The Amateur Footballer, Week 8, 2017 by VAFA Media

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WELCOME TO EDITORIAL

Shona McInnes — Women’s Football Development Manager

GUEST EDITORIAL COVERING WOMEN’S FOOTBALL The legendary NFL coach Vince Lombardi once said “Confidence is contagious”. After taking over the reigns at the struggling Green Bay Packers in 1959, Lombardi was named NFL coach of the year in his rookie season. In the ‘rookie’ year of our women’s football competition, I have watched our women players evolve at an extraordinary rate. The improvement in skill level has been tangible and if you ask any of our senior women’s coaches they will tell you the same thing. I have been to a lot of games this year. Each week, I have focused on a specific aspect that we require as feedback for the continued planning and progress of the competition. Early on, during the grading rounds, my main aim was to gauge where each team was in its development and where they sat in comparison to the other teams. We had to strive to provide a competitive balance in each grade to make the competition enjoyable and fair. For the next few rounds, I was focused on the game itself. How was it evolving? Were we developing an enjoyable, sustainable style of game that will encourage players to join our competition and spectators to come along? With the inaugural Women’s VAFA Representative match approaching, I have turned my attention in the past few weeks from the macro approach to watching the players themselves. Last week I noticed that something unmistakable had arrived and announced itself to our women’s game: Confidence. We all talk about things like planning, talent,

hard work and mental toughness. On the sporting field you can have all these, but to be successful, confidence is the key ingredient. Remember most of our women players have never played before. Many of our new players have plenty of ability and now they are building belief in that ability. Now, I see women, instead of kicking the ball off the ground, putting their head over it to grab the ball off the turf and take off with it, maybe even with a bounce or two. Overhead marking is becoming commonplace. They have practised it at training and now they are trying it out on field, under pressure, and finding out “Hey, I can do this!”. When kicking for goal, the instinct is changing from hoping it goes through to knowing it’s going to go through. Last week I witnessed a player swoop on the ball near the boundary and, with a couple of opponents bearing down on her, she took a bounce and drilled the ball from just inside the arch straight through the middle of the big sticks. She meant it. She was ecstatic and the pure joy was exhilarating. Good coaches identify, capitalise and build on this belief. The confident players become role models and their teammates realise that they can give it a go as well. When that player kicked that superb goal from the boundary she showed her teammates what can be done. In the early stages of our flourishing VAFA Women’s competition confidence is a powerful tool in our armoury. As Vince Lombardi said, confidence is contagious. Bring on the infection! Cover: Caulfield Grammarian, Grace Buchan, breaks away from the pack

The Amateur Footballer

THE JOURNAL OF THE VICTORIAN AMATEUR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION June 3, 2017 THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2017

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Vol. 17 No. 8 1

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER

Nick Armistead

@NickArmistead

DE LA KNOCK OFF FIRST PLACED LIONS, OMS EDGE PAST TIGERS Should we have ever doubted De La Salle given the past three rounds of William Buck Premier football? LET’S BREAK IT DOWN: Round 4: Old Xaverians defeated Old Trinity by three points in the ‘grand final re-match’ after trailing by 20 at the last break. Round 5: St Kevin’s overran Old Xaverians with six unanswered goals in Q4 in a heavyweight bout some called the greatest Amateur game in recent years. Round 6: Collegians dismantled St Kevin’s by 90 points at the Trott; including seven unanswered goals in Q2. Round 7: De La Salle stifled Collegians’ new-found run and carry, defeating them by 25 points at Waverley Oval. The form is clear and the ‘Match of the Round’ is proving tough for side’s to mentally and physically recover from, losing the following week in all instances. By no means is it a knock on any team, but instead a reflection of how strong the top tier of VAFA football is across the board and how difficult it is to maintain the mental edge required to compete at a high level week in, week out. De La were outstanding, and despite missed opportunities in front of goal in the first term, settled for a 17-point lead at the first break. The second term was where De La proved to have the answers as they kept the Lions goalless while extending the margin to 22 points at the other end. Tom Humphrey and Brendan Close worked tirelessly in the defensive 50 to repel the Lions’ forward thrusts, with the latter keeping in-form star forward Lachie Ferguson without a major for the day. Humphrey is a top two key defender in the competition and highly respected by both Paul Satterley and opposition coaches, finishing second in the Premier Coaches MVP Award three years in a row. For as long as he is patrolling the back 50, De La will have an elite on-field general in defence. Adrian Indovino top-scored with three majors and now sits third on the goal-kicking leader board with 18, while Ed Clinch kicked two and another stunner from the pocket (check Plays of the Week on VAFA TV). Courtney Hylton, Nick Dixon and Viv Michie were impressive for the Lions, while Kenny 2

Ong showcased his skill and poise on both sides of the body. The Lions have a poor record at Waverley Oval and won’t be deterred by their first loss of the year, with Kalem Post, Matt Singleton, Will Johnson and Corey Cassidy still to return to their line-up. Suddenly, Old Melburnians are just half a game outside the four after they recorded their third consecutive win, defeating St Bedes/Mentone Tigers on Brindisi Street Oval. With scores locked at 41-apiece going into the last quarter, OMs registered two quick goals via Justin De Steiger and Ted De Fegely and held the Tigers off for the remainder of the match. Woodrow Medal fancy, Tom Paule, was at his very best through OMs’ midfield, while one of Country Road’s newest fashion icons, Oscar Hosking, impressed across all four quarters. The Tigers, who have now lost two of their past three, would have liked their chances on home soil, with Michael Barnes and George Rowlands continuing their hot form with three goals each. Brindisi has historically been a fortress for the Tigers, losing just twice there last year later in the season. However, they’ve now lost five of their past seven; including, three of their four home matches in 2017. Conversely, they’ve won two of their three away games this year and will look to improve that record at Banksia Reserve this weekend. University Blues staved off De La’s push for a top four position with a comprehensive 41-point victory over Old Trinity at Daley Oval. Leading by just two points at the first break, the Blues piled on seven unanswered goals in the second term as they took control of the match. Marc James (two) and Dan Batarilo (one) were the standout performers for the Blues, while Ross Young topscored with four goals and took his season tally to 13 from seven games. Young’s 13 goals are the highest of any midfielder except teammate Kieran Harper who leads alongside Matt Handley on 19. The spread of goal kickers at the Blues is most impressive, with Young, James, Harper and Jeremy Mugavin hitting the scoreboard alongside forwards Tim Gaeppen, Tom Quinn, Jamie Mugavin and Batarilo. Luke Pacconi was at his negating best in the defensive 50 for the T’s while Harry Tinney and Harry Thompson continued their outstanding individual seasons. The T’s are currently allowing an average of 76 points against per match after averaging just 66 at the same time last year, and 62 THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2017

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for the entire 2016 season. Their run over the past five rounds has been absurd, with games against the current top four sides and a healthy win against Beaumaris. They face the fifth-placed De La this weekend but if they can strengthen their overall team defence, the T’s should start a month-long winning run. 10 goals from Matt Handley (six) and Brendan Goss (four) helped Old Xaverians overcome a 22-point half-time deficit and run out nine-point winner against Beaumaris at Toorak Park. The offensive duo, who finished first and second in last year’s goal kicking, were unstoppable as Tomi and Clay Johnston provided plenty of drive into the forward 50. The Sharks were outstanding for most of the match and they kicked a higher score in the first half (10.7 - 67) than any full game this year. Sam Gibbins kicked four and Nick Dickinson (two) had his best game for the year. The grand final re-match this weekend is a different kettle of fish all together as the Sharks look to continue their winning form over the Tigers and claim their first win of the year. St Kevin’s recovered from their 90-point loss to the

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER

TODAY SELECTIONS IN BOLD Beaumaris v St Bedes/Mentone Tigers Old Trinity v De La Salle University Blues v Collegians St Kevin’s v Old Melburnians Old Xaverians v University Blacks

LAST ROUND

De La Salle 3.6, 4.9, 6.11, 11.13 (79) Collegians 1.1, 1.5, 4.9, 7.12 (54) GOALS, De La Salle: A. Indovino 3, E. Clinch 2, S. Pickett 1, L. Williams 1, S. Williams 1, L. Wood 1, J. Gotch 1, J. Williams 1 Collegians: V. Michie 2, K. Ong 2, D. Russo 1, N. Dixon 1, H. Johnson 1 BEST, De La Salle: B. Close, C. Robinson, J. Gotch, A. Walker, J. Williams, A. Indovino Collegians: V. Michie, C. Hylton, K. Ong, S. Evans, F. Cameron, M. Jenkinson University Blues 3.5, 10.7, 12.11, 15.13 (103) Old Trinity Gr 3.3, 3.9, 6.12, 8.14 (62) GOALS, University Blues: R. Young 4, J. Mugavin 2, T. Quinn 2, M. James 2, J. Mugavin 2, D. Batarilo 1, K. Harper 1, T. Geappen 1 Old Trinity Gr: A. Hasiotis 1, H. Tinney 1, S. Nicolosi 1, B. Iezzi 1, E. Weatherson 1, L. Juric 1, A. Polidoros 1, A. Scott 1 BEST, University Blues: M. James, D. Batarilo, R. Young, T. Geappen, W. Cuningham, R. Langham Old Trinity Gr: L. Pacconi, H. Tinney, H. Thompson, B. Iezzi, A. Scott, E. Weatherson Old Xaverians 3.0, 7.3, 12.6, 16.9 (105) Beaumaris 4.4, 10.7, 13.9, 14.12 (96) GOALS, Old Xaverians: M. Handley 6, B. Goss 4, T. Gilbert 3, H. Troiani 1, C. Lane 1, T. Johnston 1 Beaumaris: S. Gibbins 4, N. Dickinson 2, S. Milne 2, W. Edmonds 2, C. Beattie-Powell 1, J. Ward 1, R. Cathcart 1, T. Cumming 1 BEST, Old Xaverians: T. Johnston, M. Ambrose, C. Johnston, M. Handley, T. Gilbert, D. Noonan Beaumaris: N. Dickinson, T. Cumming, S. Gower, T. Grace, S. Gibbins, W. Edmonds Old Melburnians 4.3, 5.4, 6.5, 9.8 (62) St Bedes / Mentone Tigers 2.4, 5.5, 6.5, 7.8 (50) GOALS, Old Melburnians: J. De Steiger 2, E. De Fegely 1, G. Hurley-Wellington 1, J. Hooper 1, A. Armstrong 1, T. Bachet 1, S. Watson 1, C. Banfield 1 St Bedes / Mentone Tigers: G. Rowlands 3, M. Barnes 3, L. Velluto 1 BEST, Old Melburnians: T. Paule, O. Hosking, N. De Steiger, M. Wilkins, S. Watson, J. De Steiger St Bedes / Mentone Tigers: L. Mirams, D. Garside, D. Porter, T. Short, J. Tyquin, M. Barnes St Kevins 4.5, 9.7, 13.12, 18.21 (129) University Blacks 2.1, 5.1, 7.1, 8.1 (49) GOALS, St Kevins: J. Schulz 6, S. Kennedy 3, B. Kanakis 2, S. Salopek 1, M. Murphy 1, H. Parkes 1, L. Sullivan 1, M. Di Natale 1, B. Dowd 1, T. Cunningham 1 University Blacks: J. Vrodos 3, L. Dornauf 2, M. O’Brien 1, S. Bennett 1, M. Carney 1 BEST, St Kevins: L. Sullivan, T. Jok, J. Schulz, H. Lagastes, W. Coates, B. Dowd University Blacks: C. Richardson, B. Mahon, J. Vrodos, J. Steadman, M. Carney, J. Ernest

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2017

Lions in emphatic fashion, defeating University Blacks by 80 at Uni Oval. Led by a six-goal haul from Jay Schulz, SKOB were unrelenting as they hit the scoreboard 39 times in comparison to the Blacks’ nine. Lachlan Sullivan did his Rising Star chances no harm with a BOG performance for SKOB, while Thomas Jok continued his outstanding form across half back. Charlie Richardson and Bede Mahon dug deep for the Blacks on an otherwise special day in the club’s history, hosting the first-ever Indigenous Round clash with specialised guernseys and a ‘Welcome to Country’ ceremony prior to the match. The Blacks sit ninth with just one win from the first seven rounds, but after winning just one of their first four in 2016, proved they have the capacity to hit a hot streak when necessary.

PREMIER RESERVE

University Blacks 4.2, 9.2, 11.4, 12.10 (82) St Kevins 1.1, 3.3, 4.6, 7.9 (51) GOALS, University Blacks: T. Sharp 5, M. Nunan 2, S. McKenzie 1, C. Bowden 1, S. Myers 1, L. Steere 1, Z. Harris 1 St Kevins: A. Clough 3, J. Gambaro 1, L. Mahoney 1, J. Tighe 1, J. Dimattina 1 BEST, University Blacks: J. Gardiner, C. Bowden, S. McKenzie, C. Moorfield, T. Sharp, S. Myers St Kevins: A. Clough, T. Kerr, J. Tighe, F. Keely, A. Webb, J. Stewart Collegians 4.1, 9.3, 12.7, 15.12 (102) De La Salle 2.4, 3.4, 3.4, 3.7 (25) GOALS, Collegians: L. Fernandez 3, T. Wyett 3, F. Sullivan 2, E. Cattell 2, L. Lyon 2, E. Rice 1, J. Bazzani 1, F. Huntington 1 De La Salle: k. Tran 1, R. McDonough 1, S. Lowe 1 BEST, Collegians: L. Lyon, H. Sullivan, T. Wyett, F. Huntington, L. Fernandez, E. Cattell De La Salle: M. Martinez, P. Burnell, D. Marchese, M. Griechen, S. Hogan, R. McDonough University Blues 3.3, 5.5, 9.8, 11.8 (74) Old Trinity Gr 2.1, 6.5, 7.8, 10.13 (73) GOALS, University Blues: D. Cumming 2, A. Wettenhall 1, T. Carr 1, S. Sleigh 1, W. Horsfall 1, T. Girdwood 1, S. Smith 1, J. Moloney 1, R. McMahon 1, J. Townley 1 Old Trinity Gr: N. Adgemis 3, M. Corney 2, T. Mitchell 1, E. Satur 1, C. Rae 1, C. Lindsey 1, M. Lasorko 1 BEST, University Blues: J. Moloney, R. McMahon, M. Blair, L. Wardle, A. Wettenhall, W. Horsfall Old Trinity Gr: J. Spassopoulos, J. Sando, K. Spassopoulos, N. Adgemis, H. Winter, A. Coughlin Old Xaverians 1.3, 4.5, 6.7, 7.13 (55) Beaumaris 0.1, 1.2, 4.7, 6.7 (43) GOALS, Old Xaverians: M. Margin 2, J. Forrest 2, H. Nidam 1, L. Keith 1, H. Cullity 1 Beaumaris: M. Wilson 2, J. Smith 2, S. Moore 1, B. O’Brien 1 BEST, Old Xaverians: J. Midgley , H. Cullity, T. Anderson, C. Woodley, E. Barr, W. Richards Beaumaris: L. Tedde, S. Doherty, M. DeFontenay, J. Smith, T. Abbott, M. Wilson Old Melburnians 4.2, 6.3, 11.7, 13.8 (86) St Bedes / Mentone Tigers 1.2, 3.8, 4.9, 9.10 (64) GOALS, Old Melburnians: J. Regan 3, C. Wischer 2, T. Marshall 2, H. Hanlon 2, W. Leveni 2, T. McLardy 1, T. Healey 1 St Bedes / Mentone Tigers: N. Henricks 4, L. Palfrey 2, M. Johnstone 1, M. Geschke 1, M. Caia 1 BEST, Old Melburnians: T. McLardy, N. Voyage, R. Hayward, C. Barry, H. Watkin, J. Regan St Bedes / Mentone Tigers: N. Henricks, M. Geschke, M. Seeber, L. Palfrey, M. Millwood, M. Caia

PREMIER B

David Chalmers

THE FOOTY GODS HAVE SPOKEN I should have known that as soon as I made a definitive statement about the Premier B season and the direction it would take, the ‘footy gods’ would conspire against me. In saying that, I’m glad they have, because the season is now wide open and the next few weeks will make for fascinating viewing. Scotch, Brighton and St Bernards all passed 100 goals for the season, while there is only one game between places fifth to ninth on the ladder. St Bernard’s and Old Scotch met in the match of the round, with Old Scotch still undefeated and the Snowdogs licking their wounds after a couple of losses in a row. The margin at three-quarter time was under three goals, setting up a grandstand finish. Luke Di Lizio got the first of the quarter before Tom Kerr took a contested mark and replied for the Scotchies. The Snowdogs then went on a run and hit the front, with Shaun Clarke, Simon Caven and Edyn Sibbald kicking goals in the space of eight minutes, before Harvey Hooper landed a long one from outside 50 that bounced through to stem the tide. Chris Spinella had the chance to get the lead back for St Bernards but hit the post, before Charlie Vague retrieved the ball from the Old Scotch kick-in and put the Snowdogs back in front. Jordan Clarke snatched the lead back for Old Scotch, then both teams traded behinds as the game neared its climax. With thirty seconds remaining there was a throw-in on the Old Scotch half forward line. St Bernards cleared the ball and rushed it down to their goal square where there was a two-on-two aerial contest. Simon Caven found himself on the goal line with the ball in his hands and managed to put it through, giving St Bernard’s the lead with literally seconds remaining. Jack Bull cleared the ball from the centre bounce but the siren sounded as the ball was in the air, signaling Old Scotch’s first defeat of season 2017. Mazenod celebrated its 50th Founders Day last week, and this week it was Ajax’s turn to celebrate, as the two teams Round 7 matchup coincided with Ajax’s 60th anniversary. Both sides entered the match at 3-3, so there was a lot at stake. There were notable omissions from both camps, with Ajax missing Evgeni Routman, Toby Lipton and Brad Caplan, while Mazenod were without Stephen Welsford and Rees Thomas. The Nodders got the better start with a four goal opening term, 4

@DAChalmers81 and neither side could make an impression in the second, with Mazenod scoreless and Ajax managing 1.6. The Jackas got their kicking boots on after the long break, four goals giving them a handy advantage at the final change. Neither side got on the board in the first six minutes of the last quarter, then Jacob Murdock finally broke the drought for the Nodders with a mark and successful set shot. Another ten minutes went by before Dov Paltiel and Asher Burstin replied for the Jackas, then Liam Welsford got one back for Mazenod. Nick Lewis and Daniel Goodman added goals, ensuring their anniversary celebrations would be topped off with a victory on the field. Monash (2-4) and Fitzroy (3-3) met at Brunswick Street for a classic ‘eight point’ encounter, having both come off losses the previous week. It was a tight contest all day, with the margin in single digits at every break. Joe Harrison got the visitors final term off to a great start, while Luke Baker and Nino Lazzaro both took strong contested marks for the Roys but neither could convert successfully. Monash took control of the game and kicked four goals in the next ten minutes. Maddison Hardiman roved a throw-in and snapped a clever goal, Nick Woodland dobbed one on the run from 50, Nick Petering took advantage of a Fitzroy defensive error in the goal square, and then Nick Argento crumbed a pack and kicked truly. Emile Pavlich finally got one for the Roys after good work from Lazzaro and Baker before Monash kicked another three courtesy of Argento, Harrison and Woodland. Nathan Ligris got a late one back for the home side before Maddison Hardiman found himself with the ball as the siren sounded and capped a great quarter for the Blues with a goal. The result leaves both sides at 3-4 and one game outside the top four. Winless Peninsula had what they probably considered to be their best chance of grabbing their first win of the season when they visited the Vultures Nest to take on Parkdale, who were in ninth spot with one win. Luke Clark got the Vultures off to a great start with a goal inside the first couple of minutes. A Peninsula defensive switch to the goal square was intercepted by Zac Straker, who made no mistake with a set shot, then followed up with another soon after. Ryan O’Leary received a free then a 25m penalty taking him to the goal line, then Matt Wetering chipped in with a couple. Stuart Grigg kicked the Pirates only score for the quarter when he hit the post after being rewarded for a great tackle in the forward 50. THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2017

Please email your match reports, thoughts and feelings by Sunday afternoon to dachalmers@gmail.com

Straker converted a set shot from a free kick, then just before the quarter time siren a Pirates kick-in was marked and sent straight back through the big sticks, giving the Vultures a 7.5 to 0.1 quarter time lead. Things didn’t get much better for the Pirates through the middle stages of the game, with inaccuracy costing them dearly. They won the last quarter (with 3.7), but are now two games clear on the bottom of the ladder. Old Brighton Grammarians remains the only unbeaten Premier B side after another powerful finish burnt off a determined Old Carey, who midway through the final term, challenged and drew level with the competition leaders. Celebrating Josh Dickerson’s 300th game, the Tonners led all day after booting five goals in the first quarter, but the Panthers kept coming. Patty Liston and Tom King got early goals for the visitors, while at the other end Carey’s young forwards squandered their first chances. The second term saw both sides running hard, the entertaining game often producing extended contests without any of the regular stoppages that plagued earlier games.

PREMIER B

TODAY SELECTIONS IN BOLD Old Scotch v Old Brighton Old Carey v Fitzroy Peninsula v Monash Ajax v St Bernards Parkdale v Mazenod

LAST ROUND

AJAX 1.2, 2.8, 6.11, 10.11 (71) Mazenod 4.0, 4.0, 5.1, 7.1 (43) GOALS, AJAX: A. Krakauer 3, A. Burstin 2, D. Paltiel 1, J. Ludski 1, D. Goodman 1, K. Nissenbaum 1, N. Lewis 1 Mazenod: S. Lovell 2, B. Phibbs 2, J. Murdock 1, L. Welsford 1, T. Odrowaz 1 BEST, AJAX: A. Krakauer, A. Burstin, C. Hamilton, Z. Fleisher, K. Nissenbaum, J. Ludski Mazenod: S. Hall, B. Kovac, D. Izon, D. Byrne, S. Lovell, N. Thomas Monash Blues 2.3, 5.6, 6.8, 15.9 (99) Fitzroy 1.4, 4.5, 5.12, 7.17 (59) GOALS, Monash Blues: M. Hardiman 3, N. Petering 3, J. Harrison 3, N. Argento 2, N. Woodland 2, L. Darling 1, A. Young 1 Fitzroy: E. Pavlich 2, A. Burke 1, C. Stevic 1, N. Ligris 1, O. Symington 1, W. Symons 1 BEST, Monash Blues: J. Harrison, A. Young, C. Pither, B. Harris, D. Commins Fitzroy: N. Ligris, L. Baker, M. Ellis, J. Long, J. Dalton, T. Clayton Old Brighton Gr 5.2, 7.3, 9.8, 14.11 (95) Old Carey 2.6, 5.6, 8.7, 10.9 (69) GOALS, Old Brighton Gr: N. Coroneos 3, M. Karayannis 3, O. Cavallaro 2, M. Dewar 1, P. Liston 1, T. King 1, B. Jarick 1, T. Fisher 1, A. Mastromanno 1 Old Carey: T. Carter-Taylor 3, S. Cust 2, C. Jones 2, Z. Adam 1, M. Lock 1, M. Evans 1 BEST, Old Brighton Gr: E. Tait, J. Dickerson, T. Garner, B. Jakobi, P. Liston, M. Gadsden Old Carey: Z. Adam, T. Carter-Taylor, S. Crocker, S. Cust, L. Fotheringham, M. Lock Parkdale Vultures 7.5, 11.7, 16.10, 18.10 (118) Peninsula 0.1, 1.6, 2.7, 5.14 (44) GOALS, Parkdale Vultures: M. Boland 5, J. Green 3, Z. Straker 3, M. Wetering 2, L. Platt 1, L. Clark 1, R. O’Leary 1, C. Dillon 1, S. Kelleher 1 Peninsula: S. Grigg 2, T. Wilkinson 1, T. Taylor 1, W. Harbinson 1 BEST, Parkdale Vultures: T. Redmond, L. Clark, C. Dillon, A. Knight, J. Peake, J. Green Peninsula: T. Feldgen, S. Grigg, T. La Brooy, A. Smrdel, S. Harrison, W. Crowder St Bernards 5.3, 6.7, 7.12, 13.14 (92) Old Scotch 2.1, 9.9, 10.10, 13.11 (89) GOALS, St Bernards: C. Vague 3, S. Caven 2, E. Sibbald 2, L. Di Lizio 2, C. Hughes 1, D. Iermano 1, S. Clarke 1, N. Cooke 1 Old Scotch: H. Larwill 4, J. Sansom 3, H. Hooper 1, T. Kerr 1, J. Bull 1, J. Clarke 1, J. Halsall 1, G. van den Broek 1 BEST, St Bernards: C. Vague, A. Bentick, T. Caven, M. Angel, N. Cooke, A. Singleton Old Scotch: H. Hooper, J. Sansom, L. Byrne-Jones, M. Seed, H. Larwill, J. Bull

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2017

Carey looked good and maintained pressure on the Tonners, who couldn’t establish the superiority that has regularly parcelled up games by the long break. Michael Dewar got an early one for Old Brighton, but the Panthers crept closer and it took a fine mark and goal by the young Maestro to keep them at bay. The game was wide open at three-quarter time and the Panthers drew level during a pulsating final term. Just as the Panthers appeared to have the momentum to win, they ran smack into the collective resolve of a Tonner outfit that has finished hard in every match, whose ability to find targets with accurate passing eventually cracked Carey’s defence wide open. Late goals to Nick Coroneos and Michael Karayannis led to a 26-point win.

PREMIER B RESERVE

Mazenod 1.2, 2.5, 5.6, 7.10 (52) AJAX 0.3, 0.3, 1.4, 3.5 (23) GOALS, Mazenod: A. Noone 2, F. Palleschi 1, J. Egan 1, D. Wiles 1, J. Devlin 1, M. Adam 1 AJAX: B. Michelson 1, O. Hoffman 1, J. Goldberg 1 BEST, Mazenod: C. Poretti, L. Greco, J. Buccella, B. Riley, P. Rozanitis, S. Mydaras AJAX: S. Fayman, T. Rogers, A. Danby, D. Janover-Rocha, J. Goldberg, B. Michelson Fitzroy 5.1, 8.4, 11.7, 15.10 (100) Monash Blues 2.3, 4.5, 7.9, 9.12 (66) GOALS, Fitzroy: W. Pickering 7, S. Baker 2, C. James 1, B. McDonald 1, L. Sugrue 1, T. Scullie 1, T. Wells 1, M. Davie 1 Monash Blues: J. Young 4, D. Meehan 1, T. Vaughan 1, M. Mason 1, S. Walsh 1, L. Buck 1 BEST, Fitzroy: M. McWhinney, W. Pickering, M. Davie, L. Sugrue, A. Green Monash Blues: T. Vaughan, S. Whatley, J. Young, D. Meehan, P. Long, C. Wheeler Old Carey 2.5, 6.6, 9.8, 12.9 (81) Old Brighton Gr 2.2, 5.5, 6.6, 8.11 (59) GOALS, Old Carey: W. Mitchell 4, J. Cator 3, S. Bailey 2, E. Aujard 1, D. Cameron 1, C. Wallace 1 Old Brighton Gr: A. Gunning 2, J. Cowling 1, N. Graham-Bowman 1, B. Randall 1, L. Otto 1, H. Graham 1, T. Clarke 1 BEST, Old Carey: C. Wallace, W. Mitchell, N. Richardson, M. Parker, E. Aujard, T. Smith Old Brighton Gr: J. Davis, H. Graham, A. Gunning, M. Ho, A. McBain, N. Graham-Bowman Parkdale Vultures 5.8, 10.9, 17.15, 22.22 (154) Peninsula 0.0, 4.4, 4.4, 5.7 (37) GOALS, Parkdale Vultures: J. Everest 4, D. Glascott 3, R. Irvine 3, B. Dillon 2, M. Ferguson 1, T. Congerton 1, R. Meade 1, K. Bode 1, T. McLENNAN 1, B. Dickson 1, J. Stent-Powell 1, J. Salouris 1, O. Herd 1, B. Stevenson 1 Peninsula: A. Hochegger 2, C. Ashdown 1, L. Newton 1, N. Holland 1 BEST, Parkdale Vultures: J. Everest, J. Salouris, J. Stent-Powell, O. Herd, C. Giosis, M. Francis Peninsula: C. Ashdown, N. Holland, C. Davis, S. Barbour, B. Theobald, A. Brockley Old Scotch 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 9.13 (67) St Bernards 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 9.3 (57) GOALS, Old Scotch: P. Djordjevic 2, W. Stewart 2, A. Hayes 2, W. Michael 1, N. Bennison 1, J. Gordon 1 St Bernards: J. Van Meel 2, J. Riley 1, W. Considine 1, J. Forder 1, P. Gamwell 1, J. Shine 1, B. Peart 1, I. Madden 1 BEST, Old Scotch: B. Hays, M. Wills, C. Melville, H. Dick, A. Hayes St Bernards: W. Considine, L. Beddoe, L. Scerri, T. Rose, J. Shine, M. Stapleton

PREMIER C

Mitch op’t Hoog

OGS BOUNCE BACK, BLOODS STAND TALL Round 7 was my first week as Premier C scribe where I was able to correctly predict all five of the matches. I’m hoping that’s more of a testament to the tight contest we have in Premier C as opposed to my poor tipping skills. While the results went the way you’d expect in Round 7, that’s not to say there weren’t any surprises. Old Ivanhoe continued to confuse spectators as they fell to Old Geelong who were able to bounce back from a heart-breaking one point loss and prove their mettle, which was being questioned by some. Additionally, Old Camberwell lost to the Panthers and still managed to climb a spot on the ladder. While the competition starts to take a more definitive form, there’s still only one game separating third spot and ninth spot on the ladder, meaning games over the next month will prove to be crucial to each team’s finals hopes. Marcellin have had a rough two weeks, coming against the top two teams on the trot, both away from home. Last week against Old Haileybury, despite losing, they showed that they were capable of matching it with the best in Premier C, however, this week at Glenhuntly Oval it was a different story. Possibly due to the mental exhaustion of last week’s tough game, Marcellin got off to a very sluggish start, failing to register a score in the opening term and allowing caulfield to use the wind to kick ahead by nine goals. At the first break, the Fielders held a very comfortable 59-point lead. With the wind in the second term, Marcellin managed to have more scoring shots than Caulfield (five to seven), but failed to make any inroads due to their inaccuracy. The lead at halftime had marginally increased to 62 points. Back with the wind in the third term, Caulfield kicked a further three goals ahead while holding the Eagles goalless to put the result beyond doubt. The Eagles did stage a mini resurgence in the final quarter and outscored the Fielders, however, the 82-point three quarter time deficit was always going to be a tall order, even kicking with the strong wind. 10 individual goal-scorers peppered the scoreboard for Caulfield Grammarians with Will Osborn and rising star Nick Baltas doing the most damage kicking three apiece. At this stage of the year, kicking winning scores is not an issue for Caulfield as they’ve respectively scored over 120 points in six of their seven games this year. The only game they failed to do so was against defensive powerhouse, Old Haileybury, who are the only team to defeat the Fielders’ this year. Kew, still searching for their first win of the year, faced off against Williamstown CYMS who were coming off a close defeat at the hands of Old Camberwell in Round 6. This match-up would be a challenge for a Kew as the CYs at their best have proven to be able to compete with the top teams in Premier C. A strong breeze at Victoria

@mitch_toog Park allowed the Bears to get off to the best possible start, kicking six goals straight to the CY’s two goals. In the second term, the story changed and the CYs made the most of the breeze, letting their sails down and putting on an offensive clinic, leaving the Bears in their wake. Williamstown CYMS kicked 10 goals in the second quarter and claimed a 23-point halftime buffer. The last half was an even battle, and while the goals continued to flow, neither side took full advantage of the wind as the CYs had in the second quarter. Ultimately, Williamstown CYMS proved too good and ran the game out to win by 33-points. The final score line read 107 to 140 in what was with a doubt Kew’s best performance for the year. The Bears will be disappointed not to have claimed their first scalp of 2017, yet there were plenty of good signs for them to build on moving forward. Andrew Brazzale was once again dominant, kicking six in a BOG performance, however, this week he was not left to do all the work alone. Rob Maibaum and Sam Glover kicked three each while Daniel Boehm worked tirelessly all day. For the CYs, Ben Gray kicked five goals and continued his strong year while Nick Blackney was awarded BOG in his best performance of 2017. After their heartbreaking loss last week, courtesy of a last-minute Rovers goal, Round 7 would be a true test of Old Geelong’s character. To make it all the more challenging, the Ogs were coming up against an unpredictable Old Ivanhoe who have taken it to, and even beaten, some of the top sides in Premier C. However, Old Geelong weren’t ready or willing to lose another in close circumstances and put all of last week’s frustration and disappointment behind them to jump the Hoers unawares and take a 12-goal lead into halftime. Old Ivanhoe had only managed three scoring shots for the half, converting just the one major. Conversely, Old Geelong had piled on 12 goals from 20 scoring shots in the first two quarters. The game was all but over at halftime, and the Ogs continued to kick away from a lacklustre Old Ivanhoe and claim an emphatic 103-point victory. Had the Hoers not had Charlie Groth on their side, the margin may have been even greater as he kicked three of his team’s four goals for the day. For the Ogs, it was a truly dominant performance with 12 individual players kicking at least one goal. Edward Keach (1) was judged best on for the winning side who find themselves at fifth on the ladder after sitting in ninth spot last week. Old Ivanhoe have slipped down to eighth spot, with an equal win-loss ratio to the Ogs but a percentage of just 72.31%. Coming off their exciting one-point thriller against Old Geelong, Hampton Rovers would be faced with a big challenge of taking on the top side, Old Haileybury. Entering the game with high hopes, the joy from last week’s win would come to a screeching halt for the Rovers as the Bloods helped themselves to a five-goal first quarter while holding Hampton goalless. Unfortunately for the Rovers, the score line didn’t improve much from there with Old Haileybury increasing their margin at every break, even containing the Rovers to a second goalless quarter in the third

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term. From quarter time, the Bloods kicked an impressive 17 of the next 24 goals of the match to round out their emphatic 91-point victory. While the scorecard is a forgettable one for the Rovers, they did manage to show a few positive signs during the final term bagging four of their seven goals - though they were still outscored by an unforgiving Haileybury. The Bloods will be thrilled with their convincing win as they kicked their second biggest score for the year and had 10 individual goalscorers, including John Nicolopoulos with seven. In saying that, the real strength of this Old Haileybury side is their defence; The Bloods have given up the least amount of points against this season at just 394, 118 better than their next best (Caulfield with 512 points against). Their are some good signs there for Old Haileybury and they remain my flag favourite despite Caulfield’s big win in Round 7. Old Mentonians were looking to bounce back from two losses in a row and claim a spot in the top four after slipping down to fifth place after Round 6. Old Camberwell would be looking to build on their impressive Round 6 win against Williamstown CYMS with the inclusion of Hawthorn premiership player, Michael Osborne. The Wellers’ would’ve been feeling confident coming up against an out-of-form Panthers side, however, despite the classy addition of Osborne, the game started as a scrappy arm wrestle out at

PREMIER C

TODAY SELECTIONS IN BOLD Hampton Rovers v Old Camberwell Old Ivanhoe v Marcellin Old Geelong v Caulfield Williamstown CYMS v Old Mentonians Kew AFC v Old Haileybury

LAST ROUND

Caulfield Gr 9.5, 11.8, 14.13, 18.14 (122) Marcellin OC 0.0, 1.6, 1.9, 6.12 (48) GOALS, Caulfield Gr: N. Baltas 3, W. Osborn 3, H. Mills 2, N. Silvestro 2, D. Meddings 2, D. Reilly 2, T. Small 1, M. Neratzoglou 1, W. Barker 1, X. Jordan 1 Marcellin OC: D. Cullinan 2, J. Green 2, P. Howe 1, M. Jones 1 BEST, Caulfield Gr: X. Jordan, T. Thompson, J. Stewart, J. Woodman, A. Lister, W. Barker Marcellin OC: J. Iezzi, J. Robertson, J. Blanch, R. McKenzie, P. Hamblin, M. Gasparini Williamstown CYMS 2.3, 12.5, 15.8, 21.14 (140) Kew 6.0, 8.4, 12.9, 16.11 (107) GOALS, Williamstown CYMS: B. Gray 5, J. Slee 2, D. Calman-Orr 2, Z. Read 2, J. Hogarth 2, M. Carland 2, J. Gray 2, J. Johnson 1, R. Chan 1, M. Parkinson 1, K. Dawson 1 Kew: A. Brazzale 6, R. Maibaum 3, S. Glover 3, K. Margaritis 2, T. Orchard 1, M. Hannan 1 BEST, Williamstown CYMS: N. Blackney, B. Gray, J. Slee, Z. Read, B. Coram, J. Johnson Kew: A. Brazzale, D. Boehm, R. Maibaum, S. Glover, J. Delbridge, M. Hannan Old Geelong 5.6, 12.8, 18.13, 19.17 (131) Old Ivanhoe Gr 0.1, 1.2, 3.3, 4.3 (27) GOALS, Old Geelong: C. Wood 4, J. Grimshaw 4, S. Youngman 2, S. Anderson 1, R. de Crespigny 1, J. Read 1, O. Jones 1, J. Hoevenaars 1, E. Keach 1, T. Balcombe 1, J. Simson 1, J. Jess 1 Old Ivanhoe Gr: C. Groth 3, H. Heta 1 BEST, Old Geelong: E. Keach, J. Hoevenaars, R. Kemp, C. Comben, J. Jess, T. Balcombe Old Ivanhoe Gr: C. Groth, T. Kellock, D. Bruno, H. Heta, J. Erman, T. O’Halloran Old Haileyburians 5.3, 12.6, 17.8, 22.10 (142) Hampton Rovers 0.2, 3.6, 3.8, 7.9 (51) GOALS, Old Haileyburians: J. Nicolopoulos 7, C. Rich 3, N. Waite 3, N. Gooda 2, N. Garratt 2, A. Woltering 1, C. Connelly 1, T. Witherow 1, E. Limon 1, P. Shakallis 1 Hampton Rovers: N. Pavlou 3, A. Folino 1, B. Kneebush 1, A. McNeil 1, C. Hetherington 1 BEST, Old Haileyburians: J. Nicolopoulos, J. Plymin, J. Toy, N. Garratt, T. Witherow, J. Arthur Hampton Rovers: C. Carnovale, A. McNeil, S. Curry, R. De Biase, N. Pavlou, R. Atkins Old Mentonians 2.5, 10.8, 13.10, 15.15 (105) Old Camberwell Gr 1.3, 4.5, 10.11, 11.14 (80) GOALS, Old Mentonians: J. Davis 3, K. Conlon 3, B. Rossi 3, J. Dalzotto 2, M. Coen 2, L. Hull 1, J. Kay 1 Old Camberwell Gr: J. Allen 3, N. Adamson 3, C. Hensby 2, A. Clarke 1, J. Arnold 1, L. Huysmans 1 BEST, Old Mentonians: B. Nicoll, D. Brown, K. Conlon, B. Rossi, B. Norton, J. Davis Old Camberwell Gr: J. Allen, J. Arnold, C. Hensby, D. Proksa, S. MacDonald, B. Hart

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2017

Keysborough Playing Fields with only three goals scored in the opening quarter. In the second quarter, the game opened up and the Panthers took full advantage of their run and carry, straightening up in front of goal and kicking eight goals from 11 attempts to take a nice 39-point buffer into the long break. The Wellers came out firing in the third and kicked 6.6 to Old Mentonians 3.2 to get themselves within striking distance of the panthers at three quarter time. While the Wellers have pulled off a few come-from-behind victories this year, Old Mentonians proved too strong with the wind behind them and managed to hold off a determined Old Camberwell by 25 points. James Allen, with three goals for the Wellers, played his best game for the year, while Jack Davis continued his stellar 2017 season and bagged three of his own for the Panthers. The Panthers sneak back into the top four on percentage. While, despite the loss, the Wellers managed to climb a spot on the ladder and go from eighth to seventh, ahead of Hampton Rovers on percentage.

PREMIER C RESERVE

Caulfield Gr 4.2, 7.4, 7.4, 11.6 (72) Marcellin OC 1.1, 3.7, 3.7, 4.8 (32) GOALS, Caulfield Gr: J. Small 4, L. O’Keefe 2, T. Smith 2, W. Kingwill 1, L. Nixon 1, C. Logan 1 Marcellin OC: D. Redmond 1, J. Licciardi 1, A. McGlin 1, A. McHenry 1 BEST, Caulfield Gr: J. Small, T. Rothel, C. Logan, J. Anderson, L. O’Keefe, B. Carboni Marcellin OC: L. MacKie, J. Licciardi, R. Elphinstone, T. Black, M. Donnoli, A. McHenry Williamstown CYMS 3.1, 7.6, 8.8, 12.9 (81) Kew 2.5, 2.5, 4.11, 4.14 (38) GOALS, Williamstown CYMS: R. Danaher 3, B. Carvalho 3, M. McLaughlin 3, S. Raunik 1, L. Mandato 1, M. Venosta 1 Kew: N. Drummond 1, T. Allman 1, S. Healey 1, C. Watts 1 BEST, Williamstown CYMS: J. Neylon, J. Tripodi, T. Ball, B. Carvalho, J. Micallef, I. Ridout Kew: T. Allman, T. Chapman, S. Smart, N. Drummond, C. Kerr, B. Marchant Old Geelong 3.5, 7.8, 10.10, 16.15 (111) Old Ivanhoe Gr 2.4, 4.6, 6.9, 7.9 (51) GOALS, Old Geelong: W. Holmes 3, J. Kemp 3, B. Gore 3, W. Evans 1, X. Everett 1, P. Tucker 1, D. Andrew 1, J. Tivendale 1, T. Nagle 1, B. Johnston 1 Old Ivanhoe Gr: B. Lee 4, B. Thompson 1, M. Wright 1, C. Matheson 1 BEST, Old Geelong: J. Tivendale, B. Gore, W. Evans, T. Breadmore, J. Kemp, J. Coumans Old Ivanhoe Gr: A. Stenta, T. Ikeda, C. Matheson, J. O’Neill, B. Lee, T. Fidler Hampton Rovers 3.1, 5.3, 8.4, 15.4 (94) Old Haileyburians 1.4, 4.7, 9.8, 12.9 (81) GOALS, Hampton Rovers: A. Fisher 5, N. Murnane 2, D. Merlo 2, T. Jones 2, A. Duddy 2, N. Jackson 1, J. Donald 1 Old Haileyburians: B. Oakes 2, J. Alkemade 2, Z. Tsinanis 2, B. O’Leary 1, M. Quiambao 1, T. Coles 1, A. Thorley 1, S. Hall 1, D. Newby 1 BEST, Hampton Rovers: D. Merlo, M. Care, A. Fisher, J. Donald, T. Jones, N. Jackson Old Haileyburians: Z. Tsinanis, J. Cain, B. O’Leary, J. Mantell, S. Hall, M. Quiambao Old Camberwell Gr 1.4, 5.6, 9.9, 9.15 (69) Old Mentonians 2.0, 3.1, 6.1, 6.1 (37) GOALS, Old Camberwell Gr: M. Jenkin 2, S. Kaiser 2, N. Russell 1, J. Simon 1, W. Kanz 1, S. Clark 1, J. Edwards 1 Old Mentonians: A. Palmer 2, O. Webber 1, C. Downie 1, A. Saico 1, B. Hodges 1 BEST, Old Camberwell Gr: L. Stanboultgis, J. Edwards, M. Cottrell, T. Vogel, W. Kanz, T. Stayner Old Mentonians: J. Costello, S. Bardoel, A. Palmer, C. Downie, D. Forsyth

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LATE SCORES, FINES AND TRIBUNAL Tribunal Results – Wednesday 24 May 2017 PLAYER TEAM

CHARGE

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Beaumaris (U19)

Unreasonable Rough Conduct

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St Kevins (3rds)

Striking

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Collegians (Womens Div 2) Striking

2 Matches

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Parkdale Vultures

Striking

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St Marys

Striking

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Old Scotch

Unreasonable Rough Conduct

2 Matches

Gabriel Hamilton

Old Trinity

Unreasonable Rough Conduct

3 Matches

Michael Chamberlain

Mazenod

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FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME Send any FTLOTG stories to mitch@vafa.com.au by midday on Monday.

STYLIN’ ON AND OFF THE FIELD We knew the Old Melburnian boys played an attractive style of football, but we didn’t think that would convert into the fashion world! Over the bye weekend in April, Old Melburnian players, Oscar Hosking, Matt Thomas and Josh Freezer made the most of their weekend off and did some “modelling” and had a chat with Country Road for their ‘That’s The Thing About Football’ blog post. In the post, which you can find on Country Road’s website, Matt Thomas answered all the hardhitting football questions, such as: “Watching the footy is notoriously cold, especially in Melbourne. What are your go-to pieces to keep warm in the stands?” Great stuff boys! Hopefully your style, both on and off the field, can lead to more success stories later in the year. (Photography credit to Stephen Ward)

WOMEN’S REPRESENTATIVE COACH ANNOUNCED With the announcement that the VAFA will be siding a women’s representative team in 2017 to take on AFL Goldfields in early July, there has been much speculation surrounding the selection of players and coaching staff to take part in the inaugural VAFA women’s rep match. While we can continue to speculate about player selection (watch the latest episode of VAFA Tragics for some insights), the inaugural women’s coach has just been announced. The first ever VAFA representative women’s coach will be former Uni Blues premiership coach, John Kanis. Kanis has an impressive CV including the aforementioned 2004 premiership with Uni Blues in Premier Division as well as experience as an assistant coach for the VAFA men’s representative side with which he toured Ireland. We can’t wait to see the team he selects. Congratulations, John! 10

THE COOLEST MASCOT IN FOOTBALL We knew Old Eltham had the coolest mascot in the VAFA, but now so does everyone else – thanks to Western Bulldogs skipper Bob Murphy. In his weekly top 5 segment on SEN radio, Bob counted down his favourite footy club mascots, with the Turtles claiming the number one position. When you’re ranked higher than the Yabbies and the Bushpigs, you’re definitely doing something right. THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2017

DREAMTIME SUCCESS FOR IVIES Ivanhoe’s Women’s team, the Ivies, had extra reason to celebrate the national Indigenous Round last weekend. The Ivies, who play in Women’s Development Division 2, were granted a permit to play Tiwi Islander, Jamie Lee Puautjimi (pictured middle right with the drink bottle). Puautjimi, who plays for NTFL Women’s Premier League club St Marys, was visiting Melbourne for the Dreamtime Game at the MCG. Ivies coach, Bill Emerson, said they were lucky to have Jamie playing as she may well have been the difference in the end. “She has a cousin Natasha who played for Ivanhoe Juniors several years ago and we were lucky enough to get her down for a game. In the last quarter, she just turned it on,” said Emerson. The Ivies beat Oakleigh by 15 points at Ivanhoe Park, 4.6 to 2.3, and Puautjimi starred, kicking three of her team’s four goals. Funnily enough, Jamie wasn’t the only St Marys player for Ivanhoe, with Rachael Tynan, the Ivies player in the right of the photo with her arm around Jamie, is a former St Marys teammate of Jamie’s. Thanks to Phil Skeggs for sending in the story and to Janice Wright for providing photographs.

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MILESTONES

All milestones to mitch@vafa.com.au by Monday noon. Please supply a picture or Milestones reserves the right to find one on the web. GAMES

200

150

VAFA CONGRATULATES YOU IN REACHING THE MILESTONE

Congratulations to Fitzroy Thirds Premiership player and now life member, DAN RYAN, who played his 200th game for Fitzroy on Saturday against Monash Blues. A former captain and coach of the side, D-Rock - as he is affectionately known by his team mates - was duly celebrated tongue-in-cheek with his own banner saying '200 serviceable games' as he ran onto Ramsden Street Oval. It is a measure of the esteem with which he is held that the Thirds team spent weeks organising a fan day, including individual player badges, to celebrate a great mate, player and club man. Congratulations Dan on reaching 200 games and becoming a life member of Fitzroy. Congratulations to MHSOBFC senior captain and club legend MICHAEL BRAIN on reaching his 200th game this weekend. Michael is a fearless competitor whose preparation is second to none. After skippering the under 19s, “Brainy” stepped straight into senior footy and was a member of the Unicorns 2004 C Grade premiership team. In 2017, Michael has taken the reigns of the senior side as a cocaptain, and is leading from the front with his dedication, hardness and footy nous. Exquisitely skilled and tough as nails, Brainy has built a career shutting down the opposition’s best small forwards, while simultaneously turning defence into attack with penetrating run off half-back. A humble champion who has the absolute respect of all at the club, congratulations to Michael on reaching this impressive milestone. Congratulations to St Kevin’s Old Boys Club favourite MATTHEW MURPHY on reaching the 200 game milestone. After finishing school at the College in 2005, Murph quickly found himself in the throes of Senior Football. A cheeky forward pocket, Murph’s energy was infectious and his goal celebrations quickly became a trademark. Over the next 12 years Matt dedicated himself wholeheartedly to his club, on and off field he has done everything in his powers to drive St Kevin’s Old Boys forward. In 2015, he deservedly achieved the ultimate team success winning the 2015 Premier B Grand Final. Congratulations on reaching the 200 game milestone. Very well deserved. This weekend the Marcellin Old Collegians Football Club will be celebrating the impressive milestone of 200 games for DANIEL ‘REDDAS’ REDMOND. After coming to the club in 2005 as a fresh-faced ruckman from the college, Reddas made his presence felt, dominating the ruck duties in the U19s side to ensure their premiership success. He tasted success again with a Reserves premiership and has made himself a fixture of the senior side in recent years culminating in a finish of runner-up in the club B&F in 2016. Reddas has long been a big presence at the club, both on field as a key ruckman for the seniors and as club treasurer. Congratulations on reaching 200 games and becoming the newest life member at Marcellin. Congratulations to GREG TOLSON who played his 200th game for the Old Camberwell in Round 5. Greg joined the Wellers U19s in 2004 under Anson Brownless and quickly made his Senior debut in 2006 where he has racked up 126 career goals. Greg is also great supporter of the club off the field and is a member of the committee and former secretary. Well done on reaching 200 games, Greg! Congratulations to SIMON LOWE on reaching his 150th game for De La Salle. Simon is part of famous De La Salle footballing family. Son of premiership skipper and coach Mark ‘Smacka’ Lowe and younger brother of previous club captain, Woodrow medallist and B&F winner David. Simon is an U19 and Reserves premiership player and Reserves skipper. A tough and versatile player, Simon is highly valued and popular clubmen and we look forward to many strong years ahead.

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GAMES

VAFA CONGRATULATES YOU IN REACHING THE MILESTONE

150

Congratulations LUKE WILLIAMS on reaching 150 games for De La Salle. Luke has been a four-time premiership player at the club, twice in the U19s and twice in the Reserves. Brother to Sam and Jake and son of premiership player and past president Richard, Luke’s senior debut in 2012 was the first time in its 60-year history that the club has fielded three brothers in the one senior team. A fine servant of the club, Luke is hard running midfielder with elite endurance.

100

JORDAN TOY plays his 100th game for Old Haileyburians this week, having joined the club in 2012. After a few seasons in the reserves Jordy really established himself in the seniors for the Bloods' 2015 premiership year. A quiet nature belies his bullocking play in the packs and through the midfield. That strength and a reliable left foot have seen Jordan develop as an integral part of the seniors, where he has been joined by younger brother Aaron, known together as the Toy Boys. Congratulations on 100 games, Jordan.

100

Congratulations to DARCY MEEHAN who ran out in the turquoise and silver for the 100th time last weekend against Fitzroy. Renowned on the field for a ’pug’nacious attack on the ball that has seen him win the 2012 and 2014 Reserves B&F. Darcy has also been a solid contributor at Senior level over the years. Off the field, in recent years, he has embraced the role of social secretary and was awarded the most Dedicated Monash Player in 2014. Well Done Darcy!

100

Congrats to St Bernards ISAAC MADDEN on his 100th Game. It’s been a long time coming for ‘Zac’ with a number of injuries and some overseas travel along the way. Zac played in the 2011 U19 Premiership and also made his senior debut in round 9 of that season. A hard running utility, Zac gives it 100% every time he hits the field and has earned the respect of his team-mates for his unflinching approach. Known as one of Bernards best clubman, we wish to congratulate Isaac on his 100th game.

Congratulations to St. Marys Salesian's TIM DUDGEON on reaching 50 games. A high quality midfielder, Tim is hard at the ball, a fine tackler and drives the ball forward with monotonous regularity. Tim is at his best when under pressure, often winning the hard ball and dishing out handballs through traffic to release teammates into space. Tim sets a wonderful example both on and off the field for St Marys.

Congratulations on playing 50 games for St. Marys Salesian, OLIVER BAXTER. A hard working utility who can play in a number of positions, Ollie is a very determined and a valued member of the playing group who always gives his best.

Congratulations to St. Marys Salesian cult hero, HARRY 'DIESEL' MEISELBACH. Harry is a hardworking defender who provides a terrific contest in his backline role and consistently drives the ball forward from defence. Harry is popular with his peers and does some of his finer work post-game on a Saturday night.

Congratulations to St. Marys Salesian's WILL DOUGLAS on recently playing his 50th game. Commencing as an under-age player, Will was a member of the Saints 2013 Under 19 premiership team. He is a strong and capable key position defender who works hard to win the ball and drive it forward. Will is improving with every game and as a good Clubman will be pushing for senior selection over the coming weeks. ROWAN MACKENZIE celebrates his 50th game for Marcellin this week after joining the club three years ago from the college. Rowan has made his name as a reliable and tough defender, breaking into the senior side in 2016 and cementing his place at full-back with an excellent B&F finish. Congratulations Rowan on your development over your 50 games, we look forward to many more.

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2017

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NEXT WEEKS GAMES - June 17 WILLIAM BUCK

Venue

Time

Collegians vs. Old Xaverians De La Salle vs. University Blues Old Melburnians vs. Old Trinity St Bedes/Mentone Tigers vs. St Kevins OB University Blacks vs. BeaumarisA8

Harry Trott Oval Waverley Oval Sportscover Arena Brindisi St Oval Melbourne University Oval