Pinball Wizard

Do you think a Jamar who has hardly played at all over the past ten weeks goin up against Sandi would make much difference?

Wasn't it also rumoured that Moloney wanted to go to Essendon during last year's trade period? If so, he might have been discontented from the very beginning of Neeld's time at the club.

Colin Garland, Melbourne, has been charged with a level one engaging in rough conduct offence (125 points, one match) against Kurt Tippett, Adelaide Crows, during the fourth quarter of the round 22 match between Melbourne and the Adelaide Crows, played at the MCG on Sunday August 26, 2012. In summary, due to a five-year good record, he can accept a reprimand with an early plea. Based on the video evidence available and a medical report from the Adelaide Crows Football Club, the incident was assessed as negligent conduct (one point), low impact (one point) and high contact (two points). This is a total of four activation points, resulting in a classification of a level one offence, drawing 125 demerit points and a one-match sanction. He has an existing five-year good record, reducing the sanction by 25 per cent to a reprimand and 93.75 points towards his future record. An early plea reduces the sanction by 25 per cent to a reprimand and 70.31 points towards his future record. Rohan Bail, Melbourne, has been charged with a level one engaging in rough conduct offence (125 points, one match) against Michael Doughty, Adelaide Crows, during the third quarter of the round 22 match between Melbourne and the Adelaide Crows, played at the MCG on Sunday August 26, 2012. In summary, he can accept a reprimand with an early plea. Based on the video evidence available and a medical report from the Adelaide Crows Football Club, the incident was assessed as reckless conduct (two points), low impact (one point) and body contact (one point). This is a total of four activation points, resulting in a classification of a level one offence, drawing 125 demerit points and a one-match sanction. He has no existing good or bad record, An early plea reduces the sanction by 25 per cent to a reprimand and 93.75 points towards his future record.

The knock on Feta when he was at Melbourne was that he was too slow and his disposal was suspect. Wasn't evident yesterday but the Hawks weren't under any pressure so their players were able to do whatever they wanted throughout the game.

Apparently there was a training session this morning but it was very early on due to the fact that the lads were off to the community camp week activities today. Was anyone there at training?

One of those Under 16's picked up Voldemort last night and even tackled him one or two times. Things are going well out there at Bleaktown.

Laugh you might but I'm reliably informed that Tom Scully absolutely tore it up in last night's practice match picking up possessions at will for his team. ... and the witches hat he played on was seen last night floating down the Paramatta River.

My information from the Top End is that Waylen Manson didn't play for Waratah today. The result was somewhat of an upset with Southern Districts winning 9.6.60 to 9.4.58 in the wet despite Waratah having a star studded line up including a few former Carlton players in Brendan Fevola (7 goals), Ryan Houlihan and Heath Culpitt as well as Gippslander Beau Runnalls. A few of those blokes are certainly not strangers to controversy. The game had a bit of a Casey flavour with former Scorpion reserves players Aaron Hillberg and Andrew Oldmeadow turning out for the winners.

There's an interesting article in the Age today in which it is claimed that South Australia is trying to poach two promising young cricketers (aged 18 & 20) away from Victoria. The words used are "unscrupulously targeting". That's what I call an accusation but in the unethical world in which the AFL operates, people are more concerned with the evils of spreading stories about a player's knee. Golly gosh!

I would have thought that if there was no truth to the rumours about Scully's knee then GWS would release some vision of him going flat out at training. I've seen pictures of some of the Giants players at training including one of Junior sprinting but not Scully. I don't wish him a bad knee but Sheedy seems to be hiding something and it would be so easy easy for him to prove that Scully's knee is fine and dandy.

Nathan Jones finished in under 10 minutes.

OK but I would prefer we're given until at least Wednesday because I'm doing something on Tuesday.

Here's a good news story from the Cranbourne newspaper about the Melbourne Football Club and CEO, Cameron Schwab interacting with the local community in the Casey area - Footy chief at school helm Initiatives like this will bear fruit for our club in years to come in terms of support, memberships and sponsorship opportunities in one of the country's fastest growing population centres. This is also why we should be supporting and embracing our links with the Casey Scorpions and the Berwick/Cranbourne community.

Exception: The exhibition of umpiring by the three maggots who ran the show at the Adelaide Oval last Sunday because I really believe it was the worst exhibition of umpiring I've ever seen and the non mark to Jeremy Howe the most inexplicable marking decision I've ever witnessed. Also, because it was the last game of the season, the memory is going to last more than "until next week" and this one was so bad that the memory might linger until at least four weeks into next season when we might run into Schmitt again. I don't think this exhibition was part of "an AFL conspiracy to destroy MFC" - that's a ridiculous suggestion. We all know it was part of a conspiracy to give Gold Coast draft pick 4 ahead of the idiots at Port Adelaide who refused to tank. This will now enable the Suns to use that pick to get the Jaeger bomb and GWS will score the first 5 selections in the upcoming draft.

Alastair Clarkson anybody?

Melbourne Demon Colin Sylvia considers options Hannebury would make a good straight swap IMO

Spencer and Gawn will have a tough job since Stephenson is just about the top ruckman in the VFL.

I believe that Jack Viney is a member of this year's AIS-AFL Academy and since Geelong VFL Side are taking on the AIS-AFL Academy team at MCG tomorrow at 4:20pm, there's a chance that those who go to the game might see him in live action for the first time. I can't guarantee it because I haven't as yet seen the selected team. The game is a curtain raiser to Richmond vs Collingwood game. Gates Open at 4pm.

Dane Swan is favourite 2011 Brownlow but where are the Demons? $10.00 Dane Swan $12.00 Brendon Goddard Gary Ablett $14.00 Joel Selwood Chris Judd $16.00 Luke Hodge $21.00 Scott Pendelbury $26.00 Daniel Cross Adam Cooney $34.00 Leigh Montagna Lenny Hayes Aaron Sandilands Matthew Boyd Matthew Pavlich Jimmy Bartel $41.00 Alan Didak Dale Thomas Adam Goodes Lance Franklin Cyril Rioli Jonathan Brown Bernie Vince

BEST OF THE REST Paul Daffey takes a look at 25 of the leading prospects in Tuesday's NAB AFL Pre-Season and Rookie Drafts. Corey Buchan, Dandenong Stingrays (Vic), 188cm, 79kg, 24/05/92 Medium forward whose uncanny judgement in the air enables him to play way above his height. Good also when the ball hits the ground. Kicked seven on debut for the Stingrays and went on to be the leading goalkicker in the TAC Cup in 2010 with 51. George Burbury, Hobart (Tas), 180cm, 69kg, 18/06/92 Mystery forward from the same club as one of the bolters of the national draft, Melbourne's Jeremy Howe. Very raw. Spent the early part of this year concentrating on rowing at his school, Hutchins. Played the final six games in Hobart's senior team. Been training at St Kilda. Jonathan Giles, Sturt (SA), 200cm, 100kg, 08/01/88 Ruckman who spent four years on Port Adelaide's list before returning to the SANFL in 2010. Showed the benefits of maturity by winning Sturt's best and fairest. Widely considered the best ruckman outside the AFL, and Essendon, where he has been training, might take him in the pre-season draft. If not, he'll be snapped up by Greater Western Sydney in its first eight rookie picks. Anton Hamp, Claremont (WA), 193cm, 83kg, 21/07/92 Lead-up forward who surprised many by not being taken in the national draft. Broke his ribs early in the under-18 championships. Inconsistency was the problem on his return, but he's got plenty of upside and should go early here. Brad Harvey, Eastern Ranges (Vic), 184cm, 83kg, 16/04/92 Half-back with elite athleticism: finished in the top three in the spring and power events at the national combine. Surprised some by missing out in the national draft, largely because he showed only reasonable form in the TAC Cup, but should be taken here. Tim Houlihan, West Coast, 189cm, 79kg, 10/02/89 Wingman with elite endurance who was unlucky to be delisted after a season derailed by injury. Expected to be rookied by the Eagles. Tyson Hunt, De La Salle Old Collegians (Vic), 188cm, 78kg, 07/01/91 Rangy, creative half-back with a penetrating left foot. Excelled in the Victorian amateur competition in 2010 and has the coolness and wherewithal to step up to higher levels. Kelvin Lawrence, Peel Thunder (WA), 177cm, 72kg, 14/10/92 Small forward with speed who improved as the 2010 season progressed. Had a superb WAFL under-18 finals series and was largely responsible for Peel's advance to the grand final. James Lawton, Coburg Tigers (Vic), 197cm, 87kg, 17/01/91 Tall, lanky, high-leaping forward—built along the lines of St Kilda's Sam Gilbert—who had a couple of standout games in the VFL in 2010. Sam Menagola, East Fremantle (WA), 189cm, 83kg, 07/03/92 Lead-up forward with poor-to-average speed but elite endurance. Keeps running all day. Dominated WAFL under-18 games in patches, and finishes well. Tim Milera, Port Adelaide Magpies (SA), 170cm, 72kg, 09/12/92 Small forward whose creativity and awareness brings others into the game. Unlucky not to receive the medal for best on ground in the SANFL reserves grand final. Jay Neagle, Essendon, 191cm, 98kg, 17/01/88 Key forward who might just receive a second chance after being delisted by Essendon, effectively for being fat and lazy. Hopefully the jolt has awakened him. The Bombers are a chance to rookie him. Max Otten, Oakleigh Chargers (Vic), 193cm, 86kg, 10/11/92 Key defender who was controversially cut from the Vic Metro team early in the under-18 championships after Vic Country's Lucas Cook had kicked a few goals on him. Responded by going back to the TAC Cup and kicking a bag. Shows the same application that his brother Andy has shown at the Crows. Cameron Pederson, Box Hill Hawks (Vic), 193cm, 90kg, 17/03/87 Aggressive full-back who would provide Gold Coast with much-needed strength and ballast if the Suns take him as expected. Declan Reilly, Sandringham Dragons (Vic), 197cm, 84kg, 09/12/92 Strong-marking key forward who got better as the 2010 TAC Cup season progressed. Considered a national draft prospect, so likely to go early here. Gavin Roberts, Norwood (SA), 190cm, 75kg, 13/03/91 Superb athlete with elite speed and endurance. Impressed at half-forward in the SANFL but is considered a risk because of his susceptibility to injury. Several clubs are ready to take that risk. Been training at Fremantle. Fraser Russell, Geelong Falcons (Vic), 182cm, 75kg, 06/06/92 Speedy, left-footed wingman who played only occasionally in the TAC Cup in 2010 because of private school commitments. Been training at St Kilda, where his speed would appeal. Tom Schneider, Oakleigh Chargers (Vic), 178cm, 77kg, 30/09/92 Midfielder who overcame his lack of size to star for Vic Metro in the 2010 under-18 championships and win the Chargers' best and fairest. His hero is Hawthorn's Sam Mitchell, who had to fight to make it in the AFL. Port Adelaide is the keenest to give him the chance. Myles Sewell, North Ballarat (Vic), 185cm, 77kg, 10/02/88 Superbly balanced midfielder who offers great run but whose slim build (the opposite of his brother, Hawthorn's Brad) casts doubts on his ability to withstand the bigger bodies of the AFL. Won the VFL's Liston Trophy in 2009 and has been a vital member of the Roosters' premiership teams. Surely he deserves a chance. Callum Sinclair, Port Melbourne (Vic), 201cm, 96kg, 23/09/89 Marking forward of ruckman height with eye-catching ability below his knees. Been slow to mature because of his height, but might be worth the wait. Shane Tregear, Sandringham (Vic), 180cm, 74kg, 27/04/88 Half-back who has come to notice over the past two seasons. Good left-foot kick with reasonable levels of speed and endurance. Won the Zebras' best and fairest in 2010. Jake Von Bertouch, Woodville-West Torrens (SA), 192cm, 80kg, 04/05/92 Lead-up forward who accumulates marks and goals in unobtrusive fashion. Plenty of development in him. Josh Walker, Geelong Falcons (Vic), 194cm, 87kg, 12/12/92 Lead-up forward who works as hard as any teenager in the game. Runs up and back like Nick Riewoldt, but just lacked the polish to be taken in the national draft. Blayne Wilson, Peel Thunder (WA), 188cm, 86kg, 26/01/92 Half-back who won an All Australian jumper as a bottom-ager at the 2009 under-18 championships, but whose 2010 season was disappointing, largely because of injuries. Unlucky not to be taken in the national draft and should go early here, with the Eagles and Freo especially interested. Hayden Yarran, West Perth (WA), 186cm, 75kg, 30/04/92 Exciting prospect with the hallmarks of a natural forward. He's good in the air, deadly on the ground, and he's a goalkicker. Has played only WAFL reserves but things should click. Been training at Essendon. Hawthorn is also keen.

Let's face it though. It was a big effort on my part to do all that cutting and pasting. Snoop Dog deserves all the credit though. He sure knows the players and while they won't go in that order it will be an interesting reference point after the drafts.

Snoop Dog's phantom rookie draft (GWS selections in previous post) ROOKIE DRAFT # 1 - GOLD COAST SUNS Tim Milera (Port Adelaide / 170cm / 72kg) Has come a long way this year. Missed out on being a member of the SA Squad because of fitness and turned that around in the 2nd half of the year. Went on to play some senior footy with Port and was BOG I think in his first game. Very much like Betts / Davis like in that he is a small creative fwd, can chase and tackle and has that ability to do some of the very special things. In one of his Port reserve games he had 25 touches, 7 tackles and half a dozen clearances and then went on to play seniors next wk and kick 3.3 in a losing side.....he has some talent. # 2 - WEST COAST EAGLES Warwick Andreoli – South Frem / 182cm / 70kg Presents as someone who will play at AFL level on a wing but could equally play any of the flanks. Wing suits him because he has super pace and is prepared to take the game on. Also has great agility and just gets across the park at ease so is a nice player to watch. Skills are good and can go fwd and kick a goal. I think he may end up as a Clint Jones tagger. Might look at Jarrad Blight. # 3 – RICHMOND Ben Brown – Devonport / 197cm / 84kg Not in a dissimilar position to Chris Dawes 3-4 years ago. Had an injury that meant his first AFL year was going to be very limited in output but a club took the view he was a good long term prospect. Brown his knee vs NT at Champs but was already a hot prospect having kicked 5 goals vs QLD a week or so earlier. Nephew of Jimmy Manson and like uncle moves between KPF / Ruck. Has strong hands, good agility (outstanding basketballer) and a clean pair of hands below his knees so offers a heap to prospective clubs as a KPF and Ruck. Problem is he is very skinny and shouldn’t expect anything til 2012. With Miller coming in this kid can take his time. # 4 – ESSENDON Matthew Rankine – West Adelaide/ 179cm / 70kg Represented SA in the champs and was pretty impressive...he is an Essendon footballer through and through. Got a DC invite and would appeal to clubs as a quick small fwd / wingmen who is willing to take the game on. One of things that I like about the bloke is his willingness to do little things like apply fwd pressure and get up in the tackle count. In a game where ‘role players’ and structure are important it might be these little things that clubs put a lot of weight on. Skills are good and probably plays a bit taller with his leap than most at his height but he desperately needs some weight on him. Standout feature though is his ability to exit the contest and dodge 2-3 blokes doing it. # 5 – LIONS Tom Schneider – Oakleigh / 178cm / 77kg Tough little nut who is an inside ball winner for Oakleigh who had an outstanding year and won the MVP for Metro at the Champs. Plays very similar to Sam Mitchell and can also go fwd and kick a goal. Voss will know about him for sure. # 6 – MELBOURNE Tom Gordon – Oakleigh / 195cm / 90kg Interesting type who has played mostly as a fwd at TAC level but was used in defence at Champs. Shown an ability to play both roles and that makes him pretty attractive. Really good height and has pretty reasonable mobility as well. His weapon is his kicking which is both accurate and penetrating. Has some similar attributes to Lake when he first started and would do well to model his game on Lake’s as he is an attacking type player who reads the game really well. Skills are good and could obviously be thrown fwd. # 7 – ADELAIDE Max Otten – Oakleigh / 191 / 85 HB / Wing type who was pretty unlucky to miss. Plays off HB and not unlike his brother can tear through a defence with kick, handball or run. Nice height and uses it to his advantage to play on smalls and talls. Has a bit of toe as well so will find himself on a list somewhere but Crows are keen I would think. # 8 – PORT ADELAIDE Zac Fitzgerald – Woodville / Torrens / 192cm / 84kg Hasn’t generated the plaudits he deserves. Possibly because as an overage player he was overlooked last year. Played fwd last year in the champs and then played both fwd and back this year with some terrific results particularly his 4 goals vs Metro. Zac showed that he is a good contested mark, handles the ball well below the knees and has good skill execution under pressure. I think one of the other things that stood out for me was that he is a very good reader of the play and some of his efforts against Country were really exceptional. Clearly going to take some time to fill out but there is a heap to work with and I think he will probably end of filling a defensive spine role. # 9 – NORTH MELBOURNE Ben Casley – Western Jets/ 189cm / 82kg Fairly unassuming player but has been very consistent for a disappointing for the Jets this season and probably one of very that will be considered. Casley will appeal as a guy with good height and run as well as good skills by hand and foot. He also has just a terrific sense for reading the ball. Would have been interesting to see how he would have gone in a better side with more support around him. Could play a variety of roles at AFL level and would have been good to see him at DC but was injured I think. Played a couple of games for Willy and went really well (4 goals both games) I think from memory and that is what has probably got him ahead of a couple of others. Exactly the type Scott liked when at Collingwood so I would think he is a chance at Roos. # 10 – CARLTON Josh Marchbank – Northern Knights / 200cm / 88kg To be fair this kid maybe should be higher. Metro rep and have seen him play a few times and whilst he has never dominated always done enough to suggest he is worthy of a spot on someones list. Kid has a super leap on him and uses it to advantage. Tested fairly well in the beep so he is going to give you an effort. I think he might end up with a Jolly like frame. Needs time........but I rate him higher than Ceglar. # 11 – HAWTHORN Ozgur Uysal – Calder / 180cm / 76kg Top age HF for Cannons who played some really good all year and earnt a call up for a couple of VFL games from memory where he was promising. Will settle as a small fwd and has all the things you are looking for as a HF insomuch has a bit of x factor, good pace and agility around the contest, can apply defensive pressure and finishes by foot particularly well. Problem is still only light and may need some weight on him. Dont be surprised if he lands at Hawks. #12 – FREMANTLE Justin Monaco – East Fremantle / 191cm / 86kg Listed as a Tall Defender for combine but will be a HB flank for sure.....getting repetitive.....there are more to come! Seen Monaco a few times and reminds me a bit of a Enright. He is not blessed with a heap of pace but is just a footballers footballer. Reads the play incredibly well and is strong on his feet which is really important for backmen. Plays the percentages and gives everything when out there. The knock on him is that he just lacks that bit of hurt factor because whilst his pace and skills are good....they aren’t elite. Still will dominate at State League and force his way in and from then on will be fine. # 13 – SWANS Cameron Johnston – Geelong Falcons / 181cm / 78kg Neat athletic type player with super attitude who tested very well at Camp. Seems a good reader of the game and uses his pace to advantage to get into uncontested situations. Can play fwd or back but I tend to think he might be used fwd. I think the x factor with Cam is not only his pace but he has an effortless kicking action and it goes for miles! # 14 – BULLDOGS Hayden Yarran – West Perth / 186 / 81 Medium sized fwd who presents as someone who will be very dangerous around goal and would appreciate a faster level. Has a knack of being able to stay on his feet in traffic and make good decisions. Also has good goal sense and skills are fine. He would also offer the prospect of being able to go into the midfield but that is a way off. # 15 – GEELONG Dan Nicholson – Uni Blues / 183cm / 78kg Rising Star winner of the Ammo's will inject some more pace at Cattery. Plays HB flank and has reportedly had a number of clubs visiting him. Apparently came to prominence not only with great results at the Blues but also starred in the VAFA under 19 & 23 games before earning a State Screening where his test results were elite in nearly every category. Dont be surprised if lands at Collingwood. # 16 – SAINTS Leif Cope – Eastern Ranges / 205cm / 98kg Tallest player at camp I think who has huge potential as a ruck prospect but may have been a tad over rated. Maybe needs to get his possession rate up a bit but well rated by the coaches and with the exodus of Saint talls this bloke or someone like Giles is a must. # 17 – COLLINGWOOD Tyler Chalwell - East Fremantle / 193cm / 89kg JB like presence. Played Colts pretty much all year save for a couple of reserves games which he went well in. Played ruck at Colts level but also spent ime up fwd, down back on a wing etc etc. Vertical leap was the equal best of the National Draft Combine but also scored a 14.6 beep test which is good enough to play midfield. Dominates the airspace around him and is very good with his footskills as well. Notwithstanding the limited footage he also seems to show an ability to get the ball moving quickly and also enjoys the physical contact. # 18 – SUNS Jackson Sketcher – Sandringham / 183 / 82 Not sure whether he gets taken or not as he didn’t get invited to any testing but i like these blokes. Is a midfielder who was Capt of the Dragons and was the joint winner of the Morrish Medal with Heppell. Averaged over 25 possessions and a terrific ability to win contested footy. Certainly in the sights of recruiters with his game in the Young Guns game as well. Really came on this year and was an effective midfielder. #19 – WCE Sam Menagola - East Fremantle / 188cm / 83kg Only light but a terrific young tall who has really come on late in the year with a some really good performances at Colts level – I think he also made TAC Cup Team of the Year. Went to State Combine and scored an unbelievable 15.6 beep which was just under what Hector hit. It suggests he could play midfield. Very agile, plays up front, takes a strong mark and finishes his work really well. Blight mightbe a rough chance # 20 – RICHMOND Aaron Elari – Perth / 173 / 73 Look he is only tiny but he is your new Nahas. This kid has serious pace. If you haven’t seen vision of him get it. Tested off the charts for pace and is adept at getting his own pill and kicking a goal. Was in the sights last year after winning Colts B&F and then went on and played well in the WAFL this year. Small.....but has talent and proven he can step up. # 21 – ESSENDON Brayden Grenfell – Calder cannons / 198cm / 84kg Leapt to prominence later in the year and is someone who offers a fair bit as a player who could play as a key fwd, back or even Ruck. Has a willingness for the physical stuff, terrific mobility and a super pair of hands so should be able to get a fair share of uncontested and contested marks. He is raw but a good rookie selection. # 22 – LIONS Jimmi Savage – Norwood / 193cm / 74kg Must admit have not seen live but the kid lights up the screen when you watch him. Mainly played U18’s but think might have played Reserves as well. Plays CHF but will need a lot of time to develop his tiny frame. Still he is very agile, good contested mark and kicking seems fine but not outstanding. Huge talent and one to watch pretty closely. #23 – MELBOURNE Brad Harvey – Eastern Ranges/ 184cm /82kg Got an invite to DC and was one of the best performed. Broke the 20m sprint record originally held by Pearce before losing it to Wilkinson and then was one of the best in agility and the vertical leap (usually the big blokes perform best). As a player he moves well and one of the things that I notice about him is he seems to be a capable ball winner, has good anticipation and has good hands and very assured decision making. No issues with the skills and think he will probably land more as a HBF / Wing type but frankly could see him in a few roles. # 24 – ADELAIDE Corey Buchan – Dandenong Stingrays/ 185cm / 81kg I just love this kid Buchan. Came down late to Rays and made debut after I think Rd 5 or 6 (not sure). Finished up playing nearly every game post then and kicked 50 odd goals. Is a very smart player and to be honest presents in a not dissimilar way to Macaffer at the same stage so unsure where he will fit at senior level (if at all). But he is a very smart footballer and for clubs willing to take a punt on a medium fwd this kid would have to be in the mix. Clubs don’t usually go for these blokes There will be a couple of knocks on him around the fact that whilst he kicked a bag of goals, few came against the good sides and he didn’t have a great finals. # 25 – PORT POWER Nathan Batley – Woodville / 185cm / 74kg Must say I haven’t seen a heap of Nathan outside of a couple of champs games but what I saw i liked. Reminds very much of Simon Tregenza. Has excellent agility and pace but probably lacks a bit of endurance. Gets to a lot of contests and hits the footy pretty hard, has elite speed so has the ability to play HB and Wing in time. Kicking skills are good but am not sure how he tested in that new test. If you want a player that offers real run off HB...he is a good one to think about. # 26 – NORTH Josh Walker – Geelong Falcons / 194cm / 84kg Big enough to hold down a key spot and has terrific agility and endurance for a big fella which allows him to lead up and back much Knock on him is pace and his kicking skills but the times I have seen him they have been ok. Has potential. # 27 - CARLTON Kieran Butcher – Peel / 180 / 78 Another one of those WA kids with really nice skills. I think Quigley is a fan of this kid as well because of his game at BO which we both saw. Capt of the WA side this year Butcher wasn’t invited to DC but rather SS. Huge cont possession winner and a terrific motor but the knock on him I reckon would be his foot skills / penetration. Finished off the year making the league side. # 28 – HAWTHORN Darcey Barden – Northern Knights / 192cm / 92kg Smart footballer, has really strong hands so able to take contested marks but at the same time a good work rate so he can get to a number of uncontested marks as well. Foot skills are good and clubs can feel assured they aint getting a kid who suffers from errant kicking. The knock on Barden is going to be that he just didn’t test as well as clubs might be wanting and they feel his capacity to deliver at the next level is limited. Frankly that is crap because he tested as well as Lynch in some key areas. # 29 – FREMANTLE Ben Bucowaz (FREMANTLE - REDFRAFTED) # 30 – SWANS Rowan Gartlett – Perth / 179 / 73 Nice fit for the Swans having lost Veszpremi. Creative fwd who kicks some great goals and has super pace. I think he played a couple of senior games this year and did pretty well. Not a bad effort having only started Colts this year so will be a chance given he should have a heap of development left. # 31 – BULDDOGS Aaron Mullett – Eastern Ranges / 183cm / 73kg Typical Doggie.....tough and aggressive HB / midfield type who had a great year with Eastern. Plays very similar game to Lester and wouldnt have been surprised to see taken in National. Tested well and his skill level is very much AFL standard so he will be a National or Rookie selection. Needs to eat though. Still only light but he is built of steel. # 32 – GEELONG Anton Hamp – Claremont / 193cm / 83kg Tall and mobile key position fwd who will slot nicely down at the Cats. Got a good engine (tested very well in repeat sprints) for a tall kid and will be able to do the “Riewoldt repeat leads’ without much fuss. Also seems to have good pace so going to be hard to beat if he is in front and in space. Good hands and takes a strong contested mark and finishes his work really well in front of goal. Would need to put some bulk on but a very good prospect. # 33 – ST KILDA Scott Hancock – East Freo / 182 / 78 Be nice if the Saints could release Gram in years to come and this kid could help. HB type from WA who played at champs and did some really nice things. Got good pace and is very clean below his knees and with his execution....sound like Gram? Will be suited to a back pocket or a HBF would suspect but the issue he needs to fix is simply get more ball because when he gets it like he did in the Colts premiership he is impressive. # 34 – COLLINGWOOD Jack Frost – Sandringham / 194cm / 83kg One of my very favourite players and am somewhat surprised he hasn’t been talked about more. Had a terrific year for the Dragons and been really consistent. Has played at both ends of the field and is a terrific height for a KPD or KPF and also has terrific pace (tested faster than Farmer over 20m) and agility. Josh Jenkins or Kory Beard another I would look at. #35 – SUNS Charlie Riewoldt – Tassie / 186cm / 78kg Been on the radar for the Suns so wont surprise. Interesting player and gets discussed more than his results probably speak for but given the surname he is on everyones radars given the formline in the family is solid you can understand why. Creative HF type who as mentioned hasn’t been spectacular but has done enough to suggest he has some ‘tricks’ and in a good development programme would be a nice late pick. Clean hands and nice pace and skills with a knack for kicking some neat goals but the knock is just doesn’t do it often enough. #36 – WCE Tim Houlihan (WCE REDRAFTED) # 37 – RICHMOND Josh Jenkins - Lake Boga / 197cm / 104kg Big fella who I haven’t seen but has been very impressive and seems some chance to make it. Tested really well and if could continue his development suspect a club will be all over him around the new rule. Tigers could well do with this type or even a mature age ruck like Cam Cloke but seems his tickets have run out.....surprising bc he can play good footy when fit and focussed. # 38 – ESSENDON Aaron Sweet – East Perth / 184 /83 21 yo who gave up footy for a year after being on the cusp of AFL for a while. Returned this year and played exceptionally well – runner up in their senior B&F, played for the state side. Strong inside midfielder with good pace who was pretty impressive. Runs hard and capable of winning his own footy. Foot skills are good but not elite. Will probably play HB or Wing and I like him for Essendon because this kid is mentally pretty tough from all reports and frankly the Dons could do with a bit of steel in them. # 39 – LIONS Jarrod Ninyette – Claremont / 186cm / 74kg 23 but presents as an 18yo.....he is a whippet albeit a growing whippett! Has a great motor and genuine pace which enables him to spread and work his opponent over....... great attributes that the modern coach is looking for. Being a Sandgroper there is nothing to worry about from a skills perspective and hence can be damaging on attack as demonstrated by a couple of ‘bags’ in the WAFL. If there was a knock on him its whether or not he will have enough core strength to cope in traffic at a better level and the fact he tapered off towards year end. Nice fit for the Lions and would work well with the Ranga. # 40 – MELBOURNE Larry Owen – Tasmania / 193 / 85 I haven’t seen this kid but tested off the charts at state screening with a 15+ beep test and who seemed to perform pretty well for Tassie all year. Plays mostly key back and whilst a light frame could well be a good rookie selection as should fill out and turn into a strong key back. # 41 – ADELAIDE Jake von Bertouch – WWT / 192 / 79 Crows could do with another tall fwd and whilst I haven’t seen a heap of this kid he looks to tick a few boxes. Performed pretty well at the champs as a key fwd and Probably not quite big enough to play KP but offers the ability to play fwd or back depending on where the development staff point him. # 42 – PORT POWER Declan Reilly – Sandy / 197cm / 84kg Tiny frame on the kid but someone who was on the radar for the National Draft. Went to DC as a ruck prospect but more likely a CHB / CHF type. Wouldnt be surprised to see Kory Beard or Steve Summerton selected here. # 43 – CARLTON Rhys OKeefe (CARLTON REDRAFTED) Might need to go this early because he was a highly fancied junior who just might be on a few clubs lists. # 44 – HAWTHORN Kelvin Lawrence – Peel Thunder / 177cm / 72kg Hawks could do with investing in a couple of these types as i think it will be critical to their next tilt. Indigenous player who can play back or fwd in the same manner Harbrow could when he came down. Has electrifying pace , clever around the goals and has shown he can kick ‘bags’. Knock is his kicking but well worth a shot. # 45 – FREMANTLE Tim Ruffles (REDRAFTED) # 46 – SWANS Jamie Solly – Port / 190 / 86 Tall fwd from Port who just isn’t quite big enough for a key fwd spot and not sure agile enough for HF. Can take a grab and certainly some of his efforts that I saw at Champs have shown improvement. He could miss all together and play some more at Port I fear. Still worth a rookie spot with the Swans because he hits packs hard, good set of hands and a terrific shot on goal. # 47 – BULLDOGS Matthew Outridge – Swan Districts / 183 / 74 Havent seen a lot of Outridge but is very well rated by the local WA folk. Had a terrific year at the Swans where he was Capt of Colts side and then saw a bit of senior action. Wins his own footy and shows an ability to play mid, fwd or back and has good speed and very good foot skills. Noticed he likened himself to one Lenny Hayes..... # 48 – GEELONG Darcy Armfield – Glenelg / 188 / 90 Showed a bit at the champs, I think he kicked 5 in the wet vs WA. Played tall fwd at the champs but he is going to end up a bit like Caf/ ROK in that he will be a tall utility who can play fwd and back. Knows how to kick a goal so pushing fwd will be his weapon. Got athletic ability to play over ground but will take time. # 49 – ST KILDA Rhyce Cooyou – East Fremantle / 182 / 68 Small fwd who presents with an ability to play higher. 19yo from East Freo who has risen up the rankings pretty late and is rumoured to be on 2-3 clubs lists of prospects. Plays HF / Wing and has exceptional pace and uses it to apply defensive pressure. Kicking is good and has decent aerial skills. When I watch him I think Corrie........ # 50 – COLLINGWOOD Isiah Stevens – Swan Districts / 183cm / 75kg You wont have heard much about him because the WA posters (like Swannies / Royal Eagle / ysaye / Monocle etc) don’t want anyone to know. Kid is an excitement machine from WA who has a super leap and terrific skill level – got those Jurrah like qualities but to be fair maybe a bit more like Weedon. Consistency the issue though and hence why here instead of the National Draft. Bit like Peterson insomuch as he plays medium fwd and can do most things. Tested incredibly well and would rather him than Cooyou. You want to see the hanger he took this year....WOW! # 51 – SUNS Ben Duscher – Bendigo / 183 / 80 Medium fwd from the Bombers who had a really good AFL year and oddly only came up on my radar later in the year. Got a few of these types going to the Suns but have just gone with best available for them. Quick and smart and would be a chance to play early next year if he had a good NAB Cup. May end up at Giants. # 52 – RICHMOND Jamie Elliott – Murray Bushrangers / 177 / 74 Played in the Young guns game through the year and bagged 5 goals which will have caught a fews attention. Quick fwd pkt type who is neat with his foot skills and a terrific mark. Was a standout for the Bushies this year and must be on the radar. # 53 – ESSENDON Jay Neagle (ESSENDON REDRAFT) .........personally I wouldn’t bother! # 54 – LIONS Stephen Wrigley – Labrador / 182 / 83 Real roughie and only seen couple of games but had a stellar season at Senior level for Labrador as a HF or HB. Is a 21 yo and according to my source who has seen the QLD SS #’s he tested elite in nearly every category. Would be plenty on front of him because rare for a mature age QAFL player to make it but this guy might be right in the mix. Made team of the year as well for QAFL. # 55 – MELBOURNE Natham Ahmat-Watkins – West Adelaide / 185 / 78 NT player who has been playing in the SANFL. Play midfield and HF / FP and its probably the latter at AFL level for him. Silky mover with good skills and decent pace but not sure he has done enough to be selected. Certainly has the ability but I just wonder whether the consistency is there. Dees can afford to invest time in him. # 56 – ADELAIDE Ian Callinan – Central Districts / 171cm / 77kg Part of the premiership juggernaut that is Central Districts and a bloke who has hasn’t been knocking down the door but rather bulldozing it. Been an outstanding performer for years but many of us had given up on him at the age of 24 I think....now 27. Currently training with the Crows and likey to be selected as a mature age rookie...................finally and good luck to him. # 57 – PORT POWER Gavin Roberts – Norwood / 188 / 80 Port could do with an injection of class and this 19yo who I had in last year’s draft (not drafted because of suspect hamstrings). Seems to have gotten over them this year and went to State Screening and delivered some really good sprint and agility results. Endurance needs some work but he could be a very good midfielder. He reminds me of Pendlebury in that he has a racking left which hits the target and he appears ‘effortless’. Has to be some sort of chance. #58 - CARLTON Kyle Hartigan - I think the Blues have identified key talls as an area of weakness and with Ratten under the pump for results this bloke offers some insurance should someone go down. Probably lacks a bit of agility but has a big frame and can play on the monsters. # 59 – HAWTHORN Kenn Campbell – South Adelaide / 183 / 73 Have only seen vision of this fella and to be honest he would be a bit speculative as he is very very raw. Been playing SANFL footy for Souths off a Wing / HBF and made a terrific debut earlier in the year vs Norwood before injuring his jaw I think. Then played some decent footy in the seniors later in the year after recovering. Went to SA SS and has elite pace (2.8 20m) and endurance. Strong over the footy and has good skills so is someone that will be on the radar but his problem is the difference between best and worst is reasonable. Still probably suited to a higher tempo game and therefore will be looked at. # 60 – FREMANTLE Brock O’Brien (FREMANTLE REDRAFT) # 61 – SWANS Adam Kennedy – Western Jets / 181 / 78 Highly rated by the coaching staff down at jets and could be looked at to play a variety of roles. Think he will settle onto a wing where he can use his pace and his foot skills. Showing a heap of development so could be a surprise packet. # 62 – BULLDOGS Chris Luff – Peel / 191 / 86 Bit of a roughie for the Dogs but they need a key back. 19yo Missed last year but has had a good year in the WAFL. Will add some strength in the back half and a bit of experience having stepped up a grade this year. Frankly still a bit unsure how Litherland went so high and Luff didn’t. Luff isn’t as quick but still very good. # 63 – ST KILDA Robert Eddy (ST KILDA REDRAFTED) # 64 – COLLINGWOOD Nathan Phillips – South Fremantle / 186 / 82 Midfielder from WA who has really committed to his footy in the last 12 months and is now reaping the rewards. Midfielder with good pace and that terrific ability to hurt offensively. Really come on this year after switching clubs and ACL is repairing well so is a chance. Won South’s B&F having only played 13 games! Pies have been speaking to him so will slot him here albeit we dont tend to do mature age rookies. Matthew Outridge would be nice as well. # 65 – SUNS Keifer Yu – Subiaco / 179cm/ 80kg Probably a bit left field but saw him earlier in year and just want to select him. Leapt to prominence early in the year and is someone who offers a fair bit as a player who could play a few roles. Got a knee injury which hurt him through the middle of the year but came back pretty well and didn’t seem to lose any pace. From the little I have seen his skills are sublime and I see him as a wing / HF who has a penchant for the ‘special things’ on a football field. # 66 – RICHMOND Brad Miller (MELBOURNE) #67 - BRISBANE Dean McDonald - Gippsland / 186 / 82 With the success of the Rockliff pick they may just go back to the well and hit this guy. Another of those medium sized players who has the potential to play a variety of different roles over the ground with the right development / training (ala Rocky). strong type and plays like Caf. I had him on the cusp of being a National Draft selection. # 68 – MELBOURNE Ash Hansen (WCE) # 69 – ADELAIDE Andrew Phillips – Lauderdale / 201cm / 91kg What is it with Tassies and being a ranga? Super ruck prospect who has reasonable mobility but super hands. Probably doesn’t do enough around the park but one of the better performed rucks in this draft and I would expect him to be selected. # 70 – PORT POWER Dylan Conway – Western Jets / 183cm? /77? kg Highly rated bottom ager who must have been in the mix for a spot on the Gold Coast list as a 17yo. Represented Metro and averaged 15 possessions through the Championships which for a guy playing off a fwd flank was a pretty good effort. I like him because he does some of the little things really well – chases, tackles, goes pretty hard, takes a good mark and executes his foot skills pretty well so really offers something that are pretty valuable. Kicking resembles a bit of Fevola’s style.......lets hope that is where the similarity ends hey! Nice fit with Port as well. # 71 – CARLTON Peter Labi (INTERNATIONAL) # 72 – HAWTHORN Travis Tuck (REDRAFTED) # 73 – SWANS Mitch Gent – Dandenony Stingrays / 183 / 77 HB type from the Stingrays side who found it hard to get much attention given Hallahan, Treloar and Parker were the main focus. Got more midfield time later in the year where he excelled around the stoppages with his ball winning ability. Knock on the kid is he didn’t test well but testing aint everything....very much a Swans player! # 74 – SUNS Luke Dahlaus – Geelong Falcons / 177 / 72 Another who i had in and out and could go late. Really improved post champs and tested well. Lot like Brad Rowe for those that remember him. Plays fwd pkt, good pace and good goal sense. Will be a rookie at least would have thought. # 75 – LIONS Bart McCulloch (REDRAFTED) # 76 – MELBOURNE Adam Marcon – Northern Knights / 181 / 79 Hard at inside midfielder who was terrific this year and would be a handy addition for Melbourne as back up for Moloney et al. May not get drafted but i think recruiters may have learnt some lessons around Mitchell / Blair etc and look at these types a little closer. Marcon is as good in traffic and at stoppages as I have seen. Also has really good hands. What is going to hold him back is a burst of pace but he does run a 15 beep! # 77 – SWANS David Kruse – NT / 190cm / 74kg Really surprised this kid has flown under the radar because he was pretty impressive at champs. Again don’t be fooled by the fact he was listed as a tall defender at DC because he is more likely to play HB or wing. Like most indigenous kids he has a fair bit of x factor and can be really creative off HB. Super pace so will be interested in how well he tests and skills are very good. Has a good first step and all up would be someone to watch over next year or so because he just could be one out of the box. Knock is he doesnt play his man close enough at times....reminds a bit of Shannon Cox. # 78 – SUNS Stephen Clifton – North Ballarat /184 / 89 Medium height mid from Roosters deserves a chance and would make an immediate impact. Inside midfielder who has dominated for Roosters and has enough AFL attributes to suggest he should go. Improved the outside part to his game so must be a huge chance must he. I think he would be another who could have a good NAB Cup and find himself playing. One for the SuperCoach if he gets picked. # 79 – LIONS Broc MacAuley or Albert Proud (REDRAFTED) # 80 – SWANS Liam Rutledge – Gold Coast / 186 / 82 Never forget seeing this kid for the first time last year and thinking he had some outstanding natural talent. Leads well, strong hands in the mark contest, smart around the fall and finishes well. At one point I rated him as a certain National Draft Selection. Not sure if still on Suns list – if he is then would take Luke Shreeve or Tim Northe. # 81 – SUNS Jordan Eades – Perth / 174 / 70 Kid has a motor and terrific pace. Will burn opponents off much like Rankine does. Only a tiny fella but is worth a late shot and a bit of development. These types are very speculative but the space he will get up north will suit. # 82 – SUNS Kory Beard - Port Magpies / 193 / 89 Tall CHB who would give them a ready to go CHB in much the same manner Port had Darren (?) Mead when they came in. Strong, aggressive and shuts blokes down. Unlucky (not in order) Sam Gray – SA Small who was impressive at Champs and i think even played some senior footy this year. Albert Proud – be a shame if he didn’t get another chance. I think either Lions, Swans or Port Ed Barlow – Training with the Dogs so every chance Tim Northe – Gippy small fwd who won B&F in 09 as bottom ager. Got attributes but didn’t test great. Very smart around contest though and probably should be in. Luke Shreeve – Ex Suns player who is a wing type and runs hard. Todd Grayson – another Suns player who was cut but returned to QAFL and did enough to suggest he may get rookie some where. Jarrad Blight – has talent but needs time in WAFL for me Ryan Cook – It will only be the Giants I would think Sam Cust - Nuggetty little type who tested very well. Plays FP and great around stoppages Roland Ah Chee – NT midfielder cut by the Suns who was good at VFL and can go fwd Michael Stockdale – small mid who performed very well at VFL Luke Potts – small fwd from VFL who tried to get in but to many good ones from WA Shannon Rioli – NT small who hasn’t done enough but the name will bring him into contention Ryan Pendlebury – Same game style as Scott and so maybe taken as a late developer Steve Summerton – terrific mature age inside mid from Port who can go fwd Matt Clarke – 20yo from Labrador who had a super season off HB and would be left field but not a complete surprise. Brendan Fewster – tall from Coburg who frankly should have been taken last year from Calder. Impressive ruckmen. Devin McFarlane – elite left foot who has been thereabouts in the WAFL juniors Mitch Carter – had him going last year and has come on but not sure enought Matthew Snook – SA small who was impressive at champs Nick Liddle – former TAC junior who has had a super SANFL year Nathan Reid – Stephen Witkowski – Northern Knight tall defender who had a good year and would be on radar Chris Hall – Taken off the Freo list and was a very good junior. Crows or Port might nab him Richard Bamblett – Super talent but injury curtailed his year. Plays HF and good be v good Dan Noonan – Tall defender from the Ammo’s. Probably not big enough for KP Jordan Treloar – Good year but probably no standout factor. Expect to see in VFL Jandre Slabbert – tall HB / CHB who was good all year and tested very very well. Rowan Brookes – WA small who was good at Champs but so many good young small fwds he misses Ian Richardson – Should go on results but lacks a yard in recruiters minds Matt Jones – WA ruck who has some tricks but probably just doesn’t get enough of it

Snoop Dog on bigfooty (I know!) has come up with a lengthy one. These are his PSD, GWS priority rookie and zone selections:- PRE SEASON DRAFT 1. Gold Coast Suns Nathan Ablett (Geelong) 2. WCE Blayne Wilson 3. Richmond Bachar Houli (Essendon) 4. Essendon Matt Little (Williamstown / 188 / 84) Mauled them in the VFL this year and whilst medium type fwds dont get much of a look in this bloke has pushed his way into calcs surely. Dogs apparently keen but I would encourage Essendon to give him a go here because whilst he might compete with Williams, 1:1 this guy will give them a terrific option. 5. Fremantle John Anthony (Collingwood) 6. Hawthorn Cameron Bruce (Melbourne) PRIORITY ROOKIE SELECTIONS Myles Sewell North Ballarat / 185cm / 78kg Dont need to write much as we all know he is a wonderful mid for the Roosters and had a couple of ripping years. Michael Hibberd Frankston/ 186cm / 87kg Hibberd is a 20/21yo who has been playing sensational footy in the VFL for Frankston this year after switching from Somerville where he was an excellent junior. Played HB and midfield this year and can play both inside and out. Kid reminds of Hardwick with his attack on the ball and that is what really draws you to the bloke. Has exceptional pace and has got great hands in traffic and seems to more often than not make the right calls. Great left foot and you sense the kid is just getting better and better. John Giles Sturt / 201cm / 100kg Dirty big ranga who is ready to go for the Giants. Dominated SANFL this year and if GWS dont nab him the Tigers should. Ed Curnow Box Hill / 182cm / 83kg Mature age player who has been with the Crows but admitted he wasnt ready. Been a good state league player for some time and his start this year was absolutely awesome. Notwithstanding he injured the knee half way through the year he was a mile ahead in the State voting. Player that will add midfield depth to the Dons and could come in quickly. Caleb Shadbolt West Perth / 186 / 82 21yo who is the ready made player to step up. Have seen him on TV a couple of times and tends to play back across HB where his pace off the flank is a feature. Also uses the ball pretty well like most gropers and he would be well worth a shot. Was in the mix as a junior so a terrific story. Perfect for the Gaints. Cam Pederson Box Hill / 193 / 90 23yo key position defender who had a terrific VFL season. Great selection for the Giants because he will deliver some strength down back next year and would be every chance of featuring on their senior list in 2012. Callum Sinclair Port Melbourne / 200cm / 95kg Along with Giles with give them physicalality around the ruck / stoppages. Also can go fwd and if wasnt taken by the Giants am pretty sure would land a spot on someones rookie and maybe even Suns as he played pretty well on them this year. Shane Valenti Port Melbourne / 176 / 80 Former Melbourne mid who was a standout in the VFL again this year. He should be looked at for the Giants as would give them terrific physical presence around the contest. To good for state league for mine. *have selected all State League players because they are going to need some experience around the kids they get through the zones and who have already committed. Kory Beard was another I considered along with Jenkins, Cook. Look out for Mark Williams to surprise with a couple of SA boys he rates from the SANFL. LIONS ZONE SELECTIONS (3) Tom Bell Morningside / 186 / 82 Big lad who could almost walk in. Super year in the QAFL and just dominates blokes physically even if they are bigger than him. Skills could do with some improvement but he is worthwhile for sure. Micheal Hutchison Aspley / 190 / 76 Only a skinner bugger but tested very well and would make a good third defender who is fast with good endurance. Will settle for HB / Wing Adam Oxley Redlands / 190 / 75 Saw him at Champs a few times and in the QAFL once or twice. Nice midfielder who is very athletic. Stills seems raw but can run fwd and kick a goal and is pretty good overhead. SUNS - ZONE SELECTIONS Jake Crawford - Tall defender who is tough and aggressive and already seen some action in the VFL. Nathan Reid - Tall defender from QAFL who just hadnt seen enough of Matt Clarke - HB from Labrador who had a super season. Runs off HB very nicely. Can they still take him at 20yo? SWANS ZONE SELECTIONS (3) Ben Reid Bendigo / 180 / 66 Harrison Cumming - Eugene Kruger East Coast Eagles / 187 / 80 GWS ZONE SELECTIONS (16) Ranga Erickwarama, Wade Hancock, Kaine Stevens, Josh Cole, James Lawton, Nick Perry, James Webster, Tom Kickett, Josh Duncan, , Blake Bray, Jake King, Nick Ryan, Matt Hutton, Fraser Brown, Tim Segrave, Kane Murphy Sergeant, Brain, Cole, Ollson, Townsend, Milne, Emery could all be considered if the above get listed (eg Perry / Webster etc) but doesnt seem they will be.

The boys were upbeat today and they worked hard in the hot and humid connditions at their new training ground adjacent to AAMI Stadium. Certainly, they would have been far more upbeat than their neighbours, the exponents of the round ball game who would have been hoping that the main ground at the facility would be featuring strongly in 2022. Alas, it was not to be. Our boys were doing a lot of running and there was an air of enthusiasm about the group despite the conditions. The usual suspects all looked to be in outstanding knick and I speak of Colin Sylvia who is looking superb and James Frawley who is an absolute monster. Expect big seasons from both of them. I think the word "big" is the order of the day for the MFC. The players are putting in a big effort and a number of players are getting bigger. We have some big boys (in terms of height) who have come to the club although by the look of them, they need some time to build up in size and fitness to match many of the now seasoned players at the club. The four draftees - Cook, Howe, Davis and Tom McDonald joined in some of the drills but didn't seem to be doing all of the really intensive stuff being done by most of the group - perhaps they are being slowly brought up to their levels. The really big unit (apart from the Russian and Jake Spencer who are men mountains) is Lynden Dunn who really looks powerful and, if he continues in that vein, will have enormous confidence going into the 2011 season. Now, if only he could shave off that ridiculous looking moustache which he must be retaining as part of a bet. Liam Jurrah looks stronger in the arms and shoulders but not overly so while Flash also seems to have more definition in the upper ams. They're not as big as Nathan Jones and Beamer but it's clear that a lot of work has been done in the off season so far. It was great to see Aussie back on deck after his period of mourning. Whilst stockily built, I wouldn't say that he's carrying any excess weight and I wish him well - he's had a tough run. Max Gawn was training. He said that his knee was fine, there are no problems and he's enjoying training. Not everybody is really big and bulky. Cale Morton, Jack Watts are still slim by comparison and I suppose that's their metabolism. Generally, I must say I loved the training, the ground is great, the facilities at AAMI are brilliant and everything's looking up at the club. Certainly, there's nobody breaking down like at a few other clubs so we'll keep our fingers crossed. As from next Friday, training moves across to Casey Fields so I'm hoping some Demonlanders living over there can provide some reports. I noticed a few other interested spectators around this morning and I'd be interested to hear their views.

Backward step IMO even when it's a rookie draft pick. The idea of the rookie draft was originally conceived as a way to encourage young players coming up through the pathway to AFL football. Now, it's being used to recycle old faces. If we're going to give a player a second chance I'd prefer it to be someone in the 22 - 23 year range like Port Adelaide Magpies Jonathan Giles. If it works out he has a future at the club.