2013
BRUMBIES
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Issue #24 JUNE 2013
#24
Cover: Terry Campese and Josh Papalii launch the Raiders Centenary jersey
ConTents 4. Government issues - Manuka Oval Upgrade 6. state of the play - Rugby Union with Brett McKay 8. Brumbies -Finals Bound 9. John I Dent - Awaited clash in June 10. Raiders - Origin reward for footy focus 12. Raiders - Centenary Jumper Revealed 13. Canberra Raiders Cup - Blues finals favorites 14. state of the play - AFL with Todd Davey 16. GWS Giants - Battle for Hearts and Minds 17. NEAFL - Representative focus 18. Football - Matildas Visit Canberra 20. Basketball - Capitals add another big signing 22. Socials - State of the Union Lunch 23. ACTEWAGL - Events Calendar 24. SOCIAL - Women in League & ACT Cricket 26. Sportenary - Events and Club of the Month 28. Physical Activity - Are we up to the Challenge 29. Rally - Rhys Pinter back on track 30. Crossword - PLAY’s Sport Crossword
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & COLLABORATORS: Antony Perry Josh Matic Brett McKay Todd Davey Shaun Ebert Joshua Mercer Adam Phelan Lyndall Parker Brendan Parnell Chris Cairns Russ Gibbs Jessica Munoz PHOTOGRAPHERS: Andrew Finch: www.edgelightphotography.com.au Ben Southall: www.bensouthall.com.au
Michael Phelan: B&M photography Nudgepix Photography: www.nudgepix.com.au WEB PLAYCANBERRA.COM.AU
CONTACT EDITORIAL Nathan Minerds - editor@playcanberra.com.au 0452 220 100 ADVERTISING Ad Guys - advertise@playcanberra.com.au 0452 220 100
DISCLAIMER PLAY Canberra is a monthly magazine distributed to over 500 locations in Canberra on the first Thursday of the month. The opinions, view and comments expressed in PLAY do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or publisher. PLAY Canberra is not responsible for the information submitted in the ads by the advertisers. Issue #24 JUNE 2013
The month that was
There’s never a dull moment in sport in Australia and May encapsulated the Good(e), the Bad and the Ugly. The above image was the defining moment of May 2013. It’s hard to believe that 20 years after Nicky Winmar took a stand against racism (in the round four 1993 clash against Collingwood) our indigenous stars are still facing this kind of rubbish from spectators. Perhaps the most troubling feature of this event is that it took place during the AFL’s indigenous round. A round set-up to celebrate the achievements and contribution of indigenous players; and also to celebrate how far the AFL and Australia in general has come in terms of racical equality. There are no excuses for the girl’s behaviour or the attempts to defend her actions. Whether you find the term “ape” racist or not is totally irrelevant - the fact the Adam Goodes found the term racist is the only thing that matters, and those watching the game were left in no doubt that the comment left him visibly upset. Head over to itstopswithme.humanrights.gov.au to show your support and lets keep this shameful behaviour in the past where it belongs.
ORIGIN On a lighter note, the circus that is State of Origin began in late May and Canberra Raiders fans have 3 extra reasons to watch Origin this year. Blake Ferguson has been rewarded for his renewed focus on football with an Origin debut and the hard hitting Josh Papalii has begun his Origin journey with 18th man duties for the mighty Queenslanders. But I think its important to make a special mention of David Shillington. The unassuming Front Rower will line up for his 5th Origin Campaign. Often left out of the limelight Shillo’s contributions at club, state and
national levels should never be underestimated. They say your best critics are your peers and Shillo has the backing of Matt Scott, Gordon Tallis and Mal Meninga and it would take a brave person to argue with that trio. Queensland are aiming for their 8th consecutive series win. To put that in perspective the last time the Blues won a series you wouldn’t have been able to gloat to your Queensland mates via Facebook or Twitter because Facebook wasn’t available in Australia at the time and Twitter didn’t even exist. That said, the Blues are in with a good shot this series against an aging Maroons squad, but unfortunately the firepower in the maroons backline should see them extend their record breaking run.
Water polo Its always great to see Canberra teams succeed in national competitions and the ACT Mens and Womens Water Polo teams did just that with the men making it back-to-back Australian Country Championships and the women going one better than last year and taking out the tournament in a tense final. The month of May was particularly amazing for the 18 year old star Justin Trabinger, not only did Justin score 3 goals in the gold medal game, he managed the unique honor of being named in 3 Australian Teams in the one month!! Justin was named in the Australian U20 team, the Australian University team and the Australian Country Mens team. Beat that Isreal Folau!!
Nathan Minerds Nathan Minerds,
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and makes the surface water logged after rain, presenting the risk of events being cancelled after a relatively small amount of wet weather.
The upgrade of the oval includes: · Removal of the existing playing surface; · Installation of a new playing surface, 1.2 meters lower than the existing surface, including a central block for seven cricket wickets; · Removal and replacement of the existing fence; · The installation of 1400 extra seats, in two new rows of seats in front of the existing front row of seats in the inner bowl, filling the space created by lowering the surface and marginally reducing the size of the playing area; · Replacing most of the existing seats; and · Construction of three dugouts for players and officials.
Upgrade for Manuka Oval
The resurfacing works will bring the surface of Manuka Oval up to a world-class standard.
A development application has been lodged for an upgrade of Manuka Oval, including resurfacing the outfield and the installation of new seats.
It will give Manuka Oval the best chance to continue to host top-class cricket fixtures in the future, and will support the ACT Government’s bid to host Cricket World Cup matches in 2015.
The current playing surface of the oval dates back to the 1920s – and has just been topped up since.
The resurfacing will be complete in time for the Prime Minister’s XI match in early 2014.
The consequent hardness of the surface and lack of adequate drainages creates an injury risk for players
New aquatic centre at Stromlo Forest Park The ACT Government is delivering on its election commitment to provide a new 50-metre indoor swimming pool in the Weston Creek/Molonglo area.
The Government announced that land adjacent to Stromlo Forest Park has been chosen as the preferred site for the new Weston Creek/Molonglo swimming pool. Molonglo and Weston Creek is a growing community and its need for more sporting and entertainment facilities is growing too. “ACT Labor will commit $33 million to build a new 50 metre indoor pool in the area. Work has already been undertaken on feasibility for a pool site at Stromlo Forest Park. ACT Labor will also investigate the feasibility of a site close to the Weston Group Centre before deciding on the best site for the district.”
As a result of this commitment the ACT Government engaged an independent consultant to investigate suitable sites near the Weston Group Centre that could accommodate an aquatic centre. The subsequent feasibility study investigated five sites, and concluded that the proposed site at Stromlo Forest Park was the most suitable location for an aquatic facility to service the needs of Weston Creek, Molonglo and nearby areas. This pool will provide an important leisure facility not only for the current residents of Weston Creek but for new residents of the developing suburbs of Molonglo Valley. The new facility’s design will incorporate similar elements to those provided at the Gungahlin Leisure Centre development, and may include: a 50-metre pool, a water play area for children, a cafe and ‘dry areas’ including a gymnasium. The final mix of inclusions will be confirmed through the detailed design process. The design phase of this facility is currently scheduled to take place in 201516 with construction of the swimming pool anticipated to start in 2016 for completion in 2018.
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Issue #24 JUNE 2013
and the British & Irish Lions, an evening of stories and everything that is great about rugby, the character of rugby and the rugby experience.
THE AUSTRALIAN RUGBY ADDRESS
BRUMBIES V BRITISH & IRISH LIONS 2001 REUNION DINNER THE GREAT HALL PARLIAMENT HOUSE 17TH JUNE 2013.
The Australian Rugby Address will be an annual event delivered by a leading member of the rugby community. It will act as a beacon, intentionally conspicuous as it provides a status report on the health of Australian rugby. We have an Australian leading the International Rugby Board, we have a new chief executive of the Australian Rugby Union in Bill Pulver, there can be no excuses. Australia should be the benchmark in world rugby, feature prominently at the Olympic Sevens and lead the promotion of women’s rugby in all forms of the game. The beacon has been lit and we are delighted and honoured to welcome The Hon Tony Abbott MP to deliver the first Australian Rugby Address.
The long-awaited 2013 Australian Tour by the British & Irish Lions, will be an epic event and an unforgettable experience for those who attend. One of the most iconic sporting teams in the world; the Lions are drawn from the best players in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales and tour once every 12 years.
BRUMBIES 2001 WHAT A YEAR, WHAT A TEAM In 2001, the Brumbies won the Super 12 Championship against the Sharks from South Africa and became the first team outside New Zealand to win the competition. They also played host to the British Lions at Bruce Stadium, only to lose in the last play of the match, 30-28.
Tony began his rugby career at St Ignatius College Sydney, one of the great rugby factories of Australia. He went on to become a Sydney University FC player in the front row with 41 1st Grade caps to his name, 174 games in total for SUFC and the 23rd SUFC recipient of the prestigious 1981 Oxford University Rhodes Scholarship.
Celebrate the greatest Brumbies team of all time, the night before this years game: Join us in the impressive Great Hall at Parliament House on Monday 17th June and hear from the players how the Wallabies beat the Lions and how the Brumbies Second XV nearly caused the greatest upset of all.
Will we see a Super XV Championship repeat in another Lions year?
The inaugural Australian Rugby Address will be held at Parliament House, prior to the Lions dinner.
Can the Brumbies beat the Lions the next day? Come to the dinner, which will relive that amazing year Join Rugby greats in a celebration of the Brumbies
For more information about the dinner and to book tickets visit www.lionsevents2013.com
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Issue #24 JUNE 2013
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The British & Irish Lions arrive: a tour 12 years in the making
The British & Irish Lions have arrived to commence their first tour of Australia since 2001. The very best players from England, Ireland, Scotland, and reigning Six Nations Champions, Wales, will embark on a six week tour that commenced in Hong Kong, where they took on the Barbarians. Lions Coach, Warren Gatland, the former Grand Slamwinning Welsh coach from New Zealand, has named a squad laden with his former charges, selecting 15 Welsh in all, 3 Scots, and originally 10 English and 9 Irish. The suspension of English hooker Dylan Hartley, and his replacement Rory Best of Ireland, swaps that balance to 10 Irish and 9 English players. There’s little doubt that Gatland’s Lions are bringing a very physical game with them to Australia, with the likes of prop Cian Healy, locks Richie Gray and Paul O’Connell, loose forwards Tom Croft and Jamie Heaslip, scrumhalf Mike Phillips, and giant backs in Jamie Roberts, Manu Tuilagi, and George North. There’s no subtlety about the Lions’ likely gameplan, with those players named just there all in the vicinity of 100-120kgs and all north of 6 feet tall in the old money. Whether they’re standing on the wings, or packing into scrums and jumping in lineouts, there is size aplenty in all across the park. 6
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STATE OF THE PLAY RUGBY UNION with Brett McKay @BMcSport
This brings a challenge in itself for Robbie Deans and the Wallabies; just how to counter such size, never mind the best way of finding their way through such an intimidating defensive line. The set piece is going to represent a hard night’s work for the Wallabies, or indeed any of the Australian sides the Lions will encounter during the nine games around Australia. Come scrum time, Gatland could pick an all Welsh front row, or an Irish-heavy front row and still be fielding a
world class combination. Ireland loosehead prop, Cian Healy has given the Wallabies a particularly horrid time in recent years, most notably in the 2011 Rugby World Cup. Likewise in the lineout, Gatland could go with a back five of Gray, O’Connell, Croft, Warburton, and Heaslip, and provide five genuine jumping options. By contrast, if the Wallabies as expected go with the three Waratahs in lock Sitaleki Timani, flanker Michael Hooper, and no.8 Wycliff Palu, they could be restricting themselves to just two jumpers, which would be rather easy to attack. In this regard, it’s been something of a disservice that all the concerned talk has been about the lack of Quade Cooper in the Australian squad, when the Lions obviously offer so many other threats that will need to be countered. Of course, Cooper could yet be picked, when six more players are added to the currently 25-man squad on June 11. Closer to home, the Lions will take on the Brumbies at Canberra Stadium on Tuesday June 18. Anyone that recalls the sea of red jerseys in the bars and pubs in Civic in the lead-up to the same clash in 2001 will know that the ACT economy is in for a nice little boost, and a great night of rugby to go with it. Whatever the results, the arrival of the British & Irish Lions shapes as a wonderful occasion on the rugby calendar, a true international tour that doesn’t occur much anymore. If you’ve got even the slightest interest in rugby, this is one series not to miss. The Lions won’t be on our shores again until 2025, so don’t miss the chance to see them while they’re here. Issue #24 JUNE 2013
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Brumbies finals-bound despite rough patch
The Brumbies and their supporters have discovered over the last month that the road to the Super Rugby playoffs isn’t going to be near as smooth as initially thought. By Brett McKay @BMcSport The team was flying high after the brutal six-tries-toone demolition of the Western Force, but over the next few weeks learned the harsh lesson of reality at the hands of some long time rivals.
The win in Auckland, coupled with consecutive losses by the Reds in South Africa leaves the Brumbies in the box seat top the Australian conference, despite those losses last month.
“Yeah, definitely this season, probably alongside the Stormers game [a 35-22 loss in Cape Town, in late March]. They’re a quality outfit, they’ve got All Blacks littered throughout their team. It was a tough day, and I think we learnt a lot of lessons out of that. You can’t go into those games and not fire all of your shots, you’ve got to make sure every moment’s important.
That Crusaders game also saw the return of All Black flyhalf Dan Carter from injury, and he proceeded to put on a masterclass of game management, as the seven-time Champions ran down, and then overtook the Brumbies at home on a sunny Sunday afternoon. The Brumbies quickly got a sense they were playing genuine title contenders. “Yeah, it really did,” Mowen says. “They’ve got guys throughout that are big games players; they’ve played and World Cup Finals, won Bledisloe Cups, won TriNations [now the Rugby Championship], so they know those big moments and how to control them. “That’s the experiences you want. You want to be pitted up against those blokes and those moments [in order to learn the lessons]. They came out with the result on that day, but if we happen to meet them again, hopefully we get the next one.”
The Brumbies remain confident within their systems to take that next step into the playoffs that evaporated from under them at the last moment in 2012. The lessons of that disappointing final round display are driving the side to make amends in 2013.
12- or 14-week block [when the bye comes], or if it’s two weeks in, you load your training accordingly. “It was a good time to get away from rugby, and just refresh. We do ask a lot of the guys, to live in each other’s pockets, basically, and get the best of them through contact hours [as a squad], so it was a good chance for them to get away and just relax.” In the second Hume Highway derby for the season, the Brumbies led at halftime at ANZ Stadium in Sydney, and looked to be on top of the Waratahs in the breakdown contest, but the game got away from them after the break. Some injuries to key personnel didn’t help (Christian Lealiifano, George Smith , and Pat McCabe all went off), and the Brumbies couldn’t overcome the fast-finishing ‘Tahs.
Mowen says the bye came at the right time for the side, and allowed them the chance to recharge. They also got some time away from each other, having spent considerable time together as a group since the first bye in Round 3.
“Yeah, we had a really sleepy twenty minutes after halftime. There were lots of opportunities there where we could’ve wrestled a bit of momentum, and we were probably too passive in those moments. I’ve got to pay credit to Berrick Barnes, because he really took control in that time, and put points on the board from his boot, and then put [former Brumby, Michael] Hooper and himself over for tries.
“Off the back of nine weeks straight, with a lot of travel in there, it was a good time to have it. I’ve said it a lot, but the byes come at a good time if you plan well for them in the preseason. So it doesn’t matter if it’s a
“He did really well making sure he took those opportunities to create some momentum for them, so that’s a lesson we’ll take out of that match as well,” Mowen said.
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Coach Jake White was very happy with the win over the Blues, coming as it did after the disappointing results in the previous games, but also recognising that the biggest challenges in 2013 lay ahead. “After the disappointment of last week it was important we got things right tonight. Even in the rain the Blues were willing to run it from anywhere,” White said after the game. “We’re probably not where we need to be yet, there is plenty to work on ... but I’m pleased to be leaving Auckland with a win.”
Brumbies Captain, Ben Mowen, spoke to PLAY recently and reflected back on those tough losses to the Crusaders (30-23 loss on May 3) and the Waratahs (2822 loss on May 18), and spoke of the challenges that lay ahead for his young side. He started off by agreeing that the Crusaders presented the biggest challenge faced by the Brumbies this season.
“And that’s something we spoke a lot about coming out of that game, but in saying that, it was also a theme that came out of the Waratahs game that’s been brought up again, just to focus on ensuring those big moments are important.”
An impressive win against the Blues on a very wet night in Auckland, came on the back of a superb 15man performance, but there were none better than scrumhalf Nic White, fresh from being overlooked for Robbie Deans’ initial 25-man squad to face the British and Irish Lions later this month. White provided front-foot ball all night, as well as scoring an opportune try that had him sliding in the wet a good five metres before the try line.
“The Stormers game, and the Blues games last year, are the only games in the last two years we’ve lost by more than seven points,” Mowen says. “We’re not a side that doesn’t trust our systems, and we’re not a side that gives up in contests and that’s where you take a lot of confidence out.” “We’ve got a good bunch of competitors, and that good to draw on. We’ve done the hard work, it’s all banked. There’s a lot of belief that’s been banked as well, and we’ve just got to make sure over the remaining rounds we make those moments count, and it’s very easy to turn that around.” Concerns about the discipline within the side linger for supporters, particularly with the Brumbies having been among the most penalised teams all year. Mowen puts that down to the constant physicality the team is displaying, chiefly at the breakdown, and suggests it’s not becoming an issue. “No, I don’t think so. Rugby’s set up to be a game all about contests; that’s what separates it from League, where their game is not about having contests. “Our goal is to make sure we are in every contest, and that’s going to force decisions [from referees]. Some go against you and a lot go with you. What we don’t want to do is allow teams to just play the way they want to play without pressure. We’re never comfortable conceding penalties, but as long as the enthusiasm’s there and the intent is right, we want to keep bringing the contest.” Brumbies fans around the region are certainly hoping that’s the case. All the way to the playoffs. Issue #24 JUNE 2013
long awaited showdown
The stage is set for both the Tuggeranong Vikings and the Canberra Royals in the month of June, as both sides look destined to meet each other in the John I Dent Cup grand final. By Joshua Matic @MaticJm
While the Vikings have strolled in all of their games besides a tough 19-17 win over Wests in round three, the Royals have had a number of extremely tight games where they have had to wipe off a deficit. They were forced to come from behind to beat the Gungahlin Eagles in round seven, where they triumphed 19-12, but most impressive was their win over Queanbeyan a week earlier. After spending most of the second half in Queanbeyan’s half of the field, and being down to just 13 men for a short period, they were able to defend a barrage of attack and score two tries within the final five minutes to wipe an 11-point deficit. That game they won 38-37, and Ingram had hardly been happier. “It’s just courageous. They’re a special group I think, and they’re starting to show that,” he said after that win. “Those boys had belief. It was just an incredible win.” The likes of halves Pedro Rolando and Craig McMahon have been in fine form for the Royals, while Jordan Rapana and Sokai Tai have been outstanding as well. The Vikings have an endless list of players who have stood up for them this season. James Proctor, Tim Cree, Rodney Iona, Sione Taula and Zack Holmes are just some names that stand out.
Image: Shaughn Carney
While the competition’s decider is not until August, both sides have played with great dominance during the first half of it, and were all set for the game of the season against each other in round 10. While Tuggeranong are the clear competition favourites as the only undefeated side so far, the Royals have shown much potential to put the pressure on the defending champions.
Besides a round two hiccup against the Wests Lions where they were comfortably beaten by 18 points, they have muscled up and proved unbeatable since. Until the start of May, they were in the midst of an extremely tight middle of the competition with the Wests Lions, Gungahlin Eagles and Queanbeyan Whites, but the way in which coach Russell Ingram has used his men as a collective unit has worked a treat.
p a r w t n e D John I o t t h g u o r b proudly you by
Issue #24 JUNE 2013
The squad has been held back with some injuries of late, but still refuse to lose on the field, and they are deserved premiership favourites yet again. Making up the middle of the competition are the Whites with three wins, and the Eagles and Wests Lions with four each. Eastern Suburbs are travelling ok with their two winsthe most they have had in two years, while the cellardwellars are the Uni-Norths Owls who are still win-less.
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Image: GETTY
Origin call-up a just reward
Giant prop Brett White admitted the slow starts were a particular issue so far this season.
Despite an inconsistent first half of the season, the Canberra Raiders were rewarded with two much deserved State of Origin game one selections, with standout centre Blake Ferguson making his debut.
“We’re trying to work out why, and how to fix that, and we’ll put a lot of effort into that,” he said.
By Joshua Matic
“If you know, let us know,” he said.
@MaticJm
When asked of how to fix the side’s horror road form, White struggled to answer.
It has been a massive turn around in fortunes for the scintillating centre, whose career was almost in jeopardy after being involved in sacked fullback Josh Dugan’s infamous rooftop photo.
It is this combination of strength, speed and ability that has impressed Daley, and is something NSW have missed during Queensland’s seven year Origin dominance.
“It’s opposite to last year. We were really good on the road, and had our problems at home, and we put a lot of focus into making sure we were up for home games, and unfortunately our away games have slipped.”
But after a one week suspension followed by a purple patch of career best form, ‘Fergo’ has almost cemented the label of being the NRL’s most dangerous outside back.
While Shillington, a regular Queenslander, was selected in the starting side, the brutal form of teammate Josh Papalii was also rewarded, with the Auckland born forward being named 19th man for the Maroons.
While much of the problem of the slow starts has been conceding tries on the edges, fellow prop Dane Tilse said it has been very much a team effort, and no individuals are to blame.
While NSW coach Laurie Daley selected him on the wing, he has been in devastating form for the Raiders at right centre, and has been a shining light in the side’s inconsistent season.
Meanwhile...
He said coach David Furner had identified areas for the Green Machine to work on at training.
The planets have come into line for Ferguson, as have the stats that matter. The purple patch started in round eight against the Melbourne Storm at AAMI Park. While scoring two tries, Ferguson also managed six tackle breaks to go with his two line breaks, and since then, has been just as tough to handle. In the 44-14 home thrashing of Newcastle, he scored three tries after running for 137 metres and breaking five tackles. In two losses and a bye since, he still managed a try, and was outstanding against Manly in round 11 with five tackle busts and 172 metres. 10
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Slow starts have been wreaking havoc on the Canberra Raiders at the half way point of the NRL season, and if the green machine want to be contenders come September, they must improve in key statistical areas. Of course it has not all been negative in 2013. The likes of Ferguson, Jack Wighton, Terry Campese, Josh McCrone, and Papalii have all launched into some of their best form. Arguably the sides best performance of the year was the home thrashing of the Newcastle Knights in round five, a 44-14 result where both Ferguson and winger Sandor Earl scored hat tricks. But slow starts and just one win from seven attempts on the road have cost them dearly, and while statistical areas such as errors and possession have improved in the last month of footy, consistency will be key in the coming weeks.
“We can be a bit better in kicking at the corners, and that’ll help our defensive sets, and just understanding when we’re under pressure, and taking the right options and making it easier for the team,” said Tilse. “When they [opponents] get a try on the edge, its not just the edges fault, a lot of the time it can come from the guys in the middle of the slab not having the correct spacing and letting them [opponents] be in the right spots.” “We’ll just get back to work on it at training and getting our starting positions right, and that might help the edge.” The Raiders marked the half way stage of their season at home against the Brisbane Broncos on Monday June 10. Issue #24 JUNE 2013
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NRL) and this jersey design is a celebration of the progression of the local competition developing into a national sporting organisation. The colours of blue and gold are the traditional sporting colours of the ACT and were taken from the national blue and gold appearing on the wreath of the Australian Coat of Arms. The choice of colours maintains existing traditions, reflects a link with national history and preserves heraldic tradition and practice. Raiders Captain Terry Campese said the Raiders were proud to be recognised as one of the most iconic teams in the ACT region and wearing the Centenary strip was a way the club could help acknowledge the Centenary of Canberra.
inspired by the past, Canberra Raiders release Centenary Strip The Canberra Raiders will be joining in on Canberra’s Centenary Celebrations, when they wear a special Centenary Jersey against the Broncos on June 10 (Monday) at Canberra Stadium.
representative rugby league teams which were established in the 1970’s. Before this time players from the ACT represented the region via the Monaro representative team.
The jersey design is based on a mix of the early representative strips of the first official ACT based
The Canberra Raiders were established in 1982 after gaining submission into the NSW Rugby League (now
“It’s a huge year for Canberra with the Centenary celebrations and to be able to help celebrate by wearing this jersey is something I know the players will be very proud of,” Campese said. “The Raiders are proud to be from Canberra and this jersey can help us celebrate our heritage.”
The Canberra Raiders Centenary of Canberra jerseys are certain to become collectors items and are available for purchase through the Raiders Official merchandiser Jerseys Megastore at www.jerseys.com.au or by calling (02) 6230 0504.
JERSEYS MEGASTORE The Canberra Raiders Official Merchandiser www.jerseys.com.au
In Store Now Canberra Heritage Jerseys Adults $159 Kids $129
Canberra Raiders V Brisbane Broncos Monday, 10th June 2013 *Price includes GST
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Queanbeyan Blues surge to top of Canberra Raiders Cup
With just one loss after six rounds of the Canberra Raiders Cup, the Queanbeyan Blues are firming as the premiership favourites as they look to strengthen their grip on the competition. By Joshua Matic @MaticJm As the competition reaches the half-way mark on June 16, the Blues entered the competition’s two week representative break with arguably the best win of their season in round six. The rivalry they share with neighbours Queanbeyan Kangaroos is well known. With Bragging rights on the line, their battles are always close, brutal and vocal. The Blues triumphed over last year’s grand finalists for the first time in 18 months in a 44-12 smashing which realistically signified their intent to take the competition for the first time since 2008. Coach and Canberra Raiders legend Simon Woolford said his men went from strength to strength in rounds five and six against the Tuggeranong Bushrangers and the Kangaroos. While they have amassed 86 points in their last two games, he has been most impressed with their defence. “It’s always an interesting game against the Roos. You don’t need to concentrate on getting the players up for the game. You know they’re going to be ready to go,” he said. “Defensively, we’ve worked really hard the last couple of weeks, and I think that work we’re doing on the training paddock is starting to pay dividends.” Issue #24 JUNE 2013
Former Raiders halfback Marc Herbert has starred for the Blues so far this season, and was instrumental in the win over the Kangaroos. Fellow 2013 recruit Tyler Stevens had been a lesserknown shining light though. The rugby union convert centre has amassed an incredible 12 tries in just six games of rugby league after having represented the Australian Schoolboys in union. The only down side to the Blues lately has been a leg injury to former Raiders forward Trevor Thurling, who played virtually on one leg against the Kangaroos.
Bulls, and to be beaten by the Scholars in the final few minutes is certainly a good effort,” he said. “I think they’re on the improve. There’s no doubt about it, so we won’t be taking them lightly.” Meanwhile, June will also see the first grand final rematch between the Kangaroos and Scholars. The Kangaroos are so far experiencing their worst season in four years, and have lost inspirational captain/coach Aaron Gorrell for the season for the second straight year after he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. Gorrell conceded after the defeat to the Blues, when the injury occurred, that his playing career was almost certainly over as a result. “I certainly got no enjoyment seeing Goz get hurt, that’s for sure,” said Woolford. “He’s done so much for the competition. Having seen him in three grand finals in a row and to win two of them certainly can’t be underestimated.
Woolford was hopeful the fortnight break would give him the chance to return to full fitness.
Both 2012 grand finalists have performed below expectations this season, but given their incredible rivalry of recent years, this game could make or break the finals hopes of either side.
Whilst on paper it will be seen as first versus last in the competition, the Blues’ round seven clash with the West Belconnen Warriors will have more anticipation than expected.
As usual, the middle of the competition is tight, giving the Scholars, Kangaroos, Bushrangers and Goulburn Workers Bulldogs the chance to do some leap-frogging in June.
The Warriors found themselves in an identical position last season, and got their first win over the Blues at Seiffert Oval.
The Woden Valley Rams currently hold second spot, and are the only side to beat the Blues so far this season.
Woolford is weary of the improving outfit who lost by just two points to defending premiers Belconnen United Scholars in the last five minutes of play. “They gave the Roos a good run for their money out in Queanbeyan, they were only just beaten by Gungahlin
The Rams have just missed the finals in recent years, and will be looking for improved consistency to break that barrier in 2013. “For us, we’d like to finish it off so we’re not chasing the pack as opposed to being on top of the pack,” said Rams half and captain Josh Burns. playcanberra.com.au
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The West Coast Eagles were bottom of the ladder with a woeful record of just four wins for the season. The very next year the Eagles jumped from last place on the ladder to top-four, winning 16 games and making their way to a preliminary final. Port Adelaide’s hot-start to 2013 cannot be discounted either - with their brilliant 5-0 start - given how shambolic the Power were on and off the field in 2012, the comparison between the Demons and the Power is rather apt. Something that Melbourne definitely does have in their favour is a front six that on paper looms as one of the most potentially formidable attacking forward lines in the competition. Collingwood recruit Chris Dawes, Mitch Clark, Jeremy Howe, Colin Sylvia and Aaron Davey offer strong marking ability, skill at ground level and proven goal kicking capability. Then add to that prodigious young gun Jesse Hogan - who will debut for the club in 2014 - and suddenly the Dees have some forward half presence. Unfortunately for Neeld injury has robbed him of the chance to showcase both Dawes and Clark in the same team this season. However, in the absence of Clark the influence of Dawes cannot be understated, with the 2010 premiership player with Collingwood already impressing the Melbourne coaching staff with his leadership both on and off the field.
PATIENCE NEEDS TO BE A VIRTUE Why short-term pain may lead to long-term gain for the Demons. Has there been a poorer side in recent memory than the Melbourne Demons? Not since the dark days that lead to Fitzroy’s demise from the competition in 1996 have we seen such ineptitude on a weekly basis. At the conclusion of round 10, the Dees have an average losing margin of 76 points, the second lowest attendance rate at their games in 20 years and the lowest ranking competition wide in almost every key statistic that the AFL record. Key recruitment policies have backfired, with Cam Pederson, David Rodan, Shannon Byrnes and Tom Gilles all failing to have the impact that the Demons believed they could offer. Compounded by a collarbone injury to co-captain Jack Grimes that will leave him on the sidelines for the majority of the season, as well as a reoccurrence of star forward Mitch Clark’s troublesome foot aliment that ruined his 2012 season, two of Melbourne’s best players will miss significant periods of the season. 2013 is the winter of Melbourne fans’ discontent. Unfortunately for embattled coach Mark Neeld, the buck seemingly stops with him, but while his hardline stance may have forced 2012 senior listed players in 14
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Jared Rivers and Brent Moloney to walk away from the club at the end of the season, it is this new approach that will bring the Demons back to where they want to be. While the recruitment of the mature talent they acquired from other clubs may not be having the desired impact, Neeld’s policy was to not overexpose his young team to the unforgiving landscape of AFL football. Fortunately for Demons fans, no matter how bleak it gets; there’s always hope. The Dees only have to cast their minds back to the 2010 season to see how quickly things can change for a team with the right attitude.
Dawes has been in an elite environment and knows what it takes to get to the top. His experience will be invaluable in getting the Demons out of their predicament. Leadership is something the Demons have lacked for some time now, and given their attitude towards recruitment of players through the draft, player-driven direction on and off the field is something they need now more than ever. Mark Neeld spoke on radio after his side’s loss to Hawthorn that he never had a set number of wins he wanted to achieve this season, and while he did recruit some mature players to help fix gaping holes in the Demons’ list, his drafting shows his desire is prudence rather than immediate impact. Jimmy Toumpas was the Demons first pick in the 2012 draft (pick four). Toumpas had hip surgery as a junior before he was drafted to Melbourne that incapacitated him for several months, with Neeld acutely aware the star youngster would take time to find his feet at senior level. Coupled with the drafting of Hogan who is ineligible to play in 2013 due to his age and it is evident that Melbourne’s drafting strategy is centred around longterm goals rather than appeasing the masses as quickly as possible. Right now it must be hard for Melbourne fans to see light at the end of the tunnel, but history proves how quickly things can change in football. If the Dees have an injury-free 2014, anything can happen. Issue #24 JUNE 2013
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Battle for hearts and minds The day before the GWS Giants took on the Gold Coast Suns in Canberra for round five of the AFL, I got out of the office, sat in the stands and ate my lunch as the Giants had a training session. By Chris Young It was a pretty run of the mill affair, and their visit attracted local media to the ground, with a number of the young Giants interviewed alongside coach Kevin Sheedy.
The Melbourne Demons and the Western Bulldogs are in a similarly perilous position on the ladder in 2013, yet only have 32,268 and 27,457 members respectively.
Alongside their media commitments, the squad posed for a few photos with the family of a young boy who is suffering from leukaemia.
I say ‘only’, but Melbourne and the Bulldogs (formerly the once mighty Footscray), have both been in existence for well over 80 years.
He might have been five or six years old, and he was clearly excited as all of the players came through and spoke to him.
Melbourne was one of the foundation clubs of the VFL in 1897, while Footscray joined the league in 1925.
Quite a number hung around after their training session to play some kick to kick with the young fans who were there to watch them train. It was a simple act that got me thinking about how GWS are trying to impose themselves on fans and the community. At the time of writing, the Giants have five more members than their new franchise counterparts in the Gold Coast Suns. This doesn’t sound like much, but bear in mind the Suns have been playing AFL for a full season more than the Suns. The Giants’ figure of 12,128 members becomes more impressive if we compare it to some of the truly established AFL clubs. 16
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the usual kick-to-kick time Manuka Oval allows after games. This determination from Giants management to make sure their fans are familiar with their side of up-and coming stars helps keep Giants members patient, resilient, and above all excited. Even a quick glance at their website is telling. Aside from the regular match highlights and interviews, the amount of content that features and is produced by the Giants players is exceptional. Simple efforts such as video coverage of an annual table tennis tournament, or of players interviewing and profiling each other can go a long way to making new club members and fans feel like part of the team.
While every club has their ups and downs, the Demons are one club in real trouble with its fan base.
The Demons could probably be excused for wanting to fly under the radar at the moment, but the Giants attitude towards their fans is far more positive.
Images of white flags being held up at games, of supporters heckling their team post-game, are signs of a team in turmoil.
The Giants content is often player directed and focuses on the relationships between the players.
While Melbourne has a certain amount of history to live up to, the Giants take to the field each week hoping to write their own history. As a huge St. Kilda fan, I was also at Manuka when the Giants suffered a heavy loss to the Saints in round three. Losing by over ten goals, the Giants had every right to stay in the rooms before quickly jumping on the bus to get out of town. Instead, they stayed at the oval, and came onto the ground to sign autographs and meet fans during
It shows that Giants players really do believe in what Kevin Sheedy is teaching them, and that they are really enjoying their football. It’s all well and good to support a club, but with the entire AFL being a much more corporate entity now than it was after its inception in 1990, it’s now more important than ever to have a healthy number of members. The GWS Giants are well on their way to being a culturally and financially successful club off the field, as they continue to work towards their on-field success. Issue #24 JUNE 2013
NEAFL Eastern Conference representative FOCUS
Speed and versatility are shaping up to be the keys for Guy Cannon’s NEAFL Eastern Conference representative side. Cannon’s youthful side will take on a side from Tasmania on June 10 at Skoda Stadium in a curtain raiser for the GWS Giants vs Geelong Cats AFL game. “The side that we’ve picked is a really good blend of flexibility and experience.” Cannon said.
“What we’ve really been after is versatility, being able to play on talls, smalls, and retain the strong ability to rebound the ball the back half that all the players in this team have.” Cannon was impressed by the amount of improvement that had been shown by all sides in the competition, which has led to the ledger being close to square in games against the typically stronger Northern conference sides. “There’s definitely more confidence among the Eastern side when they play the Northern sides now, and I think the improvement is indicative of the growing depth we’re seeing in the league.
“We identified a few things we thought were strong aspects of our eastern conference competition, the main one being speed, and we are intent on showcasing that.”
“Those wins against traditionally stronger opposition will certainly have an impact on the side, I have no doubt about that.”
All the non AFL-affiliated sides have players representing them, with Sydney University among the sides contributing the most players. “Despite their spot on the ladder, the Uni have been playing really well,” Cannon said.
by Belconnen’s Matt Lokan and the Hills Eagle’s Jamie Vlatko.
“Players like Tim Barton and Ryan Bottin-Noonan have really stood out to us for not only having speed around the contest have having the ability to use the ball in a disciplined and effective way.”
The midfield boasts some of the more experienced NEAFL Eastern players on the team, with James Bennett one of the key players in the middle.
The forward line is an assembly of some of the most prolific goal-kickers in the NEAFL to date, spearheaded
“John Van Meurs will probably be our key defender, he’ll be playing on whoever is dangerous at any point in the game,” Cannon said.
An interesting approach has been taken with the backline, with selectors opting to favour extra leg-speed over including a true tall defender.
I want a place that has the biggest schnitty in town.
It’ll be a tough task against one of the stronger footballing states in Tasmania, but Cannon believes if the players are committed enough that they are capable of causing an upset. “They’ve got a really strong and established footy culture down there, but our boys take pride in their teams and pride in the Eastern conference as well. “I’m confident they’ll go out there and be absolutely hungry for that win.”
I know a place.
What a difference...
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how, finding the back of the net in the second match against the Olympic champions, USA. The result may not have gone Australia’s way on that occasion, the US led by a rampant Alex Morgan won 6-2, but there were encouraging signs in Colorado. This built on the superb performance in Los Angeles a few days previously when the States squeezed home 2-1. Striker Lisa De Vanna displayed all the hallmarks of her undoubted World Class talent in that match, scoring a remarkable goal, before also finding the target in the return fixture. The tour had kicked off with a routine 4-0 win over Haiti, which included three goals in the opening fifteen minutes, before Michelle Heyman added the fourth late on.
Westfield Matildas to face Football Ferns for Centenary Cup
The Westfield Matildas welcome New Zealand’s Football Ferns to McKellar Park on June 16th for the second of the two matches between the teams following Wednesday’s game behind closed doors at the AIS. By Russ Gibbs With both teams building towards the 2015 FIFA World Cup in Canada, these Trans-Tasman friendly fixtures are doubly important in terms of preparation. Throw in a Cup and all of a sudden interest is multiplied. For this afternoon, at the home of Westfield W-League club Canberra United, the old rivals will clash for the ‘Centenary Cup’. The fixture is part of the year-long celebration in the National Capital as Canberra celebrates its 100th birthday with a number of events in the arts, cultural and sporting arenas. Add in that this will be the first time that new Dutch Coach Hesterine De Reus has overseen her charges in an official international capacity and we should be all set for a humdinger of a match.
De Reus has certainly made her presence felt since taking over from the USA-bound Tom Sermanni and has handed the captaincy to experienced striker Katie Gill, assisted by Brisbane Roar’s multi-talented and much-decorated Claire Polkinghorne. The Westfield Westfield Matildas have congregated in a number of camps since De Reus’ arrival, but nothing beats playing a full-blown match and that’s something this squad hasn’t done since last September when they visited North America for a three-match tour that proved to be Sermanni’s swansong. It also marked the retirement from the international scene of Westfield Westfield Matildas legend Sarah Walsh and the Sydney FC striker departed in the only way she knows
Whilst the first match in Canberra is behind closed doors the second fixture, on Sunday 16th June, will be open to the public at McKellar Park in Belconnen, home of Canberra United Westfield W-League fixtures, as the two teams contest the Centenary Cup with kick off at 2pm. Tickets for the match are available through Capital Football. BY PHONE: via telephone on (02) 6175 7107. Telephone orders will need to be accompanied by a valid credit card. IN PERSON: at the office located at Football House, 2/3 Phipps Close, Deakin, ACT during office hours – Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm. BY E-MAIL: by completing the ticket purchase formavailable from www.capitalfootball. com.au and sending to junior@capitalfootball.com.au Tickets ordered by telephone will need to be collected in person from Football House by Thursday 13th June or at the ticket box at McKellar on match day. A limited number of Gold Grandstand tickets will be available on a first in, first served basis with a maximum of FOUR Gold tickets allowed per customer. A Gold ticket will guarantee the holder a seat in the Grandstand. Green General Admission tickets will 18
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By contrast the Football Ferns have been in action as recently as March, competing in the Cyprus Cup and enjoying some excellent results. They kicked off their campaign in Europe with a 1-0 win over Scotland with the winning goal netted by 22-year-old striker Betsy Hassett, and followed that up with a 2-0 success over Italy with Hannah Wilkinson and Anna Green scoring. A 1-3 reverse to a strong England team, experienced striker Amber Hearn bagging a 30th international goal, brought their run of form to a juddering halt, but they were back in the winner’s circle not long afterwards completing their tour with a 2-1 win over Switzerland. Hassett scored her 3rd goal at this level whilst Wilkinson managed her 9th. At the conclusion of this fixture both teams face differing challenges. New Zealand will face the daunting prospect of a fixture against the current FIFA World Cup holders Japan, before embarking on their FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign through Oceania, where they are hot favourites to progress. Meanwhile De Reus’ Westfield Matildas head to Europe with international matches planned against Netherlands and France, an intriguing proposition, before returning to prepare for the 2014 AFC Asian Cup where, as reigning champions, Australia has direct entry. Before thoughts of tours and World Cup qualification the Centenary Cup is there to be won this afternoon. Who’ll get their hands on this piece of silverware? We can’t wait to find out.
give fans the opportunity to sit in new bleacher seating to be installed at McKellar Park in time for the game or to take a deck chair or picnic rug to sit on the grassed area. Green GA tickets will also be available for purchase on game day from the ticket box.
MATCH DETAILS
Westfield Westfield Matildas (9) v New Zealand (20) Sunday 16th June 2013 McKellar Park, Belconnen, ACT Kick-Off 2:00pm Gates Open: 1.00pm
TICKET PRICES
Gold Admission (All Grandstand Seating) – $20 – Limited Availability and no concession General Green Admission (for bleachers or grass area) – $15 Concession (Pensioner, Student) – $10 (unless they are occupying a Gold Grandstand seat) Children under-12 – FREE (unless they are occupying a Gold Grandstand seat) Official Match Program – $2 Issue #24 JUNE 2013
Subway® unites with Kanga Cup
The Kanga Cup, in association with Capital Football, is pleased to announce Subway® as an Official Event Partner for the 2013 competition, the 23rd time that the iconic event has been held.
of local clubs participating, Subway is proud to be supporting the local sporting community promoting its values of eat fresh, get fit and stay healthy, also core values of the Kanga Cup. Fourteen Subway® stores from Canberra have come banded together to sponsor the event with the local franchises offering VIP cards to participants, free delivery to grounds and discounts in store throughout the week of July 7th-12th with future offers for Canberra based participants throughout the year.
The Kanga Cup is the LARGEST International Youth Football Tournament in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the biggest in the World with its philosophy of ‘Uniting the Youth of the World through Football’. Anthony Prior, Subway franchisee in Canberra and a member of the Subway Southern NSW Advertising Board, was pleased to become a part of what is one of the most enjoyable weeks of the football calendar and something that participants from all around Australia and overseas look forward to every year. “Subway® Restaurants Canberra Franchisee’s have banded together to support the 2013 Kanga Cup,” Prior, who is a franchisee for Subway® Canberra House, confirmed. “The Kanga Cup has grown every year to become a large international event for Canberra, and we hope this sponsorship can assist Capital Football and the 230 teams of junior players to put on a great display of skill and sportsmanship. The tournament and football in general is a fantastic
“We are pleased to welcome Subway® on board as an Official Event Partner,” Tournament Director Cassie Behrens commented. “With their approach to healthy eating we feel they are a great match for the competition and we look forward to continuing to work with Subway® as an ongoing sponsor for future years.”
fit with Subway and our healthy, fresh and active philosophy. Subway® is very proud to be involved.” With competitions open to any club, school, association or community group that is part of the international football family, the event is fully sanctioned by the Football Federation Australia and Asian Football Confederation. With a number
The Kanga Cup sees over 230 teams of 3700 players take part in over 650 games in just 5 days!!
Champions aren’t made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them. A desire, a dream, a vision. - Muhammad Ali
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An immensely popular figure in the local community courtesy of her triple WNBL Championship stint between 2006 and 2010, Bishop will be with the Capitals for either the 2013-14 and 2015-16 or 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons depending on her renewed deal with current French Club Perpignan. Bishop played her first European season with Perpignan in France’s top professional league (Ligue féminine de basketball) this year, averaging almost 12 points and 5.5 rebounds per game over the 25 game season. That international exposure came directly after her Olympic debut for the Opals Bronze Medal winning team in London and short stints at Dandenong (201011) and Adelaide (2011-12) in the WNBL. An American WNBA Championship earned as part of Seattle’s 2010 title run gives her an array of experiences in the world’s best competitive environments rarely able to be matched by any 24 year old.
Bishop to Capitals equals checkmate
The Tradies Canberra Capitals have continued their stellar off-season rebuild by announcing that London Olympian Abby Bishop has signed a three year deal to play in the Nation’s Capital for two of the next three WNBL seasons.
Capitals Head Coach Carrie Graf is naturally excited about seeing Abby return to the city that has become home for her and where she started her rise to prominence on the world stage. “Abby is a passionate and determined young woman who fans and team mates alike have a great rapport with. Her world class skill set and feel for the game have continued to evolve and the Capitals family is thrilled to be able to bring her leadership home for two of the next three seasons.” Graf said.
In the end though, it’s hard to argue with the merits of the team selected as an all time Gunners roster: Guards: Mick Barlow – Wests club junior product who played 121 games for the Gunners averaging 17 ppg and also played for the Cannons in the NBL. Jamie Pearlman – Norths club junior product, 113 Gunners games and an NBL star with the Cannons. Zlatko Todorovski – A Canberra junior product, over 200 games averaging 12 ppg and still counting as a member of this year’s team. Jeff deLaveaga – Played a single season for the Gunners, but what a season it was, averaging 41 ppg, 6 rpg, 4 apg and 2 spg.
25 years of good memories Saturday 25th of May was a memorable night for Gunners past and present as the team’s 25th Anniversary celebration dinner was held at Woden Tradies Club. Amongst all the entertainment, reminiscing and retelling of hundreds of old and newly tinged stories, there was an unmistakable reminder of just how much the small community based club has meant to so many people for so long. Players from past editions of the team flew in from far and wide to be part of the festivities and many of those special guests were honoured during the evening when the Gunners 25 year Team was officially unveiled. The difficulty facing the 25 Year Team selection panel was best exemplified by the names who missed out on the select team; stars such as Adam Kendrick, Dedrick Brooks and David Monck all narrowly failing to earn a berth despite fitting the eligibility criteria of having completed at least one full season in Gunners colours. 20
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Forwards: Grant Keys - SEABL MVP 2004, four-time SEABL All Star Five, a member of the SEABL All 30 year team, averaged 23 ppg and 9 rpg and current member of the Gunners coaching staff. Dan Richardson – A Norths club junior product who played 248 games for the Gunners, averaging 12 ppg and 6 rpg, and was captain of the 2003 East Conference championship team. Anthony Petrie – Two-time SEABL MVP and All Star Five, played over 100 games for the Gunners, averaging 20 ppg and 10 rpg, and a current member of the Aussie Boomers squad. Justin Withers - Part of the inaugural Gunners team aged just 18; averaged 23 ppg and 10 rpg, before moving on to play in the NBL for the Wollongong Hawks, Canberra Cannons and Sydney Kings and an Australian representative Centres: Paul Denman - SEABL All Star Five in 1998, current leader in Gunners games played (250 games); averaged 18 ppg and 9 rpg. Murray Shiels - 173 games for the Gunners, averaging 13 ppg and 11 rpg; the grand old man of the Gunners affectionately known as Chewbacka. The last piece of the 25 Year team puzzle was in many ways an obvious choice, despite the honour role of elite coaches who have filled the lead position for the Gunners over a quarter of a century. Brad Barnes, who led the team to their only SEABL title in 2003 and until recently was an integral part of the Board of Basketball ACT, in many ways epitomises exactly what the club is about. His keen eye for detail, modest yet competitive outlook and intelligent passion for this unique chapter of Canberra’s sporting history made him the Gunners Coach for this mythical 25 Year Team. Issue #24 JUNE 2013
A visit to Raiders HQ teaches young men some valuable lessons.
After the tour, the young guys and their mentors settled down for a game of touch footy under lights on the oval. Despite recovering from injury, Haydon Hodge joined in and showed the boys just how football should be played.
On a cold autumn evening in May, some twenty young teenage guys and their mentors made their way out to Raiders HQ for a tour of the facilities and to meet some of their idols. Raiders’ Commercial Manager Jason Mathie was on hand with Charlotte Anneveld to give out Raiders’ “showbags” to the Menslink crew, while players Shannon Boyd and Haydon Hodge welcomed everyone. Each month Menslink takes the young guys in the mentoring program out to an event – it might be fun, educational, challenging or all three – with activities ranging from flying foxes, Lazerzone, movie and pizza nights, surfing, kayaking and sailing. The visit to Raiders HQ was no exception.
“The other lesson the young guys learned from the Raiders was the need for a backup plan in life. Even the best players have injuries that can sometimes cut short a promising career. We all need to make sure we’ve got some extra training or life skills to get us through those tough times.”
Menslink Program Manager Ben Triglone said the evening really gave the young guys an insight into what it was like being a professional player and provided some valuable life lessons to both sporting and non-sporting guys alike.
As the Menslink crew toured the Raiders gym, the young guys weren’t just impressed by the amazing size of the weights the players can lift, or the individual records plastered around the walls. They also learned how the Raiders coaches set down team targets for every game they play; encouraging the players to focus on improving the small things each time to make them better and better. Again, a pretty valuable lesson for young blokes learning how to set goals and break them down into something achievable that they can focus on.
“The Raiders talked about how much hard work was involved to get to the top of their game and the really tough selection criteria to make it into the NRL squad,” he said. “We learnt that talent will only get you so far in life – you’ve got to combine it with hard work and commitment if you want to succeed.”
This event is just another small example of how Menslink and the Raiders are getting together to help young blokes in our community. The Menslink mentoring program is now in its tenth year of providing volunteer adult mates and role models for young guys who might be a bit socially isolated or just need another positive adult bloke in their life. A couple of players have put up their hand to see how they can help out the next generation of young guys. The Raiders are also involved in Menslink’s Silence is Deadly campaign which encourages young guys at school to speak to their mates and talk to a counsellor if they are having hassles in their lives. Both NRL and Under 20s players have been fantastic in talking about their own problems in life and how important it is to talk to mates, family and professional people to get through life’s hassles. More info is available at www. silenceisdeadly.com.au On Saturday 15th June, Menslink has been selected as the match day charity for the Raiders Panthers game. Menslink volunteers will be giving out free thundersticks and info cards to supporters on the day, so come along, support your favourite team and a great local charity More information about Menslink for volunteers, young men and their families is available from www.menslink.org.au.
HELPING YOUNG MEN ACHIEVE THEIR POTENTIAL FOR OVER TEN YEARS FREE COUNSELLING AND MENTORING FOR YOUNG MEN AGED 12-25 TO GET HELP OR TO GET INVOLVED WWW.MENSLINK.ORG.AU
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Dean Zammit, Dic
k Cordy and Neil Syd
larczuk
Norm Honey, Gary Butcher and Luke
John Hillier and David Creagh
Revet
Anthony Trump, Tim White and Starry Hardjadinata
Jenny Flemming, Tony Rowley and Belinda Barnes
Chris Fusca, Alex Vallentine and Jeff Brewer
Above: State of the Union Lunch Below: Snowy Hydro SouthCare Golf Day Images: Andrew Finch
Ian Heddle, Matt Jones and Bob Hughes Tim Byrne, Richard McShane and Andrew Deane
David George, Robert Johnston, Ray
Vic Nunn and Vicki Williams
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Lewis and Michael Robey
Simon Carbin, Nick Mathas, Mario Matic and Paul Rowe
Victoria Cowlishaw, Sarah Gilbert and Julia Green
Issue #24 JUNE 2013
ACTEWAGL JUNE EVENTS CALENDAR Week 1: 3-9 JUNE Friday 7/6
JOHN I DENT :: West V East 3.15pm Jamison Oval JOHN I DENT :: Uni-North V Gungahlin 3.05pm ANU North JOHN I DENT :: Royals V Vikings 3.05pm Phillip Oval ICE HOCKEY :: Knights V North Stars 5.30pm Phillip Icehouse NEAFL :: Tuggeranong V Sydney Uni 11.45am Greenway
Sunday 9/6
Saturday 15/6
Week 4: 24-30 JUNE NEAFL :: Tugg Hawks V Belconnen 2.00pm Greenway NEAFL :: Eastlakes V Ainslie 2.00pm Manuka Oval Saturday 29/6
NPL :: Canberra City V Canberra FC 3.00pm Hawker JOHN I DENT :: Uni-Norths V Wests 3.05pm ANU North JOHN I DENT :: QBN Whites V Gungahlin 3.05pm Campese JOHN I DENT :: Royals V Easts 3.05pm Phillip Oval
NEAFL :: Eastlake V Redland 11.45am Manuka Oval NEAFL :: Tugg Hawks V QBN Tigers 2.00pm Greenway
BBALL :: Gunners V LAUNCESTON 7.30pm Belconnen
JOHN I DENT :: Royals V Wests 3.05pm Phillip Oval JOHN I DENT :: Vikings V Gungahlin 3.05pm Viking Park JOHN I DENT :: QBN Whites V Easts 3.05pm Campese
NPL :: Belconnen Utd V Canberra Olympic 3.00pm McKellar NPL :: Woden Valley V Monaro 3.00pm Woden NPL :: AIS V Cooma 3.15pm AIS Grass Field
NPL :: Belconnen United V Canberra City 3.00pm McKellar NRL :: RAIDERS V Panthers 7.00pm Canberra stadium CRC :: QBN Roos V Tugg Bushrangers 3.00pm Freebody CRC :: Woden Rams V Belconnen Scholars 3.00pm Phillip CRC :: WB Warriors V QBN Blues 3.00pm Raiders Belconnen CRC :: Goulburn V Gungahlin Bulls 3.00pm Workers Arena NPL :: Cooma V Tuggeranong United 3.00pm Nijong Oval NPL :: Woden Valley V Canberra Olympic 3pm Woden NPL :: AIS V Canberra FC 3.15pm AIS Grass Field
Week 3: 17-23 JUNE NEAFL :: Ainslie V Belconnen 12.00noon Manuka Oval NEAFL :: Eastlake V Tugg Hawks 3.00pm Manuka Oval Saturday 22/6
NPL :: Canb FC V Belconnen United 3.00pm Deakin Oval NpL :: Cooma V Woden Valley 3.00pm Nijong Oval NPL :: Canberra Olympic V AIS 3.00pm O’Connor NPL :: Monaro V Tuggeranong 3.00pm Riverside Stadium CRC :: Goulburn Workers V QBN Blues 3.00pm Workers
NRL :: RAIDERS V Broncos 7.00pm Canberra stadium
ICE HOCKEY :: Knights V Melb Ice 5.00pm Phillip Icehouse
Sunday 16/6
Sunday 23/6
NPL :: Tugg United V Canberra Olympic 3.00pm Kambah NPL :: Cooma V Monaro 3.00pm Nijong Oval NPL :: AIS V Canberra City 3.15pm AIS Grass Field
Week 2: 10-16 JUNE Monday 10/6
NEAFL :: QBN Tigers V Sydney Uni 11.45am Dairy Farmers
Super Rugby :: Brumbies V Rebels 7.40pm Can Stad NPL :: Woden V Canberra FC 3.00pm Woden
Saturday 8/6
Week 3: 17-23 JUNE continued
CRC :: QBN Roos V Belconnen Scholars 3.00pm Freebody CRC :: Tugg Bushrangers V WB Warriors 3.00pm Greenway CRC :: Gungahlin Bulls V Woden Rams 3.00pm Raiders Belco JOHN I DENT :: Royals V QBN Whites 3.05pm Phillip Oval JOHN I DENT :: Easts V Uni-Norths 3.05pm Griffith Oval JOHN I DENT :: Wests V Vikings 3.05pm Jamison Oval BBALL :: Gunners V NUNAWADING 7.30pm Belconnen
NEAFL :: QBN Tigers V UWS Giants 2.00pm Diary Farmers
Sunday 30/6
CRC :: QBN Roos V Gungahlin Bulls 3.00pm Freebody CRC :: Woden Rams V Tugg Bushrangers 3.00pm Phillips CRC :: WB Warriors V Goulburn 3.00pm Raiders Belconnen CRC :: QBN Blues V Belconnen Scholars 3.00pm Seiffert
ActewAGL Athlete on the rise
Peter Nuttall - Squash. Currently ranked Australian No.1 in his age group Peter plays in the Canberra senior and junior competitions. Recently, in the ACT Junior Open, Peter played in both the U13 and U17 divisions winning the U13’s without dropping a game and making the final of the U17’s where, against training partner and Australian U17 No.3 Aidan Parkes, he went down 3 – 1 in a great match enjoyed by a vocal crowd. THE ActewAGL Athlete on the Rise recognises and rewards the achievements of our rising sporting talent. The award caters for athletes at all levels of competition. It is not only results that count, but good sportsmanship as well. Do you know someone that qualifies as an ActewAGL Athlete on the Rise? Send all nominations to editor@playcanberra.com.au
Supporting a future for our kids ActewAGL in partnership with Mix106.3 and Southern Cross Ten are proud to support Give Me 5 For Kids in their efforts to raise much needed funds for the children’s ward at the Canberra Hospital.
SEC0512/01
To find out more information on Give Me 5 for Kids or to donate, visit actewagl.com.au/giveme5
ActewAGL Retail ABN 46 221 314 841.
Issue #24 JUNE 2013
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Michelle Halpin, An
neke Huender and Ton
i McInerney
Monique and Patrice Ingram
Donna Peat and Rebecca Leahey
Nicole Ayers, Suzie Goodall, Julie Frost, Catherine Cook and Tania Monaghan
Mario Fenech, Frances Heaney and Nathan Hindmarsh
Annette Zerial and Julie Sunley
Above: 2013 Harvey Norman Women in League Dinner Below: ACT High Performance Cricket Awards Images: Andrew Finch
Kyle Piper, Blake Moore, Charlotte Anneveld and Adrian Johnstone Michael Spaseski, Peter Forrest and Mark Higgs
The ACT Meteors
Ben Ryan and Steph Davidson
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Kaine Ciuffetelli, Benji and Tim Floros and Tom Boyton
Lilly Knife and Issie Olson
Issue #24 JUNE 2013
ACT Dominate The Australian Indoor Hockey Squad Indoor World Cup in Germany in February 2015. The squad was selected after the Senior Indoor National Championships and a three day training camp held in January. Following the fantastic performance of team at the National Championships, eight of the eleven ACT athletes were selected in the squad. Of the eight athletes selected four were in the training squad for the last World Cup, with two of four, Matthew and Paul playing in the 2011 World Cup. From the squad, 15 athletes will be selected to tour Europe in January 2014. During two camps in Poland and Austria, Australia will play matches against a number of European nations preparing for the 2014 European Indoor Championships. As Brent Deans, Manager and Assistant Trainer, explains: “European teams have made up the majority of the teams competing in past Indoor World Cups and so the more experience our athletes can gain from playing against these teams the better prepared we will be for what is to come in 2015.” Eight of the ACT men’s team, who finished second at the Senior Indoor National Championships held in Canberra in January, have been selected in the Australian men’s indoor squad. Gary Backhus, goal keeper Malcolm Beer, Chris Hotchkis, captain-coach
Matthew Hotchkis, Chris Jorgensen, Paul MacKinnon, Seyi Onitiri and Andrew Tomadini were all named in the squad. The 25-man squad features a blend of youth and experience as the team builds towards the
Future bright for Australian No.1 Quite a few years ago now there seemed to be squash courts on almost every corner. Well, if not on every corner then there were certainly many around in suburbs and towns with courts open daily. Too many courts coupled with high property prices meant that many were suddenly converted, knocked down or lay derelict. Enough survived in Canberra though to ensure that a new generation of player is taking up this most exciting of sports. Young thirteen-year-old Marist College student, Peter Nuttall (pictured right with Aidan Parkes), is one such Canberran. Peter took up squash at the end of 2009 and it wasn’t too long before his potential was being recognised. Currently ranked Australian No.1 in his age group he plays in the Canberra senior and junior competitions and, on quite a few weekends during the year, heads to Sydney for tournament play against some tough and much older competitors. Most recently, in the ACT Junior Open at the Woden Courts, he played in both the U13 and U17 divisions. Peter didn’t drop a game playing in the younger age group and then made the final of the U17’s where, against training partner and Australian U17 No.3 Aidan Parkes, he went down 3 – 1 in a great match enjoyed by a vocal crowd. With the support of sponsors Dunlop and Ashaway Strings, there’s no doubt Peter loves his squash and is prepared to work hard at improving and developing Issue #24 JUNE 2013
Australia’s men finished seventh at the 2011 Indoor World Cup in Poznan, Poland. A resounding 7-4 victory over the Czech Republic, traditionally a strong indoor hockey playing nation, was enough to secure seventh place on the final day. Many of us would wonder what’s happened to squash following the halcyon days of Heather McKay, Geoff Hunt and then more recently Sarah Fitz-Gerald and Canberra’s own Stewart Boswell. Overseas, squash is on the rise. In the United States the take up of the sport at junior level is unprecedented. In Europe, junior events are attracting record numbers. But it is in Asia and the Middle East that squash has really taken off. Egypt produces such brilliant players as Ramy Ashour and the up and coming brothers Mohammed and Marwan El Shorbagy; Malaysia’s Nicol David has been ranked women’s world No.1 for the last seven years. Squash is truly a world game. An established Commonwealth Games sport, the World Squash Federation is making a bid for inclusion in the 2020 Olympics. If you want to see squash at its most exciting visit the 2020 Squash Bid on YouTube and see why this sport – played in 185 countries – should be there.
And what of squash in Canberra? On most nights the courts are busy with either junior, senior or Masters his game. Coached by former Australian Junior representative and current Australian No.12, Josh Larkin, competitions happening. There are definitely enough he trains and plays most days, balancing commitments courts around to get a social game though and ACT Squash is currently exploring ways to increase the to homework, a part-time job walking dogs and the Marist U16 Premier Basketball team. Friday night can be number of courts. Coaching is available in most centres a rush from the Tuggeranong Basketball Stadium across and, as a way to get fit and challenge yourself, there’s town to the Dickson Courts at Northside Fitness Centre. not much better than the explosiveness, tactical play On Saturday morning it’s off to train with the ACT Junior and speed of squash. Give the courts a call and see you Squad. It’s a busy week! at the XXXII Olympiad! playcanberra.com.au
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The Global Poverty Walk began in early February 2013. Matt travelled across the Nullarbor and on to Adelaide, Melbourne and Canberra before finishing in Sydney in late June. Matt, a Global Poverty Ambassador and mad AFL fan, will walk the entire route, approximately 4,400km, bouncing an AFL football – something that has never been done before. Wendy will walk as much of the route as possible but also look after the transport and logistics. This walk comes on the back of Matts highly successful ride from Perth to Canberra in April/May 2012 which concluded at half time in the GWS v Gold Coast AFL game in front of a crowd of 8,500 fans. According to The World Bank, approximately 1.3 billion people still live in extreme poverty and over 7 million children die each year from starvation and starvation related illnesses. With adequate nutrition, vaccines and the basic medical and maternal care that we take for granted in Australia, we can save these lives.
The Global Poverty Walk
Join this amazing walk
Matt Napier is currently walking from Perth to Sydney bouncing an AFL football to raise awareness of global poverty. Show your support for the Global Poverty Walk and join the walk on its way to Parliament House 100 SPORTING EVENTS, 100 DAYS, 1 CENTENARY YEAR
SPORTENARY
Over 50 weeks of the Centenary year, there will be 100 community events showcasing a diversity of sport and recreation activities, facilities and local attractions throughout the ACT that get Canberrans off the bench and participating in Sportenary! Further information can be found at www.canberra100.com.au/sportenary
When: 1pm Friday 14 June 2013 Where: Senator Kate Lundy’s Office 11 London Circuit. Or come along to cheer Matt on as he arrives at Parliament House during the final leg of his 4,400km journey (approx 1.40pm) www.theglobalpovertywalk.com.au
Event Name
The Global Poverty Walk
Organisation
The Global Poverty Walk
Date
Friday 14 June 2013
Time
1pm to 2pm
Location
Parliament House Lawns
Event Details
www.canberra100.com.au/sportenary
Event Name
Mt Stromlo Observatory Walking Tour
Event Name
Kick Up Your Heels: Rock Around The Clock
Organisation
Mt Stromlo Observatory
Organisation
Albert Hall
Date
Saturday 8 June 2013
Date
Saturday 15 June 2013
Time
10am to 11.30am
Time
8pm to 11.30pm
Location
Mt Stromlo Observatory, Mt Stromlo
Location
Southside Rock and Roll Club
Event Details
www.canberra100.com.au/sportenary
Event Details
www.canberra100.com.au/sportenary
Event Name
Sri Chinmoy 5 Mile and 2 Mile Races
Event Name
Ginninderra & Tuggeranong Parkrun
Organisation
Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team
Organisation
Ginninderra Parkrun
Date
Monday 10 June 2013
Date
Saturday 22 June 2013
Time
7.30am to 12pm
Time
8am to 9am
Location
Telopea Park East, Kingston
Location
This event runs concurrently at 2 different venues
Event Details
www.canberra100.com.au/sportenary
Event Details
www.canberra100.com.au/sportenary
Event Name
Come and Try Cali-Dance
Event Name
Figure Skating @ Skate in the City
Organisation
Karilee Calisthenics Club
Organisation
Skate in the City
Date
Monday 10 June 2013
Date
Friday 28 and Saturday 29 June 2013
Time
11am to 12.30pm
Time
8pm to 9.30pm
Location
Erindale Theatre - McBryde Crescent, Wanniassa
Location
Garema Place, Civic
Event Details
www.canberra100.com.au/sportenary
Event Details
www.canberra100.com.au/sportenary
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Issue Issue#24 #24 JUNE 2013
: h: nt Mo t e oa th n b lub of go e c ub r a o Cl s D can ry on r na ag e te dr rigg en e ut ::C ic & o
Boat blessing with a centenary twist The Ice Dragons recently amalgamated with the Canberra Outrigger Canoe Club (COCC) to form the Canberra Ice Dragons Dragon Boat and Outrigger Canoe Club. they are now the only ACT club to offer both dragon boat and outrigger canoe to either paddle competitively, or just to have fun on the water in both sport. But all boats need a name, so a naming ceremony was organized and it was a perfect fit to celebrate the Ice Dragons 10th Birthday along with Canberra 100th birthday celebrations. “2013 is a big year. 10 years of Ice Dragons and 100 for Canberra! On 4 May, the Ice Dragons Dragon Boat and Outrigger Club held a special centenary workout and a canoe blessing and naming ceremony” Club president Tammy Van Denge Told PLAY canberra. “The canoe blessing and naming ceremony kicked off our campaign for the Hamilton Island Clash of the Paddles next month. This event gave us a great chance to celebrate this wonderful city, two brilliant sports and an amazing community”.
The sports of Dragon Boat and Outrigger racing have strong traditions. While Dragon boat traditions come from its Chinese heritage, Outriggers have Pacific Island roots and one of the more import traditions is the naming of boats. “Outriggers need names, the Canberra Outriggers Club had been around for a while and then they join us at the end of 2011. They bought over their boats and the boats didn’t have names. So we palnned to have a naming ceremony. “We thought, it’s not only the Centenary of Canberra, its also the clubs 10 year anniversary, so we thought lets do something amazing and celebrate these things at the same time. “To celebrate we decided to do 2013 reps of our favorite exercises, have a big BBQ and the naming ceremony. It turned it into a massive event for us with a real Centenary theme. We got the ukulele band and Dr Chris Burke (MLA) to help us out so it ending up being a celebration you won’t see anywhere else”.
‘Centenary Club of the Month’ will be awarded to the sporting team, club or organisation who celebrates the Centenary of Canberra throughout their own networks in a fun and creative way. There will be one winner each month (February to November), with the winners having the opportunity to win the Centenary Club of the Year.
SIMPLE STEPS TO BE IN THE RUNNING:
1. Think up a creative way to celebrate the Centenary - Canberra’s birthday with your team, club or sporting organisation. Such as; • Theme a match day with everything yellow! Yellow accessories - socks, shoe laces, hats, sweat bands, ribbons, sleeves, make yellow banners, yellow snacks and create centenary chants • Maybe incorporate a club fundraiser with a percentage going to the Centenary’s official fundraising partner - Dollars for Dili (dollarsfordili.com.au) • Centenary themed bake-off for supporters attending junior sport (or young at heart sport participants) • 2013 Tally – 100 points, wickets, goals, club wins, or games. Make it a target across the year, tracking it along the way Issue #24 JUNE 2013
They will head up to Hamilton Island at the end of June to compete in the Gatorade Clash of the Paddles open water racing series. and the Club of the Month prize money will help towards team safety. “The prize money will go toward some long range radios for the boats, a reminder to the crew of the dangers open water racing” Tammy told PLAY. There is no doubting the commitment it takes to compete in Dragon Boat and Outrigger racing at the highest level and the Ice Dragons team, with numbers around the 135 mark, have a proven record of producing state and national representatives and we wish them all the best for the clash of the Paddles.
Honourable mention
Melba Tennis club how hosted a two day Junior Development Tournament with a strong Centenary theme.
2. Then - ‘Like’ our event page facebook.com/CentenaryofCanberra and visit our event ‘Centenary Club of the Month’ 3. At your celebration take lots of photos! The more photos the better and be creative. 4. Simply get a club member, coach or volunteer to click ‘going’ on the event page and upload your five best photos and videos to the event page facebook.com/CentenaryofCanberra and tell us in a few sentences why you should win Centenary Club of the Month. Please also share on Twitter twitter.com/CentenaryofCanb and include #Canberra100
WHAT DO YOU WIN?
The ten ‘Centenary Club of the Month’ winners will each receive a grant of $500 to assist with the purchase of sporting equipment. Plus an exclusive article in PLAY magazine. The nine ‘Centenary Club of the Month’ winners (Feb-Oct) will then go into the final to take home the ‘Centenary Club of the Year’ where there is over $2000 in Sportsman’s Warehouse vouchers up for grabs.’ playcanberra.com.au
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recognised with loyalty awards. But we were then reminded that whilst the program is intended to be fun, social and educational - getting kids up and moving - the root reason for the program is a little more serious. Childhood activity levels continue to decline, electronic device use is on the increase and the risk of early onset chronic disease will become more prevalent if we don’t try to buck these trends by getting kids to move more each day. We now understand that an active childhood is not the norm as it was in previous generations. The key message for us all at the launch was that the Active Kids Challenge was owned by us all, but only cared for by the Foundation. The content of the program is directly influenced by the ideas and feedback of community members and teachers to make sure it has an impact in the right way. The survival of the program also relies on ongoing community funding support to match a government contribution.
ACTIVE KIDS - Are we really up to the Challenge?
Each day, we are bombarded with a new health report telling us the health record of Australians is changing. The stand out one is our obesity rates that are increasing. Our men now rate as second in the obesity stakes around the world. Our women are trailing along in sixth place but neither race is one we want or need to win. Sadly, we are not just taking on this challenge in the adult events. We also have a junior development program in place and we have the next generation following us. They are influenced by our ‘adult’ training routine and dietary schedule to become the future champions in the obesity competition as well. This is not good enough and we need to turn it around. Therein is the challenge for us all. As adults, we are role models. Little ‘mini me’ watches all we do and copies. We are the ones directly responsible for the choices made about our child’s activity levels and the food they eat. As the responsible adults, we are the only ones that can change this trend. We cannot pass the baton onto someone else – our government, our local medicos, our talented teachers – and expect them to make the difference for us. It’s time for our ‘all care but no responsibility’ attitude to be discarded so we can ensure the best future health outcomes for our children. Our record breaking trend in the obesity stakes has taken some years to achieve. So too will the road back to better health outcomes. Anything of value takes time. Just ask 28
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our true skilled athletes, continual improvement is the best way to achieve long term success. Here in Canberra, the Active Kids Challenge has been incrementally improving its spread into local primary schools in Term 3 to do its bit to reverse this trend. Now in 70% of local schools, it offers fun and entertaining resources directly into classrooms to teach students about healthy lifestyle habits right from Kindergarten. Hosted by the Physical Activity Foundation, the program supports teachers to do their part with themed ‘healthy’ weeks of activities, competitions and challenges and rewards for the kids and schools that participate. Last month at Kaleen Sports Club, the new home base of the Physical Activity Foundation, the 2013 Active Kids Challenge was officially launched. In the room was an important mix of people – the patron of the Foundation Andrew Barr MLA, representatives from participating schools, program sponsors and partners (such as PLAY magazine), government representatives and local sports representatives, all wanting to be a part of the action. It was a feel good environment with the schools who have participated in the program since its start in 2008 being
We were all encouraged to make a connection with the program – a serious contribution not just lip service. The sports representatives in the room immediately saw the connection with their business. Active Kids might be a simple catch cry we all understand but a collective voice will be needed to have the message really stand out and be listened to. Program links between the Active Kids Challenge and local sports just makes sense and the quick ones are already lining up to be a partner in the program. Committing to anything always has its risk. Becoming personally involved is also daunting for many of us. But do we really have a choice? We are well on track to becoming gold medallists in the obesity race. And with that award comes a staggering health bill, a poorer quality of life for our children and a greater spiral of inactivity that will be even harder to reverse. The Active Kids Challenge is not the only solution to the problem but it is a good start. The hard work is done in developing the program, now it is up to us all to maintain and grow it to respond to the deadly health crisis our children face. We can no longer ignore the health statistics. Nor can we block out the emotional and physical toll felt by those that are counted in them. Apathy needs to be a thing of the past. However, if the Active Kids Challenge doesn’t survive due to it, maybe we should not be too disheartened. Our gold medal performances in the obesity race will not be far behind!
Play your part by contacting Sue Marriage, CEO of the Physical Activity Foundation at soulrevival@live.com.au or mobile 0417 445 052. Issue #24 JUNE 2013
Rhys Pinter - ready to rock and not roll
Rhys Pinter Rally Sport is now certainly in full swing for their main 2013 season events after taking out the NSW Hyundai Excel and ACT Novice series’ in their debut season in 2012. By Joshua Matic
a highlight than the time he spent with Bates in February, in a day he described as life changing. Prior to the National Capital Rally, Pinter went under Bates’ wing at Crows Forrest near Queanbeyan, using a 15 kilometre test track. After the session, he completed the track 15 seconds faster than before. “Every little bit counts. For me, even if I took half of that towards the National Capital Rally, that’s still a massive gain,” said Pinter. “Neal Bates is like a swimming school instructor trying to get a kid to jump into the deep end, and saying ‘you can do it without your floaties’.” “Corners I was backing off on, he was driving through with one hand.” “I was doing a lot of the basics right, but a lot of the straights I was holding back on. I was probably too easy on my car.” “That day was life changing in a way that you’ve got someone like that who can just jump into a car and do what they do with a car.” “I was in awe of Neal, having a four time Australian Rally Champion in the car. That was amazing.” Bates improved Pinter’s driving confidence ten-fold, and gave him advice he can take on board for a lifetime.
Despite a hiccup back in March in their inaugural Australian Rally Championship round, the National Capital Rally centenary of Canberra event, team leader and creator Rhys Pinter has moved on and has made big inroads to start working towards the four rounds his team is focussing on. And after having completed the same tracks last year, secured new sponsors and a permanent navigator, and spent some practice hours with four time ARC champion Neal Bates, there is no reason why they cannot replicate their success of last season. PLAY Canberra recently caught up with Pinter, and he could not emphasise enough how important his sponsors were in the success of his young rally career. Since last year, his team have been proudly sponsored by Revell Steering and Southern Automotive services. Just weeks ago though, Pinter proudly announced that he would be adding hardware supplier Damesa Industries to his list of major sponsors, in a major boost for his team’s aspirations this rally season. “We’ve signed up with Damesa, which is fantastic, so hopefully the car’s ready to rock and not roll,” said Pinter with a smile and tongue in cheek. When speaking of the ‘roll’, he was referring to the disaster that struck his team in the National Capital Rally. After a respectable start to the race, Pinter’s car experienced a driving shaft issue, meaning he was not able to make a turn properly. This caused the car to roll, and while it was not the biggest of rolls, it was a damaging one. Pinter described the incident as odd, where the back of the car remained almost untouched, but the car’s front was “crunched”. Issue #24 JUNE 2013
But the team quickly moved on from the incident, and despite not having had the chance to give the car a run since, have spent time making necessary repairs.
PLAY Canberra spoke with Bates about Pinter, and he said he respected Pinter’s enthusiasm for rally sport and credited his very quick learning.
“We’re running against the clock. It [National Capital Rally roll] was a light roll, but it was a pretty damaging roll because everything on the front of the car was replaced,” said Pinter.
“Rhys is very enthusiastic about the sport, and it’s nice to see people with that enthusiasm. He’s only done a few rallies, so there’s a lot for him to learn, but he learnt incredibly quickly,” he said.
“We have been a little bit on the back foot.”
Bates said that in the short time he had with Pinter, he did everything he was advised to, and improved out of sight.
Pinter is now confident his car is in better condition than what it ever has been, and is feeling confident heading into the Bega Valley Rally on Sunday June 9. “Bega for me is probably my favourite event of the year,” said Pinter. “When you’re talking state events it’s one of the best. You’ve got the ACT rally series there, you’ve got the NSW rally series, and you’ve got the Victorian rally series.” This season Rhys Pinter Rally Sport is competing in four different classes- NSW Excel, ACT Clubman, NSW Clubman, and ACT Silvercup- all of which fall under the respective NSW and ACT state series’.
“There’s an awful lot to learn in rallying. It takes a long time. It’s just a matter of doing it, learning and being dedicated to it.” Bates was not concerned about Pinter’s roll in the National Capital Rally, and said all Pinter needs to do to develop is enter as many rallies as possible, while staying the in Excel Series for a couple more years before moving on to bigger, better, and faster things. “Like anything, you’ve got to learn to get the best out of that car before moving on to the next,” he said.
They will enter the same rounds as they did in 2012- the Bega Rally, Batemans Bay Rally, Back To Bondo, and Shannon Safari.
“It [National Capital Rally roll] was just a car issue. That’s part of rallying…it’s something you can’t avoid. You put that out of your mind and move on to the next rally.”
Under the state series’ rules, competitors must enter five rounds, of which the best four are assessed.
This year marks the 40th Jubilee, and Pinter is focussed on representing NSW and taking on the Victorians.
For Rhys Pinter Rally Sport, the National Capital Rally will be the dropped event, as they did not finish it.
It also marks one year of competition for Rhys Pinter Rally Sport, and will be an exciting occasion for them.
As well as proudly announcing a new sponsor for this season, Pinter was also proud to reveal Peter McKern as his permanent navigator for the season, which he said will boost stability in the team.
“Neal has taught me a lot, so hopefully some of the things that he’s said can help me,” said Pinter.
But for Pinter, nothing this year so far has been more of
“We’ve got pretty heavy sponsors now, and I’ve got to try and perform for them because they’re pouring money in.” playcanberra.com.au
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crossword 19 PLAY CANBERRA 2
3
4
6
5
7 8
9
10 11
1 Lebanese-born League star Benny ___ (5)
6 Not the winner (4-3)
2 Grand Prix racing course (6)
9 Gruelling rally (5)
3 Your Test hat (3)
10 Ivo Karlovic’s country (7)
4 Romanian tennis player of yore, Ion ___ (6)
12 The Canaries (7,4)
7 Practice technique (5)
5 See 22 Across
14 Current Australian cricket and soccer dual international (6,5)
8 Retired Aussie bowler Nathan ___ (7)
18 Ice hockey cup (7)
11 A ‘libero’ (7)
19 Left-arm bowler Mitchell ___ (5)
13 FIFA kingpin Sepp ___ (7)
21 Unsanctioned (tour) (5)
15 New York baseballer (6)
22 and 5 Down Former Australian opener (7,7)
16 Play one game, sit out the next (6)
12
17 Bowling lawn (5)
13 14
Across
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20 Roughness and smoothness of a snooker table’s cloth (3)
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B E R N A R D
17 18
19 20
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T O M I C
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R E T T A U P S E T O G E R L I U A V H E R N R A V I S T T B O P G E A R W O A A R I A I R O D E R O W D
S T A Y E R S E P S O M
I L V A E S G E N T L R A G E K I F F E D G E D R E K I E R L E I L E R
COERVER Coaching Master Class Series.
Crossword #18 solutions
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“It’s the lack of faith that makes people afraid of meeting challenges, and I believe in myself” - Muhammad Ali
Jason Lancsar COERVER® Coaching Asia Pacific Director
Jason Lancsar COERVER® Coaching Asia Pacific Director We hope you enjoy our Coerver Coaching Play Magazine homework designed to improve your game but above all have fun while practicing. Coerver Coaching has been a global leader in 1v1, this month we look at the Step On.
Topic: The Step On
• You should also practice this move using the opposite feet. • While hopping on one leg, step lightly with your sole on top of the ball to stop it. • Your momentum should take you past the ball with both feet landing beyond it. Now turn and take the ball. • You should use this move along the wings and when your opponent is to the side of you.
Step 1:
Step 2:
Step 3:
Step 4:
Step 5:
As you run down the wing with your opponent chasing after you.
Use the sole of your foot to stop the ball suddenly but lightly while hopping past the ball on your other foot.
When you land with both feet on the ground, the ball will be behind you.
Turn, and with the outside of your hopping foot.
Go past your opponent.
See next issue for more tips from Coerver Coaching or for further information please visit our website www.coerver.com.au
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playcanberra.com.au
Issue #24 JUNE 2013
Issue #24 JUNE 2013
playcanberra.com.au
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6256 6700 Issue #24 JUNE 2013