Pre-season Training Thread 2014

[bornadog]

Some of the boys are back in training,(Pups enjoy head start (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/2013-11-08/pups-enjoy-head-start) ) some in Arizona, so post what you know here.

Anyone training with us this year from other clubs that we may be looking at?

[bornadog]

Link (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/2013-11-25/dogs-back-in-training-after-colorado)

The entire Western Bulldogs list has hit the track for the first time since a group of players returned from a high-altitude training camp in Colorado last week.

The session started just before 10 o'clock on Monday morning, and lasted around two and a half hours.

The club's three new draftees, Marcus Bontempelli, Mitch Honeychurch and Matt Fuller, had a light morning, taking a tour around the facilities at Whitten Oval.

Shaun Higgins was spotted on light duties with the rehab group, which included Jack Redpath, Clay Smith, Daniel Pearce, Christian Howard and Jason Johannisen.

Higgins ventured out onto the oval late in the session for some goal kicking practice, as he continues his recovery from a foot injury.

A senior group made up of Robert Murphy, Adam Cooney, Tom Williams, Dale Morris, Matthew Boyd and Daniel Giansiracusa took part in a beep test, with plenty of interested onlookers including a group of school kids watching on from the sidelines. There was also a sprint test for the players.

New recruit Stewart Crameri was fresh from the trip to Colorado, and trained with fellow forwards Liam Jones and Luke Dahlhaus for the early part of the session.

He spent a bit of time on his goal kicking at the end of the session.

[w3design]

I don't think I have ever heard it mentioned, but do we have a [highly] qualified specialist sprint coach at the W. O. ?
If not, why not ?

A lot of the guys on our list would benefit enormously from an extra yard of pace generally, and increased tow off the mark.

Running techniques are skills that can be learned, as distinct from natural pace.

I wonder if we are relying on the guys from Vic. U. in this regard ? Would love to see perhaps a' or former, Olympic sprint squad coach or similar, even if only as a part timer or consultant.

[Happy Days]

I don't think I have ever heard it mentioned, but do we have a [highly] qualified specialist sprint coach at the W. O. ?
If not, why not ?

A lot of the guys on our list would benefit enormously from an extra yard of pace generally, and increased tow off the mark.

Running techniques are skills that can be learned, as distinct from natural pace.

I wonder if we are relying on the guys from Vic. U. in this regard ? Would love to see perhaps a' or former, Olympic sprint squad coach or similar, even if only as a part timer or consultant.

Interesting idea; who was doing the work with Stringer to fix his gait last off season?

[Go_Dogs]

I recall an article last year where Andy mentioned he wanted to look at a few things like this but given last year was his first in the strength and conditioning it wouldn't happen right away.

[divvydan]

The latest Inside the Pack video had Gia mentioning the 2km time trial. Anyone know how people went in the post-Crossy era?

[Greystache]

Photo from training today

http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2013/11/27/1226769/897083-75737eb2-5731-11e3-ba26-b7fc4856beca.jpg

[Ozza]

Photo from training today

http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2013/11/27/1226769/897083-75737eb2-5731-11e3-ba26-b7fc4856beca.jpg

So...we've got full forward, full back, and a centreman sorted....just need to sort out the rest!

[Sedat]

The latest Inside the Pack video had Gia mentioning the 2km time trial. Anyone know how people went in the post-Crossy era?
Maybe they could bring Ed Barlow and Crossy back just for the time trial.

[A Ford]

I heard Crameri won the 2km time trial.

[Maddog37]

But isn't he carrying a beer gut!?

[GVGjr]

But isn't he carrying a beer gut!?

Are you sure you want to add this sort of comment to the discussion?

[bornadog]

But isn't he carrying a beer gut!?

Funny:D

[Maddog37]

Hard to be sure of anything theses days..........

[bornadog]

Hard to be sure of anything theses days..........

I understood your humour.

[bornadog]

Dogs lift standards (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/2013-11-28/dogs-lift-standards)

The Bulldogs’ improved list depth has made picking the best 22 a difficult task, and it’s reflected in the early part of pre-season training according to Daniel Giansiracusa.

“I think everyone is judged, whether you are in your first year or your 15th year, your reputation is on the line every time you go out to train and you want to set a high standard,” Giansiracusa said.

“We are just trying to educate them (the draftees) as much as possible to get up to that standard and so far they haven’t put a foot wrong.

“[We try to] make them feel as welcome as possible, it’s pretty daunting, they are 18-year-old kids coming into an environment which is quite ruthless and very competitive.”

The entire playing list came together for the first time this week, beginning with a range of tests and time trials to set the benchmark for the remainder of the pre-season.

“Well we had a two [kilometre] time trial, so this week has been mainly about testing… then followed by skills which is slowly ramping up,” he said.

“[The] time trial is always nervous for the boys, you get a bit queasy in the stomach but you get through it and there was some pretty good results.

“Stewart Crameri was fantastic and is going to be a real asset I think and some guys jumped up - Tom Young was fantastic in the way he ran.

“There is going to be competition for spots which is really healthy for the footy Club.”

While Giansiracusa knows what to expect heading into the summer training schedule, it hasn’t prevented him from feeling the after affects.

“I suppose the first few weeks it is just the shock to your body, how sore you get and then the load picks up as you go along,” he said.

“By next week we will crank it right up and it sort of sorts the weak from the strong blokes out but that is what pre-season is about.

“I’ve done a few now and I haven’t done an easy one over the journey – they are all hard.

“You go through your ups and downs mentally but you’ve got 44 mates to get through it with.”

[azabob]

Photo from training today

http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2013/11/27/1226769/897083-75737eb2-5731-11e3-ba26-b7fc4856beca.jpg

Did anyone else see the twitter exchange between Geelong and the Western Bulldogs about this photo?

[Maddog37]

Yes, it was funny stuff.

[boydogs]

Did anyone else see the twitter exchange between Geelong and the Western Bulldogs about this photo?

https://twitter.com/Ben_Broad/status/406277941295738881

[LostDoggy]

They are right. We are so very lucky to have this group advising our young pups. When you add our own legends in Grant and Smitty plus its clear that Scotty Wynd is still heavily linked/feeding us Prudden, and now we've got the smiling assassin running the AIS kids. Gee it makes you feel pretty confident the right people are lining up behind us in long, experienced, legendary ranks.

[Cyberdoggie]

At the Social Club Event last night Griff mentioned that Macca records all the training sessions they do now, and after training they sit down and watch/review the training footage. Basically saying that you can't hide if your trying to take it easy or if your attitude isn't right.

Libba mentioned that he thought Tom Young has improved the most in the last year in regards to his training and fitness. I get the feeling he was at the tail end of the group when he came to the club.


Also there is an open training day coming up on the 11th I think?

[azabob]

At the Social Club Event last night Griff mentioned that Macca records all the training sessions they do now, and after training they sit down and watch/review the training footage. Basically saying that you can't hide if your trying to take it easy or if your attitude isn't right.

Libba mentioned that he thought Tom Young has improved the most in the last year in regards to his training and fitness. I get the feeling he was at the tail end of the group when he came to the club.


Also there is an open training day coming up on the 11th I think?

I couldn't make it along last night, but the it seemed a lot turned up? Anything else of note mentioned - in particular the Q&A session?

Just on Tom Young - yes the club was surprised at how unfit / unprepared Tom Young was for senior AFL football fitness wise. With an improved fitness base I'd expect him to perform even better this year. He did look to tire towards the end of the year.

[Cyberdoggie]

I couldn't make it along last night, but the it seemed a lot turned up? Anything else of note mentioned - in particular the Q&A session?

Just on Tom Young - yes the club was surprised at how unfit / unprepared Tom Young was for senior AFL football fitness wise. With an improved fitness base I'd expect him to perform even better this year. He did look to tire towards the end of the year.

To be honest there wasn't too much to take in.
Events like the Social Club xmas party where there are hundreds of people, it doesn't really attract intelligent questions from the crowd.

There were a few questions from some elderly folk like "why do we always kick it to the side of the ground where our supporters aren't sitting", and "why don't we kick it long to packs or kick torpedo's".

There were some questions on the Footscray VFL team that were more sensible but overall nothing incredibly insightful.


Back on topic Macca noted that they had a tough training session yesterday in the heat for about 3 hours and then followed by indoors training and training review, and that the players were pretty exhausted.

[Axe Man]

Some of the things said last night that I can remember and thought were noteworthy:

- Macca said he has 35 names in his head as in line to play round 1. Believes our depth has improved substantially over the past 2 years. Of the new players only Crameri is included in that 35, so perhaps I misunderstood as that would rule out Fuller and Darley which seems surprising.

- The AFL is far better at consulting the clubs these days rather the just simply handing down decisions dictator style as in the past. Doesn't mean we get our way but at least they listen.

- The club had some lively discussions with the AFL over the draw but Demetriou basically said that nobody wants to watch you at the moment. We simply wont get more friendly timeslots until our ladder position improves.

- Peter Gordon really believes that the Edgewater approval is one of the most important achievements in the history of the club. The financial consequences had it fallen over could have been disastrous.

Overall I thought the night was well done. It was well attended and although you always get people talking over the speakers the PA system was loud enough that you could still hear. Most of the playing group were there which was a good effort after a hard day on the track in the heat.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

The night was good for what it is, definitely the most pleasing thing was the news on Tom Young. A few players commented on how much he had already improved his fitness, they seemed quite taken back by it actually.

[Maddog37]

How were the burritos?

[GVGjr]

At the Social Club Event last night Griff mentioned that Macca records all the training sessions they do now, and after training they sit down and watch/review the training footage. Basically saying that you can't hide if your trying to take it easy or if your attitude isn't right.

Libba mentioned that he thought Tom Young has improved the most in the last year in regards to his training and fitness. I get the feeling he was at the tail end of the group when he came to the club.



For all the focus on how much Collingwood spend on their football department I was advised about this time last year how surprised we were that Tom Young wasn't up to our fitness standards when he arrived at the club. Remember he had been at Collingwood for a fair while before we traded for him.

We have a great training facility but it's encouraging that Macca has made it that much harder for players to coast through sessions.

[bornadog]

For all the focus on how much Collingwood spend on their football department I was advised about this time last year how surprised we were that Tom Young wasn't up to our fitness standards when he arrived at the club. Remember he had been at Collingwood for a fair while before we traded for him.

We have a great training facility but it's encouraging that Macca has made it that much harder for players to coast through sessions.

An ex coach said last year he couldn't believe how unfit the Collingwood players were under Mick Malthouse and wondered how they won a premiership. He said our players were some of the fittest in the AFL with guys like Boyd and Crossey setting the standards.

[Raw Toast]

An ex coach said last year he couldn't believe how unfit the Collingwood players were under Mick Malthouse and wondered how they won a premiership. He said our players were some of the fittest in the AFL with guys like Boyd and Crossey setting the standards.

Interesting. I know that not everyone rates Buttifant, be interesting to see how he goes at Carlton - hopefully he can hinder their progress nicely...

[bornadog]

Christmas open training next Wednesday - 11 Dec (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/2013-12-04/christmas-open-training-next-wednesday)

[bornadog]

Christmas open training next Wednesday - 11 Dec (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/2013-12-04/christmas-open-training-next-wednesday)

Congratulate the new Western Bulldogs captain Ryan Griffen in person at the Christmas open training session on Wednesday 11 December 2013, at Victoria University Whitten Oval from 3pm.

The not to be missed event allows members and fans to watch one of the final training sessions of 2013 and get autographs from your favourite Bulldogs young and old.

The Footscray Bulldogs will also take to the field after the Club’s training session, for a first look at the growing VFL lineup.

Santa Claus will make a special guest appearance at VU Whitten Oval alongside Woofer, giving out gifts to young Bulldogs members and fans.

The Bulldogs Shop will also have a number of exclusive one day offers available, with savings on Kooga apparel and more.

If you haven’t already, make sure you join the pack while at the kennel, with a number of friendly Bulldogs membership staff on hand to answer any enquiries and help purchase a 2014 membership.

The Bulldogs’ Christmas open training session will be held at VU Whitten Oval between 3pm – 5pm.

[BornInDroopSt'54]

I'll be there with a greying goatee through which I'll practice a rebel yell.

[soupman]

Went along to the open session today.

Prudden, Hrovat and Smith all did skillwork beforehand, with Smith looking like he was doing kicking technique.

The main group did a number of drills, including some one-on-one marking drills, stoppage work, goalkicking and other generic drills. The smalls finished earlier, while the mid-tall players did extra fitness work which included laps, wrestling and leap frogging (we were watching Stringer leapfrog Ayce, go through his legs and then repeat it over and over and over again).

Almost the entire squad did come out and sign stuff though, with guys like Higgins, Williams and Darley who didn't train with the main squad coming out.

Darley said he would play a mixture of midfield and defence, and Jarrad Grants arms actually look big (he may have actually finally gained weight).

The only player I don't remember seeing was Boyd, everyone else at least signed stuff.

Was a good day and the free sausage sizzle was more than welcome.

[LostDoggy]

Thanks for the report soupaman.

Not 100% sure on accuracy but did hear or read somewhere that Boyd's Mrs gave birth today.

Glad to hear it went well.

[bornadog]

Cheers Soupman. You mention Clay, how does the knee look?

[soupman]

Cheers Soupman. You mention Clay, how does the knee look?

I dunno. It looked like a pretty regular knee to me. He was kicking both feet and didn't seem to have any difficulty and he looked bloody fit.

If I had no prior knowledge of his injury I wouldn't have been able to tell what was the issue watching him train.

[bornadog]

I dunno. It looked like a pretty regular knee to me. He was kicking both feet and didn't seem to have any difficulty and he looked bloody fit.

If I had no prior knowledge of his injury I wouldn't have been able to tell what was the issue watching him train.

Excellent, can't wait to see him run out next season.

[choconmientay]

Cheers Soupman. You mention Clay, how does the knee look?

This is how he looked like at training:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7440/11333093943_ac8e28ec98.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/111272802@N04/11333093943/)
wb_training_end_of_year2013-1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/111272802@N04/11333093943/) by choconmientay (http://www.flickr.com/people/111272802@N04/), on Flickr

Check out some of the pics I took yesterday during the training (http://www.flickr.com/photos/111272802@N04/11333093943/in/set-72157638598094353). See how the boys are shaped up :) Enjoy.

[comrade]

Great shots Choco.

Macrae looks huge. The difference in size compared to 12 months ago is pretty amazing.

[divvydan]

All these pictures just go remind me that identifying players is, for me, like studying for an exam. It's all very easy to get it correct when you have the answer to check (jumper numbers) but take that away and I'm completely clueless without a lot of practice.

[Cyberdoggie]

So good that Mitch Wallis has finally had a trim. Just couldn't take him seriously with the giant yellow fro!

Bontempelli needs a few pre-season into him but still looks bigger in the legs than Ayce Cordy does. Ayce doesn't have a muscle on him.

[Go_Dogs]

Great shots Choco.

Macrae looks huge. The difference in size compared to 12 months ago is pretty amazing.

Thanks Choco, great photos.

Macrae does look a very solid unit now. He's really developed his body a lot faster than I bet most fans anticipated which is a great result for him and for us.

[soupman]

So good that Mitch Wallis has finally had a trim. Just couldn't take him seriously with the giant yellow fro!


Heard him talking to someone else saying how it's the shortest he's ever had it and that he'll grow it out again so enjoy it short while it lasts.

[josie]

Thanks Choco - great photos. Players looking quite buffed.

Could not see Stringer. Did you see him at all?

Really looking forward to seeing some more of our young brigade play in seniors in 2014 as well as Crameri. I'm just imagining the cheers when he runs out in a Dog's jumper (in pre-season and/or then in round 2) given the long segue to him finally joining us...and the long wait until footy season. Bring it on. And thank goodness for WOOF.

[soupman]

Could not see Stringer. Did you see him at all?


Stringer features in a few of the photos. He has grown his hair into a big blonde mop thing. He trained well.

[josie]

Stringer features in a few of the photos. He has grown his hair into a big blonde mop thing. He trained well.

Thanks Soupaman. Orange boots, cap on backwards too. Kinda like the orange boots - shows a bit of flair & pizzazz (like Archie Thompson does for Melbourne Victory). Go Stringerrrrrrr !!!

[always right]

What date does training recommence?

[Eastdog]

What date does training recommence?

According to our club website

Until further notice, pre-season training sessions will be open to the public on Monday, Wednesday and Friday each week from 9:45am at Victoria University Whitten Oval.

Hope Ive helped AR in answering your question.

[GVGjr]

What date does training recommence?

The 6th I believe

[always right]

The 6th I believe

Thanks.....the day I go back to work:(

[Twodogs]

The track watchers told me they go back on the 6th I don't know what they'll be doing though.

[bornadog]

Back to Training today.

http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa198/mmsalih/GoodesHandball_6Jan14_HERO_zpsa9e39ee2.jpg (http://s202.photobucket.com/user/mmsalih/media/GoodesHandball_6Jan14_HERO_zpsa9e39ee2.jpg.html)

Goodsey won the time trial.

Link (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/2014-01-06/dogs-back-to-business)

Fresh from a two week break, the Western Bulldogs playing group returned to Victoria University Whitten Oval for their first training session of the new year on Monday.

After holidays for the Christmas and new years period, a time trial run and skills session were on the schedule for the re-commencement of pre-season.

Brett Goodes was the best performed in the two kilometre run, leading home teammates Jason Tutt, Stewart Crameri and Matthew Boyd.

Top draft pick Marcus Bontempelli also provided the small contingent of Bulldogs fans looking on with something to talk about, impressively leading home his group in the time trial with one of the morning’s better performances.

Following the run, the players were put through their paces by assistant coaches Brett Montgomery, Steven King, Shannon Grant and Rohan Smith in a skills session lasting over one hour.

An afternoon weights session rounded out the first day back for 2014, with less than 80 days remaining until the Club’s first match of the home and away season against the West Coast Eagles at Subiaco.

VU Whitten Oval will be open to members and fans to watch pre-season training, with Monday, Wednesday and Friday sessions open to the public, commencing at 9:45am until further notice.

http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa198/mmsalih/CooneyHandball_6Jan14_HERO_zpsb1e29c1b.jpg (http://s202.photobucket.com/user/mmsalih/media/CooneyHandball_6Jan14_HERO_zpsb1e29c1b.jpg.html)

Cooney looking lean and mean

[LostDoggy]

Was able to go watch for a little while.

Didn't see Minno, Williams or Luke, only spotted Higgins standing in the Gym door.

Didn't see anyone carrying Christmas kilo's! lol All looked very tanned and fit.

[bulldogtragic]

Let's play a game.

Who is that behind Cooney two posts up in the photo?

Double points for the Assistant Coach (?) behind that player!

[bulldogtragic]

I'm going Kingy for double points??

[LostDoggy]

Goodesy winning the time trial ahead of Tutt, Crameri and Boyd, very interesting

[westdog54]

Goodesy winning the time trial ahead of Tutt, Crameri and Boyd, very interesting

I went down and had a look, only saw 2 of the 4 time trial groups.

Goodes absolutely pantsed his group, made it look effortless. Picture Dulcify winning the Cox plate.

Bonts put on a great showing with his group, very impressive.

Mitch Honeychurch has some fitness work to do but he's got Callan Ward-esque courage. Ran back with the flight in one of the drills and copped a fair knock.

Dan Pearce stood out for me, looked really fit and has very clean hands. He'll get a run this year.

Crameri standing next to Bob Murphy is frigging hilarious to look at. Stew is a beast.

We could do with a sponsorship from Gillette, some decent summer growth happening.

[LostDoggy]

Let's play a game.

Who is that behind Cooney two posts up in the photo?

Double points for the Assistant Coach (?) behind that player!

Definitely Mitch. As for the coach... impossible.

[Go_Dogs]

Thanks for the reports, Goodes' effort sounds very impressive. He may surprise a few this year. I wonder if he can play a small part in the midfield rotations where his physical presence may add some value?

[The Bulldogs Bite]

I went down and had a look, only saw 2 of the 4 time trial groups.

Goodes absolutely pantsed his group, made it look effortless. Picture Dulcify winning the Cox plate.

Bonts put on a great showing with his group, very impressive.

Mitch Honeychurch has some fitness work to do but he's got Callan Ward-esque courage. Ran back with the flight in one of the drills and copped a fair knock.

Dan Pearce stood out for me, looked really fit and has very clean hands. He'll get a run this year.

Crameri standing next to Bob Murphy is frigging hilarious to look at. Stew is a beast.

We could do with a sponsorship from Gillette, some decent summer growth happening.

Thanks for the report.

Good to hear on Bonts and Pearce especially. It is a make or break year for the latter.

[JohnGentStand]

It makes me think about the huge upside this season offers with a fresh / fit list. Williams, Higgins, Smith, JJ available + the rise of Macrae, Stringer, TC & Co + Crammers... Hear the bark - Fear the bite :)

[KT31]

It makes me think about the huge upside this season offers with a fresh / fit list. Williams, Higgins, Smith, JJ available + the rise of Macrae, Stringer, TC & Co + Crammers... Hear the bark - Fear the bite :)

Great on a bumper sticker.

[Twodogs]

I've been meaning to post this foe a while. At pre Christmas session the players were just about to start a competitive drill. Just as the first players line up the coach said "do this with intensity but don't hurt each other"

[boydogs]

I've been meaning to post this foe a while. At pre Christmas session the players were just about to start a competitive drill. Just as the first players line up the coach said "do this with intensity but don't hurt each other"

Sounds like he's having to hold them back!

[jeemak]

I've been meaning to post this foe a while. At pre Christmas session the players were just about to start a competitive drill. Just as the first players line up the coach said "do this with intensity but don't hurt each other"


Sounds like he's having to hold them back!

I think it's an important thing to have to remind younger players of.

All the older blokes would know how to go hard at it with intent pretty much all the time (or they should, anyway) without taking it beyond the edge of what's reasonable.

Younger players sometimes don't get it and end up injured. I've seen it happen plenty of times at training.

[ratsmac]

Goodesy winning the time trial ahead of Tutt, Crameri and Boyd, very interesting

I agree, interesting indeed. I know it's great that Goodes has come back in good shape (pardon the pun) but what is that saying about our midfield group? Probably nothing, but would it be better to see a younger bloke winning a 2km time trial?

[Hotdog60]

I agree, interesting indeed. I know it's great that Goodes has come back in good shape (pardon the pun) but what is that saying about our midfield group? Probably nothing, but would it be better to see a younger bloke winning a 2km time trial?

Goodes has a lot of football under his belt and maybe he is benefiting from being in the AFL system all be it a bit late in life. He may just burn bright for the next couple of seasons if he can keep his body injury free. Then age may catch up very quickly.

[GVGjr]

Goodes has a lot of football under his belt and maybe he is benefiting from being in the AFL system all be it a bit late in life. He may just burn bright for the next couple of seasons if he can keep his body injury free. Then age may catch up very quickly.

Agreed. I think he has two more years where he might be able to produce consistent football but there could also be a rapid loss of form. It's encouraging to see that he is giving it his best shot though.

[always right]

I've been meaning to post this foe a while. At pre Christmas session the players were just about to start a competitive drill. Just as the first players line up the coach said "do this with intensity but don't hurt each other"

I remember a conversation I had with Macca at last year's East/West family day. I commented on Lin Jong and what a powerful frame he had for a young bloke. I suggested that with appropriate development he could become quite a physical weapon onfield.

Macca agreed and mentioned that he had encouraged Jong to use his physical attributes more but had to reign him in when he became too eager at training and started hurting his teamates.:)

[bornadog]

I remember a conversation I had with Macca at last year's East/West family day. I commented on Lin Jong and what a powerful frame he had for a young bloke. I suggested that with appropriate development he could become quite a physical weapon onfield.

Macca agreed and mentioned that he had encouraged Jong to use his physical attributes more but had to reign him in when he became too eager at training and started hurting his teamates.:)

and himself.

[Twodogs]

I remember a conversation I had with Macca at last year's East/West family day. I commented on Lin Jong and what a powerful frame he had for a young bloke. I suggested that with appropriate development he could become quite a physical weapon onfield.

Macca agreed and mentioned that he had encouraged Jong to use his physical attributes more but had to reign him in when he became too eager at training and started hurting his teamates.:)



Lin is a big unit. If he could get a good run injury wise he could be good for us.

[westdog54]

I remember a conversation I had with Macca at last year's East/West family day. I commented on Lin Jong and what a powerful frame he had for a young bloke. I suggested that with appropriate development he could become quite a physical weapon onfield.

Macca agreed and mentioned that he had encouraged Jong to use his physical attributes more but had to reign him in when he became too eager at training and started hurting his teamates.:)

Yet another 'wrecking ball' for the books. Brilliant.

[bornadog]

OPEN TRAINING: Tomorrow 9:45am (Wednesday 15 January) will be the next open training session and the final open session of this week.

It will be hot again out there

The boys sweated it out on the track yesterday morning, another solid running session to finish off after skills.

http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa198/mmsalih/Bd1Rk94CQAAk79v_zps97457f9a.jpg (http://s202.photobucket.com/user/mmsalih/media/Bd1Rk94CQAAk79v_zps97457f9a.jpg.html)

[Cyberdoggie]

Lin is a big unit. If he could get a good run injury wise he could be good for us.

Unfortunately won't get very far unless he learns how to dispose the ball accurately.

[Mofra]

Unfortunately won't get very far unless he learns how to dispose the ball accurately.
Or model his game on Dale Morris who kicks well within his limitations and also lacks rebounding nous at times.

Jong is a super athlete and similar size to Glove.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

I've been to a couple sessions in recent weeks, including today. Few observations:

- The coaching is quite detailed/thorough, it's a totally different landscape than what we had a few years ago under Eade. Unfortunately for him, he didn't have the resources McCartney does today. I wonder if it would have changed anything? In any case, the coaches all appear to be reinforcing the same message and ensuring players do the drills correctly.

- Going back a few years ago, most of the team would do the one drill. Perhaps 1 or 2 other small break off groups, but that was about it. In these sessions I've seen this pre-season, there's regularly about 5-7 much smaller break off groups. This obviously is helped given the excess coaching staff we now have, but it's good to see and relates back to my analysis that there's a lot more detail and teaching going on. Especially with the younger players. For example today, Scarlett and Morris spent time to teach Fuller how to spoil the ball as a defender. I've never quite seen it before, but was impressed.

- Some different types of drills, including a 'corale' (sp?) exercise where McCartney was very, very detailed about how he wanted the group to go about it. From memory the group was mainly younger players (Hrovat, Macrae, Campbell, Jong and a few others). Macca was very vocal, you could see his teaching background come to the fore.

Player wise:

- JJ looks good, did well in some one-on-one spoiling work which Bubba praised repeatedly. Uses his body well and also reads the situation well. Dominated Hunter in these.

- Campbell might just be carved out of stone. Looks in ripping condition, he's so strong and I love how he really presents at the ball and extends his arms to take marks at his highest point. Impressive.

- Cordy does the exact opposite of Campbell. With ridiculous regularity he lopes through to the ball, doesn't get off the ground, and his arms are bent. Both Young, Morris and Roughead defended against him easily. Only once did Cordy actively push off against a defender (Roughead) to create separation and take the mark arms extended. The rest, he either took a few steps/failed in wrestling his opponent or let all 3 of Young/Morris/Rough push past him to punch the ball away.

- Jones is so quick and can seriously leap. Hopefully he puts it together this year. Last week, his lack of fitness was astounding, so I am not overly confident.

- Bontempelli looks classy. Moves well, excellent awareness/game sense.

- Griffen looks super fit and his disposal was a class above the rest. A lot of players 'loop' their kicks, but Griff's travel from point A to point B very quickly.

- Talia's disposal is still a concern.

- Gia is doing a lot of coaching in drills and still looks fit/leads from the front.

All the players look fit, strong and it's really noticeable that we've got some tall guys to rotate through the midfield, especially with the likes of Crameri, Macrae and Bonti.

[azabob]

Great write up TBB. Thanks heaps.

[doggies ftw]

...

Thanks for that mate, great write up.

Some pretty exciting stuff in there. Love the bit about Campbell and I've noticed those things about him too, is he actually taking the marks now though? He was great when he came in late in the season, he got to everything and made a contest and was playing really well but if he can just clunk a few more of them rather than knock them to ground (which is still really important for our smalls) he could be pretty damn good.

Also on Cordy, word is that he has slimmed down and is moving really well, did you notice that at all? You don't seem to confident in him, it would be great if he could prove us all wrong finally.

If its not too much to ask I'd love to hear your thoughts from preseason training so far on the likes of Roughy, Macrae, Stringer and especially Fletch Roberts.

Cheers again

[LostDoggy]

Really good report, TBB. Thanks! Nice to have a keen and knowledgeable eye on things for us.

Great to hear that The Bont looks classy. If Macca can foster him as a hard inside player, we'll have our very own Mundy :) Fantastic to hear that JJ is powering, and that he's dominating Hunter - that's a really telling point cos Hunter is a clever and slippery customer, from what I've seen. Also nice to hear that Campbell is still developing - but sad to hear that Ayce is apparently not. Anything to report on Will? We haven't heard much on him since his apparent back issue. And Griff... from what I've heard, he might already be in AA form! :D

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Love the bit about Campbell and I've noticed those things about him too, is he actually taking the marks now though?

Also on Cordy, word is that he has slimmed down and is moving really well, did you notice that at all?

If its not too much to ask I'd love to hear your thoughts from preseason training so far on the likes of Roughy, Macrae, Stringer and especially Fletch Roberts.

His hands have been fairly strong, still drops a couple but he always brings it to the front as you say. I haven't seen him pushed off the ball, out-marked or clearly beaten in a contest yet. A partnership with Crameri and Dickson could be exciting, all three are extremely good in one on one situations.

Cordy still lumbers and as I said, defenders (including Rough) moved past him in one on one marking drills regularly. Rough isn't quick either but he did it easily v Cordy. If Ayce pushed off, presented hard at the ball and extended his arms fully he'd do a lot better but he just doesn't do it. He looked out of his depth in all the drills I saw him to be honest and he still lacks penetration with his kicking. Never seems to get much purchase on the ball.

Roughy looks fantastic. His leadership is apparent, always instructing and directing from the back. He's still not quick off the mark but he's good in one on ones, his spoiling is underrated. Physically he's in impressive shape too. Big fan of Roughy.

Macrae has trained well from the times I've seen him. He is noticeably bigger and looks fit. Pleased to see him use the ball well, his ability to evade is extraordinary. His hands are underrated - times them well to players in better positions.

Stringer still looks a bit behind the others, but it's understandable. His fitness isn't great and as a result can make some errors by foot when he tires. Just an observation, but I am not sure he's the best trainer/runner going around. Something he'll need to improve, which I am sure he will. We need to be patient, has lost some puppy fat and looks stronger.

Paid a bit of attention to Roberts this time. He's still relatively lean and needs to add more size if he's to play key position, which I am not sure he'll be able to do anyway. Might be that third tall who can swing back and go forward. He did spend a fair bit of time with the forwards today so perhaps that's an indication of where he'll play in our VFL side. He's not that quick, but he's got composure and he uses the ball really well. He's one player I am really looking forward to watching in the VFL.

Hrovat is another I missed, has been impressive each time I've seen him. He's just smarter than the rest more often than not. Uses his body exceptionally well, even in contested marking situations., which surprised me. Use by hand and foot is neat too. Also good to see him show some leadership in drills, particularly to the younger guys.

Jong looks very fit and is quite quick. Displayed his courage again today going back with the flight of the ball to take a nice mark. His kicking was really poor last time I saw him, but there's definitely something to work with. Midfield tagger? Half back defender in the Morris mould? I'm not sure, and will have to look closer at his game to analyse his game sense.


Anything to report on Will? We haven't heard much on him since his apparent back issue.

Looks very fit and strong, continuing to work closely with Steven King and the mids in certain drills. Uses his strength so much better than he used to.

Griff really does look a cut above the rest in everything he does. Seems really happy too.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Also, as good as Dickson is one on one in marking situations and as straight as a kick for goal that he is, he really struggles up the ground. His decision making and disposal is quite average. I know there's no such thing these days as "stay at home forwards", but he really isn't good in congested play up the ground.

[bulldogtragic]

I'm not sure to have it here or for an Ayce thread (your call), but I don't understand why after all these years in an elite environment with great coaches, that Ayce is unwilling or unable to understand or do what needs to be done with his height and other attributes. I just don't understand it, I've just started clinical Pilates so I get moving your body counter to what you want to, and thinking of what your meant to do and not actually doing it makes you look and feel like a Gumby, but if after 5 years I can't work it out then have to accept quiet questions will turn into epic public discussions about whether we etch his name into the long line of false first round tall prophets. Watching today, was he ignoring things or over thinking or just 'lost'?

[Twodogs]

- Griffen looks super fit and his disposal was a class above the rest. A lot of players 'loop' their kicks, but Griff's travel from point A to point B very quickly.




Did you see Griff explaining to Hrovat how to kick with a bent leg?

[ratsmac]

Yeah thanks TBB. Good read!

Just on Liam Jones, I was at training a couple weeks ago and you couldn't help but notice Liam's lack of endurance during one of the running drills. It was a hot morning but he significantly slower than every other player. It's no secret that Liam has a small tank but it just showed me why Liam doesn't have those second and third leads like the good forwards do, and it is probably what holds him back from being that big dangerous forward that we are hoping he can become.

I am no sports scientist by any means, so I am wondering is endurance something that can be taught or developed? or is it you either have it or you don't?

[bulldogtragic]

Yeah thanks TBB. Good read!

Just on Liam Jones, I was at training a couple weeks ago and you couldn't help but notice Liam's lack of endurance during one of the running drills. It was a hot morning but he significantly slower than every other player. It's no secret that Liam has a small tank but it just showed me why Liam doesn't have those second and third leads like the good forwards do, and it is probably what holds him back from being that big dangerous forward that we are hoping he can become.

I am no sports scientist by any means, so I am wondering is endurance something that can be taught or developed? or is it you either have it or you don't?
The sad tale of Pat Vezpremi tends to indicate that a tank might be harder to be developed than probably even I think...

[bornadog]

Thanks TBB, I love these updates as it builds up to the first game.

I think McCrae will be very good for us and I am looking forward to seeing him play.

[Mofra]

Disappointing to hear about Cordy - he really seems to have to become a first ruck (which I think Campbell is better suited to) and at this stage is a depth player.

Reading through the various reports and the positives and negatives I really would have been more comfortable with 1 more ruckman available, even as a rookie.

[soupman]

Macca just did the whole #askthecoach thing on twitter. Didn't look to say too much interesting beyond the usual:
-Hunter is a natural mid
-Bontempelli could end up playing anywhere. Big guy who can run
-Stringer will eventually be a mid who goes forward
-Dahlhaus will try and increase his minutes in the middle
-Rate Honeychurch's competitiveness and effort
-Jong does have Morris like qualities about him
-Macrae's body is growing and learning a lot. "Going to be a very very good player" (That's 2 very's!!!!!)
-Smith will be back early April all going well
-Campbell will continue to develop as a forward/ruck


Most interesting bits:
-Players pushing for a spot in the best 22 who weren't last year: Pearce and Cordy
-Boyd will play run with roles at times, mostly play in the middle, but will go forward
-Higgins will play a different role further up the ground, wing and halfback

[bornadog]

Macca just did the whole #askthecoach thing on twitter. Didn't look to say too much interesting beyond the usual:
-Hunter is a natural mid
-Bontempelli could end up playing anywhere. Big guy who can run
-Stringer will eventually be a mid who goes forward
-Dahlhaus will try and increase his minutes in the middle
-Rate Honeychurch's competitiveness and effort
-Jong does have Morris like qualities about him
-Macrae's body is growing and learning a lot. "Going to be a very very good player" (That's 2 very's!!!!!)
-Smith will be back early April all going well
-Campbell will continue to develop as a forward/ruck


Most interesting bits:
-Players pushing for a spot in the best 22 who weren't last year: Pearce and Cordy
-Boyd will play run with roles at times, mostly play in the middle, but will go forward
-Higgins will play a different role further up the ground, wing and halfback

Where is that Like Button:)

[Cyberdoggie]

Most interesting bits:
-Players pushing for a spot in the best 22 who weren't last year: Pearce and Cordy


I would of thought they were the two least likely along with Fletcher by the end of last year.
Perhaps he is just pumping their tyres up a little because I don't see them improving that much in a pre-season over so many others.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Watching today, was he ignoring things or over thinking or just 'lost'?

Not too sure, perhaps it's questionable whether he's getting enough advice about forward craft/creating separation etc. or perhaps he simply isn't good enough and is more of a natural ruck anyway. I lean towards the latter.


Did you see Griff explaining to Hrovat how to kick with a bent leg?

I missed that, wish he explained it to Tutt because every single one of his kicks were looped and spinning incorrectly, as though he kept getting under them/brushing the side of his boot.



I am no sports scientist by any means, so I am wondering is endurance something that can be taught or developed? or is it you either have it or you don't?

Genetics certainly play an important part, but Jones' work ethic isn't as strong as it should be and this is evident in certain drills. It may mean that in order to improve his fitness, things like cross training will be of more benefit to him than simply just running -- which they already do, but it may apply moreso to somebody like Jones.

[soupman]

I would of thought they were the two least likely along with Fletcher by the end of last year.
Perhaps he is just pumping their tyres up a little because I don't see them improving that much in a pre-season over so many others.

I have a feeling that he took the question as "who outside of the core 30 from last season do you see stepping up this season", meaning he was picking from a pool of Cordy, Pearce, Roberts, Howard, Tutt etc. instead of Hrovat, Stringer, Campbell etc.

[Mofra]

I have a feeling that he took the question as "who outside of the core 30 from last season do you see stepping up this season", meaning he was picking from a pool of Cordy, Pearce, Roberts, Howard, Tutt etc. instead of Hrovat, Stringer, Campbell etc.
To be honest I see Tutt a significant step ahead of the rest of the guys grouped there.
I like Roberts but he's behind Talia, Roughy & Young and despite being on the rookie list Austin plays his role too.

[always right]

I've only seen photos and footage but Pearce stands out to me as someone who dramatically changed his body shape in the off season and looks in outstanding shape. Let's hope it translates to better performances on the field because we can always use more quick running defenders. He reminds me a little of Geary from St Kilda who has limitations but has turned himself into a running machine who can play on a variety of midfield and small forward types.

[LostDoggy]

Anyone seen Big Min?

[Dazza]

Re:Bontempeli how is his attack on the ball in the air and on the ground? I see a lot of similarities with Everitt at the moment. Just hoping he has that attack on the ball that Everitt was missing.

[always right]

Re:Bontempeli how is his attack on the ball in the air and on the ground? I see a lot of similarities with Everitt at the moment. Just hoping he has that attack on the ball that Everitt was missing.

Apart from being tall and lean.....what other similarities do you see?

[ledge]

Would never have emphasized Everitt playing in the centre, I don't see any likeness at all except the two above and he is a homosapien.

[Dazza]

Height, bodyshape, kicking skills, early pick, pace, endurance, project player, great potential, bottom ager etc. It was said Everitt could have played as a midfielder when he was drafted as well.

Everitt looked great when he first played, it's only his attack on the ball that lets him down. He looked like a tall wingman before we tried to turn him into a kpp. Eventually he became a jack of all trades master of none.

I'm not writing the kid off, just asking what his attack on the ball is like.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Height, bodyshape, kicking skills, early pick, pace, endurance, project player, great potential, bottom ager etc. It was said Everitt could have played as a midfielder when he was drafted as well.

Everitt looked great when he first played, it's only his attack on the ball that lets him down. He looked like a tall wingman before we tried to turn him into a kpp. Eventually he became a jack of all trades master of none.

I'm not writing the kid off, just asking what his attack on the ball is like.

Those attributes you could label most top picks with and the other attributes are generic enough to be of no relevance in a comparison with Everitt. I dont know what his attack on the ball is like but i would hazard a guess that there is no way Macca would have accepted drafting him if it was poor. So i dont think there should be any concern

[soupman]

Those attributes you could label most top picks with and the other attributes are generic enough to be of no relevance in a comparison with Everitt. I dont know what his attack on the ball is like but i would hazard a guess that there is no way Macca would have accepted drafting him if it was poor. So i dont think there should be any concern

This is the beauty of Macca. People love to laugh about how everyone needs to be able to crack in and be solid citizens and stuff, but it does mean that we know that all of our recruits are going to be players that are prepared to work their arses off to make it and won't be found out for a lack of physicality or endeavour at the top level.

That means no more Everitts, or Hills, or Bowdens, or McDougall's etc.

[stefoid]

ha ha, was just discussing McDudegirl with someone yesterday.

[Twodogs]

ha ha, was just discussing McDudegirl with someone yesterday.


You must have been struggling to find things to talk about.

Closed session today but I snuck in for a peek towards the end of the session. The players were having match practice but the idea was to not turn the ball over.


Macca bought them in to talk about players defending and taking up space when the opposition has the ball. Gee he's loud! I was over the other side of the ground and I could hear him quite clearly. "When the opposition are streaming forward and I look at our defence what should I be able to see Griff?" "Tall defenders running into position" "Yes. Talls running into position, thank you Griff"

If the footy thing doesn't work out for him he could find work scaring people I reckon.

[Ghost Dog]

To be honest I see Tutt a significant step ahead of the rest of the guys grouped there.
I like Roberts but he's behind Talia, Roughy & Young and despite being on the rookie list Austin plays his role too.

I'm really looking forward to seeing Young play in 2014. Flies under the radar a fair bit. He generally makes great decisions. You feel confident when he has the ball in hand.

[Ghost Dog]

Height, bodyshape, kicking skills, early pick, pace, endurance, project player, great potential, bottom ager etc. It was said Everitt could have played as a midfielder when he was drafted as well.

Everitt looked great when he first played, it's only his attack on the ball that lets him down. He looked like a tall wingman before we tried to turn him into a kpp. Eventually he became a jack of all trades master of none.

I'm not writing the kid off, just asking what his attack on the ball is like.

Not just that. At times his decision making was criminally speculative. Going for boundary goals and missing them, while a bloke stands in the square screaming for it. In that moment, his papers were stamped, in my mind at least.

[Daughter of the West]

Macca bought them in to talk about players defending and taking up space when the opposition has the ball. Gee he's loud!
If the footy thing doesn't work out for him he could find work scaring people I reckon.

He's probably well trained from years of yelling at rambunctious high school students :D

[Dazza]

Not just that. At times his decision making was criminally speculative. Going for boundary goals and missing them, while a bloke stands in the square screaming for it. In that moment, his papers were stamped, in my mind at least.



Do you think he'll get a game at the Blues? I think he'll probably be in their best 22.

[Ghost Dog]

Not sure. But I seem to recall his claim to have the ability to be " The next Adam Goodes" as reported in the Hun a few years back. Now that was a huge self wrap.

[Go_Dogs]

Macca bought them in to talk about players defending and taking up space when the opposition has the ball. Gee he's loud! I was over the other side of the ground and I could hear him quite clearly. "When the opposition are streaming forward and I look at our defence what should I be able to see Griff?" "Tall defenders running into position" "Yes. Talls running into position, thank you Griff"

If the footy thing doesn't work out for him he could find work scaring people I reckon.

I like it, thanks for the update.

Great to have the captain involved to reinforce the message.

[LostDoggy]

Tom Campbell's been a clear front-runner in the beard department.

[Dazza]

I'm really looking forward to seeing Young play in 2014. Flies under the radar a fair bit. He generally makes great decisions. You feel confident when he has the ball in hand.

I had my doubts about Young early on but towards the end of last year he really found some good form, not only defending and rebounding well but getting on the end of a few scoring chains at times.

With news his tanks much improved I'm looking for him to be a big improver. We really need a HBF that can average close to a goal a game. I can see JJ and Young being that sort of player in the near future.

[Chicago1]

If you haven't seen the news on "the other site", I'll be flying in to Melbourne on Saturday morning for a quick week long visit. I have to return by April 10th to renew my Permanent Residency and because of family obligations I won't be able to be there for the first rounds as I had planned.

As of now, it looks like I'll be at training Tuesday morning. I'll be wearing my Chicago Cubs cap and you'll recognise me by my pasty white skin. I'm hoping to go to the NAB match in Geelong on Wednesday evening, but that will be depend on transport. I'll try to get over for another training later in the week, if I can, but I already have made commitments for lunch and coffee and visits to some of my old friends. I'll be staying in East Keilor as usual, so will probably go up to Highpoint once or twice. Unfortunately I will not have a mobile phone nor computer access, but will try to check my mail at Highpoint.

Hope to see some of you next week. It's going to be below zero F tonight once again, so I'm looking forward to some warm weather. I've shoveled snow 18 times so far this season. Snow and winter suck here!

[Remi Moses]

Hopefully we won't get a 40 degree stinker for you Chicago.
Enjoy your return

[Twodogs]

See you on Tuesday morning mate.

[bornadog]

Next Training Session (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/season)The next open training sessions will be on Friday, 28 February 2014 and Monday, 3 March from 9:30am at Victoria University Whitten Oval.