DeeVoted

I would take Boyd, but I doubt very much we will have that option, more likely go to GWS, or someone will rangle a deal to get him before us. I know we are desperate for mids, but here is the plan. Assume Watts re-signs on a (2 year deal) and Clark fails to get over the foot stress,injury (both unknowns atm) The new coach gets 2 years to see where Watts is best suited, Hogan only signs for 2yrs??. (hope its 10, but we dont know yet) We have Boyd in the wings, should Dawes go down. If Clark fails to get over the foot stress, we still have 2 gun fwds. (Hogan / Boyd). Our new coach gets 2 years to develop our current mids. Then weigh up his fwd options to throw on the trade table in 2 yrs time, for another AA grade Mid. This year he then takes the best mids left in the draft, and throw around some of our players as a trade, iced with a pick. to get at least one gun 25ish mid. If Hogan got a deal from Freo (when out of contract) to come home, ( $cully like numbers) we still have him covered. Gun Fwds are harder to come by then Mids. Boyd is a Vic. So more likely him staying. Either way we have our bases covered. In 2 yrs time, the coach decides if Watts / Howe / Fiztpatrick are keepers, and has time to sort out our Mids there atm. There is a bit each way there. but we have more options open. But I doubt Boyd will be on the table for us to grab. Unless we have someone that can sell ice to an eskimo we may struggle to entice a big name mid. But you never know, We got Clarke at a last ditch effort.

The final eight in all 3 leagues are locked in. Good luck to the teams hoping to win their respective GF. (& bragging rights) Legends League Round 19 progessive Legends League's Ave = 1,839 League's Ranking = 7569 OF 22157 POINTS 1. Toumpas' Souvalaki 38,864 60 2. Armpits United 38,286 52 3. Lord Travis 37,970 48 4. Darkhorse 37,881 48 5. Up the Guts 37,825 52 6. Jack Attack 37,761 44 7. Kervo's Kaos 37,615 60 8. Hand Egg FC 37,342 44 9. Losers Club 37,115 36 10. Marvel Mavericks 36,532 36 11. Baghdad Bob 36,118 32 12. Carltank 34,816 28 13. Anchor Spreadable 33,910 24 14. Repressors 33,119 16 15. Deeville 32,355 16 16. Tenacious 30,556 12 17. The Niners 26,834 4 18. Good Times 24,057 0 4 games left to finalise the 'Total Season Points', then sort out the results from the 3 leagues. 2014 Relegation / Promotion comes into play. In 2014 Ladder positions will decide who goes up and who drops down. Perhaps someone from the All Stars & the Rookie Leagues can post an update (as the above) with progressive scores.

You havent confirmed. You have posted, but nothing suggests (as yet) you are returning. I need confirmations, (username with DT team) if I need to PM someone with their league code in 2014 I need to know who is who, or the leagues may end up with "ghost ships". This year all 3 leagues were filled at random. Next year will be invite only, to ensure everyone is placed in there correct league. (After all the data from 3 leagues have been sorted through). Hopefully next year we have enough returning numbers for at least 2 leagues.

Happy you took the time to read it. I wont get the 2 hrs yesterday or any of the other crap that has been dished up, this year and past. If went it over your head whats wrong, more than happy to explain what else is wrong with this club. Cant solve blindness , you are on your alone there.

Updated you.

Darkhorse finished me off last week. I was hanging on by a thread (not this one). I mistimed my run. May now fall 1 win short from the 8. I look back to that lose to HT's team. I still cant figure out how he won that. I hope the Poms serve him flat beer

I just viewed the replay this morning (GWS) put my emotions to one side having decided to leave it for the day after. 2 teams on about par with talent and form. (to honest, IF we played at our peak we have them covered, or should have, ( with a few injuires no Frawley or Clark two we need playing and firing), we still should have won. Then I factored in our last few weeks, Geelong (in the wet) then Darwin, back to Melb, then to the Gold Coast. Thats a pretty tough ask for any team let alone a young team playing without any self believe,(and a lack of onballers (run)) I also fail to see any benefit training in up north,apart from a break away from the normal routine. Some points to take into account, some want to slash 3/4 off the list, or wipe it totally and start again. It wont help. Perhaps 6 - 8 senior players off the list next year, and keep turning them over. I am not about to analyse every player and write up a report on each . Some of the standouts for me that have to eradicated next year. 2nd and 3rd efforts are lacking, too many players stand off after they have made a contest, they then stand back and ball watch,nowhere near an opposition opponent,thus leaving one or two of their players free space to break. I'm not sure if they think I'll just done my bit I need a breather.So I'll have a spell and let someone else have a go. *Watts does this and has a lot of mates* You get your breather when the ball has cleared the area, then you man up. you dont just stand there alone. Right there is a lack of putting pressure on. A player should not have to be told to man up when the ball is in dispute or when we havent got it.Thats just lazy dumb football, We know our fitness isnt up to srcatch, but the lack of effort at times is appalling. Back to the draw. perhaps because of our last few games, its taken a toll during this game?. (an excuse).We do run, we run to chase when its too late. We rarely run to create options,its left to one or two.Its been this way for the last 10 yrs, we refuse to man up,stand toe to toe and leave it for someone else. I rarely seen any attempt to shield a player who just received a handball, to relieve pressure and give him an extra second or two to dispose the ball.Therefore most times they are rushed into giving off the ball and not to someone running or a chance to nail a pass up the field. They put more pressure on themselves by not blocking, they just expect it to work out in their favour. Its not rocket science, win the ball, give it to someone in a better position, then shepard protect the player, then run off to back him up. if that doesnt work outman up. The idea of a handball is to create space and run. then its a weapon. Firing off in panic never works. Where's the solid bump to put off a chasing opponent,and give our player more space? Again, no thinking or consideration. they'll give off a handball then run ahead, in the meantime, the player we gave it too, has just been pressured into making a mistake.so him running ahead is a waste of effort.Then he stops, turns around only to see the opposition clear the ball. They are pre-emptiving something that didnt work out.We continuously get caught out on a turnover. Then the backline is under the pump. Jones is by far our best player, but even he,makes stupid descisions at times, gives off a handball to a player flatfooted or surrounded by opposition,rather than thump it long. (I'll cut him some slack,we need 20 more of him).Toumpas was a perfect example of forward thinking (inexperienced) the 2nd qtr he took off bounced 3 times, then run himself into a deadend got tackled and undid all his good work. He should have handballed to a player running near him, he was in the clear. He will learn from that I hope. It should have been a one two, after drawing an opponent ,or he handballed, to the other player , then has a chance to pass to a leading foward. All this adds up to we dont think ahead, compounded by down on confidence, fumbling,wrong options,and add in the Neeld factor, now not sure where to run too, what to do, I thought the endenvour was there for most part, off the ball work ethic is woeful. Another tough pre-season coming up, more running, we need speed off the mark, and work work work on skills. A few players yesterday didnt give enough effort, yes Col, looking at you (again) always the onlooker or receiver, you really needed to be throwing your weight around in the packs to make space. then run off to create an option. Got nothing from an experienced player.Howe was another I expect more from, didnt do enough. All players put in for 10 mins then go missing. With a couple of exceptions.If they all have the same determination as Jones, we wouldnt be where we are, All the above are little things that can be worked on and improved. Its a mind set for some, others try but they need to have a good look at themselves If they play as a team and do the team things we can win some games. But if we continue this crap with this list not improving,Its a long long road. The new coach has a bit of work ahead of him.

Like I said been trying to forget that. Date had been erased, been doing my best ever since to forget I was even there. Too make that year my worst on record, (Smith sacked, Barassi deserted). Townsend (after I ripped 31 off the jumper) decided to cut costs and used the '1' turned into No 16, Townsend went down with a knee reco, he was never the same again. I;m surpirsed I dont remember Chapman doing so well in the praccie matches. perhaps my attention was more focused on Dillon, then G.Parke. But I'm willing to recall every kick he ever had, If he drops a few bucks in. To run salt into my wounds, the junior school later in the year was to play in a GF. After we beat all other schools for that privilege. The Thurs night (team selection) we were told there would be a 'special' guest to address us. ( I thought better be from Melb, We wore red and blue then went back to back.So I got something back.) To my horror it was yabby jeans, I'm still getting over the hiding they gave us, a few months earlier, he is standing 8ft in front of me, well if looks could kill....... PS If you chip in a buck for every million, I dont mind counting what you chip in. I'd hate to see you lose out.

You had to bring all that back up again. I was there that fateful day. The Saints had a fair side to say the least. They were having the better of us,but I had faith we would come out after 1/2 time and in true Demon style win a hard fought game. If my memory hasn't deserted me, we were kicking to the Punt Rd end, scored a point, the Saints kicked out, and Ian Cooper took a hanger (Howe style) on Hugh Brommell (No 12) from that inspiring grab near the centre (no square back then), it was all over. Its been all over ever since. *sigh* back to therapy again for me. Scarred for life. I had been keeping track of all our 3 teams back then and for a few years later. I could rattle off all 50 plus players and their numbers they wore, but Chapman isnt one I can recall.

This has been on my mind for awhile. For too long we have taken it for granted it will be a lock. But looking back at Sheedys idea to make their ANZAC day mean something special that didnt take away the meaning of why we celebrate the ANZACS. We should make more the the QB game every year.? Stamp it forever as a Melb V Coll. Off the cuff, my thought of something like a pre game of 2 halves (15 mins each 1/2?) of past Melb & Coll players. Money raised to go to a charity(one year we get to choose, then the following year the filth get their nomination) maybe the Reach Foundation one year, another charity next time. Its no doubt our biggest home game of the year, thanks to Eddie it has remained. But we should take it upon ourselves to also use it for an advantage for ourselves and the filth, and also help raise funds for charity. I'm over big brass bands and the like, anyone got any suggestions?

Does your old Ferrari have a scratch? Stockdale can be president if he so wishes. everyone needs to have a goal in life. Too bad it wont be on our board.

Too many to name ......... but The new President and coach dancing on Eddies' scarf on the members wing on the QB round, After we destroy them.

I could. BUT I expect something along those lines to come from those above. But even more important than words, are actions. IF we have the right people in the right jobs, they shouldnt need to be told what needs to be done. Thats why they are there in the first place. See the problems, then go about fixing it, and then building the club to be stronger, better and smarter. Anyway I am just sick of us floundering, Stockdale doesnt do anything for me. I just want a leader that can inspire and demand success.

Are you sure it was your email account preventing you from starting up your account? I had to pass a skinfold test, before being excepted. Thick skinned is a must. if you need to open a poll of anything Range Rover is your man. He is also an expert on being sent to the cooler, and not bad at slipping thru the bars. Enjoy being part of the mentally insane. If you notice any inflictions arise from this point onwards, I suggest you see your doctor post haste.

It seems to me they are / will not disclose the whole truth, limit the damage. All parties will blame the other. My perception is that the whole program got slightly out of control from "the Weapon", Hird took it upon himself to start talking directly to the source,and bypass 'the weapon'. When he realised he was no longer calling the shots, he told Hird to pull it all back. The question I want answered, it probably wont due to lack of evidence, what DID happen off site. This could be the damning evidence. I think Bomber Thompson also thought Hird was pushing this agenda too hard,and called a halt to the program. One more point, if Dean Anderson takes the brunt of the blame, then those above him, his emploreers need also to be held accountable. I know one thing for sure, that I dont need to be told, they all knew exactly what was going on. Anyway back to the popcorn, interesting times at the 'hangar".

I've reached a point where I dont care who gets nominated so long as the slate is wiped clean and we start with youngish fresh faces with a vision and the desire for our club to succeed. So long as they have the MFC off the bottom and gives me some hope of seeing improvement on all levels. Stynes filled me with hope and belief. Stockdale doesnt. He wont be getting my vote. Seems strange to me, 1st Kennett puts his hand up, then gets cold water poured on that as an option (as it should, one-eyed hawk, who is he kidding), then Stockdale crawls out from whatever rock he has been hiding under for the last 12 yrs or so, then expects me to buy in on some bulletin points to win me over. I'm in PJs camp, whoever he goes with, I'll buy in, If he gets it wrong, I'll stand by that too. But we cant afford any more stuffups, we need to get it right, and get it right now. Someone that is 70yrs old, that had his chance once before, and didnt made a good fist of it,isnt in my eyes the right man for the job. I want someone that will be around for more than just a few years, someone that can work in with Jackson, and also debate some issues with him. And between the 2 (and the board) we get some respect back, and give the sponsors and supporter groups the right people are calling the shots. Thats what matters. I want to look back in 5 or so years, and chuckle about the AFL unleased a sleeping gaint. I remember the 60s, its all a distant memory now. The MCG was filled with a sea red and blue, (Jimmys dream) I knew if we didnt win, we wouldnt be pushed around in the process. I'm sick to death of priority picks, hearing we are broke, we are slur on the league,and our players are wimps. Then add all the infighting amongst the board etc. I am hanging in there by a glimmer of hope and a few good memories. Its time they gave me more than that, I want to look forward to the next game at the G, knowing we are going to win, and take no prisioners. I want a ruthless club and team. So Allan thanks for the offer, but no thanks. My vote would be for someone new and has fresh ideas.

I've seen 1st hand how the AFL go out of its way to help us. 1/2 a Mil fine later, then lend us the $$ to bail us out of a hole. All the while about 8 other clubs were rolling around laughing. Would the PP come with strings attached? Or would they give a PP, then 5 yrs down the road nail us again for bringing the game into disrepute. Perhaps CW may have retired by then. Either way if he doesnt barrack for Richmond we should be safe. I'd still take Boyd if he is available. Clark's foot may not come good, if it does, 2 yrs on we get to choose Hogan Boyd or Watts (if Watts gives the OK on the new coach and is still with us) to throw around as a trade. Guess who goes.

So for him its top dog or nothing. Did they edit the bit where he said "If i cant be Pres, I would be more than willing to help out in any way I can?" Or did he forget his script writers notes. Perhaps he was saving that line for another day. We need a fresh face at the top, someone with a clean slate, and less eyebrows. Talk about cant see the trees through the forest. He's old mate is now pushing for AD's job?, now has him in the gun, cause AD told Kennett to keep walking,the MFC is off limits. Laurel and Hardy live on.

I'll re-enforce those 1st 2 lines of your post. Frank 'Checker' Hughes was an outsider. (Richmond FC.) Yes, it took an outsider to take the club by the scruff of the neck, and make some dramatic changes. Norm Smith, learnt his trade from Checker, then added his own personality and knowledge to build on what was in place. We know the rest. The rot / cancer started the moment the board, falied to support Smith on an outspoken comment he made. The high and almightly board members forgot what got them there in the 1st place they wouldnt have known that this one descision was going to have a profound and lasting lecacy. To keep a strong culture and a strong team, they must stick together no matter what. They failed. Apart from a few glimmers of success and hope, we have not had a strong board, some have tried hard, but failed to bring the club and its supporters the success they crave. Why do Sydney and Geelong have strong cultures? They are somewhat outcasts, Geelong (copped handbagers and living in 'sleep hollow') for as long as I can remember. Who is laughing now. A tightnit community that stick together, but they also got lucky and have a few outstanding board members directing the ship. The Swans, helped by the AFL, and had Barassi, Hafey and smart business people guiding the club. They had their backs to the wall and came out the other side as one club to to use as a role model. It wasnt easy for them, but they got there, we need to do the same, stick tight,and select the best available on the board. PJ is putting the building blocks in place. We are somewhat like the Swans, we are starting from a long way back, like Checker, we have an outsider making changes that need to be made. he wont get it 100% correct , but the people selected for the board, should be able to fix any oversights missed and retify them. This club wont die, we wont let it , the AFL wont let it, supporters of AFl footy wont let it. The best part, a lot of people (outsiders) will help where they can. It wont be fixed today or tomorrow, but it will be fixed. We need to hold our nerve and support the club. Its easy when its successful, the real test comes when its on its knees, right now we are on our knees. I will remain faithful and hopeful we are slowly bringing together the right personal to end the misery. The football team learn from the board, (hard and uncompromising) in turn the team makes the board the finances to keep it solvent. Until they hang a sign on the door to our footy club that says "CLOSED' I'm a demon.

I have heard the song in its raw format. I will reserve judgement until it is properly produced in a studio. I'll say 'Its a grand old flag' is well and truly safe,and so it should be. But lets not can the idea yet, it will have its day in the sun for awhile, then more than likely die off in time. Looking on the bright side, perhaps it can he played at start of club functions to raise some much needed funds. Then ending with our real club song. But its a refreshing change from reading all the dribble and negatives that have been written about our club over the last 12 months or more.

I have updated the opening post. keep the confirmations rolling in.

Mike Brady has volunteered his services to write us a new song. Now before anyone jumps up and down, that it is going to replace A grand Old Flag, NOT so. Neil Mitchell on 3AW is taking suggestions. ,then Brady will pen the song. I am not a huge Mitchell fan, but its something positive and if it helps our footy club, (one hopes) good for him. It is a work in progress atm, so be interesting to hear what he comes up with. http://www.3aw.com.au/blogs/neil-mitchell-blog/mike-bradys-new-football-song/20130725-2qknf.html

I'll add you in under standby, until I know for sure how many confirm for 2014. There is a good chance you'll be a starter in the DT 'All Stars' League. If not there, a 3rd League if required, Hoges should be a lock for everyone I'd imagine! Any more newcomers? We'll slot you in there somewhere.

Anyone that is interested in joining our Demonland DT Leagues, and wish to be involved for 2014 post your intentions here. I will add you to the list. Preferences / priorities will be with the list of names that are currently playing. Depending on returning numbers, some may be on standby for a vacancy. If there are enough numbers, another league can be started. Anyone that wants to be involved in 2014 shouldnt miss out. I'll inform everyone on how demotions and promotions will operate for 2014 once i confirm all the details at a later date.

Thanks for posting your team, I will update the opening post as more confirmations roll in.