Heart
The Official magazine of the Melbourne Football Club
season guide 2012
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contents
Heart
SEASON GUIDE 2 0 1 2
Contents
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2 From The President
New President Don McLardy looks to the season ahead
3 From The CEO
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Cameron Schwab takes us inside the Club and plans for the future
5 From the Coach
Mark Neeld shares his excitement and sense of anticipation for Season 2012
6 Season Preview We look at where the team is and what the plans are heading into Round One
8 The Captains
Jack Grimes and Jack Trengove step into the limelight in their new roles as co-captains
10 David Misson Melbourne’s new High
16 Keep in touch with the Club Phone: (03) 9652 1111 Mail: PO Box 254 East Melbourne, Victoria 3002 Email: info@melbournefc.com.au Web: melbournefc.com.au Facebook: facebook.com/melbournefc Twitter: twitter.com/melbournefc Make sure we have your current email address to receive weekly news updates and special offers from the Club Editors: Matt Burgan, Lynda Carroll, Martin Cox, Chelsea Giansiracusa, Ellie McKenzie, Jennifer Watt
Performance Manager is taking the team to unfamiliar territory every day
Contributors: Glenn Balmforth, Lucy Bell, Matt Burgan, Lynda Carroll, Martin Cox, Ryan Larkin, Don McLardy, Ellie McKenzie, Mark Neeld, Peter Ryan, Cameron Schwab Photography: AFL Photos, Lynda Carroll, Sam D’Agostino, Matthew Goodrope, Ellie McKenzie, MFC Staff Design and Production: Spike Creative – Ph: (03) 9427 9500 Printing: Highway Press – www.highwaypress.com.au
14 The Two Of Us
From Tasmania to the MCG, Colin Garland and Glenn Balmforth have shared a lifetime’s friendship
16 The Big Recruit Guest author Peter Ryan
20 Fixtures and Events What’s happening and where – be involved in Club activities and get to games throughout the year
22 Player Profiles The lineup of who’s who, from co-captains to our newly arrived rookies
38 Why Casey? Become acquainted with this
special part of our heartland, and find out what’s going on in Casey
41 Demon Kids Find out what’s happening to keep the littlest red and blue fans in the action in 2012
42 Melbourne Business Community
Forging links and networks, there’s something for everyone at www.melbournebusinesscommunity.com.au
43 Demon Shop Take advantage of unique guernsey offers and stock up with 2012 merchandise
44 Top Ten
This time it’s over to Mark Jamar, as ‘Russian’ shares his Top Ten things with us
introduces us to Mitch Clark, the ruckman who has made the leap from newcomer to leadership group in rapid time
Melbourne Football Club Board Of Directors, Season 2012 President: Don McLardy Vice Presidents: Guy Jalland, Peter Spargo Directors: Stuart Grimshaw, Karen Hayes, Greg Healy, Russel Howcroft, David Thurin, John Trotter
Heartbeat is published twice a year. No part of this publication shall be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise).
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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FROM THE president
From the President – Don McLardy As we enter Season 2012, we head into an era of great change mixed with hard won stability. Many new people are taking their place at the Melbourne Football Club, and familiar faces are appearing in new roles.
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t is an interesting time, and for some it may be tinged with trepidation. I am one of these people taking on a new role, and I share the sense of anticipation that is an exciting part of being involved in an AFL club. I also give my sincere thanks to all those who have passed on their good wishes to me. With the pre-season in full flight, our players have been training with the same dedication and persistence that typifies their new coach, we have two fine young men in Jack Trengove and Jack Grimes as our co-captains, and we are on track for some significant achievements off the playing arena as well as on. Of course, as we head into the season, we are missing the day-to-day presence of Jim Stynes, whose Presidency has been such a huge part of the Melbourne Football Club and has given it great strength over the past four years. Rest assured, Jim retains his involvement and love
of the Club, and while he has stepped down, he has certainly not stepped away. The positive that can be taken from his relinquishing of the Presidential role is that Jim does so feeling very confident that the Club is in a strong position, and poised for success. With a healthy balance sheet, a strong and stable board and administration, as well as the newly established coaching and football staff line up, it is now time for Jim to take time for himself and his family. Without question or exception, we are all thinking of Jim, Sam and their children, and we are still working to the ideals and ambitions that brought us all together. Along with the others who have worked closely with Jim over the past years, I have felt privileged to work so closely with someone who really is a legend - a man of high principles, community minded, possessing great business acumen, and an inspiring leader
We have two clear aims – win our 13th premiership, and build a sustainable business model for our club. 2
and orator. The Melbourne Football Club is indeed fortunate to call him one of our own. We are also very pleased to welcome another favourite son back to the Board, with the appointment of Greg Healy. Himself a young captain, he brings sound business acumen to the Club from his role with Quiksilver, as well as a long forged knowledge and many connections with the Melbourne Football Club community. Greg will have a focus on our football department, and this basically completes the significant overhaul that commenced late last year. We welcome him, and look forward to his contribution.
On a wider scale, the Board of the Melbourne Football Club, along with all our staff, are committed to continual improvement in all areas in 2012. We have two clear aims – win our 13th premiership, and build a sustainable business model for our club. There is a sound strategy and business plan in place, and everyone at the Club knows their part in it. For your part, we look forward to your ongoing support by buying a membership, supporting us wherever and whenever we play, and helping us continue to build a club we can all be proud of. I look forward to seeing you during the season.
FROM THE ceo
From the CEO – Cameron Schwab The Melbourne Football Club has aligned its future to a plan. Like most plans, its success will be measured in terms of the achievement of its goals and objectives, and ultimately the scoreboard will be our judge.
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he plan is titled the Red and Blueprint, and we have entered the second of a four phase process, which we have called ‘In the Game”. The metaphor relates to the game itself – as the time clock ticks towards half time, we want to know we’re a chance – we are still in the game. The fundamentals of strategic planning are transferable between sport and business; in fact, business uses many sport metaphors when describing its challenges, successes and failures. But there are differences. Our plan recognises these differences – and has selected words that describe and define these. All Melbourne people will have their own take on these words, and all are part of their personal relationship with the Club. They are: Identity We often say that the love of the Melbourne Football Club is the single constant in a person’s life. Once committed, it rarely changes – for better or for worse – and in the words of Norm Smith, “I am Melbourne”. This deserves deep respect. Folklore The Club builds on its own folklore. From Tom Wills and HCA Harrison penning the rules, Ron
Barassi Senior and Junior, Jim Stynes arriving from Ireland – the stories are many and deep. Our emblem is an effort to capture this narrative – our folklore. Heroes Everybody needs a hero – and our club has many. They have shaped our club, and shaped the game, and as Robbie Flower did for a generation of Melbourne supporters, gave us a reason to come to the football. Moments The game is about moments – those that we reflect upon that defined matches, seasons and careers. It is also the promise of the future as the ball enters the area of a player you know is capable of producing something memorable – the moments that keep us coming back for more.
Flags There have been twelve, and there have been twelve for a very long time. The twelve gold stars are in an unfinished circle on the back of the players’ jumpers, each with their own story, but with the absolute and uncompromising expectation that our purpose is to add more gold stars – and the circle will always remain incomplete. Timeless Our club is one continuum which had its origin at the birth of the game. We are the only major sporting club in the world still playing the game we created, and while it is convenient to separate our 150-plus years into eras and judge them accordingly, our club is timeless. It is our responsibility to build a legacy which does this proud. A game of football is won and lost in milliseconds. The decisions are made by highly talented and highly trained individuals. As a wise man once told me – “The most important person in a Club is the man with the ball in his hand”. It is our responsibility to equip this person as best we can – there is much at stake.
We are the only major sporting club in the world still playing the game we created... our club is timeless. www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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Mark Neeld
We have introduced a new coaching group and a new structure to the players’ weekly schedule.
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he players have been allocated divisions and for each division, there are two coaches and an IT specialist. They have up to four football education training sessions a week. These are taken by their divisional coaches. Within those sessions, the responsibility has been to introduce a new game style and new methods of play for all facets of the game. That will take a long time to ingrain across the whole playing group. It will be an ongoing process. I’ve been very pleased with the way that the divisional coaches and the playing group have taken on the new systems and structures. Players and coaches have also adjusted their life to have a completely different working week. I’ve seen a really strong work ethic throughout the pre-season from the playing group as a whole. They’ve been putting their best effort forward for their supporter base for the season. It is pre-season in all football clubs, and in all sporting codes, this is known as ‘the season of hope’.
We can assure you that we’ve been putting our best efforts to educate the players and to bring their fitness and strength levels and game understanding up to a level where we can compete with the other AFL clubs. We are certainly aware that a number of challenges face us shortly. And we’re preparing for those. As soon as we encounter opposition, that will give us more areas to work on. As a coaching group working for the first time together, we are looking forward to the experiences that are going to occur. And we are looking forward to all the challenges that we can see - and the ones that we can’t see. From a non-playing perspective, it’s a new football structure. I’ve enjoyed working with Neil Craig (director of sports performance) and Josh Mahoney (football manager) closely. I’m learning all the time from Neil’s experiences. He is giving direction to the entire football department, along with Josh. They have both been outstanding.
It’s been a tough program for the players… It’s been arduous, but our competition demands that you need to be at an extremely high level in all areas.
To work with someone of the calibre of David Misson has also been good for me. I’ve enjoyed seeing the way David puts together the strength and conditioning program. I’ve also enjoyed hearing his thoughts and the way he has put together the new medical and rehabilitation program. It’s been a tough program for the players at times. It’s been arduous, but our competition demands that you need to be at an extremely high level in all areas. David can be well pleased with what he’s had the players doing, and the efforts and results that he’s achieved. We viewed the NAB Cup series as extremely important, and we like the format. It is part of the introduction to the season, and the Melbourne Football Club fully supports it. We have used the NAB Cup series on a number of different levels. On one level, we have used it to get used to coaching with one another. Players have also got an understanding of what it’s like on a game day with a new coaching staff. They’ve seen the way that I am, and the way that I address them. They have also seen what I have touched on during the game. It’s also been extremely advantageous to work with the sports science group under David. Everything is different – from the warm up activities, to the arrival time, to the meeting length. It’s also been great to see so many Melbourne supporters – old and young – getting out there and having a look at us in our infancy stage as a group. Within the coaches’ box, we’ve been trialling different stats systems and computer systems. There have been different people in charge of that. We’ve used this as a four-week block to prepare us for the season against Brisbane Lions at the MCG on 31 March. We can’t wait to get our teeth into the season.
F R O M T H E C OA C H
The biggest challenge that we’re facing is to see how we can mould a group of players into playing under the direction of a new coaching group. How long that will take? It’s extremely difficult to put time frames on it. But we are using every available moment. In an AFL environment, time is at a premium, and that point has been impressed upon the coaching and playing group. I’m going to enjoy sitting back and watching the progress of the players and our entire club. Our aim is to be a competitive outfit each week of the AFL season. And I am fully aware that there will be days when we mightn’t go as well as we should, and there will be days where we might exceed expectations. That’s part of the AFL landscape. We’ll see how we deal with those situations as they arise.
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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SEASON 2012
n Jones , ar, Natha Mark Jam , e way, y th le d w a ra le F d 12: James lin Garlan 0 o 2 C tains. p p d u a n a ro -c ip G rtram front as co p Leadersh u , Clint Ba e rk ov la g C ren Mitch nd Jack T Grimes a with Jack
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Season Pre
view: The Road To Success Words Matt Burgan
Senior coach Mark Neeld and melbournefc.com.au’s Matt Burgan look at the Demons’ 2012 playing list.
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n 2011, Melbourne had the second youngest list in the league behind the inaugural Gold Coast. In terms of total matches, the demons had the third least inexperienced squad in the AFL. This year, the Demons are ranked fifth youngest and 14th out of 18 clubs in games experience. It’s a timely reminder of exactly where the list fits in the competition. And when you consider last year’s finalists represent eight of the top nine most experienced lists this year – in terms of matches played – it’s reinforces the saying ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’. “In terms of games experience, we’re a young group that at the moment is showing plenty of potential and a strong work ethic to compete well at AFL level,” new Melbourne coach Mark Neeld said. “There are a few players who could play their 100th game in 2012, which would strengthen the top end.
“In saying that we’ll certainly be looking to get a lot more games into our young players. About 25 per cent of the squad is now in a position where they can start to develop their AFL footy, based on the number of games and pre-seasons completed. “We’re at a strong point, where development can occur reasonably swiftly over the next few years.” It’s also worth noting some key facts about Melbourne’s list in 2012, which include: • Eight players who have played 100 matches or more, meaning 38 have played fewer than 100 games •
21 players – almost half of the list – have played 25 matches or fewer
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Nine players yet to make their AFL debut
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The Demons have 12 players who have played one to 25 matches
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30 players have played 50 matches or fewer
To explain to our supporters, it would be like someone coming to your job and completely altering your daily timetable. Every single thing is done in a different format.
Statistics and trends can be bucked, but remaining realistic and steadfast to the plan is pivotal in Melbourne’s quest for a thirteenth premiership. And Neeld is acutely aware of this. For all the qualities that Neeld brings, realism is at the forefront. In fact, he has truckloads of it. Estimating how many matches Melbourne will win and where it finishes in 2012 is not part of Neeld’s make-up either. “I’m going to answer that question that will continually come up – our expectations [for 2012] are that as a coaching group and playing group, we want to adapt to and adopt a new playing style as quickly as we possibly can and with as much quality as we possibly can,” he said. “I am unable to put a time frame on [when] that [will happen]. “That is our immediate challenge and that’s what we’re focusing our efforts into.” Neeld adds that he won’t know exactly where the list is at until the season starts. “I’m not sure is the clear answer. I’m yet to formulate that in my own mind,” he said. “What I’ve been doing is certainly being buried in everything Melbourne and explaining every single thing that’s Melbourne. “Now our test will come when we stand up and start playing opposition. I believe we’re tracking well, but reality says we’ve got to start playing some opposition before we might need to adjust our ideas or do a bit more of this or a bit less of something else. “But until we play against the opposition and see if there is any progress, right now, they’re just my thoughts.”
However, Neeld has seen his squad evolve since it started pre-season on 31 October last year. “There was a lot of apprehension from the group and that is natural, when a new coach comes into a sporting organisation,” he said. “There was a lot of adjusting, because everything is new and we have timetabled their week differently – [for example we are] doing weights at a different time. “To explain to our supporters, it would be like someone coming to your job and completely altering your daily timetable. Every single thing is done in a different format, so they’ve had some adjusting to do.” Neeld said expectations and priorities have also shifted for the players. “We’ve been doing a lot of meetings – short, sharp and concise meetings. We’ve been drip feeding the new player group with our strategies for 2012 and beyond,” he said. “We’ve noticed over that period of time that the players are adjusting to what their week will look like and they’ve adjusted to the different vocabulary that the coaches and sports science use. At the same time, adjusting has been done by the staff. “I’ve noticed the players now appear to be quite comfortable with the demands of their timetable. And they have shown a great resilience to continually back up to what’s been a rigorous pre-season program.” Neeld, along with the rest of the Melbourne faithful, will be hoping that pays dividends this year and beyond.
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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L eading T he W a y
The Captains Words Matt Burgan and Lynda Carroll
When Jack Grimes came to the Melbourne Football Club via pick No. 14 in the 2007 National Draft, he did so with the added joy of already being a Melbourne supporter. His eyes lit up as he spoke of being a spectator, and of that allegiance being transformed into playing for the Club. By 2011, despite injuries halting his on-field progress, Grimes was in the Club’s leadership group for the first time, and was the youngest member of that assembly.
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hen Jack Trengove arrived at the Club, he was the No. 2 selection in the 2009 National Draft, a young South Australian of whom it was said in AFL 2010, ‘he looks a future leader. Will wear the No. 9 of David Neitz, Melbourne’s recordbreaking skipper.’ Now, the pair looks set to add not only an extra and unique chapter to the Melbourne Football Club story, but also to their own stories. They are co-captains – a first for the Club. With just 32 games to his name, Grimes is one of the least experienced leaders in pure game totals in recent history. Trengove has 37 games to his credit – and will be the youngest ever season appointed V/AFL captain. He will be 20 years and 211 days old when he lines up in Round One against Brisbane Lions.
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This achievement puts Trengove in some amazing company, ahead of North Melbourne legend David Dench, who was just 20 years and 221 days old when he captained the Kangaroos in 1972. The only other 20 year-old to lead their club on a season appointed basis was triple Brownlow Medallist, Haydn Bunton, who took on the Fitzroy captaincy for 1932, but relinquished the role after a few games. Of course, this does not mean that Grimes is a senior citizen. At 22, he is just off the list for very junior captains. He is, in fact, the same age as new director Greg Healy was when he succeeded to the captaincy after Robert Flower’s retirement in 1987, before leading the team to a Grand Final berth in 1988. Much has been made of the youthful nature of the captaincy at Melbourne, and of the shape of the leadership group. As
well as Trengove and Grimes, it consists of newcomer Mitch Clark, along with Clint Bartram, Colin Garland, Nathan Jones, James Frawley and Mark Jamar. Announced by new coach Mark Neeld, it’s a fresh look all round, complemented by experience and a united will to succeed. As signalled by many, the special qualities of the co-captains have already shone through, from junior days to this appointment. As Colin Garland said of Trengove, ‘he’s always had that aura about him’. South Australia’s MVP at the 2009 NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, and named All Australian, Trengove also held captaincy roles when attending Prince Alfred College. Since that time, he has made an impact at Melbourne, with his progress highlighted by a Rising Star nomination in 2010, and fifth placing in the Best and Fairest in 2011.
Grimes, meanwhile, served his captaincy apprenticeship with the Northern Knights in the TAC Cup, and before that, was a junior with northern suburbs side, Hurstbridge. Like Trengove, he received All Australian honours, impressing when representing Vic Metro in the 2007 NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, and in a forecast of his current role, was recognised with the Club’s Leadership Award in 2011. Individual honours aside, both captains have impressed on a deeper level, with their maturity and sense of empathy standing them in good stead. With Grimes having persevered through back, hip and foot injuries, and Trengove having come to the Club at one of its lowest ebb, the pair is well set to quote each other, as Grimes indeed did following the announcement of their appointment. ‘Jack Trengove talked about care, and I think that’s what we’ll be all about: care for our teammates and care for the Club.’ While not joined at the hip by any means, they are undoubtedly on the same wavelength. For coach Mark Neeld, this dual appointment marks the most tangible impact he has made on the Club since his arrival, and while it has been a difficult one in some respects, particularly with the consideration of Brad Green relinquishing the captaincy, and Aaron Davey, Jared Rivers and Brent Moloney being relieved of their leadership group positions, all still have a hugely valuable role to play. The appointments of Trengove and Grimes comes after nearly five months of consideration, and, as Neeld says, the pair ‘have become captains by leading by example.’ When he arrived, Neeld also stated that he had ‘taken over a blank canvas’. Now, bit by bit, with Trengove, Grimes and their teammates as central figures, he is starting to fill in what could become a red and blue masterpiece.
jack g r i m e s & jack t r e n g o v e
While not joined at the hip by any means, they are undoubtedly on the same wavelength. – Mark Neeld
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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E L I T E PER F OR M AN C E M ANAGER
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David
Misson – the quest begins Words Lynda Carroll
When he wakes up every morning, the Melbourne Football Club’s new Elite Performance Manager faces the day with a sense of anticipation, knowing that he is a major key to building the on-field future of the Club. ‘I never get up in the morning and say ‘Oh no, I’ve got to go to work this morning.’ It’s always exciting to get to, and dealing with athletes keeps you young, I reckon’, says David Misson.
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ith a phenomenal reputation for his work in the sporting industry, Misson’s background has served him well in building the strength of both individuals and teams to optimum level. ‘I did a lot of sports at school, but when I left, I specialised in track and field – 400 metre hurdles – so that just gave me a really good base, going through the training there, and then I eventually studied and became a track and field coach as well.’ This foundation set Misson up for diversity, while dealing with the similarities that inevitably emerge across all sports. When he looks back at his track and field beginnings, he can link them to the AFL players who now dominate his daily life. ‘You’re obviously dealing with the pure attributes of speed and endurance, which these guys all need, so if I was to look at one thing that has enabled me to do what I’ve done in AFL, it would be having that background.’
Having been involved in sports ranging from netball to rugby, seeing and being part of everything from the Australian cricket team’s World Cup win in 1999 to the Sydney Swans’ brilliant premiership in 2005, Misson is well aware of the variables involved in each sport. This serves him well in the team environment of the AFL, where individuals click and link together to make a functioning combination. Taking a very different example, Misson illustrates his theory when he says, ‘You get a tennis player, and you have a look at the dimensions of a tennis court and the number of short sprints they have to produce, and there’s a massive endurance aspect to it as well. So, I’m just putting all the components out there, and looking at them individually and going ‘OK, how am I going to train, and how am I going to make this person better in all these different areas?’
The Melbourne team has presented Misson with a brand new challenge in achieving this betterment of performance, and he is candid about what he is dealing with heading into Season 2012. ‘I didn’t expect a lot, to be honest – I didn’t watch them play a lot, obviously read a bit about it in the media, before I contemplated the job and did a bit of research and had a look at their fourth quarters. They were the worst fourth quarter team in the competition, so I thought I’d probably have a fair bit of work to do, and they would have a lot of work to do. I wasn’t wrong.’
While this may sound bleak at first read, Misson takes his situation as a positive, along with the team sharing the challenge with him. They range from Dan Bates, the new doctor who originally hails from North Melbourne, to Bassin Moses, a ten year GP completing a sports physician’s course, through to Rob Jackson – Misson’s own offsider in his St Kilda days, who is heading up the strength and rehabilitation programs – alongside the likes of Gary Nicholls, formerly physiotherapist at Collingwood, and a range of other existing and new staff. According to Misson, ‘the mix of people is working really well. We’re pretty much a team within a team, starting to learn a bit more about each other, and the expectations of the coaching staff.’ The group shares Misson’s sense of anticipation, and even leading into Christmas, the common sentiment was ‘There’s so much upside in this place – there’s so much that we can work with, that we can change and improve.’
The Melbourne team has presented Misson with a brand new challenge in achieving this betterment of performance. www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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E L I T E PER F OR M AN C E M ANAGER has improved a lot. Guys who were what I would consider below AFL standard from a running point of view have now pushed up. We haven’t got too many guys who I’d consider to be below standard at the moment.’ The preparation has been thorough, and the season awaits. Once the season starts, Misson’s role steadily switches gears. ‘When we hit in season mode and start playing games, it’s about managing game time in the pre-season,
the Club – structure with staff, structure with expectations, and then obviously our game plan as well.’ Even where individual requirements are concerned, the plan has been carefully laid as part of the overall structural setup. As Misson explains, ‘When you have young kids who need a lot of everything, it’s about prioritising, and it means different things for different players. There might be a kid who really needs to work
There has been a huge amount of work undertaken, and with that, there is a real buzz of excitement at the progress made.
Christmas time was the marker for progress and change, as Misson explains. ‘We had a big eight weeks pre-Christmas – we did a lot of work, and they’re probably ahead of where we thought they would be. What happens typically after Christmas is that the fitness guys hand the baby over to the coaches, and then it becomes a real footy focus, preparing for the NAB Cup coming up, making sure they consolidate the game plan, so there’s a really strong football focus in our training sessions.’
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There has been a huge amount of work undertaken, and with that, there is a real buzz of excitement at the progress made. Giving a glimpse into the nuts and bolts of the playing list, Misson reveals, ‘We have a core group of what I’d consider elite runners, and luckily a lot of them are our frontline midfielders, such as Trengove, Jones, Bail, Tom McDonald, Dan Nicholson, Cale Morton – James Magner – who we got on the rookie list – they are elite runners, and what’s been good is that our bottom half
determining how much game time players should play in that NAB Cup period, having a look at how players have recovered after matches, and then what sort of training load they should have during the week, between games.’ This is the move into the season proper, and during actual matches, Misson adds yet another dimension to the on-field action. ‘On game day for me, it’s about being the coach’s eyes with regards to rotations. We’re going to be a high rotation team, and our rotation policy is pretty structured, so on game day it’s a matter of being on the bench, and making sure that that’s going to plan.’ That last word is a telling one, and a common belief held by new coach Mark Neeld and Misson is in planning and structure, which applies from AAMI Park to Casey and every red and blue inch in between. ‘I like structure, and I think the players like structure as well’, Misson says. ‘That’s a real strength that Mark’s brought to
in the weights room, so we might sacrifice a bit of his running, or sacrifice a bit of his footy stuff to make sure that priority of strength and building a body takes precedence. To me, that’s about the coaching staff and the conditioning staff and the medical staff communicating well, and everyone knowing exactly what is required of that player, and putting a plan into place.’ This will not only be what happens for the senior team, but also for those Melbourne listed players taking their place at Casey, who will be receiving dedicated attention. ‘We’ll keep a pretty close eye on what’s going on down there, and make sure that we’ve got the staff in place to provide them with the structure that they’re used to.’ With this, the foundation has been laid, and Misson is one of the many keenly awaiting Round One. ‘I’m looking forward to seeing all the hard work come together in the heat of battle.’ Now it really is time for the games to begin.
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the two o f u s
Colin Garland and Glenn Balmforth and Colin Garland have been friends from childhood, growing up together in Tasmania, before both became associated with the Melbourne Football Club – one as player, one as the Club’s Community Coordinator. Here, they share their story with Ellie McKenzie. Col: So - coming from Tassie, Glenn, how did you get your job, considering it’s pretty competitive to secure a job at a footy club? Glenn: I left college and got a traineeship with the Hawthorn Football Club, which set me up with the experience I needed to take on a role like Community Coordinator. I had an interview with Debbie Lee, and was lucky enough to get the role. I’m sure there may have been a good word or two put in by yourself there, Col? Glenn: Colin, you reached the 50 game milestone last year. What did that mean to you? What are your future goals? Col: My next goal isn’t to get to 100 or 200 games - it’s to get some on field success. Even if I only play 20 more games, it would just be good to be part of a group that’s a successful side. I feel that, under Neeldy, we’re going to get there. Col: Glenn, you’ve been on holidays while we’ve been sweating it out on the track. How’s the preparation in the Community department? Glenn: Preparations are coming along nicely. A highlight is gearing up for a big year in Read Like a Demon, which you and Cale Morton
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are the ambassadors for. We’re expanding it across Australia, so it’s keeping us nice and busy! Glenn: Under the new coaching staff, Col, how have you adjusted? Has your personal preparation changed? Col: There is a degree of trepidation with a new coach, as you don’t know what to expect. The new coaches have all been really great. Neeldy has given everyone an opportunity to impress him, and the slate’s been clean. Col: Glenn, you work under Debbie Lee, who is one of the best Community people in the competition, and a great footballer herself. Can you give us a background on your football career, and are you better than Debbie? The rumour is she has taken you for a few one-onones and torn you apart. Glenn: I played junior footy, and was lucky enough to play against the great Colin Garland when he was at Sandy Bay and North Hobart. Now I’m over here playing for St Pauls East Bentleigh. As you said, we’ve had some one-on-one sessions in regard to kicking technique, so it’s been a good education for me both on the Community front, and from the football point of view.
Col Garland
Glenn Balmforth Col: I played against your primary school in Grade 6, and we had it over your team. There was one particular incident that I remember with you. You assaulted one of our players! Do you want to talk more about that, or are you still scarred? Glenn: It still haunts me to this day. It was an unfortunate incident. I managed to connect with the back of somebody’s head instead of the ball, which was an accident (Col laughs). My mother refused to give me a lift home after the game, because she was too disappointed in me. You’ve been kind enough to remind me of that over the years, mate! (both laugh) Glenn: Speaking of school, Col, do you remember that you were actually the Grade 7 Chess Champion? You beat the State Champion at the time to take the title. Col: That seems like a lifetime ago now! But chess is good, it teaches you to be strategic. It was a great win, it was probably one of my best wins! (laughs) Col: You were known for your pranks in high school. It was you who put the raw sausage in the teacher’s pencil case during cooking, right? Glenn: No, I think that was actually you! But
the blame was passed on to me by one Colin Garland. (both laugh) Glenn: You’re known for making up interesting nicknames for players. You were given the nickname ‘Humphrey’ when you arrived in Melbourne. Can you elaborate on that? Col: Well, obviously Humphrey is known for his silence. People said I didn’t talk but I was keen on observing everyone and knowing my place in the team. Yeah, I come up with nicknames to keep blokes on their toes - otherwise they get too far ahead of themselves, like Good Times Grimes and Veg McKenzie. Glenn: When I first started the job, you were kind enough to let me stay for a few months. You live with your partner Jessie, so who does the cooking in the household, and do you have a signature dish? Col: Jessie and I have an agreement, I do the cleaning because I’m a clean freak, and Jessie does the cooking which fits in beautifully in my opinion. I can do the old burritos or spag bog but I’m very limited in what I can cook - that’s one of the pluses of having a girlfriend! For an extended version of The Two Of Us, visit melbournefc.com.au
Col Garland
The new coaches have all been really great. Neeldy has given everyone an opportunity to impress him, and the slate’s been clean. Glenn Balmforth
Glenn Balmforth
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
15
T H E B I G RE C RUIT
Mitch Clark He’s the big recruit, both in size and status. Peter Ryan caught up with Mitch Clark recently at AAMI Park.
M
itch Clark loped into the coffee shop at AAMI Park. Melbourne polo shirts were buzzing around the lunchtime crowd, like busboys at a packed nightclub. Liam Jurrah slid past with a full plate, handing off a quick wink and grin. A big hello came from where the coach was seated. Clark swatted away the banter and headed straight for an empty bench in the quietest part of the room. He looked to have settled into the Demons’ groove quicker than a bobsledder at the top of his run. Perhaps the reason is because the amiable big man has a clear sense of himself and what he can provide for Melbourne. “I don’t see myself as the big recruit. I just see myself as another guy who is trying to help this footy club go forward,” said Clark. Since his arrival, those in charge have added a bit more to that modest assessment. In February, Mark Neeld declared him a key forward, complementing other marking targets Jurrah and Jack Watts.
16
When he presented the recruit with his revered No.11 to wear, Jim Stynes said Clark is someone who can provide a bit of colour to the group. Colour is an abstract concept but critical to a developing football team. Players such as Clark can add life, confidence, belief and quiet assurance to those around them. Perhaps the greatest indication of Clark’s impact came four months after he agreed to join the Club, when he was named in a new leadership group. “His body language has been outstanding. He’s a leader,” said forward coach Leigh Brown. “He leads from the front. His aggression and his competitive nature will be a real strong point and will add to this footy group.” In keeping with his modest approach however, Clark is keeping away from any outlandish statements. “I just want to contribute consistently on and off the field,” said Clark. “I want to set standards at training. I feel like I’ve fitted into the group quite well.”
While such an answer might be considered the verbal equivalent of an opening bat playing the arc between mid-on and mid-off, it’s true. Brown says since arriving Clark has been humble and respectful, and made earning everyone’s respect his priority. Clark does not waste words. Even on the subject done to death but always present – his decision to join Melbourne after declaring his intention to return from Brisbane to Perth for family reasons – he is very clear. “I’m not too worried about what everyone thinks of me, but I’m the kind of guy who is pretty loyal and wants to do the right thing,” said Clark. “At the end of the day I had to take care of my family and Melbourne’s offer really appealed to me, where the club was going and the role I could play.” The fact that when decision time came he knew the deal between the Brisbane Lions and the Demons could get done was important. He could not gamble with the future. He has a daughter – Sienna – from a previous relationship, and a partner, Samantha. He is also close to his family, mum and dad, Deborah and Dean, two brothers who live in Perth, Ryan and Tyson, and one, Dean, who also lives in Melbourne. Once he had their blessing, he took one more look at the four-year deal and signed with Melbourne. Some suggest recruiting Clark to play in the key forward post is a big gamble. He played 82 games for 61 goals in six seasons at the Brisbane Lions. And his best season was as a ruckman in 2009.
I don’t see myself as the big recruit. I just see myself as another guy who is trying to help this footy club go forward. – Mitch Clark
Mitch is a leader. He leads from the front. His aggression and his competitive nature will be a real strong point. – Leigh Brown
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
17
T H E B I G RE C RUIT While every recruiting decision carries risk, this one has logic on its side. He arrived in Brisbane after a serious bout of meningococcal, battled osteitis pubis and had the small matter of Jonathan Brown and Daniel Bradshaw ahead of him inside 50. So when injuries to teammates created a chance to play in the ruck, he grabbed it. “I really enjoyed that year. I was probably at the stage of my career where I was filling holes a bit in the team and so it was really enjoyable to feel important in the team and cement a spot that I could make my own,” said Clark. It was the year he began to believe he could excel in AFL football. Soon after he resumed in his role of learning the ropes as a key forward, with the added expectation he could play in the ruck.
the older school mode where I prefer to take my opponent on.” That competitive approach suits Melbourne but his progression will be gradual. He had an operation on his knee – to fix a lateral meniscus tear – and has been training with the main group and rehab group at various times during the pre-season. Expectations are high but realistic to start. “He’s still reasonably young and raw,” said Brown. “There is a lot to work with.” The only time Clark’s laconic delivery disappeared was when he spoke about the Demons’ forward mix. He sang the praises of Jurrah, Watts, Jeremy Howe, Aaron Davey and Stefan Martin, making Melbourne sound positively polyphonic inside its forward 50. When Clark described what might lie ahead in that part of the ground he sounds like a
For now, as is his way, Clark’s keeping things simple: “I am really excited about running out with the team.” At Melbourne his role will be clearly defined and his focus narrowed. That suits the 24 yearold better than trying to be an all-rounder. “Personally I like to play in the position for 90 percent of the game. I am probably a bit old fashioned in that way, where I would prefer to be settle in one position and go head to head with my opponent,” said Clark. It’s not that he doesn’t understand versatility equals value but he’s happy to state his considered view. “Some guys might enjoy getting shifted around. As I said I’m probably in
18
performer about to head on stage: “Hopefully we can create a good mix and create a bit of havoc.” Brown is taking the coach’s line: “The output offensively will be dictated by what he does defensively and how much he competes. We just need Mitch Clark to compete in the air and on the ground and play to the best of his ability and hunt the opposition. We look forward to seeing that.” So is every Melbourne supporter. For now, as is his way, Clark’s keeping things simple: “I am really excited about running out with the team.”
Proud fashion partner
fi x tures and e v e n t s
2012 AFL Fixture
2012 VFL Fixture Rd
Opponent
Day Date
Time
Venue
H/A
1
WILLIAMSTOWN
Sat
Mar 24
7:00pm
Casey Fields
Home
2
COBURG
Sat
Mar 31
2:00pm
Mantello Holden Oval
Away
3
FRANKSTON
Sun
Apr 07
2:00pm
Casey Fields
Home
4
BENDIGO
Sun
Apr 15
2:00pm
Casey Fields
Home
5
BYE
Rd
Opponent
Day Date
Time
Venue
H/A
1
BRISBANE LIONS
Sat
Mar 31
1:40pm
MCG
Home
2
WEST COAST EAGLES
Sat
Apr 07
2:40pm
Patersons Stadium
Away
3
RICHMOND
Sat
Apr 14
1:45pm
MCG
Away*
6
NORTH BALLARAT
Sun
Apr 29
2:00pm
Casey Fields
Home
4
WESTERN BULLDOGS
Sun
Apr 22
4:40pm
MCG
Home
7
GEELONG
Sat
May 05
10:00am
Simonds Stadium
Away
5
ST KILDA
Sat
Apr 28
7:40pm
MCG
Home
8
BOX HILL
Sat
May 12
2:00pm
Box Hill City Oval
Away
6
GEELONG CATS
Sat
May 05
1:45pm
Simonds Stadium
Away
9
BYE
7
HAWTHORN
Fri
May 11
7:50pm
MCG
Home
10
NORTHERN BLUES
Sat
Jun 02
2:00pm
Visy Park
Away
8
SYDNEY SWANS
Sat
May 19
4:40pm
SCG
Away
11
COLLINGWOOD
Sat
Jun 09
2:00pm
Casey Fields
Home
12
BYE
13
SANDRINGHAM
Sun
Jun 24
2:00pm
Trevor Barker Beach Oval
Away
14
WERRIBEE
Sat
Jun 30
2:00pm
Avalon Airport Oval
Away
15
PORT MELBOURNE
Sun
Jul 08
2:00pm
Casey Fields
Home
Sun
Jul 15
2:00pm
Windy Hill
Away
STATE GAME
9
CARLTON
Sun
May 27
3:15pm
MCG
Away
10
ESSENDON
Sat
Jun 02
7:40pm
MCG
Away
11
COLLINGWOOD
Mon Jun 11
3:15pm
MCG
Home
12
BYE
16
BENDIGO
13
GWS GIANTS
Sun
Jun 24
3:15pm
MCG
Home
17
BYE
14
BRISBANE LIONS
Sun
Jul 01
3:15pm
Gabba
Away
18
FRANKSTON
Sun
Jul 29
2:00pm
Frankston Oval
Away
15
RICHMOND
Sat
Jul 07
2:10pm
MCG
Home
19
NORTHERN BLUES
Sat
Aug 04
2:00pm
Casey Fields
Home
20
GEELONG
Sun
Aug 12
2:00pm
Casey Fields
Home
16
FREMANTLE
Sat
Jul 14
1:45pm
Etihad Stadium
Home
21
COLLINGWOOD
Sat
Aug 18
1:00pm
Victoria Park
Away
22
SANDRINGHAM
Sat
Aug 25
2:30pm
Casey Fields
Home
17
PORT ADELAIDE
Sat
Jul 21
7:10pm
TIO Stadium
Home
18
NORTH MELBOURNE
Sat
Jul 28
2:10pm
Etihad Stadium
Away
19
GOLD COAST SUNS
Sun
Aug 05
1:10pm
MCG
Home
20
ST KILDA
Sat
Aug 11
1:45pm
MCG
Away
21
GWS GIANTS
Sat
Aug 18
2:10pm
Manuka Oval
Away
22
ADELAIDE CROWS
Sun
Aug 26
4:40pm
MCG
Home
23
FREMANTLE
Tbc TBC
TBC
Patersons Stadium
Away
*Reciprocal Home Game
20
2012 Events Date
Event
Venue
Time
Cost
Jun 5
Norm Smith Oration
Members Dining Room, MCG
Jul 6
MFC Business of Sport Luncheon
Palladium, Crown
12:00pm
$198.00
Oct 1
Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott Dinner
Palladium, Crown
7:00pm
$195.00
$120.00
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Words Lynda Carroll
THE BLAZER TRAIL
With the return of the Melbourne Football Club blazer for the 2012 Commencement Dinner on 14 March, yesteryear forged its way back into current focus.
A
n object of early identity and formality, by 1910 the standard off-field uniform was a coordinated blazer or jacket, hatbands with M.F.C. embroidered on them. These were exciting early days, with the team kitted out in blazers in 1912, travelling to Hobart and singing ‘The Grand Old Flag’ along the way. It was the first time that the song was sung properly, appearing alongside streamlined uniforms and the regular wearing of guernsey numbers during games as the Football Record started publication.
The blazer continued to appear, a signal of formality and celebration over the decades, the story of the Club told with the embroidered monogram and flourishes of premiership years. Now, with the spotlight of the Commencement Dinner, as CEO Cameron Schwab says, ‘it’s part of who we are’. For each player proudly presented with his blazer, this is at the heart of the story. The blazer – it is a grand old tradition, one that has worn well through the generations, and lives on anew today.
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www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
21
SEASON 2012
2012 player profiles Join new coach Mark Neeld as he previews the team for 2012, starting with the co-captains – Jack Trengove and Jack Grimes.
22
DID YOU KNOW? Jack will become the youngest captain in V/AFL history when he co-leads Melbourne in Round One. He will surpass North Melbourne great David Dench and Fitzroy legend Haydn Bunton, who is next in line.
DID YOU KNOW? Jack is just one member of the Grimes family involved in AFL, with his sister working at Essendon, and his brother playing for Richmond.
DID YOU KNOW? Nathan is undoubtedly one of the toughest members of the team, having missed only four games with injury throughout his career.
JACK TRENGOVE
JACK GRIMES
NATHAN jones
9 Date of Birth: 2 September 1991 Height: 185 cm Weight: 85 kg Recruited: Sturt (SA) Drafted: 2009 National Draft (2) Debut: 2010 Games: 37 Goals: 21 Honours: Rising Star Nominee 2010, Fifth Best and Fairest 2011
captain
MARK NEELD: Jack has continually led by example. He has achieved high levels in all areas. Jack has consistently been among the top runners in our conditioning work, and has had a strong presence in our match play and football training. Dream Team: Midfielder, $443,600 2011 Games: 19 Ave: 89.68 Total Points: 1,704 Elite Player Sponsor: Gaudry Family Player Sponsor: Glasic Pty Ltd (Chris Borella) Guernsey Club: Reds, Blues and Demons
16 Date of Birth: 11 May 1989 Height: 187 cm Weight: 85 kg Recruited: Hurstbridge/Northern U18 Drafted: 2007 National Draft (14) Debut: 2008 Games: 32 Goals: 3 Honours: Leadership Award 2011
captain
MARK NEELD: Jack has had a long recovery from a foot injury he sustained in 2011. He has shown remarkable patience and adherence to his rehab program. Once he resumed training with the main group, he surprised us all with how high his fitness levels were compared to his teammates. He is a leader within the group, and has embraced the game style and new expectations. Jack is very determined to stamp himself within the defensive group, and lead through his actions. Dream Team: Defender, $329,400 2011 Games: 6 Ave: 74 Total Points: 444 Player Sponsor: Ruth Fleming and Micky Ashton Guernsey Club: NSW Demons
2
leadership
Date of Birth: 20 January 1988 group Height: 180 cm Weight: 82 kg Recruited: Mt Eliza/Dandenong U18 Drafted: 2005 National Draft (12) Debut: 2006 Games: 114 Goals: 52 Honours: Rising Star Nominee 2006, 2007, Second Best and Fairest 2007, Fifth Best and Fairest 2009 (equal), Fourth Best and Fairest 2011 MARK NEELD: Once again, Nathan has been outstanding in all aspects of our pre-season training. He hasn’t missed a beat, and has completed every session. Nathan has shown strong leadership skills, and has led from the front in all areas. Dream Team: Midfielder, $424,700 2011 Games: 22 Ave: 85.86 Total Points: 1,889 Elite Player Sponsor: Cold Rock Caroline Springs Player Sponsor: Barbara Box and Ryan Hardy Guernsey Club: Haydn Tracy
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
23
SEASON 2012
DID YOU KNOW? Jack was one of a rare band in 2011, playing all 22 games.
DID YOU KNOW? With two Rising Star nominations to his credit – in 2010 and 2011 – Jordan is just the eighth player in AFL history to be nominated for the award in consecutive seasons.
jack watts
Jordan Gysberts
DID YOU KNOW? Clint is a long time vintage car enthusiast, recently taking possession of a true classic – a 1965 red Ford Mustang.
Clint Bartram
3
leadership
Date of Birth: 16 February 1988 group Height: 181 cm Weight: 82 kg Recruited: Ocean Grove/Geelong U18 Drafted: 2004 National Draft (60) Debut: 2006 Games: 95 Goals: 16 Honours: Rising Star Nominee 2006, Best First Year Player 2006, Club Ambassador Award 2008 MARK NEELD: Clint has impressed us all with his work ethic, and his enthusiasm and passion for the Club and his mates. He is a very resilient character who can be relied upon to play his role within our team strategy. He had a minor setback before Christmas, with a slight injury impacting his training for a couple of weeks, but is back training strongly and keen to own a position within the team. He is a very positive guy who brings a great level of energy and leadership to the group. Dream Team: Defender, $316,600 2011 Games: 15 Ave: 64 Total Points: 960 Elite Player Sponsor: Graham and Valerie Peters Player Sponsor: Judy Gillard, Ian Murton, Chris and Donna Turner Guernsey Club: Joe Di Conza
24
4
5
Date of Birth: 26 March 1991 Height: 196 cm Weight: 91 kg Recruited: East Sandringham/Brighton Grammar/ Sandringham U18 Drafted: 2008 National Draft (1) Debut: 2009 Games: 40 Goals: 33
Date of Birth: 11 June 1991 Height: 190 cm Weight: 84 kg Recruited: Yarra Valley Grammar/Eastern U18 Drafted: 2009 National Draft (11) Debut: 2010 Games: 18 Goals: 3 Honours: Rising Star Nominee 2010
MARK NEELD: Jack has completed most sessions and will benefit from a full pre-season. He has learned and developed his forward line play, along with the other key and medium forwards.
MARK NEELD: Jordan has had a solid pre-season and hardly missed a beat. His work around stoppages in our match play has been excellent, and he has continued to show improvement in his conditioning and weight work.
Dream Team: Forward, $359,300 2011 Games: 22 Ave: 72.64 Total Points: 1,598
Dream Team: Midfielder, $377,900 2011 Games: 15 Ave: 76.4 Total Points: 1,146
Elite Player Sponsor: Ian McKenzie Player Sponsor: Nick Brockbank Guernsey Club: Brian Sheehan and Tony Bright
Player Sponsor: William Lyall (Carter Real Estate) Guernsey Club: Southern Cross Finance – Ian Marriott
DID YOU KNOW? Matthew’s sporting skills extend to juggling – he can juggle four balls at once.
DID YOU KNOW? Jamie proudly wears the No. 7 guernsey once worn by Melbourne indigenous pioneer, Eddie Jackson, who was part of the 1948 premiership team.
DID YOU KNOW? Starting out a long way from the MCG, James’ first casual job while still at high school was with KFC.
matthew bate
Jamie Bennell
james frawley
6
7
8
Date of Birth: 24 May 1987 Height: 192 cm Weight: 91 kg Recruited: Croydon/Eastern U18 Drafted: 2004 National Draft (13) Debut: 2006 Games: 90 Goals: 90 Honours: Morrish Medal 2004, Rising Star Nominee 2006, Third Best and Fairest 2007, Fourth Best and Fairest 2009, Troy Broadbridge Memorial Trophy (highest vote count by Melbourne player in Casey Scorpions Best and Fairest) 2011
Date of Birth: 7 June 1990 Height: 179 cm Weight: 75 kg Recruited: Swan Districts (WA) Drafted: 2008 National Draft (35) Debut: 2009 Games: 51 Goals: 20
Date of Birth: 20 September 1988 group Height: 193 cm Weight: 93 kg Recruited: East Point/North Ballarat U18 Drafted: 2006 National Draft (12) Debut: 2007 Games: 82 Goals: 3 Honours: Coach’s Award 2009, Second Best and Fairest 2010, All Australian 2010, International Rules Series 2010, Third Best and Fairest 2011
MARK NEELD: Matty hasn’t missed a beat, and has had an excellent pre-season. He has consistently been among the top performers in the running component and has been extremely diligent in our midfield football drills and match play. Dream Team: Forward, $248,000 2011 Games: 7 Ave: 55.71 Total Points: 390 Elite Player Sponsor: Dr Edmond Lobaza Player Sponsor: Bater’s Dozen
MARK NEELD: Jamie is a very coachable player, who has impressed us all with his improvements in his fitness, strength and football. Jamie has continually looked to improve, with his exceptional and professional approach to his footy. We hope and anticipate that his improvements will translate onto the field. Dream Team: Midfielder, $195,400 2011 Games: 16 Ave: 39.5 Total Points: 632 Elite Player Sponsor: NSW Demons Player Sponsor: Roberta and Ralph Laurie
leadership
MARK NEELD: James started slightly after the main group due to International Rules duties. He returned to the group with terrific enthusiasm, and bought energy to the group straight away. He is a genuine competitor, who understands the game quite well. James loves the physical side of the game and has a thirst for the contest. He has improved his endurance and maintained his elite speed. He has a major role to play in our backline in Season 2012. Dream Team: Defender, $342,500 2011 Games: 21 Ave: 69.24 Total Points: 1,454 Elite Player Sponsor: Perkins Family Player Sponsor: Pam Haddrell Guernsey Club: Queensland Demons
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
25
SEASON 2012
DID YOU KNOW? Cale is starting journalism studies in 2012, alongside teammate Jack Trengove.
cale morton
DID YOU KNOW? Colin has kicked a career-best five goals twice. On both occasions, they were against Richmond.
mitch clark
COLIN sylvia
10
11
Date of Birth: 18 January 1990 Height: 192 cm Weight: 87 kg Recruited: Claremont (WA) Drafted: 2007 National Draft (4) Debut: 2008 Games: 64 Goals: 31 Honours: Rising Star Nominee 2008, Best First Year Player 2008
Date of Birth: 19 October 1987 group Height: 200 cm Weight: 99 kg Recruited: East Fremantle (WA)/Brisbane Drafted: Pre-Draft Trade 2011 Debut: 2006 (AFL) Games: 82 (AFL) Goals: 61 (AFL) Honours: Rising Star Nominee 2007, Brisbane Third Best and Fairest 2009, All Australian 2009, Brisbane leading goal kicker 2011
Date of Birth: 8 November 1985 Height: 186 cm Weight: 85 kg Recruited: Merbein/Bendigo U18 Drafted: 2003 National Draft (3) Debut: 2004 Games: 121 Goals: 105 Honours: Rising Star Nominee 2005, Fifth Best and Fairest 2009 (equal), Fifth Best and Fairest 2010, Club Ambassador Award 2010
MARK NEELD: Mitch has settled in really well, and has set a high standard at training. Mitch has worked hard getting to know his teammates, especially his forward line mates, where he will spend a lot of time.
MARK NEELD: Col missed a number of weeks preChristmas with a calf complaint. Since coming back to the main group, Col’s form and attitude has been outstanding.
MARK NEELD: Cale is an excellent endurance athlete, and has continually been in the top five for all running sessions. He has shown very good commitment in the gym, and has learned how to use his body in one-on-one contests. A smart player who has grasped the new game style quickly, Cale has a big year ahead of him, and is preparing himself well for it. Dream Team: Midfielder, $311,600 2011 Games: 14 Ave: 63 Total Points: 882 Elite Player Sponsor: Toorak Village Dental Care Player Sponsor: Fab Innovations P/L – Barry Helfenbaum Guernsey Club: Trevena
26
DID YOU KNOW? Mitch has achieved a career-best 28 disposals three times – twice against Melbourne.
leadership
Dream Team: Forward, $356,100 2011 Games: 17 Ave: 72 Total Points: 1,224 Elite Player Sponsor: EnergyWatch Player Sponsor: Metro Temporary Fences Guernsey Club: Joe Di Conza
12
Dream Team: Midfielder/Forward, $448,600 2011 Games: 19 Ave: 90.68 Total Points: 1,723 Elite Player Sponsor: Brian and Carol Sheehan Player: Sponsor Brian and Carol Sheehan Guernsey Club: Brian and Carol Sheehan
DID YOU KNOW? In what is a very sweet superstition, Jordie must eat pancakes the night before a game.
DID YOU KNOW? Lynden has played 48 matches and kicked 48 goals at the MCG.
DID YOU KNOW? While he was recruited from Queensland, Ricky is actually a Tasmanian by birth. He headed north with his family at the age of eight.
Jordie McKenzie
LYNDEN DUNN
RICKY PETTERD
13
14
15
Date of Birth: 21 June 1990 Height: 186 cm Weight: 82 kg Recruited: Terang-Mortlake/Geelong U18 Drafted: Rookie Elevation 2010 Debut: 2009 Games: 37 Goals: 4 Honours: Coach’s Award 2010, Coach’s Award 2011, Heart and Soul Players Award 2011
Date of Birth: 14 May 1987 Height: 192 cm Weight: 95 kg Recruited: Moonee Valley/Calder U18 Drafted: 2004 National Draft (15) Debut: 2006 Games: 81 Goals: 78 Honours: Best Clubman 2007
Date of Birth: 24 July 1988 Height: 185 cm Weight: 85 kg Recruited: Broadbeach (QLD) Drafted: 2006 National Draft (30) Debut: 2007 Games: 50 Goals: 55 Honours: Rising Star Nominee 2007, Best First Year Player 2007
MARK NEELD: Jordie has once again led by example. I’ve been extremely impressed with the way he has gone about his work. Jordie never leaves a stone unturned and on a daily basis is one of the first players to seek me out for ways to improve his game. Dream Team: Midfielder, $376,300 2011 Games: 15 Ave: 76.07 Total Points: 1,141 Elite Player Sponsor: Steve and Yvonne Johnson Player Sponsor: Tim Barrett and Healthscope Ltd Guernsey Club: Brian Lovelock
MARK NEELD: Lynden hasn’t missed a session. He has enjoyed a good pre-season and has spent all his time up forward, where his communication and organisational skills have been really important. Dream Team: Forward, $312,100 2011 Games: 11 Ave: 63.09 Total Points: 694 Elite Player Sponsor: Melbourne Vehicle Management (Joanne and Paul Young) Player Sponsor: Melbourne Vehicle Management (Joanne and Paul Young) Guernsey Club: Melbourne Vehicle Management (Joanne and Paul Young)
MARK NEELD: After a slow start, Ricky has put together a really good block of training. His hard work in rehab allowed him to slip straight back into full training without any fuss. He has trained well in the forward line group. Dream Team: Forward, $390,400 2011 Games: 15 Ave: 78.93 Total Points: 1,184 Elite Player Sponsor: John, Janella, Lucy and Katrina Hodgson Player Sponsor: Casalinga Cheese P/L. B and C Roda Guernsey Club: BigFooty Demons
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
27
SEASON 2012
DID YOU KNOW? Sam wears the same guernsey number – No. 17 – that his own father did when playing football.
SAM BLEASE
DID YOU KNOW? Brad is applying his knowledge of the sports world to cricket, managing some Australian/ Victorian cricketers through Top Dog Management.
DID YOU KNOW? James was in the thick of AFL action from a very young age, attending school with Cyril Rioli.
BRAD GREEN
james strauss
17
18
19
Date of Birth: 19 February 1991 Height: 184 cm Weight: 80 kg Recruited: Norwood (VMFL)/Yarra Valley Grammar/ Eastern U18 Drafted: 2008 National Draft (17) Debut: 2011 Games: 5 Goals: 0
Date of Birth: 13 March 1981 Height: 184 cm Weight: 83 kg Recruited: Northern Bombers/Tas U18 Drafted: 1999 National Draft (19) Debut: 2000 Games: 241 Goals: 331 Honours: Rising Star Nominee 2000, Best Clubman 2002, International Rules Series 2004, 2010, Fifth Best and Fairest 2005, 2006, Fourth Best and Fairest 2007, Best Team Player 2007, Third Best and Fairest 2008, Leadership Award 2008, Best and Fairest 2010, Leadership Award 2010, Heart and Soul Players Award 2010
Date of Birth: 14 June 1990 Height: 185 cm Weight: 85 kg Recruited: Canterbury/Scotch College/Oakleigh U18 Drafted: 2008 National Draft (19) Debut: 2010 Games: 11 Goals: 0
MARK NEELD: Sam has been training well and has hardly missed a session. He has been building his fitness base, and will play more roles in the forward line this year. Dream Team: Midfielder, $228,500 2011 Games: 5 Ave: 46.2 Total Points: 231 Elite Player Sponsor: John Cronin – Stone-edge Landscapes Player Sponsor: John and Enid Mahoney
MARK NEELD: Brad has had a really good pre-season. He has hardly missed a session. Brad has a good fitness base, which might allow him to have opportunities further up the ground at times. Dream Team: Forward, $383,900 2011 Games: 21 Ave: 77.62 Total Points: 1,630 Elite Player Sponsor: Club Assist Player Sponsor: Rod and Janice Brown
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MARK NEELD: After suffering a traumatic injury in 2011, James has had a long road back with his rehab. He was out of condition when he first started the summer training, but has improved enormously, through his hard work in rehab. He is now in full training and has been impressive with his movement and understanding of the game. A very good kick, he is learning a lot about what it takes to be a consistent AFL performer. Dream Team: Defender, $246,800 2011 Games: 9 Ave: 49.89 Total Points: 449 Player Sponsor: The Pentad Group – Warmington Family Guernsey Club: Philip Steel
DID YOU KNOW? Proving that he is a thinker, Col holds a unique honour from his school days – Year Seven chess champion.
DID YOU KNOW? Lucas’ older brother, Jackson, worked in the Club’s Shop and as a recruiter during 2011.
DID YOU KNOW? Embracing modern technology, Brent used Twitter to find his lost dog – the response was such that his appeal trended in Melbourne.
colin garland
lucas cook
brent moloney
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leadership
Date of Birth: 28 April 1988 group Height: 191 cm Weight: 90 kg Recruited: North Hobart/Tas U18/Tas VFL Drafted: 2006 National Draft (46) Debut: 2007 Games: 58 Goals: 4 Honours: Rising Star Nominee 2008, Club Ambassador Award 2011
MARK NEELD: Colin has hardly missed a session throughout the pre-season. He has been very durable and looked to improve in several aspects to becoming a better athlete and footballer. He has shown significant improvement in his aerobic capacity and his speed and endurance. Colin has a real appetite for education and has embraced our new game style, and the way of doing things, very well. He is a 58-game player who we are looking to have a consistent season. Dream Team: Defender, $288,000 2011 Games: 18 Ave: 58.22 Total Points: 1,048 Elite Player Sponsor: Great British Apparel Player Sponsor: Worldwide Customs and Forward Agents Guernsey Club: Ian Dunstan – Kalgoorlie WA
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Date of Birth: 3 March 1992 Height: 196 cm Weight: 81 kg Recruited: Hopetoun/North Ballarat U18 Drafted: 2010 National Draft (12)
Date of Birth: 28 January 1984 Height: 182 cm Weight: 87 kg Recruited: South Warrnambool/Geelong U18/Geelong Drafted: 2004 Pre-Draft Trade Debut: 2005 (2003 AFL) Games: 107 (130 AFL) Goals: 28 (34 AFL) Honours: Rising Star Nominee 2004, Fourth Best and Fairest 2005, International Rules Series 2005, Second Best and Fairest 2009, Leadership Award 2009, Best and Fairest 2011
MARK NEELD: Lucas has run well and completed a really good block of training leading into the pre-season games. We are looking for Lucas to develop into a key forward, and he is continually learning and training for this type of position. Dream Team: Forward, $104,200 2011 Games: 0 Ave: 0 Total Points: 0 Player Sponsor: Elliot Swart Family and Dr Mark Freilich
MARK NEELD: I’ve been extremely impressed with Brent’s attitude this pre-season. He has hardly missed a session. He is a very strong leader, particularly with the midfield group. Brent has also been working to improve his endurance, and has shown excellence. Dream Team: Midfielder, $435,300 2011 Games: 22 Ave: 88 Total Points: 1,936 Elite Player Sponsor: Torsten Kasper – Chisholm and Gamon Property Player Sponsor: Roly and Gina Hartskeerl – Roland Communications P/L
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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SEASON 2012
DID YOU KNOW? Liam led the Club’s goal kicking for the first time in 2011, with 40 goals to his credit.
liam jurrah
DID YOU KNOW? Tom was the first Melbourne player to make his AFL debut against the Gold Coast Suns. He played his debut match in Round 23 last year.
DID YOU KNOW? Jared’s second placing in the 2011 Best and Fairest marked the first occasion on which he has finished in the top three of the award in his career.
tom mcdonald
jared rivers
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Date of Birth: 22 September 1988 Height: 188 cm Weight: 84 kg Recruited: Yuendumu Magpies (NT)/Collingwood VFL Drafted: 2009 Pre-Season Draft (1) Debut: 2009 Games: 35 Goals: 81 Honours: Best First Year Player 2009
Date of Birth: 18 September 1992 Height: 194 cm Weight: 88 kg Recruited: Edenhope-Apsley/North Ballarat U18 Drafted: 2010 National Draft (53) Debut: 2011 Games: 2 Goals: 0
Date of Birth: 18 October 1984 Height: 192 cm Weight: 92 kg Recruited: North Adelaide (SA) Drafted: 2002 National Draft (26) Debut: 2003 Games: 128 Goals: 5 Honours: NAB AFL Rising Star 2004, Most Improved Player 2004, Second Best and Fairest 2011
MARK NEELD: Liam has been running well and started to handle the football after having minor wrist surgery. Dream Team: Forward, $323,700 2011 Games: 18 Ave: 65.44 Total Points: 1,178 Player Sponsor: Travelworld Central Melbourne Guernsey Club: The Jurrah Club
MARK NEELD: Tom has run very well. His pre-season has been great, and he has hardly missed a session. He will be looking to carry the momentum into the season, having spent most of his time training in the forward line. Dream Team: Forward, $204,300 2011 Games: 2 Ave: 59 Total Points: 118 Player Sponsor: Emily, Matt, Bob and Tom Macdonald
MARK NEELD: This has been a very consistent preseason from Jared. He has completed a high percentage of sessions, and has shown major gains across the board from a conditioning sense. He is a natural footballer who has embraced the new game style that has been implemented. Jared is passionate about his footy, and is extremely keen for the Club to be successful, and for him be a part of it. Dream Team: Defender, $281,000 2011 Games: 20 Ave: 56.8 Total Points: 1,136 Elite Player Sponsor: Patricia Wing Jan and Janice Pallprat Player Sponsor: David and Peter Downie
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DID YOU KNOW? Joel is one of the Club’s most environmentally friendly players, even riding a bicycle to training.
DID YOU KNOW? James was selected at No. 14 in the 2006 NAB AFL Draft – two places behind new teammate James Frawley at No. 12.
DID YOU KNOW? Stefan is one of the side’s most committed students, undertaking a double degree in Science and Law at Melbourne University.
joel macdonald
james sellar
stefan martin
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Date of Birth: 10 October 1984 Height: 188 cm Weight: 88 kg Recruited: Mt Gravatt (QLD)/Brisbane Drafted: 2010 Pre-Season Draft (1) Debut: 2010 (2004 AFL) Games: 27 (107 AFL) Goals: 0 (6 AFL)
Date of Birth: 24 March 1989 Height: 196 cm Weight: 95 kg Recruited: Glenelg (SA)/Adelaide Drafted: 2011 National Draft (54) Debut: 2008 (AFL) Games: 21 (AFL) Goals: 3 (AFL)
Date of Birth: 17 November 1986 Height: 198 cm Weight: 103 kg Recruited: Old Haileybury/Sandringham Drafted: 2008 Pre-Season Draft (3) Debut: 2008 Games: 50 Goals: 16
MARK NEELD: Joel has got himself extremely fit over the last three months, and has given himself every chance to perform well in 2012. He has excellent endurance and has shown a very strong competitive spirit. He is a popular player amongst his peers, who is keen to have a big impact this season.
MARK NEELD: James fitted into the group very quickly after moving across from Adelaide. He is a very impressive young bloke who is here to perform after five seasons in a good system at the Crows. James brings a range of skill sets to the Club with his size and versatility. He knows that he is fortunate to get a second opportunity, and is very determined to make the most of it.
MARK NEELD: Stef has trained well, and has completed nearly every session. He has spent his time between forward and midfield.
Dream Team: Defender, $348,700 2011 Games: 10 Ave: 70.5 Total Points: 705
Dream Team: Defender/Ruckman, $232,500 2011 Games: 5 Ave: 47 Total Points: 235
Elite Player Sponsor: Young Family – Ross, Julie, Paul and Joanne Player Sponsor: Heather Cole and Svan Henderson
Player Sponsor: Gail Lutton and Margaret Monk
Dream Team: Ruckman, $408,900 2011 Games: 21 Ave: 82.67 Total Points: 1,736 Elite Player Sponsor: Glezer Lanteri and Associates Pty Ltd and Breath Treatment Centre Player Sponsor: Bernie and Lorraine Holtschke
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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SEASON 2012
DID YOU KNOW? Heading into the season on exactly 150 games, Aaron is at level pegging with another of the Club’s recent indigenous players – Matthew Whelan, who retired at the end of 2009, having reached the 150 milestone in his last game.
DID YOU KNOW? Max is the ultimate ambassador for trans-Tasman sporting relations, with both his parents migrating from New Zealand to Australia as teenagers.
aaron davey
max gawn
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Date of Birth: 28 June 1991 Height: 180 cm Weight: 87 kg Recruited: North Adelaide (SA) Drafted: 2009 National Draft (18) Debut: 2011 Games: 15 Goals: 2
Date of Birth: 10 June 1983 Height: 177 cm Weight: 74 kg Recruited: Palmerston (NT)/Port Melbourne Drafted: Rookie Elevation 2004 Debut: 2004 Games: 150 Goals: 152 Honours: Rising Star Nominee 2004, Best First Year Player 2004, Third Best and Fairest 2005, International Rules Series 2005, 2006, Best Clubman 2006, Fifth Best and Fairest 2007, Best and Fairest 2009, Heart and Soul Players Award 2009, Fourth Best and Fairest 2010
Date of Birth: 30 December 1991 Height: 208 cm Weight: 107 kg Recruited: Ormond/Sandringham U18 Drafted: 2009 National Draft (34) Debut: 2011 Games: 4 Goals: 1
DID YOU KNOW? Luke originally comes from a little town with a tongue twister name – Orroroo, located in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges.
luke tapscott
MARK NEELD: Luke had a delay to his pre-season due to post-season surgery, but since then he has been solid with all aspects of his training. Dream Team: Defender, $256,900 2011 Games: 15 Ave: 51.93 Total Points: 779 Elite Player Sponsor: Judy Gillard, Ian Murton, Chris and Donna Turner Player Sponsor: Tom and Steve Morris Guernsey Club: Doug Derham
MARK NEELD: Aaron’s skill work has been a highlight, and the players’ eyes really light up when Aaron has the ball in hand. He has spent most of the pre-season working with the forward line, where his skills and speed will be important. Dream Team: Midfielder, $320,200 2011 Games: 11 Ave: 64.73 Total Points: 712 Elite Player Sponsor: Celtic Connection Player Sponsor: Peter Ashton and Ian Sunderland Guernsey Club: Celtic Connection
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MARK NEELD: Max unfortunately hurt his knee preChristmas, which required a full reconstruction. Max recently came off crutches and is back at the Club, fully into his rehabilitation program. Dream Team: Ruckman, $222,600 2011 Games: 4 Ave: 56.25 Total Points: 225 Player Sponsor: Maeven Property Pty Ltd (Chrapot Family)
DID YOU KNOW? Like many footballers, Jeremy’s entire family has sound sporting credentials. His cousin Matthew Wade is the Victorian wicket keeper, and was recently promoted to the Australian one-day side.
DID YOU KNOW? Neville is part of the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation’s Wall of Hands – wallofhands.com.au – helping to bridge the indigenous literacy gap.
DID YOU KNOW? Mark’s father has a job that many youngsters find as fascinating as the prospect of becoming a footballer – he is a fireman.
jEREMY HOWE
NEVILLE JETTA
mark jamar
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Date of Birth: 29 June 1990 Height: 190 cm Weight: 83 kg Recruited: Hobart (TAS) Drafted: 2010 National Draft (33) Debut: 2011 Games: 13 Goals: 18 Honours: Best First Year Player 2011
Date of Birth: 12 February 1990 Height: 180 cm Weight: 81 kg Recruited: Swan Districts (WA) Drafted: 2008 National Draft (51) Debut: 2009 Games: 30 Goals: 18
Date of Birth: 9 August 1983 group Height: 198 cm Weight: 104 kg Recruited: North Adelaide Drafted: Rookie Elevation 2002 Debut: 2003 Games: 110 Goals: 44 Honours: All Australian 2010, Third Best and Fairest 2010
MARK NEELD: Jeremy hasn’t missed a beat this preseason. He has worked hard and is a very competitive person. He has been working well and really developed some really good partnerships up forward. Dream Team: Forward, $308,200 2011 Games: 13 Ave: 62.31 Total Points: 810 Player Sponsor: Diane Mountney and Pearl Shaw
MARK NEELD: Neville was late entering the main group this pre-season due to surgery post season. Neville’s rehab went particularly well pre-Christmas and due to his diligence with his rehab program, Neville re-entered the group after Christmas very well. His skill levels continue to be high and he has regularly refined his knowledge and understanding of the game, style and team structures. Neville has a good level of fitness considering he missed a large amount of conditioning pre-Christmas. Working in the backs division, Neville is giving himself every chance of having a successful 2012 season.
leadership
MARK NEELD: I’ve been very pleased with Mark’s pre-season training. He has strong presence among the midfield group, and has continually challenged others to achieve excellence. Dream Team: Ruckman, $352,200 2011 Games: 15 Ave: 71.2 Total Points: 1,068 Elite Player Sponsor: Club Assist Player Sponsor: Trevor and Flora Murdoch Guernsey Club: Joe Di Conza
Dream Team: Midfielder, $322,100 2011 Games: 9 Ave: 65.11 Total Points: 586 Elite Player Sponsor: The Bunn and Franceschini Families Player Sponsor: Micallef Family
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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SEASON 2012
DID YOU KNOW? While yet to make his senior debut, Troy gained great insight into the way the team works in 2011, watching a game from the coaches’ box.
troy davis
DID YOU KNOW? Rory has achieved great things with his recruitment, becoming the first Horsham Saints player to make it into the AFL.
jake spencer
rory taggert
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Date of Birth: 10 June 1992 Height: 192 cm Weight: 90 kg Recruited: Kerang/Geelong Grammar/Geelong U18 Drafted: 2010 National Draft (50)
Date of Birth: 9 October 1989 Height: 203 cm Weight: 105 kg Recruited: Redlands (QLD) Drafted: Rookie Elevation 2010 Debut: 2009 Games: 8 Goals: 0
Date of Birth: 22 June 1993 Height: 188 cm Weight: 85 kg Recruited: Horsham Saints/North Ballarat U18 Drafted: 2011 National Draft (36)
MARK NEELD: Going into his second season on the list, Troy has had a terrific pre-season. He has been able to produce great consistency and back up each session. His physical condition is very good due to his training consistency. Able to play a key defensive role, Troy has continually developed his understanding of the game style and its structural expectations. Troy’s physical strength continues to be a real asset for him. With his aerobic condition now at a level that will enable him to compete for extended periods, he has given himself every opportunity of having a good season. Dream Team: Defender, $104,200 2011 Games: 0 Ave: 0 Total Points: 0 Player Sponsor: Bill Harries
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DID YOU KNOW? Jake holds a rare honour, being the first person from Townsville to be drafted and play for an AFL club.
MARK NEELD: After coming off a knee reconstruction in 2011, Jake has been outstanding with his rehab work. He has gained size and strength in the gym. Jake isn’t far from returning to the main training group. Dream Team: Ruckman, $104,200 2011 Games: 0 Ave: 0 Total Points: 0 Player Sponsor: Kaye Hargreaves and Julie Lockhart
MARK NEELD: Rory has settled in really well, and I’ve been extremely impressed with the way he has gone about his football training work. He has also worked diligently with his weights and conditioning. Dream Team: Midfielder, $98,700 2011 Games: 0 Ave: 0 Total Points: 0 Player Sponsor: Mark Davis
DID YOU KNOW? In 2012, Rohan is heading off to study, planning to take up primary school teaching.
DID YOU KNOW? Josh comes from a footballing family, with brother Luke winning the Reserves’ Best and Fairest at Casey in 2011.
DID YOU KNOW? Jack is Melbourne’s most recent debutant, having played his first AFL match for the Demons against Port Adelaide in Round 24 at the Adelaide Oval last year.
rohan bail
josh tynan
jack fitzpatrick
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Date of Birth: 26 June 1988 Height: 183 cm Weight: 82 kg Recruited: Mt Gravatt (QLD) Drafted: 2008 National Draft (64) Debut: 2009 Games: 18 Goals: 5
Date of Birth: 6 November 1993 Height: 185 cm Weight: 76 kg Recruited: Garfield/Gippsland U18 Drafted: 2011 National Draft (52)
Date of Birth: 26 June 1991 Height: 200 cm Weight: 93 kg Recruited: Wyndham Vale/Western U18 Drafted: 2009 National Draft (50) Debut: 2011 Games: 1 Goals: 1
MARK NEELD: Rohan has completed the majority of the pre-season training. He has achieved high levels in our conditioning/running component, consistently finishing with the top runners. Once again Rohan’s attitude has been excellent and we are looking forward to a strong season from him. Dream Team: Midfielder, $361,100 2011 Games: 8 Ave: 73 Total Points: 584 Elite Player Sponsor: Tim and Mary Anne Holland Player Sponsor: Tim Barrett and Gabe Poulton Guernsey Club: M39ers (Roy Carey and Geoff Widmer)
MARK NEELD: Josh was drafted from the Gippsland Power at selection 52 in the 2011 NAB Draft. Able to play on a variety of players in the defensive half, Josh has embraced life as an AFL footballer with his attention to detail in terms of his preparation, performance and recovery. After being in rehab – from the time he was drafted until Christmas – Josh has entered the main group post-Christmas in good physical condition. He has continued to enhance his understanding of the game style and structures. Through his diligence to this point, Josh has set himself for a good first up AFL season.
MARK NEELD: Jack has had a good pre-season. He has put together some really good blocks of training and is progressing really well. Jack has spent most of his time between the forward line and the midfield. Dream Team: Ruckman, $186,000 2011 Games: 1 Ave: 47 Total Points: 47 Player Sponsor: Toorak Village Dental Care Guernsey Club: Ross Gillespie
Dream Team: Defender, $98,700 2011 Games: 0 Ave: 0 Total Points: 0 Player Sponsor: Theo and Lisa Schreurs
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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rookie profiles
SEASON 2012
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daniel nicholson
Michael Evans
Kelvin Lawrence
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Date of Birth: 2 November 1990 Height: 183 cm Weight: 78 kg Recruited: East Point/St Pats, Ballarat/ Uni Blues Drafted: Rookie 2011 Debut: 2011 Games: 9 Goals: 2
Date of Birth: 13 July 1992 Height: 180 cm Weight: 75 kg Recruited: Claremont (WA) Drafted: Rookie 2011 Debut: 2011 Games: 4 Goals: 0
Date of Birth: 14 October 1992 Height: 180 cm Weight: 75 kg Recruited: Peel Thunder (WA) Drafted: Rookie 2011
MARK NEELD: Daniel has continually produced excellent results in our running component and because of this he has lifted the standards of others. Daniel’s attitude and his desire to play a team role will allow him opportunities in 2012. DID YOU KNOW? Daniel has had a speedy start to 2012, winning the team’s 3 km time trial at Princes Park in early January. Dream Team: Midfielder, $266,600 2011 Games: 9 Ave: 53.89 Total Points: 485
MARK NEELD: Due to some minor injuries, Michael has had a frustrating pre-season. However, I have been extremely impressed with his attitude throughout the pre-season period.
MARK NEELD: Kelvin has run well and used his skills and speed to good effect during training. He has had a really good block of training after a slow start to the pre-season.
DID YOU KNOW? Second year rookie Michael is right at the heart of the Club, boarding with the family of Russel Howcroft, Club director.
DID YOU KNOW? Heading into his second year as a rookie with Melbourne, Kelvin originally hails from Rockingham Football Club, in Western Australia’s Peel Football League.
Dream Team: Midfielder, $274,000 2011 Games: 4 Ave: 69.25 Total Points: 277
Dream Team: Forward, $104,200 2011 Games: 0 Ave: 0 Total Points: 0
Elite Player Sponsor: Joe Di Conza Player Sponsor: Emily Hill
Player Sponsor: Mark Peterson
Tom Couch
James Magner
Jai Sheahan
Leigh Williams
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Date of Birth: 17 June 1988 Height: 177 cm Weight: 79 kg Recruited: Glenelg (SA)/Bell Park/ Geelong VFL/Collingwood VFL Drafted: Rookie 2012
Date of Birth: 12 August 1987 Height: 182 cm Weight: 89 kg Recruited: Frankston/Sandringham Drafted: Rookie 2012
Date of Birth: 27 January 1993 Height: 195 cm Weight: 82 kg Recruited: Newtown (VCFL) Geelong U18 Drafted: Rookie 2012
Date of Birth: 19 May 1990 Height: 193 cm Weight: 95 kg Recruited: Norwood (VMFL) Drafted: Rookie 2012
MARK NEELD: James unfortunately hurt his ankle in his first week at the Club, however the professionalism he displayed in his rehabilitation allowed him to come back to the main group in great shape post-Christmas. James has also challenged the other midfielders for an NAB opportunity.
MARK NEELD: Jai has entered the Club from the Geelong Falcons, where he won the Best and Fairest last season. Taken with selection 6 in the 2011 Rookie Draft, Jai played all his TAC Cup football as a leading forward, and has spent the pre-season with the backs to help his all-round development. Jai brings an elite running capacity for a player of his size. This should enable Jai to play a variety of roles. Jai’s pre-season has seen him learn about the standards and expectations associated with being an AFL footballer.
MARK NEELD: Leigh has come a long way in a short period of time. After playing local footy last season, he has quickly learned and adapted to being a professional footballer. He has been training with the forwards, and learned a lot from the other key forwards.
MARK NEELD: Tom has continually impressed and strongly challenged the other midfielders in all aspects of football and conditioning training. At the moment, he has put his hand up for an NAB Cup opportunity. DID YOU KNOW? Tom’s father, Paul, gained fame for his home town of Boggy Creek when he won the Brownlow Medal in 1989. Dream Team: Forward/Midfielder, $85,800 2011 Games: 0 Ave: 0 Total Points: 0 Player Sponsor: Darien and Rob Thompson
DID YOU KNOW? New rookie James already has a great Melbourne connection, having been coached by past great and new Casey coach, Brett Lovett, at Frankston and Sandringham. Dream Team: Midfielder, $85,800 2011 Games: 0 Ave: 0 Total Points: 0 Elite Player Sponsor: Keith Scallion Player Sponsor: Chris Sleigh – HCF Australia
DID YOU KNOW? Jai already has a great Melbourne connection, having been coached by new development coach, Aaron Greaves, at the Geelong Falcons.
DID YOU KNOW? New rookie Leigh made his mark in the Eastern Football League in 2011, leading that competition’s overall goal kicking tally. Dream Team: Forward, $85,800 2011 Games: 0 Ave: 0 Total Points: 0 Player Sponsor: Richard Starkins
Dream Team: Forward, $111,800 2011 Games: 0 Ave: 0 Total Points: 0
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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A N E W H EARTLAND
Why Casey? Words Martin Cox
It’s a Friday afternoon, in mid-February, and the Demons are going through their final preparations for the NAB Cup with an intra club scratch match - an event where only the most ardent of supporters are normally trickled around the sidelines.
Jeremy Howe and Mitch Clark celebrate alongside Rohan Bail at the Casey Intra Club Match.
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I
n the lead-up to the game, the Club switchboard, inbox and Facebook page are all getting the same questions. Some wonder “what are we doing playing in Cranbourne?”, while some want to know “where is Casey Fields?” and others even ask “why aren’t we playing in Melbourne where we belong?”. All are valid questions, for loyal members deserve to understand why their team is playing at Casey Fields in Cranbourne, 51 kilometres south east of the MCG and AAMI Park. On a muggy afternoon, more than 1,500 people walked through the gates for the scratch match, a game where the scoreboard was not even keeping score. The crowd tells a narrative as to why the Melbourne Football Club signed a 30-year agreement with the City of Casey to train at Casey Fields and run community programs within its boundaries (these include suburbs such as Cranbourne, Narre Warren and Berwick). A batch of loyal fans are packed into the small grandstand 30 minutes before the start of the game, many having journeyed from Melbourne. On the opposite wing is a jumping castle packed with kids - some wearing hand-medown jumpers, some wearing shiny new Auskick guernseys. Many kids are still wearing their school uniforms and are watching AFL players in action for the first time, having been exposed to the Club’s community programs, such as Read Like a Demon and Digital Demons. In the function room upstairs sits a group of local coaches who are taking part in the Club’s
coach mentor program and receiving coaching tips from assistant coaches and players. The Casey Demons supporter group started off as a small committee three years ago, and has grown into a small army, who on this day are working tirelessly behind the barbie. Next to the Club’s membership marquee is a tent for the South East Juniors Football League, promoting a junior football competition that last year had 4,453 participants playing in 196 junior teams across 24 clubs. Four years ago, our club wasn’t talking to any of these people. When Jim Stynes and his board took power in 2008 they not only inherited a team that sat afoot the premiership ladder, they inherited a club that had the lowest supporter base in the AFL. The City of Casey is home to more than 253,000, a number that grows by an average of 120 heads per week. Some of those people are being born into the area, some moved into the area from local and abroad. As a rapidly growing region, the City of Casey wanted an elite sporting club to connect with its grass roots community. The Melbourne Football Club needed to cultivate a new generation of supporters and secure additional training facilities. It was a perfect match, but both parties knew an agreement needed some substance. The sheer length of the 30-year partnership is a symbol of that, but more meaningful is the breadth of relationships being developed across grass roots sport, schools, local business and government.
Over three decades, the Melbourne Football Club will become a permanently entrenched part of our community. – Cr Sam Aziz (Casey Mayor)
City of Casey Mayor Cr Sam Aziz.
Auskick kids in Casey proudly wear their Demons jumpers.
Mark Jamar at the Casey Demons Christmas Party.
“Over three decades, the Melbourne Football Club will become a permanently entrenched part of our community; a good neighbour and a great friend and for everyone who lives in Casey, as well as those people who will live here in the future,” explained City of Casey Mayor Cr Sam Aziz. “That’s a great thing to have.” The partnership is beginning to reap benefits that extend well beyond the City of Casey boundaries. Read Like a Demon - a literacy program that has received national recognition – was
spawned out of a partnership with the CaseyCardinia Library Corporation. This year, it becomes a truly national program, with players using Skype to conduct reading activities with children throughout Victoria and Australia. Primary students in remote areas of the Northern Territory are able to take part in the program, and a school in China has even shown interest in becoming involved. “You only need to look at the photos of the smiling primary school children who have gotten the chance to read books with their footy heroes in the Read Like a Demon program to immediately feel the impact of this in Casey,” says Cr Aziz of the literacy program. Partnerships with junior football clubs and Auskick centres that we have developed in the City of Casey will become the Melbourne Football Club’s template for building similar relationships with local football leagues and Auskick centres across Victoria. The seeds being planted and the relationships being built in the City of Casey today will give a whole new generation a team to call its own.
Proud Sponsors of the
Phone (03) 9763 0675 or www.mvm.au.com
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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$2,749
Spaces are limited. Registrations must be received by Monday 2 April. This is our major kids’ clinic for 2012, so get in quick to ensure you don’t miss out! Free for Young Demons members aged 5-15 Non-members $15 Register online melbournefc.com.au/clinics or phone 1300 DEMONS (1300 336 667)
AFL Playground Visit the AFL Playground outside the MCG at every game, both home and away. There’s heaps of fun activities for kids, plenty of seating for parents to relax, and you can meet the Demon mascots. Visit afl.com.au/playground for more details. Young Demons Guard of Honour Every week, 50 Demon Kids get the chance to stand on the MCG to cheer the Demons on as they enter the field. Email info@melbournefc.com.au to find out how you can get involved.
www.melbournefc.com.au 2012 season guide
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w w w . m e l b o u r n e b u s i n e s s c o mm u n i t y . c o m . a u
Melbourne Business Community Launch The launch of the Melbourne Business Community, Wednesday 22 February, lived up to expectations as an event not to be missed on the Melbourne Football Club calendar.
O
ver 250 likeminded professionals united at the MCG to witness the Club unveil its next phase in business networking, with Melbourne’s sporting precinct setting the scene for a room abuzz with excitement and anticipation. Attendees were privileged to a star studded line up, including senior coach Mark Neeld, along with Director of Sports Performance, Neil Craig and newly named cocaptain, Jack Trengove, who shared the player spotlight with teammate, Jordie McKenzie. They were also joined by Club Director Karen Hayes, and Club legends, David Neitz and Chris Connolly. General Manager of Club Development, Chris Connolly, was overwhelmed by the response of the night – the impressive speakers and the new Melbourne Business Community website just some of the highlights.
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Words Lucy Bell
“The launch was a huge success for the Club and brings us one step closer to our aim of having the most effective business community in the AFL. This is a real testament to the work we have been doing in the business space over the last few years,” he said. Connolly explained that all attendees were strongly encouraged to sign up and be a part of the Melbourne Business Community – an opportunity for networking, business and friendship, through a variety of inner sanctum experiences, events, information and offerings throughout the season. “Our aim in 2012 is to sign up 500 Melbourne Business Community members. Whatever age, industry or interest, we have a place for you,” he said. Connolly’s new role, based around club development, will focus strongly on the Melbourne Business Community, overseeing the continuous evolvement of this area. “I encourage all those in business, whether you are a Melbourne supporter or not, to sign up and experience what it means to be a part of this unique community.” For more information, please visit www.melbournebusinesscommunity.com.au
LI
M ITED GU E R EDITION NS EY S
Limited Edition Guernseys
Official Supplements Partner This pre-season the Demons have worn two special guernseys, both close to the heart of the Club. Throughout the NAB Cup, the Demons have been wearing a guernsey proudly featuring the Reach Foundation logo on its chest.
Members
Price
$112.
50
ce Full pri99 $124.
This was followed by another special guernsey that was worn on St Patrick’s Day to celebrate our Irish connection. Both guernseys are available for a limited time from the Demon Shop.
Members
Price
$179. 99 Full pr ice $199. 99
Order online:
melbournefc.com.au/demonshop Claim your 10% membership discount online Or visit us at the MCG: Entrance E on Brunton Avenue Open 10am-5pm weekdays and at every MCG Demons game
BODYSCIENCE.COM.AU facebook.com/bodyscience
twitter.com/bodyscience
RUSSIAN’s Top Ten
Russian’s Top
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Hip Hop/Rap: It’s always pumping in the car, especially before every game.
1
My current top five are: 1: Rick Ross 2: Lil’ Wayne 3: The Game 4: Drake 5: Kanye West/JayZ
2
8
Dulce’s Dad’s BBQ: The boys will back me up here - Michael can cook a mean BBQ! Whenever Dulce wants to see me, I check if they are having a BBQ , then I make my decision!
Playing on the MCG: As a kid, I only dreamed of visiting the ‘G. For the last ten years it’s been my home ground. It’s special every time.
Grand Designs: Get your act together and watch the next season of Grand Designs Australia. I want to host this show one day!
5
Building: I think it’s in my blood. I don’t care if it’s working on walls, roofs, floors, renovating a bathroom or installing a kitchen. I’m also studying to become a registered builder.
3
Cancun, Mexico: All you can eat, crystal clear water, free sun tan, Cocobongo and flexing for photos. I love it there! It’s also where I proposed to Dulce.
4
Tennyson, SA: Mum and Dad just built a new house 100 m from the beach. The beach is picturesque, and you get a glimpse of Westlakes. I generally whack on the Speedos and runners and go for a stroll!
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6
Sons of Anarchy: Talk about glued to the TV! Jonesy thinks he’s Jax. Chippa has the same pill as Clay. Garlo is the Prospect, and Riv is Unser.
9
Play Station 3: Whether it’s smashing Belly on COD, MADDEN, or going head to head in a game of FIFA with Beamer, it’s great fun!
10
Afghan Village Restaurant: My neighbour owns this restaurant on Burke Rd in Camberwell, and the food is amazing! I try to get there once a week.
Mark Jamar – ‘Russian’ - is new to the leadership group in 2012, and one of the Club’s renowned big men.