The hype surrounding a possible state of origin game next year has come to an abrupt halt as the AFL announces it's plan for its 150 year celebrations.
Instead of the typical Victoria v SA or WA, other state teams will be represented by a "dream team" comprising of all players not from Victoria.
The two teams are set to play off in one game to be played on May 10 at the MCG.
AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou said today the match would be a one-off and would attempt to draw on the 50 best players for what the league has dubbed its Hall of Fame tribute match.
Mark Thompson has been announced the coach of the Victorian team, with Kevin Sheedy the assistant and Jonathan Brown the captain.
Mark Williams will lead the combined team, with Neale Daniher his right hand man and Andrew Mcleod the skipper.
Demetriou said 35-man squads for the match would be picked after round three or four next year, then whittled down over the month leading up to the match.
The match is set to receive backlash from every direction as most fans and players would rather see the traditional State of Origin return.
Daniel Kerr has already said he would not play in a team that comprised of players from other states.
Pick #41 - Brisbane Callan Ward Western Defender
Rated by a lot of people, but just doesnt do it for me. Really good user of the ball and is always improving. Brisbane will love to add another midfielder to its ranks. I can see why a lot of people rate him. Could go anywhere.
Pick #42 St Kilda Robbie Tarrant Bendigo Tall Forward
Seems a fair bit injury prone (something St Kilda dont need), however with the retirement of Gehrig and Watts departure I think the Saints will swoop on Robbie. Is a very athletic CHF, and has a lot of expectations. Can he live up to it? Im not so sure.
Pick #43 Western Bulldogs James Mulligan South Port Ruck
Very skilled and Athletic ruckman who is just new to the game. Can play down forward and as some similarities to Matthew Richardson. Will develop a lot in the next few years and will be a good pick up for the Dogs.
Pick #44 - Geelong Dan McKenna Gippsland Tall Forward
Floats between CHF and CHB. Geelong may look for another tall now that Playfair, Hunt and Gardiner are now gone. McKenna dominated in the first 5 rounds, however struggled to some extent to adapt to the wetter conditions.
Pick #45 - Hawthorn Ashley Hockey Murray Bushrangers Small Defender
Likes to win his own football, and can really give a link option out of defense. Floated a lot through the midfield and has shown that he has clean hands and overall skills. The hawks will love another polished midfielder to come into the team in a few years time.
Pick #46 - Carlton Luke Sampey East Perth Tall Forward
The loss of Kennedy and Whitnall means that they are a little short on Key talls. Sampey is the best available at this stage. Very consistent goal kicker throughout the year. Doesnt have the bells and whistles that many have, but you know you will get a good hard honest player.
Pick #47 - Collingwood Scott Meyer Williamstown Tall Back
Scott is a tall defender out of Williamstown. Mick Malthouse is a massive fan of this kid and with the Retirement of Clement and the aging of its stars down back Meyer may just earn a spot on the list. Not well built but has a lot of potential.
Pick #48 Western Bulldogs Mitchell Farmer Calder Midfield
Can play at either end of the field and well. Is tough as nails and a good user of the ball. Has some real leadership qualities that the Doggies will also look at. Pretty highly rated so the doggies will get a bargain.
Pick #49 Port Adelaide Adam Iacobucci Williamstown Midfield
A hard at it midfielder who earns another spot on an AFL list. Adam and Todd Grima will fight it out for this spot. Adam loves the contest and hitting the packs hard. Didnt get a shot at Collingwood and Williams can turn hacks into decent players.
Pick #50 - Geelong Scott Thompson Geelong VFL Tall Defender
Had a sensational end to the season did Scotty. Dominated for the cats in the VFL with his rebound and usage off the backline. Can play a nullifying role or can be used as a create option. The cats will be laughing all the way to the bank with this pick.
Pick #51 - Richmond Jarrod Silvester Coburg Tall Back
Very similar player to Scott. Both are great users of the ball out of defense. Richmond will have had a good look at him this year and surely must be in calculations if Richmond are serious about winning games of football.
Pick #52 - Brisbane Jackson Hall Gippsland Medium Forward
Steal for Brisbane this late in the draft. Hall can do it and pretty well. Went forward and kicked 4 goals in one game, however was mostly seen creating run off the half back line. Not a player that the lions really need, however to good to go past this late.
Pick #53 - Melbourne Alistar Neville Coburg Midfield
Freak midfielder who tore WA a new hole when he played them. Was Coburgs best player for the year. Very classy disposal and never has an off day. Attacks the packs with his first and second efforts.
Pick #54 Essendon James Polkinghorne Calder Midfield
Showed some poise when he went down back, however he made his name in the midfield this year. He has good hands and is excellent at ground level. His skills are good and is a leader. Essendon will take him and give him time to develop in the VFL.
Pick #55 - Fremantle Kepler Bradley Essendon Tall Back
Kepler has been training with the Dockers and looks set to get another life line in the west.
Pick #56 - Brisbane Ryan Normington Murray Bushrangers Medium Forward
A little injury prone and that will make him available late. Another versatile Forward who can play all over the ground. Nice disposal and a good goal sense, a real snap up late in this draft especially if he can keep out of the physio room.
Pick #57 St Kilda Matthew Lobbe Eastern Ruck
King isnt the safest bet and McEvoy could be used else where. Lobbe won the B&F last year for Eastern playing out of the ruck. Spent this year at CHF where he was patchy at times. He will ideally play Ruck at an AFL club. His draft camp tests were good and he is on the way to becoming an AFL player.
Pick #58 Adelaide Jarrhan Jacky Subiaco Small Forward
Has only played footy for a few years, and has a great goal sense. Still learning the game in many ways and has only just started to step up into the midfield. The talent Adelaide have recruited means they can afford to take a punt on players later in the draft.
Pick #59 - Sydney Craig Bird Nelson Bay Midfield
Sydney get their first scholarship player in their ranks.
Pick #60 - Geelong Adam Donohue Geelong Small Defender
Geelong get him F/S
Pick #61 - Collingwood Jaxon Braham Geelong Midfielder
Collingwood get him F/S
Pick #62 - Kangaroos Ian Callinan Central Districts Small Forward
Ian has done preseasons with AFL teams before, and did one last year with the Kangaroos. The moving on of Whyman leaves the door open for a mature goalsneak. He is clinical in his finishing and is very hard to stop once he starts to get on a bit of a roll.
Pick #63 - Bulldogs Brett Meredith Northern Medium Defender
Missed the start of the year with shoulder injuries, however came back and averaged 33 touches in the TAC. He has excellent skills on either side of his body and can float forward and kick goals.
Pick #64 - Richmond Patrick Rose Williamstown Small Forward
A small leading forward with a lot of potential. Kicks goals when they are needed and rarely goes missing as some players do. A real bargain this late in the draft.
Pick #65 - Carlton Josephy Daye Zillmere Tall Defender
Never going to be a big option as a defender however will play a 3rd Darren Milburn type role. Really athletic and is at his best when he is running and carrying the ball off half back.
Pick #66 - Melbourne -Andrew Renton - Eastern Ruck
Tall Ruckman who showed some signs this year. The dees will add another ruckman to develop and may as well take one with a bit of potential.
Pick #67 Western Bulldogs Guy OKeefe Geelong Falcons Midfield
Needs to build his aerobic capacity to play more in the midfield. However will make a really good half forward or half back. Skill wise is very dangerous. He works hard to get to the packs and gives lots of 2nd and 3rd efforts.
Pick #68 - Essendon Clayton Hinkley North Ballarat Midfield
Express speed which will see Essendon dribble at the mouth. Is a genuine link player in the midfield and put in an impressive draft camp. Essendon need a bit more pace and he will deliver it.
Pick #69 - Fremantle Michael Dell Aquila Eastern Midfield
Good on his feet and good one on one. Spent most of his time in the midfield but also spent time in the forward line. Was unlucky because he did a hamstring at draft camp meaning he couldnt do all the tests. If you want a word that sums him up then think smart.
Pick #70 St Kilda Harry Taylor East Fremantle Tall Back
Can play almost everywhere. He has great agility and endurance which sets him apart from many other players. AFL clubs are interested, its just hard to see where he will go. This late in the draft he is worth the punt.
Pick #71 - Adelaide Matthew Westhoff Central District Medium Forward
His brother will help him get drafted here, however he will head to opposition ranks. Adelaide are looking for more forward options and Westhoff is as good as they come here. Very similar player to his brother. Very good on the lead and excellent infront of goal.
Pick #72 - Kangaroos Trent Dennis - Lane Subiaco Small Forward
Exciting and quick small forward. The Roos will love this player because he could develop into a very handy footballer in the future.
Pick #73 - Melbourne Shane Valenti Sandringham Midfielder
Runner up in the VFL B&F as well as taking the Fothergill Round medal for the best young prospect. Valenti is making waves into AFL circles. A player that will be to good for VFL and is still young. Melbourne have seen him all year with their VFL affiliate and look like they will take him.
Pick #74 - Fremantle Edward Curnow Geelon Falcons Midfielder
He is a Brett Kirk type tagger with great endurance. Can run all day and nullify him opponent. The dockers dont really have a real tagger so Curnow will fit in well there.
Pick #75 - Adelaide Taylor Walker North Broken Hill Medium Forward
Adelaides Scholarship player
Ben Cousins just moments ago was suspended from the AFL for 12 months for bringing the game into disrepute as well as conduct unbecoming.
Chairman Mike Fitzpatrick said the situation was a sad day for football.
In a press conference at AFL House Ben said that the media was miss informed about his rehabilitation.
He said he was further down the track than what many people believe.
He finished with an apology to the AFL, the players and the supporters.
He also thanked his friends and family for all their support.
It is unknown if Ben will continue his football career.
More news as it comes
Pick #21 - Melbourne Brendan Whitecross Zillmere Midfielder
To Compliment their forward stocks the demons add another talented midfielder to their ranks. Missed the first half of the season with an injury, however had a stellar end to the year. Really vocal out on the ground and has excellent disposal.
Pick #22 - West Coast Levi Greenwood Port Adelaide Medium Defender
West Coast would love another hard at it running defender/midfielder and Greenwood is just that. Loves to hit the packs and create run and carry. From what I have seen he is very hard to beat one on one and has a long penetrating kick.
Pick #23 - Essendon Patrick McGinnity Claremont Midfielder
Essendon will take another classy midfielder to replace its aging stars. McGinnity came second in the Colts best and fairest and is a real tough nut. He is very hard at the ball and player and wins lots of the football.
Pick #24 - Fremantle Tony Notte Tall Forward Swan Districts
Fremantle will look to add another tall forward to their brigade. Notte is a very athletic and mobile CHF/FF. He is a very reliable kick on goal and is a very strong overhead mark.
Pick #25 - Brisbane Tom McNamara Tal Defender South Adelaide
Another tall defender to Brisbane is a possibility as they sort out their issues down back. Tom will develop into a CHB. He reads the play well and is cool under pressure. He has the ability to win contested footy. He is also very disciplined.
Pick #26 - Sydney Addam Maric Calder Medium Forward
With the loss of the some small forwards, and with the others starting to kick on, Addam seems the perfect fit for the Sydney siders. He is a great crumber and has excellent goal sense. Can use both his left and right foot equally and has a good footy nous.
Pick #27 - Adelaide Dawson Simpson Murray Bushrangers Ruck
With the departure of Hudson and Meesen, the Crows will be looking for another midfielder. Struggled earlier in his career, then put on 20kgs and is now one of the top ruck prospects. His ability to improve got him into the Vic Country team as starting ruck. Great height and a solid build.
Pick #28 Port Adelaide Patrick Veszpremi Northern Small Defender
Absolute steal for Port Adelaide at 28. Broke his thumb and missed the championships, however he was a bottom aged AA the year before. Highlight of the year was when he kicked 8 goals in a half against Gippsland. Can play either up forward or down back. Is a great kick over 50 meters. He has a real touch of class about him that is for sure.
Pick #29 Hawthorn Stewart Dew Port Adelaide Midfield
The Hawks seem pretty keen on Stewwy, however could go to Adelaide at pick 27.
Pick #30 Adelaide Ashley Arrowsmith Calder Midfield
Adelaide will want another goal kicking midfielder and Arrowsmith is as good as they come. Can play on a wing or on a flank and kick goals. Had a terrific finish to the season. Very dangerous when near goal and is pretty accurate.
Pick #31 - Collingwood Andy Otten Oakleigh Tall Forward
Very athletic player who can go down back or up forward. His height is good and so is his weight. One of those players who could go high or drop low. Collingwood will show interest as they look to reform their back line.
Pick #32 - Kangaroos Chris Kangas Geelong Midfield
More of an athlete than a footballer. He runs 400m quicker than Cathy Freeman. The Roos need a genuine runner of the football and Kangas fits that bill. Not the best skill wise but the potential and the development is there for all to see.
Pick #33 Port Adelaide Steven Browne West Perth Small Defender
Port again will look for a new batch of smaller players with Browne. Played some senior football towards the end of the year and was BOG in his second game. Reads the play well off half back, and found that extra level when moving up from the Colts. He has a good ability to become the third man up and a contest.
Pick #34 - Geelong Joel Smouha Mt Gravatt Ruck
The loss of King will mean Geelong will be looking for a young ruckman to develop. The Development of Blake and West into handy footballers means there is less pressure on the player who the cats take, and also allows them to take another risk with high reward. Joel Smouha played his first season of football and was able to hold his own in the premiership winning Mt Gravatt side. Coming from a soccer background he has great athleticism and endurance. His skill by foot are a little off, however he is super at ground level.
Pick #35 Western Bulldogs Scott Simpson Tall Forward Dandenong
The dogs need another forward and Simpson is the best available now. He comes from a rugby background and has only played footy for 3 years. Is a tireless worker who presents up the ground similar to Reiwoldt. Is very professional in his work ethic and continues to improve every time I see him.
Pick #36 - Carlton Sam Ried Zillmere Midfield
Carlton need some more quality ball winners and Reid is a decent player. Had a disappointing carnival, however was good every other time played. Could easily settle onto a flank or in the backline. His disposal is pretty good and is a decent ball carrier.
Pick #37 - Kangaroos Patrick Dangerfield Geelong Midfield
The Kangaroos will look to add some versatility to their team and Dangerfield will do just that for them. Can play either tall or small and any position on the ground. Has a good work ethic, great endurance and very good speed. Could easily be a pick early in the 20s.
Pick #38 Western Bulldogs Aaron Joseph Tasmania Mariners Midfield
Became the first player to win back to back MVPs for Tasmania. The dogs would love another classy player who can win his own ball. He is a high possession getter who is very competitive and has a never say die attitude. Average 27 touches in 9 games at the under 18s. He recorded the best time at draft camp for agility and also had a pretty good sprint test.
Pick #39 - Essendon Darcy Daniher Calder Tall Defender
Essendon are guaranteed this player under father son. Considering there was a bid for this player, you would expect many teams to rate him.
Pick #40 - Fremantle Will Sullivan Western Ruck
Fremantle will look to fill the void left by Longmuir with the recruitment of Sullivan. A bit of a risk however he does have a lot of upside. Will have to work hard to make it at AFL Level. However his ability to run. His best game was against Bendigo where he had 40 hit outs, 22 possessions and 12 marks.
More Tomorrow
Pick #01 - Carlton Matthew Kreuzer Northern Knights Ruck
Carlton have already committed to this big fella. Is extremely athletic and gives it his all. He won pretty much every award in the TAC cup this year. Carlton ruck stocks are low and he will add some quality to a growing midfield of superstars. Can kick goals, as shown by his 6 goal haul in one TAC cup game. Only missed one training session for the year so he can play through injury very well. Just needs to work more now on his over head marking
Pick #02 - Richmond Trent Cotchin Northern Knights Midfield
Quality midfielder and something the Richmond are after. The pressure will be on Miller and his crew to get a gem from this pick with recent lower pick failings. One thing they wont want to do is make the same mistake they did a few years ago by taking Tambling over Franklin. This pressure should be enough to see them take Cotchin. He has great balance and awareness and he reads the game very well for a 18 year old. Despite being a bottom age player this year he was a vice captain, so his leadership skills are also very good.
Pick #03 West Coast Rhys Palmer East Fremantle Midfield
Many people would have thought Morton would be snapped up by the eagles. However I the loss of Judd will see them take a quality midfielder in Palmer. He played senior football all year, where his excellent disposal by foot was on show. A big bonus for him is his endurance so he can spend longer periods in the midfield.
Pick #04 Melbourne Cale Morton Claremont Tall Forward
Spent a lot of time playing for his school, however had a fantastic championship. Really athletic for a tall bloke. May turn into a tall midfielder however he can go either forward or back. The demons would love some versatility in their team and Morton will be the perfect fit.
Pick #05 - Bulldogs Lachie Henderson Geelong Falcons Tall Forward
The dogs are on a mission to boost their tall stocks and Henderson looks like the player they will go for. He is fantastic in pack situations, and is mobile around the ground. He broke his leg and missed a lot of footy this year, however many people liken him to a young Matthew Pavlich.
Pick #06 Essendon Brad Ebert Port Adelaide Midfield
Didnt take him long to settle into senior football after starting the year in the reserves. Played mostly up forward but will turn into a midfielder with some pre seasons. Very good around the ground and has great endurance. Essendon will love a player like him after recent retirements and delistings.
Pick #07 - Fremantle Alex Rance Swan Districts Tall back
The Dockers will be looking for another tall defender to develop in their squad. They seem to lack a real quality Tall defender, something Rance is. Got selected as an All-Australian after playing most of the year in the Colts. Has great speed for a big man.
Pick #08 Brisbane David Myers Perth Tall Back
One main weakness the Lions have is a lack of tall defenders. He is athletic enough to play in the midfield. He carries the ball well and has a racking left foot. Has a real confidence about the way he plays which will see him slip into senior football pretty easily
Pick #09 St Kilda Ben McEvoy Murray Bushrangers Ruck
The Saints will want another tall to add to their list. With an ageing ruck stock, McEvoy seems like the perfect fit. Can play either end and has been equally as good in each position he plays. The saints will want him to turn into a ruckman so he can replace King and relieve Kosi.
Pick #10 Adelaide Chris Masten East Fremantle Midfield
Adelaide with the loss of the Roo will be looking for a quality onballer to join their brigade. Has slipped into senior football well and has played a lot of representative football. Can really take games by the scruff of the neck with his good disposal and his work around the packs.
Pick #11 Sydney Tayte Pears East Peth Tall Defender
Sydney will be after a tall defender as their backs start to kick on in age. Was unlucky not to make the All-Australian side. He will be settled into travelling after spending most of the season coming down from the county to play for East Perth.
Pick #12 - Hawthorn Tom Collier Lauderdale Tall Back
Tall defenders seem the order of the year, and the Hawks will look towards Tom Collier as their solution. Tom is a big man who acts like a midfielder and has great athleticism. Will fit into the Hawks game plan extremely well and will be seen as a running defender.
Pick #13 West Coast Jack Grimes Northern Midfielder
Another midfield boosting move by the Eagles. Had some back problems earlier in the year, however he is totally over them. Grimes can also go down back and play a running defender role. Highly skilled player who you hardly see turn the ball over.
Pick #14 Melbourne Cyril Rioli St Marys Small Forward
Cyril struggled with injury and never really peaked at full fitness. Every time he stepped out onto the pitch he kicked goals. Played as a lead up forward in the champs, but will be a genuine small leading forward at AFL level. The Dees will look at him to help out the likes of Robertson and Neitz. Is a quality player who wont get home sick.
Pick #15 - Kangaroos David Gourdis Tall Forward Subiaco
Nathan Thompson is the Roos only real tall forward, so they will look at Gourdis as a player who they can mold to take over his role. He can crash packs, however his foot skills are a little inconsistent. David had a sensational Draft camp where he equaled the 20m sprint record and smashed the vertical leap record.
Pick #16 Port Adelaide Jarrod Grant Dandenong Tall Forward
Another tall that will be taken this time by Port Adelaide. A presenting forward with excellent straight line speed. One thing that will really impress the recruiters is his genuine goal kicking ability. Would fit well into the Powers forward line.
Pick #17 - Geelong Steve Gaetner Dandenong Tall Back
Steve Gaetner is a real athlete rather than a footballer, however he has a lot of improvement and ability. Still has a lot of work to do, however works really well offensively. Could play on a wing but is suited to play tall down back. Geelong need a tall forward and with a lot of depth can afford to take a project player.
Pick #18 - Richmond Tom Bellchambers Northern Bombers Ruck
Seeing Richmond take an interest in Guy Richards tells me they need a ruckman. Bellchambers is the second best ruck going around behind Kruezer. Is a true tap ruckman, however he needs to work more around the ground. Saw a game he played against Casey in the VFL where he beat Matthew Clarke who is a really experienced AFL player.
Pick #19 Western Bulldogs Marlon Motlop NT Thunder Forward
The search for another forward will see the Dogs take Marlon Motlop. Plays a similar role to Brad Johnson which will get Dogs supporters excited. Finishes really well once inside 50. Not limited to the forward line, because he can play on the wing.
Pick #20 - West Coast Scott Selwood - Bendigo Midfielder
Really tough running defender and midfielder. The Eagles will look to reunite Adam and Scott to their midfield. Scott is tough at the pack and at the person who never gives up. His disposal is very good and works tirelessly. Has great endurance and is able to get to the packs well.
More Tommorrow
Today in AFL
Adelaide
* Scott Welsh has quit the club and looks set to join the Bulldogs.
*Adelaide has stated its interest in drafting Stewart Dew in the National Draft
Brisbane
*Daniel Bradshaw is set to miss the first two rounds of the AFL season as he recovers from a knee injury.
* Brisbane aim for 28,000 members after recording a profit in 2007
Carlton
* No News
Collingwood
* No News
Essendon
* Peter Garret went to windy hill to announce the labor party Green Precinct election policy
Fremantle
* No News
Geelong
* AFL states that it is unlikely that Skilled Stadium will host a finals match. Frank Costa still remains hopeful.
*Cats fans have a chance to have a photo with the premiership cup.
Hawhtorn
*Stewart Dew announced he would like to go to Hawthorn.
Kangaroos
* Kangaroos board are could make a decision on the Gold Coast as early as today.
Melbourne
* Melbourne will look for talented youth in this seasons preseason draft.
Port Adelaide
* No News
Richmond
* Guy Richards set to go to Richmond with their first preseason draft pick
St Kilda
* No News
Sydney
* The fight between Willie Mason and Barry Hall has been put on hold.
Western Bulldogs
* Scott Welsh is set to come to the dogs in the pre season draft
* Scott West and Brad Johnson still not looking at retirement.
West Coast Eagles
* Peter Sumich has thrown his support behind Ben Cousins
* US police still to decide whether to charge Ben Cousins.
As speculated Scott Welsh has indeed left the Crows and now looks set to join the bulldogs.
However both parties will have to wait till the preseason draft to see if Welsh makes it through.
In order for Welsh to be a Bulldog they need to hope Carlton, Richmond and Melbourne all decide to pass on the 28 year old premiership player.
Richmond look set to take Guy Richards with its pick, while Melbourne are looking towards youth instead of established players.
The Dogs offered Welsh a two year deal, something Adelaide did not want to do considering Welshs off field behavior and recent injury problem.
The Bulldogs entered last months trade period looking for a forward, and targeted Russell Robertson.
However once Robertson committed to the Demons the Dogs shifted their sites to watching Welshs negotiations.
The attempt to sign a key forward comes after failed attempts to draft key forwards in the national draft.
He is a four-time club leading goalkicker at Adelaide, and has a habit of wreaking havoc against the Dogs, kicking 20 goals in his last six outings against them, including a bag of seven in 2004.
Welshs career includes 165 games and 300 goals.
Adelaide
* Scott Welsh still cannot come to terms on a new contract and may be on his way out.
Brisbane
* Irish Recruits come to try their hand at Aussie Rules
*Patrick Garner (Brisbane Lions); William Hamill (Brisbane Lions rookie) are training with the club
Carlton
* Carlton announce deal with Visy and will become the AFLs greenest club
*Richard Pratt may lose Carlton presidency after collusion court case
* Irish Recruits come to try their hand at Aussie Rules
Collingwood
* Retired midfielder Paul Licuria will take and administration role and help set up its new stand alone team.
* Irish Recruits come to try their hand at Aussie Rules
* Mick Malthouse excited by clubs young talent
Essendon
* No News
Fremantle
* Kepler Bradley (Essendon); Blake Broadhurst (Subiaco); Clayton Collard (Fremantle); Brad Dalziell (East Fremantle); Ryley Dunn (Fremantle); Kyal Horsley (Subiaco); Calib Mourish (Fremantle) are all training at the club.
Geelong
* No News
Hawhtorn
*James Allen (Box Hill Hawks); Luke Barker (Box Hills Hawks); Nathan Batsanis (Port Adelaide rookie); Brett Collins (Hawthorn rookie); Adam Iacobucci (Northern Bullants); Tom Langford (Port Melbourne); Lukas Markovic (Box Hill Hawks); Ben Sharp (West Coast Eagles rookie); Callum Urch (Kangaroos) are training with the club
*Motivation from win against Adelaide will set Hawthorn up for 2008
Kangaroos
* The Kangaroos are becoming increasingly angry with the AFL's failure to produce a formal offer to move to the Gold Coast.
* Jarrod Bannister (Northern Bullants); David Trotter, Kangaroos; James Wilsen (St George) are training at the club
Melbourne
* Daniel Hughes (Melbourne rookie); Alister Neville (Coburg); Ashley Sampi (West Coast); Jonathan Simpkin (Sydney); Peter Summers (Sandringham); Shane Valenti (Sandringham) are training at the club
Port Adelaide
* Jesse Aish (Norwood); Lachlan Button (Glenelg); Tom Carroll (South Adelaide); Ryan Darling (Sturt); Aaron Day (Glenelg); Sam Fairclough (Woodville West Torrens); Nathan Grima (Central Districts); Daniel Havelberg (Central Districts); Matthew Jaensch (Sturt); Luke Jarrad (Woodville West Torrens); Scott Luders (West Adelaide); Alan Obst (Central Districts); Steve Wenman (West Adelaide) are all training at the club
Richmond
* New recruit Mitch Morton is happy to be at Richmond and sees the club as a fresh start to his career.
* Joe Gazzo (Coburg); Andrew Horne (Coburg); Cam Howat (Richmond rookie); Lachlan McKinnon (Essendon rookie); Carl Peterson (Richmond); Darren Pfeiffer (Adelaide); Jarrod Silvester (Coburg) are all training at the club
St Kilda
* Rohan Bell (Mt Gravatt); Michael Barlow (Shepparton United); Ben Woods (Riverview) are training at the club
Sydney
* Irish Recruits come to try their hand at Aussie Rules
* Jude Bolton hurt by being named as trade bait
* Brendan Murphy (County Carlow, Ireland); Matt O'Dwyer (Sydney); Jake Orreal (no previous club); Sam Rowe (Sydney) are training at the club
Western Bulldogs
* Cameron Lockwood (Williamstown); Scott Meyer (Williamstown); Liam Picken (Williamstown); Patrick Rose (Williamstown); Ryan Williams (La Trobe) are training at the club
West Coast Eagles
* Ben Cousins asked to tell all about his drug use
* John Worsfold believes that the Ben Cousins situation has left the clubs reputation in tatters.
* Ashley Thornton (West Coast Eagles rookie); Beau Wilkes (West Coast Eagles rookie) are training at the club
Its pretty obvious that Ben Cousins needs help. The recent reports of a 5 day cocaine binge show that he has some serious issues with substance abuse.
As a society we cannot wipe our hands clean of this situation. Ben needs more help than what a drug rehabilitation center can give.
The media are partly to blame for this. It is impossible to give up an addiction with constant scrutiny of your every move.
At some stages in recent weeks it got to the point where we knew when Ben farted.
While the medias job is to report what is news worthy, they also have a responsibility to look after the person they are reporting on.
They are not doing this. Following Ben to LA and constantly hounding him in Australia is not doing Ben any favours.
Surely these journalists have something better to report on.
Society cannot afford to turn their back on Ben, when support is what he needs.
While Ben has had many chances that many dont get, you cant turn your back of someone who is on their knees.
The West Coast Eagles have done this. The incident that led to Ben being sacked from the club was a non event.
Do the Eagles need to be reminded he has not been charged with any drug related violations?
Could it be that he refused to do the drug test out of frustration. If he knew he was clean he
had nothing to prove.
While this situation may take 6 months to clear up, we need to be more accepting not just of Ben, but people like Ben whose life is a daily struggle.
If we just lay off him and let him get the treatment he needs without interference, then maybe we will see this superstar grace a footy ground somewhere in Australia again.
With the draft only 2 weeks away I thought it would be a good time to run through who I think are the best draftees in Australia.
Over the past year I have watched these kids in the TAC cup and in the National Championships. Also thanks to some relatives interstate I have been able to see some games of the talented interstate kids.
Firstly, this is not a mock draft. It doesn't represent where I think they will go, rather who I think will be the best in the long term.
Next Saturday I will do a mock draft, similar to the one on the AFL site. So stay tuned.
I have included just brief details on all 30. However for my mock draft more information will be given. I have also included another group of players who could possibly be in the top 30, however just missed.
1. Rhys Palmer Just does everything so well. Really accomplished player.
2. Ben McEvoy Can play either end of the ground and in the ruck. Will be a super player for many years. Really good prospect.
3. Matthew Kruezer Has a lot of development left, but has heaps of potential. Good tap, and some great versatility. Love the way he tackles, and his effectiveness below his knees.
4. Chris Masten Pretty nifty midfielder, who runs and kicks. His second efforts are great and has a good goal sense.
5. Trent Cotchin Is a super player, however his value will just be pushed out a bit by the likes of Palmer and Masten. No doubt will be a super player. He reminds me a bit of a Gary Jnr, so he will be hot property.
6. Cale Morton He had a super carnival which would have improved his stocks. The Morton's are looking to be a good footy family. Just oozes class all round.
7. Lachie Henderson Missed with injury, however he has been highly touted. He has big impacts on games, and will be a very good forward at AFL level.
8. Bradley Ebert I like the way he attacks the man and the ball. Is a definite player to watch out for. Not sure if clubs may be put off with some performances, however for me looks like a great package.
9. Tayte Pears He will be a pretty good defender, and someone that AFL scouts look for. Love the way he spoils.
10. Alex Rance Can throw it up between Rance and Pears. They are both even in my books. Rance is a good player out of defence.
11. Jack Grimes Gets a heap of the ball and reads the play very well. A question over his pace though.
12. Jarad Grant Love this bloke. He is just a quality player. A lot of people dont rate him. I think he will be super.
13. Tom Collier Highly talented and a big ball getter. Runs so much for a big man. One to watch.
14. Scott Selwood Really good player, who is as tough as nails. Just needs to work harder.
15. Thomas Bellchambers Really strong ruckman, love his tap work. Would love to see him come up against Kruezer.
16. James Polkinghorne - A natural leader, and has great hands. He is also super up forward. Showed a lot of character and is very versatile.
17. Steve Gaertner - Athlete playing footy. Has a lot of work to do in defence, however on the attack is very good. When looking at him think Tom Williams.
18. Ryan Normington - Had some knee problems. He has played 24 out of 39 games over two years. Is very adaptable, and can play all over the game. He has been able to do this successfully. His best position would be in the midfield.
19. Levi Greenwood - Inside midfielder. He is hard at the packs and is hard to beat one on one. Loves to run and kick it long.
20. Patrick Veszpremi - Broke his thumb and missed the nationals, however was an Under 18 All-Australian in his first year. Plays at either end and is accurate over 55 meters. Can kick goals.
21. Cyril Rioli - Had some injury problems. Was very good at the nationals. Plays as a lead up forward, however won't sustain it at AFL level. Playing division two is a query.
22. Addam Maric - A talented player. Great crumber, and a super goal sense. Can use both feet which is a massive bonus.
23. Patrick Dangerfield - Plays tall or short. Very good speed and great endurance.
24. Dave Gourdis - Plays CHF/HFF and is a real athlete. For a big man is a good mark and great at crashing the packs.
25. Guy OKeefe - Smart forward. Reads the game well and is a great decision maker. Is a very good goal sneak.
26. David Myers - Hard working on baller who can play down back. Is dangerous rebounding the ball, and his disposal on the left is superb.
27. Marlan Motlop - Has had injuries, and never hit full stride till the under 18 champs. Wing / HFF. When inside 50 his finishing is top rate.
28. Robbie Tarrant - Pretty injury prone. Plays CHF and can play down back. Needs more footy under his belt.
29. Sam Reid - Tall midfielder who can play at either end. Great size and shape for a utility. Struggled in the champs however his start of the year was sensational.
30. Joesph Daye -Left footer who runs and carries the ball off half back. Not big enough to hold a key position however will be a 3rd tall at either end at AFL level.
Others
- Steven Browne
- Jackson Hall
- James Mulligan
- Scott Simpson
- Jay Bowden
- Chris Kangas
- Taylor Walker
- Aaron Cornelius
- James Wundke
- Tom McNamara
- Cameron Stokes
Channel 9 tonight reported tonight that Ben Cousins was admitted to hospital in Los Angeles for substance abuse.
Cousins was meant to be spending his time in LA for drug rehabilitation, however according to Nine was taken to hospital after his female host became worried about him.
Nine said Cousins had been staying in an apartment in the Los Angeles suburb of Hermosa Beach.
Cousins arrived in LA on October 27, while the call was made on the Wednesday at 5:13am local time.
The woman allegedly told the emergency operator a 29 male man on cocaine ``was not acting right but was breathing and conscious'', according to the official ambulance call sheet.
She also stated that the same man had been on cocaine for the last 5 days.
According to the lady the male was not acting violent, instead he was just scared.
The man was then transported to the Little Company of Mary Hospital via ambulance, according to Nine.
Nine also said that the hospital confirmed that Cousins was a patient.
He then checked out of the hospital two days later before re admitting himself into the rehabilitation clinic he was meant to be in a week ealier.
The allegations come after recent claims that Cousins had gone walk about in LA.
Cousins returned to Australia earlier in the week, however his whereabouts is currently unknown.
Geelong All-Australian center half back, Matthew Egan has re-injured his foot which will see him resume full preseason training in another month.
The set back means that a new rehabilitation plan will need to be mapped out for the young defender.
He will also need to wear a protective boot for at least two weeks.
''It was a bit sore and it didn't really improve so he saw a specialist and they said to keep the foot in the boot and resume non weight-bearing (activities),'' club doctor Chris Bradshaw told the Geelong Advertiser.
''It will set him back a few weeks, but it's not too bad really.
''In the next few days I'll sit down with him and work through his re-hab.''
Highlighting that the incident was not to major, Bradshaw also believed Egan may have struggled to make it back for the first preseason training session on November 21.
Egan broke the navicular bone in his right foot in the final home and away game of the season against Brisbane at the Gabba, putting his finals preparation into chaos.
Screws were placed into Egans foot in an attempt to get him right for the Grand Final, meaning an aggressive recovery strategy was used.
The 24-year-old was ruled out early in the week before the grand final win over Port Adelaide.
Joining Egan on the sidelines for the start of preseason are key cats Paul Chapman and Brad Ottens who both had groin surgery earlier in the week.
Chapman struggled through 2007 with groin complaints, while Ottens has had groin problems his whole career.
Rising Star Joel Selwood had compartment release on his knee, while Kane Tenace had a knee arthroscope.
AFL, the game we love is diminishing. Slowly the game has been driven away from the fans and into the hands of the corporate community. The proposed move of the Kangaroos to the Gold Coast is the best example of this.
Within the next 30 days the Kangaroos will have to make the decision to leave its culture and homeland and move into foreign territory to start fresh. Is all this pain and heartache for the supporters worth just a few hundred thousand dollars into the AFLs pockets?
Andrew Demetriou should be sticking up for the Kangaroos and not against them; I mean he did play over 100 games for them as a player.
Maybe he has forgotten that he wouldnt have become CEO of the biggest sport organisation in Australia if he hadnt played for them.
The position that faces the Kangaroos board is a tough one. Do they move to the Gold Coast and insure longevity in the AFL, or do they stay in Melbourne and do it alone without the help of the AFL?
If Andrew continues with his plan to grant a new license for a 17th club, the Kangaroos will be in serious trouble financially.
Its now up to not only up to the supporters of the Kangaroos, but all supporters in Victoria to stand up for whats right. The AFL needs to know that the fans care about their club, and not money.
After all whats stopping Andrew picking up the next club and moving it to Tasmania or Sydney?
The AFL may run the league but the fans control it. Its up to us to keep this football club alive, so put your money where your mouth is and buy a membership. I know I will and Im not even a Kangaroos supporter.
Its now or never to show the AFL who really runs this league.
TonyK
Tash Jayasinghe
Cibbuano
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