The Amateur Footballer, Week 1, 1997

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big welcome back to everyone for the 1997 ,~7Li season. It seems almost only'yesterday that ,we bid farewell to the 1996 season, yet here we are today welcoming in the 105th season of Amateur football .

I quite often refer to the VAFA as being a"sleepiing giant" within the Victorian football community 1- we are so big, yet we go about providing football for a great number of players at the lowest cos t possible without the fanfare that often accompanies football at the professional or semi-professional level . To one and all enjoy your season when all that is said and done we are involved, not for the personal gain but for the love of playing a game that is Australian and we have played for years and years because of the enjoyment it provides . Enjoy your year and if success comes the way of your club, it is the cream on an already tasty cake .

This year I have changed the title of this page from the "Editorial" to the above title . An editorial tends to necessitate a viewpoint or an Executive political stance being presented, however this year I hope that this column will not only present the Executive stance on various matters but will also inform and maybe even entertain on occasions . 速ne of the satisfying aspects to the off season has been associated with the appointment of a new umpire advisor . Brian Bulluss achieved much in his five year stint with the VAFA as the advisor and I take this opportunity of publicly acclaiming his vork - particularly in the areas of promoting youthful umpires who he and his panel had identified as having talent . Brian is replaced by a man that has impressed already by his determination, attention to detail and desire to lead from th e front . Michael Sneddon faces a most difficult year - the retirement of many key experience d umpires, whilst giving opportunity to many, leaves a vacuum of experience- as well as the continua l pire bashing that goes on which makes it diffi; cult to recruit numbers at our level . Good luck Michael . I hope that all followers appreciate the importance of the umpire in white and will display the tolerance that is often so missing at other 1ev-

els. Ask yourself the question - do you want your game umpired by one PHIL STEVENS umpire only, an offi- CHIEF EXECUTIVE cial because of his OFFICE R loneliness at being one out will mor e than likely be hesitant and unsure and not enjoy his day of umpiring? Contrast this with a game that has two, three, maybe four or more umpires who can work as a team with confidence supporting each other and providing the best possible overall control which gives confidence to all .

This year Quit begins its third year as major sponsor of the VAFA. When the VAFA was offered Quit sponsorship in 1994 for the 1995 season the short term goal was to carry out as many activities as possible that would enable Quit and the Association to be corporately aligned and fundamentally linked together .

Now that two year "bonding" period has ended .

Continued on Page 3

Editorial Se.ction A

INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Section B . . . . . . . . . . . ~ . . . . .4 Elstcrnwick Park Matches . . . .

Section C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Info Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

S<:itionb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Section E East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 0 Se et3 .on E Central --------------- 1 2 Section E South . . . . . . . . . . . . . lJnder-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Club XVIII Coaches' Clipboard . . . . . . . . . . .

Marketing News . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Looking Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Umpires' Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Pre m iership List . . . . . . . . . . . , .

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THE JOURNAL OF THE VICTORIAN AMATEUR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATIO N

April 12ti-1 ,1997

Price: $1 . 20 Vol . 97 No. 1

ine

A SECTION

by Jason Frenke l

ost of us have spent the last few weeks watching Mark Taylor eke out score afte r paltry score, but the select group of footballers who make up the A-Grade have been, or should have been, sleeping fitfully in preparation for long hours of pre-season training in readiness for today, Round 1 .

And what a round it is !

Two new teams, five new coaches, a new ground (Collegians at Harry Trott) and a new scribe for the A-Grade column - a lot has changed in the months since Old Xaverians' fairy-tale Premiership last September . I would like to bid farewell to Don Blackwood, whose insight into ASection football has graced this page previously . I hope I can maintain the high standard Don .

So what does 1997 hold in store? 1996 had all the twists and turns of a roller-coaster, and if that is to be any guide, tipsters will be the dark once again .

OLD XAVERIANS V ST BERNARD S

The Premiers come up against the gritty St Bernards side in a testing season opener for the Xavs . It's two premierships on the trot now, and no doubt coach Nick Bourke will be desperately chasing that elusive "three-peat" . If that's going to be possible, Old Xaverians will have to remain focussed in these early rounds, and Bourke will be hoping his charges don't repeat their disastrous 06 start to the season . It isn't the best way to start a title defence. The loss of promising youngster Dan Donati to AFL ranks will be felt up forward .

Garry Foulds replaces Shane Zantuck at the helm of St Bernards, and he will be looking to lift the side up a level in 1997. Bernards have a tendency to play their best footy when their backs are up against the wall - they need to play like winners rather than underdogs . When they're gritty and determined, they can match it with the best of them, but will need to add some polish to have a chance in 1997 .

COLLEGIANS V UNIVERSITY BLUE S Leigh Carlson and his charges open their campaign against the students at the 'new' Harry Trott . no doubt still feeling the pinch of a flag they might regard as 'the one that got away' . It is difficult to find fault with their effort last year, winning 14(-2) in fine style, but they will want to atone for a below-par performance in the Grand Final .

Should be competitive in 1997 .

Their opponents, University Blues, start the year with plenty of promis e and a new coach, Mark Tyquin. The Blues were finalists in '96, but never really showed enough fire to be a genuine threat, and were bundled out

by OM's in the lst Semi . Make no mistake though .

This team is blessed with a talented crop of young players who can form a polished, winning combination . Today's game should be a pearler .

OLD SCOTCH V OLD TRINITY

A tough encounter first up for new entrants Old Trinity, fresh from a dominating premiership year in B Section last season . Last year's victorious Captain - Coach, Simon Dalrymple, relinquishes the coaching duties to Bernie Dunne - it will be a big ask to match or better last season's effort of 15-3, but they will certainly be competitive in A Section this year .

Old Scotch, too, finished just out of the four last year, promising a lot and delivering a lot, but not on enough occasions last year to boost them into the finals . The acquisition of the Goldberg brothers, Phil and Brian, from AJAX will boost the Cardinals' on-ball division, while their teammate and 1996 C Section goalkicking winner, Andrew Kalinski, will offer another option up forward. Expect the Cardinals to make good on last year's promise .

OLD MELBURNIANS V DE LA SALLE Michael Ford replaces Sean Ralphsmith in the coaching position at OM's . Peter O'Brien won the Woodrow Medal in what was the highlight for the side last year, but their early season form suggested other rewards were on the way. It was not to be, but the Redlegs will be up there among the contenders with a shot again this year.

A difficult game first up for new coach Peter Hannan, who steps in to replace Mike McArt hurAll en down at De La Salle . Last season's ladder shows De La placed just out of the four, on percentage, but in reality they picked up a game (on a technicality) against Collegians, and were a notch or two off the pace in the wash-up. A win today would give them a lot of confidence to start the season .

OLD PARADIANS V OLD HAILEYBURY Runner - up in B Section last year, newcomers to A-Grade this year, Old Paradians, under the guidance of coach Dale McCann, draw a tough

"'1111c ,first up against the Bloods . They might have v«„ outgunned in the final analysis by Old d Prinit . but Old Paradians also had a pretty goo r last season and were streets ahead of the c;iher sides. They won't find the same luxury in AG rade• Tileir opponents, Old Haileybury, are now ~u clcr the instruction of Simon Meehan, who ,,{c,5 over Neville Taylor's position as coach after a brief stint with Old Xaverians last year . The pioods showed plenty of promise last year and ~• .r placed among the contenders until rd . 15, iclien they lost their way, the last three games, and a spot in the finals . Will be looking to cement a spot in the four this time around.

Good luck to all coaches and teams for Round 1 and indeed the rest of the season . Hope your team gets up on the day .

SELECTIONS : Old Xaverians, Old Scotch, Old Ivielburnians, Old Haileybury Continued from Page I = The time has come for the VAFA and its member clubs to demonstrate that the Quit message is having an effect on the health behaviour of the clubs, the players, officials and supporters of the VAFA. Quit knows that a number of VAFA clubs have no Smokefree policy,or if any, a rather insignificant and scant attitude to the prohibition or control of smoking in and around football clubs .

This year we need to stand up and be counted .

If the statistics demonstrated below do not show significant improvement VicHealth will not continue to allocate funding when it is having little or no effect .

For instance .

Only 15 of our 76 clubs (19.7%) actually had any form of a Smokefree policy last year - NO CLUB WAS TOTALLY SMOKEFRE E This figure is far lower than for any other VicHealth funded organisation - currently over 55% have some form of smoking restrictions and MANY ARE TOTALLY SMOKEFREE (25%) .

In 1995 25% of all VicHealth sponsored groups (all health messages and not just Quit) were totally smokefree .

8 1% of all Victo rian workplaces now ban smoking completely .

The point to be made here that policies are being implemented in all public places - even without VicHealth funding and that the VAFA is a long

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APRIL 19 - ROUND 2 UNIVERSITY BLUES v. OLD XAVERIANS OLD TRINITY v. COLLEGIANS DE LA SALLE v . OLD SCOTC H OLD HAILEYBURY v . OLD MELBURNIANS ST BERNARDS v . OLD PARADIANS

OLD XAVERIANS v . ST BERNARDS ( 2 .15 p .m. Start ) Field : M. Jackson, R . Eastwood ; Boundary: M . Meier; Goal : C . May, K. Segota. COLLEGIANS v . UNIVERSITY BLUES (at E.P.) Field: J . Toohey, D . Dalgleish ; Boundary: J . Stephenson . R . Muttins ; Goal : G . Beard, M . Frame.

OLD SCOTCH v. OLD TRINITY Field: S . McCarthy, A .

Damon; Boundary : C . Kealy ; Goal : B . Hoare, M. Lentini .

OLD MELBURNIANS v. DE LA SALLE Field: W. Hinton, H . Little ; Goal : D . Napoli, M . Venn . OLD PARADIANS v .

OLD HAILEYBURY Field : M. Gibson . G. Thwaites ; Goal : G . Grigg, A . Simpson .

way behind even though we promote the Quit message and receive funding .

The message is clear . We really must make up lost ground in this area . If we ignore the Quit messages, lose the major sponsorship and be forced to find the lost money from our clubs to make up the shortfall . Can your club find an extra $2000 easily to make up for this lost amount? We must be able to demonstrate behavioural changes which are of a significant nature to Quit by the end of this year.

To make the required foray into clubs easier Quit and the VAFA have introduced Smokefree Club Awards which will provide a first p ri ze of $1500, a second prize of $1000 and a third prize of $500 . Basically this competition will require clubs to introduce Smokefree initiatives and promotion of the Quit messages and to provide evidence from club level supporting Smokefree policies that the club has introduced this year. A future Marketing News page will be devoted in a future issue of the "Amateur Footballer" outlining initiatives that could be undertaken that would earn points going towards these awards . A number of clubs have already made a significant start in this area .

Best wishes to everyone for a g reat year ahead . I hope to see most teams play during the year and once again enjoy everyone's company in true Amateur footy spirit .

71

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B SECTION

by Terry Quirk

Welcome to another season of Amateur Football, a season that promises much excitement and hopefully many close encounters .

Best wishes to Old Trinity and Old Paradians in their endeavours to be successful in A Grade . The arrivals in B Section are Mazenod and Ormond from A Section and St Kevins an d St Kilda/South Caulfield from C Section.

Ormond will need all the spirit and endeavour that have been a trademark of the brown and blues to ensure there is no further slide . With the new coach, Greg Healy at the helm, I am sure the club will take on this latest challenge with success . With Paul Joy and Brett Davies returning and Shane Metz likely to play up forward, Ormond will field a changed line up if late permit applications are successful .

With Rob Prosser taking over as coach at Mazenod, the club will be keen to at least consolidate its place in B Section in the first part of the season and press towards a final four position later . The departure of 1996 Captain, Chris Be ll evill e, should be offset by youngsters Daniel Rigg and Dean Sehofield, making the big step .

The return of Chris Harrison from De La Salle will also be a bonus for the Nodders .

St Kevins arrive back in B Section hoping for another successful year that will at lest entrench it higher than mid field come finals time . The return of Marcus Olive from overseas will enhance its big man division, whilst big things are expected of several up and coming U19s . Coach Tim Hart is as keen as ever to take the SKOBS to greater success and I'm sure he will be keen to get the runs on the board early .

At Old Brighton, Dale Tapping, has returned to the Beach Oval to many new recruits and young players . Darren Tymms, Marcus Gordon and Matthew Jackson, are pulling on the boots for the OBs, whilst youngsters Kent, Brown, Dennis and Patterson will most likely make their names at senior level . Obviously Old Brighton has its sights set on A Section in 1998 after a very busy and rewarding off season .

Old Ivanhoe, with astute coach Kevin McLean in charge, will be relying on the return of 1995 Premiership players in George Haros, Matt Huber, James Weddle, Michael Karayannis and Cameron Moore, to help achieve the objective of appearing in the 1997 B Section finals series .

Recruits in Johnston, Warry and Jenkins . plus the development of younger players through the

reintroduction of the U 19s, should set solid foundations fo r a most successful season .

St Kilda/South Caulfield is back in B Section after only one season in the lower section . The Saints will have a good idea of what it takes for success this year and I believe much work has been done over summer to improve the playing personnel . Recent signing of Anthony Merri ck (Sandringham), Chris Neeson (brother of Simon), Anthony Mihaljevie (brother of Michael) and the return of Richard Gilmore and Ben King from overseas jaunts, significantly add to the players available to Terry Walsh. At full strength I expect the Saints to be most competitive and to make significant leeway in 1997 .

Therry Penola, after being swept aside in last years first semi have retained almost all players and are quietly confident of going all the way this year. Recruit Damien Rissardo (Myrtleford) and youngsters Sam Socco and Brett Crockford, should press for senior selection . The return of Terry Quinn as senior coach is another bonus for a club that should set the standard in this section .

Melbourne High School Old Boys, under new coach Warren Fail, have many new players and confidently embark towards much improved performances . Names including Robert Knowles, Shaun Morcom, Adam Watson and Steve Grimmer should appear regularly during the season along with several others who have returned to MHSOB after stints elsewhere . Anthony Cassell, Cameron Bruce and Adam Tilling, are youngsters who will press for senior selection ensuring that players who took the club to eighth position in 1996, are under pressure to improve significantly.

Banyule has called on the services of Harry Harisiou to take the club towards the B Section finals . With few departures and some fine young players coming through form the Warringal U19s, there is no reason not to expect improvement on the club's sixth position last year.

At Ivanhoe . things have been reasonably quiet in recent weeks with new coaching Doni Valkanis preparing his charges to take an early position in the four and stay there until finals time . Many players have now had a year of B Section experience and I expect the 'Hoers' to be right there at the business end of the season .

My Selections . . . .

Old Ivanhoe and Ivanhoe clash at Chelsworth Park in the local derby . I'll select Ivanhoe by 14 points to give coach Doni Valkanis, a great start to the season .

Mazenod an d St Ki1da/South Caulfield will be a 'big test for both sides . Mazenod will need to be in form but should prevail by 22 points.

Ormond an d MHSOB will clash in a match that should be the closest of the round . Avery keen and hard fought contest is as assured . I'll go for Ormond in a tight one by 7 points .

Banyule and Old Brighton will test each other early, however I'll select Brighton by 9 points in a match that could go either way.

Reserves Sections . . . Ivanhoe, St Kilda/Sth Caulfield, MHSOB, St Kevins and Old Brighton .

Best wishes to all players for an injury free season. Best wishes also to the men in white who I am certain will be treated with the respect they deserve .

Correspondents: by 5pm Monday. Fax & Phone 9889 9014 . Thanks for your help .

I APRIL 19 - ROUND 2

ST KILDA STH CAULF, v. OLD IVANHOE (E .P. 19/4) M H S O B v. MAZENOD O .C .

THERRY PENOLA OB v. ORMOND OLD BRIGHTON v. ST KEVINS IVANHOE v . BANYULE

ELSTERNWICK PARK DRAW 1997 Program (first part of season)

OLD IVaNRHOE v. IVANHOE Field : C. O'Donohue.

J . K .ins ; Boundary : D . Ryan, T. Healey; Goal: G .

Clancy, J . Pickett. MAZENOD v . ST KILDA STH CAULFIELD Field: G . Pritchard, P. Callil ; Boundary : M . Chapple, G . Miller; Goal : P . Allsop, S . Lamble . ORMOND v . M .H .S .O.B . Field: M .

Jenkins . C. Segota; Boundary : M . Jelinek ; Goal : K .

Coughlan, S . Ryan . BANYULE v. OLD BRIGHTON Field: M . Bushfield, A. Firley ; Boundary: B . Parks, R. Parks ; Goal: R . Miller, A . Miller. ST KEVINS v.

THERRY Field: M . Pinney, G . Hodgins ; Boundary : T. Dodds ; Goal: R . Richards, J . Robinson .

This Sat: Collegians v. University Blues This Sun: No match scheduled for E. P .

Next Sat: St Kilda Sth Caulfield v. Old Ivanhoe Next Sun : FIDA matchday at Elsternwick Park Sat . 28 April: University Blues v. St Bernards Sun . 27 April : Old Melburnians v . Old Paradians Sat . 3 May : Ivanhoe v. St Kevins Sun . 4 May : Old Trinity v. University Blues Sat . 10 May : Old Xaverians v. Old Haileybury Sun . 11 May: Mother's Day - no E . P. match Sat . 17 May : Old Paradians v . Old Xaverians Sun. 18 May: FIDA matchday at Elsternwick Park Sat . 24 May: St Kevins v . Old Ivanhoe

Sun . 25 May: Collegians v. Old Scotc h N11 L%

Clubs must phone final siren scores to Nancy 9528 3319 (before 5 p .m.) and the n Q/Q scores ; goalkickers and best players (both teams) to EP 9531 8333 (before 5.15 p .m .)

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* FIDA - Football Integration Development Association matches provide football for people with intellectual disabilities - this program is supported by the VAFA and VAFA sponsor Coles-Myer .

RE M E MB ER PATRONS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO BRING ALCOHOL INTO ELSTERNWICK PARK O R INTO ANY VAFA VENU E

n s Management

Managing, to make your money grow We offer facilities for Investment through : ~ Australian and International Stock Markets ~'f Australian Proper ty * Fixed Interest Markets For your current prospectus please call 1800 334 67 4 ' hr L smAdvarce MU6aunCnuyon>fbortxdeonaloxmeiladwdtoUrecuneN proep1us,dalediDecemEerl4fi .ThaWOaGetlufAesadfedl2nqrAhs . ThedaleieieneAtonwynWlglhetlale d lhear•.~%'A aas;r.~w- Tha qozpaqus Ays been bdgeE w8h Ihe AuUmken 6eaxa~ca Commsabn arrd s cop/ mn 6e oMnaned hwn youe erveslmeip ab.s.vr or,6Merxe Asse1 Manager„eM Lmded ACN 0~22 5]8 ~29 (AAMI . AAM 3 a I

C SECTION

by Russell Goul d

elcome to season '97 of C Section football . ~ As with all years, four new teams have entered the competition and of course four hav e left. Into the fray come, firstly from B Section, North Old Boys and Bulleen/Templestowe, both with new coaches and hopefully renewed enthusiasm. Also coming up from D Section are '96 Premiers, Monash Blues an d runners-up St Leos Emmaus Wattle Park .

Wholesale changes in '97 see six out of ten teams lining up with new coaches . Firstly to the newcomers . Bulleen/Templestowe have relieved the services of last year's coach Phil Maylin after what could only be described as a disappointing year . The lack of wins throughout the year must have been distressing for a team with such a high profile. This year one would expect them to turn things right around and new coach Andrew Smythe will be out to prove that they are definitely one of the teams to be reckoned with in C Section .

No rth Old Boys have also made some personnel changes after also having a poor season last year. They have employed the services of Frank Dunne ll as head coach . They really are in a similar situation to Bulleen after also failing to register more than a handful of wins last year . However new coach Dunnell is sure to whip his list of talented player into a fine side for this year, and surely they will not be easybeats this season .

After last years finals capitulation, AJAX have also made a change to their coaching staff. Phillip Aarons has taken over from Rodd Morgan and will be looking to '97 as a year to take the next step .

AJAX have been there and there abouts for the past few years and must be keen to make the most of a talented list of players . This year however they will find the competition much harder and will have to remain consistent throughout the season if they are to continue to make the finals .

Marcellin have also sought the services of a new coach, and Tony Paatsch was the man selected . Season '96 was a good one for the Eagles, although it did finish sourly . This year does however look to be a better one for them . After consistently finishing in the finals, only to be beaten one game away from the big one, the Eagles surely will be the most driven side in the competition and are sure to be a force this year.

Thomastown, after last years fine showing, have also gone with changes at the top . Long-time captain Tony Fellows has taken the reins and will

look to steer the Bears towards the finals . After being runners up to Hampton in D Section in '95, they came out with all guns blazing last year, taking it up to all teams and finishing just one game out of the finals . They are strong at home and fight when away, and with their inspirational captain now their coach, they will have another good year this year.

The St Bedes/Mentone Tigers have retained the services of coach Paul Beddoe for his third year of service . After a poor first half of the year last year the Tigers powered home to make a late finals run, only to falter in the final few steps . With a talented list of young players and some good established senior players, it looks to be a promising years for the Tigers.

Hampton Rovers are another team going with last years line up . Don Scarlett would have been pleased at best with the Rovers year last year . They managed to scramble a few wins here and there but were only just competitive with those teams above them . After a premiership in '95, and having found their feet in C Section in '96, they will this year be looking to consolidate themselves as a winning team, however hard it might be .

Old Mentonians were a big disappointment in '96. After coming down from B Section they struggled to be competitive and were lucky to avoid relegation for the second season in a row . Coach Bert Calvert bore the brunt of responsibility and so was replaced this year by Peter Murphy . They have a lot of experienced players on their list and if they can push some of their young talent through they may, like Hampton, go some way to improving on last years poor showing .

Now to last years D Section Grand Finalists .

Premiers Monash Blues spent just the one year in that section, and will look to consolidate in '97 .

Guided by David Rogers as coach, the Blues should provide a good showing this year, to prove their worth as a C Section side .

St Leos Emmaus Wattle Park are one of the teams that might struggle with the jump in class .

Coach Mark Flack though would not agree and will therefore look to put together a highly competitive side that is also deserving of its place in C Section .

Now to my predictions for Round 1 . 1 would expect AJAX to start off '97 with a win over Thomastown in a close affair. No rth Old Boys

should be too strong for a competitive Monash Blues at the University. Hampton Rovers to beat underdone St Leos Emmaus at Wattle Park . St Bedes/Mentone Tigers to capitalise on good preseason form and beat Old Mentonians in the local derby at Mentone . And finally, in what could be called the match of the round, Marcellin to defeat Bu lleen/Templestowe in a cracker of a first up clash .

Reserves winners should be AJAX, Monash, Tlampton, St Bedes/Mentone and Marcellin.

AJAX v THOMASTOWN Field: A . Chapman P. Buchanan MONASH BLUES v NORTH OLD BOYS Field: D . Anderson P. Coe Boundary: C. Nash ST LEOS v EMMAUS HAMPTON ROVERS Field : T .

Ovadia B . Tamblyn ST. BEDES MENTONE TGS v OLD MENTONIANS Field : B . Scmidt C . Keeton Boundary : R . Binding J . Binding MARCELLIN v BULLEEN-TEMPLESTOWE : Field : G . Curran C .

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APRIL 19 - ROUND 2 NORTH OLD BOYS v. A J A X HAMPTON ROVERS v. MONASH BLUES OLD MENTONIANS v . ST LEOS EMMAUS WP BULLEEN T'STOWE v . ST B'S MENT . TIGERS THOMASTOWN v . MARCELLIN

M ELEES - BE WA R E A melee is 'Where an incident takes place involving players pushing, scragging, jumping into packs, throwing each other to the ground o r other or other similar such conduct "

(presented by Quit)

C

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0

(50 cents per min .)

Information services available :

Monday to Wednesday : Information for Clubs Wed . evening to Thurs . evening : Permits processe d Friday (only) : VAFA umpire appointments & weekend match details Saturday evening (after 5 .30 pm) : Final siren VAFA score s

Advance Personal Banking Specialists in Residential and Investment Lendin g Contact V.A.F.A.'s own Mobile Lending Manager Marc Bullard- 0411 427 638

SECTION

by Peter Kelly & David Cook T his week sees the start of another Amateur season . D Section boasts what would appear to be the most even of all sections . 1996 saw thre e sides just miss a finals berth and at the same time avoid relegation . 1997 promises to be no different.

Wins will be sought by all clubs early in the season to establish momentum and gain an early advantage over competitors . From 1996 it boasts three premiership sides, five clubs who each won 10 or more games in D Section and two C Section clubs relegated with four wins each . Every club has had finals experience and tasted success in the last three years .

Recently contact was made with all clubs and here is a brief profile on each.

AQUINAS : Finished 3rd in 1995 narrowly missing promotion that season but atoned for that last year with a 6 goal win in the E East Grand Final to gain entry to D Section for 1997 . Coached by Andrew CROSBY who has a long association with the club and previous premiership coaching experience, the club is looking forward to great success this season. With great drive expected from the centre by Tarull i, Dunn and Coll iver another century of goals to Jason Livingstone is something rival clubs will hope does not recur. Jason is also the first 300 gamer at the Club which is a great effort . Although their past captain and ruckman have moved on recruiting has been good with a lot on the shoulders of Under 19 ruckman Garry Burch. The clubs pre season has been rewarding and their first match against a fellow E section premiership team at Old Essendon will be a good measuring stick for the season . The 'Captain' selects Old Essendon and 'Chocolate' Aquinas BEAUMARIS : A new senior coach in Brett MARCHANT will see a wealth of experience brought to the club . Brett has seven club B & F's with another local club Mentone and was also an inter league rep . in that comp . He spent time with Melbourne and moved to Maffra to finish his playing career. The disappointment of last years finals campaign will be the first target they seek to rectify. The club expects their best players Quinn, Riely, Rowbury and the Hanrahan brothers to again be match winners . Coupled with notable recruits Drew Johnson and the emergence from their juniors of some great young talent in David Eamauson and Paul McManus they eagerly look forward to the match of the day against Caulfield .

The 'Captain' selects Caulfield and 'Chocolate' Beaumaris in a very close game .

CAULFIELD : This club have decided that three years in the one section is long enough and they are more than ever desirous of returning to C Section . They have recruited very well over summer and with no significant player losses and the appointment of an experienced ex A Section coach in Geoff REILLEY are looking to a most successful season . Their practice match form has been very satisfying. The club have been a little guarded about most things in the off season however the spies report this is the club to watch out for. Their first game against Beaumaris being played at Glenhuntly is tipped as the match of the day. The 'Captain' picks Caulfield whilst 'Chocolate' selects Beaumaris.

OLD CAMBERWELL: Finalists in D Section in 1995 they were then one of three clubs who finished 1996 with ten wins, half a game out of the four and a game clear of relegation . Rod ALLISON, 35 years, has been appointed non playing coach coming from experience with the Ringwood and the Boronia clubs in the E .D .F.L . The club will miss their captain from last season Adam Kyriacou who has announced his retirement at this stage [?] . With Lethlean and Gladman tran sferring to Xavier, the club have worked hard to recruit and welcome Mick Free, U/ 19 competition B & F in 1993 back to the club and star recruit Peter Lodge from Forest Hill . First up game is away against Old Geelong with both the 'Captain' and 'Chocolate' going for OGS with the C Section experience being a deciding factor.

OLD ESSENDON : Have re-appointed Alex FRASER, 42, for his 4th year as non playing coach . The club are very pleased with the influx of a large number of ex students but will miss their two rovers McGee an d Capodiferro . The loss of the President to Western Australia also leaves a hole which the Club believes it has adequately filled .

Tipped to be continued improvers after their Premiership in E Central in 1996 they are at home to Aquinas in a battle against the premiers of E East. The scribes are divided with the 'Captain' tipping Old Essendon and 'Chocolate' Aquinas in what promises to be a most entertaining match .

OLD GEELONG: Mark NEELD has a wealth of AFL experience having played 90 games with Geelong and Richmond and is the only playing coach in the

,tion A teacher a on o D Section to ,J tile. club expect their relegation ., ""ry short. With only two players not returning last year the clubs' recruits, their coach and ,tc return of Grammar and Vdellsby, see them h a very experienced line up . Their first game is agauist old Camberwell and should see them off to g-iod start to the season with a win first up . Both scribes predict Old Geelong to be too strong for Old Camberwell at Como Park . gARKSIDE : Have re-appointed their coach Laurie iARAFA, 33, for his third season as non playing coach . With good practice match form they go into the season confidently looking to avoid the 1996 disappointment of missing a finals berth by half a game . An ex A Section side who arrested their slide in 1994 and have now consolidated in D Section they will miss 200 club gamer Sansonetti who has retired and Sherlock who is in "temporary" retirement. The club are very pleased with some big name recruits Duncan Tilley from West Gambier, Ian Gray and Mick Yandel from Fairfield and Mark Vita from Preston . They host St Johns in their first game, two clubs who have established a very friendly rivalry in a short time and look forward to kicking the season off with a win . The scribes are not as sure and both select St Johns in a very close game .

SALESIAN: Peter TURLEY enters his second year as coach after a successful assault on the premiership in E South from fourth . A non-playing coach at 28 with experience in the AFL (Richmond) and with the ex VFA club Oakleigh they look forward to continued success . Salesian report that no player has left the club and with a general influx of good recruits are looking forward to the influence on the ground of Club B & F Mick Hazel and regular stars Aaron Stevens and Simon Sutherland .

Their practice match form has been very good and will go into their home match against Whitefriars in a confident and determined manner . The 'naptain' selects them at home but 'Chocolate '

prefers ex C Grade side Whitefriars to win easily .

ST JOHNS : St Johns have re-appointe d Stephen MOONEY and know the experience in just missing finals last year and two recent Grand Final losses have given everyone associated with the club a sense of direction for 1997 . This growing club, who have over the summer negotiated a partnership with a well administered junior club in St Gerards, will give the finals a shake this season if the same disciplined approach that saw them finish last season is carried into this year . The club has picked up some very notable recruits from the Gippsland league and coupled with accomplished performers "Dicky, Platto, Kouta, Booka . Lardy and Bear" (like Caulfield didn't want to give to much away did they) are looking to their continued improvement . Still, with the determined players they have the club will miss competition B & F Mark Koppens who has moved with his job to the country and last years captain Dean Higgins who has been forced to retire due to a knee injury .

Dean has not been totally lost as he is now the reserves coach . First up is against Parkside with both scribes predicting a St Johns win in a torrid opening .

WHITEFRIARS : Des MEAGHER is in his third year and will be determined to return the club to C Section . His experience as a determined player, as most will know he played 190 VFL games with Hawthorn, should see the on field determination and improvement required to return quickly . The influx of Under 19 players from last years premiership team will add a touch of youthful enthusiasm and class to the club . The clubs first game is against Salesian with the scribes a little undecided when Whitefriars played all cards very close to their chest and provided no news on practice matches . The 'Captain' sticks his neck out and picks Salesian whilst 'Chocolate' decides Whitefriars' experience will be too great for the visit to Chadstone .

Continued on Page 1 1

J1

Jf 7

CAULFIELD GRAMM v BEAUMARIS Field : G .

Moore A . Ladd OLD GEELONG v OLD CAMBERWELL Field : D . Lane J . Stoppa SALESIAN OC v WHITEFRIARS Field, C . Stevens T . Foley PARKSIDE v ST. JOHNS Field : P. Simpson D . Kramer OLD ESSENDON v AQUINAS Field: V. Vescovi B .

APRIL 19 - ROUND 2 OLD C;,4IBERWELL v . CAULFIELD GR .

WHITEFRAIRS v . OLD GEELONG ST JOHNS 0 C v . SALESIAN 0 C AgUINAS 0 B v. PARKSIDE BEAUMARIS AFC v . OLD ESSENDON OR.

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E EAST SECTION

by Barry Hickey

Kn itwear he between season machinations, plottings, skuilduggeries, inticings, and hopefully imaginings are done, the chickens are about to roos t and be counted . The longships of A & B Section Vikings have returned to their winter fastnesses, laden with treasure from yet another successful summer by their raiding parties . I'm beginning to wonder about the 'meek inheriting the earth' bit of the greatest speech of all time, maybe it's time for us lower level fleas to do some serious burn biting .

So, seven of last years E Easterners remain to do battle with three new arrivals ; welcome to Syndal Ta lly-Ho, Kew and Hawthorn Citizens ; farewell to Aquinas (D Section), St Mary's (E South), and Swinburne University (E Central) .

Here's hoping 1997 is a good year for everybody on and off the field .

Based on information received from club contacts recently, the following are incontestable facts, (a) the 500 or so registered in E East are either now overseas, or about to go, (b) the few who will be playing the odd game this season will somehow lift their club's performance relative to 1996 results, (c) most clubs will have more numbers on their committees than on the field, and (d) on no account was any of the information given to be divulged for any reason whatsoever .

Notwithstanding the above, some predictions can be attempted . Yarra Valley, Old Carey, Chirnside Park, and Richmond Central should all be final four contenders . Eley Park won't be far away, and something would have to be seriously wrong for Kew not to start to turn things around .

Syndal Tally-Ho is the big smokey. so the result of their clash today with the Sharks will be awaited with anxious expectation by the whole of E East .

Bulleen Cobras could have been anything last year had they been more consistent, and there's no reason why they won't give a lot of cheek this season . All in all, it looks like a very even, very interesting time ahead for everybody . And the nod on the big mover for '97 Chirnside Park?

Eley Park play Syndal Ta lly-Ho at the Sharks' new home at Whitehorse Reserve . With a new ground and a new coach ( Graham Mullenger) the Sharks are looking forward to a good season, and believe they can improve on last year's creditable performance . Syndal Tally-Ho join us from the Southern League and are looking forward to a successful first year in the amateurs . Syndal's coach,

Daniel O'Donahue, is also new to that position and will b e anxious to make hi s mark. I'll go for the Sharks to win by 10p .

Yarra Vall ey host Old Carey at Domeney Reserve, in what is becoming a traditional first round fixture . Numbers and practice match results have been reasonable for both clubs, both of whom have new coaches, David Kyle at Yarra and Glenn Taylor at the C's . Sadly for the C's, many of the younger players they expected to have this year are pursuing their careers elsewhere . The C's have also yet to beat Yarra, so to tip them to win by 5 goals seems stupid, but them I am, and indiscretions are permissible this early in the year in what will be a very good game to watch .

Richmond Central are at home to Kew Amateurs and there's a strong probability the lights won't go out in the 2nd quarter today, the way they did during their aborted practice match last Thursday week . Both sides are confident of a good year ahead, the Central's have consolidated, Kew have some useful returnees to bolster them . If the weather's dodgy, Kew's running players should bring them in by a couple of goals, but reverse the tip if it's a calm, dry day . Both these teams will have a big say in the final four composition .

Eltham Co llegians play Hawthorn Citizens in an interesting encounter . The Collegians have a very young side and a new coach, Peter Slacik, and may take a while to settle in . Hawthorn Cits are hoping to do at least as well as Eley Park did last year coming out of Club VXIII's, and should be able to open their account by a few points margin .

Chirnside Park welcome Bulleen Cobras at Kimberley Reserve, and the Parkers are the tip to be the 1997 big improvers . Confidence is sky high under new coach Stephen Jones, and the Parkers have every club's dream, lots of numbers at training. The Cobras have also been blessed with a strong training contingent, and are confident that they will be less of an enigma than they were in 1996 . This will be a ripsnorter of a game, and I'll go for the home side by 2 goals .

Reserv es winners should be Eley Park, Yarra Valley, Kew, Hawthorn Citizens, and Richmond Central .

Correspondents : the Monday contact numbers are 9547 9144, and fax 9547 7764 .

APRIL 19 - ROUND 2

. ELEY PARK AFC ULD CAREY v . YARRA VALLEY OB v 1011 rj,,~yTgpRN CITIZENS v . RICHMOND CENTRAL BULLEEN COBRAS v . ELTHAM 0 C CHIRNSIDE PARK (BYE)

ELEY PARK has a bye YARRA VALLEY v OLD CAREY Field. G . Waldron RICHMOND CENTRAL v KEW Field : R . Sneddon ELTHAM HAWTHORN v CITIZENS Field : C . Cimoli CHIRNSIDE PARK v BULLEEN COBRAS Field : K . Walker

Congratulations to big'Swervin' on joining older (and wiser) brother Chief'Running Bear Bear' today in the illustrious 200 gainers club at Richm ond Central. Well done Merv, next stop 150 .

D$eetion - Continued from Page 9

reports to promote both your club and pS: To all clubs this weekly column is your chance to provide match Football . Use it to enthuse players and your club but provide information on the high standard of AmateurD Section clubs - are you able to identify by name BOTH keep the information up to your scribes . For all those will be judged on the fax time and date scribes 'Captain' and ' Chocolate'? A prize for the winning club whichsenders details on fax. Watch for a clue .

Please include club name and at Elsternwick suchfax is received for the season - here they are with all in alphabeteach week. Each club was asked to predict their finalists . order ical CAULFIELD OLD CAMB . OLD ESSDN. BEAUMARIS AQUINAS Aquinas Beaumaris Beaumaris Beaumaris Beaumaris Beaumaris Caulfield Caulfield Old Camberwell Old Essendon Old Camberwell Old Geelong Old Camberwell Old Essendon Old Geelong Whitefriars St Johns St Johns Salesian Whitefriar s

OLD GEEL'G PARKSIDE SALESIAN ST JOHNS WHITEFR'S Beaumaris Beaumaris Beaumaris Beaumaris Beaumaris Caulfield Old Geelong Old Essendon Caulfield Caulfield Old Essendon Parkside Old Geelong St Johns Old Geelong Old Geelong Whitefriars Salesian Whitefriars Whitefriar s The Captain selects : - Beaumaris, Caulfield, Old Geelong, St Johns .

Chocolate selects :- Beaumaris, Caulfield, Old Geelong, Whitefriars .

The total votes to each club selected to play in the finals series in D section results in the following table (total possible votes per club 12) .

CLUB Beaumaris Old Geelong

Votes 12

is proudly sponsored and printed by:

8

Caulfield . Whitefriars

7 eac h

Old Essendon, St Johns

4 eac h

Old Camberwell

3

Salesian

2

Aquinas, Parkside

The VAFA "Amateur Footballer "

1 each

P R E S S C Y 9 7 6 3 4 0 8 8

i; 째r-117i Z 711.,Ij-~l 14 PATRONS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO BRING ALCOHOL INTO ELSTERNWICK PARK OR INTO ANY VAFA VENUE

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M

E CENTRAL SECTION

by Mick Jame s

Central has seen an array of off field machinations in the lead up to season '97 . Most relevant to this column was the decision of Darren Briggs to move on leaving me to fill the shoes of the last Reds scribe the inimitable Peter Hill e .

Thanks for your efforts Darren and farewell also to Old Essendon who make the step up to D a move many up Keilor way must think comes a year late .

Better late than never . All the best to Alex Frazer and his charges who no doubt will do E Central proud . Welcome back to Uni Reds whose premiership hangover lasted through a winless season in D and welcome to Swinburne Uni who make the move from E East after a fruitless first year out of Club 18 .

Officials at every club are pretty coy at this time of year, except of course Tony Boyce, and they don't make grains of salt small enough to take Tony's comments with . So here goes a pretty ill informed guide for the season with teams in predicted order .

Williamstown CYM S With just one loss during the last regular season, Williamstown must be understandably disappointed to be in our company for another season .

It's hard to go past the bayside boys for the flag and few doubt they will again be the pace setter .

Uni Blacks Near enough wasn't good enough in a year the Blacks would have expected a quick return to D .

The move to Ransford Oval shouldn't prove too disconcerting and there's already talk that Simon Costell o's up to his usual no good with moves underway to rename the ground the Alan Mclean Memorial Oval .

West Brunswic k After a good start last year, the Magpies lost their way mid season only coming good when the horse had bolted . The lads from Western Oval will be looking for a taste of finals action this time around and they must be a chance to atone for opportunities lost .

Uni Reds

Wholesale changes at Brunswick St in the wake of a pitiful '96 nearly saw a merger with old foe UHSOB . The abdication of premiership president Paul White and his fiscal consort Leo Dynes saw some of the younger lights rally together to forge a new committee and a new direction .

Finalists in their last three seasons at this level, I expect the Reds to sneak into the August action in

a close fought battle for the last finals birth .

North Brunswick The Northerners will be knocking on the door this year (a prospect that'll send a shiver down the spine of anyone who's had contact with the lads from Allard Park) . For the purpose of this exercise I've got them slipping another notch after being front runners in '95 but you'd be mad to take them lightly and even if they don't take part at the business end of the season they'll have a big say in who does and in what sort of condition .

Old Westbourne The trip down the Geelong Rd should never be taken lightly and many sides will limp home from Werribee with lowered expectations . Hard times on the road could be the Westerners undoing again although an improvement in that area could put them in the running and turn the finals race on its head .

UHSOB A difficult off season at zooland makes it hard to tip big things from High but the palatial new rooms UHSOB will have all to themselves in '97 might gel well with new coach David Nash and a number of new faces at Brens Oval .

Whatever happens in the seniors the twos will be a five goal better side with Boycey on the field and could well provide the only finals action for the green and tans .

La Trobe Uni Perennial almost finalists the Trobers will have to make better use of the expanses at Bundoora if they're to improve on a disappointing'96 . Slow out of the blocks last year a good start will be crucial to Mario Bakogianis' charges chances of surprising this pundit and earning that long sought taste of the August action .

Swinburne Uni A tough time has been had since the move from Club 18 but a change of company may just be the thing for the other club from Glenferrie Oval . This scribe thinks not, but any improvement would be welcome and may be forthcoming as they come to grips with the new competition .

Round 1 The Reds slow pre-season has fallen together pretty well in the final weeks for the dynamic new coaching duo of Justin Doyle (Coach) and

;dichael Dexter Heenan (assistant) and I expect lfte boys from Brunswick Street to end that pre,n.iership hangover with a hard fought 9 point a1vay victory over the Magpies . in a make or break season for the once mighty Uni Blacks the phoenix will rise again to the tune of 20 points .

The Baysiders will prove six goals too strong at home for North Brunswick .

La Trobe will get the start they're looking for with a 45 point win over UHSOB .

Swinburne have the bye .

Club correspondants please contact me with your reports by fax 9243 4920 (until 5 p .m .

Monday), phone 9482 5492 (until 8 p .m . Monday) or email micj@netspace .net.au

APRIL 19 - ROUND 2

OLD WESTBOURNE AFC v. WEST BRUNSWICK NORTH BRUNSWICK v. UNIVERSITY BLACKS U H S O B v. WILLIAMSTOWN CYMS SWINBURNE UNI . v . LA TROBE UNI .

UNIVERSITY REDS (BYE)

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~-1 li Evcci

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DUTIES TO BE COMPLETED BY HOME TEA M Club XVIII and Reserve Section FINAL SIREN SCORES PHONE : 9531 8333 by 2 .30 p .m .

All Senior Sections and Under 19 Section s FINAL SIREN SCORES BEFORE 5 p .m .

PHONE : 9528 3319 / 9528 2471

;e 0 ! 111 I°

WEST BRUNSWICK v UNIVERSITY REDS Field : M. Gilday P. Tuppen UNIVERSITY BLACKS v OLD WESTBOURNE

[ 11 1

Field : R . Treverton L .

Gallagher WILLIAMSTOWN CYMS v NORTH BRUNSWICK Field: M. Whitman K . Brewer LA TROBE UNI v U.H .S .O .B . Field P . Leyden W.

A and B Sectio n Q by Q SCORES, GOALKICKERS AND SIX BEST PLAYERS (Both Teams ) To VAFA Administration by 5 .15 p .m.

PHONE:95318333

Simmons SWINBURNE UNI has the bye

SOUTHERN FM 88 .3 Phil Stevens or Brett Connell chat to John Kelly during his program "As the Mood Takes Me"

88 . 3 3 .30 p .m . Thursday

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Beiersdorf Australia Ltd

E SOUTH SECTION

by Ken Bremner & Tom 9rai n

~elcome to another "Bull Bursting", "Leather Kicking", "Air Conveyance" season . Thi s year the section reports will be handled by myself (Ken Bremner) and that "Doyen" of "Scribes", yes, the most respected! Tom Brain . Also, now that Tom is in harness with the Southbank Football Club you can be assured that our section will receive a better than normal coverage on the Sunday morning airwaves of radio station Southern FM, 88 .3 on your dial.

'Tis a pity that this report had to be in the hands of the VAFA Administration prior to the annual Members and Secretaries evening because it would have been a great opportunity to gauge the pre-season form or otherwise of the competing clubs . Mind you, history shows that a lot of Presidents and Secretaries tell 'Pork Pies' about their respective clubs' fortunes and chances based on trial games and form, let alone their new signings or losses . Makes for a great evening though trying to sift the 'Wheat' from the 'Chaff .

Forgetting all the hearsay and usual utterances of rubbish around the traps I suggest for round 1 Tom and I will just have a stab in the dark based on our prior knowledge of the competing clubs in the section . That way we can at least over the next few weeks let the 'ladder' sorts itself out and as they say let the 'cream' come to the top .

Preview - Round 1 April 12 St Mary's V ANZ Albert Park Neither team set the world on fire in '96 and both will be looking forward to a more prosperous season . Whilst ANZ have been a traditionally hard team to beat a their own 'dung hill their away record isn't so flash . Down in the valley at Glen Iris I confidently predict a 5 goal win for the 'Sainters' .

Now prove me wrong 'Zedders' .

Peninsula V Oakleigh Perennial finalists, Peninsula play host ~o Oakleigh in what appeals as a good game . Based purely on '96 form and the fact that the 'Oaks' have to travel 1st up we're on the 'Pirates' bandwagon to salute comfortably by 5 'twins' even without Drew Warne-Smith who we believe has moved to higher places starting with an 'A' .

Elsternwick V Monash Gryphons You can bet plenty that both these competing clubs will be hell-bent on winning their opening game for the season beacuse if they can't improve their stocks from the previous year then this might be their only chance . The 'Gryphons' improved as

the year rolled on in '96 and on the assumption that they will have improved further I'm gunna stick my noggin out and select them to 'cruise' on home victors by 21 pts . Disagree here uncle, the 'Wicks' pre-season has been one of their better ones and with Big Max at the helm again and Lethal on track and fit they could be a danger side .

St Pats Mentone V Powerhouse Looks a ripper game on paper and little appears to be separating them, again based on last year . However, this ain't last year and I can't select a draw (I suppose I could, but I won't) . Working purely on heresay, and yes I said previously I wouldn't let that sway me (but I write the column and you don't, so I can) I suggest that the home team St Pats will register win numero uno for season'97 by 13 pts in a tight struggle. I hear KB both have lost plenty so we need to wait a few weeks before forming a firm opinion but you can bet the Vultures will try and eat them dead .

Southbank V Glenhuntly Win 9, Lose 9 in 'D' grade and find yourself relegated can tear the heart out of a club. I'm proud to report that as President of Southbank Football Club it hasn't happened down 'Yarra' Park way .

The determination and resolve of the players since the commencement of pre-season and with an influx of new blood has made for a very strong combination . Only time will tell, how strong?

Glenhuntly from all accounts has awoken from their sleeping lethargy and will prove to be a measuring stick within the comp . The ingredients are here for a top showing, however loyalties sway me Southbank's way to get home winning by 18 points . Very conservative Mr Boss, I think my new and unknown to many original club (State Savings Bank) will win by a country mile and if we don't, you can dare me to do something .

KB's Selections: St Mary's, Peninsula, Monash Gryphons, St Pats Mentone & Southbank Tommy's Picks : St Mary's, Oakleigh . Elsternwick, St Pats Mentone & Southban k All Club Press Correspondents : Please fax a brief match report with best players to me (Ken Bremner) on fax number (03) 9850 6964 by midday on the Monday following the game . (Anytime Sunday would be good!)

Sacials As Mentioned, 'E' South will get a bit of a push' over the airwaves this year through the dulceL tones of 88 .3FM with Brain and Goodman . So it ~-ou have any events you want publicised, fax it Lo KB with your match report(s) .

APRIL 19 - ROUND 2 OAKLEIGH A F C v. ST MARYS MONASH BRYPHONS v. PENINSULA OB ELSTERNWICK v. POWER HOUSE GLENHUNTLY v. ST PATRICKS MENTONE ANZ ALBERT PARK v . SOUTHBANK CBA AFC

" il r:~~1 i! I ST. MARYS ANZ v ALBERT PARK Field : I . Cayzer At Burwood Reserve PENINSULA OB v OAKLEIGH Field: G . Wolter

ELSTERNWICK v

MONASH GRYPHONS Field : A. Keil

ST. PATS -

MENTONE v POWERHOUSE Field: P . Griffiths SOUTHBANK v GLENHUNTLY Field : S . Davie

The main gate (Glenhuntly Rd) is open every match day .

The rear gate (off St Kilda St) will only be open when Sunday matches are to be played . en parking in the area behind the grandstand please park in a manner that would allow cars around you to be able to leave .

Players and officials who do not produce tickets at the gates will be counted and the club invoiced accordingly .

Clubs are issued with an appropriate number of tickets for players and officials .

Flanagan

Drop -

ff Points "Amateur Frootballers "

"Amateur Footballers" will be delivered to the following drop-off points for at least the first 6 weeks of the season . Another opportunity will be given after this time to renominate a pick up point for "Amateur Footballers" . BEEHIVE HOTEL - Chirnside Park ; Kew ; Mt . Lilydale ; Old Geelong; Old Scotch ; Old Trinity ; Old Xaverians ; Richmond Central; St Leos Emmaus; Swinburne Uni ; Whitefriars . JOHN BELL'S HOME - Banyule ; Ivanhoe ; Old Ivanhoe ; Old Camberwell ; Parkside ; Thornbury Cougars ; UHSOB ; Warringal . MELBOURNE SPORTS BOOKS - Bulleen Cobras ; Collegians ; De La Salle ; Eltham ; La Trobe Uni; North Brunswick; Old Paradians ; Old Westbourne ; Peninsula ; Southbank ; Therry Penola ; Thomastown ; Uni . Reds ; West Brunswick ; Williamstown CYMS ; Yarra Valley.

All other clubs not listed above will have "Amateur Footballers" delivered to Elsternwick Park during Friday afternoon . Please not that requests for changes in drop-off points will not be entertained until further notice .

PATRONS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO BRING ALCOHOL INTO ELSTERNWICK PARK OR INTO ANY VAFA VENUE

CLUB WAREHOUSE Sports & Medica l Supplies

U19 SECTION

by Brett Connel l

elcome to the 1997 season to all (38) team s who will compete in the (4) U 19 sections thi s year. This season the VAFA U19 competition will be split into four sections namely 1, 2 and (2) Blue and (2) Red . With this new structure in place it is perceived that competition will be tight in each game and allow for great games of U 19 football to take place more readily than in the past . Good luck to all teams today, and on with my predictions for Round 1 .

Section 1 Old Brighton the reigning Blue Premiers host St .

Kevins the reigning White Premiers at the Beach Oval . The Tonners in any conditions are a tough ask at home and Leigh Bowes will be ensuring that they begin their Section 1 season on a high note . New SKOBS coach Brendan Mill er will not take this match lightly but the Tonners at home will win . De La Salle host the might of Uni. Blues at home and despite all of Clay Waser's coaching guile the Blues will prove too strong . St . Bernards play host to Old Carey in what will be a fast and skilful game of football, the Bernards are tough to beat at home, and although Peter Schiller's boys will give it their all the Bernards will take the points . Old Melburnians and Mazenod clash at Oval No. 1 Albert Park and both Mark Zuker (OM's) and Kevin King ( Mazenod) will be keen to see their respective teams get off to a good start in 1997 . For mine the OM's but only by a whisker . In the final match Old Xaverians travel to Bundoora where the Old Paradians will cause the upset of the round by knocking off the reigning Section 1 Premiers .

Selections : Old Brighton, Uni . Blues, St .

Bernards, Old Melburnians & Old Paradians .

Section 2 Andrew Tsindos' Old Camberwe ll play host to Williamstown CYMS and with both teams proving to be strong performers in 1996 the match should be a beauty . Williamstown will prove the better team today and begin the season off on the right foot . Whitefriars and Warringal clash at Donvale and although a fine side in 1996 Whitefriars will find Warringal too strong today . Uni . Blacks and Old Scotch meet at the Crawford Oval and given both sides solid performances last season it would suggest that nothing will separate them today . Old Scotch but only just . Beaumaris host Co llegians at Banksia Reserve in what will be a game worth watching. the Sharks at home are a formidable

opponent, however the Lions will get the points today . Marc ellin and Old Haileybury will clash at Bulleen and my selection is the Eagles comfortably.

Selections : Williamstown, Warringal, Old Scotch, Collegians & Marcellin .

Section (2) Blue AJAX play host to the newly reinstated St . Bedes Mentone Tigers at the Gary Smorgon Oval Albert Park . In a toss of the coin the Tigers should win and open their account for new coach Brian Bourke . Hampton Rovers await Ormond at David Street and will be keen to open their account against their local rivals. Paying at home and under the guidance of new coach Edi Meinjak the Rovers will take the points . De La Salle (2) an d Old Geelong clash at TH King Reserve in what will be a battle of two even teams with two new coaches at the helm Tony McNamara ( Old Geelong) and Rob Smith (De La Salle) . At home the D's to kick off their season with a good win . MHSOB another new team in 1997 host the Old Xaverians (2) at South Yarra . MHSOB coming off a strong showing in the U19 Lightning Premiership where they were the eventual winners will prove far too strong for the Xavs today . Monash Blues have the bye due to Caulfield Grammarians late withdrawal from the competition .

Selections : St . Bedes Mentone Tigers, Hampton Rovers, De La Salle ( 2) & MHSOB .

Section (2) Re d Therry Penola open the season by hosting Old Paradians (2) and will win comfortably setting a trend of winning early, which will no doubt please new coach Paul Matton. St Leos Emmaus VIP host Old Trinity at Bennettswood and in what will be a fine game of U19 football the Combine will scrape home after an even first (3) quarters .

Chirnside Park host Aquinas in the local derby and with both sides expected to improve on last year this match will be close all day . In a toss of th째 coin the Parkers to prevail in a tight contest .

No rth Old Boys host newcomers Old Ivanhoe at the Alec Gillon Oval and although a new side in the 'Hoers will prevail and begin Stuart McLean's U19 coaching career off on the right foot. Yarra Va lley cool their heels with a bye .

Selections : Therry Penola, St . Leos Emmaus Wattle Park, Chirnside Park & Old Ivanhoe .

SECTION 1

APRIL 1 9 - ROUND 2 SECTION 1 UNIVERSITY BLUES v . OL D D A SIAL EON OLD CARE Y MAZENOD 0 C v . ST BERNARDS . OLD MELBURNIANS OLD XAVERIANS V . OLD PARADIAN S ST KEVINS v SECTION 2 WARRINGAL A F C OLD SCOTCH COLLEGIAN S OLD HAILEYBURY WILLIAMSTOWN CYMS

v . OLD CAMBERWELL v. WHITEFRIARS v. UNIVERSITY BLACKS (venue to be advised) v . BEAUMARIS A F C v. MARCELLIN

SECTION 2 (BLUE) AJAX(BYE) ORb40ND OLD GEELONG OLD XAVERIANS (2) ST BEDES MENT . TIG .

v. MONASH BLUE S v. HAMPTON ROVERS DE LA SALLE (2) v . MHSO B

SECTION 2 (RED) OLD PARADIANS (2) OLD TRINITY AQUINAS 0 C OLD IVANHOE OR .

v. YARRA VALLEY v . THERRY PENOLA OB v . ST LEO'S AMMAUS WP v. CHIRNSIDE PARK AF C NORTH OLD BOYS (BYE)

OLD BRIGHTON v ST. KEVINS Field: D . Pieris Leo Wilson Goal: S . Rolls David Murray DE LA SALLE v UNIVERSITY BLUES Field: A . Stephen N McCorquodale Boundary : P . Burg Goal : Robert Seymour John Finn ST. BERNARDS v OLD OLD MELCAREY Field: S. Lugowski G . Gioras BURNIANS v MAZENOD Field : B . Allen D . Ischia OLD PARADIANS v OLD XAVERIANS Field: K .

McMahon A . Flack

SECTION 2 OLD CAMBERWELL v WILLIAMSTOWN CYMS Field : G . Kelly G . Brereton Goal : Robert Dunstan: Bernie Dix WHITEFRIARS v WARRINGAL FieldD L . Barnett P . Bailey UNIVERSITY BLACKS v OL SCOTCH Field: M . Allen T . Moore BEAUMARIS V COLLEGIANS Field: N . Evans R . Divine MARCELLIN v OLD HAILEYBURY Field : J . McGauran A. Scherini SECTION 2 (BLUE ) AJAX ST BEDES v MENTONE TGS Field: S .

Mannix A. Harris MONASH BLUES has the bye HAMPTON ROVERS v ORMOND Field: R. Marlyn D . Blackburn DE LA SALLE (2) v OLD GEELONG Field : S . Harrison G . Skandamura MHSOB v OLD XAVERIANS (2) Field R. Love

SECTION 2 (RED) THERRY PENOLA v OLD PARADIANS (2) Field M .

Forde ST. LEOS EMMAUS v OLD TRINITY AT 1 .00 p .m. Field B . Corcoran CHIRNSIDE PARK v AQUINAS at 1 .30 p.m Field F. Karabelas NORTH OLD BOYS v OLD IVANHOE Field A. Carrick T. Carrick YARRA VALLEY has the bye .

fr`d PATRONS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO BRING ALCOHOL INTO ELSTERNWICK PARK OR INTO ANY VAFA VENUE 17

ME

Winning Edge Presentations

CLUB XVIII SECTION

by Norm Nugen t

~nother season dawns with each club optimistic of success at Elsternwick Park i n August. Today we welcome Mt Lilydale to th e VAFA as well as Monash Whites and Thornbury Cougars to Club XVIII . They join fourteen old friends in the new Club XVIII format which will involve some sides in more travel than they have experienced in seasons past . Sadly WT, Old Ivanhoe an d North Old Boys will not participate in Club XVIII in 1997 while Hawthorn Citizens have joined E East .

SECTION 1 .

Old Brighton Bloods should be able to commence their second season under hyphenated banner, with victory over St Kevins, who, even though their club is on a high, may lack the talent to match Old Brighton Bloods who play Brighton Beach Oval so much better than do most of their visitors .

Last season's South Preliminary finalists Be La Salle and Old Scotch meet at Malvern. Although Old Scotch are notoriously slow starters I sense they will field the more settled side and therefore I expect Old Scotch to win narrowly .

Mazenod must make the long journey to meet St Bernards, at West Essendon . The Saints will be buoyant as their 1996 North Premiership pennant is unfurled . Added to this adrenalin rush will be their enormous home ground advantage which I expect will give St Bernards a decisive victory .

Albert Park neighbours Old Melburnians and Collegians meet on the former's ground . Success in Amateur Football is often ephemeral so the better success rate of Collegians in 1996 may not benefit the Lions in 1997 . Nevertheless Collegians remain my selection today .

Reigning Southern Premiers Old Xaveri ans have the bye .

SECTION 2 Amateur Footbal l spreads further eas t today when Mt Lilydale debut . Their visitors today, Kew, experienced their worst ever season in 1996 and given the difficulties the less successfu l clubs have recruiting players I believe the enthusiastic debutants, in front of their home crowd, will commence in the VAFA with a victory .

Therry Penola, who have always proven hard to defeat at home, host Old Essendon Grammarians who failed to win a match in 1996, their first in the section - although I expect Old Essendon to show improvement in the wake of their club's rise to D section, Therry Penola are my selection to win today.

Old Geelong travel to new territory when they visit Thornbury Cougars, who join the Club XVIII from E Central Section . Last season although the Cougars suffered some heavy defeats, they did produce some excellent pieces of play . Over the years Old Geelong have remained an enigmatic team whose form has revealed marked fluctuations . As I am unsure of comparative player strength, I am following my hunch by selecting Thornbury Cougars to win .

Monash Whites, who rejoin the section today, face a "long march" to Bulleen to play Marce ll in, who performed so admirably during 1996 . 1 feel confident Marcellin, under their new management, will again prove a force in the competition .

Conversely Monash players' thoughts will have been far from football as they settled into their academic year . Greater fitness, plus home ground advantage leads me to select Marcellin.

3 I " ' 31" 1 . G

SECTION (1 ) v . OLD BRIGHTON BLOODS OLD SCOTCH v. DE LA SALLE MAZENOD 0 C v. ST BERNARDS COLLEGIANS (venue to be advised ) .

OLD MELBURNIANS OLD XAVERIANS v ) ST KEVI NS (BYE

Every second Saturday morning Phil Stevens talks to Larry Stephens an d Adrian Hook

SECTION (2 ) OLD ESSENDON v . SYNDAL TALLY HO MT LILYDALE THERRY PENOLA OB OLD GEELONG v . KEW A F C MONASH WHITES v . THORNBURY COUGARS MARCELLIN (BYE )

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COACHES' CLIPBOARD AFC AFA

YOUR COACHES ASSOCIATION - IT'S AI MS AND ROLES Brief Histo ry Some years ago Australian Football saw the need to develop a Coaches Association known as AFCA (Australian Football Coaches Association) .

Amongst AFCA's aims was not only to have a powerful voice at the AFL elite level but to promote coaches associations at the various lower grades of football in all states . The VAFA formed its own Coaches Association in 1991 known as AFCA/VAFA .

Aims of AFCA/VAFA The main aims of your Coaches Association is to assist VAFA coaches by supplying information and support in various forms and to also represent your views to the controlling AFCA body . The AFCA/VAFA now also have an active role in the VAFA onfield Rules Review sub-committee so that coaches views are put forth along with the views of umpires and football administrators .

Structure of AFCA/VAFA President : Mike McArthur-Allen Vice President : Kevin McLean Secretary: Brett Connell Sectional Representative s A Section : Nick Bourke (Old Xaverians) B Section: Harry Harisiou (Banyule) C Section: Don Scarlett (Hampton Rovers ) D Section : Geoff Reilley (Caulfield Grammarians) E East Section : Glenn Taylor (Old Carey ) E Central Section : Garry Connolly (Uni . Blacks) E South Section : Gary Ryan (Monash Gryphons) U19 Sections : Tim Killworth (Collegians) & Brett Connell (VAFA ) Co-opted members : Barry Aleaxander, Dave McCormack, John Simpson, George Voyage & John Keenan What AFCA/VAFA can offer you Coaches Support Coach Aide : This service is offered to clubs who may because of various reasons require ; (1) A temporary fill-in coach during the season because of illness, work commitments etc . (2) An experienced ex-VAFA Coach to assist the club with specialist training sessions, coach assessment, training drills etc . ( 3) Coaches Development Seminars : During 1995 and 1996 AFCA/VAFA have hosted some extremely well run and organised coaches development seminars at Richmond . Essendon 20

and Carlton Football Clubs . These were great evenings and well supported by VAFA coaches .

During 1997 at least (3) development seminars will be conducted and clubs will be advised about these in due course .

Coaches Libra ry VAFA coaches can contact Brett Connell at VAFA Administration to borrow books and videos to assist with coaching and training techniques .

Although our stocks of these resources are still limited our library is expanding constantly .

Coach Accreditatio n The VAFA currently runs a very successful Level 1 Coach Accreditation course on an annual basis . We can also assist with Level 2 and 3 coach accreditation enrolments . The AFCA/VAFA has an excellent "Guidelines for conducting a Coaching Interview" and "Performance Planing Review" publication available to club administrators as well .

This is invaluable to clubs when appointing a new coach .

Legal position of VAFA Coache s Your AFCA/VAFA committee are currently investigating this important issue and have gathered some excellent advice on this subject . In the near future AFCA/VAFA will release an information sheet for coaches and clubs on this topic .

Coach-of-the-Month / Coach-of-the-Yea r AFCA/VAFA evaluate on a monthly basis the performance of VAFA coaches over all grades and nominate a Senior and U19 Coach-of-the-Month.

At the end of the season AFCA/VAFA nominate the AFCA/VAFA Senior and U19 Coach-of-the-Year, and winners of these awards are then nominated to AFCA Vic . for the state awards in each category .

Annual AFCA/VAFA Coaches Dinne r

In 1996 we hosted our first AFCA/VAFA Coaches Dinner with Michael Malthouse our special guest speaker . We intend to hold our 1997 dinner mid season and you will be advised in due course on this.

Coaches Clipboard A weekly article appears in the Amateur Footballer written by both AFL and VAFA coaches .

Excellent motivational and informative articles appear and it is informative reading for club administrators and coaches .

6Ti

Summary The AFCA/VAFA committee offer invaluabl e services an d advice to club administrators and coaches . Please have no hesitation in contacting your sectional representative or Brett Connell if

you have any queries regarding AFCA/VAFA resources or services . The more knowledge we exchange will make the VAFA a better coached and stronger association .

Don Scarlett, Senior Coach Hampton Rovers, C Section Representativ e

Ci1u' 10 1 ~4~lJOi7~s3'~ 504 BRIDGE ROAD .

RICHMOND . 312 1 6 .25 p .m. Saturday

Hugh Lyon Knitwear

PH: 9425944 FAX: 9427 1974

MELEES - BEWAR E A melee is "Where an incident takes place involving players pushing, scragging, jumping into packs, throwing each other to the ground or other or other similar such conduct "

RUNNERS, TRAINERS, WATER CARRIER S The Chairman of the Umpires Committee addressed all umpires on Thursday night in relation to the correct attire and expected behaviour of all water carriers and runners on the field Umpires have been instructed to inspect all runners and water carriers uniforms before matches and if not up to standard the official is to be told he/she is not able to take the field until attired correctly .

Behaviour - Runners . To deliver message from coach only and immediately leave the arena. Water Carriers . Not to deliver messages from coaches . Not to linger on the field of play .

To deliver water only during a break in play or to players behind the passage of play . Trainers .

May carry water if team short of water carriers . Otherwise can only enter field when a player requires medical assistance . Cannot deliver message from coach .

Att ire - Runners. VAFA jade top and VAFA club white shorts .Track pants if worn to be navy only. Water Carriers . VAFA gold top and VAFA white club shorts .Track pants if worn to be navy only. If runners or water carriers wear bike shorts they must be VAFA flesh colored tights only . No other garment is to be worn under the green or gold top . Trainers . VAFA white/blue top with navy blue track pants . If not VAFA top a plain white top only .

Caps - if worn must be purchased VAFA Properties only .

MARKETING NEWS

by Phil Steven s

wo exciting competitions this year will give VAFA clubs an opportunity to earn cash or products .

Firstly the BLADES CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP TABLE . $1500 will be paid t o and the club who wins this championship . Points are awarded each week for wins by each of a club's teams ; bonus points are awarded toward the end of the season depending on the number of players wearing Blades boots . As a bonus should all teams of one club register wins in the one round (NB a club must field at least 3 VAFA teams) the player named as the senior team's best player in the "Amateur Footballer" will receive a complimentary pair of Blades football boots - if a player has previously won a prize next time the prize goes to the player named second best etc . ) Points will accumulate in the following way 8 points - senior team win ; 2 points - reserve team win; 5 points - U 19 team win ; 2 points - Club XVIII team win ; 6 bonus points - if 4/4 teams win ; 4 bonus points - if 3/3 teams win ; 2 bonus points - if 2/2 teams wi n A table will appear each week in the "Amateur Footballer' showing the leading 20 clubs . The table will

s BLADES CLUB CHAMPIONSHI P CLUB

TOTAL

SEN RES

U19

C1S

B 4/4

B 3/3

B 2/ 2

~ As a result of the following clubs teams all winning last round the following players have won a pair of Blades football boots :-

< NAMES OF PLAYERS > ADVANCE BANK "HIT THE SIGN" COMPETITIO N A tall sign has been erected behind one of the goals at Elsternwick Park . The number of times that this sign is hit when a goal is scored in senior games will be ta ll ied by the scoreboard operator. The prize for the club that hits the sign the most number of times during the season wi ll receive 25 pair of team shorts compliments of Advance Bank for the 1998 season .

TOTALLY INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL PLANNING "LUCKY $$$ NOTE " All present at the Sponsors' Night were given an original $1 note . The serial number on this note if chosen entitled the bearer to a $500 investment portfolio with TIFF. The winning note for round 1 is DBL 496 590. The next lucky number will be drawn and advertised in the "Amateur Footballer" round 12 July 5.

This season the VAFA and the Blood Bank have joined forces in an attempt to raise awareness and increase donors from within the VAFA network . "Captain Bloods" will be appointed at each club to help liaise with the Blood Bank . The "Captain Blood" registration forms received by April 4th went into a draw for a $100 voucher from Rebel Sports . The winner is Gerard Roche from Monash Gryphons . The VAFA looks forward to every club's support of this community oriented venture during season 1997 .

NEXT WEEK'S MARKETING NEWS "HOW YOUR CLUB CAN WIN $10,000 THROUGH THE SPORTSCOVER/ADVANCE BANK PICK THE PREMIERS COMPETITION .

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Product Informatio n

(03) 9764 SM

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17 L

LOOKING BACK

by Noel Rundl e

ROUND 1- 5YEAFaS AGO - 1992 fl~Aelebrations . The Centenary Year of the Association commenced in the Long Room at the Melbourne Cricket Ground with the new Great Southern Stand providing the perfect backdrop .

MCC President Dr. Don Cordner and AFL President Ross Oakley combined to launch the Association's history, "For The Love Of The Game" written by Joseph Johnson, a magnificent record of the 100 years of Amateur Football and its role in Melbourne life.

It was the year of The Premier's Cup which ended on the Saturday prior to the season opening when VFA's Werribee defeated the VCFL's North Ballarat. De La Salle represented the VAFA and those present at Frankston witnessed a superb game in which De La went away to a long lead against VFA's Dandenong only to see that team get up in the last minutes of an incredibly long quarter.

Major changes to our rules for the season were the change of the 50 metre penalty to a 25 metre penalty and the abolition of the line across the centre circle .

We welcomed three new representative coaches : Barry Richardson (senior coach), Ken Bremner (C-G Section coach) and John Simpson (U19 coach) .

To recognise our Centenary Year and to put Amateur Football on show before the local football public, the VAFA Senior Team would play South Australia on Queens Birthday at Waverley Park as a curtain raiser to the AFL game Hawthorn versus Adelaide.

Melbourne University Football Club honoured the loss of Harry Sharpe, life member, Reds Official and ever present supporter.

VAFAUA office bearers for the season : President Mike Murray: Secretary Andrew Belcher ; Treasurer Stephen Hopper .

Welcome to new Umpires' Advisor, former VFL umpire . Brian Bull uss .

10 YEARS AGO-198 7 It was a new coaches' year in "A" Section, Don Davenport (Old Scotch), Danny Corcoran (Old Xaverians), Graeme Jacobs (Bulleen-Temp), Stephen Rae (De La Salle), and a return for former coaches Peter Chisnall (Caul . Grammarians), Alan Salter (Uni . Blues) and Don Martin (North Old Boys) .

1986 "A" Section premiers Co ll egians and "B" Section premiers Old Paradians met in the opening game with Old Paradians powering away in a final 11 goal quarter to win 24 .13 (157) to 12 .8 (80) .

Their 1986 premiership teams were as follows : COLLEGIANS

B :Laussen, Pollock, Irvine HB :G . Parsons, Schober, S . Hinchen (C) C :Tregear, Kahn, A . Ingleton HF :Hoyle, Newman, Roberts F :Lemon, R . Herman, S . Bickford R:S. Williams (VC), I . Herman, K. Parsons IC :Baum, Wolf Coach :Bruce Ferguson OLD PARADIANS

B :S. Exton (C), Pritchard, Nelson HB :Wood (VC), McCann, M. Considine C:B . Exton, P. Fahey, Busch HF:Powick, Skerritt, P. Considine F :Heffernan, Way, Corcora n R :Grills, Spillane, Rae IC :Atta, Powell Coach :Gerard Sholly Next week I will let readers know how many of the 1986 premiership players lined up in the first round of 1992 . Just to sharpen your wits : 1 . What are the 1986 coaches doing in football in 1992?

2 . How many of the 40 footballers went on to play VFL football?

3 . How many had previously played VFL football?

New clubs admitted were Aquinas OC (F) , Bloods and Port Colts (G) and Richmond Central (H) .

In the first issue of 1987 the following article appeared to describe the birth of Richmond Central: RICHMOND CENTRAL FOOTBALL CLUB (How it started )

Talk of a proposed Football Club was held at Cricketer's Arms Hotel in Richmond by George Paras an d Doug Egert on on Wednesday June 25 1986 .

Nothing really eventuated until a meeting with the VAFA new clubs committee was organised for Wednesday August 13 at Elsternwick Park attended by George Paras and Mike Coulsell . After discussions with the new clubs committee it was decided to name the side Richmond Central as the

majority of the players are Richmond supporters and have been attending Richmond matches for several seasons; also Richmond Central is the primary school attended by George Paras from 1967 to 1972. To get this side off the ground it was decided that the three main tasks were players, money and having a ground .

For the next couple of months Richmond Central rennseveral players, and also got a $1400 by delivering yellow pages g ground, being Swinburne Technical Junior Campus .

On Wednesday, February 11, George Paras (President), Steven Regester (Secretary) and Mick Alevras and David Jiggins (Selectors) met with VAFA General Manager Peter French and new clubs committee John Miles and Ray Walsh and was admitted to the VAFA competing in "H" Section .

The first training run was on Tuesday January 13 held at Burwood Heights High School . Three practice 'matches held so far have been against Eltham College, GTV9 and Monash Whites .

On Friday March 27 it was decided that the Richmond Central Football Club be incorporated .

Hopefully by the year 1997 you will be publishing in the "Amateur Footballer" that the Richmond Central Football Club Inc . is ten years old fielding a side in " Section .

George Paras President ~ Well, George, you haven't made it to "A" Section but your club has been a credit to the Association .

15 YEARS AGO-198 2 North Brunswick hosted a Lightning Premiership which was won by the host club who defeated West Brunswick in the final 8 .4 (52) to 3 .6 (24) . Senior umpires Cliff Mead and Brian Goodman officiated . ' Collegians signalled their return to "A" Section with a very easy victory against Old Xaverians 19 .17 (131) to 8 .16 (64) . Best were Hoyle, Wi lliams, Hinchen (Coll.) and Atkinson, Thomas Call (Old Xav .) Hannah kicked 5 goals for the winners .

Old Melburnians welcomed Laurie Aghan as senior and reserves coach for 1982 .

Simon Williams and Chris Warner played their 50th games for Collegians and 150 games to Dick Clarke (Parkside) .

Quoting for the Old Ivanhoe Press Correspondent, the club congratulated All an "Snapper" Haug on playing his 250th game joining Doug Cuttriss as the only Old Ivanhoe player to have reached that magnificent milestone .

"A" Section umpires for the opening game were J. Segota, W. Henry, C . Mead, T. Flannery, B. Goodman, W . Hinton, J . Horwood, R . Morgan and J. Smith .

Closest game for the day was in "B" Section where St Bernards defeated Alphington 12 .24 to

12 .23 with the best A. O'Brien (5 goals), Angel, Mulckearns (St Bernards) and Hockins, Pickett, Bradley (Alphington) .

20 YEARS AGO-197 7

De La Salle won the Lyon Bros . Perpetual Trophy at the Inaugural Amateur Olympics sponsored by Ivanhoe Amateur Football Club on Sunday 6 March. 13 clubs were represented . Was this age or fitness? The umpires team finished 12th .

Kevin "Dad" Drinan (St Kilda CBCOC) finally reached 150 games-spread over 9 seasons in which Kevin has won 3 club Best and Fairests .

200 games to Max Johnston at UHSOB-a club Best and Fairest and also "C" Section Best and Fairest when he scored 10 first votes!

Marcellin OC, having won "B" Section premiership in 1976 from fourth position, made their first appearance in "A" Section when they played "A" Section 1976 four team Uni Blues and were on top all day to win by 19 points . Best were Dill on, Crimmins, Car ru can, Cullinan (6 goals) for the winners while veterans Standish, Church and Hager starred for the Blues .

Old Xaverians celebrated their promotion to "C" Section with a 73 point win over Hampton Rovers .

Commonwealth Bank player Tony Borrack completed an unusual feat by having now played in every section of Amateur football as well as representing Victoria in Amateur football . (Can readers give me names and details of others with comparable records?) .

25 YEARS AGO-1972 Mrs Norma Fu ll e rton was honoured with life membership of the Association .

Ormond who reversed their second semi-fmal defeat by University Blues to triumph by 4 goals in the Grand Final unfurled the "A" Section flag, their first since 1950 .

"A" Section Umpires were Hagarty, D. R. Dodds, Kolimorgan, Rowe and Marshall .

Executive of the Umpires' Association wer e Graham Simpson, Norman Sharpe, Ken Jorgensen, Lindsay Thomas and Phi llip Rowell, with B ri an Nicholls in charge of social activities .

Beverley Hills made their entry into the Association in Junior Section 2 .

30 YEARS AGO-196 7 The Association moved to Elsternwick Park as its permanent home .

It was the Association's third "central" ground .

The first was Olympic Park, 1957 to 1961, and St Kilda Cricket Ground, 1965, the second .

President of the Umpires' Association was Kevin McKay, with John Posetti as secretary.

Geoff Hibbins returned to the Amateur scene as coach of Collegians .

Missing from the Executive was prominent identity, Mac Tolliday, former secretary of

Commonwealth Bank (in 1997 a director of the Brisbane Lions) , who had been transferred to Sydney.

Old Ivanhoe welcomed former Richmond full forward Bob Dummett as coach .

It was a great thrill for AJAX to unfurl their first premiership flag with "Bunty" Davis, wife of President Harold Davis, unfurling the flag.

Young Coburg Juniors ruckman, Rod MacFarlane, 16, made a spectacular debut, kicking 9 goals and was best afield .

45 YEARS AGO-195 2 Hampton Rovers unfurled their first ever "A"

Section pennant . Captain was Sam Birtles with successful coach, Doug Arnold .

Old Paradians reappeared in "A" Section-first time since 1933 .

Present test cricket selector Sam Loxton had taken over as coach of Collegians .

"A" Section captains were : Perc Adams (Alphington), Evan Macgregor (Ormond), Sam Birtles (Hampton Rovers), Jack Thomas (Commonwealth B an k), Keith Lewis (Collegians), Peter Cox (Old Melburnians), Phil McLaughlin (Old Paradians), Harry Meredith (University Blacks), Geoff Sinclair (University Blues), Jim Lillie (Old Scotch) .

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0 'i

UMPIRES CORNER

by Rachel Miller & Leah Gallagher

Telcome back as we begin our 1997 season .

As you can see from the above photos there ), .,s been a slight change in the physical appearance to the previous scribes : we have more hair and plenty up front! To introduce ourselves, Leah Gallagher has umpired over 150 games on the boundary and lately on the field . Rachel Miller has umpired in the goal for just under 100 games .

We must thank Anthony Damon an d Steve McCarthy for relinquishing their esteemed and at times controversial but witty weekly adaption of our game .

Not only has there been a change to the scribes, 1997 has brought a major change to our advisory panel. To start from the top : Advisor-Michael Sneddon; Skill s-Ron Lippold Observer-Geoff Ridd ; Goal Advisor-John Hall Field and boundary fitness-Jim Vanbeek Goal fitness-Christine Lincowsk i We welcome the new panel and hope that they have rubber backs! But seriously, we wish them all the best and look forward to their new directions .

The first game of the season, after spending a long off season on 299 games, sees Steve McCarthy celebrating a huge milestone in umpiring by reaching 300 games . He will no doubt be celebrating his milestone and if any umpires are near him, they should partake in this celebration .

Following is a brief glimpse of the man that is : Name : Steve McCarthy; VAFA Games : 300 today (Round 1) ; Nickname : Macca ; Memories of first VAFA game : St Kevins v Fawkner at Righetti in 1984 . Pretty uneventful . ; Occupation : Human Resources Consultant ; Car : Ford Meteor ; Personal motivation : I love being involved in amateur footy .

It's also a reason for me to keep fit and not get fat .

Words of advice to youngsters : Listen to your advisors and the more experienced umpires . And most of all, don't be impatient . Suggested improvement to football : We'll need the three umpire system in A section finals soon . These games definitely lift a cog and if the umpires are placed under so much physical pressure, the game suffers, and players and spectators become frustrated . Pet football hates : Players who have no idea about basic rules . I have no problem with players/ supporters who give us a hard time-I'm a shocker when I go to league footy . I abuse the umpires just as much as anyone . Hobbies/other sports : In summer all I do is run, I prefer to spend M TNF 6t,AATFIIR FlXITRGI I FR iQ 0 7

t i in e with the family .

Favourite food : Fish and chips . Drink: I like the occasional beer. Favourite movies : Rocky, Star Wars, The Deer Hunter-nothing recent . Last movie seen: 101 Dalmations (I have young kids) .

Boyhood sporting idol : Bobby Skilton . Last book read : Plugger and the Mighty Swans by Jim Main .

Best Amateur footballers seen: Terry Young (Fawkner) stands out, and I also admired the courageous play of Russell Barnes (Ormond) .

Most memorable match : St Bedes/Mentone Tigers V Old Geelong, D grand final in '93, St Bedes by 2 points after the most exciting last quarter I've ever umpired.Biggest influence on career : Jack Irving, Neville Nash . Best umpires : Peter Gersch, Peter Wiseman, Robert Bell. With the current list I enjoy running with Anthony Damen and Mark Gibson . Your ultimate non-footy fantasy : To open the batting for Australia on Boxing Day at the G . Dream guests at a dinner party : Princess Di, Madonna, Bruce Ruxton, Carl Lewis, Ron Barassi, and Kramer. I'd bring in Idi Amin to clean up the leftovers . Ambition in football : It's still to get a higher grand final than C grade . (I've had four) . There's still a little bit left in this old body .

Love to see you for a beer tonight .

The end of the 1996 season saw the departures of many experienced umpires . To name a few Peter Gersch, Jeffrey Wright, Richard Simon, Ken Pitcher, Robe rt Be ll , Wayne Henry , Bill and David Fowler and Frank Martinez . We wish you every success for what ever you plan to do on Saturday afternoons . We hope to see you around the traps . We also take this opportunity to welcome all new umpires and we will endeavour to name you next week when we front up for training again . We wish the best of luck for your first games with the VAFA . A special mention to Shane Mannix who is umpiring in the field for the first time .

To all umpires, officials and players we welcome any news or information, especially gossip, that you think will aid the further understanding of the umpires . While we cannot promise that it will get printed, we can assure you we will use it to the best of our ability.

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Continued from Page 29

Elwood beach as usual . We will advise you next week of the winner and the jelly fish situation .

The End of Season trip for the umpires took them down on a"DRY" train (thanks Jerker) to Warnambool . Unfortunately due to censorship, what goes on the trip stays on the trip . You know what we are talking about Gilligan . . . . . .

A couple of exciting evens took place over summer. Our best regards go to Andrea Flack and Graham Thwaites who got engaged and play to marry next year . On the very quiet, Peter Keogh tied the knot with long time partner Kate .

Congratulations to the both of you . Next time we would like an invite and Andrea, we would make the perfect bridesmaids .

The new executive panel was voted in at the end of last season .

Justin Toohey - President Colin Segota - Secretary Wayne Hinton - Vice Presiden t Richard Simon - Immediate Past President Peter Harris - Assistant Secretary Michael Lentini - Treasure r

John Kelly - Assistant Treasurer Graham Thwaites - Social Secretary Richard Eastwood and Rachel Miller Executive Members Kevin Segota - VAFAUA Delegat e Many things are planned for this season especially seeing the completion of our building and from what we hear a huge social calendar .

The pre season aquathon was held down at

The upcoming social event is a Casino trip to be held 27 April . The cost will be $20 .00 per person . This includes a 2 course dinner and some Casino chips . Please see Andrea or Graham if you would like to come along and try your luck . The infamous Lygon Street Bounce Down will soon be starting. Please see Bushy to register in the next couple of weeks . Last year saw Wayne Hinton take out the prestigious trophy .

Our congratulations go out to those who have progressed to the next level of umpiring : the VFL. These include Brad Nash, Michael Richardson an d Jonathan Stevenson . Hopefully we will see you on day run onto the hallowed turf of the MCG .

In closing, good luck to all involved for the first game of the season as we leave you wish these thoughts : may your balls bounce high, your throw ins far and long and your flags wave without flair!! !

ELLE and CLAUDIA

MOVING

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'T ? ?

If so then you are invited to come and join Macquarie Uni AFC, Sydney's friendliest football club . We are currently experiencing a revival on the field and welcome new players and officials from interstate . ® Competitive Teams • Great Facilities ® Heavy Social Calenda r For further information please call : •

Paul Morgan (02) 9957 6685 (h), (02) 9236 6927 (w)

• Ross Hinscliff (02) 9413 3584 (h) • Terence Turton (02) 9412 1453 (h )

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h% T4lF GAAATGI I D CflnTOnI I co inn-.

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Traditional football boots with stops can be quite unstable . They can make turning difficult and increase the risk of knee and ankle injuries .

So an Australian footballer and scientist pulled out all the stops to give you a boot with superior comfort, greater stability and surer grip when turning .

The boot is Blades, with unique angled rubber ribs and a distinctive X-shaped heel support .

Australian Design Award winners, Blades have won over the entire team at AFL side Footscray, the Victorian State Football League umpires, Socceroo captain Paul Wade and top Rugby League internationals .

Also approved by the Australian Rugby Football Union, Blades offer a broader last .for Australian feet, an internal EVA wedge to lessen achilles strain and 3 sole types to suit any playing surface .

So try a pair of Blades . And take the greatest step forward in football boot technology for 2S years . /I

Thomas tk Zaetta. ULDUO

A SECTION COLLEGIANS OLD XAVERIANS OLD MELBURNIANS UNIVERSITY BLUES OLD SCTOC H DE LA SALLE OLD HAILEYBURY ST BARNARDS OLD PARADIANS (from B) OLD TRINITY (from B) B SECTION ORMOND (from A) MAZENOD (from A) THERRY CCOB OLD BRIGHTON IVANHO E BANYULE OLD IVANHOE MHSOB ST KILDA STH CAUL. (from C) ST KEVINS (from C)

C SECTIO N NORTH OLD BOYS (from B) MARCELLI N BULLEEN-TEMP . (from B) AJA X THOMASTOWN ST BEDES/MENTONE TIGERS OLD MENTONIANS HAMPTON ROVER S ST LEOS EMMAUS (from D) MONASH BLUES (from D) D SECTION CAULFIELD GRAMMAR OLD GEELONG (from C) BEAUMARIS AFC WHITEFRIARS (from C) PARKSID E OLD CAMBERWELL ST JOHNS 0 C SOUTHBANK AF C OLD ESSENDON (from E) AQUINAS (from E) SALESIAN CC (from E)

11

E EAST SECTION KEW (from D) YARRA VALLEY 0 B OLD CAREY CHIRNSIDE PARK RICHMOND CENTRAL HAWTHORN CITIZENS (from Club XVIII) ELEY PARK AFC BULLEEN COBRAS ELTHAM 0 C E CENTRAL WILLIAMSTOWN UNIVERSITY REDS (from D ) UNIVERSITY BLACKS NORTH BRUNSWICK WEST BRUNSWIC K LA TROBE UNIVERSITY UHSO B OLD WESTBOURNE A F C SWINBURNE UNIVERSITY E SOUTH PENINSULA 0 B POWER HOUSE SOUTHBANK (from D) ST PATRICKS MENTONE OAKLEIGH A F C A N Z ALBERT PARK MONASH GRYPHONS ELSTERNWICK GLENHUNTLY ST MARY S U19 SECTIO N 1 OLD BRIGHTON DE LA SALL E ST BERNARD S OLD MELBURNIANS OLD PARADIANS OLD XAVERIANS MAZENOD OLD CAREY UNIVERSITY BLUES ST KEVINS

U19 SECTION 2 OLD CAMBERWELL WHITEFRIARS UNIVERSITY BLACKS BEAUMARIS MARCELLIN OLD HAILEYBURY COLLEGIANS OLD SCOTCH WARRINGAL WILLIAMSTOWN CYMS U19 SECTIO N 2 (RED) YARRA VALLE Y THERRY PENOLA ST LEOS EMMAUS CHIRNSIDE PARK NORTH OLD BOYS OLD IVANHOE (New) AQUINAS OLD TRINITY OLD PARADIANS (2)

U19 SECTION 2 (BLUE) AJAX MONASH BLUES HAMPTON ROVERS DE LA SALLE (2) MHSOB(New) OLD XAVERIANS (2) (New) OLD GEELON G ORMOND ST BEDES/

MENTONE TIGERS (New) CLUB XVIII/1 OLD BRIGHTON BLOODS ST KEVINS DE LA SALLE OLD SCOTCH ST BERNARDS MAZENOD OLD MELBURNIANS COLLEGIANS OLD XAVERIANS CLUB XVIII/2 MT LILYDALE OC (New) KE W THERRY-PENOLA OLD ESSENDON THORNBURY COUGARS (New ) OLD GEELONG MARCELLIN MONASH WHITES (from E) SYNDAL TALLY HO (New) M THF AMATFUR FOOTRAL I FR 19A7

AUSTRAL