PLAY Canberra issue 38 by Play Canberra

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FROM THE EDITOR

came when he knew he had to take matters into his own hands (or legs). He looked over at Tommy Voeckler and said “‘you’re not going to beat me today, there’s no way” and off he took. It was one of the grittiest TdF stage wins ive witnessed and that’s saying something.

Hockey Gold Medal Pictured You’ve gotta feel for the poor Pom’s – 14 seconds away from a Gold Medal!! The game seemed all but lost, down 2-1 with a minute to go, but you could see in the Aussie girls faces – including Canberra’s Anna Flanagan and Edwina Bone – that the game wasn’t over until the final whistle. The Hockeyroos’ received a penalty in the final minute and with 14 seconds remaining scored to tie the game and send it into a penalty shoot that they really never looked like losing. 2014 was a huge year for sport in the Capital and we have complied our list of the Top 5 Canberra Sporting moments. Complied in no particular order because lets face it – all these moments had us jumping off the couch!

Mills wins NBA championship Winning a championship on the world’s biggest stage against the world’s best player sounds like the stuff childhood dreams are made of, but those dreams became reality for Canberra’s Patty Mills in June this year when he helped the San Anotio Spurs defeat LeBron James’ Miami Heat. Patty’s performance in the final game of the series, in which he scored 17 points (14 in the third quarter), helped the Spurs clinch the championship and made him the most tweeted about person in the world at that time.

The Fastest Australian Woman EVER In February this year history was made. Melinda Gainsford-Taylor’s 20 year-old 100 metre record was finally beaten. Canberra’s Mel Breen ran the fastest 100m time for any Australian female athlete - 11.11 seconds. The moment took a little while to sink in – The fastest Australian woman EVER and Mel later admitted she had to repeat to herself a few times before it sunk in.

Rogers wins TDF stage Stage 16 of the 2014 Tour de France – at 238km it was the longest stage of the Tour and featured 5 categorised climbs. A break away containing Canberra Michael Rogers had a handy but not unassailable lead, but there was no way Rodgers was not going to win this stage. The moment EDITOR Nathan Minerds CREATIVE DIRECTOR & DESIGN Anthony Nankervis COVER & FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY Lightbulb Studios

NK beats Rafa In July Canberra’s Nick Kyrgios beat World No. 1 Rafa Nadal in their round 4 clash at Wimbledon becoming the first wildcard on debut to reach the QFs in 10 years. The match saw Nick fire down 37 aces – the most Nadal has ever faced in his career. The match prior to this one perhaps highlighted Nick’s true grit when he saved 9 match points to beat 13th seed Frenchman Richard Gasquet. In August Nick became the first teenager to beat seeded players in back-to-back Grand Slam Tournaments since Novak Djokovic in 2006 when he beat Mikhail Youzhny and Andreas Seppi in the US OPEN.

CONTENTS DEC 2014

AUSSIE RULES AFL in Kenya 5 AUSSIE RULES Aaron Vandenberg 6 CRICKET Mr Cricket to Captain PMs XI 7 BASEBALL Cavalry set to battle heat for fans in The Fort 8 MENSLINK Reach out to someone in your life over Christmas 10 CBR100 CHALLENGE Are you up for the CBR100 Challenge?

11 RAIDER: ISSUE 1

Nick capped off an amazing first full grand slam season by winning the Newcombe Medal as Australia’s most outstanding player in 2014.

Real Men Wear Pink (and Red) The debut of Michael ‘Bling’ Matthews in the Giro d’Italia was one Canberra cycling fans will remember for a longtime. After winning the team time trial on day 1 Bling spent the next six stages in the overall race leaders pink jersey – the famed Maglia Rosa and included a victory on stage 6. After disappointingly missing the Tour de France after a training mishap, Bling hit the world stage again in the Vuelta a Espana winning stage 3 and holding the overall leaders Maillot Rojo (Red Jersey) for 2 days. Holding 2 of the 3 Grand Tour Leaders jersey’s solidified what the Canberra cycling fraternity has know for many years – this guy is a star! Play hard until next month… NATHAN

WRITERS Antony Perry Brett McKay Brendan Parnell Russ Gibbs Josh Matic Todd Davey Lyndall Parker

re cr ui ts THE

ISSUE 1

#BLEEDGREEN

DEC 2014

RAIDERS.COM.AU

28 RUGBY UNION

Cheika lobs to fix the Wallabies mess

29 ACT SPORTSTAR AWARDS PHOTOGRAPHERS Ben Coughlan Ben Southall Nudgepix Photography Amanda Kelly Joseph Purdam

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING | editor@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.

Buchanan & Powell make history

30 PLAY BY THE RULES

‘You Can Play’ forum

31 PLAY BY THE RULES

Hall Pony Club gets a new home

32 BASKETBALL

Caps in the driver’s seat

AUSSIE RULES

AFL IN KENYA AT CANBERRA SUNSHINE ACADEMY

YEAR 10 CANBERRA GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL (CGGS) STUDENT AND EASTLAKE FOOTBALL CLUB PLAYER, JESSIE GLASSOCK TOOK HER LOVE FOR AFL TO CANBERRA SUNSHINE ACADEMY IN KENYA, ON A SCHOOL SERVICE TRIP RECENTLY. The 15 senior school students had the opportunity to participate and teach morning classes and play sports with the 400 children, from kindergarten to Year 8. For Jessie, this was an opportunity for her to share her footy skills with Year 5 and Year 7 students, with the help of fellow student Mackenzie Morrison.

“We got the chance to teach AFL, including how to kick and hand pass, while also incorporating a couple of games using the footballs,” says Jessie, who has played with Eastlake’s Youth Girls team since their inception two years ago. “The children at the school were very eager and enthusiastic to learn about the sport and they all caught onto the idea very quickly. Mackenzie and I wore two Eastlake jerseys to show the kids what the players wear when they play AFL in Australia.” Canberra Sunshine Academy’s relationship with CGGS began in 2009. Since then, CGGS has raised funds to build brick classrooms, a toilet block and install electricity and a water tank for fresh drinking water. Furniture, books, sporting and teaching equipment has also been provided, along with student sponsorships. In appreciation of this partnership, Canberra Sunshine Academy named

by jessie glassock

themselves after CGGS, donned the same uniform and school crest. This year, CGGS students raised more than $9000 to build four more brick classrooms. Head of Senior School at CGGS, Jason CorbettJones says the students were great role models for the younger children. “Our visit to Kenya was about forging a stronger partnership between our schools built on relationships, not just bricks and mortar. Our students spent a week teaching lessons in art, English, history, geography, mathematics and sport education. Jessie was a great ambassador for both the School and AFL,” he says. “Many of the students are now considering return visits and working with non-government organisations in the future. It has been a life changer for them.”

AUSSIE RULES

AARON VANDENBERG

the only way is up by holly rourke

ONCE AGAIN, AINSLIE’S AARON VANDENBERG HAS PROVEN THAT FOR HIM, THE ONLY WAY IS UP, COMING SECOND IN THE NEAFL MVP BEST AND FAIREST THIS YEAR.

When Vandenberg first came to the Ainslie football club four years ago from Tathra, he knew country football well, but Ainslie Coach Chris Rourke says he has come so far since then.

Vandenberg has had his strongest season yet, constantly appearing in Ainslie’s best and becoming one of the competitions most renowned onballers.

“When Aaron first joined our team, he was a good player, but now he is standout player. After a year of altering from playing in the first division as well as the second division, I think he got fed up and decided he was really going to make something of himself, and his transformation has been incredible”, says Rourke.

At 22, he is still a young, developing player, but he is highly determined and dedicated to the beloved game, and he seems to just keep getting better.

As well as coming second in the entire NEAFL competition this year, Vandenberg also took out the best and fairest for Ainslie last year. He has now

also played for the NEAFL representative side for two consecutive years and has been a player that is hard to miss. If Vandenberg decides to play in the NEAFL competition again next year, it will be his fifth year at Ainslie, however, there is a lot of interest from other clubs in the bold player. “There has been interest from a number of clubs, and one of those clubs has been an AFL club, so there is still hope that he will get picked, but otherwise we would love to have him back again next year,” says Rourke. Although it may seem like Vandenberg’s transformation into one of the competitions top players happened quickly, Rourke says there was a lot more too it then that. “At the club we have a really good training culture, and Aaron is a very strong trainer, so that worked really well for him. He has definitely raised the bar. He works extremely hard and it has paid off for him” states Rourke. Vandenberg also acknowledges that the clubs strong training culture and leadership have helped him develop into the player he is today. “When I first got to the club, I was just a kid from the country. I wasn’t overly enthusiastic about my footy and I didn’t really know what I was doing. Ainslie has such a good culture. Rourkey is really supportive as well as the board, and the players keep you on track and make sure you are always giving 100 percent,” Vandenberg said. Vandenberg says although he has come a long way, it wasn’t an easy process. “It took me a while to get used to the seriousness of the NEAFL competition. My first two years were pretty slow but eventually my footy began to develop and it all started from there.” As well as having a very successful year with his football, he has also just finished his apprenticeship at the Australian Mint. So what’s next for Aaron Vandenberg? “I haven’t thought too much into it. I have really just been concentrating on getting through the end of the season. There has been a bit of discussion with other clubs, but for now, I’m just enjoying playing my footy”, says Vandenberg.

CRICKET

mr cricket to captain

PM’S XI

by brett mckay

FORMER CHAMPION AUSTRALIAN BATSMAN, MICHAEL HUSSEY HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED AS CAPTAIN OF PRIME MINISTER TONY ABBOTT’S XI, TO TAKE ON ENGLAND AT MANUKA OVAL ON WEDNESDAY JANUARY 14. Speaking at the announcement on the morning after Australia recorded a 73-run victory over South Africa in the third of five ODIs, Hussey described the appointment as “humbling”, and that he looked forward to leading the PM’s side in the annual Canberra fixture which dates back to the 1950’s. “It’s a tremendous honour to be selected to captain the Prime Minister’s XI,” Hussey said in Canberra. “Having played in the Prime Minister’s XI before, I know how important this fixture is on the Australian cricketing calendar, and it is a great tradition. “In the past two years Ricky Ponting and Brett Lee have been captains of the team, so it’s humbling to follow in the footsteps of two icons of Australian cricket.”

The rest of the team will also be selected by Cricket Australia’s National Selection Panel (NSP) with input from the Prime Minister, and will be announced in weeks leading up to the fixture. Hussey has played in two PM’s matches at Manuka Oval, against South Africa in 1997/98, and against India in 1999/2000. He made just 18 against the Indians in his most recent appearance, but peeled off 91 against the might of the late-90s South Africans, an innings he still recalls fondly now.

“My first game here was in the Under-17s Championship Final against NSW, and I was probably as high as those [TV] microphones with a really squeaky voice! And I had to wicketkeep in that particular game, and so I was in the field for more than a hundred overs. “And I still remember how big the ground was back then. Good batting pitch, but I was pretty exhausted by the end of that day,” Hussey said.

“I’ve had a few [PM’s XI] games along the way, which I’ve really enjoyed. I particularly enjoyed that match against South Africa even though I fell a few runs short of a century. It would be nice to go one step further all these years later.”

“The ground has changed a lot since back then, and all for the better, that’s for sure. Even though it was a beautiful ground back then, it just keeps getting better and better. The lights look fantastic, though now that I’m in this [television commentary attire] we just need a state-of-the-art Channel 9 commentary box!

Hussey first played at Manuka in a National under-age carnival back in the mid-1990s.

“No, it’s a fantastic ground, we love it, and I can’t wait to play here again in January.”

BASEBALL

cavalry set to battle heat

for fans at the fort A WINE GARDEN, IMPROVED GROUND FACILITIES, WAFFLE FRIES, CRACKER JACKS, PIZZA AND SOFT SERVE ICE CREAM WILL EACH BE SOLD AT THE NARRABUNDAH BALL PARK THIS SUMMER AS THE CANBERRA CAVALRY LOOK TO FIRE UP FOR THE FANS THIS SUMMER. The ACT government will inject five million dollars into the Cavalry’s finances this season to improve the club’s growth and its fans’ experience, after it completed an astonishing 2013–14 season by winning the Asia Baseball Series last year, and narrowingly missing out winning the last Australian Baseball League season earlier this year. They became the first ever Australian club to win the Asia series in their triumph last year.

“Our players do a large amount of community appearances every month which fans can attend. We encourage all fans to keep up to date with the player’s appearances by following the Cavalry on Facebook and Twitter,” Barnes said. The Angove Wine Garden will be not only new for the Cavalry, but Canberra’s sporting landscape as a whole, and will be positioned near the third baseline.

In addition to the improved catering at ‘The Fort’, as Narrabundah Ball Park is commonly known, there will also be added match-day entertainment.

Groups of 15 or more people will be able to use this facility at a price of 75 dollars per person, with finger food and a canapés package provided, as well as free wine and champagne servings.

Canberra Cavalry’s Lauren Barnes said the club hoped their improvements to fans’ match day experience lifted the club’s outreach to the Canberra community.

Team calendars, signed baseballs and professional group photos will also be on offer in the garden, but the largest feature will be a big screen broadcasting matches live.

The newly announced ACT Government funding will be largely spent on adding additional seating to ‘The Fort’, but Barnes said further improvements would be announced in the near future. “We are very excited to announce that we have received 5 Million dollars from the ACT government to use for an upgrade to the baseball facility. This upgrade will include additional seating for fans along with many more exciting updates to the ballpark,” Barnes said. Popular mascot ‘Sarge’ will be running around Narrabundah for another season on home game days, but this season fans will be invited to play mini baseball games in between every inning with the Forty Winks Diamond Dolls entertainers. “Fans are encouraged to sign up to play a game when they arrive at the ballpark! In addition we have a singer of the national anthem before every game and of course all fans are invited to help us sing ‘take me out to the ball game’ during the 7th inning stretch,” Barnes said. Membership packages are still available, with full season reserved seating passes available for $335 per adult, whilst six game passes are only $75. Details can be found at canberracavalry.com.au

Don’t let your clients get lost in the crowd. The Prime Minister’s XI is set to take place in Canberra on Wednesday 14th January against the old enemy England in a day/night 50-over fixture. Another sell-out crowd is expected for Manuka Oval’s first international match under lights in 2015. The PM’s XI has become Canberra’s iconic corporate entertaining event of the year, with a range of packages available for all group sizes and budgets. The day/night match starts at 2:20pm, so there is no need to take the day off work for the “must attend” corporate event in Canberra. Contact Maree Philip Ph: (02) 6126 5900 M: 0435 835 815 or Maree@theearlybird.com.au regarding corporate hospitality packages. Or visit cricketact.com.au to download package details.

MENSLINK

reach out to someone in your life

OVER CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS CAN BE A PRETTY LONELY TIME FOR MANY PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY – ESPECIALLY THOSE SUFFERING DISADVANTAGE OR HAVING RELATIONSHIP DIFFICULTIES AND CHALLENGES. GUYS IN PARTICULAR CAN SOMETIMES BE RELUCTANT TO TALK; TO TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS BREAKING THE ICE. BUT IT’S NEVER MORE IMPORTANT THAN AT CHRISTMAS. MENSLINK CEO MARTIN FISK EXPLAINS WHY. Over the past year, Menslink and the Brumbies have visited nearly forty schools and talked to around eight nine thousand young guys about the importance of talking to their mates and talking to an adult about getting through life’s hassles. Guys don’t talk. We can talk about general stuff, sure – footy, work, weather, politics or the Ashes. But a lot of blokes find it really hard to talk about stuff going on inside – relationships, real beliefs and values, emotions, stuff that scares us or gets us down. A lot of us find it really hard to admit that our façade of success or toughness might not be all it’s cracked up to be. Having those conversations – conversations that could really help us – is even harder when things aren’t going right in our lives. Without those conversations, without good mates to talk to, guys feel isolated and then their problems seem bigger and bigger. That’s why the Silence is Deadly schools’ program is so important – so that young guys get the message that talking to mates and getting help can really help, even if it’s a bit scary at first.

I contrast this with the women I know, who are in fairly constant contact with each other, reaching out to help and reaching out to get help through tough times. I think they’ve got the message right: that just because one thing in your life has gone pear shaped, it doesn’t mean you’re a failure. They reach out to their friends and their friends gather around them and support them. Young guys at school have often asked us “how can you find someone you trust?” It seems they’ve already had experiences – at far too young an age – where they might have needed a hand but been rebuffed or, worse, laughed at, by mates and even some adults in their lives. They’ve learned to stay quiet and pretend that everything’s OK. That’s what we’re trying to turn around – getting blokes to open up and their mates to support them so they’re not alone and not trying to deal with stuff by themselves.

I know one guy whose marriage fell over and he told no one about it – not colleagues at work, not mates, not his family. Kept it all bottled up inside and pretended nothing was wrong. He made it through eventually but probably spent years suffering by himself when he could have got help earlier if he’d opened up.

I remember another father coming into Menslink for advice about his son. Harsh words had been spoken at a family event, his son had felt guilty about it and gone into hiding. As we all know, going into hiding only makes problems seem bigger and worse than they really are. So we encouraged the dad to reach out with an olive branch and they’ve reconnected. The young guy stopped being isolated and the problems get back into perspective.

Another bloke I know spent his first Christmas after a marriage breakdown by himself, drinking and feeling bitter. Sure he had mates and close family, but felt embarrassed that his marriage had broken down and so chose to spend it alone.

So what about Christmas? As I said earlier, it can be a pretty lonely time for some people. For separated people in particular, Christmas often brings reminders of past Christmases with family and friends, making the loneliness and isolation

worse. For guys, sometimes just admitting that they’re lonely can be a big ask. They won’t pick up the phone and call someone because that would be admitting they’re lonely; that something’s wrong. But that’s what they really want, really need: someone to talk to, to be connected with. So if you know someone – maybe a family member, maybe an old school buddy who you haven’t spoken to for a while – maybe just pick up the phone, say g’day and have a yarn. I know when I’ve had tough times, those phone calls made the world of difference to me. You too might just make the world of difference to someone else – and that’s probably the best Christmas present you could ever give. From all of us at Menslink, I hope everyone has a happy and safe Christmas and we’ll see you all back again next year. I’d like to thank all of our staff, volunteers and sponsors for helping us make 2014 a better year for young guys in Canberra and the region.

More information about Menslink for volunteers, young men and their families is available from menslink.org.au. Menslink will be closed over the Christmas break and will reopen again on the 12th January. If you, or anyone you know is feeling really down over Christmas and needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au. They’re there 24 hours a day, seven days a week; including over Christmas.

CBR100 CHALLENGE

cbr1oo challenge? ARE YOU UP FOR THE

by juliana cieslar & jane speechley

IF YOU’D LIKE TO BUILD YOUR FITNESS IN THE COMPANY OF GOOD FRIENDS, ARE KEEN TO SUPPORT A WORTHY CAUSE, AND THINK YOU’D ENJOY EXPLORING SOME OF CANBERRA’S HIDDEN GEMS AND BEST SCENERY – THE CBR100 CHALLENGE IS FOR YOU! According to Heart Foundation ACT CEO Tony Stubbs, heart disease remains the single biggest killer of Canberrans. “Heart disease takes the lives of our loved ones, friends and colleagues, sometimes without warning. It’s a devastating disease that knows no barriers.” “However, there are many things that people can do to reduce their risk such as being physically active, which has numerous benefits, including keeping excess weight off and helping your mental wellbeing,” Mr Stubbs said. The CBR100 Challenge is an opportunity to walk or run 100km, 50km or 25kmalong Canberra’s Centenary Trail over the weekend of 21-22 March 2015. Participants can compete as an individual or form a team of three, and receive a comprehensive training and nutrition program as well as professional advice and support in the lead-up to the event. Being held for the first time in 2015, the event is an initiative of Earlybird Events, in partnership with the ACT Government and the ACT Heart Foundation.

“For us, the CBR100 Challenge is an opportunity to continue to raise awareness of our work and of course, to raise the funds that we need in order to keep doing that work.” “Just as importantly though, it’s an opportunity to share that message, of active living and regular moderate exercise along with maintaining a healthy diet, which is critical to our core purpose,” Mr Stubbs said. Earlybird Events Director Kimberlee King said the idea for the Challenge came about earlier this year. “I completed my first 100km walk last year, and while it was certainly a challenge I really enjoyed the thrill and sense of camaraderie that resulted from achieving such a goal as part of a great little team.” “So I set about recreating the event locally and with the Centenary Trail having just been completed, it seemed the perfect setting to get people active.”

“The timing of the event couldn’t be better; the 12-week training program will kick off right after the Christmas/New Year period, so you can enjoy training outdoors during the warmer summer months and burn off some of that festive season food!.”. “We’re grateful that so many members of the community have already come on board to support this event, and we’re looking forward to watching everyone’s progress over the coming months,” said Ms King. To find out more or register now, visit cbr100challenge.com.au or search for CBR100 Challenge on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

recruits THE

ISSUE 1

#BLEEDGREEN

DEC 2014

RAIDERS.COM.AU

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE THE 2014 SEASON WAS A CHALLENGING ONE FOR OUR BELOVED RAIDERS HOWEVER THE BOARD WHOLEHEARTEDLY BELIEVES THAT WE ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK TO A BIGGER AND BETTER GREEN MACHINE IN 2015. Our coach, Ricky Stuart, aided and abetted by Dean Pay, Mick Crawley and their support staff, has set in train the foundations of a transformation in the club’s culture. That’s very hard work, but it is also a pre-requisite to the dawn of a new and exciting era for the Canberra Raiders. There’s some wonderful young talent on display in our team, with the likes of Jarrod Croker, Edrick Lee, Josh Papalii, Paul Vaughan and Jack Wighton demonstrating their claims to be representative players as they benefit from our cultural renewal.

Dr Allan Hawke

Once again, 2014 saw the club unearth some exciting prospects, with Kurt Baptiste, Shannon Boyd, Mitch Cornish, Brenko Lee, Kyle O’Donnell, Jordan Rapana and Jeremy Hawkins all making their NRL debuts and gaining valuable experience as they strive to cement a place in the top team.

Our junior development programs under Dave Hamilton’s leadership continue to be among the best in the competition and the results were there to see with the Harold Matthews (Under 16’s) and SG Ball (Under 18’s) teams making the finals last year. We depend on continued success in these grades, allied with a stronger retention program. We are hopeful that the NRL recognise our efforts and start to reward Clubs who develop juniors in a more tangible way. Fostering strong relationships with our corporate partners and sponsors and retaining their support gives us the wherewithal necessary to become competitive on the park.

In conjunction with the emergence of the aforementioned players, our recruitment efforts have seen several highly talented additions to the Raiders 2015 playing squad.

Huawei’s decision to extend their deal as our Major Sponsor into the 2015 season is particularly encouraging. Huawei have stood by us since their first commitment as a sponsor for a major sporting team in 2012 and we esteem their loyal and extensive contribution. We still hope to host a game in China and use our strong partnership to make this happen.

The Raiders are pleased to welcome the likes of Blake Austin, Josh Hodgson, Isosia Soliola, Sisa Waqa and Sam Williams to the club for the upcoming season and look forward to seeing their careers continue to flourish under the famous lime green jersey.

We acknowledge and thank our other major corporate partners - Defence Housing Australia, Local Liquor, Abode Hotels, ACTTAB, Canberra Milk, Carlton United Breweries and Coca-Cola, along with the valued assistance from the ACT Government and the Raiders Trading Group.

The quintet will add skill, expertise and toughness to crucial positions within the team as well as significantly bolstering the depth of an already impressive young squad.

To our loyal members and supporters, we rely on and thank you for turning up week in week out to show your unconditional support and as we work towards our goal of 10,000 club members.

The experience of players such Soliola and Waqa, in addition to the likes of David Shillington, Dane Tilse and Shaun Fensom, will assist in guiding the next generation of Raiders stars into the first grade arena and continuing our quest for premiership glory.

I look forward to seeing you all in 2015. We are Raiders! Allan Hawke Chairman Canberra Raiders

recruits MEET THE

SISA WAQA GROWING UP ON THE ISLAND OF SUVA IN HIS NATIVE FIJI, SISA WAQA COULD ONLY DREAM OF DONNING THE FAMOUS LIME GREEN JERSEY OF THE RAIDERS IN THE NRL JUST LIKE HIS IDOL NOA NADRUKU. But now, after years of hard work and four outstanding seasons with the Melbourne Storm, Waqa has the opportunity to live out one of his childhood fantasies. As a youngster during the halcyon days of the Raiders, Waqa idolised the likes of Daley, Meninga and Stuart, but more than anybody, it was the flying Fijian Nadruku that stole his affection. Waqa would spend his days on playing fields in Fiji mimicking Nadruku’s every step, swerve and long range try in the bold quest to one day emulate his breathtaking feats. “Noa Nadruku was one of my idols growing up,” Waqa revealed. “He was one of Fiji’s greatest rugby league players and one of the Raiders greatest ever wingers. “Canberra was one of my favourite teams when I was kid back home in Fiji. I really looked up to the likes of Ricky Stuart, Laurie Daley and Mal Meninga but especially Noa Nadruku. To be here now is an exciting time for myself and for my family.

national side that was invited to play in the 1992 Rugby League World Seven’s tournament and they beat Canberra in their first game. Dad actually scored the winning try. I think Ricky Stuart still remembers that game. We’ve still got the tape back home and we watch it every now and then.” In conjunction with wishing his father all the best of luck before he departed for the tournament, a five year old Sisa Waqa asked his father for just one thing. “Before my dad came out to Australia to play local club footy and in the sevens tournament, the one thing that I asked him for was to bring me back a Canberra Raiders jersey when he came home,” Waqa said with a smile on his face. “He ended up bringing me a Raiders jersey when he came back to Fiji and I kept it for a lot of years; it was very cool for me to have that jersey and I remember wearing it and pretending that I was like Noa.”

“It’s an absolute dream come true to be completely honest and I really want to continue the legacy that Noa has left here at the club.”

Fast forward to 2015 and Waqa will now have the opportunity to once again don the Raiders jersey and attempt to emulate the great feats of Nadruku.

Interestingly, although Waqa has never met Nadruku, his father Eddie played with the man who netted 73 tries in 92 games for the Green Machine during the 1990’s.

“Running out onto GIO Stadium in the Raiders jersey is something that I’ve been dreaming about. Whether it is a trial game or in the Nines, it will be a massive thing for me to pull on that famous green jumper for the first time.

“Noa played with my Dad back in Fiji in rugby union and rugby league,” Waqa said. “There was a Fijian

RAIDER • ISSUE 1 • DEC 2014

“It will be a dream come true for me really.”

Sisa is wearing the new grey marle â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;CRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Raiders hoody from ISC Sport. Available to order at RaidersShop.com.au or in-store at Jerseys Megastore. Mens $59 Ladies $49

recruits JOSH HODGSON MEET THE

AFTER SHOWCASING HIS WARES AGAINST THE BEST COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD AT THE RECENT FOUR NATIONS TOURNAMENT, JOSH HODGSON IS STEELING HIMSELF TO TEST HIS ABILITY IN THE TOUGHEST RUGBY LEAGUE COMPETITION IN THE WORLD, THE NRL. Born and bred in Hull, Hodgson rose to become captain of his local side, the Hull Kingston Rovers after breaking into the top grade in 2010.

“I know the club missed out on the semi-finals this year and returning to finals football will be one of our goals in 2015.”

In his five years at the club, the rugged hooker established himself as one of the side’s most integral members scoring 37 tries in his 125 appearances.

Whilst Hodgson will head into 2015 in a confident frame of mind after picking up Hull KR’s Player of the Year Award and breaking into the national side, he is under no illusions that he will be a walk up start to the Raiders number nine jersey.

Despite his standing at the club, Hodgson has chosen to leave the security at Hull KR and the English Super League altogether to test himself in the NRL. “I loved my time at Hull KR,” Hodgson said. “They helped me progress a lot as a player and as a person in my five years there but the NRL is said to be the best league in the world and it’s always something I said I would do if the opportunity came along. “When the opportunity came along at the Raiders I knew deep down that I wanted to make it happen, although it was still a tough decision to leave Hull KR, especially being the side’s Captain. “I’m very happy with my decision though and I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead.” Hodgson agreed to terms with the Raiders due to the club’s rich history and his desire to be a part of Ricky Stuart’s rebuilding plans. “Canberra is a big club with a lot of history behind it and I am really looking forward to being a part of Ricky’s team for next season and a part of the rebuilding process to restore the club to where it should be,” Hodgson enthused. “Ricky spoke to me about the club and what they are about and it is something I feel I will adapt well into.

RAIDER • ISSUE 1 • DEC 2014

He candidly admits that the NRL is the best rugby league competition in the world and is determined to earn his stripes throughout the pre-season and during the trials, in order to win over his new coach, team mates and club members. “It was a proud moment to pick up both the Player of the Year Award and Player’s Player awards at the Rovers and to have represented England in the recent Four Nations tournament,” Hodgson said reflectively. “Whilst that gives me some confidence, at the same time it’s a fresh start at Canberra and a blank canvass so to speak. I know that I have to work hard and make a good impression. “It’s good to see English blokes going over and making a success of themselves. Burgess and Graham were both top players in the Super League so hopefully I can work hard and do the same as them in the NRL. “I have watched quite a few NRL games since I signed and I’m excited about the talented youngsters coming through the ranks at the Raiders. There’s plenty of competition for spots but I didn’t come over here to fail. “I want to make the club proud.”

Josh is wearing the 2015 Raiders training singlet from ISC Sport. Available to order at RaidersShop.com.au or in-store at Jerseys Megastore. Adults $59

Get the official ISC range of 2015 training gear, jerseys, tees and more in our new online shop!

Club members receive a 10% discount on all clothing.

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recruits MEET THE

SAM WILLIAMS “I FEEL LUCKY TO COME HOME AND HAVE THE CHANCE TO RE-ESTABLISH MYSELF AT THE CLUB. I WOULD HAVE LIKED TO HAVE HAD A GAME AGAINST THE BOYS LAST YEAR AND WON BUT WE DIDN’T HAVE THAT OPPORTUNITY.” Home Sweet Home

Learning from Ricky Stuart

The Canberra Raiders have always been home for me and I’m very happy to be back and be a part of the 2015 squad. I grew up supporting the Raiders and to make my debut in the famous lime green jersey was a dream come true. It’s definitely been an interesting 12 months being away from the club it couldn’t have worked out any better.

Obviously being a halfback I can’t wait to start working with Ricky. He’s the best halfback that the Raiders have had and one of the best of all time so the opportunity to work underneath him is one that excites me.

I certainly wouldn’t change the last 12 months because I’ve had a lot of opportunities to travel the world and have met some different people but I’m thrilled to be back and be a part of this club again.

I’ve heard lots of good things from the players and staff about what Ricky has brought to the club and the changes that have been made. I’m excited to be a part of a squad that’s growing and I think that we’re going to have a really good year in 2015.

When I got the call to come back to the Raiders I’d only been in France for a few weeks but I’ve always said to the Raiders management that I’d like to come back one day. I was thankful to the Catalans for giving me an opportunity to play over there, but after finishing the year off in France I never had to think much about returning to the Raiders. I’ve come through the juniors here, I’m passionate about the area and basically, the club is home to me.

Experience from 2014 Rugby League can be a funny game sometimes; it can bring you up but then knock you back down quickly so you’ve got to ride the highs and the lows. I’m not the only player to experience those things but you’ve just got to keep on moving forward and trying to improve. You learn a lot about yourself and your character in the dark times and I enjoyed my experiences at both clubs last year even though there were some bad times along the way. Moving on is not a decision I regret. I had the chance to make new friends at St George and play semi-finals football in the English Super League with the Catalans. I’m glad to be back here though and I want to do everything I can to ensure that I’m a part of this team for many years to come.

Competition for spots The club has signed Blake Austin and Mitch Cornish made his debut last year so I’m not under the impression that I’ll be a walk up start to the number seven jersey. I’m a fairly competitive person as it is so the competition for spots in the halves is something that will bring out the best in me. It doesn’t matter what NRL club you’re at, nobody is going to just hand you a jersey, you have to work hard for it and that’s what I’m motivated to do. Ricky has spoken about having depth in the squad to ensure that we’re all pushing each other and on the way up and that’s really exciting to be a part of.

Sam is wearing the 2015 Raiders tech hoody from ISC Sport. Available to order at RaidersShop.com.au or in-store at Jerseys Megastore. Mens $99 Ladies $89 Kids $69

recruits MEET THE

IOSIA SOLIOLA NO MATTER WHAT CODE OF SPORT YOU FOLLOW, THE VERY SUCCESSFUL TEAMS ARE BUILT ON THE BACK OF AN EFFECTIVE TEAM CULTURE. Within such successful team cultures are individuals that drive a the team’s culture or even enhance it upon their arrival. Iosia Soliola is one of these individuals. A culture creator if you will. Somebody who will enhance the side’s culture, whilst also honouring the already proud history of the club. “Sia brings a lot of strengths to our roster that will assist in us continuing to build a successful culture here at the club,” Ricky Stuart said. “He has a lot of experience and possesses a winning personality that lifts the culture wherever he goes. “Sia has a quiet style of leadership whereby he tends to lead by example, but he also has a very good sense of humour which creates a good, positive mood within the team. He is definitely a role model for our younger players and is a real asset to the club.” Stuart is glowing in his praise of Soliola and the esteem in which the new Raiders recruit holds his coach is clearly reciprocated. It was after all Stuart who hand-picked Soliola to make his debut for the Roosters in 2005 at just 18 years of age. “The major reason in joining the Raiders was my affiliation with Ricky,” Soliola said. “I’ll be forever thankful for him giving me the opportunity to make my debut all those years ago and I’m thankful to him again for the opportunity to join the Raiders and be a part of the club’s resurgence. “Ricky has always been someone that I’ve looked up to, ever since I first started playing. He’s taught me a lot about Rugby League and I’ve based my game around what he’s taught me.

RAIDER • ISSUE 1 • DEC 2014

“I’ve got nothing but praise for Stick!” The task assigned to Soliola by Stuart is an entirely different one to the instructions given to him when he made his debut 10 years ago. In the decade since he debuted as a raw-boned, shy, yet eye-catchingly talented youngster, Soliola has developed into an outstanding leader and a deeply respected figure in international rugby league. The 28 year old scored a pivotal try in St Helen’s 2014 Grand Final victory and captained Samoa at the 2013 Rugby League World Cup with distinction. “I have come a long way since 2005 and that is something that I am proud of,” Soliola said. “Ricky wants me to take on more of a leadership role with the club next year and help guide through the club’s talented young players. “Some of our players need a bit of guidance and I’ve had a lot of experience both in the NRL, in England and at international level so hopefully I can help them out wherever possible. I believe we are in is a similar situation to the one I was at with St Helens when I first arrived and we ended up rising to great success. “I looked at the team last year and they were actually quite an exciting team even though the results didn’t go their way throughout the season. Towards the back end though you could see the side had improved and were looking like a team that could start fighting for premierships in the future. “I feel like this is really a time where we can create a culture within ourselves and begin a new and successful era for the Canberra Raiders.”

Iosia is wearing the 2015 Raiders training tee and shorts from ISC Sport. Available to order at RaidersShop.com.au or in-store at Jerseys Megastore. Tee – Adults $69 Shorts – Adults $59

recruits MEET THE

BLAKE AUSTIN AS A BUDDING RUGBY LEAGUE STAR GROWING UP IN PENRITH, ALL BLAKE AUSTIN WANTED TO DO WAS WEAR THE JERSEY NUMBER OF HIS FAVOURITE POSITION AS HE ASCENDED THROUGH RANKS OF THE GAME’S HIGHEST LEVELS. That jersey number was six, and his position five-eighth. Alas, due to his tremendous versatility and a level of confidence which was still developing, Austin was chopped and changed from position to position. All that has come to a sharp halt though, as Austin now has the strength of character to declare that he “wants the number six jersey.” “As a youngster I was always a five-eighth, but I was used as a hooker for Harold Matthews and at lock in SG Ball and Under 20’s,” Austin said. “The challenge for me has always been about backing myself to be a number six; for too long I umm’d and ahh’d about cementing myself there but I see myself as a five-eighth and I’m ready to admit that that is where I want to play.”

“There is a great opportunity for Blake here at the club in the position that he wants to play,” Stuart said. “He has impressed me so far; he’s willing to compete and when you’re willing to compete you’re always going to be in the fight and that’s what I like about him. “He is only young so we can mould him into the player that we want him to be but already he’s brought a lot of energy and competitiveness to our training sessions. He’s always very early to each session and has done a lot of extras afterwards. His attitude has begun to rub off onto others.” Stuart’s long-time halves partner and the greatest player to ever don the number six jersey for the Raiders, the mercurial Laurie Daley, has wholeheartedly endorsed the signing of Austin.

Austin has declared his intentions without any hint of arrogance, but more of a fiercely determined individual who is driven to succeed for himself and his young family.

“It will be a great boost for the Raiders to have someone of Austin’s ability at the club,” Daley said. “He takes on the line, has a good running game and always wants the footy.”

The father of two is under no illusions that he will be granted a walk up start to the number six jersey and is expecting no favours from Ricky Stuart and the rest of the coaching staff.

Last year was undoubtedly Austin’s finest season of first grade since his debut for Penrith in 2011, however the talented pivot plans on taking his game to a new level in 2015 as the Raiders embark on what he describes as “something special.”

“I’m not coming here expecting to be handed the number six jersey, I want to earn it,” Austin said. “I plan on playing five-eighth and I will endeavour to work as hard as I can to ensure that I do. “There are no favours handed out in the NRL so I want to work as hard as I can to make sure that Ricky thinks I’m the best man for the job and that my new team mates respect his decision.” Given Austin is just 23 years old, Stuart has conveyed to his new recruit that the opportunity is there to make the position his for as long as he wants it.

“I came a long way as a five-eighth last year but I’ve still got plenty to learn and I’m motivated to work hard and learn all I can from Ricky,” Austin said. “The coaching staff has been really upbeat and positive and they have clear goals on where they want the team to be. Everything is laid out for us and we know what we have to do so it’s up to us to dig in and work hard for each other and for our Members, sponsors and fans. “We’re all confident in the squad that we’ve got here and that was one of the reasons why I was so happy to come here. There are great signs ahead for the Raiders and I’m excited to be a part of it.”

Blake is wearing the 2015 Raiders basketball singlet from ISC Sport. Available to order at RaidersShop.com.au or in-store at Jerseys Megastore. Adults $79 Kids $69

2015

DICK SMITH NRL

AUCKLAND NINES Mitch is wearing the 2015 Raiders Auckland Nines jersey from ISC Sport. Available to order at RaidersShop.com.au or in-store at Jerseys Megastore. Adults $159 Kids $129

LAST YEAR’S INAUGURAL DICK SMITH AUCKLAND NINES PROVED TO BE ONE OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE RUGBY LEAGUE CALENDAR AND A BRILLIANTLY ENTERTAINING AND COLOURFUL WAY TO KICK OFF THE SEASON. Featuring a prize pool of over $2 million and all 16 sides of the NRL, the 2015 Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines is sure to be another spectacular event. With just nine players per side and nine minute halves chocked full of high-octane action, the pace and action of this exciting format of the game is guaranteed to be nothing short of thrilling viewing. The Raiders will wear their specially developed ‘Green Machine’ jersey in the tournament as pictured above. They feature in the Hunua Pool, playing 3 preliminary games against the Tigers, Titans and Warriors. If you want to be there LIVE then book your travel package at sportsnetholidays.com/nrl95, and quote the Raiders club code ‘RAIDERSNINES’ to receive a free Nines gift!

RAIDER • ISSUE 1 • DEC 2014

raiders return to seiffert THE CANBERRA RAIDERS NRL SQUAD RETURN TO THEIR SPIRITUAL HOME OF SEIFFERT OVAL FOR THEIR FINAL OFFICIAL NRL PRE-SEASON TRIAL MATCH AGAINST THE NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS ON SATURDAY 21 FEBRUARY 2015, AHEAD OF THE TELSTRA PREMIERSHIP KICK-OFF IN EARLY MARCH. Seiffert Oval was the club’s home ground from their inaugural year in 1982 right through to 1989, when the Club claimed their first premiership title, before moving to Bruce Stadium in 1990 (now known as GIO Stadium).

“We have had some very strong interest in this trial match already and I strongly encourage anyone interested in attending the match to grab your ticket before it’s too late,” Queanbeyan Mayor, Cr Tim Overall said.

Ticket prices for the trial match are:

Foundation players like David Grant, Steve O’Callaghan and Jay Hoffman proudly called Seiffert Oval home, while Club legends including Mal Meninga, Laurie Daley and Bradley Clyde just to name also graced the hallowed turf of this venue when they regularly delighted attending fans in the late 80’s.

“The Raiders’ return to Seiffert Oval will be a great event for the Queanbeyan community and I am particularly looking forward to seeing Seiffert Oval buzzing with 10,000 spectators.”

• Adults – $10 pre-purchase

Under the guidance of the Queanbeyan City Council, the ground is currently undergoing a major upgrade of facilities which will be completed just in time for what is sure to be a memorable event in the New Year. Tickets are already on sale for the 2015 Official Trial match with pre-purchase adult tickets available for just $10 each and children’s tickets only $5.

• Queanbeyan City Council’s Customer Service Centre • Raiders Gungahlin • Raiders Belconnen • Mawson Club • Queanbeyan Kangaroos Leagues Club • Jerseys Megastore, Fyshwick • Raiders HQ, Bruce

PERFORATION

• Adults – $15 at the gate Queanbeyan Council proud

ly presents

Official NRL 2015 Trial Match

Buy a Big Mac get one FREE ®

Raiders V Knights

Saturday 21 February 2015 Seiffert Oval, Gates Open at 4.00pm Queanbeyan NSW • Prelimin Main game kick-off atary match at 4.30pm 6.30pm ADULT $10 pre-purchase or $15* at the gate (*NRL Club Members

$10 at the gate)

ly presents

PERFORATION

• Raiders Weston

• NRL club members – $10 pre-purchase and at the gate

TICKET NOT VALID WITHO UT

• Queanbeyan Leagues Club

OUT TICKET NOT VALID WITH

Organisers are expecting the 10,000 tickets available to be snapped up very quickly.

Fans can acquire tickets for the match from any of the below listed sales venues:

• Children – $5 pre-purchase and at the gate

Queanbeyan Council proud

Official NRL 2015 Trial Match

Knights Raiders V February 2015

Saturday 21 an NSW Seiffert Oval, Queanbey 4.30pm • Preliminary match at Gates Open at 4.00pme kick-off at 6.30pm Main gam at the gate D $5 pre-purchase and

CHIL

Valid 21/2/15 - 7/3/15 only at McDona ld’s® Restaurants in ACT & QUEANB EYAN

Hand in this voucher when ordering to receive offer. Limit of one voucher per person per day. Not to be used to discount any other offer or McValue Meal® purchase. Available after 10.30am.

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McDonald’s® Valid 21/2/15 - 7/3/15 only atBEYAN Restaurants in ACT & QUEAN THIS VOUCHER IF CHILD IS UNDER 14 YEARSA PARENT/C ARER. MUST BE REDEEMED WITH other offer or a Not to be used to discount any purchase. Limit of one Happy Meal®/McValue Meal®Available after 10:30am. voucher per person per day.

SUPPORT THE CLUBS SUPPORTING OUR CLUB. RAIDERS CLUBS ARE PROUD MEMBERS OF THE RAIDERS FAMILY.

ACTEWAGL DECEMBER EVENTS CALENDAR SATURDAY 6/12

SUNDAY 7/12

ACT GRADE CRICKET Ginninderra V Weston Creek 11am Kippax Oval North Canberra V Eastlake 11am Harrison Oval ANU V Queanbeyan 11am ANU North Western District UC V Tuggeranong 11am Jamison

TUESDAY 9/12

ACT BASEBALL Bandits V Cavalry Academy 7pm Narrabundah Ballpark

W-LEAGUE Canberra United V Perth Glory 3pm Viking Park

THURSDAY 11/12

BASEBALL Cavalry V Melbourne Aces 7pm Narrabundah Ballpark

FRIDAY 12/12

SUNDAY 7/12

ACT BASEBALL Rebels V Bandits 3pm Aranda Oval Indians V Vikings 3pm Stirling Oval Eagles V Bears 3pm Kambah Oval

BASEBALL Cavalry V Melbourne Aces 7pm Narrabundah Ballpark

SATURDAY 13/12

BASEBALL Cavalry V Melbourne Aces 7pm Narrabundah Ballpark

SUNDAY 14/12

SATURDAY 13/12

ACT GRADE CRICKET Ginninderra V Weston Creek 11am Kippax Oval North Canberra V Eastlake 11am Harrison Oval ANU V Queanbeyan 11am ANU North Western District UC V Tuggeranong 11am Jamison

TUESDAY 16/12 ACT BASEBALL Eagles V Cavalry Academy

WEDNESDAY 17/12

SEC0414/04

ActewAGL Retail ABN 46 221 314 841.

ACT BASEBALL Indians V Cavalry Academy 7pm Narrabundah Ballpark

BASEBALL Cavalry V Melbourne Aces 12pm Narrabundah Ballpark

SUNDAY 14/12

WNBL Capitals V Townville Fire 3pm AIS Arena

SATURDAY 20/12

ACT GRADE CRICKET Western District UC V ANU 11am Jamison Oval Queanbeyan V North Canberra 11am Freebody Eastlake V Weston Creek 11am Kingston North Tuggeranong V Ginninderra 11am Chisholm Oval

SATURDAY 27/12

BASEBALL Cavalry V Adelaide Bite 1pm Narrabundah Ballpark

SUNDAY 14/12

ACT BASEBALL Indians V Bandits 3pm Stirling Oval Bears V Vikings 3pm Majura Oval Rebels V Eagles 3pm Curtin Oval

SUNDAY 21/12

ACT GRADE CRICKET Western District UC V ANU 11am Jamison Oval Queanbeyan V North Canberra 11am Freebody Eastlake V Weston Creek 11am Kingston North Tuggeranong V Ginninderra 11am Chisholm Oval

SUNDAY 28/12

BASEBALL Cavalry V Melbourne Aces 6pm Narrabundah Ballpark

MONDAY 29/12

BASEBALL Cavalry V Melbourne Aces 12pm Narrabundah Ballpark

We’d love to get social with you. From the juniors through to our sports stars, we’re just as passionate as you are about local sport. So whether you’re a Brumbies, Caps or Raiders fan, follow our facebook page for regular ticket giveaways, meet the player’s day events and match day information.

RUGBY UNION

STATE OF PLAY:

cheika lobs to fix the wallabies mess

by brett mckay Bear in mind, too, Cheika will remain in charge of the Waratahs again in 2015, the final year of his existing contract. This is not without precedent, however, with Eddie Jones coaching the Brumbies to a Championship in 2001 before taking the Wallabies reigns. Robbie Deans, too, continued to coach the Crusaders in New Zealand for the 2008 season, despite having been unveiled as Wallabies coach in December 2007. And this is where the input from - and possible involvement of - the Super Rugby coaches could prove crucial in a RWC year. All the coaches know the strengths and weaknesses of the respective sides, but when pulling together in the same direction, technical deficiencies can be corrected quickly. Cheika has already said he’s excited by the prospect of working with his counterparts in a Wallabies setting, despite trying to pull apart each other’s gameplan for the six months preceding. In many respects this is what the Kiwis have doing for a decade.

ERGH, IT’S BEEN A ROUGH TIME TO BE A RUGBY FAN IN AUSTRALIA OF LATE. THE WHOLE KURTLEY BEALE SAGA HAS FINALLY REACHED ITS’ CONCLUSION, AND THE WALLABIES HAVE LANDED IN EUROPE WITH A NEW COACH IN TOW. But it’s the mess that’s left behind the rather unpleasant taste.

unite the five state unions, asking Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham to join him on the current tour.

What started as an argument on an aeroplane descended within days to claims and counterclaims of bullying and harassment, and the rather sensational revelation of obscene and offensive message sent to a member of staff.

Larkham declined the opportunity, as did Western Force coach Michael Foley and Queensland Reds mentor Richard Graham - all of them citing an unwillingness to compromise their respective sides’ off-season preparations. But the door remains open for any and all of the state bosses to join Cheika in a unified national setup next season in the lead up to the World Cup.

In the end, it saw the stress-related departure of former Wallabies Business Manager, Di Patston, and the completed unpredicted and dramatic resignation of Wallabies coach, Ewen McKenzie, only minutes after the heartbreaking third Bledisloe Cup Test loss in Brisbane. The ARU and CEO Bill Pulver scrambled in the days that followed, and did pull off something of a coup in the appointment of Waratahs’ Championshipwinning coach Michael Cheika for the next three years, including the all-important Rugby World Cup in England in September and October 2015. From an on-field perspective, there can be no doubt that right man has been appointed. More importantly, Chieka is already doing his best to

And for the moment, the on-field part of the post-McKenzie era does indeed look promising. Cheika took two years to transform the Waratahs from the perennial ‘February Premiers’ to genuine Super Rugby Champions, but he’ll have less than a year to turn the Wallabies into RWC contenders. The transition from the McKenzie approach won’t be that onerous, with the two coaches sharing similar views on how the game should be played. For players and supporters, this new era will be more about evolution rather than any massive revolution.

How Cheika goes about achieving that united front could well the challenge of his coaching career. On one hand, if there really is a NSW power-base among Wallabies players, then he won’t have to worry about them white-anting him. But it might take a little longer to get the players from other states on board. Realistically, that shouldn’t be too difficult, and Wallabies players have always been used to working with a new mentor at national level. Cheika is, a fairly uncomplicated character who has always worked on the simple things in order to achieve success. He’s not the only professional coach to win major provincial titles in both hemispheres by accident. So there’s two areas Wallabies fans will be looking for improvement: the evolution of the ballin-hand style of play that McKenzie also preferred to play, and a fairly immediate improvement in the attitudes of the players. The erosion of any player power base, perceived or otherwise, would be ideal as well. The last thing the Wallabies need in a World Cup year is more off-field malarkey. How much of that Cheika can achieve on this current five-week tour, we shall see. And with the on-field side of things looking up, maybe we could start addressing the many off-field issues sometime soon, Mr Pulver?

ACT SPORTSTAR AWARDS

BUCHANAN & POWELL MAKE HISTORY AT

act sportstar awards by joshua matic

ACT SPORTING HISTORY WAS CREATED ON OCTOBER 31 WHEN CYCLISTS SUSAN POWELL AND CAROLINE BUCHANAN SHARED NOT ONLY THE FEMALE SPORTSTAR AWARD, BUT ALSO THE OVERALL ACT SPORTSTAR AWARD, FOR 2014. It was the first time in the 30 year history of the award. The two female athletes proved inseparable in their sporting achievements for the year, and it was the first time the same two females had shared the top gong as well.

BMX and mountain biking champion Buchanan won the award previously, in 2010, and Powell, a track and road cyclist, has won the award twice; in 2011 and 2012. Powell became the first ever triple winner of the award. The period of review for the awards was September 1 2013 to August 31 2014, and both women have achieved career-defining feats in that time. September last year saw Buchanan win the Women’s C1 Four Cross World Championships in Austria, and since then, she has also taken out the Oceania Women’s BMX Championships and the Australian Women’s National BMX Championships.

Powell has taken out the Women’s C4 3,000 metre Individual Pursuit title at the 2014 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships since last September, and came third in the Women’s C4 Time Trial. She also claimed two gold medals at the Australian National Para-cycling Road Championships; one at the women’s time trial, and the other in the road race. San Antonio Spurs National Basketball Association 2014 winner Patrick Mills was named the inaugural recipient of the Harry Marr Award for home grown achievers. He played a crucial role for the Spurs to beat the Miami Heat in a seven game NBA championship series after going down to them last year. In doing so he also became the first indigenous Australian to win an NBA Championship. The other award recipients were: • The Canberra Times Male award: Michael Matthews (Cycling) • Sportsman’s Warehouse Junior award: Alexandria Nicholls (Cycling) • Konica Minolta Team award: Canberra Calvary (Baseball) • Coach award: Michael Collins (Baseball) • Beyond Bank Masters award: Jayne Hardy (Athletics) • WIN TV Network Community award: Margaret Bacchetto (Lawn Bowls) • NOVA Multimedia Official award: Ben Williams (Football) • ACTSPORT Volunteer award: Franca Jones (Rugby Union) For more information on the awards head to actsport.com.au

PLAY BY THE RULES

YOU CAN PLAY FORUM:

tackling homophobia and transphobia in sport MORE THAN 100 PEOPLE, INCLUDING WELL KNOWN ATHLETES, COACHES AND SPORTING PERSONALITIES, CAME TOGETHER ON 5 NOVEMBER 2014 IN CANBERRA FOR THE “YOU CAN PLAY FORUM”. THE FORUM’S AIM WAS TO RAISE AWARENESS AND ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO STAMP OUT HOMOPHOBIA AND TRANSPHOBIA IN SPORT. Award winning broadcast journalist and SBS nightly World News anchor Anton Enus facilitated the ground-breaking forum. Panellists involved in the discussion included: • Andrew Barr – Deputy Chief Minister of the ACT • Dr Caroline Symons – Leading Researcher at Victoria University • Gus Johnston – Anti-homophobia campaigner and former Victorian hockey player • Heather Reid – CEO of Capital Football • Clyde Rathbone – Retired Wallaby and Brumbies player In addition to those attending, 154 individuals watched the live-stream of the event, attracting in excess of 100 posts, comments and questions via social media during the hour-long forum. In addition, a tracking system recorded the #youcanplayforum hash tag as a twitter reach of more than 405,000, Twitter participants including residents of the USA and Canada as well as Australia. “Unfortunately, research indicates that there are still barriers to sport for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people, and anyone who has been out on the sporting field knows that there are still some elements of discrimination that occur,” said Shane Rattenbury, Minister for Sport and Recreation in the ACT.

“The forum is an important initiative to educate people and engage sport at all levels to address homophobia and transphobia, so that a more welcoming, safe and inclusive environment exists for everyone,” he said. The forum can be viewed at youcanplay.com.au along with two anti-homophobia video resources developed by the ACT Government, featuring prominent sporting identities and everyday Canberrans. Play by the Rules National Manager Peter Downs said the forum was part of broader work to make sport safe, fair and inclusive but that it takes positive action from all involved. Sport involves a community of people. Stamping homophobia and transphobia out of sport is the responsibility of that whole sporting community; participants, parents, spectators, officials and administrators all have a part to play in making sport safe, fair and inclusive.” Mr Downs said.

PLAY BY THE RULES

HALL PONY CLUB

gets a new home

ON A SUNNY SPRING DAY, MINISTER FOR SPORT AND RECREATION SHANE RATTENBURY OFFICIALLY OPENED THE NEW HOME OF THE HALL PONY CLUB AT THE HALL SHOWGROUNDS. Operating for more than 50 years, the club is an important part of the Hall village and the surrounding rural community, and has more than 60 junior and senior members. In addition to learning how to ride and care for their horses, members take part in a wide range of equestrian events including trail riding, showjumping and polo cross. Several children who learnt their early skills at the club have gone on to compete at both national and international level competitions. “The Hall Pony Club has a long and proud tradition of teaching young people a wide range of skills and it was great to be here with them today to see how well they have bonded with these wonderful animals,” said Mr Rattenbury. “I have no doubt that these great new facilities will be put to very good use by the people of Hall and the surrounding district and I look forward to them hosting many events in these new purpose built premises.” The new club shed was built at a cost of $220,000 as part of the ACT Governments’ Facilities Improvement Program managed by Sport and Recreation Services.

caps in the driver’s seat BASKETBALL

AS WE HIT THE HALFWAY MARK OF THE 2014/15 WNBL SEASON THE CAPS SIT IN A GREAT POSITION TO PLAY FINALS BASKETBALL. IN WHAT HAS BEEN AN UP AND DOWN SEASON AT TIMES, CAPS FANS SHOULD BE POSITIVE AS THE TEAM LOOKS TO HIT THE RIGHT GEAR AT THE RIGHT TIME.

There are a few factors that look to tip the favour the Caps way: Abby Bishop – Bishop is the form player of the WNBL. Her stats are up there with the best the WNBL – averaging 20 points per game and a league leading 13 rebounds per game, But her performances and leadership on and off the court have been unbelievable. Things have been on the up and up for Bishop this season including being named WNBL Player of the round twice this season (out of a possible seven rounds). This early form has many eyeing Bishop as the early MVP favourite for the 2014/15 WNBL season. Composure – The Caps young guns have benefited from a tough season last year and as the current season has progressed the team’s Composure has increased. The addition of Stephanie Talbot into the squad and the ever reliable Carly Wilson have also been a big factor in the Caps successes so far. The return of Kristen Veal and Michelle Cosier – Two league veterans with different games but equally important roles. Veal provides stability in the back court while Cosier does all the “1 percenters” – the hard ball gets and the tough defence. Two big game players that will feel right at home come finals time. The return of Lauren Jackson – arguably the greatest female basketball player to have strapped on a pair of boots. Jackson’s return this month cannot be under-estimated. Her influence on a team’s success is undeniable. The pairing with Abby Bishop should see the Caps go deep into the finals this season. The Bibby factor – never underestimate the importance of the X-factor and Bibby is the X-Factor for the Canberra Capitals. Having just announced her retirement at seasons end you can bet every player on the squad will be doing their upmost to send her out a winner.

DFO Shop T120 T102 I 337 Canberra Ave Fyshwick 2609 0403734739 I www.facebook.com/capzcanberra

Study the fast-tracked Certificate III (SIS30313) and IV (SIS40210) in Fitness at CIT! You could become a fully-qualified trainer is as little as 18 weeks! Ready to take it to the next level? Study the Diploma of Fitness (SIS50213) in 2015. APPLY NOW For more information attend the information session on Tuesday 9 December at CIT Bruce, Room B03b, 12-6pm, visit cit.edu.au/fitness or phone (02) 6207 3188

COERVER Coaching Master Class Series.

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: As you run down the wing with your opponent chasing after you.

Step 2: Use the sole of your foot to stop the ball suddenly but lightly while hopping past the ball on your other foot.

Step 3:

Step 4:

Step 5:

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

CRICOS No. 00001K. RTO Code 0101. NOVEMBER 2014. HCS141132.

Want to become a personal trainer?

CROSSWORD

CROSSWORD #32 1

7 8

10 11 12 13

16 17

5 Home town of the Pistons (7) 8 & 17 Storm, Queensland and Australian skipper (7, 5) 11 See 1 Down 13 Pain killer (7) 15 Snow (sports) (6) 16 Enquire of the umpire (6) 17 See 8 Down 20 Wager (3)

CROSSWORD #31 M A T T H E W

A J O R A O S C A E Y S O N O N L T I E N R Y A I G A N D E E E L A V I V I I G A S E L I L L O Y I D G E

T A L Y F A P T I C H E O U T I C K S H I L L E O A O A C H N A U S A N

1. How many medals did Ian Thorpe win at the Sydney Olympics?  Five (Three gold and two silver)

5. Who faced the infamous underarm delivery at the MCG on Feb 1, 1981?  Brian McKenzie

9. Who skippered the Australia II to America’s Cup victory in 1983? John Bertrand

2. Who holds the record for most tests as prop for the Wallabies?  Ewen McKenzie (51 tests)

6. In what year did South Melbourne become the Sydney Swans?  1982

3. How many medals did Russia win at the 1984 LA Olympics?  None, they boycotted

7. Which golfer is nicknamed ‘The Big Easy’?  Ernie Ells

10. What is the name of the fictional cricketer created by ‘The Panel’s’ Tom Gleisner?  Warrick Todd

4. What is Don Bradman’s middle name?  George

8. Which number is at 6 o’clock on the dartboard?  Three

LEFT HAND PAGE ADD

T A B E R

“A GOOD HOCKEY PLAYER PLAYS WHERE THE PUCK IS. A GREAT HOCKEY PLAYER PLAYS WHERE THE PUCK IS GOING TO BE.” WAY N E G R ETZ KY

RIGHT HAND PAGE ADD

I R O N M A N

1 & 11 Former England goalkeeping great (5, 7) 2 German tennis star ___ Graf (6) 3 Boxing’s greatest? (3) 4 Indian spin bowler, Murali ___ (6)

SPORT QUIZ

6 Home of NFL team the Seahawks (7) 7 Former Australian wicketkeeper Brian ___ (5) 9 Nickname of England cricketer Ian Botham (5) 10 Larrikin batsman Dougie ___ (7) 12 Retired Aussie swimmer born in Poland (7, 4) 14 Star Waratahs player, league convert to union (6, 5) 18 Former Aussie cricket captain Bobby ___ (7) 19 Wave foam (5) 21 British & Irish combined union side (5) 22 Free kick in the box (7)

DOWN

ACROSS

L O R D S

BIG SOUND

PUB STYLE FOOD

BIG SCREENS

BEER ON TAP

TAB

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