PLAY Canberra

NICK KYRGIOS | BRUMBIES HIT THE FINALS | BRAVE | DARTERS

ISSUE #36 • JULY/AUGUST 2014

H EY GL A SG OW! GET S ET T O RUM B LE WITH TH E

# C B R ’ s o w n national j udo cham p I O N READY TO ROLL AT THE COMMONWEALTH GAMES

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#36

fROM THE EdITOR

Dante Exum became the international man of mystery in this years NBA Draft, only showing glimpse’s of his brilliance to NBA clubs in the lead up to the Draft. Those glimpses must have been pretty spectacular because his name was all over the US press with many predicting he would be a top 3 pick. The draft, as always, threw up a few surprises and Dante was selected with pick 5 by the Utah Jazz – an amazing effort for an 18 year old straight out of year 12 from Canberra, Australia.

The name Nick Kyrgios was on the lips of every tennis fan around the world after his emphatic victory over Rafael Nadal. What was particularly exciting in the eyes of Australian tennis fans was the fight Nick possesses. That good old fashion fight that seems to have been missing in Australian tennis of recent years. That coupled with amazing skill and a killer serve (finishing Wimbledon with 128 aces) make Nick a future world number 1 – there, I said it!!

Watt an Attitude When NFL Defensive Lineman JJ Watt (Houston Texans) was asked if it bothered him that his teammates made fun of him because he was ‘too busy to have a personal life’, this was his reply:

Mills, Exum and Kyrgios No, it’s not a new law firm opening up on Northbourne Avenue but three of the hottest names in world sport at the moment – and they’re all Canberrans . Ok Exum might be an AIS ring-in, but Kyrgios and Mills are born and bred and setting the world on fire.

Patty Mills became the first Canberran to win an NBA title – staring in Game 5 of the finals series – and recently announced a deal extension with the San Antonio Spurs worth a reported $12million.

Keep an eye out on our twitter, Instagram and Facebook for details on Patty’s return to Canberra.

EDITOR

Nathan Minerds CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Anthony Nankervis COVER & FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY

Lightbulb Studio

JULY/ AUGUST 2014

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“I have a limited amount of time to build a career out of football and be the best that I can be at this job. When this job (football) is over, I have the rest of my life to do what I want to do with my time.”

“Right now my job is to watch film, workout, and treat my body right. When I get done with football, then I can relax and drink as many beers as I want and hang out and be a regular guy. Right now, I am a football player and I will sacrifice what is necessary to be the best.”

coNTeNTS

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Young blood

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Fox Sports Ben Ikin has warned the Canberra Raiders against rushing young guns into the NRL and it is a view I agreed with 100%. Many vocal fans have called for youngster Mitch Cornish and Jack Ahearn to be promoted to the top grade fulltime this year, but the step up from the NSW/ QLD Cup to NRL is huge and forcing that upon the youngsters could do more damage than good.

I have no doubt both these guys will be future NRL stars but we must allow them the time to develop their games against the bigger bodies in the NSW Cup before throwing them into the NRL full-time.

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AUSSIE RULES NEAFL: Shining the spotlight on Ainslie AUSSIE RULES Future Bright: AFL calling Steele AUSSIE RULES AFL: From rags to Richmond TENNIS #NKRising PLAY BY THE RULES InjurEdata & concussion in sport project RUGBY LEAGUE Canberra Raiders Cup: Minor Premiership a four-way race RUGBY LEAGUE Raiders go green for HULK RUGBY LEAGUE Should the NRL make its competition an even playing ground?

RUGBY UNION State of Play: Wallabies make French toast of June series RUGBY UNION Grand Final replay kicks off Super Rugby finals MENSLINK Lessons learned on an Olympic journey

Play hard until next month… nATHAn

WRITERS

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

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ben Coughlan Ben Southall Nudgepix Photography Amandakelly.com.au Joseph Purdam Ben Houston

EDITORIAL | editor@playcanberra.com.au | 0452 220 100 ADVERTISING | 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.

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Meet Canberra’s cyclists NETBALL Canberra Darters Season Launch FOOTBALL Transfer Madness: The story so far CRICKET Canberra’s Cricket World Cup dress rehearsal ICE HOCKEY CBR’s Brave Captain

AUSSIE RULES

shining the spotlight on

AINSLIE

by holly rourke The North East Australian Football League results after Round 12 look to be in local side Ainslie’s favor, with the team sitting in a tight sixth position on the NEAFL ladder. The tri-colours have had a good season this year, and are currently the only Canberra team with more wins than loses to their name.

Like a lot of the other Canberra based sides, Ainslie had a huge turnover of players this season, losing star players such as Marcus Crook, Simon Horner and leading goal kicker Josh Bennett.

However, Ainslie has not let this bring them down.

With a trio including long time coach Chris Rourke, new recruit to the team Nick Salter, and last year’s best and fairest Aaron Vandenberg, they have ensured that the side manages to stay on top.

Chris Rourke has been coaching at Ainslie for eight years now, and he states that although a turnover of players can be daunting, it allows for a fresh start for the team.

club whilst also bringing in the AFL experience.

Salter states that competiveness and fitness may be the reasons behind why the team is travelling so well this season.

“Having such a large turn over of players this year has created opportunities for a number of our younger players such as Shaun Campbell, Mitch Mulroney, Lucas O’neill and Jeremy Hirst. These players have all managed to step up and play really consistent football. We have also managed to hold on to a lot of our key leaders in the side including our captain Rob Tuohey, Dale Walker, Ian Lawless and Nick Hyne. Combing all these players together has ensured that our training and playing standards are always very high,” Rourke said.

“We are all very competitive and none of us like a loss, so that is definitely a motivator. We also had a really big pre season and our fitness levels are on point. As a side, we gel together really well and I think that we are in for a big chance in the finals” Salter says.

Rourke also states that Ainslie’s success this year could come down to the development of players and a change in the game style.

“With the success of the First Grade side and the Under 18’s side last year, we hoped that those players could step up and fill the void of players leaving, and that has worked out really well for us.

We have also put a bigger emphasis on our fitness levels as well as using different game styles this season” says Rourke.

Coming from a strong AFL background, Nick Salter has been the player to look out for this season, and he has definitely lived up to his high reputation.

So far, Salter has kicked over 30 goals for Ainslie, and is in the top 10 on the NEAFL MVP leaderboard.

Salter has sparked a positive energy around the

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Being apart of the Ainslie side for four years, last years best and fairest Aaron Vandenberg has become a key contributor to the strong team.

Vandenberg is still young, and every season he seems to continuously surprise everyone, including his coach, with his hard work and dedication to the beloved game. Vandenberg states that Ainslie, like a lot of the other Canberra sides, experienced a big change to their team this season, but they have managed to successfully fill the gaps left by past players.

“We did lose a few of out our key players but we have also gained a lot of talent this season. Losing Simon Horner was a big loss to the side but Nick Salter has come in and been a huge asset to our forward line. This year players like Sean Ellis and Cam Bernasconi have also really stepped up and we have begun to gel a lot better as a side,” says Vandenberg.

With a team full of up and comers, Ainslie may be the surprise packet come September.

AUSSIE RULES

FUTURE BRIGHT:

afl calling steele Canberra’s Jack Steele is only 18 years old but appears to have a bright future ahead of him if he continues his red hot form of 2014.

A strong mid fielder with very clean hands, he is smart with the ball and is not an easy opponent for the opposition. He works well under pressure and manages to do his job on the field faultlessly.

Although Steele’s career in the AFL does look promising, he has not forgotten why he started playing football.

Steele originally started playing AFL for the Gungahlin Jets in 2003 when he was just eight years old. He then moved on to play for the Belconnen Magpies where he is still currently playing. Steele states that when he first started playing, he didn’t realise how far he would go.

“When I first started playing it was just for fun.

I would love to make a career out of it now. If I work hard enough I think playing in the AFL could definitely be an option. That is my goal,” Steele said.

Steele’s achievements include being picked in the 2011 Under 16’s NSW/ACT Rams side, winning the best and fairest for the Belconnen Magpies in 2012 and being picked in 2013 and 2014 for the Under 18’s NSW/ACT Rams team who are currently competing in the National Championships.

Steele has also been a key player in the NSW/ACT team who have been competing in the TAC Cup in Victoria, an elite competition for Under 18 players.

He will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Luke Breust, Jarrod Witts, Matthew Suckling and Lloyd Perris, all former Rams who have made in to AFL level.

Although Steele does have a lot of football achievements to his name, he has not let this go to his head, stating that the reason he plays now is the same as it’s always been, because he loves the game.

“Dad originally got me into football. I still play now for the enjoyment of it and the atmosphere of not only the game but getting to play with my mates” says Steele”.

Steele will be exhibiting his talents in the next few weeks for the National Under 18’s Championships, where he will be hoping to impress the selectors in attendance.

Vale Ken Macdonald OAM – “Mr Eastlake” 17 August 1920 – 3 July 2014 Eastlake Football Club Board, Management, Members, Staff, Players and Past Players were saddened to learn of the passing of Ken Macdonald on Thursday 3 July 2014. Ken has been Patron of Eastlake Football Club since 1995 when he retired from the board after a total of 47 years of service.

Ken has been an Australian football administrator for more than 60 years. In 1994 his achievements as a football administrator were recognised when he was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia. His efforts were further recognised in 2003 when he was inducted into the ACT Sports Hall of Fame and again in 2010 when he was inducted into the AFL Canberra Hall of Fame for his contribution to Australian football in the ACT. Ken Macdonald’s involvement in Eastlake Football Club, has spanned seven decades – 50 years as a player, administrator and board member. As President of the Club, Ken instigated many initiatives and developments, including the building of the original Eastlake clubhouse at Kingston Oval in 1953 and was the driving force behind the development of the current Eastlake Club in 1965. Ken was President of Eastlake Football Club for a total of 21 years.

Ken’s achievements have been remarkable.

He was an easy-going and humble man, driven by his deep love of the game. He is without doubt, the greatest figure in the life of Eastlake.

Ken was born in 1920 in Ganmain in the Riverina. His family moved to Canberra in May 1925. His association with Eastlake began when he played in the Colts competition in 1938.

FROM RAGS TO

RIc

whAT STepS ShoULd The TiGerS TAke To eNSUre iT’S NoT The SAme oLd richmoNd STorY? What is happening down at Tigerland?

After a fantastic 2013 which saw Richmond storm into the finals for the first time in over ten years, the Tigers have regressed into the familiar tale of woe that has plagued the club for 30 years.

The boys from Punt rd. sit in the lamentable position of 15th on the ladder with just three wins to their name – it is simply not good enough for a team that promised to take the next step in their quest for an 11th premiership.

Or perhaps the Tigers vastly overestimated their current list of players.

Tigers’ coach Damien Hardwick was part of the Hawthorn coaching panel that completely revamped the Hawks from a mediocre team into a premiership winning powerhouse through shrewd player movements and smart recruiting.

The time has come for the man they call ‘Dimma’ to follow his mentor Alistair Clarkson’s lead.

An honest assessment of the club’s playing stocks is needed.

UNTOUCHABLES Few players on Richmond’s list have taken the next step in 2014; however, the precocious Dustin Martin is one such exception.

After an off-season the enigmatically talented youngster would like to forget, Martin has cast aside the uncertainty of his Richmond future by posting career-best highs in almost every category.

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AUSSIE AfL RULES

cHMOnd Along with Martin in the untouchable category is captain Trent Cotchin.

Whilst ‘Cotch’ has not had the same impact as he did in seasons prior, the Richmond skipper has runs on the board, and has carried the burdens of a club on his shoulders and refused to yield.

Lastly, classy on-baller Brett Deledio rounds out the list of players who can hold their heads high at Punt rd.

‘Lids’ provides the Tigers with the run-and-carry that only a handful of players in the AFL can provide, whilst possessing fantastic foot-skills and a keen goal sense to match.

TRADE BAIT The trade table is always a hot point of contention for sides that seem to think they can emulate the magic of Kevin Sheedy; who moved several unexceptional players to Fremantle to secure the rights to a certain 16-year-old by the name of Matthew Lloyd.

It just does not work like this anymore – if the Tigers are to secure anything of worth, they need to provide adequate compensation.

Whilst the Tigers will not be adverse to the idea of moving on talented yet inconsistent Tyrone Vickery, the former no.8 draft pick has failed to live up to the expectations of his lofty selection.

Tough decisions will have to come from the Richmond hierarchy, who will be looking to bolster both their forward-line and their midfield.

That is why Jack Riewodlt and Brandon Ellis’ names should be thrown up at season’s end.

Both players have currency, and whilst they will be part of Richmond’s plans going forward, the possibility of enticing a potential match-winner to Punt rd. may be too hard to resist.

WHO TO TARGET? The two areas that need addressing both pertain to the areas forward of centre – lucky for Richmond, two potential candidates to fill the void have presented themselves in the forms of David Mundy and Jeremy Cameron.

“The TiGerS LiST iS iN reASoNAbLe ShApe To reGroUp ANd ATTAck The 2015 SeASoN…” In Mundy’s case, given he is a restricted free agent at the completion of the 2014 season, the Tigers would only have to convince the Fremantle on-baller that Tigerland is the place to be for them to secure his services.

this year it’s that no price is too high when it comes to putting together the pieces of a premiership puzzle.

Mundy has indicated he will entertain the idea of returning to his native state of Victoria at season’s end, giving the Tigers a realistic shot at acquiring the stylish on-baller.

Despite a calamitous and unequivocal failure in 2014, the Tigers list is in reasonable shape to regroup and attack the 2015 season with the same gusto and endeavor that saw them challenge the top-four.

Conversely, superstar in the making Jeremy Cameron would require the potential suitor satisfying the current club’s needs, given he does not qualify for free agency.

Cameron – who is under contract until 2015 – is one of the hottest young properties in the game, and would command a hefty price tag, but if Sydney has shown the AFL world anything

WHAT WILL 2015 HOLD?

With some astute list-changes, aggressive recruiting and a much needed off-season reality check, it is not inconceivable to see the Tigers jump from the lower rungs of the ladder to an AFL flag candidate in the space of a year.

Then the Tiger army will have true reason to find their voice once more.

#nkrising TENNIS

“In the future he can be top five, he can win a grand slam of course.”

Now the youngest player in the top 100, Kyrgios has had rapid rise up the rankings and onto the radar of the Grand Slam champions.

So impressed was Federer that he invited the Australian to his home in Zurich to practice in the lead-up to the French Open in May. “It was an incredible experience,” Kyrgios says.

“I loved every minute of it.”

Roger Federer, Andy Murray and now, Rafael Nadal. All big names keeping a close eye on barnstorming Canberra teenager Nick Kyrgios.

If Kyrgios didn’t feel like he belonged in the big league when he first strolled into the All England Club last month, he should now.

On debut, the 19-year-old from Watson thundered his way to Wimbledon’s quarter-finals after shocking world No.1 Rafael Nadal in their fourth round Centre Court match.

If he hadn’t already, Kyrgios announced his arrival thanks to some audacious shot-making and a thunderbolt serve which blasted 37 aces past the 2008 and 2010 champion in his 7-6 (7-5), 5-7, 7-6 (7-5), 6-3 victory.

Nadal, however, warned the public not to put too much pressure on the young Australian, who is playing his first full season on the ATP tour.

“Everything is a little bit easier when you are arriving,” he said. “Everything is new. Nothing to lose. You can do whatever and will be positive, and everybody see just the good things on you.”

Thirteenth seed Richard Gasquet, his second round victim, predicted the flamboyant Australian teenager was destined for the world’s top 5.

“I like the attitude he has on the court, he’s very powerful and he fights a lot, so I think he will be very good in the future,’’ says Gasquet of Kyrgios, who came from two-sets-to-love down and saved nine match points to win after almost four hours.

Despite all the attention on and off the court, Kyrgios is trying to keep everything in perspective.

“I’m a small fish in a big pond out there,” he said before Wimbledon began.

“There’s obviously signs I can do something special in the sport, so I’ve just got to keep my head down and keep working hard ... It’s nice that they are taking notice but I’ve still got a lot of room for improvement in my game, mentally and physically.”

His Wimbledon experience is one he says he will “savour”.

“It’s been the best couple of weeks of my life.”

Australian coach and commentator Wally Masur says Kyrgios is “without doubt one of the brightest prospects in the game”.

The thing that impresses Masur most about the big-serving right-hander is that he seems to play his best tennis on the big points.

“He likes the big occasion,” he says. “He seems to like the big moment, the big match. The more attention he has on him, the better he plays.”

Masur believes the 19-year-old possesses so much power he can “basically win a lot of points on his racquet alone”.

“We won’t see the best of him for another three or four years, he’ll really show us what he has got by the time he is 24,” he says.

“The top part of his game is really good; he just needs to work on the physical aspect of his game, being able to back it up match after match.”

Kyrgios, who began playing tennis when he was seven with coach Andrew Bulley, is a

Next generation fitness

product of the Tennis Australia Athlete Development Program.

When he was 10 he joined the ACT National Academy under the guidance of former professional Todd Larkham before transitioning into Tennis Australia’s Pro Tour Program in 2012.

His victory at Nottingham in the lead-up to Wimbledon was the Canberran’s fourth ATP Challenger Tour title on three different surfaces, prompting Murray to declare him the “next big Aussie star”.

The victory earned him a wild card into the Wimbledon main draw.

While the achievements start piling up, so has the expectations, Kyrios admits.

$27million Next Generation fitness, sports and lifestyle club COMING SOON

“There’s a little bit of weight on my shoulders, but I’m trying to use it as motivation to keep going, to keep working on my game and improving,” he says.

“I’ve always said that you have to be a pretty good loser as every week there are a lot of losses, but you have to keep your head and keep motivated to improve, and hopefully your time will come.”

RESURFACING Grass roots tennis received a massive boost recently with the resurfacing of tennis courts at suburban clubs throughout Canberra.

The court upgrades at the Belconnen and Weston Creek tennis clubs was completed thanks to funding from ACT Sport and Recreation’s grants program.

Belconnen Tennis Club received $26,500 to resurface two of the club’s synthetic grass courts, while Weston Creek resurfaced four synthetic grass courts at a cost of $90,000.

Tennis ACT’s Community Tennis Manager Anthony Okines said the funding was part of Sport and Recreation’s asset repair and maintenance scheme.

“The funding has been crucial in helping these clubs maintain and improve their facilities after years of wear and tear,” he said.

“Members are already enjoying playing on the new synthetic grass courts.”

Next Generation Clubs have partnered with Tennis ACT to bring a unique fitness, sports and lifestyle offering unlike anything Canberra has seen before. With an amazing collection of health facilities scheduled to open over the next 12 months, Canberrans deserve to be excited about the new centre to be located in Lyneham on the city’s north side.

The revolution is coming The construction and redevelopment of The National Sports Club to create Next Generation Canberra is well underway, with the first stage of the project completed via the demolition of the existing Riggall Place building.

However, this is just the beginning. The development will provide a public access tennis facility alongside a multi-faceted health, leisure and lifestyle club, and the $27m project includes specific funding from the ACT Government and Tennis ACT to provide world-class tennis facilities.

While the overall project is due to be completed by mid-2015, the tennis complex will be operational in January 2015.

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Construction of the new club by well-established Canberra Builder Manteena – with designs by Turco and Associates Architects – will generate 100 direct construction jobs.

Next Generation Clubs Next Generation Clubs currently owns and operates a number of clubs throughout Australia and New Zealand with a proven track record of working with community-based sporting organisations to deliver state-of-the-art facilities.

The club will bring to Canberra much more than just a place to work out - it provides a new way to enjoy a healthy lifestyle. The superb facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, relaxation areas, squash courts, cafe, bar, bistro and lounge, plus a 1500sqm gym and exercise studios, alongside the tennis facility.

An asset for Canberra “We‘re delighted that construction is now underway and through our partnership with Tennis ACT and Tennis Australia, our unique brand of world-class facilities will soon be available to the Canberra community,” says Next Generation Clubs Director of Marketing and Product, Andrew Savage.

Tennis ACT CEO, Ross Triffit adds, “The National Sports Club held many memories and hosted great events over the years. We’re excited that the overall re-development of the site will create a new sporting destination for Canberrans.”

A revolution in health in fitness is coming soon!

Next Generation Canberra is due to open mid-2015.

Registrations of interest for membership can be made now through ngclubs.com.au

pLAY BY THE RULES

GoT AN iSSUe?

a lot of upheaval. But the particular matter will determine whether it is handled formally or informally. Regardless of how the matter is handled, the following principles should be applied: • complaints are treated seriously • complaints are acted on promptly

Every club should have a process for raising issues and for making complaints. In fact they will most likely have a range of processes depending on whether the matter relates to safety/risk management, a rule or policy infringement or a breach of the Code of Behaviour.

The

• people involved are treated fairly and all relevant points of view are considered • those addressing the complaint remain neutral • all parties involved are kept informed Clubs should welcome issues being raised because it is an opportunity to provide a better sporting experience for all involved. Clubs should also make known their complaint handling processes, ideally by publishing them online so their members can access them if required.

Many clubs and sporting organisations have Member Protection Information Officers, who can provide advice to an individual with an issue, so they know what their options are, and how their matter can be resolved. Member Protection Information Officers can also provide support to the person with the concern, particularly if they decide to lodge a formal complaint.

But some issues do not need to be handled through a formal process. In fact an informal process may be the most appropriate as it can allow the matter to be handled quickly and without

• confidentiality is maintained (as appropriate with laws and legislation) • the complainant is protected against victimisation • accurate notes and records are maintained • decisions are based only on information gathered, not personal views • disciplinary action is relative to the breach.

The Play by the Rules website provides information and resources on complaint handling, as well as club specific processes that can be adopted. A free online complaint handling course is also available from the website. Anyone can do the course but it is highly recommended for those that have to deal with complaints and grievances.

For more information on raising an issue and for a range of complaint handling tools, resources and processes, visit playbytherules.net.au

Fear of Finding Out

WS NHC0075/B PL

whAT do YoU do iF YoU hAve AN iSSUe wiTh YoUr cLUb ThAT YoU beLieve ShoULd be AddreSSed. perhApS YoUr chiLd’S coAch iS Too FocUSed oN wiNNiNG? perhApS A Few pAreNTS or pLAYerS iN The TeAm Are hAviNG A Go AT The reFeree? perhApS iT iS poTeNTiALLY A SerioUS mATTer, For exAmpLe YoU SUSpecT A chiLd’S SAFeTY iS AT riSk?

affects men’s health every day

If you’re putting off seeking health advice, take the first step in facing your fear and call healthdirect Australia on 1800 022 222 to speak to a registered nurse 24/7.

For more information visit www.healthdirect.gov.au

NHC0075_URG_Men_Press_ACT_PLAY_220x125_v2_FA.indd 1

21/02/14 5:11 PM

PLAY BY THE RULES

InjurEdata & Concussion in Sport Project

By Sports Medicine Australia ACT (SMA ACT), Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), University of Canberra (UC), Kidsafe ACT, RecordPro and supported by Sport & Recreation Services – ACT Government In 2012 the Injuredata Project was supported with $30,000 through the Sport & Recreation Grants Program to introduce a user‐friendly, portable injury record management system to capture injury data at sporting events within the ACT. The ability to quickly and effectively record injury details consistently is paramount in ongoing monitoring of injury, allowing the ability to identify developing trends and to take early action to minimise harm and increase participation in sport.

As an evaluation component of this project SMA ACT and UC is using the data collected to look at the relationships between participation, injury rates and trends within sports. In conjunction with the AIS, PhD Student Dr Lisa Elkington is using the program to recruit interested athletes for a concussion study. This study aims to improve detection of balance problems in athletes who are concussed which will improve the ability to care for these athletes, and prevent potentially catastrophic side effects of returning a concussed athlete to training or competition.

In 2014 SMA‐ACT joined with Kidsafe ACT to continue to develop this data over the next 5 years.

The joint goals are to improve the data available on injuries to children whilst participating in sport and support sporting clubs and parents to encourage greater participation in sport.

Release of free app for sports

A key element built from the project is the rolling out a free version of the software to the State Sporting Organisation’s and their sporting clubs to provide the capability to record and manage injuries.

aiders, event managers, and team administrators.

It is based on a platform which allows high level, reliable data analysis and reporting. The system is supported by a web app and is easy to use by any first aider recording basic information at the grass roots level, through to the team doctors who want a more detailed reporting system.

RecordPro is a data collection program which is an excellent tool for team practitioners, first

For further information contact trish.donoghue@sma.org.au

The improvement of injury prevention strategies is a vital part for safe participation within sport.

Sport & Recreation Services Education & Training Calendar – July-October 2014 Course

Delivery Date

Location

Time

Presenter/Facilitator Training Program

Monday 18 August

220 Northbourne Ave Braddon

9am– 5pm

A one-day workshop to equip attendees with the skills to deliver quality and effective coaching and officiating programs.

Assessor Training

Thursday 25 September

220 Northbourne Ave Braddon

9am– 5pm

This program is for people who assess sports coaches and officials. It will improve their skills in assessing competence, developing assessment tools, reviewing and validating assessments.

Mentor Training

Friday 17 October

220 Northbourne Ave Braddon

9am– 5pm

This program develops and enhances the skills of mentors working with coaches and officials in both community and high performance sporting environments.

Registration forms can be found at: http://www.economicdevelopment.act.gov.au/sport_and_recreation/learn Or by emailing sport_act@act.gov.au

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RUGBY LEAGUE

CANBERRA RAIDERS CUP

minor premiership a four-way race

@ maticjm

by joshua matic

The Canberra Raiders Cup competition is shaping up as one of the tightest in recent years heading into the second half of the season, with each of the top four in contention for the minor premiership.

“We’ve had a lot of injuries this season, but a lot of the boys are starting to come back now, so we’ve pulled through the tough times and we’re in a pretty good spot,” he said.

The Goulburn Workers Bulldogs had taken the lead on the competition by nine points differential, but in sitting on 10 competition points, they were also joined by the Queanbeyan Kangaroos and the Queanbeyan Blues, with just three points differential splitting those sides.

The Blues have bounced back with wins after suffering two shock early losses to the Queanbeyan Kangaroos and the West Belconnen Warriors.

But what is perhaps most remarkable is the resurgence of the West Belconnen Warriors.

They sat in fourth place on nine points heading into round eight, with four wins- just one win less than their last three seasons combined- and even more impressive is they have already dispatched both Queanbeyan ventures, who played in last season’s grand final.

New head coach at the Warriors Justin Giteau is the talk of the competition at the moment, having taken the reigns and attracting a new halves combination and a much larger forward pack.

The men from the west are certainly capable of an upset title so far this season.

As West Belconnen resurge, the Queanbeyan Blues have looked the best side overall in attack and defence, and given their mounting casualty ward, have arguable performed the best.

Utility Ben Nicoll is looking forward to the second half of the Canberra Raiders Cup competition in a new-look halves pairing with young gun Tom Leddy for at least another two weeks.

The East Queanbeyan venture will look to continue its re-found form, but with regular halves, former Canberra Raider Marc Herbert and Andrew McLean, battling ankle and bicep injuries respectively, Nicoll will partner Leddy in the halves during a period he believes will be good for his men.

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“Forwards Levi Freeman and Michael Cullen are some of the best forwards in the comp, and they’re back now so we need to back that up.”

Leddy has had two starts in the halves already with the Blues, while Nicoll has interchanged there at times, and he believes despite still missing Herbert and McLean the Blues could go on to be a force at the back end of the competition being just one win from the top.

“In our loss to West Belconnen we finished the game with 12 players, so it was really tough,” he said.

“But there’s no excuses now as we’re in a much better spot.”

“Myself and Tom Leddy will give it a good crack. It’ll be great for him to get another start and not come off the bench. He’s a talented young five-eighth.”

RUGBY LEAGUE

RAIDERS GO GREEN FOR

HULK

channel super hero strengths and attributes come game day.

Vaughan said transforming into the Hulk for the Raiders match against the Warriors was a chance for Raiders fans to come along and support the team, and fans are encouraged to Go Green for Hulk.

The heroes of the NRL and the Marvel Universe will interlink in Round 21 with the Canberra Raiders wearing an exclusive Super Hero themed jersey by ISC.

“The jerseys look fantastic and fit in with the Raiders green so we look forward to seeing a big crowd at GIO Stadium to see us in the Hulk jerseys,” Vaughan said. “We’re asking fans to go green for Hulk on the day and come dressed in their best green outfits.”

The Raiders will join the Roosters, Dragons, Cowboys and Sea Eagles as five clubs wearing the specially designed ISC Marvel Super Hero jerseys in round 21.

ISC CEO, Brett Corrick, says “Partnering with Marvel and adopting its universally recognised characters for this unique program demonstrates, once again, ISC’s commitment to innovation in licensed sports apparel. We are delighted with the outcome and look forward to developing this partnership.”

We’ll see the Marvel Super Hero and NRL Sporting attributes of Power, Leadership, Instinct, Loyalty and Strategy align as the Canberra Raiders turn into the Hulk, Sydney Roosters don Captain America jerseys, St George Illawarra Dragons with Iron Man, North Queensland Cowboys with Thor and the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles with Wolverine.

Raiders Paul Vaughan, Rooster’s Anthony Minichiello, Dragon’s Gareth Widdop, Cowboy’s Ashton Sims and Sea Eagles Kieran Foran have joined forces to promote the round with a series of vignettes that reveal how the rugby league stars

The games played in early August, coined the Super Hero Round, will kick off on Friday, 1 August.

On Saturday, 2 August, the Sydney Roosters play the St George Illawarra Dragons setting up an intriguing rivalry between Captain America and Iron Man, a key theme rumoured to explode in the highly anticipated Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron next April.

This unique series of games will also feature a number of marvellous game day events, including

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character appearances, Marvel activities and half time entertainment.

The Walt Disney Company Australia Chief Marketing Office, Kylie Watson-Wheeler, says Marvel Super Heroes are some of the most loved and recognisable in the world like the players and clubs of the NRL in Australia. This program is such an exciting, innovative collaboration aligning Marvel character attributes with iconic NRL clubs and players.

The Raiders ISC Marvel Super Hero Hulk jersey is available for fans to purchase from jerseys.com.au

RUGBY LEAGUE

should the nrl make its competition

by ryan o’connell

an even playing ground?

I’ve always been extremely impressed with the way the AFL runs its competition. Not just the level of professionalism, but the way the AFL has its eyes firmly set on the future. The organisation has a vision and a blueprint for the game, and adheres to it.

Though some of the decisions the AFL has made over the years haven’t always been popular, they’ve been made for the greater good of the code. Moving away from suburban grounds, priority draft picks for expansion teams, cost-ofliving allowances, and a number of other tactics, were all designed to help grow the game across the country, sometimes artificially.

This is just one example of the AFL creating a level playing field by doing the exact opposite.

At present, all NRL clubs are more or less treated equally, yet the reality is that the circumstances that different teams face are not equal at all.

There is no better example than the Raiders.

It is that last point that I want to dwell on, because it’s the unashamed way that the AFL creates a level playing field - ironically by not having a level playing field – that I think the NRL could perhaps learn from.

Over the last couple of months, Canberra have negotiated with James Tedesco, Kevin Proctor, Michael Ennis and Josh Mansour, yet sadly missed out on signing all of them. This is despite the fact that Tedesco actually signed a contract with the Raiders, but that’s a rant for another day.

Greater Western Sydney and Gold Coast Suns have both enjoyed benefits that other AFL clubs do not receive, simply because they’re expansion teams and the AFL therefore ‘props’ them up a little in their infancy.

There were more than enough whispers to indicate that part of the reason said players ended up knocking the Raiders back is because they didn’t want to live in the Nation’s Capital. If that’s true, it highlights an issue Canberra has with recruiting

talent, and therefore the disadvantage they’re at versus other clubs that may be more appealing destinations for players off contract.

Sydney clubs can not only offer warmer weather, sunny beaches and more nightclubs than Canberra, but as the financial hub of the country, also more access to sponsors and other opportunities for players.

Which means the Raiders may have to pay ‘overs’ for a player in order to attract them to the club.

That’s not a level playing field. Nor is it a recipe for success on the field.

Combine those recruiting struggles with the level of talent that Canberra has lost over the years, including Todd Carney, Blake Ferguson, Josh Dugan and the soon-to-departed Anthony Milford, and you start to understand why Raiders fans feel a little hard done by.

The intent here is not to pick on Canberra, but merely to illustrate a point that not all clubs are equal. It therefore seems silly to treat them all as equal.

Bearing that it mind, should the NRL be making different allowances for different teams?

There is no doubt that this question opens up Pandora’s Box. How, for example, do you make allowances for geographical locations that players may not want to relocate to? That type of adjudication becomes very subjective and open to interpretation.

Sydney clubs could make a strong case – and have before – that the expense of living in Sydney is high, and should therefore be calculated into player salaries. In other words, the clubs would love to a cost-of-living allowance when attempting to sign players.

Having said that, the reason Sydney is so expensive is because people want to live there. That’s a recruitment tool all in itself, and needs to be factored in.

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Brisbane, meanwhile, have the advantage of being the only team in town. Should that advantage be nullified somehow to make it fair for all other clubs?

That would seem harsh on Brisbane, for mine.

There is no doubt that each club faces it’s own disadvantages, but some teams have more than others. Therefore, the notion that the NRL should considered allowances for some teams definitely has merit.

However, the implementation of any sort of system will need to be well thought out, because it’s an extremely complex and layered topic.

It will also be enormously controversial. Make no mistake; the NRL will cop plenty of heat if it decides to introduce allowances for some clubs.

Yet if the over-arching goal is to grow the game across the country, some hard and unpopular decisions may need to be made.

15

RUGBY UNION

STATE OF PLAY:

wallabies make french toast of june series

by brett mckay

The Wallabies have started their 2014 International season in style, with a cleansweep of the three-Test series against France last month.

In a properly up-and-down series, the Wallabies scored seven tries to two in the opening 50–23 romp in Brisbane, and the series was wrapped up a week later in Melbourne, where a tryless but willing contest saw the Brumbies hold out Les Bleus 6–0.

The final Test was played in front of a record rugby crowd at Allianz Stadium in Sydney of 43,188, where the Wallabies again ran in the five-pointers, winning 39–13 in the beautiful afternoon sunshine.

The series clean-sweep now extends the Wallabies’ run since the Spring Tour last year to seven consecutive wins, something not achieved since Australia last held the Rugby World Cup almost 15 years ago.

Of course, this all sets the Wallabies up for the ultimate measuring stick for Australian rugby, where a win in the first Bledisloe Cup fixture in Sydney on August 16 would also halt the All Blacks’ own run at history.

A stifling breakdown presence – one consistency throughout the French series – produced front-foot ball for the ball for the 80 minutes and allowed the Wallabies backs to create multiple opportunities to crack Les Bleus’ defensive line.

Though the execution got a little wayward at times, the intent remained.

New Zealand’s 3-0 sweep of England in June pushed their current streak out to 17 straight wins, equalling that of South Africa in 1997/1998, and the All Blacks themselves in the late 1960s.

A win in the first Bledisloe Test would give them the record of the most consecutive wins by a top-tier rugby nation. Cyprus, of all rugby countries, holds the overall record, where their current run of 23 consecutive wins spans almost six years.

And this is perhaps the biggest development for the Wallabies under McKenzie. If the criticism of the Deans tenure was that at times they didn’t look to play a lot of rugby, particularly the period after the 2011 Rugby World Cup, McKenzie’s Wallabies are running out with a gameplan to compliment the players selected, and vice versa; McKenzie is also clearly picking players to suit the way he wants the Wallabies to play.

Whether the Wallabies’ June form can transfer into Bledisloe and Rugby Championship success remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure, they will go into the four-way tournament with New Zealand, South Africa, and Argentina high on confidence after accounting for the French in style.

It’s obvious that he wants his outside backs to be big, strong ball-carriers, who want to run the ball back into space at a given opportunity. The Wallabies really only kicked out of their own 22 during the June series, otherwise the ball was tucked under the arm or at the very least contested with high midfield kicks.

Despite the tryless Second Test in Melbourne, the Wallabies are clearly focussed on playing with ball in hand, and for the most part, they achieved this across the series. Though the First Test in Brisbane netted more tries, the final Test in Sydney was probably the most complete performance.

And this is playing to the strengths of the likes of Israel Folau, Nick Cummins, Adam AshleyCooper, Tevita Kuridrani, and even Pat McCabe and Rob Horne. All of them are more than capable defenders, too.

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The 9-10-12 combination of Nic White, Bernard Foley, and Matt Toomua is also beginning to benefit from more time together on the field.

McKenzie likes the option of twin playmakers, but he utilises them differently to the Brumbies, where Toomua plays at 10.

Where the Brumbies look to go forward first, before playing wider, the Wallabies with Foley or Quade Cooper at 10 are looking to play wide first, and then go forward through Toomua and inside or outside runners off him.

It’s not unlike how the All Blacks make their midfield metres, where inside centre Ma’a Nonu is their focal point of go-forward.

Of course, it all counts for nothing if the forwards aren’t laying the platform, and the Wallabies certainly looked better with Wycliff Palu at No.8. Giant young Waratahs lock, Will Skelton, enjoyed a debut to remember in Sydney, and he already looks like a long-term Wallaby.

Undoubtedly, the future looks very, very bright for the Wallabies. But they are about to face the toughest, blackest test in world rugby. French toast was made in June, but all eyes are now on the Bledisloe.

RUGBY UNION

super rugby finals Grand Final replay kicks off

The Brumbies have overcome a horror injury toll coming out of the Wallabies’ three Tests against France and to other non-Test players, as well as a mid-season slump, to secure a home Super Rugby Qualifying Final.

A win over last year’s champions, the Chiefs, would set up a likely Semi Final clash in Sydney with arch-rivals, the Waratahs.

After a thumping at the hands of the Waratahs on the resumption of Super Rugby, coupled with a penultimate round bye, the Brumbies’ final home game of the season against the Western Force on July 11 would determine whether they play finals football in 2014.

They won the final home game in style, running in seven tries to win 47-25 on a chilly night out at GIO Stadium. Flyhalf Matt Toomua scored three tries, the club’s first treble since Mark Gerrard ran in three in the 2004 Final triumph over the Crusaders.

The final positions of the top six teams weren’t confirmed until the final game of the season.

The top six finished as follows: the Waratahs, Crusaders, and Sharks the three conference winners, with the Brumbies, Chiefs, and Highlanders claiming the final wildcard spots.

The Finals Series will start in Canberra as mentioned, and later that same night, or early Sunday morning for bleary New Zealand and Australian eyes, the third-placed Sharks host the sixth-placed Highlanders in Durban.

First and second overall, the Waratahs and Crusaders, respectively, will have the first week of the finals off.

As recently as a fortnight ago, the Brumbies and Chiefs facing off in a playoff seemed a highly unlikely scenario. While the Brumbies were hanging onto sixth spot by a fingernail, the Chiefs’ loss to the Highlanders had everyone thinking the Chiefs were long odds to qualify at all. It’s taken a big lift in form from both sides to secure a wildcard spot each, so there is a nice synergy in them meeting in the first week.

Both teams come into the match having claimed their opponent’s scalp in the last year, and now with some impressive pre-final momentum.

There’s no better time for another face-off for last season’s Finalists.

Just as the Brumbies and Chiefs faced off in Round 11 this year, so too did the Highlanders

meet their Qualifying Final opponent in that same round. In fact they did better than just meet them, they became the first team to beat the Sharks at Kings Park in Durban this season, and in fact ended an eight-game winning streak the Sharks were on, stretching back to June last year.

And they showed against the Force that there is still room for a kicking game amongst pure attack.

“We still kicked 27 or 29 times for the match, but no-one cares about that when you score seven tries,” Director of Rugby Laurie Fisher said post-match.

So the Highlanders certainly know the Sharks can be beaten at home. Whether they’ve got another performance like that in them this season remains to be seen; they’ve lost significant form and momentum over the last few weeks.

So kick as needed, but otherwise, just let the ball sing boys.

For the Brumbies though, the Force win was a happy return to the running game, one that gives them plenty of confidence as an attacking side with major firepower, and one that does make them eminently more watchable. With the likes of Toomua, and Christian Lealiifano, and flying wingers Joe Tomane and Henry Speight, it seemed shame that the tem did resort to a territory game mid-season.

Skipper Ben Mowen’s looming departure to French club Montpellier has been known for some time, and it emerged after the Waratahs loss to NSW in Round 17 that Fisher will also depart the club at season’s end, to take up the Head Coach position at rebuilding English club Gloucester.

A number of other players are departing, too, including comeback king Clyde Rathbone, and mid-season recruit, Tom McVerry.

A big Qualifying Final win in front of a big home crowd would be the perfect send-off for some wonderful Brumbies names.

MEnSLInK

BETTER THAn WInnInG:

lessons learned on an olympic journey i FirST cAme AcroSS beN GAThercoLe AT A meNSLiNk SiLeNce iS deAdLY SeSSioN LAST YeAr. he TALked To me AboUT hiS book “beTTer ThAN wiNNiNG” which deScribeS hiS coAchiNG ANd reLATioNShip wiTh Two-Time oLYmpiAN TriAThLeTe SimoN ThompSoN. AN iNTriGUiNG TiTLe, boTh beN ANd SimoN Spoke To me AboUT Their JoUrNeY For pLAY mAGAziNe. At Menslink, we believe everything is possible.

Too often we see sportspeople shattered when their one and only dream doesn’t come off. If you don’t believe me, just ask a Queenslander how they felt on the 18th of June this year.

important is working to a goal and being focused – not just the medal itself. In any elite sport, you’ll lose a lot more than you win. You’ve got to get the occasional victory to keep up your motivation, but the journey is what’s important.”

sense of fair play, loyalty, mateship, pride in yourself, your team and your country can and need to be displayed daily and from the heart.

They can’t be switched on and off – they are at the core and they are noticed.

It turns out Ben and Simon also believe everything is possible – in fact, their Olympic Gold Medal dream didn’t come off but the lessons they learned on the journey have really set them both up for very fulfilling lives and careers post-triathlons.

For them, the journey was better than winning.

Talking about missing out on gold – not once but three times – Simon tells me that “learning from failure is one of the most valuable lessons you can learn. It is uncomfortable – very uncomfortable – but you need to learn to accept that.” Great lessons for life in general and probably one of the reasons why Simon has gone onto even bigger and better things after professional sport: he’s now international sports marketing manager at a major cycle company.

At Menslink, our staff, mentors and even our broader community try to live and promote these values amongst our young guys every day.

They’re values that we believe set up young guys for life – whether they want to be sportspeople, public servants, white collar workers or blue collar workers. They’re values that make everything possible.

The thing that impressed me about both Ben and Simon was their balanced approach to life.

As Ben told me “you’re never going to be at the top of the tree forever.” Despite a drive and a focus on the goal of winning, professional athletes need to have something else in their kit bag: life skills, the ability to handle setbacks without demoralisation, teamwork, empathy. Simon backs that up by telling me that “the friendship and support of the [team and coach] relationship are more important than a single medal. It’s also what you learn about yourself and your values that are really important.”

In the 2006 Commonwealth Games, Simon displayed an amazing degree of teamwork and sportsmanship, deliberately sacrificing his own chance of a medal to support his teammates winning gold and bronze. He says “what’s

His advice to young up-and-coming sportspeople is to “always behave like someone’s watching.

Who you are and how you treat people is noticed more than what you achieve on the field and lasts longer.” His coach Ben is even more direct: “Some [sports] stars are rewarded for a get out of my way approach, but you really can’t live like that.

It may win a few medals in the short term but will ultimately let you down. Big time.”

Ben Gathercole’s book Better than Winning describes the lessons he and Simon learned on their Olympic journey. His final lesson is that core values like honesty, passion, drive, commitment,

18

You can order Ben’s book at bengathercole.com.au

Menslink has been supporting young guys for over ten years through our free counselling, volunteer mentoring and schools’ programs. In that time we’ve helped thousands of young men get through tough or lonely times and develop into responsible, productive and contributing adults. More info at menslink.org.au

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by antony perry @ antonyperry

Duke’s road to glasgo w

oFTeN iN SporT wheN YoU work hArd AT SomeThiNG YoU become Good AT iT; ANd wheN YoU become Good AT iT ANd YoU coNTiNUe To work hArd YoU Are oFTeN rewArded For YoUr eFForTS. TeSTAmeNT To ThiS iS The SUcceSS oF cANberrA-borN AThLeTe dUke didier ANd hiS JoUrNeY To The Upper reAcheS oF The SporT oF JUdo. Didier, who has been involved in judo since he was nine years old, will make his Commonwealth Games debut for Australia in Glasgow, Scotland later this month. There, he will fight in the under100-kilogram division. “It’s a mixture of happiness and relief,” Didier says of his qualification for the Games.

“Qualifying for the Commonwealth Games in judo is a very long process because you’ve got to meet a few different requirements. But when I set my sights on competing, I knew it was going to be long and there’s no better feeling than knowing I’ve got there.”

Didier is currently ranked No.1 in Australia in the under-100-kilogram division, and No.35 in the world. Based on those statistics, the idea that he was genetically predisposed to fight on a mat seems, on the surface, self-evident. You only have to look at the way Didier performs throws, takedowns and submission manoeuvres to realise that talent was encoded in his DNA. But, as is often the case with being an athlete at the top of any given sport, the 25-year-old’s achievements haven’t come without sacrifice.

Didier’s current rankings – in Australia and the world – are the necessary requirements for him to represent Australia this month in Glasgow and the travel involved in securing them has been rigorous.

“To be number one in Australia means a lot of domestic travel,” he says. “You’re constantly going to different competitions around the country.

A lot of international travel is involved as well in order to secure the required world ranking. It was just a very long process.”

“iT’S TAkeN A ToLL oN me, bUT i coULdN’T be hAppier…”

Image: Ben Houston

The road to Glasgow has taken Didier to Samoa, Bosnia, Hungary, New Zealand, Brazil and Korea in the last 12 months alone. He will attend training camps in Spain and England in the coming weeks before competing in the Commonwealth Games from July 28.

From the outside looking in, the travel may seem like a small price to pay for the position within the sport Didier is now in. But unlike sports such as football and rugby union, judo doesn’t enjoy as warm of a relationship with commercialism as its mainstream counterparts. Many judokas therefore hold an occupation outside of the sport.

Didier is no exception. The former Marist College product works in marketing as well as working as a nightclub bouncer on the weekends. “Work is the biggest difficulty,” Didier explains. “I take a lot of leave without pay and I work two jobs to make up for it.

“Big parts of your life are impacted on because you’re going away so much. By no means are they holidays either. Taking those two to three weeks every time is a sacrifice. You don’t see friends or family and I’m still single. These are things you take into account and you realise they’re going to happen, but it’s still difficult.”

But Didier, who was in the shadow squad for the 2012 London Olympic Games, insists his qualification for this year’s Commonwealth Games makes the hard work and the sacrifices he’s made all worth it. “It’s taken a toll on me, but I couldn’t be happier now that all the hard work has paid off and it’s all worthwhile,” he says.

23

“You don’t want to be making sacrifices if you’re not getting the end result and for so many people that happens. A lot of people miss out on achieving what they want to, but luckily for me, it’s all paid off and I’m going to the Commonwealth Games.”

In Glasgow, Didier will be taking on the best competitors that the Commonwealth nations have to offer in a bid to claim the ultimate prize – a gold medal and the coveted title of Commonwealth Games champion. But he remains unfazed by the size of the challenge that lies ahead. “I won’t be getting overwhelmed by the competition in Glasgow because of the experience I have,” Didier says. “It’s quite a prestigious event, however I’m really looking to take my opportunity and earn a medal.”

Having represented Australia previously in other tournaments, the experience Didier speaks of having is extensive. He will be served well by it, too.

“I think my prior experience representing Australia will be hugely beneficial when I get on to the mat in Glasgow,” he says.

“There are competitions overseas that are a lot stronger than the ones in Australia and I’ve fought in them, so I’m really looking forward to being able to draw on the experience that I’ve gained over the years.”

Didier’s journey to Glasgow is almost complete and he will soon be reaping the rewards of his hard work and determination. The road to his destination has had its ups and downs and twists and turns along the way, but as Duke Didier knows all too well: “Nothing worth having comes easily”.

cYcLInG

MEET cAnBERRA’S

commonwealth games cYcLISTS

LAST moNTh cYcLiNG AUSTrALiA ANNoUNced Their 41 rider TeAm To compeTe AT The 2014 commoNweALTh GAmeS iN GLASGow, ANd iT iNcLUded A heALThY coNTiNGeNT oF AThLeTeS From The NATioNS cApiTAL.

Nine Canberra cyclists were selected in the Australian Cycling team, representing all four cycling disciplines of road, track, mountain bike and Para-cycling.

We’ve put together a who’s who of Canberra cyclists flying the flag at the Games, which begin in Scotland on Thursday, July 24.

nathan hart @ nathanhart 4

Pictured next page

Down Under. Haas finished fourth and fifth over all at the Tours respectively.

The 25-year-old made a name for himself in 2011 following a dominant domestic season resulting in winning the overall National Road Series.

Haas will join a strong seven-man road race team on August 3.

gracie elvin @ gracieelvin

Hart will travel to Scotland as the youngest sprinter in the track program, which runs from July 24-27 at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome.

nathan haas

@ nathanpeterhaas Haas will represent Australia for the first time in Glasgow, with the Garmin-Sharp rider looking to impress on the windy plains of Scotland.

Haas kicked off 2014 with a bang, earning a stage victory at the Jayco Herald Sun Tour and a podium appearance in stage three of the UCI Santos Tour

@ chloe _ hosking

In 2010, Chloe Hosking won a bronze medal in the Commonwealth Games road race behind winner and compatriot Rochelle Gilmore. Hosking will don the number two jersey at the Games behind English powerhouse Elizabeth Armistead and she will work hard to be on top of the podium after her 2010 effort.

The Canberra rider has started this year magnificently by winning the EPZ Omloop van Borsele in the Netherlands and finishing third overall in the Ladies Tour of Qatar.

21-year-old Nathan Hart will debut at #Glasgow2014, having won silver in the individual sprint at the 2014 national championships as well as bronze in the team sprint at the Oceania Championships.

At his first international event, Hart won a bronze medal in the team sprint at the 2013 Track World Cup in Mexico, beginning his purple-patch of form.

chloe hosking

rebecca henderson @ bec _ henderson Image: Cycling Australia – John Veage

Canberra’s Gracie Elvin will make her Commonwealth Games debut at #Glasgow2014 in the women’s road team.

In 2013, Elvin established herself as one of Australia’s leading riders on the road, following a breakthrough 2013 season, which included winning the Road National Championships and a host of international podium appearances.

Elvin began 2014 by becoming the first woman in 20 years to defend the national road title and will be one to watch in the women’s road race on Sunday August 3.

24

Pictured next page

London Olympian Rebecca Henderson will headline the female contingent of the #Glasgow2014 Mountain Bike team.

After finishing on top of the UCI U23 World Cup rankings in 2013, the XCO national champion recorded her highest ever elite world cup result in Cairns in April with 10th place.

Henderson is currently ranked third in the commonwealth and will go head-to-head with Trek Factory Racing teammate Emily Batty (Canada, rank #2) and Luna Pro Team’s Catharine Pendrel (Canada, rank #3).

The women’s cross country final will be held at the Cathkin MTB Trails Park on Tuesday July 29.

andrew blair @ andydblair

A veteran on the Australian mountain biking scene, Andy Blair will make his debut at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Blair is no stranger to donning the green and gold, having represented Australia at multiple world championships - his first in 1996 as a junior in Cairns.

The reigning XCM national champion had a stellar performance returning to Cairns, finishing inside the top 30 at the recent UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in April.

Andy will be in action at the Cathkin MTB Trails Park on Tuesday July 29.

paul kennedy & thomas clarke @ paulekonline

Image: Cycling Australia – John Veage

36-year-old Para-cyclist Paul Kennedy will debut at #Glasgow2014 after moving to the sport a few years ago following a successful career representing Australia in Goalball.

2014 is the maiden year Tandem track cycling will feature at the Commonwealth Games, with ACT pilot Thomas Clarke hoping to steer the pair to victory in Scotland.

Kennedy and Clarke collected bronze in the 1km time trial and fourth place in the tandem sprint at the 2014 Para-cycling world championships in Mexico.

brandie o’connor @ brandie 24121973

Brandie O’Connor will head to the Games to compete in the Para-cycling tandem sprint and time trial.

O’Connor began cycling at 34 years of age and in 2013, won three national titles on the road and track.

In 2014, O’Connor earned a silver medal in both the tandem sprint and tandem time trial at the Para-cycling track world championships held in Mexico.

“hArT wiLL TrAveL To ScoTLANd AS The YoUNGeST SpriNTer iN The TrAck proGrAm…” 25

This image: Cycling Australia – John Veage Full-page image: Cycling Australia - Tim Bardsley-Smith

ACTAS

ACT ACADEMY OF SPORT The ACT Academy of sport (ACTAS) has again proven it on the right track when it comes to supporting Canberra’s elite athletes.

This month 21 athletes that have received training or support from ACTAS will be making the trip over to Glasgow for the XX Commonwealth Games. The following athletes have all been a part of the ACTAS program: Athletics Melissa Breen, Martin Dent, Lauren Wells, Angela Ballard, Zoe Buckman and Richard Nicholson. Cycling Gracie Elvin, Nathan Haas, Nathan Hart, Brandie O’Connor, Thomas Clarke, Paul Kennedy, Chloe Hosking and Rebecca Henderson. Hockey Anna Flanagan, Edwina Bone and Andrew Charter. Judo Sara Collins and Duke Didier. Swimming Joshua Alford. Weightlifting Kylie Lindbeck.

ACTAS was formed in 1989 as the high performance arm of Sport and Recreation Services (SRS). Since then ACTAS has assisted over 1,900 high performance ACT athletes from a wide variety of sports in reaching their potential.

This includes 61 Olympic representatives and 29 Paralympians who have achieved a total of 45 medals.

ACTAS is an endorsed Official Olympic and Paralympic Training Centre and a key part of the National Elite Sports Council (NESC). Membership of NESC comprises the eight Australian state and territory institutes and academies of sport, the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), as well as observer representatives from the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC), Australian Paralympic Committee (APC) and the Australian Commonwealth Games Association (ACGA).

The mission of ACTAS is to support the development of ACTAS athletes and enable them to gain national team selection for their sport, through a commitment to the long term athlete development, health and wellbeing.

ACTAS aims to assist local and nationally identified athletes in gaining national team selection through embracing an athletic performance development model which allows athletes to mature as individuals through a competency based system.

For more information on ACTAS head to economicdevelopment.act.gov.au/sport_ and_recreation/actas Twitter: @theACTAS Facebook: ACT Academy of Sport

26

MOUNTAIN BIKING

CANBERRA KIDS PICKED TO RIDE AT WORLD CHAMPS Nineteen-year old Canberra mountain bike prodigies Matthew McCorkell and Ben Dengate have been selected in the Australian squad to ride in the Norwegian world championships.

The tournament will take place between September 2 and September 7 in the small town of Hafjell.

The lads’ selections caps off what has been a great year for cycling as a whole in Canberra, with nine riders from the region making a part of a 41-strong Australian Commonwealth Games squad travelling to Glasgow this month.

But for McCorkell and Dengate, while they are not quite at Commonwealth Games standard just yet, their selections to race in their first ever world championships caps off a life time effort.

While the Olympic and Commonwealth Games focus more specifically on cross-country mountain biking, the two lads race in the downhill format, and this is what they will do in Norway.

The two have basically grown up together.

As best mates, they compete together, train together, but most importantly take inspiration from one another while always trying, in a good spirit, to out-do each other at the same time.

Dengate has competed in five national championships already in his eighth year of racing, and has regularly finished in the top 10.

McCorkell has been racing for five years now, but since taking out the New South Wales under 15 state championship, has also appeared in the national top 10 ever since.

@ maticjm

by joshua matic

McCorkell’s father Phillip said it was a wonderful achievement for both boys to be making their first ever world championship event.

“Competing at all these levels means about 20 races per year which involves quite a lot of travel,” said Phillip McCorkell.

“Both are under the coaching eye of local cycling coach Peter Frew and PCYC strength and conditioning coach Dave Signor, and are two guys the boys can thank for their success.”

Next stop is a trip to the Mt St Ann World Cup in Quebec and the Windham World Cup in USA in late July lead by another Canberra local, Australian Downhill Coach Jared Rando. This trip will serve as a development opportunity leading into the World Championships in Norway in early September.

NETBALL

2014 season launch Canberra Darters

The Canberra Darters launched their 2014 Australian Netball League (ANL) season this month at the National Arboretum in Canberra.

The Darters will kick start their ANL season with four tough away games against the Tasmania Spirit (July 5) and the Queensland Fusion (July 6) in Launceston.

They then head on the road again in round two where they meet the NSW Waratahs (July 12) and NSW Blues (July 13) in Sydney.

Canberra fans will get their chance to see the Darters in action at the AIS Arena on Friday, August 1 when they meet the Victoria Flames, twenty four hours later against the Territory Storm (Saturday, August 2) and then on Sunday, August 3 where they will take on defending champions the Victoria Fury.

The weekend will feature seven ANL games along with the annual Minister’s Invitational team versus Media clash, which will be played on Saturday, August 2.

The Darters 2014 squad features a host of young local players all eager to test themselves against the best young talent in Australia.

Darters Coach Melinda Clarke said the ANL was an important domestic competition for ACT netballers.

“To have the opportunity to play against high quality players in a leading domestic competition is a great foundation for our young players to build their senior netball careers on,” Clarke said.

“Every year is challenging given the quality of opposition we face but that’s what drives us to test ourselves against the best.”

“It’s absolutely world class, a number of players who are playing at the ANL level have either been in an ANZ franchise, have been a national underage

representative and have been playing at this level for significant time. It is a really high standard of competition.”

“We have a tough start to the season with four games on the road before returning home where we hope our home fans will again turn out in large numbers and support the girls.”

“We can assure our supporters that every time we take the court we will be giving it everything we’ve got.”

Netball ACT General Manager, Adam Horner, said the Darters really appreciated the support they receive from the Canberra community.

“The Canberra support of the Darters is the best of any team in the Australian Netball League with our attendances the highest of any team in the league,” Horner said.

“The fans get into the spirit wearing pink and even opposition players say how they love playing

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

in Canberra given the support of netball in the Nation’s Capital.”

It was a sentiment echoed by new captain Keely Rodrigo “It’s always good to put a good game on for the home supporters, especially because we get so much support from the littlies in our district so it’s important to play well and get a win in front of our home crowd.”

Coach Melinda Clarke also mentioned the importance of the home games to the players.

“All our games are important but playing at home is particularly special, we have great crowds here in Canberra and the opportunity for the girls to play at that level in front of friends and family is a real privilege and they really appreciate the support they get from the community.”

For a chance to see some world class netball in the capital get your tickets early through Ticketek and get behind the Canberra Darters in 2014.

nETBALL

call to arms dARTERS’ pInK ARMY

The cANberrA dArTerS hAve cALLed oN FANS To pUrchASe Their TickeTS eArLY, weAr piNk ANd FiLL The AiS AreNA AS TheY prepAre To TAke oN AUSTrALiA’S riSiNG STArS iN The 2014 AUSTrALiAN NeTbALL LeAGUe (ANL).

Canberra fans will get their chance to see the Darters in action on Friday, August 1 when they meet the Victoria Flames, then against the Territory Storm (Saturday, August 2) and finally on Sunday, August 3 where they will take on defending champions the Victoria Fury.

The weekend will feature seven ANL games along with the annual Minister’s Invitational team versus Media celebrity clash, which will be played on Saturday, August 2.

The Darters 2014 squad features a host of young local players all eager to test themselves against the best young talent in Australia.

Darters Coach Melinda Clarke said the ANL was an important domestic competition for ACT netballers.

“To have the opportunity to play against high quality players in a leading domestic competition is a great foundation for our young players to build their senior netball careers on,” Clarke said.

cANberrA dArTerS home GAmeS deTAiLS: (ALL GAMES AT AIS ARENA)

FRI 1 AUGUST Darters v Victoria Flames (6.30PM) SAT 2 AUGUST Victoria Fury v Tasmania Spirit (3.00PM) QLD Fusion v NSW Blues (5.00PM)

“Every year is challenging given the quality of opposition we face but that’s what drives us to test ourselves against the best.”

MINISTER’S SEVEN v ACT MEDIA CELEBRITY MATCH (6.30PM)

“The players really appreciate the support we receive from the Canberra community and we hope they will again get behind the Darters in our three home games in August.”

SUN 3 AUGUST Tasmania Spirit v Queensland Fusion (10.00AM)

“We can assure our supporters that every time we take the court we will be giving it everything we’ve got.”

Left to right: Georgia Clayden, Michaley Phokos, Nardia Macdonal, Mardi Aplin, Natalie Jones, Lisa Kaye, Alison Miller, Michelle Massarany, Keely Rodrigo, Sophie Immonen, Claudia Barton, Leigh Kalsbeek, Peta Rogers, Rebecca Collis and Alix McDermott (bottom lef).

29 Proudly Supported By

Darters v Territory Storm (7.30PM)

Territory Storm v NSW Blues (12.00PM) Darters v Victoria Fury (4.00PM)

GIO STAdIUM

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Why not have both?

Club Stadium at GIO Stadium Canberra offers you the unique opportunity to enjoy all the trappings of a private suite with all the excitement of game day in the Capital.

It is a place where business meets pleasure, where quality hospitality allows you mingle with ease, and the opportunity to enjoy the game in a relaxed atmosphere of like minded sports fans.

From the private bar to the spectacular view of the action, Club Stadium has got your corporate entertaining covered.

GIO Stadium has tailored some great packages for their Club Stadium patrons that allow you to entertain at the highest levels without the oftenprohibitive costs.

One of the major advantages of the Club Stadium membership is the fact they are for BOTH the Raiders and Brumbies games. No more office

votes or working out which code better suits your corporate goals and this also means double the corporate entertaining opportunities (20 NRL and Super Rugby matches) plus the chance to appeal to a wider range of clients.

Your Club Stadium membership includes fantastic catering, match day programs, branded balcony seating, VIP parking, entry to all Raiders and Brumbies games (with options for other special games in the year) and access to a private lounge & bar with big screen TV’s to entertain in an air-conditioned/heated relaxed atmosphere.

For a more comprehensive list of inclusions head to giostadiumcanberra.com.au.

Membership can be purchased on an annual or event-by-event basis.

Added options Expand your brand by becoming a GIO Stadium signage sponsor. What better way to increase

30

the impact of your corporate entertaining than clients looking out and seeing your brand on the stadium signage. With some great sites available these options will make your business stand out.

Other benefits include discounted function room hire and links on the GIO Stadium website, putting you in great company and aligning your brand with the big hitters in Canberra, National and International business.

Club Stadium membership is a unique chance to strengthen or engage business relationships while enjoying Canberra’s best sport in style.

Membership means the best of both worlds with free-flowing movement from the comforts of indoor entertaining to the electric atmosphere on the private Club Stadium balcony.

For more details contact Joanest To on (02) 6256 6711 or email j.to@tveact.com.au giostadiumcanberra.com.au

ACTEWAGL JULY/AUGUST EVENTS CALENDAR Week 1: 14-20 JULY Thursday 17th

Saturday 19th

Sunday 20th

Week 3: 28 JULY - 3 AUGUST

WPL

ACTAS V ANU 6.00pm Hawker

NPL

Woden Valley V Canberra FC 3.00pm Deakin Oval

CRC

Tugg Bushrangers V Belconnen UTD 3.00pm Greenway

JID

Uni-Norths V Easts 3.05pm ANU Wests V QBN Whites 3.05pm Jamison Oval Royals V Gungahlin 3.05pm Phillip Oval

NEAFL

Belconnen V Eastlake 12.00pm Kippax Oval

AHIL

CBR Brave V Adrenaline 5.30pm Phillip Rink

WPL

ANU V Tuggeranong UTD 2.00pm ANU Oval Weston Molonglo V Canberra FC 2.00pm ANU ACTAS V Canberra Olympic 2.00pm Kaleen Belconnen UTD V Monaro 2.00pm McKellar

NPL

Canberra City V FFA 3.00pm Gungahlin Cooma SC V Monaro 3.00pm Nijong Oval Canberra Olympic V Tuggeranong UTD 3.00pm O’Connor

CRC

Woden Valley Rams v Gungahlin Bulls 3.00pm Phillip West Belconnen V QBN Blues 3.00pm Raiders Belconnen Goulburn Workers V QBN Roos 3.00pm Workers Arena

Monday 28th

NRL

Raiders V Rabbitohs 7.00pm GIO Stadium

Friday 1st

ANL

Darters V Victoria Flames 6.30pm AIS Arena

NEAFL

Ainslie V Sydney Uni 12.00pm Ray Alan Oval Eastlake V Belconnen 2.00pm StarTrack Oval

JID

PRELIMINARY FINAL 3.05pm Oval TBC

CRC

QBN Roos V Gungahlin Bulls 3.00pm Freeboady Oval Woden Rams V West Belconnen 3.00pm Phillip Oval QBN Blues V Belconnen UTD 3.00pm Seiffert Oval Goulburn Workers V Tugg Bushrangers 3.00pm Workers

AHIL

CBR Brave V North Stars 5.30pm Phillip Rink

ANL

Darters V Territory Storm 7.30pm AIS Arena

NRL

Raiders V Warriors 2.00pm GIO Stadium

NPL

Canberra FC V Belconnen UTD 3.00pm Deakin Cooma V Woden Valley 3.00pm Nijong Oval Canberra Olympic V FFA 3.00pm O’Connor Monaro V Tuggeranong 3.00pm Riverside

WPL

ANU V Weston Molonglo 2.00pm ANU ACTAS V Tuggeranong UTD 2.00pm Kaleen Belconnen UTD V Canberra FC 2.00pm McKellar Canberra Olympic V Monaro Panthers 2.00pm O’Connor

ANL

Darters V Victoria Fury 4.00pm AIS Arena

Saturday 2nd

Sunday 3rd

Week 2: 21-27 JULY

Saturday 26th

NEAFL

QBN Tigers V Eastlake 2.00pm Dairy Farmers Oval

NPL

Tuggeranong United V Cooma 3.00pm Kambah

JID

MAJOR SEMI FINALS 3.05pm Oval TBC

CRC

QBN Roos V Tugg Bushrangers 3.00pm Freebody Oval Gungahlin Bulls V QBN Blues 3.00pm Gungahlin Belconnen UTD V Woden Rams 3.00pm Northbourne

CRC

West Belconnen V Goulburn Workers 3.00pm Raiders Belc

WPL

Weston Molonglo V Canberra Olympic 2.00pm ANU Canberra FC V ANU 2.00pm Deakin Tuggeranong UTD V Belconnen UTD 2.00pm Kambah Monaro Panthers V ACTAS 2.00pm Riverside

NPL

FFA V Canberra FC 3.00pm AIS Grass Field Woden Valley V Canberra Olympic 3.00pm Kaleen Belconnen UTD V Canberra City 3.00pm McKellar

JID

MINOR SEMI FINALS 3.05pm Oval TBC

SEC0414/04

ActewAGL Retail ABN 46 221 314 841.

Sunday 27th

Week 4: 4 -10 AUGUST

Saturday 9th

Sunday 10th

CRC

Tugg Bushrangers V QBN Blues 3.00pm Greenway Oval Gungahlin Bulls V Belconnen UTD 3.00pm Gungahlin Woden Rams V Goulburn Workers 3.00pm Phillip Oval

JID

GRAND FINAL 3.05pm Oval TBC

AHIL

CBR Brave V Mustangs 5.30pm Phillip Rink

CRC

West Belconnen V QBN Roos 3.00pm Raiders Belconnen

AHIL

CBR Brave V Mustangs 5.30pm Phillip Rink

All details correct at time of printing CRC: Canberra Raiders Cup / JID: Jhon I Dent / NPL: National Premier League WPL: Womens Premier League / AIHL: Australian Ice Hockey League

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.

GIVE ME 5 FOR KIDS

ActewAGL supports 2014 ‘Give Me 5 For Kids’ program ActewAGL was once again a community partner for this year’s ‘Give Me 5 For Kids’ program through the month of June.

ActewAGL has joined Southern Cross Ten and Mix 106.3’s ‘Give Me 5 For Kids’ campaign to promote this important cause that benefits the women and children’s ward at the Canberra Hospital.

For almost 20 years, the month of June has been dedicated to raising much needed monies for local community hospitals.

ActewAGL Director Marketing and Corporate Affairs Paul Walshe said “We are committed to supporting the local community through our sponsorship program and this year we are more than happy to contribute $20,000 to this worthy cause.

“ActewAGL was very keen to be involved again this year. We know the money raised goes directly to purchasing much needed equipment and helping treat sick children at the Canberra Hospital.

ActewAGL Director Marketing & Corporate Affairs Paul Walshe with Carrie Graf and David Pocock.

ActewAGL staff also helped answer the phones during the ‘Give Me 5 For Kids’ telethon on Wednesday 25 June at the Southern Cross Ten studios.

“This year as part of our support and fundraising efforts ActewAGL hosted a sausage sizzle in City Walk (outside the ActewAGL Assist store) on Friday 13 June.”

This year’s wish list includes a children’s activity centre and resource packages for Community Health programs along with a temperature controlled still birth bassinet with camera and a Cardio Tocograph (CTG machine) for the Maternity department.

The Mix106.3 26-hour Business Bus dropped

by ActewAGL House and small businesses were invited to make a donation. The business bus travelled from business to business over the 26 hours and broadcasts were made from those businesses for around half an hour.

The ‘Give Me 5 For Kids’ charity is run by Southern Cross Austereo (owner of SCTen and part owner of Canberra FM) throughout every state and territory across Australia with money in each area raised staying local to benefit women’s and children’s hospitals.

ACT

fLY fISHInG

LAke crAckeNbAck reSorT & SpA LAke crAckeNbAck reSorT & SpA LUreS wiTh peTer morSe & mATT TripeT FLY FiShiNG SchooLS. Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa in the New South Wales Snowy Mountains presents an irresistible lure for lovers of angling and holiday recreation with a dedicated weekend of fly-fishing.

The resort’s resident wild brown and rainbow trout are rousing from their winter’s rest and are about to go on the bite, whetting the appetites of outdoor enthusiasts and perfectly timed for the Peter Morse & Matt Tripet Fly Fishing Schools on 3 – 5 October, 2014 and 20 – 22 February, 2015.

Hosted by two of Australia’s finest anglers, Peter Morse and Matt Tripet, novice and experienced caster’s alike can hook into years of professional fly fishing experience with a variety of workshops and seminars that focus on developing and expanding a deeper understanding of fly casting and chasing wild trout with a fly rod in hand.

Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa’s Peter Morse Fly Fishing Weekend Packages start from $455 per person with six people sharing a three bedroom Lake View Apartment and includes two nights accommodation, expert tuition from Peter and Matt throughout the weekend and meals.

ABOUT PETER MORSE An IFFF Master Casting Instructor, Peter has developed an effortless smooth style and specialises in teaching how to usefully apply a wide range of casts, from the very simple to the advanced. Peter is a world leading instructor and will be leading group casting workshops throughout the weekend and guiding how to do it on the water chasing wild trout.

ABOUT MATT TRIPET Matt’s passion for fly fishing is the product of over 20 years of casting fur and feathers at freshwater and saltwater species. These days Matt is Activate Manager and head guide at Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa. He is also an IFFF Certified Casting

Instructor, working towards completing the highly rigorous Masters certification. Matt will be sharing his remarkable knowledge of the local waters, stream craft and insect knowledge, whilst assisting Peter Morse during the casting workshops.

To book or for more information, call 1800 020 524 or visit lakecrackenback.com.au

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Fly Fishing School Weekend Dates 3 - 5 Oct 2014 20 - 22 Feb 2015

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FOOTBALL

Transfer madness: the story so far The northern hemisphere summer is in full swing and that only means one thing in football circles; a couple of months of transfer madness.

Summer is a time when England’s elite clubs flex their financial muscles to secure the services of the world’s best footballers. For what purpose, you ask? Premiership glory, of course, and the eternal delight it brings. Whoever said money can’t buy happiness has never played for, or supported Manchester City…

Here, we take a look at what England’s Champions League clubs have achieved so far this summer – and what may eventuate in the weeks to come.

Manchester City IN: Fernando (Porto), Bacary Sagna (Arsenal) OUT: Costel Pantilimon (Sunderland), Joleon Lescott (West Brom) Gareth Barry (released), Alex Nimely (released) It’s been a relatively quiet summer thus far for the Barclays Premier League champions, with just two signings being made. City has acquired the services of Fernando, who has arrived at the Etihad from Portuguese club Porto. The Brazilian, who was purchased for £12 million, will slip into City’s already impressive midfield and will provide manager Manuel Pellegrini with another option as the club looks to defend its Premier League title and progress further in the Champions League in 2014-15. Joining Fernando in Manchester is former Arsenal man Bacary Sagna, who was picked up on a free transfer. The 31-year-old defender has joined City on a three-year contract after his deal with Arsenal ran out at the end of last season. Expect City to remain active in the market all summer long.

Liverpool IN: Rickie Lambert (Southampton), Emre Can (Bayer Leverkusen), Adam Lallana (Southampton) OUT: Luis Alberto (Malaga) Liverpool’s astonishing rise from obscurity in 2013-14 saw them claim a second place finish in the league and qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 2009-10. But if Liverpool is to be competitive next season in all competitions, Brendan Rodgers, the manager, needs to bring in a host of new players to add some depth to his squad. Rickie Lambert, the striker, and Adam Lallana, the attacking midfielder, have already been signed from Southampton and the pair will strengthen Liverpool’s forward line. Further, a deal has been agreed in principle for Bayer

FOOTBALL

Leverkusen’s Emre Can, who will bolster the Reds’ midfield. But Liverpool, despite its excellent offensive record last season, had its fallibilities at the back exposed far too often and is in desperate need of defensive reinforcements. Expect the club to bring in at least a couple of new defenders before the summer is out.

Chelsea

Tuggeranong draw SOUth Hobart in FFA Cup

IN: Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona), Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid) OUT: David Luiz (Paris Saint-Germain), Samuel Eto’o (released) Ashley Cole (released), Frank Lampard (released), Mark Schwarzer (released), Henrique Hilario (released), Sam Hutchinson (released) Chelsea have flexed the financial muscle it’s known for and has completed the signings of Cesc Fabregas (£30 million) and Diego Costa (£32 deal).

In what could prove to be two of the signings of the summer, the pair’s arrival at Stamford Bridge perhaps signals manager Jose Mourinho’s intent to have his side playing more attacking football next season in a bid to return the Blues to the summit of English and European football. Don’t expect Chelsea to close the books there, though.

It’s safe to assume Mourinho and owner Roman Abramovich have plans to spend big on the world’s best players: it’s what we’ve come to expect from the west London club.

Arsenal IN: None OUT: Bacary Sagna (Manchester City), Lukasz Fabianski (Swansea), Nicklas Bendtner (released), Park Chu-young (released), Chuks Aneke (released), Daniel Boateng (released) Arsenal qualified for next season’s Champions League by the skin of its teeth last season and in order to avoid a similar struggle in 2014-15, manager Arsene Wenger needs to act on the recruitment front. But the Frenchman is yet to do so, with the only transfer activity so far this summer at the Emirates involving players heading out the exit door. There is talk that the north London club is set to sign a trio of world class players for £54 million. Talk is cheap though; seeing is believing. The trio in question consists of Chilean attacker Alexis Sanchez, French midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin and Ivory Coast right-back Serge Aurier. Wenger has his work cut out for him, but if he is successful in landing all three, what a superb summer spending spree it would be.

Tuggeranong United have been drawn away to South Hobart FC in the first round of the inaugural FFA Cup after the draw was televised live on Fox Sports News.

United may have missed out on the big guns but a trip to Tasmania will certainly test the mettle of Steve Forshaw’s team who were the first non-Hyundai A-League team to qualify for the competition following their 3-2 Federation Cup Final success over Cooma Tigers last season.

South Hobart is the oldest association football club in Tasmania, as well as one of the most successful. They have won the State Championship a record 15 times. Add to this a remarkable 21 Southern titles, 11 knockout Cups, 3 Statewide knockout Cups and 6 Falkinder Cups plus various other trophies and they stand out as Tasmania’s most successful club.

They played their first match on 21 May 1910.

South Hobart won the league for the first time in 1919, and won the next four in a row. Although successful through their existence, they have only recently begun to again win trophies at the highest level. This season South Hobart sit top of the Victory League having won nine of their eleven matches and has a five point cushion over second placed Olympia.

35

“We are absolutely delighted with the prospect of going to Hobart to play,” Tuggeranong United Head Coach Steve Forshaw said. “As well as being an unknown challenge it represents an opportunity to gain experience that we would otherwise be unlikely to get close to. It’s fantastic for Tuggeranong and for local football. We are really looking forward to the challenge and representing the ACT in the FFA Cup.” The match will be played Tuesday 5 August 7:30pm

FFA Cup Round 1 Draw Newcastle Jets v Perth Glory Melbourne City v Sydney FC Wellington Phoenix v Adelaide United Broadmeadow Magic v Brisbane Strikers Sydney United 58 v FNQ FC Heat Parramatta FC v St. Albans Saints Olympic FC v Melbourne Knights Manly United v Sydney Olympic South Hobart v Tuggeranong United Hakoah Sydney City v Palm Beach Sharks South Springvale v South Cardiff Blacktown City v Bentleigh Greens South Coast Wolves v Central Coast Mariners Bayswater City v Melbourne Victory Adelaide City v Western Sydney Wanderers Stirling Lions v Brisbane Roar

CRICKET

Canberra’s Cricket World Cup dress-rehearsal in November Manuka Oval makes a welcome and earlier than expected return to the International cricket calendar over the 2014/2015 summer, with confirmation last month that Michael Clarke’s Australian side will host South Africa in Canberra on Wednesday November 19.

playing surfaces in Australia, and indeed, in world cricket.

The day/night clash will be the third of five One-Day Internationals against the Proteas, which along with three Twenty20 internationals will provide the lead-in to the Australian summer, which includes the four-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy series with India, and culminates with the 2015 Cricket World Cup in February and March 2015.

Cricket Australia CEO, James Sutherland, said at the announcement last month, “This is exciting news for Canberra cricket fans, and another step in affirming Manuka Oval’s credentials as a venue for international cricket. The Centenary of Canberra ODI in February last year was a great success with a sell-out crowd, and I’m sure that November’s match against a strong South Africa will be no different.”

The Manuka Oval fixture was included on the request of Cricket South Africa, who play Ireland in a World Cup pool match in Canberra on March 3, allowing the Proteas a chance to familiarise themselves with what remains one of the biggest

It will be an early highlight in what shapes as a massive summer of cricket for the iconic ground, too, with domestic one- and four-day matches on the agenda this season. The annual Prime Minister’s XI fixture will take place on Wednesday, January 14, with PM Tony Abbott’s selection hosting England again, in a day/night fixture as a lead-in to the tri-series ODIs with Australia and India.

Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister, Andrew Barr, pointed to the string of big ticket items on the Territory’s sporting calendar.

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“This ODI will form a huge summer of sport in Canberra that includes a netball test, Asian Cup soccer and the ICC Cricket World Cup. These events will not only be popular with Canberrans, but they will drive visitation and provide a boost to our tourism industry,” Minister Barr said.

The November clash between Australia and South Africa will be the second ever ODI at Manuka Oval for the national side, and significant upgrades last summer including resurfacing and new stands boosting the ground’s capacity for cricket to 15,000.

Tickets for the Australia v South Africa One-Day International at Manuka Oval will go on sale in early August, via Ticketek.

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IcE HOcKEY

cbr’S brAve cApTAiN by jackson russell

YoU cAN heAr The pride iN mArk rUmmUkAiNeN’S voice AS he TALkS AboUT how FAr New cANberrA AihL Side cbr brAve hAS come iN SUch A ShorT period oF Time.

Rummukainen explained that once he told players that the team was in and what it his plans were it wasn’t too hard to convince them to jump aboard.

“All the players have really brought into what we are trying to create. Everyone at the club has been great. Particularly local boys who have not only gotten behind this team but are giving it everything on the ice. We are a completely new club with a new attitude and its shown in the rink.”

After being told with his Canberra Knights teammates that 6 weeks out from the start of the 2014 season their team was folding. Knights captain Rummukainen and his teammates found themselves left to ponder their next move. Sit out the season? Find a new club?

No. Rummukainen decided that they could start a new Canberra side and get it up and running, ready to go for the start of the 2014 season. A task that looked impossible.

The debuting CBR Brave can be seen at this point in time sitting up in the pointy end of the table at the halfway mark of the season. This is an amazing feat for a side that was formed 6 weeks out from the first game. An even greater feat if you take into account that the Knights ran dead last, last season losing 24 games.

“Most people thought that we were crazy, and that was basically what we were told by the league but after many back and fourth phone conversations with the Australian Ice Hockey Commission’s CEO Alex Lata and a crazy 72 hours of negotiations we were up and running. CBR Brave was born.” Said Rummukainen.

“The support that we have received has been overwhelming, the community has embraced us and the turn outs that we have been getting to our matches has been unbelievable. There is a real positive vibe around our games. It really gets the team going. It’s no coincidence that we are winning games now.”

If you would like to get down to a CBR Brave game, check out their website cbrbrave.com.au for dates and times.

We are confident. We are bold. We are ready.

COERVER Coaching Master Class Series

Alfred Galustian All Star Team

Topic: The Double Scissors

3.

1. This is a double move, so you will need a little extra space to complete the move.

Don’t try it if your opponent is very close or closing in fast.

2. Don’t reach or lean back. Try and stay close to the ball so you’re well balanced and can perform the move at speed.

3. Use this move down the wings and when your opponent is in front of you

Jason Lancsar Philipp Lahm - Germany/Bayern Munich Profile: Captain of both Bayern Munich and Germany. Champions League Winner. A product of the Bayern Youth System STAR SKILL TOPIC: Striking Free kicks

THREE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW One: Time your run up to the ball, so your standing foot is slightly behind and to the side of the ball.

Step 1: Step around the ball with one foot.

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 Scissors.

Step 2: To the other side of it.

Step 1

Step 2

Two: If you want the ball to bend inwards use the inside front part of your kicking foot, and follow through after the strike.

Three: If you want the ball to bend Outwards use the outside front part of your kicking foot., and follow through after the strike.

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Step 3

Step 4

Step 3: Now do the same with your other foot, stepping around the ball.

Step 4: Then, with the outside of your original steparound foot, take the ball past your opponent.

See next issue for more tips from Coerver Coaching or for further information please visit our website www.coerver.com.au

cROSSWORd

croSSword #30 1

2

3

4

6

5

7 8

9

10 11

6 The Toffee Men (7) 7 Chelsea and England defender, John ___ (5)

11 Boating meet (7) 13 Cheerleader accessories (7)

9 Putting surface (5)

15 Tennis point (6)

10 Paul ___, Man Utd and England great (7)

16 Staying behind the last defender and goalkeeper (6)

12 West Tigers stalwart (4,7)

17 See 1 Down (5)

14 EPL team (11)

20 Shots under par for an eagle (3)

19 Royal race course (5) 21 See 2 Down

13

22 Bjorn Borg nationality (7) 15

16 17

18

dowN 1 and 17 Didier Drogba’s national team (5,5)

19

2 down and 21 across South African cricket captain (6,5)

20 21

8 Mistake-ridden (passage of football) (7)

18 Fast races (7)

12

14

AcroSS

22

3 Type of sled (3) 4 Shakespearian Italian football team? (6) 5 The Gunners (7)

croSSword #29 J O E R O O T P E R T H

E S S E E L Y C R O R R O L V I O P L W E N S E I G E R R U C I C A D O R O O N E B E L R P O K E E A T H

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