.85. https://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/1972/091119720812.html

Luv this site. Just wanted to take the opportunity of wishing you all a merry Christmas and a happy and successful Dee year coming up.

I've known quite a few dockers in my time and I can assure you that some of them were absolute animals.

I saw Tom up north in October. Looked fighting fit and he felt confident that he was going to get through the bulk of next season injury free 🤞🙏

Date of Birth: 20 November 1992 Height: 200cm Weight: 101kg Games MFC 2023: 7 Career Total: 169 Goals MFC 2023: 11 Career Total: 353 Games CDFC 2023: 8 Goals CDFC 2023: 11 Brownlow Medal Votes: 1 Started the season booting nine goals across the opening three rounds, including two bags of four, before missing the match against the Eagles due to back soreness. His injury woes continued to disrupt his season and when he did play, his knees were heavily bandaged. By season’s end, he was battling in the VFL at Casey and failed to come up for the finals. However, by all reports, he is looking fit at early pre season training.

Big if

Leaderboard Tipping Comp 7 - DemonDave 5 - Dr.Gonzo 4 - Clintosaurus, Macca* 3 - DeeSpencer*, Go the Biff, layzie, BDA 2 - Dee Zephyr, Gorgoroth, JV7 1 - titan_uranus *denotes bonus point awarded

Yes, I thought it was an oversight. Carson were the first band I saw live in concert at Festival Hall. They were supporting John Mayall...Company Caine were also on the bill. Been a Brod fan ever since...

Like his skills but needs some Mongrel, lots of it in fact!

And I reckon first Tiger flag, Houli was the one keeping them in it when Adelaide were on. Naturally media favourite Dusty got it.

Finished.. End of story, too slow and mobility of Jabba the Hutt. Been a great servant but, now gorne! IMO

I feel so sorry for Tom - he was an important part in our flag, and in us getting as far as we did in 2018. He works hard, is strong and well bulked in the upper body, but has been let down repeatedly by his foot. Now time is against him and sadly I suspect that time will pass him by, though I hope deep down that he will be able to make a big contribution in what will surely be his final season. Thanks Tom.

The team's instagram put up a photo of Koz, AMW and McAdam all together recently. It feels just right to have all 3 boys tear it up in forward line next year.

Also Merry Xmas to anyone not on the site too… who those are I wouldn’t know so i will leave it to @Gatekeeperto send them Xmas wishes and let them know they are cared for in this community. This time of year is difficult for a number of people but also an opportunity to recharge and recover, and to rethink things. Whatever it is for you - I hope you have that in mind with your encounters the next couple of weeks. Stay safe Demonlanders rpfc Life Member (15 years)

I like the look of Andy and I hope that he has a breakout year for us at Casey and also gets an opportunity to shine for us in 2024. AMW looks like a keeper.

Should we draft the family dog?

I don't barrack for the Dees either. I'm a professional moderator and this is the only job I could get. But I'm learning lots about Aussie Rules and it seems like a really great game!

I decided to do a best 22 and Melbourne had the best 22 so I went for them.