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AFL Central - October 2009

Polak among nine cut by Tigers

October 30th 2009 03:53
RICHMOND has cut nine players from its list including utility Graham Polak.

Polak, who suffered serious head injuries when he was hit by a tram in July 2008, fought back to play the last two games of this season.

Tigers general manager of football Craig Cameron said the club would explore the possibility of recruiting Polak back as a mature-age rookie.

"We will investigate the opportunity of offering Graham Polak a position on our rookie list through the 2009 Rookie Draft, but obviously this will not be confirmed until after the draft has taken place," Cameron said.


Along with Polak, Nathan Brown, Mark Coughlan, Kayne Pettifer, Adam Pattison, Cleve Hughes, Jarrad Oakley-Nicholls, Dean Putt and Jarrod Silvester were also shown the door.

Joel Bowden and Kane Johnson have retired while Andrew Raines and Jay Schulz were traded to Brisbane and Port Adelaide respectively.

Meanwhile, small forward Robin Nahas has been promoted to Richmond's senior list.

The Tigers have picks three, 19, 35, 44, 51, 67, 72 and 83 in next month's national draft.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Richmond Tigers
   


AFL defends GF rematch scheduling

October 30th 2009 03:27
THE AFL has defended the scheduling of just one grand final rematch between Geelong and St Kilda in 2010.

The grand finalists of 2006, '07 and '08 have clashed in the opening round of the following year but next season the Cats and Saints won't face each other until round 13.

AFL chief operating officer Gillon McLachlan said the league elected not to open the season with the blockbuster because this year's round one clash between 2008 grand finalists Hawthorn and Geelong didn't receive the attention it warranted.

"There was discussion about playing that in the opening round like Hawthorn and Geelong did last year," McLachlan said.


"(But) ultimately the Hawthorn and Geelong game got lost in the build-up ... to the start of the season ... it didn't rate and didn't attend any greater than we think those two teams should've done ordinarily."

McLachlan also said the decision to stage the match in the second week of the split round was aimed at building anticipation for the encounter.

"By playing it in round 13, a stand-alone game, we hope that will draw a lot of anticipation in these two standout teams, there will be a focus towards that game," he said.

"We believe when you've got two teams that are exceptional as those two teams St Kilda and Geelong were last year, by putting it in Round 13, hopefully, and there's some risk in this, they're travelling well."

"But we actually will get four or five (or) six weeks build-up potentially to that game and we really can showcase our game obviously to all our existing supporters in the southern markets but in the north as well (and) it's about creating an event around that game."







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2010 AFL Draw

October 30th 2009 01:52
ROUND ONE (All times local)

Thursday, March 25

Richmond v Carlton at the MCG, 7:10 pm

Friday, March 26

Geelong v Essendon at the MCG, 7:40 pm

Saturday, March 27

Melbourne v Hawthorn at the MCG, 2:10 pm

Sydney v St Kilda at ANZ Stadium, 7:10 pm

Brisbane v West Coast at the Gabba, 7:10 pm

Sunday, March 28

Port Adelaide v North Melbourne at AAMI Stadium, 12:40 pm

Western Bulldogs v Collingwood at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

Fremantle v Adelaide at Subiaco Oval, 5:10 pm

ROUND TWO

Thursday, April 1

Brisbane v Carlton at the Gabba, 7:40 pm

Saturday, April 3

Collingwood v Melbourne at the MCG, 2:10 pm

St Kilda v North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium, 7:10 pm

West Coast v Port Adelaide at Subiaco Oval, 5:40 pm

Sunday, April 4

Adelaide v Sydney at AAMI Stadium, 12:40 pm

Essendon v Fremantle at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

Richmond v Western Bulldogs at the MCG, 4:40 pm

Monday, April 5

Hawthorn v Geelong at the MCG, 2:10 pm

ROUND THREE

Friday, April 9

St Kilda vs. Collingwood at Etihad Stadium, 7:40 pm

Saturday, April 10

North Melbourne v West Coast at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

Sydney v Richmond at the SCG, 2:10 pm

Carlton v Essendon at the MCG, 7:10 pm

Port Adelaide v Brisbane at AAMI Stadium, 7:10 pm

Sunday, April 11

Melbourne v Adelaide at the MCG, 1:10 pm

Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

Fremantle v Geelong at Subiaco Oval, 2:40 pm

ROUND FOUR

Friday, April 16

West Coast v Essendon at Subiaco Oval, 6:40 pm

Saturday, April 17

North Melbourne v Sydney at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

Adelaide v Carlton at AAMI Stadium, 2:40 pm

Collingwood v Hawthorn at the MCG, 7:10 pm

Brisbane v Western Bulldogs at the Gabba, 7:10 pm

Sunday, April 18

Richmond vs Melbourne at the MCG, 1:10 pm

Geelong v Port Adelaide at Skilled Stadium, 2:10 pm

St Kilda v Fremantle at Etihad Stadium, 4:40 pm

ROUND FIVE

Friday, April 23

Western Bulldogs v Adelaide at Etihad Stadium, 7:40 pm

Saturday, April 24

Sydney v West Coast at the SCG, 2:10 pm

Melbourne v Brisbane Lions at the MCG, 7:10 pm

Port Adelaide v St Kilda at AAMI Stadium, 7:10 pm

Sunday, April 25

Collingwood v Essendon at the MCG, 2:40 pm

Hawthorn v North Melbourne at Aurora Stadium, 5:40 pm

Fremantle v Richmond at Subiaco Oval, 6:40 pm

Monday, April 26

Carlton v Geelong at the MCG, 2:10 pm

ROUND SIX

Friday, April 30

Western Bulldogs v St Kilda at Etihad Stadium, 7:40 pm

Saturday, May 1

North Melbourne v Melbourne at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

Adelaide v Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium, 2:40 pm

Essendon v Hawthorn at the MCG, 7:10 pm

Sydney v Brisbane Lions at the SCG, 7:10 pm

Sunday, May 2

Geelong v Richmond Skilled Stadium, 1:10 pm

Carlton v Collingwood at the MCG, 2:10 pm

West Coast v Fremantle at Subiaco Oval, 2:40 pm

ROUND SEVEN

Friday, May 7

Melbourne v Western Bulldogs at the MCG, 7:40 pm

Saturday, May 8

Essendon v Port Adelaide at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

West Coast v Hawthorn at Subiaco Oval, 1:10 pm

Collingwood v North Melbourne at the MCG, 7:10 pm

Brisbane v Fremantle at the Gabba, 7:10 pm

Sunday, May 9

Geelong v Sydney at Skilled Stadium, 1:10 pm

Adelaide v Richmond at AAMI Stadium, 4:10 pm

Monday, May 10

St Kilda vs Carlton at Etihad Stadium, 7:20 pm

ROUND EIGHT

Friday, May 14

Fremantle v Collingwood at Subiaco Oval, 6:40 pm

Saturday, May 15

Western Bulldogs v Sydney at Manuka Oval, 2:10 pm

Melbourne v West Coast at the MCG, 2:10 pm

Brisbane v Geelong at the Gabba, 7:10 pm

North Melbourne v Adelaide at Etihad Stadium, 7:10 pm

Sunday, May 16

Richmond v Hawthorn at the MCG, 1.10pm

Port Adelaide v Carlton at AAMI Stadium, 2:40 pm

St Kilda v Essendon at Etihad Stadium, 4:40 pm

ROUND NINE

Friday, May 21

Collingwood v Geelong Cats at the MCG, 7:40 pm

Saturday, May 22 VENUE

North Melbourne v Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

Sydney v Fremantle at the SCG, 2:10 pm

Essendon vs. Richmond at the MCG, 7:30 pm

Melbourne v Port Adelaide at TIO Stadium, 7:10 pm

Sunday, May 23

Adelaide v Brisbane at AAMI Stadium, 12:40 pm

Carlton v Hawthorn at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

West Coast v St Kilda at Subiaco Oval, 2:40 pm

ROUND TEN

Friday, May 28

Essendon v Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium, 7:40 pm

Saturday, May 29

Geelong v Melbourne at Skilled Stadium, 2:10 pm

Port Adelaide v Richmond at AAMI Stadium, 2:40 pm

Brisbane v Collingwood at the Gabba, 7:10 pm

St Kilda v Adelaide at Etihad Stadium, 7:10 pm

Sunday, May 30

Hawthorn v Sydney at the MCG, 1:10 pm

Carlton v West Coast at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

Fremantle v North Melbourne at Subiaco Oval, 2:40 pm

ROUND ELEVEN

Friday, June 4

Richmond v St Kilda at Etihad Stadium, 7:40 pm

Saturday, June 5

Carlton v Melbourne at the MCG, 2:10 pm

Adelaide v Fremantle at AAMI Stadium, 2:40 pm

North Melbourne v Brisbane at Etihad Stadium, 7:10 pm

West Coast v Geelong at Subiaco Oval, 5:40 pm

Sunday, June 6

Sydney v Essendon at the SCG, 1:10 pm

Hawthorn v Port Adelaide at the MCG, 2:10 pm

Collingwood v Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium, 4:40 pm

ROUND TWELVE

Friday, June 11

North Melbourne v Carlton at Etihad Stadium, 7:40 pm

Saturday, June 12

Hawthorn v Adelaide at Aurora Stadium, 2:10 pm

Essendon v Geelong at Etihad Stadium, 7:10 pm

Port Adelaide v Sydney at AAMI Stadium, 7:10 pm

Sunday, June 13

Richmond v West Coast at the MCG, 1.10pm

Western Bulldogs v Brisbane at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

Fremantle v St Kilda at Subiaco Oval, 2:40 pm

Monday, June 14

Melbourne v Collingwood at the MCG, 2:10 pm

ROUND THIRTEEN

Friday, June 18

Hawthorn v Essendon at the MCG, 7:40 pm

Saturday, June 19

Carlton v Fremantle at Etihad Stadium, 7:10 pm

Brisbane v Richmond at the Gabba, 7:10 pm

Sunday, June 20

North Melbourne v Port Adelaide at Etihad Stadium, 1:10 pm

West Coast v Western Bulldogs at Subiaco Oval, 2:40 pm

Friday, June 25

St Kilda v Geelong at the MCG, 7:40 pm

Saturday, June 26

Sydney v Collingwood at ANZ Stadium, 7:10 pm

Sunday, June 27

Adelaide v Melbourne at AAMI Stadium, 2:40 pm

ROUND FOURTEEN

Thursday, July 1

Carlton v Brisbane at Etihad Stadium, 7:10 pm

Friday, July 2

Hawthorn v Western Bulldogs at the MCG, 7:40 pm

Saturday, July 3

Fremantle v Port Adelaide at Subiaco Oval, 1:10 pm

Collingwood v West Coast at Etihad Stadium, 7:10 pm

Adelaide v Essendon at AAMI Stadium, 7:10 pm

Sunday, July 4

Geelong v North Melbourne at Skilled Stadium, 1:10 pm

Richmond v Sydney at the MCG, 2:10 pm

St Kilda v Melbourne at Etihad Stadium, 4:40 pm

ROUND FIFTEEN

Friday, July 9

Port Adelaide v Collingwood at AAMI Stadium, 8:10 pm

Saturday, July 10

Geelong v Hawthorn at the MCG, 2:10 pm

West Coast v Adelaide at Subiaco Oval, 1:10 pm

Brisbane v St Kilda at the Gabba, 7:10 pm

Richmond v Fremantle at Etihad Stadium, 7:10 pm

Sunday, July 11

Sydney v North Melbourne at the SCG, 1:10 pm

Melbourne v Essendon at the MCG, 2:10 pm

Carlton v Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium, 4:40 pm

ROUND SIXTEEN

Friday, July 16

Adelaide v Geelong at AAMI Stadium, 8:10 pm

Saturday, Jul 17

Collingwood v St Kilda at the MCG, 2:10 pm

Hawthorn v Brisbane at Aurora Stadium, 2:10 pm

Essendon v West Coast at Etihad Stadium, 7:10 pm

Western Bulldogs v Port Adelaide at TIO Stadium, 7:10 pm

Sunday, July 18

Carlton v Sydney at Etihad Stadium, 1:10 pm

Richmond v North Melbourne at the MCG, 2:10 pm

Fremantle v Melbourne at Subiaco Oval, 2:40 pm

ROUND SEVENTEEN

Friday, July 23

St Kilda v Hawthorn at Etihad Stadium, 7:40 pm

Saturday, July 24

Collingwood v Richmond at the MCG, 2:10 pm

Geelong v Brisbane Lions at Skilled Stadium, 2:10 pm

North Melbourne v Essendon at Etihad Stadium, 7:10 pm

West Coast v Carlton at Subiaco Oval, 5:40 pm

Sunday, July 25

Western Bulldogs v Fremantle ag Etihad Stadium, 1:10 pm

Melbourne v Sydney at the MCG, 2:10 pm

Port Adelaide v Adelaide at AAMI Stadium, 4:10 pm

ROUND EIGHTEEEN

Friday, July 30

Essendon v St Kilda at Etihad Stadium, 7:40 pm

Saturday, July 31

Collingwood v Carlton at the MCG, 2:10 pm

Port Adelaide v Hawthorn at AAMI Stadium, 2:40 pm

Sydney v Geelong at ANZ Stadium, 7:10 pm

Brisbane v Melbourne at the Gabba, 7:10 pm

Sunday, August 1

Richmond v Adelaide at the MCG, 1:10 pm

Western Bulldogs v North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

Fremantle v West Coast at Subiaco Oval, 2:40 pm

ROUND NINETEEN

Friday, August 6

Essendon v Carlton at the MCG, 7:40 pm

Saturday, August 7

Sydney v Hawthorn at the SCG, 2:10 pm

North Melbourne v Fremantle at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

Geelong v Collingwood at the MCG, 7:10 pm

West Coast v Brisbane at Subiaco Oval, 5:40 pm

Sunday, August 8

St Kilda v Port Adelaide at Etihad Stadium, 1:10 pm

Melbourne v Richmond at the MCG, 2:10 pm

Adelaide v Western Bulldogs at AAMI Stadium, 4:10 pm

ROUND TWENTY

Friday, August 13

Essendon v Collingwood at the MCG, 7:40 pm

Saturday, August 14

Carlton v Richmond at the MCG, 2:10 pm

Fremantle v Sydney at Subiaco Oval, 1:10 pm

Western Bulldogs v Geelong at Etihad Stadium, 7:10 pm

Port Adelaide v West Coast at AAMI Stadium, 7:10 pm

Sunday, August 15

Brisbane v Adelaide at the Gabba, 1:10 pm

Hawthorn v Melbourne at the MCG, 2:10 pm

North Melbourne v St Kilda at Etihad Stadium, 4:40 pm

ROUND TWENTY-ONE

Friday, August 20

Geelong v Carlton at Etihad Stadium, 7:40 pm

Saturday, August 21

St Kilda v Richmond at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

Hawthorn v Fremantle at Aurora Stadium, 2:10 pm

Collingwood v Adelaide at the MCG, 7:10 pm

Sydney v Western Bulldogs at the SCG, 7:10 pm

Sunday, August 22

Port Adelaide v Melbourne at AAMI Stadium, 12:40 pm

Essendon v Brisbane at Etihad Stadium, 2:10 pm

West Coast v North Melbourne at Subiaco Oval, 2:40 pm

ROUND TWENTY-TWO

Adelaide v St Kilda at AAMI Stadium

Hawthorn v Collingwood at the MCG

Geelong Cats v West Coast Eagles at Skilled Stadium

Richmond v Port Adelaide at Etihad Stadium

Fremantle v Carlton at Subiaco Oval

Melbourne v North Melbourne at the MCG

Brisbane Lions v Sydney Swans at the Gabba

Western Bulldogs v Essendon at Etihad Stadium

Dates and times for the round 22 fixture will be finalised four to six weeks beforehand with matches involving likely finalists to be taken into account
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Stevens forced to retire

October 29th 2009 08:53
CARLTON midfielder Nick Stevens has been forced to retire due to a serious neck injury.

The 29-year-old, who was contracted for another year, was advised by doctors that he should hang up the boots or he would risk further damage to the injury he sustained early in the 2007 season.

"It is very disappointing to have my career end due to injury. Retirement is not something I had been thinking about but I have no option due to the neck injury," Stevens said.

"After consulting with the specialist, the club doctor and the club as well as discussions with my family, I realised the risk in continuing to play football is far too great so the decision was forced on me.

"What makes it even harder is that Carlton is on the verge of a successful era and I would dearly love to be a part of it. While very disappointed, I am thankful that I have been able to play over 200 AFL games and have enjoyed being involved with Carlton and Port Adelaide for over 10 years."

Blues coach Brett Ratten paid tribute to Stevens and said it was a blow to the club to lose a player of his calibre.

"Nick has been a very important player for Carlton in his six years with the club. He has played a vital role in the development of the younger players at the club through his leadership and there has never been a question on his ability to win and use the ball," Ratten said.

"At his peak he has certainly been one of the elite midfielders in the AFL. He has been runner-up in the John Nicholls Medal on two occasions and was also runner-up and third in the Port Adelaide Best and Fairest Award before joining Carlton. We will certainly miss his talent and importantly his experience."

Stevens played 104 games for the Blues after crossing over from Port Adelaide where he managed 127 appearances after making his AFL debut in 1998.

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Carlton Blues
   


Gabba to host next five Easter Thursday matches

October 29th 2009 08:15
THE AFL and the Queensland government have struck a deal that will see the Gabba host the next five Easter Thursday blockbuster matches.

Brisbane will kick off the arrangement with a clash against Carlton in round two next year which will pit the Lions' prized recruit Brendan Fevola against his old club.

Queensland sports minister Phil Reeves said the agreement was a 'tremendous coup' for football in the state.

"This guarantees a big-drawing early match at the Gabba every season for the next five years, with likes of Collingwood, Carlton, Essendon or the Geelong Cats to be among the teams who are likely to visit the Gabba to take on the Lions," Reeves said.

"This is part of an agreement negotiated to bring a 17th team to the AFL competition, a second team to Queensland on the Gold Coast and the redevelopment of Gold Coast Stadium in partnership with the Federal Government, the Gold Coast City Council and the AFL."

"Having this fixture locked in for the next five years will showcase the Gabba and the Lions to a national audience of well over one million fans."

"This is a great result for Queensland sports fans and these blockbuster matches around Easter will be a highlight on the sporting calendar."

AFL chief operating officer Gillon McLachlan said the league had a good relationship with the Queensland government.

"AFL football has been able to make great strides in Queensland with the introduction of a new 17th team on the Gold Coast and the redevelopment of the Gabba thanks to the outstanding support of the State Government for our game," McLachlan said.

"The partnership with the Queensland Government, the Federal Government and the Gold Coast City Council will also deliver the redeveloped Gold Coast Stadium. "

"When the Gold Coast joins the senior AFL competition in 2011, AFL matches will be played in Queensland every week during our season."

McLachlan also said the deal ensured Brisbane wouldn't be overshadowed by the Gold Coast's entry into the competition

"It is important to ensure the focus is not lost on the other Queensland success story – the Brisbane Lions. The work of the Queensland Government together with the Lions has ensured the Gabba will be the focus of football fans throughout Australia in the early part of each of our next five seasons."

The draw for the 2010 Toyota AFL premiership season will be announced on Friday.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Saints axe Maguire

October 29th 2009 07:26
ST KILDA has axed luckless defender Matt Maguire.

Taken with pick 21 in the 2001 national draft, Maguire was the Saints' first choice centre-half-back during the 2004 and 2005 seasons and was a member of the 2004 pre-season premiership team.

But he was never the same player after suffering a broken leg against West Coast at Etihad Stadium in round 18, 2006.

The 25-year-old managed just 14 appearances over the next three seasons - largely due stress fractures in his foot - and was stuck on 99 games throughout 2009.

Maguire's axing comes following the delisting of Irishman Colm Begley and Elijay Connors, the retirements of Jarryd Allen and Max Hudghton and the offloading of Xavier Clarke to Brisbane.

Meanwhile, Zac Dawson has been rewarded for his stellar first year with St Kilda with promotion to the Saints' senior list.

Dawson, who was delisted by Hawthorn at the end of 2008, was a key part of St Kilda's impressive defensive unit this season, playing 23 matches including the grand final.

Luke Miles has also been elevated off the club's rookie list.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, St Kilda Saints
   


Johnson announces retirement

October 29th 2009 06:29
GEELONG defender David Johnson has announced his retirement from AFL football.

The 28-year-old, who played 79 games for the Cats after being taken with pick 81 in the 2001 national draft, said he had exceeded his own expectations.

"When I started out my goal was to just play one game," Johnson said.

"To have been able to play at Geelong for eight years, to play with my best mates and in a great team has exceeded what I could ever have hoped for. The coaches have been great, the club has been outstanding and I finish with no regrets."

While he didn't feature in the Cats' grand final wins in 2007 and 2009, he was a member of two VFL premiership sides and played in Geelong's NAB Cup premiership side in 2006.

Johnson plans to pursue an off-field role in football.

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Geelong Cats
   


Nicoski set to stay with Eagles

October 28th 2009 13:50
WEST COAST defender Mark Nicoski is on the verge of signing a new two-year deal with the Eagles.

Nicoski has agreed to terms and is expected to put pen to paper very soon.

The 25-year-old was elevated from West Coast's rookie list in 2004 and has played 81 games.

The imminent re-signing of Nicoski means young midfielder Jamie McNamara, who has managed 21 appearances since making his AFL debut in 2007, will be given the chop.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, West Coast Eagles
   


Hawks delist trio

October 28th 2009 13:02
HAWTHORN has delisted young forward Mitch Thorp and rookies Haydn Kiel and Tim Walsh.

Thorp, who had a year remaining on his contract, was taken ahead of Geelong star Joel Selwood with pick six in the 2006 national draft.

The 20-year-old was touted as a potential star but a poor run with injuries meant he only played two games for the Hawks.

He requested to be traded to another club during trade week but no deal was forthcoming.

Meanwhile, rookie Matthew Suckling has been elevated to Hawthorn's senior list.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Hawthorn Hawks
   


2010 NAB Cup draw

October 27th 2009 01:44
NAB Cup Round One (All times local)

Friday February 12
West Coast v Essendon at Subiaco Oval, 5:40pm

Saturday February 13
Adelaide v Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium, 4:40pm
Hawthorn v Richmond at Aurora Stadium, 7:40pm

Sunday Feburary 14
Western Bulldogs v Brisbane at Manuka Oval, 4:40pm

Friday February 19
St Kilda v Collingwood at Etihad Stadium, 7:40pm

Saturday February 20
Sydney v Carlton at Blacktown Olympic Park, 7:40pm

Sunday February 21
Geelong v North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium, 4:40pm
Fremantle v Melbourne at Subiaco Oval, 5:40pm.

Quarter-finals: Thursday February 25 - Sunday February 28

Semi-finals: Friday March 5 - Saturday March 6

Grand Final: Saturday March 13

A NAB Challenge game will be staged in the Victorian country town of Yea with all proceeds from the match going to those in the area that were affected by February's bushfires. The match will be played between the losers of the Hawthorn-Richmond and Geelong-North Melbourne round one matches.




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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Roos confident Bradshaw will join Swans

October 26th 2009 08:59
SYDNEY coach Paul Roos is confident former Brisbane full forward Daniel Bradshaw will join the Swans via the pre-season draft.

The 30-year-old, who rejected a two-year contract from the Lions after being offered up in a trade for spearhead Brendan Fevola during trade week, nominated Sydney over Carlton as his preferred destination.

Melbourne, Richmond, Fremantle and North Melbourne have picks before the Swans in December's pre-season draft but Roos expects Bradshaw to be available at their first pick.

"He's got four kids, he carries a salary as he should and you've got to have room in your salary cap. Obviously he's 30 years old as well and some clubs like Melbourne and Richmond are going down different paths," Roos said.

"We expect him to get to pick five but obviously there are no guarantees."

Roos said Bradshaw - who kicked a club record 496 goals for Brisbane - would be a perfect addition to Sydney's forward line which no longer features Barry Hall and Michael O'Loughlin.

"The loss of Hally means we're trying to replace him with Adam (Goodes) in that similar role at centre half-forward, but we've got no one to replace Mick," he said.

"But Bradshaw is just the perfect player who can play out of full-forward with Jesse White next to him, so being able to emulate what Mick's been able to do and kick goals and help Jesse and tackle and set up things."

"In terms of the number of goals, who knows? But in terms of the amount of experience, we know he can be a quality player and person who can provide some experience that we've lost."



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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Sydney Swans
   


Hocking joins Port

October 22nd 2009 05:21
FORMER Geelong champion Garry Hocking has joined Port Adelaide's coaching panel.

The 41-year-old, who was named the 2009 coach of the year in the TAC Cup competition for his work with the Geelong Falcons, will work alongside Darren Trevena in player development at the Power.

Hocking has coached the Falcons for the past four years and has seen 15 of his players drafted to AFL lists during that period.

Port football operations manager Peter Rohde said Hocking's record of developing young players was 'exceptional'.

"We anticipate he will be very good for our younger players, which is certainly where we are putting our focus," Rohde said.

"The Falcons staff and players speak very highly of Garry, including Travis Boak, who Garry coached in 2006."

"Garry is also a very experienced football person who along with Dean Laidley will really add to our coaching group."

Hocking played 274 games for the Cats between 1987 and 2001, captained the club, was a four-time club best-and-fairest winner and earnt All-Australian honours on four occasions.

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Port Adelaide Power
   


Begley among five delistings at Saints

October 22nd 2009 03:02
IRISHMAN Colm Begley is among five delistings announced by St Kilda on Thursday.

Nineteen-year-old midfielder Eljay Connors and rookies Khan Haretuku, Ross Tungatalum and Sam McGarry were also shown the door.

Begley was recruited to the Saints with pick 83 in last year's national draft after being delisted by Brisbane where he played 29 games between 2006 and 2008.

The 23-year-old managed to feature in just one game for St Kilda - the round 19 win over Hawthorn in Launceston.

Saints coach Ross Lyon said the decision for Begley not to be retained on the club's list was 'mutual'.

"Colm has expressed an interest to return to Ireland to pursue additional interests and we appreciate his efforts at the club during the past 12 months," Lyon said.

Connors was selected with pick 70 in the 2007 national draft but failed to play an AFL game.

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, St Kilda Saints
   


Harley hangs up boots

October 22nd 2009 02:39
TWO-TIME Geelong premiership captain Tom Harley has announced his retirement from AFL football.

The 31-year-old said his battle-weary could no longer meet the demands of the modern game.

"I physically can't meet the requirements to play, to see out a season, a full season in the AFL," Harley said.

"Over the journey I think I've had five knee operations and when I first came (to Geelong) I was not in the best physical shape and to be able to hang on for 11 years and have the career that I've had is something that I'm super proud of."

Harley, who got married to Sydney-based publisher Felicity Percival two weeks ago, has been linked to a job at the new western Sydney team which is scheduled to enter the AFL in 2012 but he said he had no concrete plans at this stage.

"It's been a big couple of weeks with the football season winding up and my marriage and I just want to sit back and smell the roses for a bit," he said.

"There are certainly some opportunities and I would love to stay involved in footy in some capacity."

Despite falling two games short of his 200th game after managing just 14 appearances in 2009, Harley said he was leaving the game with no regrets.

"That's my lot, I had my chance to play 200 games this season and didn't get there," Harley said.

"It's game, set and match for me with the Geelong footy club as a player and I couldn't leave more content with my career at the club, where the club is right now and where the club's going in the future."

Originally drafted by Port Adelaide, Harley was traded to Geelong at the end of the 1998 season after just one game for the Power.

Harley took over as captain after the tumultous 2006 season and the club never looked back, winning 49 of 56 games under his captaincy and playing in three grand finals.

The Cats are yet to name Harley's replacement but Cameron Ling is believed to be the favourite to be named captain.

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Davey named Demons' best

October 22nd 2009 01:55
MELBOURNE speedster Aaron Davey was named as the Demons' best-and-fairest on Wednesday night.

Davey, who signed a new four-deal with Melbourne two weeks ago, polled 82 votes to win his first Keith 'Bluey' Truscott Memorial Trophy.

The classy 26-year-old finished ahead of Brent Moloney (69) and Cameron Bruce (56).

Forward Matthew Bate was fourth with 47 votes while Nathan Jones, Colin Sylvia and Matthew Warnock polled 44 votes each to finish equal fifth.

Davey enjoyed his best season in 2009, playing all 22 games and recording a career-high
total disposals (504) and tackles (90).

2009 Keith 'Bluey' Truscott Memorial Trophy Top 10
1 - Aaron Davey (82)
2 - Brent Moloney (69)
3 - Cameron Bruce (56)
4 - Matthew Bate (47)
5 - Nathan Jones (44)
5 - Colin Sylvia (44)
5 - Matthew Warnock (44)
8 - James Frawley (43)
9 - James McDonald (42)
9 - Cale Morton (42)
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Stynes upbeat on cancer battle

October 22nd 2009 01:39
MELBOURNE president Jim Stynes has declared at the club's best-and-fairest count at Crown Casino on Wednesday night that he hopes to be cancer-free by the end of next month.

Stynes has been undergoing radiation treatment over the past two weeks in a bid to get rid of three tumours in his brain.

The inspirational 43-year-old was upbeat as he updated more than 800 Demons faithful on his battle against cancer.

"Obviously, it's hard not to notice the nude nut," Stynes said.

"I was actually hoping to come with a number two (haircut) but it sort of got ahead of me yesterday. It started to fall out."

"When my daughter (Matisse) got to see it there this morning she got a bit of a shock to say the least. She's coping, she had a good laugh."

"My four-year-old boy (Tiernan) has got a number two . He thought it was very cool. If he thinks it's cool, I'm very happy with that."

Stynes, who said he would have a four-week break from radiation therapy, admitted the first round of treatment had affected him a bit.

"At the end of November I have to do one more session which should, please God, finish it off, get rid of the tumours in the brain," he said.

"I'm feeling a lot better since Monday because when you go through it you feel nauseous."

"As my poor wife (Samantha) has had to deal with, you feel grumpy and you're not as much fun to be around, so I'm starting to pep up again."

Despite his personal battle, Stynes was quick to turn the attention back onto the Melbourne Football Club.

The Demons may have won back-to-back wooden spoons but Stynes believes the future is bright.

"I see it as the dawning of a new era. We have been through 15 months of saving and really stabilising our club," he said.

"We have restructured our club, and we've bottomed out as a team, and between last year and this year we have the opportunity through the draft to rebuild."

"Obviously, we just need a little bit of patience from everyone."

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Port signs basketballer

October 21st 2009 11:04
PORT ADELAIDE has signed former US College basketballer Daniel Bass on a rookie contract.

Bass was born and raised in Melbourne but has spent the past four years playing basketball for Metro State University in Denver, Colorado.

The fact that the 22-year-old had not been registered with any football league for more than three years meant he could be selected by the Power without going through the draft system.

Despite having a limited football background, the 198cm, 100kg athlete impressed in a mid-season try-out with the club.

Bass is the second former basketballer the club has taken a punt on - 2004 premiership ruckman Dean Brogan - who won an NBL Championship with the Adelaide 36ers in 1998 - was recruited to Alberton with pick 26 in the 1999 rookie draft before being promoted to the club's senior list in 2001.

Power football operations manager Peter Rohde said Bass was 'familiar with footy' but the club didn't expect too much from him early on.

“We see Daniel as a medium-term ruck project for us - we certainly don’t have high expectations for the coming season, but we think it could be a two-to-three year development process instead of a four-to-five year one," Rohde said.

Bass will commence training with the Port Adelaide's second to four year players on Monday.


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Dogs delist five

October 21st 2009 06:00
THE Western Bulldogs have delisted two senior players and three rookie-listed players.

Malcolm Lynch and Guy O'Keefe have been given the chop along with rookies John Shaw, Henry White and Chris Ogle.

Taken with pick 66 in the 2006 national draft, Lynch managed just two appearances for the Bulldogs.

O’Keefe was selected with pick 63 in the 2007 national draft but failed to play an AFL game.

Dogs football operations manager James Fantasia said Lynch and O'Keefe had been told that they may re-drafted by the club in the national draft or rookie draft.

The Bulldogs axed Paul O'Shea, Cameron Wight and Wayde Skipper prior to trade week.

Meanwhile, midfielder Jamason Daniel is the only rookie that has been retained for another year while tagger Liam Picken and tall defender James Mulligan have been elevated to the club's senior list.

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GCFC secures Swallow

October 21st 2009 02:24
THE Gold Coast Football Club has secured classy 16-year-old David Swallow 12 months ahead of the 2010 national draft.

Gold Coast has the first three picks in next year's national draft and will use one of those picks on Swallow.

Swallow - the younger brother of North Melbourne's Andrew - will join the GCFC in November and train under the club's development program.

The hard-running defender-midfielder will play for the Gold Coast's VFL team next year and be involved in the club’s development program as it prepares to enter the AFL in 2011.

Senior coach Guy McKenna said joining the Gold Coast a year ahead of schedule would greatly benefit Swallow.

"David will be able to join our program and have the benefits of an extra 12 months conditioning and playing with his new team before we enter the AFL in 2011," McKenna said.

"I am lucky to have two years to get ready for my AFL coaching debut and I think David and his family have also recognised the benefits he will receive by entering our program a year early."

McKenna also said the club would not be bringing any other potential 2010 draftees into the system early.

Swallow was a joint winner of the 2009 Larke Medal for the best-and-fairest player at the NAB AFL Under-18 Championship and an All Australian.


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Archer to return to North

October 21st 2009 01:48
FORMER North Melbourne dual premiership player Glenn Archer will return to the club as a part-time assistant coach.

The Shinbonber of the Century, who retired two years ago after a stellar 311-game career, will work closely with former teammate Brett Allison with the backline their main priority.

Kangaroos football operations manager Donald McDonald said the club was 'thrilled' that Archer was coming back to Arden St.

"If a little bit of Glen Archer can be instilled into members of our playing list the rewards will be plentiful for this club," McDonald said.

Meanwhile, the Roos have also appointed Jon Haines as their player development manager.

Haines joins the club after being the high performance manager for the West Australian Football Commission.

He also ran the state’s National 18's program in 2009 while overseeing the WA talent pathway and coach education program.

McDonald said Haines would be a vital part of the club's off-field team.

"With around 30 of our players only having been at the club for three years or less, our player development structure needs to be best practice and Jon Haines will be at the forefront of this vital program," he said.

"Jon’s skill set will form an integral role in Brad Scott's blueprint for success as he will be responsible for establishing a development academy for our first, second and third year players."

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Schimdt calls it quits

October 20th 2009 15:14
SYDNEY midfielder Tim Schmidt has retired from AFL football at the tender age of 23 to pursue a career in real estate.

Schmidt was taken with pick 29 in the 2003 national draft and played 17 games for the Swans after making his AFL debut in 2006.

Sydney chief executive Andrew Ireland said the club was 'supportive' of Schmidt's decision.

"On behalf of all at the club, we thank him for his efforts over the six years he has been with the club and wish him every success in the future," Ireland said.

South-Australian born Schmidt plans to stay in Sydney.
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Tigers appoint Daly

October 20th 2009 07:51
RICHMOND has appointed Danny Daly as its forward coach for the 2010 season.

Daly has spent the past six seasons at North Melbourne working in a variety of full-time roles including player welfare and development manager, forward scout and opposition coach.

He played football with Balwyn in the Southern Football League but his career was cut short by knee and shoulder injuries.

Daly then became an assistant coach at Balwyn before joining Collingwood as a part-time forward scout.

When Dean Laidley, who had been an assistant coach at the Magpies, took over as the Kangaroos' head coach in 2003 he asked Daly to join him.

Although he never played at AFL level, Daly is highly respected for his knowledge of players' strengths and weaknesses.

Daly is the final addition to Richmond's coaching panel which consists of Damien Hardwick (senior coach), Justin Leppitsch (backline), Brendon Lade (ruck-midfield), David Newett (Coburg, development) and Tim Clarke (development).

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Kangaroos axe four

October 20th 2009 06:48
NORTH MELBOURNE has delisted four players including experienced duo Daniel Harris and Sam Power.

Harris managed just six appearances in 2009 for a total of 149 games while Power played 39 games in two seasons with the Kangaroos after 84 matches for the Western Bulldogs between 2002 and 2007.

Matt Riggio and Michael Wundke were the other players shown the door.

Riggio played 10 games for the Roos including one this year while Wundke failed to play an AFL match.

The axings come following the retirements of Adam Simpson and Shannon Watt, the trading of Josh Gibson to Hawthorn and Jesse Smith's decision to walk out on the club to try his luck in the pre-season draft.

Meanwhile, promising small forward Cruize Garlett has been promoted to North's senior list.

Garlett made his AFL debut against Adelaide in round 12 and played five games this year.



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Draft concessions for western Sydney announced

October 20th 2009 04:36
THE AFL has announced a raft of draft concessions for the fledgling western Sydney club on Tuesday.

Greater Western Sydney will have the first pick in each round of the 2011 national draft along with selections 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11 and 15.

Unlike GC17, Team GWS will also have access to four 17-year-olds who must be traded to rival clubs, zoned access to players from NSW/ACT and the Northern Territory and the ability to sign up to 16 uncontracted players over two years.

The other concessions are; the right to select up to 12 17-year-olds at the end of 2010 with the option to relocate to Sydney for the 2011 season, the first eight picks in the 2010 rookie draft, the ability to pre-list 10 players who had previously nominated for the AFL draft or were previously listed with an AFL club and the right to have an expanded list and increased salary cap.

AFL legal and business affairs manager Andrew Dillon said that granting access to four 17-year-olds who must be traded at the end of the 2011 and 2012 seasons would help western Sydney secure the services of established players.

"It's to make it more attractive for the current AFL clubs potentially to allow one of their players to leave," Dillon said.

"It's just to give (GWS) something to trade with given that they won't have a list of players."

"Because (the player) has to be traded ... it gives them some flexibility but also to guide their hand and make it attractive for (rival) AFL clubs to lose a player as well."

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou said the league was aware that GWS wouldn't be an overnight success.

"The AFL Commission understands that establishing a team in Greater Western Sydney is a generational decision. If a licence is granted, its success won’t be truly judged for 20-30 years but we need to ensure Team GWS - like the Gold Coast Football Club - is given every opportunity to develop into a community club that is strong on and off the field," Demetriou said.

"The aim was also to have list development rules that impacted on as few national drafts as possible, for the national draft to return to its pure form."

"Also, the AFL Commission had to be mindful that the concessions would provide the new team with an opportunity to build medium to long-term on-field success. When previous entry rules have been too strict, or poor decisions have been made, the AFL Commission has had to return to a number of start-up clubs with additional draft concessions."

Western Sydney will play in the TAC Cup next year and is scheduled to enter the AFL in 2012.


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Former Manly CEO joins Team GWS

October 20th 2009 02:07
FORMER Manly chief executive officer Grant Mayer has joined the proposed western Sydney AFL side - Team GWS - as its commercial sponsorship manager.

Mayer has been a sports administrator for the past 17 years and was in charge of the Sea Eagles' off-field operations during their 2008 NRL premiership season.

He was also football operations manager at the Canterbury Bulldogs when they won the premiership in 2004 before being appointed as the inaugural chief executive of English Super League club Catalans Dragons in 2005.

Mayer said he was excited by his new role.

"To be involved in a start up club is an exciting opportunity for me, both professionally and personally," Mayer said.

"It’s not something that many people get the chance to be a part of so I’m really looking forward to the challenge."

"As a local resident of the area for the last 15 years, I understand the challenges ahead and I strongly believe in this campaign."

"This region deserves its own identity and an AFL club in Greater Western Sydney will help deliver that."

AFL NSW/ACT general manager Dale Holmes said Mayer was one of the top sports administrators in Australia.

"He has proven through his experience with establishing the Catalans Dragons and his success with the Bulldogs and the Sea Eagles that he understands how to engage business and community support," Holmes said.

"A core part of our vision has always been that we want this club to be built by local people who live, work and love the Greater West of Sydney and our Community Advisory Group has been instrumental in connecting the campaign and the local community."

"Over the next nine months, the people of Greater Western Sydney will take on an even greater role in shaping the look and feel of this club."
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Saints snare Irishman

October 20th 2009 01:02
ST KILDA has snared talented Irishman Tommy Walsh.

The Saints have signed Walsh, who is regarded as one of Ireland's best Gaelic footballers, as an international rookie for two years.

The 195cm, 95kg forward was a member of the County Kerry line-up that won this year's All Ireland final and scored four points in the final.

The 21-year-old was also named the 2008 GAA Young Player of the Year.

St Kilda football manager Matthew Drain believes Walsh has what it takes to make it in the AFL.

"While he faces hard work to adapt to AFL at the highest level, we are confident that what we have seen of him proves he has enormous talent to become an important player for St Kilda," Drain said.

"Essentially, we see that Tommy Walsh, in addition with Andrew Lovett, has taken place as a first round draft pick, based on his size, ability and credentials."

.

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AFL signs deal with NT government

October 19th 2009 07:30
THE AFL has signed an $8 million deal with the Northern Territory government which will see two matches per season staged at TIO Stadium for at least the next five years.

The Western Bulldogs, Melbourne and Richmond will rotate as the home side for the next three seasons.

The Bulldogs and the Demons will play games in Darwin next season while the Tigers will play their first match in the Top End in 2011.

Port Adelaide will be the away side in both matches next year and they are expected to make the trip north for the duration of the agreement.

The 2013 and 2014 fixtures will be structured to allow new clubs Gold Coast and western Sydney to play at the venue.

As part of the deal, $2 million will be spent on the upgrading of facilities at TIO Stadium and Traegar Park in Alice Springs while Indigenous All-Star matches will be scheduled for Darwin and Alice Springs in 2011 and 2013 respectively.

Traegar Park will also host a NAB Cup match next year.

Northern Territory chief minister Paul Henderson said the deal was a major boost for the region.

"Aussie Rules is the Territory's most popular sport and the Territory Government is proud to have secured more matches for AFL supporters," Henderson said.

"This $8 million deal with the AFL is a strong vote of confidence in our ability to host AFL matches at neutral venues and will bring millions of dollars into our local economy."

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou said the league was 'delighted' with the agreement.

"Over the last decade, the numbers of outstanding young NT players making their way to AFL clubs has continued to climb steadily, following in the footsteps of the likes of Andrew McLeod and Aaron Davey, and these games will continue to inspire young Territorians to chase their dreams," Demetriou said.

The Dogs have played six matches at TIO Stadium since 2004 while the Power has played four games at the venue.

Melbourne and Richmond have not played at the ground before.

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Bradshaw quits Lions

October 16th 2009 07:18
DANIEL Bradshaw has quit the Brisbane Lions.

The Lions' all-time leading goalkicker with 496 goals in 222 games rejected a two-year deal on Friday.

The 30-year-old was put up for trade along with midfielder Michael Rischitelli in a bid to secure the services of controversial forward Brendan Fevola but that deal collapsed.

Brisbane eventually landed Fevola in a trade for young key position prospect Lachlan Henderson and an exchange of draft picks.

It is understood Bradshaw was hurt by the club's willingness to offload him after 14 years of service.

Carlton looms as the front runners to snare the dual premiership player as Fevola's departure has given them plenty of room in the salary cap and there is expected to be further room with midfielder Nick Stevens likely to call it quits due to a chronic neck injury.

Bradshaw will decide on Monday whether to enter next month's national draft or the pre-season draft on December 15
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Port dump quartet

October 16th 2009 05:50
PORT ADELAIDE has delisted two senior players and two rookies.

Nick Lower and Jonathan Giles and rookies Matthew Martin and Jesse Laurie have been cut.

Lower was taken with pick 30 in the 2005 national draft and played 20 games for the Power including five this season.

Giles was recruited from Central District with selection 50 in the 2005 national draft but failed to play a game for the club.

Meanwhile, ruckman Daniel Stewart has been promoted to Port's senior list.

Power football operations manager Peter Rohde said Stewart had earned his chance at AFL level.

"Daniel has come on in leaps and bounds over the course of the season and the reward is this spot on the senior list," Rohde said.

"We see him as a developing key forward and ruck option for us."


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Blues delist seven

October 15th 2009 06:52
CARLTON has delisted seven players, four from the club's primary list and three rookie-listed players.

Jordan Bannister, Adam Bentick, Jake Edwards and Adam Hartlett and rookies Lachlan Hill, Darren Pfeiffer and Luke Stanton have been axed.

Bentick is the most experienced player to be given the chop, having played 68 games for the Blues after being promoted to the senior list in 2004 while Bannister featured in just two senior games this season to finish with 67 matches to his name which includes 14 for Essendon between 2001 and 2003.

Hartlett was taken with pick 25 in the 2004 national draft but had to wait until 2007 to make his AFL debut.

The 23-year-old played 11 games for the club while Edwards managed five senior appearances.

Pfeiffer was the only rookie that played senior football - he made eight appearances in 2008 after being taken in the pre-season draft.

Carlton is expected to make further changes to its list ahead of the AFL's list lodgement deadline of October 31.
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Lions overhaul list

October 15th 2009 04:21
BRISBANE has continued the overhaul of its playing list, delisting seven senior players and five rookies.

Defender Joel MacDonald is the most experienced player shown the door, having played 80 games since 2004 including 22 this year.

The other senior players given the axe were Jason Roe (50 games), Scott Harding (48), Rhan Hooper (48), Scott Clouston (2), Kieran King and Matthew Tyler.

Rookies Daniel Dzufer, Pat Garner, Daniel Murray, Adam Spackman and Joel Tippett were informed that their services are no longer required.

The axings come in the wake of the acquistion of Brent Staker, Amon Buchanan, Andrew Raines, Xavier Clarke and Brendan Fevola during trade week, the offloading of midfielder Brad Dalziell and young key position prospect Lachlan Henderson to West Coast and Carlton respectively and the retirement of dual premiership player Tim Notting.

The Lions have indicated that they will use four picks in next month's national draft.

Meanwhile, Irishman Pearce Hanley has been promoted to the senior list.
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Skipworth calls it quits

October 14th 2009 02:33
ESSENDON utility Hayden Skipworth has announced his retirement from AFL football.

Skipworth played 44 games for Adelaide before being delisted at the end of 2006.

He joined the Bombers' VFL affiliate Bendigo in 2007 but suffered a serious knee injury early in the season.

However, Skipworth bounced back to win Bendigo's best-and-fairest award the following year which prompted the Dons to take him with pick three in the 2008 pre-season draft.

But the 26-year-old said his body was no longer able to cope with the rigours of the modern game.

"Unfortunately my body is struggling to cope with the AFL workload and I wasn't able to play the sort of footy I wanted to play, especially in the second half of the year," Skipworth said.

"I want to thank the Essendon Football Club and its supporters for embracing me after coming from a different club. I have been made to feel welcome and, although it was my first year on the playing list, I have been at Windy Hill for three years and the club has been great.

"It's a great club and thanks to Matthew Knights and the recruitment people for giving me the opportunity. Even though it didn't last as long as I would have liked it was great to get back out there. I also want to thank my family and friends for all their support."

Essendon football operations manager Paul Hamilton paid tribute to Skipworth.

"Hayden had a good start to the year but, physically, he wasn't able to maintain it. He is a great club man and was very well liked and respected by the players and coaches," Hamilton said.

"He played a big role in the development of guys like Tayte Pears and Kyle Reimers by showing them the commitment and dedication required to be a professional footballer."

Skipworth finished with 55 games and 33 goals to his name after making his AFL debut with the Crows in 2001.

Meanwhile, the Bombers have axed John Williams - who played just the one game back in 2008 - and rookie-listed players Rhys Magin, Tom German, Bryce Carroll and Kade Klemke.

Magin managed four appearances for the club last year after briefly being promoted to the senior list late in the season.
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Swans show trio the door

October 13th 2009 08:50
SYDNEY has informed Ryan Brabazon, Matthew Laidlaw and Daniel O'Keefe that their services are no longer required.

Brabazon, who was selected with pick 59 in the 2005 national draft, played just three games for the Swans including two this season.

Taken with selection 51 in the 2005 draft, Laidlaw made only one appearance for the club due to a shocking run with injuries.

O'Keefe was Sydney's first-round pick (number 15 overall) in the 2006 national draft but injuries prevented him from making his AFL debut.



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Demons axe duo

October 13th 2009 08:07
MELBOURNE has axed midfielders Simon Buckley and Shane Valenti.

Buckley featured in just one game in 2009 - the round one clash against North Melbourne before injuries ruined his season.

The 22-year-old, who was taken with pick 53 in the 2005 national draft, made his AFL debut in 2007 and played 21 matches.

Valenti was twice elevated from the rookie list and managed 15 appearances for the Demons including six this season.

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Magpies appoint Watters

October 13th 2009 07:50
COLLINGWOOD has appointed former West Coast, Sydney and Fremantle midfielder Scott Watters as an assistant coach.

Watters, who was also being chased by North Melbourne, will be in charge of the Magpies' backline and work alongside former St Kilda defender Max Hudghton who was named as a part-time defensive coach on Monday.

The 40-year-old guided WAFL club Subiaco to premierships in 2007 and 2008 and coached the WAFL state representative side to wins over Queensland and South Australia in the past two years.

He replaces Blake Caracella who recently left the Pies to take up an assistant coaching role with Geelong.

Recruited from South Fremantle at the end of 1988 by West Coast, Watters played 109 games of AFL football from 1989-96, firstly for the Eagles (1989-‘92; 46 games, including the 1991 grand final), then Sydney (1993, ‘94; 37 games) and Fremantle (1995, ‘96; 26 games).

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Shirley among five Crows delistings

October 13th 2009 07:29
ROBERT Shirley is among five players that have been delisted by Adelaide.

Shirley was singled out by Brownlow medallist Gary Ablett and Carlton skipper Chris Judd this year as one of the best taggers in the competition.

The 29-year-old, who was taken with pick 67 in the 1999 national draft, played just 11 games in 2009 to finish with a career tally of 151.

Injury-prone forward Nick Gill, Greg Gallman, Aaron Kite and Tom Lee were the other players shown the door.

Gill managed to play just one match this season for a total of 17 while Gallman, Kite and Lee did not play an AFL game.

Crows football operations manager John Reid admitted it wasn't easy to axe players but said hard decisions had to be made for the continued development of the club's list.

"I thank all of the lads for their contribution to the club and in particular Robert Shirley, who has played more than 150 games and given tremendous service to the club and his team mates," Reid said.

"Robert is one of those players who has maximised his abilities to get the best out of himself and that has earned him the respect of everybody at the club and within the industry."

"We wish them well in their future endeavours."

Meanwhile, Adelaide announced that Brodie Martin has been elevated to the senior list.

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Cats delist five

October 13th 2009 05:44
GEELONG has delisted five players including 2003 first-round draft pick Kane Tenace.

Along with Tenace, Dan McKenna, Scott Simpson, Adam Donohue and rookie Bryn Weadon were also axed.

Taken with pick seven in the 2003 national draft, Tenace managed just five games in 2009 to finish with a career tally of 59.

McKenna, Simpson and Donohue - the son of former Cats forward and 1976 Coleman medallist Larry Donohue - were selected in the 2007 national draft and all failed to play a senior game.

Meanwhile, mid-sized defender Jeremy Laidler has been elevated to the club's senior list.

Laidler was taken with pick 32 in the 2007 rookie draft and made his AFL debut against the Brisbane Lions in round 15.

The Cats have indicated that they will make further changes to their list ahead of the AFL's list lodgement deadline of October 31.
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Hudghton joins Magpies

October 12th 2009 06:04
FORMER St Kilda defender Max Hudghton has joined Collingwood as a part-time defensive coach.

The 33-year-old, who missed out on playing in the grand final against Geelong, announced his retirement after 234 games at the Saints' post-grand final family day function.

Hudghton told the Magpies' website that he was excited by his new role.

"To be able to be involved in football to some extent and particularly to work with Mick (Malthouse) and the Collingwood Football Club will be a big change," Hudghton said.

"But it’s very exciting to be moving into a different environment, and move out of my comfort zone at St Kilda."

"St Kilda people are fantastic people, but this is very exciting for me."

Hudghton admitted he hadn't thought about getting into coaching before the Pies approached him as he was focused on his construction business but said the opportunity was too good to refuse.

“I just thought it was a really good role, to get involved with some of the young Collingwood defenders and influence their development," he said.

“I’m aware of the players I’ll be working with and I’ve got a lot of respect for the way they play. Hopefully I can help them out in a really positive way, and be a source of knowledge if they want to tap into it.”

Collingwood coach Mick Malthouse believes Hudghton will be an excellent resource for the club's young defenders.

“Max has played terrific football against all the key tall forwards in his career and has vast knowledge of them,” Malthouse said.

“As he demonstrated to us, he’s able to articulate the way he played, and that’s important if you’re going to be a teacher."

“Through the conversations we’ve had with Max, I’ve been able to establish that he knows his trade, and he’s quite prepared and capable of passing his knowledge onto young players.”

Hudghton replaces Mark Neeld who will be the club's midfield coach while Paul Hudson moves from forwards to opposition and Nathan Buckley will be in charge of the forwards in his first year as an assistant.

Meanwhile, the Magpies announced that ruckman Chris Bryan, midfielder Danny Stanley and rookie-listed players Toby Thoolen, Johnny Bennell and Kevin Dyas were delisted.


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Allison to return to North

October 11th 2009 10:41
FORMER North Melbourne dual premiership player Brett Allison will return to the club as an assistant coach.

Allison, who has filled various roles at Sydney for the past nine seasons, including coach of the reserves team, will be in charge of the Kangaroos' backline.

The 41-year-old said he was 'extremely excited' to be coming back to Arden St.

"I obviously know the place very well and had a successful playing career there but have been away a long time," Allison said.

"It's an extremely exciting time for North which has a vibrant young list, new facility and terrific new coach in Brad Scott."

North's football operations manager Donald McDonald said Allison, who will begin his new role in early November, would be an asset to the club.

"With his strong background in development, we think Brett will be a great resource and perfect fit for our young list," McDonald said.

Allison played 219 games for the Roos between 1987 and 1999.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Kangaroos
   


Sandilands claims Doig Medal

October 9th 2009 23:28
FREMANTLE ruckman Aaron Sandilands has claimed the Doig Medal as the Dockers' best-and-fairest.

Sandilands polled 132 votes to win the award ahead of skipper and five-time Doig Medallist Matthew Pavlich (112) and defender Chris Tarrant (89).

The award capped off an outstanding season for Sandilands who earnt All-Australian honours for the second consecutive season last month.

The 26-year-old was the AFL's dominant ruckman in 2009, amassing 659 hit outs at an average of 32.9 per game. He also averaged 17 possessions and five clearances per game.

In other awards, Stephen Hill won the Beacon Award as the club's best first-year player, Michael Johnson was named best clubman while Luke McPharlin collected the Past Players and Officials’ Award.

Doig Medal Top 10
1. Aaron Sandilands (132)
2. Matthew Pavlich (112)
3. Chris Tarrant (89)
4. Paul Duffield (75)
5. Paul Hasleby (68)
6. David Mundy (68)
7. Stephen Hill (62)
8. Greg Broughton (52)
9. Garrick Ibbotson (43)
10. Steven Dodd (35)

Other award winners:
Beacon award: Stephen Hill
Best clubman: Michael Johnson
Past Players and Officials' award: Luke McPharlin

Life Membership:
Antoni Grover
Rick Hart
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Fremantle Dockers
   


I have apologised: Fevola

October 9th 2009 11:26
NEW Brisbane forward Brendan Fevola says he has apologised to everyone affected by his drunken antics at last month's Brownlow Medal count.

Speaking at Wet 'n' Wild on the Gold Coast just hours after he was traded by Carlton to the Lions, Fevola expressed regret for his actions but when questioned over an alleged sexual assault of a female Herald Sun journalist at Crown Casino on the AFL's night of night's he refused to comment further.

"I've apologised to everyone that was in my statement, I apologised to all the people that needed to be apologised to on the night," Fevola said.

"I pretty much made a d--k of myself that night, obviously I had too much to drink, I don't think I missed too many people that night, I've apologised to the AFL, to the club, to my supporters, to the players and other media people who were there and I want to express my deep sorriness again."

"It was absolutely disgusting, my behaviour. I’ve been in trouble a bit over the time and you never really see what’s happened, and to watch those tapes of the Footy Show you just look at it and think ‘I don’t want to be that person’ and you don’t want to be back there again and it was quite embarrassing."

Fevola admitted that it was his own fault that he was offloaded by the Blues.

"The Carlton footy club, obviously, were fed up with everything, and you don't blame them, they had their hands tied, I think we are both pretty sad to see each other go but we come to the Brisbane Lions and it's a fresh start," he said.

"I've left Carlton probably on my own fault, the Carlton footy club has obviously given me a great life and set me up, I've been there for 11 years, I wanted to be a one-club player and play 200 games."

"But through my own fault that’s not going to happen, the footy club stood by me through everything, I owe them a lot, I'm sad that I'm leaving the Carlton footy club."

The 28-year-old believes his new team will be a genuine premiership contender in 2010.

"(The Lions) have traded as if they want to win a flag and I want to win a premiership. I didn’t want to go to a team that wasn’t going to make the eight. I wanted to go to a team that could have a fair crack at winning a premiership and Brisbane is that team and coming here is gong to be great and I’m really looking forward to starting," he said.

Fevola may have won two Coleman Medals and earnt All-Australian honours on three occassions but he is aware that he has plenty to prove at Brisbane.

"I've got to earn a lot of trust especially with Vossy (Brisbane coach Michael Voss), the coaching staff and the players, I'm going into the club as a new recruit, I've just got to be humble and go about my business, hopefully footy does all the talking," he said.

"My last four or five years has been pretty good in footy terms, if I can just do that and not be a dickhead out of the footy field I think everyone will be happy."

Voss said the club's culture will help Fevola thrive.

"I think we have a very healthy culture at our football club that is going to help Brendan maximise his football capabilities," Voss said.

"We have a good group on the rise that he can add value to, not only on the field but off the field ... we are all aware of what's happened before, but I guess he wouldn't be standing beside me if I was concerned."

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AFL prepared to take action against Fev

October 9th 2009 08:07
THE AFL says it is prepared to take action against new Brisbane forward Brendan Fevola who has been accused of sexual assault.

Fevola is alleged to have assaulted a female Herald Sun journalist during his drunken antics at last month's Brownlow Medal count which prompted Carlton to trade the Coleman Medallist.

AFL football operations manager Adrian Anderson said the league was taking the claims 'extremely seriously'.

"We have got a respect and responsibility policy towards women that has been in place for five years now and any contraventions of that policy will be viewed very seriously by the AFL," Anderson said.

"We have spoken to the employer of the woman concerned, we have provided support and access to counselling and we have also made it clear that the AFL is ready and willing to act on any breach on what we expect of the way our players should behave towards women."

Fevola has apologised to the woman, who has not made an official complaint, but Anderson said the AFL would be ready to act if she elected to take the matter further.

"We have provided support and indicated we are ready, willing and able to act as soon as she would like to talk to us," he said.

The journalist has been emotionally affected by the incident and has received counselling.

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Trade week: Completed deals

October 9th 2009 04:21
MONDAY:

North Melbourne traded defender Josh Gibson and pick 69 to Hawthorn for picks 25 and 41.

Sydney offloaded small forward Amon Buchanan to Brisbane and received pick 28 in return.

West Coast utility Brent Staker was moved to the Lions in exchange for Bradd Dalziell and pick 39.

The Eagles also traded ruckman Mark Seaby and pick 39 to the Swans for selection 22.

Richmond defender Andrew Raines will join Brisbane who have given pick 44 to the Tigers for the 2006 NAB Rising Star runner-up.

Melbourne will receive Carlton's first-round pick (number 11 overall) in return for bullocking midfielder Brock McLean.

TUESDAY:

Sydney will get pick 47 from the Western Bulldogs for premiership forward Barry Hall. The two clubs will also swap later round picks to be determined later in trade week.

Essendon speedster Andrew Lovett will cross over to St Kilda in exchange for the Saints' first-round pick (number 16 overall).

WEDNESDAY:

St Kilda has acquired Brett Peake from Fremantle in exchange for a third-round draft pick (number 48 overall).

Collingwood has secured the services of Sydney ruckman Darren Jolly in exchange for picks 14 and 46.

THURSDAY:

Port Adelaide has snared Jay Schulz from Richmond in exchange for Mitch Farmer and pick 72.

St Kilda has traded Xavier Clarke to Brisbane for pick 60.

Sydney has secured promising young Geelong ruckman Shane Mumford in exchange for pick 28.

Hawthorn duo Josh Kennedy and Ben McGlynn have been offloaded to the Swans for picks 39, 46 and 70

Geelong has given up pick 49 for Fremantle defender Marcus Drum.

Port Adelaide midfielder Shaun Burgoyne will head to Hawthorn; Jay Nash (Essendon) and picks nine and 16 from the Hawks and Bombers respectively go to Port; Hawks premiership forward Mark Williams, pick 24 (PA) and pick 33 (Geelong) are bound for the Dons; picks 40 (PA), 42 (Ess) and 56 (PA) will go to the Cats.

FRIDAY:

Carlton has traded wayward spearhead Brendan Fevola and pick 27 to Brisbane for promising young key position player Lachlan Henderson and pick 12.

Former St Kilda skipper Luke Ball failed to find a new home and is expected to enter the pre-season draft.
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Fevola traded to Lions

October 9th 2009 00:37
CARLTON has traded wayward spearhead Brendan Fevola to Brisbane.

The Blues offloaded the Coleman Medallist and pick 27 for key position prospect Lachlan Hendenson and the Lions' first-round pick - number 12 overall.

Brisbane had offered Daniel Bradshaw and Michael Rischitelli in a straight swap for Fevola but the deal fell through when Rischitelli rejected a move to Visy Park.

With Fevola, Bradshaw and skipper Jonathan Brown up forward, the Lions will have potentially the most damaging attack in the AFL.

It is understood Fevola has signed a three-year deal with Brisbane worth just over $2 million.

The two clubs have entered into an agreement regarding Fevola's new deal but it is unknown whether the Blues are required to subsidise it.

Fevola, who had two years to run on his contract with Carlton, was entitled to payments in the order of $550,000 next season and up to $800,000 the following year

Trading the 28-year-old sees the Blues get back into the first-round of the national draft after they gave pick 11 to Melbourne for midfielder Brock McLean.

There was no doubting Fevola's talent as he kicked 575 goals in 197 games at Carlton and earned two Coleman Medals but the club finally grew tired of his poor off-field behaviour following his drunken antics at last month's Brownlow Medal count.

Henderson, a key position player that is capable of playing at either end of the ground, was taken with pick eight in the 2007 national draft and played 15 games for the Lions.


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Hawks snare Burgoyne

October 8th 2009 11:24
HAWTHORN has snared Port Adelaide midfielder Shaun Burgoyne in a complex four-club deal.

Hawks premiership forward Mark Williams joins Essendon on a three-year contract and Bomber Jay Nash heads to Port as part of the trade.

The Power also received two first-round draft selections - picks nine and 16 from Hawthorn and Essendon respectively - while the Bombers were given picks 24 (from Port) and 33 (from Geelong).

The Cats gained picks 40 and 56 from Port Adelaide and pick 42 from Essendon.

Hawthorn list manager Chris Pelchen said Burgoyne, who has signed a three-year deal with the 2008 premiers, was a welcome addition to the club.

"Shaun is a quality player of outstanding character and we welcome him to our club," Pelchen said.

"He offers us another highly talented option in our midfield and we look forward to seeing him in the brown and gold next year."

Pelchen also said the Hawks were delighted to have facilitated Williams' move to Essendon.

"Williams had a contract with Hawthorn for the 2010 season but received an offer for three years from Essendon and requested to be traded," he said.

"We were able to use that request to satisfy the trade of Shaun to Hawthorn, so it is mutually beneficial that Mark has found a new home and that the Hawks have been able to add such a quality player to our squad."

Port Adelaide football operations manager Peter Rohde wished Burgoyne all the best in the future and said the deal left the club in a 'terrific position'.

"This leaves us with picks eight, nine and 16 in the National Draft, which is a terrific position," Rohde said.

"We are also delighted to have secured Jay Nash from Essendon."

"We have had our eye on Jay since he was drafted and really rate him as a half-back or on-baller."

Essendon coach Matthew Knights believes the deal will benefit the Bombers in the short and long-term.

"The reality is, this week we have assisted Andrew Lovett to find a new home and, in return, we have gained Mark Williams and two second round draft picks," Knights said.

"We are extremely happy with the outcome of this trade deal and think it will deliver excellent short and long-term benefits for the football club."

"We wanted an x-factor forward who could fill a number of roles and Mark Williams is just that player. He kicked three goals in the 2008 Grand Final and five goals in the preliminary final so he can deliver on the big stage."

"He is a great kick at goal and has recovered from the knee injury that hampered him this year. He will be a very exciting addition to our forward line and, importantly, he was very keen to come to Windy Hill."

In an unrelated deal announced on Thursday night, Hawthorn duo Josh Kennedy and Ben McGlynn are bound for Sydney after the two clubs agreed on a trade.

The Swans offloaded pick 39 for Kennedy and picks 46 and 70 for McGlynn.



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Cats lose Mumford, secure Drum

October 8th 2009 10:46
GEELONG has lost promising young ruckman Shane Mumford to Sydney but has secured the services of Fremantle defender Marcus Drum.

The Cats will receive pick 28 in the national draft for Mumford while they offloaded selection 49 for Drum.

Mumford, who was on a rookie contract at Geelong, has been offered a four-year deal reportedly worth $1 million.

Geelong's general manager of football operations Neil Balme said the club didn't have enough room in the salary cap to match the Swans' offer.

"The reality is that we could not and would not compete with the dollars that Shane has been offered," Balme said.

"It's well known that we want to keep our group together and all of the players have accepted that to do that they have to forego bigger offers from other clubs to achieve that goal. Shane has chosen not do that that, and while we are disappointed to see him go, we will not deviate from our philosophy."

Mumford played 21 games for Geelong after being identified by the club when he was playing country football in Bunyip in country Victoria.

Drum - the nephew of former Geelong rover and Fremantle coach Damien Drum - managed 22 appearances for the Dockers after being taken with the number 10 pick in the 2005 national draft.

Balme believes there is a place for Drum in the Cats' line-up.

"We see Marcus as a versatile player that can fit into our structure. He has played some good games at Fremantle and we feel that his best football is still ahead of him," he said.

"Marcus is only 22, and is a quality person. He was a top 10 draft pick just four years ago, and has talent and a good work ethic, and sees the opportunity to play as the most important thing given our tight salary structure."

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Geelong Cats
   


Johnson signs one-year deal with Dogs

October 8th 2009 07:33
WESTERN BULLDOGS skipper Brad Johnson will become the first player in the club's history to reach 350 games after signing a one-year deal.

Johnson will play his 350th match in round one next season.

The 33-year-old, who finished fourth in the 2009 Charlie Sutton Medal count for the club's best-and-fairest player, said he was 'rapt' to be playing on next year.

"The fact that Brian (Lake) has recommitted to the club and with the inclusion of Barry Hall for the 2010 season, it's a fantastic time to be at the Western Bulldogs," Johnson said.

Bulldogs football manager James Fantasia said Johnson's leadership would be vital in 2010.

"Apart from his ability, Brad is just an exceptional character to have around the club," Fantasia said.

"He is a fantastic mentor to our young players and a great leader on the ground."

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Western Bulldogs
   


Clarke joins Lions

October 8th 2009 07:19
ST KILDA has traded Xavier Clarke to Brisbane for pick 60 in next month's national draft.

Clarke did not play any senior football in 2009 due to a serious knee injury.

The 26-year-old said he was looking forward to revitalising his career at the Lions.

"I've been offered a terrific opportunity at Brisbane and I'm really looking forward to further developing my career with the Lions," said Clarke.

"I'd also like to thank all those involved at St Kilda football club for their support over the years and for providing me with the opportunity to play AFL football."

Saints coach Ross Lyon paid tribute to Clarke for his contribution to the club.

“Xavier has been a loyal servant of our club since he was drafted in 2001, not only on the field but he also spearheaded our ‘Saints in the Community’ program,” Lyon said.

“Xavier was always a popular figure at the Saints and we are pleased to see him provided with a great opportunity up north. We wish him all the best at Brisbane.”

Clarke was taken with pick five in the 2001 national draft and played 105 games for St Kilda.

He is the fourth player picked up by Brisbane during trade week, joining Amon Buchanan (Sydney), Brent Staker (West Coast) and Andrew Raines (Richmond).
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Magpies land Jolly

October 8th 2009 00:46
COLLINGWOOD has secured the services of Sydney ruckman Darren Jolly.

Under the deal agreed on Wednesday night, the Swans will receive the Magpies' first-round draft pick - number 14 overall - and pick 46 in return for Jolly who wanted to return to Victoria for family reasons.

Sydney coach Paul Roos said the club was disappointed to lose Jolly but respected his decision to return home.

"We would have loved him to stay, but we also get where he's at in his life," Roos said.

The Swans snared West Coast's Mark Seaby on the first day of trade week and are keen to add a second ruckman to their list – promising Geelong youngster Shane Mumford the prime target.

Roos said Mumford wanted to joined the club.

"He's indicated to us that he'll come to the club and we obviously hope to complete a trade with the Geelong Football Club and we intend to work with them on Thursday and see what we can do," he said.

Jolly was taken with pick 31 in the 2000 rookie draft and played 48 games at Melbourne before joining Sydney.

He spent five seasons at the Swans and was a member of the club's 2005 premiership side.

The acquisition of Jolly increases speculation that Collingwood will trade Josh Fraser as the Magpies will want to continue to nurture young ruckman Cameron Wood.

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Saints acquire Peake

October 7th 2009 11:45
ST KILDA has acquired midfielder Brett Peake from Fremantle in exchange for their number 48 pick in next month's national draft.

Saints coach Ross Lyon said he believes the 26-year-old would be a valuable addition to the club's midfield.

"He comes from a great football pedigree and has proven himself as ball winner and versatile player since debuting in 2005," Lyon said.

"He is a quick player who loves to run and carry the ball and we think he will be a valued addition to the St Kilda midfield unit."

Peake was taken in the 2003 national draft as a father-son selection and kicked 42 goals in 75 games for the Dockers.

The acquisition of Peake comes just a day after St Kilda secured the services of Essendon speedster Andrew Lovett for pick 16.
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Demons duo re-sign

October 7th 2009 06:03
MELBOURNE duo Mark Jamar and Brad Miller have signed contract extensions which will tie them to the Demons until the end of next season.

Jamar had attracted interest from Port Adelaide who is desperate to fill the vacancy left by retired ruckman Brendon Lade but he elected not to return to his native South Australia.

The 26-year-old was taken with pick six in the 2001 rookie draft and has played 73 games for the Demons since making his debut in round one, 2003.

Miller was the number 55 selection in the 2001 national draft and has played 127 games for the club since making his debut in round eight, 2002.

Melbourne's list manager Tim Harrington said the club was 'really pleased' to have re-signed the pair.

"They are both experienced players at the club, and at 26 years of age we expect them both to play an important role for the team next year," Harrington said.
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Brown remains a Hawk

October 7th 2009 04:47
HAWTHORN hardman Campbell Brown will remain at the club after turning down an offer to move to Port Adelaide.

There had been reports that the Hawks had offered the 2008 premiership defender and their first-round draft pick (number nine overall) for star midfielder Shaun Burgoyne.

But the club said in a statement that Brown had no interest in moving to Alberton.

"Hawthorn’s Campbell Brown has declined an approach by Port Adelaide to join the South Australian club as part of a trade for Power’s Shaun Burgoyne," the statement said.

"Port Adelaide raised its interest in the versatile defender with Brown’s management at Elite Sports Properties, however, Brown expressed his desire to stay at Hawthorn and he re-affirmed his commitment to the club in talks with club officials today."

Earlier in the day, Hawks president Jeff Kennett dismissed suggestions that the club was prepared to part with Brown.

"The story is wrong, wrong, wrong," Kennett told SEN.

"Young Campbell is going nowhere, his future is with Hawthorn."

"As far as I know we didn't offer him up, his named wasn't offered up."

"That doesn't mean that clubs aren't approaching players - that's part of the game."

"I'm not saying for a moment that Port Adelaide hasn't approached Campbell but Hawthorn has not offered up any premiership player and nor will we - it is my desire that no premiership player leaves Hawthorn."
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Gold Coast names football manager

October 7th 2009 02:34
THE Gold Coast Football Club has named former Brisbane triple premiership player Marcus Ashcroft as its football manager.

Ashcroft is the current games-record holder for the Lions with 318 matches and was the first non-Victorian to reach the 300-game mark.

He retired following Brisbane's last premiership success in 2003 and spent four years at the Lions in an administration role before joining the fledging club as an assistant coach last year.

The 39-year-old said he always wanted to be in charge of the football department.

"I really enjoyed the coaching part but all along my ambition was to be football manager," Ashcroft said.

"My role will be to provide leadership in a rapidly expanding football department in preparation for the club's first season in 2011."

"We have a small team now that will more than double by the end of next year so there are many challenges."

"Having grown up on the Coast, gone to school and university and having played here it is great to be involved in a local AFL team."

Gold Coast chief executive Travis Auld said the club was 'delighted' with Ashcroft's appointment.

"He is a quality person and had a stellar career with the Brisbane Lions which continues our goal of creating a culture of success for GCFC," Auld said.

"He had an impeccable record at AFL level and importantly for the Gold Coast is a product of our local football community and has a passionate connection with the Gold Coast."

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Lake re-signs with Bulldogs

October 7th 2009 01:57
WESTERN BULLDOGS All-Australian defender Brian Lake has ended a protracted round of negotiations by signing a four-year deal with the Bulldogs.

The new contract ensures that the 27-year-old will finish his career at the club.

Dogs coach Rodney Eade said Lake was the club's most important player.

"Brian's the key one ... over the past three or four years he's taken his game to new levels," Eade said.

"If he didn’t sign and he went somewhere else, which Brian had said he did not want to, but in the worst case scenario, we did not know what we were going to do in that situation. There was a big hole in the side (if that happened),”

"He's more important than anyone else, certainly more important than Barry (Hall), but the fact that Barry's here as well gives is key strength at both ends."

Lake had attracted strong interest from rival clubs but said he was never interested in leaving the Western Bulldogs

"My main objective was obviously to stay here and get the best contract I could possibly with the Bulldogs, there was no intent in moving," Lake said.

Lake has played 147 games since making his debut in 2002 and is regarded as one of the AFL's elite defenders.
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Saints snare Lovett

October 6th 2009 06:43
ST KILDA has snared Essendon speedster Andrew Lovett.

The Saints will send their first-round pick - number 16 overall - to the Bombers for the 26-year-old wingman.

It is understood that Lovett has signed a three-year deal with St Kilda.

Brisbane and Port Adelaide was in the market for Lovett and were believed to have put forward four-year contracts on more money than the Saints offered.

The opportunity to play for a legitimate premiership contender and stay in Victoria played a key role in Lovett's decision to sign with St Kilda.

Saints coach Ross Lyon said the club was 'very pleased' to have secured the services of Lovett.

"With immense skills and great speed, we have no doubt that Andrew will prove a solid contributor to the St Kilda team," Lyon said.

"We look forward to welcoming him to the club."

Essendon football operations manager Paul Hamilton told the club's official website that the deal benefited both parties.

"We are very happy with this deal and it's great for the Essendon Football Club and for Andrew Lovett that a suitable trade could be reached," Hamilton said.

"Andrew now has the opportunity to start fresh at a new club and we wish him all the best."

"As things stand, Essendon currently has two first round selections (No.10 and No.16) and a second-round pick (No.26) which places us in a very strong position to recruit some talented young players to Windy Hill."

Lovett made his debut for the Bombers in 2005 and booted 93 goals in 88 games.
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Hall joins Bulldogs

October 6th 2009 02:47
FORMER Sydney premiership forward Barry Hall has joined the Western Bulldogs on a two-year contract.

The Bulldogs announced on Tuesday that they had secured the services of Hall in exchange for their third-round selection (number 47 overall) in next month's national draft while the two clubs will also swap later round picks to be determined later in trade week.

The 32-year-old, who quit the Swans in June following the last in a series of suspensions for striking Adelaide full-back Ben Rutten, said he had 'unfinished business' in football.

"It left a bad taste in my mouth and there were rumours about me doing other things (boxing) and it just didn't feel right to do that," Hall said.

"I still reckon I've got a lot to offer footy, a lot to offer the Bulldogs - it was a matter of unfinished business."

Hall also said he was confident that he could keep his temper under control.

"I wouldn't put myself in a situation like this or the Bulldogs in this situation if I didn't think I could handle it," he said.

"There's always going to be question marks and I'm not going to shy away from that."

"I can't promise anything but I think I can get on top of it."

"It could end very badly if it does happen, I'm very aware of that."

Hall will be reunited with his former coach Rodney Eade who was in charge of Sydney from 1996 to 2002 before joining the Western Bulldogs in 2005.

Eade said Hall offered a lot of versatility and that he wouldn't be relied on to kick a bag every week.

"He's very unselfish, he can lead up, he'll actually play a decoy role, he can play full forward, he can play on a flank, a whole range of things," Eade said.

"We were the highest scoring team during the year and our top goalscorer was 40-odd, so we don't need a person to come in and kick 70 or 80 goals - that's not Barry's role."

"Barry's role is to fit in with the mix and give us a target at certain times."

Sydney coach Paul Roos said in a statement that Hall would be remembered as a great servant of the club and wished him all the best in the future.

"As has been said before, Hally will always be remembered as a fantastic player, a premiership player, and no one will forget him raising the cup after the premiership win in 2005," Roos said.

"We wish him all the best in his new role at the Western Bulldogs and hope he is as successful there as he has been at the Swans."

Hall played 88 games for St Kilda before joining Sydney at the end of 2001 where he managed 162 appearances in eight seasons.

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Ball requests trade to Magpies

October 5th 2009 09:58
FORMER St Kilda skipper Luke Ball has requested a trade to Collingwood.

Ball was offered a three-year contract by the Saints in June but has elected to pursue his career elsewhere.

The 25-year-old found himself in the VFL at various stages throughout the season but fought his way back into the side for the finals and was a busy contributor in the grand final loss to Geelong with 22 possessions despite having limited game time.

St Kilda coach Ross Lyon said the club was 'extremely disappointed' with Ball's decision.

"We were confident Luke would stay with the Club, as he has always been a required player, however we will now do what is best for the St Kilda Football Club's interests and those of its members and supporters with the aim of completing an equitable trade for a person of Luke's calibre, leadership, playing honours and experience," Lyon said.

Ball was taken with the number two pick in the 2001 national draft and played 142 games for St Kilda.

He earnt All-Australian honours in 2005 and shared the club's best-and-fairest award.

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, St Kilda Saints
   


Selwood's grand final jumper found

October 5th 2009 08:38
THE jumper worn by Geelong young gun Joel Selwood in the Cats' grand final win over St Kilda has been found among a collection of sporting memorabilia worth $30,000.

Selwood and fellow midfielder James Bartel had their jumpers stolen in the days after the win over the Saints last month and made a public plea for their return.

Bartel's guernsey is still missing but police recovered Selwood's jumper, a bag and equipment belonging to dual premiership ruckman Brad Ottens and a limited edition photograph of Cats legends Polly Farmer and Gary Ablett in a raid on a home in the Geelong suburb of Bell Post Hill on Saturday morning.

Police also found several framed and signed Geelong jumpers.

Detective Senior Sergeant Dave McTaggart said a 43-year-old man was helping police with their enquiries but no charges have been laid.

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Geelong Cats
   


Seaby becomes a Swan

October 5th 2009 03:28
SYDNEY has secured the services of West Coast ruckman Mark Seaby in a complex three-way deal completed on the first day of trade week that sees Swans premiership player Amon Buchanan and Eagle Brent Staker join Brisbane and Lion Bradd Dalziell head to the Eagles.

The Swans also traded their second-round pick (No.22 overall) to West Coast.

Seaby, who was a member of the Eagles' 2006 premiership side, managed just five appearances this season due to the presence of Dean Cox and emerging ruck talent Nic Naitanui.

The 25-year-old could become Sydney's number one ruckman with Darren Jolly keen to move back to Victoria.

Buchanan played a key role in the Swans' 2005 premiership but has struggled with form in recent seasons and played just eight games this year.

The enigmatic Staker was restricted to just six matches this season due to injury and like Buchanan he will be looking to revitalise his career at Brisbane.

Dalziell impressed in his debut season last year, averaging 26 possessions in seven appearances but he missed the majority of 2009 after suffering a knee injury in round five.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


North trade Gibson to Hawks

October 5th 2009 00:08
NORTH MELBOURNE has traded defender Josh Gibson to Hawthorn.

The Kangaroos will receive picks 25 and 41 in November's national draft in return for Gibson and pick 69.

The 25-year-old, who was not allowed to attend the Roos' best-and-fairest awards on Friday night after having walked out on the club after the season had finished, told the Hawks website that he was looking forward to playing a part in the club's future success.

"Joining the Hawks was a footballing decision for me," Gibson said.

"The club has given me the chance to play a role and I look forward in contributing to the future success of Hawthorn."

"I'd like to thank the Hawks for the opportunity and I look forward to playing my part."

Hawthorn list manager Chris Pelchen was delighted to have secured the services of Gibson who played 65 matches in four seasons with North Melbourne.

"We're obviously delighted to have completed the trade for Josh Gibson so early in AFL Trade Week," Pelchen said.

"Josh will become an important part of the Hawthorn defensive structure in 2010 and notably assist with the further development of emerging young players such as Ryan Schoenmakers and Brendan Whitecross in defence."

Kangaroos football operations manager Donald McDonald said the club was pleased with the deal.

“We will now have the opportunity to bring in two young players who desperately want to be at this club," McDonald said.

“We have an extremely bright future and we’re only interested in people who believe in where we’re heading as an organisation. ”
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Kangaroos
   


Tredrea wins fourth John Cahill Medal

October 3rd 2009 23:40
PORT ADELAIDE forward Warren Tredrea has won his fourth John Cahill Medal as the Power's best-and-fairest.

Tredrea polled 103 votes to claim the top honour ahead of dual best-and-fairest winner Kane Cornes (100).

Defender Troy Chaplin finished third in the count with 92 votes while Jacob Surjan and Robbie Gray were equal fourth with 91 votes.

The former Port skipper, who enjoyed an injury free season for the first time in many years, won his previous three Power John Cahill Medal's in 2001, 2004 and 2005.

Tredrea led the club's goal kicking this year with 51 goals - the eighth time he has led Port Adelaide in that category but the first time since 2005.

He recently re-signed with the club and will become the first Power player to reach 250 games.

In other awards, captain Domenic Cassisi won a second successive Fos Williams Medal as the player’s choice for the club’s best team man, Travis Boak collected the Gavin Wanganeen Medal for the best player aged under 21, the most improved award went to Robbie Gray while Hamish Hartlett was named best first-year player.

John Cahill Medal Top 10
1st - Warren Tredrea (103 votes)
2nd - Kane Cornes (100 votes)
3rd - Troy Chaplin (92 votes)
4th - Robbie Gray (91 votes)
4th - Jacob Surjan (91 votes)
6th - Travis Boak (81 votes)
7th - Domenic Cassisi (78 votes)
8th - Alipate Carlile (73 votes)
8th - Danyle Pearce (73 votes)
10th - David Rodan (70 votes)

Other award winners:
Fos Williams Medal: Domenic Cassisi
Gavin Wanganeen Medal: Travis Boak
Most improved award: Robbie Gray
Best first-year player: Hamish Hartlett
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Port Adelaide Power
   


Riewoldt collects record fifth B&F award

October 3rd 2009 14:09
ST KILDA captain Nick Riewoldt has collected a record fifth Trevor Barker Award as the Saints' best-and-fairest.

Riewoldt, who led the club to a 20-2 win-loss record for the season before losing to Geelong in last week's grand final, polled 642 votes to win the top gong ahead of utility Brendon Goddard (638) and wingman Leigh Montagna (635).

Classy midfielder Nick Dal Santo finished third with 618 votes while vice-captain Lenny Hayes (603) rounded out the top five.

Riewoldt's victory sees him overtake St Kilda games record holder Robert Harvey and club champion Bill Cubbins, who won four best-and-fairest awards apiece.

The champion centre half-forward booted 78 goals and took 231 marks in 24 games in 2009.

He earnt All-Australian honours for the fourth time this year and was also named captain of the side.

In other awards, defender Zac Dawson was named the most promising new player while tagger Clinton Jones won the Robert Harvey most professional award.

Meanwhile, Saints retirees Max Hudghton and Jarryd Allen were recognised for their services to the club.

2009 Trevor Barker Award Top 10
Nick Riewoldt 642
Brendon Goddard 638
Leigh Montagna 635
Nick Dal Santo 618
Lenny Hayes 603
Clinton Jones 587
Sam Fisher 531
Sam Gilbert 521
Jason Blake 487
Jason Gram 463

Other award winners:
Most promising new player: Zac Dawson
Robert Harvey most professional award: Clinton Jones


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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, St Kilda Saints
   


Mitchell named top Hawk

October 3rd 2009 13:44
HAWTHORN skipper Sam Mitchell has claimed his second Peter Crimmins Medal on Saturday night.

Mitchell collected 170 votes to win the best-and-fairest award ahead of classy young forward Cyril Rioli (123) and star Lance Franklin (121).

The Hawks' midfielder's consistency in 2009 was highlighted by the fact that he polled in 21 of his 22 games.

In other awards, Liam Shiels was named the club's best first-year player while Brendan Whitecross won the most improved award.

Mitchell also collected the award for most consistent and Clinton Young was awarded best clubman.

Peter Crimmins Medal Top 10
1. Sam Mitchell 170
2. Cyril Rioli 123
3. Lance Franklin 121
4. Brad Sewell 113
5. Chance Bateman 112
6. Luke Hodge 96
7. Jarryd Roughead 92
8. Campbell Brown 91
9. Grant Birchall 81
10. Jordan Lewis 73

Other award winners:
Best first-year player: Liam Shiels
Most improved award: Brendan Whitecross
Best clubman: Clinton Young
Most consistent: Sam Mitchell
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Hawthorn Hawks
   


Boyd wins first Charles Sutton Medal

October 3rd 2009 13:29
WESTERN BULLDOGS midfielder Matthew Boyd has capped off a career-best season by winning his first Charles Sutton Medal as the Bulldogs' best-and-fairest.

Boyd, who was named in the All-Australian team for the first time this year, polled 154 votes to win the award ahead of fellow midfielder Daniel Cross (145) and defender Dale Morris (133).

Cross appeared to be on track to secure back-to-back best-and-fairest awards but an ankle injury which saw him miss rounds 20 and 21 opened the door for Boyd to claim the top honour.

Skipper Brad Johnson finished in fourth place with 131 votes while All-Australian back pocket Brian Lake (125) rounded out the top five.

In other awards, Liam Picken was named best first-year player, Callan Ward won the most promising player award while Morris claimed the Scott West most courageous player award.

2009 Charles Sutton Medal Top 10
1. Matthew Boyd 154 votes
2. Daniel Cross 145 votes
3. Dale Morris 133 votes
4. Brad Johnson 131 votes
5. Brian Lake 125 votes
6. Jarrod Harbrow 123 votes
7. Adam Cooney 110 votes
8. Shaun Higgins 96 votes
9. Ryan Hargrave 93 votes
10. Jason Akermanis 86 votes

Other award winners:
Community Award: Jarrod Harbrow
Williamtown's most outstanding Western Bulldogs Player: Wayde Skipper
Best first-year player: Liam Picken
Most promising player: Callan Ward
Match committee award: Ryan Hargrave
Scott West most courageous player Award: Dale Morris
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Western Bulldogs
   


Campbell calls it a day

October 3rd 2009 13:12
HAWTHORN ruckman Robert Campbell has announced his retirement from AFL football due to a degenerative knee condition.

Campbell, who was a key member of the club's 2008 premiership side, informed his teammates prior to the Peter Crimmins Medal at Crown Palladium on Saturday night of his decision to retire.

The loss of the 27-year-old means Hawthorn will have to rely on Simon Taylor and Brent Renouf to carry the ruck load in 2010 given youngster Max Bailey will miss all of next season with another serious knee injury.

Campbell said he would be 'eternally grateful' for the opportunities he had been given and the support he'd been shown by the club during his 116-game career.

"You're told from the start of your career that footy is a tough, uncompromising and challenging business, and you are never under any illusion," Campbell told the club's website.

"Since 2005 I knew that I have had a degenerative knee condition, and I had thought at that time my career might be cut short, then and there."

"I will be eternally grateful for the faith Clarko (coach Alastair Clarkson) and his coaching group showed in me - to allow me to continue playing footy - and ultimately play in a premiership team."

"I would also like to thanks my family, my partner and my friends for their amazing support over my career in football."

Clarkson said Campbell would be missed but the club respected his decision to hang up the boots.

"We had enormous trust and belief in the manner that Robbie could influence a contest and this will be one aspect that will be difficult to replace," Clarkson said.

"He has overcome many obstacles in his football career but we have taken the decision that the journey of life should now take significance over the journey of foot ball. A player's well-being is the most important thing."



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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Hawthorn Hawks
   


Vince voted best Crow

October 3rd 2009 01:31
ADELAIDE midfielder Bernie Vince has celebrated his 24th birthday by winning his first club best-and-fairest award.

Vince polled 43 votes to win the Malcolm Blight Medal ahead of classy forward Jason Porplyzia (41).

Skipper Simon Goodwin (39) finished third while Michael Doughty, Graham Johncock and promising key forward Kurt Tippett rounded out the top six on 38 votes.

Vince, who was a member of this year's preliminary 40-man All-Australian squad, played all 24 matches this season and recorded the eighth-most possessions of any player in 2009 (659) at an average of 27.5 per game.

Highlighting his consistency was the fact that he polled votes in all but two games.

Meanwhile, the Crows announced that Tippett had signed a two-year contract extension which will see him remain at West Lakes until at least the end of the 2012 season.

The 22-year-old, who was drafted from Southport in Queensland, booted 55 goals this year including a seven-goal haul against Essendon in round 11 and was a prime target for the new Gold Coast Football Club which will enter the competition in 2011.

Adelaide also confirmed that veterans Goodwin, Brett Burton, Tyson Edwards and Andrew McLeod had agreed to one-year deals while Brent Reilly and Trent Hentschel have secured contract extensions.


Macolm Blight Medal Top 10
43 – Bernie Vince
41 – Jason Porplyzia
39 – Simon Goodwin
38 – Michael Doughty
38 – Graham Johncock
38 – Kurt Tippett
36 – Scott Thompson
30 – Tyson Edwards
30 – Andrew McLeod
29 – Chris Knights
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Adelaide Crows
   


Brown named Lions' best, again

October 2nd 2009 23:42
BRISBANE skipper Jonathan Brown has been named as the Lions' best-and-fairest for a third consecutive year.

Brown polled 57.5 votes to win the Merrett-Murray Medal from star midfielder Simon Black (56.5).

The win sees Brown join legend Kevin Murray as the only two players in the history of both Fitzroy and Brisbane to win a hat-trick of best-and-fairests

The 27-year-old, who played all 24 matches this year, kicked a career-high 85 goals to finish second in the Coleman Medal race to Brendan Fevola and earned All-Australian honours for the second time.

He also finished equal fourth in the Brownlow Medal count with Black on 19 votes.

Ruckman Mitch Clark enjoyed a breakout season in 2009 and finished third in the club champion count with 54 votes.

Vice-captain Luke Power (51.5) was fourth - his seventh consecutive top five finish - while Justin Sherman (45) rounded out the top five.

NAB Rising Star winner Daniel Rich capped off a stellar debut season by finishing sixth with 41.5 votes and also winning the Lions' rookie of the year award.

Merrett-Murray Medal Top 10
1st: Jonathan Brown - 57.5
2nd: Simon Black - 56.5
3rd: Mitch Clark - 54
4th: Luke Power - 51.5
5th: Justin Sherman - 45
6th: Daniel Rich - 41.5
7th: Ashley McGrath - 41
8th: Joel Patfull - 35
9th: Jared Brennan - 31
10th: Josh Drummond - 30

Other award winners
Members' Player of the Year award: Jonathan Brown
Most Professional Player award: Jonathan Brown
Rookie of the Year: Daniel Rich

Life Membership
Jonathan Brown
Mac Tolliday
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Brisbane Lions
   


Swan claims second straight Copeland Trophy

October 2nd 2009 13:49
COLLINGWOOD star Dane Swan has claimed his second straight EW Copeland Tropy at the Crown Casino on Friday night.

The hard-working midfielder, who played all 25 matches and averaged 30 disposals per game, polled 57 votes to win the Magpies' best-and-fairest award ahead of skipper and fellow All-Australian Nick Maxwell (48).

The win sees Swan join illustrious company - only 12 players in the club's history before him including the likes of of club legends Bob Rose, Murray Weideman, Len Thompson and Nathan Buckley have won the award back-to-back.

Heath Shaw finished third ahead of fellow defender Harry O'Brien despite the pair both polling 43 votes.

Under the club’s voting system, players that are tied for votes at the end of counting are separated on a games-played basis.

Alan Didak rounded out the top five with 41 votes.

In other awards, promising young midfielder Dayne Beams won the best first-year player award, O'Brien was named best clubman, Maxwell and Shaw shared the best player in finals award and John Anthony took home the leading goal kicker award.

2009 Copeland Trophy Top 10
Dane Swan, 57 votes (EW Copeland Trophy)
Nick Maxwell, 48 votes (RT Rush Trophy)
Heath Shaw, 43 votes (JJ Joyce Trophy)
Harry O’Brien, 43 votes (JF McHale Trophy)
Alan Didak, 41 votes (Jack Regan Trophy)
Scott Pendlebury, 41 votes
Tarkyn Lockyer, 39 votes
Leon Davis, 38 votes
Simon Prestigiacomo, 37 votes
Shane O’Bree, 36 votes

Joseph Wren Trophy (Best VFL Player): Ryan Cook
Darren Millane Trophy (Best Clubman): Heritier O’Brien
Harry Collier Trophy (Best First Year Player): Dayne Beams
Gordon Coventry Trophy (Leading Goal Kicker): John Anthony, 50 goals
Gavin Brown Award (Leading Desire Indicators): Nick Maxwell
Bob Rose Award (Best Player in Finals): Nick Maxwell and Heath Shaw
Phonse Kyne Trophy (For Services to the Club): Anne Martin

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Collingwood Magpies
   


Swallow wins Syd Barker Medal

October 2nd 2009 13:21
NORTH MELBOURNE midfielder Andrew Swallow has been rewarded for a consistent season with the Syd Barker Medal as the Kangaroos' best-and-fairest.

Swallow played all 22 matches, averaging just under 19 disposals and seven tackles per game.

The 22-year-old polled votes in all but one of those games to win the award with 487 votes.

His best performance came in the upset win over St Kilda in round 21 when he had 33 possessions, eight marks, eight tackles and kicked a goal.

Defender Scott Thompson (477) finished in second place, one vote ahaed of Brady Rawlings while utility Drew Petrie (469) and Josh Gibson (452) rounded out the top five.

Syd Barker Medal Top 10
Andrew Swallow 487
Scott Thompson 477
Brady Rawlings 476
Drew Petrie 469
Josh Gibson 452
Hamish McIntosh 448
Scott McMahon 418
Michael Firrito 406
Adam Simpson 358
Leigh Harding 337

Jason McCartney Jumper Award: Scott Thompson
Rennie Johnston Cheer Squad Determination Award: Adam Simpson
Northerners Award: Scott Thompson
Vice President's Rookie of the Year Award: Scott Thompson
Jack 'Skull' Castle Trainers and Staff Encouragement Award: Ben Warren
Harold Henderson Best Clubman Award: Shannon Watt

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Kangaroos
   


Caracella joins Cats

October 2nd 2009 07:52
BLAKE Caracella has quit Collingwood to join Geelong's coaching panel.

Caracella has spent the past three seasons with the Magpies as an assistant coach.

In a 10-year playing career with Essendon, Brisbane and the Pies, the 32-year-old booted 218 goals in 187 games and played in premierships with the Bombers in 2000 and the Lions in 2003.

Caracella has strong connections with the Cats' coaching staff - in his first two seasons with the Bombers – 1997 and 1998 – Geelong coach Mark Thompson was an assistant to Kevin Sheedy.

He was also a premiership teammate of Cats assistant coach Nigel Lappin at Brisbane.

Geelong football operations manager Neil Balme said the club was thrilled to have secured the services of Caracella.

"Blake has shown himself to be an innovative and progressive thinker and we feel he will work well with our players and coaches," Balme said.

"He has experience working and playing under some of the AFL's best coaches and we are excited about what he will bring to our club."
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Geelong Cats
   


Stynes has three tumours

October 2nd 2009 06:12
JIM Stynes' battle with cancer has taken a turn for the worst with the former Melbourne president revealing that he has three tumours on the brain.

In the early hours of Wednesday morning Stynes revealed via the social networking site Twitter the discovery of a 'little tumour on brain' but in a tweet published on Thursday night indicated his condition was more serious than first thought.

"Pushed it too far on cycle.In hospital.Feeling better.3 tumours in brain.Fight cont.Treatm.,looks pos.Specialist 2morrow.Big24hrs!Thx2all," Stynes wrote.

The 43-year-old was initially diagnosed with a malignant lump on his back and has twice undergone surgery to remover cancerous tissue since stepping down as president in July.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Melbourne Demons
   


Ablett, Enright share Carji Greeves Medal

October 2nd 2009 00:58
BROWNLOW Medallist Gary Ablett and All-Australian defender Corey Enright have shared the Carji Greeves Medal as Geelong's best-and-fairest.

Ablett missed three games throughout the season but finished with 740 votes - the same number as Enright who played all 25 matches.

Enright led by one vote heading into last Saturday's grand final where Ablett gathered 30 votes while Enright received 29.

It is the first time in the club's history there has been a tie for the award.

Ablett has now claimed the top gong on two occasions - both won in premiership years while this is Enright's first best-and-fairest award.

James Bartel finished third with 629 votes, young gun Joel Selwood was fourth (617) while Norm Smith medallist Paul Chapman (610) rounded out the top five.

Ablett was also awarded life membership of the club along with Bartel, two-time premiership-winning coach Mark Thompson, defender David Wojcinski, physiotherapist Nick Ames and Rex Gorell.

In other awards, Enright won the coach's award, Tom Gillies was named best first-year player, Brad Ottens was voted best clubman, Mathew Stokes was the community champion and Cameron Mooney won the goal kicking award with 46 goals.

Best & fairest – top 10
Gary Ablett & Corey Enright 740
Jimmy Bartel 629
Joel Selwood 617
Paul Chapman 610
Matthew Scarlett 585
Joel Corey 546
Andrew Mackie 443
Cameron Ling 411
Steve Johnson 408

Other award winners:
Best first-year player: Tom Gillies
Best clubman: Brad Ottens
Coach’s award: Corey Enright
Leading goal kicker: Cameron Mooney
Community champion: Mathew Stokes
VFL best & fairest: James Podsiadly

Life membership
Gary Ablett
Nick Ames
James Bartel
Rex Gorell
Mark Thompson
David Wojcinski

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Geelong Cats
   


Stynes has brain tumour

October 1st 2009 11:02
MELBOURNE legend Jim Stynes has a small brain tumour.

Stynes revealed his latest health concern via the social networking site Twitter.

"Small bump on recover, little tumour on brain, will know soon,'' Stynes wrote.

"Good news PETscan all clean on rest body. great support everyone xox''.

The 43-year-old temporarily stepped down from his role as Demons president in July after being diagnosed with cancer.

He underwent surgery in July and again in September after two new tumours were discovered.

The operation was deemed a success and Stynes' recovery was reported to be progressing well.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Melbourne Demons
   


Cats stars plea for return of jumpers

October 1st 2009 07:46
GEELONG premiership stars Joel Selwood and James Bartel have made a public plea for the return of their grand final jumpers.

The midfielders packed their guernseys away after the win over St Kilda last Saturday but when they returned to the club on Tuesday to pick up their bags the jumpers were nowhere to be seen.

Selwood said at this stage they would not be involving police.

"We just want to get them back and if we can do it in the right way then hopefully it's just a misunderstanding and someone has picked them up and can bring them back to us safely," Selwood said.

"We just hope that the person has a change of heart and just gets it back to the football club or the police station in Geelong anyway they want and at the moment we're happy not to press charges … we just want them back and if the police has to get involved later on down the track then we'll look at doing that."

Bartel said the loss of his premiership jumper hadn't taken any gloss off the club's second flag in three years and that he was hopeful the culprit would do the 'right thing'.

"Obviously disappointing more than anything … not losing sleep about it but hopefully someone has a turn of heart. You can't sell it because people will pick up on it and you'd be pretty gutsy to hang it on your wall," Bartel said.

"Hopefully they do the right thing and just hand it back."

"It's pretty personal and pretty special."


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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Geelong Cats
   


McKenna to coach Gold Coast in AFL

October 1st 2009 04:16
GUY McKenna will coach the Gold Coast Football Club in its first two seasons in the AFL after being given a two-year contract extension.

McKenna, who led the Gold Coast side to a place in the Under-18 TAC Cup finals this year, will guide the club through its stint in the VFL in 2010 then into 2011 when it becomes the AFL's 17th team.

The 40-year-old played 267 games and won two premierships with West Coast before retiring in 2000.

He spent two seasons at the Eagles as an assistant coach before working under Collingwood coach Mick Malthouse for five years.

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Power duo re-sign

October 1st 2009 01:14
PORT ADELAIDE forward Nick Salter and midfielder Jason Davenport have signed new deals with the Power but the lengths of their contracts have not been revealed.

Salter, 22, played five games and kicked nine goals in the second half of this season, adding to the two matches he played in his 2008 rookie year.

Davenport, 24, was recruited by the Power from Geelong with pick 78 in last year's national draft and made 10 appearances in his debut season.

Port football operations manager Peter Rohde said Salter has the potential to be a permanent key forward.

"Nick Salter is a young key forward who has improved tremendously in his two years with us and is already a bit of a crowd favourite," Rohde said.

"He missed a lot of football with a knee injury early in the season, but it's a tribute to his improved work rate and professionalism that he was able to work his way back and demand AFL selection after some terrific performances in the SANFL."

"With another pre-season under his belt we see Nick can provide a permanent forward option for us."

Rohde said Davenport showed what a valuable player he could be in his performance against West Coast in round 16 which earned him three Brownlow medal votes.

"Jason has shown he has what it takes to play at the AFL level," Rohde said.

"He has great pace and a terrific attitude, as well as a keen goal sense. We think Jason can become an important part of our developing midfield."

Davenport, who won the Geelong VFL best-and-fairest award last year, averaged 17 disposals and more than four tackles in his 10 games for the Power in 2009.

Salter and Davenport take to 12 the number of un-contracted players re-signed by Port Adelaide in the last few months. They join Chad Cornes, Troy Chaplin, Alipate Carlile, David Rodan, Jacob Surjan, Warren Tredrea, Danyle Pearce, Michael Pettigrew, Tom Logan and Matthew Lobbe.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Port Adelaide Power
   


Watson claims first Crichton Medal

October 1st 2009 00:36
ESSENDON midfielder Jobe Watson has claimed his first Crichton Medal at the Crown Palladium on Wednesday night.

Watson polled 335 votes to win the best-and-fairest award ahead of veteran defender Dustin Fletcher (289) and midfielder Brent Stanton (284).

The 24-year-old joins an illustrious group of winners that includes James Hird, Gary O'Donnell and Watson's father Tim who won the award four times in the 1980s.

Watson missed just the one game this season - the round 14 clash against Collingwood due to an ankle problem - and averaged 24.7 possessions per match.

His consistency was reflected in the fact that he polled in 15 of his 21 games.

Watson's best performance came in round 20 when he racked up 37 disposals, laid eight tackles and kicked one goal in the Bombers' upset win over St Kilda at Etihad Stadium.

Taken under the father-son rule with pick 40 in the 2002 national draft, Watson has played 94 games and kicked 34 goals.

In other awards, promising defender Tayte Pears was named rising star, Patrick Ryder won the most courageous award and claimed the Bill Hutchison Award for making a signifcant contribution to the club’s community activities, Ricky Dyson won the most improved award while wingman Jason Winderlich was recognised for striving for excellence.

Meanwhile, the club announced that its goal-kicking award would be named after recently retired skipper Matthew Lloyd who won the gong for the 12th time with 35 goals in 2009.

2009 Crichton medal voting:

1. Jobe Watson – 335
2. Dustin Fletcher – 289
3. Brent Stanton – 284
4. Patrick Ryder – 223
5. Jason Winderlich – 220
6. Tayte Pears – 204
7. Ricky Dyson – 201
8. Angus Monfries – 197
9. Adam McPhee – 192
10. Henry Slattery – 186
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Essendon Bombers
   


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