2015 Pre-Season

[soupman]

For anything pre-season training related.

Today is day one and the one-four year players are training, including the likes of TBoyd, Liberatore and Stringer.

The club has a short video up here (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/video/2014-11-05/the-boys-return-to-the-kennel) and the AFL has an article featuring various twitter photos from across the competition here (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-11-05/back-on-track).

Apparently in the 2km time trial Lachie Hunter won with Wallis and Bontempelli the next to cross the line.

[Bumper Bulldogs]

Tom Boyd@17.

Is this an Indication he will get Cooneys old number

[Mofra]

Good result for Lachie - could well get some midfield minutes this year.

[1eyedog]

He wore 17 as a junior but you're right - it's available again.

[Cyberdoggie]

He wore 17 as a junior but you're right - it's available again.

13 is as well. The number he wore at the Giants.

[LostDoggy]

Fuller looks to be up on the pace in one of those pics. Good on him, I would imagine he has been pre - pre-season training and have one last crack.

[LostDoggy]

Fuller looks to be up on the pace in one of those pics. Good on him, I would imagine he has been pre - pre-season training and have one last crack.

Unless he's being lapped of course!!

[Pickenitup]

Good to see Joel Corey still with us.

[Bulldog Revolution]

Good to see Joel Corey still with us.

I thought so too

Macca got a lot right, but obviously mucked up some really key things

[Go_Dogs]

Great to hear about Hunter, he's very creative so would be great if he can take a turn in the middle and even end up a midfielder who rests forward.

Also great that Corey is still on board.

[F'scary]

Good to see Joel Corey still with us.

Does that mean we, and not Geelong, are the team with too many Joels?

[Cyberdoggie]

Stringer looked to be the only one off the pace of the main group.

Can't see him moving into the midfield if he's not even keeping up with Fletcher Roberts.

[lemmon]

Bonti looked like he was right up with the pace and had some decent guns on him, will fill out naturally this year and next

[bornadog]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUIHvlGX_R4&list=UUCYdpsLzNPQpmOdZt_a7DNA

[bornadog]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IA0XhLV_dQQ&list=UUCYdpsLzNPQpmOdZt_a7DNA

[GVGjr]

Garlick on 3AW:
"Chris Maple, Joel Corey and Ashley Hansen are handling the training at the moment... All with all the development coaches'

[Mofra]

Garlick on 3AW:
"Chris Maple, Joel Corey and Ashley Hansen are handling the training at the moment... All with all the development coaches'
Gia was in the short vid on the website too. At this stage tactics are a fair way off so no real issue with not having a head coach.

[The Underdog]

Seen plenty of Fuller in the photos. No Pearce though

[bulldogsman]

Seen plenty of Fuller in the photos. No Pearce though

The guys in the Footscray premiership winning team get an extra two weeks off...

[bulldogtragic]

The guys in the Footscray premiership winning team get an extra two weeks off...

That's nice of Carlton.

[dogman]

Just saw Mulligan training Jones and Johannisen at williamstown beach.
Hopefully Johannisen is in for a big season and jones does a knee!

[kruder]

Gee its hard not to love Bonti. Put on size over the break running well and dominating the skills.

[F'scary]

Gee its hard not to love Bonti. Put on size over the break running well and dominating the skills.

I would play him at CHF

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B2NKCEDCQAEI1I_.jpg:large

[Twodogs]

Did you go down today BAD?


I was going to go but I ended up doing something else.

[bornadog]

Did you go down today BAD?


I was going to go but I ended up doing something else.

Haven't been for ages.

[Maddog37]

Haven't been for ages.


Lift your game. I for one rely on your reports.

[LostDoggy]

I stopped in for a look today.

Not much to report.

Bonti looks huge!

Boyd already looks to have lightened off a bit in the frame, just did some ball handling skills.

TC and Prudden on the bikes, TC in a sling apparently minor shoulder surgery and also decidedly beardless!

Fuller looked sharp enough, seems to really be having a crack

Greenwood training despite being delisted, probably points to a rookie spot.

Mark Stevens down there in his finest, great to have a journo on our side!

Anyone help me out with the Bonti lookalike on our list? Looks as big as him, with a similar bouffant?

Funny, watching Boyd and Pearce (I think) doing some kicking from the pocket at goals. Boydy said, "I kick this you buy me lunch!" An awkward silence followed! He missed it BTW.

[Twodogs]

Saw Boyd have a shot from inside the gates of the ETC on Monday. It only just rolled the other side of the post.

[Axe Man]

Anyone help me out with the Bonti lookalike on our list? Looks as big as him, with a similar bouffant?

Funny, watching Boyd and Pearce (I think) doing some kicking from the pocket at goals. Boydy said, "I kick this you buy me lunch!" An awkward silence followed! He missed it BTW.

Possibly Joel Hamling, was meant to be starting today according to Chris Maple in the pre-season video from yesterday. Would be a similar height to Bonti.

http://s7.postimg.org/7yymyqhzv/HAMLING_Joel.png (http://postimage.org/)

Pearce was probably thinking: you're on about a million times more than me Boydy, you can get stuffed if you think I'm buying you lunch!:D

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Now which Boyd are we talking about? We have 2 now :)

I realise its Tom but we dont want the ambiguity in the future :) Did we decide on Toms nickname yet?

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

T Bone

[bulldogsthru&thru]

T Bone

Does he like his steak? Better make sure he is the only one who does else he may get nicknamed Koko the monkey

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

Of coco pops fame?

[LostDoggy]

Elvis

[bornadog]

Possibly Joel Hamling, was meant to be starting today according to Chris Maple in the pre-season video from yesterday. Would be a similar height to Bonti.

Pearce was probably thinking: you're on about a million times more than me Boydy, you can get stuffed if you think I'm buying you lunch!:D

Hamling was there today:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B2NMhJsCUAEnukT.jpg:large

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Of coco pops fame?

of Costanza fame

552

[bornadog]

Stringer welcomes Tom Boyd


http://www.snappytv.com/snaps/stringer_on_boyd_dqwaek

Love this bloke, already started to mature and still 20 :eek:

[Twodogs]

Possibly Joel Hamling, was meant to be starting today according to Chris Maple in the pre-season video from yesterday. Would be a similar height to Bonti.

http://s7.postimg.org/7yymyqhzv/HAMLING_Joel.png (http://postimage.org/)

Pearce was probably thinking: you're on about a million times more than me Boydy, you can get stuffed if you think I'm buying you lunch!:D

He does look a little like Bonti. We should disguise him as Bonti before games and see if we can create a mis match with their opponents.

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

of Costanza fame

552 with you now

[LostDoggy]

Hamling was there today:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B2NMhJsCUAEnukT.jpg:large

Yep that's him, from afar I got them confused a little bit. Very similar size wise. And their wavy hair.

[F'scary]

Hamling was there today:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B2NMhJsCUAEnukT.jpg:large

Lovely one grab mark.

[soupman]

Lovely one grab mark.

It's like time is standing still.

[Twodogs]

Hamling was there today:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B2NMhJsCUAEnukT.jpg:large


Jumps off his right foot.

[LostDoggy]

Hope it isn't the extent of his vertical leap!

[F'scary]

Now which Boyd are we talking about? We have 2 now :)

I realise its Tom but we dont want the ambiguity in the future :) Did we decide on Toms nickname yet?

Big Boyd. From Sesame Street.

[hujsh]

Big Boyd. From Sesame Street.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpOj2BwimrM

[bornadog]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ygAAVzciRQ&list=UUCYdpsLzNPQpmOdZt_a7DNA

[bornadog]

Bigger Bontempelli 'dominates' Bulldogs' pre-season training


MARCUS Bontempelli is set to build on his outstanding debut season after returning to training noticeably bigger.

The young Western Bulldog has been an early star of the pre-season, according to assistant coach Steven King, having added about 7kg to his 193cm frame.

It's an enticing prospect for fans who watched the teenager shrug opponents off with ease at times in his first season, most notably when he kicked a match-winning goal against Melbourne in round 15.

"He has dominated. He came back looking really good," King told the Herald Sun of Bontempelli, who finished one vote behind young Lion Lewie Taylor in last season's NAB AFL Rising Star Award.

"He has put on a bit of weight and is about 93 kilos now. That's about seven kilos more than he was (at the start of last year). He is starting to fill into his frame."

While Bontempelli is flying, another high-profile Bulldog pup is being eased into training.

Prized recruit Tom Boyd, lured from Greater Western Sydney on a seven-year deal reportedly worth more than $6 million, is yet to hit the track with his new teammates after recovering from appendicitis.

Instead, the key forward has spent time training indoors. But he could be back on the track as early as Thursday, King said.

"He's been here since last Wednesday, but we are just keeping an eye on him at the moment. He is just doing some screening work before he really gets started," he said.

"He reminds me of when Tom Hawkins first came into Geelong - he's a real big lump of a kid."

The Bulldogs' first-to-fourth-year players have been undergoing testing and screening for the past week, with the club's senior group to return next week.

"It's an exciting young group we have in at the moment," he said. "They are the ones who are going to hold the place to account a bit.

"If they are up and about early with their testing, it provides a good example to the other guys."

l (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-11-13/bont-bigger-than-ever)ink here

[LostDoggy]

Oh my....

[1eyedog]

Was surprised to hear how quick Stringer is also. Apparently came second only to Dahl in the speed trial.

[bornadog]

TRAIN-ON LIST
The AFL has released the names of players that have been allowed to train with clubs in the lead up to the National Draft:
Alex Greenwood, Brett Goodes and Daniel Pearce are the Allowed Players for the Western Bulldogs

[Go_Dogs]

Was surprised to hear how quick Stringer is also. Apparently came second only to Dahl in the speed trial.

Where did you hear this? Great news if true. He must be fully recovered from the break.

[divvydan]

Where did you hear this? Great news if true. He must be fully recovered from the break.

Came from a video on the club website http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/video/2014-11-12/stringer-buoyed-by-boyd

[bulldogtragic]

TRAIN-ON LIST
The AFL has released the names of players that have been allowed to train with clubs in the lead up to the National Draft:
Alex Greenwood, Brett Goodes and Daniel Pearce are the Allowed Players for the Western Bulldogs

Goodes.... Maybe GVGJR gets his wish of a state level running type on the rookie list as insurance.

[F'scary]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpOj2BwimrM

Well you know what they say:

Imitation is the...means you didn't patent it.

[KT31]

Goodes.... Maybe GVGJR gets his wish of a state level running type on the rookie list as insurance.

I hope not.

[LostDoggy]

I hope not.

It's surely just to keep him fit for the VFL.

[KT31]

It's surely just to keep him fit for the VFL.

Agree and also possibly to have some senior leadership out on the training track with such a young squad.

[bornadog]

Agree and also possibly to have some senior leadership out on the training track with such a young squad.

Hopefully he stays around and plays VFL for us.

[Bulldog Revolution]

Hopefully he stays around and plays VFL for us.

He's a class act at VFL level and seemed to have great chemistry with Jong and Johannisen in particular

[Murphy'sLore]

Now which Boyd are we talking about? We have 2 now :)

I realise its Tom but we dont want the ambiguity in the future :) Did we decide on Toms nickname yet?

Tom Tom, because he'll take us where we need to go.
(apologies if someone else has already come up with this rather obvious suggestion)

[Greystache]

He's a class act at VFL level and seemed to have great chemistry with Jong and Johannisen in particular

I wouldn't be surprised if it's part of his upcoming role as Footscray captain. Perhaps in conjunction with an off field role at the club.

He's a great man to have around the place.

[G-Mo77]

I wouldn't be surprised if it's part of his upcoming role as Footscray captain. Perhaps in conjunction with an off field role at the club.

He's a great man to have around the place.

This. Would love him to stay around in one way or another.

[bornadog]

Latest vision from training:


http://youtu.be/Lxc3n_7O3NA?list=UUCYdpsLzNPQpmOdZt_a7DNA

[Axe Man]

An interesting post on Big Footy (occasionally there is some useful information there!) from a poster (Golden_6) that watched training yesterday:


Few notes from today:
- Honey and Boyd were doing light work, didn't join the main group at all. Both look fine but assuming Honey has something that needs to be managed.
- Campbell in a sling, not sure if this is common knowledge. Was doing light running and bike work.
- Morris, Campbell, Smith, Honey and Boyd didnt train and spent time on the bike.
- Senior players split up into 2 groups for time trial (fairly sure it was just random groups).
- Goodes won the first one just ahead of Boyd.
- Second run, Dickson led the whole way until Stevens pushed past in the last 100m (was very impressive).
- Grant was an absolute mile off the pace. Finished half a lap behind the winner and was 100m behind 2nd last (Roughead).
- Beveridge didn't do too much at training, just sat back and watched mostly and spoke to the assistants.
- Didn't spot Monty anywhere, not sure how much you can read into that.
- Saw Shane Biggs in training gear but didnt spot him anywhere on the field so would have been doing work inside.
- Bont's kicking over 50m was absolutely sublime, gave me tingles ;)
- Younger guys did a short running session after the older guys had finished.
- Darley ran very well (am expecting him to be starting 22 next year).
- Stringer still needs to do a LOT of work on his tank. Looked to be struggling.
- Hamling did about 30 mins of kicking practice away from the group with Joel Corey. Working mostly on ball drop because he was really struggling, especially in the windy conditions.

Will the penny ever drop for Grant? That simply isn't good enough.

[F'scary]

Few notes from today:
- Honey and Boyd were doing light work, didn't join the main group at all. Both look fine but assuming Honey has something that needs to be managed.
- Campbell in a sling, not sure if this is common knowledge. Was doing light running and bike work.
- Morris, Campbell, Smith, Honey and Boyd didnt train and spent time on the bike.
- Senior players split up into 2 groups for time trial (fairly sure it was just random groups).
- Goodes won the first one just ahead of Boyd.
- Second run, Dickson led the whole way until Stevens pushed past in the last 100m (was very impressive).
- Grant was an absolute mile off the pace. Finished half a lap behind the winner and was 100m behind 2nd last (Roughead).
- Beveridge didn't do too much at training, just sat back and watched mostly and spoke to the assistants.
- Didn't spot Monty anywhere, not sure how much you can read into that.
- Saw Shane Biggs in training gear but didnt spot him anywhere on the field so would have been doing work inside.
- Bont's kicking over 50m was absolutely sublime, gave me tingles
- Younger guys did a short running session after the older guys had finished.
- Darley ran very well (am expecting him to be starting 22 next year).
- Stringer still needs to do a LOT of work on his tank. Looked to be struggling.
- Hamling did about 30 mins of kicking practice away from the group with Joel Corey. Working mostly on ball drop because he was really struggling, especially in the windy conditions.

Intriguing.

The Great Train Robber doing an inside job.

Hamlet practicing kicking: forward line (CHF) role?

[1eyedog]

I like Hamling, such an impressive junior I hope something comes of him. I love getting talls for free.

[bornadog]

Latest vision from training:


http://youtu.be/Lxc3n_7O3NA?list=UUCYdpsLzNPQpmOdZt_a7DNA

Good to hear Crameri talking about next season.

[LostDoggy]

Good to hear Crameri talking about next season.

2016?

[Bulldog4life]

Some pics of the boys training.

http://www.aflphotos.com.au/galleries/results/?q=collection:AFL%202014%20Training%20-%20Western%20Bulldogs%20191114&image_id=354074

[Pedro Sanchez]

It may just be my positive imagination, but the Drink looks to command a stern yet likable presence in the huddle. Can’t help but like him more and more.

Bring on season 2015 I say. The most excited I’ve anticipated a footy season in years.

[azabob]

Man I can't stand "the drink" as a nickname.

[LostDoggy]

man i can't stand "the drink" as a nickname.

bulldog bevo????

[Twodogs]

bulldog bevo????

Just Bulldog. The guy looks like a bulldog.

[F'scary]

Man I can't stand "the drink" as a nickname.

How about "Wide-Open Beveridge"?

[Bulldog4life]

Read somewhere that when he played his nickname was Beaver.

[F'scary]

I think that settles it.

[LostDoggy]

Gee its hard not to love Bonti.
Agree. Best not to try. :)

He does look a little like Bonti. We should disguise him as Bonti before games and see if we can create a mis match with their opponents.
We should give him any number in the 40s and instruct him to stand just so… Then when Hamster snatches the one hand mark in the defending goal square, baulks 7 forwards and delivers a 100m torp right on the chest of Tom Boyd streaming out of our goal square, the deception will be complete.

Read somewhere that when he played his nickname was Beaver.
**comment deleted**

[Twodogs]

We should give him any number in the 40s and instruct him to stand just so… Then when Hamster snatches the one hand mark in the defending goal square, baulks 7 forwards and delivers a 100m torp right on the chest of Tom Boyd streaming out of our goal square, the deception will be complete


We should line them up back to back so the opposition can't tell which one is Bont and which one is Bont lite until the ball gets near them.

Actually I like your idea better.

[BornInDroopSt'54]

Read somewhere that when he played his nickname was Beaver.

You and I are old enough to remember "Leave it to Beaver":)

[Bulldog4life]

You and I are old enough to remember "Leave it to Beaver":)

Who can forget the Cleavers. The perfect family.

[F'scary]

Who can forget the Cleavers. The perfect family.

Are we to infer therefore that the name of the TV show character was Beaver Cleaver?

[Twodogs]

Are we to infer therefore that the name of the TV show character was Beaver Cleaver?

Theodore I think. Beaver was a nickname.

[BornInDroopSt'54]

Are we to infer therefore that the name of the TV show character was Beaver Cleaver?

Everything you say is a reflection of yourself. Obviously you suspect you are a beaver cleaver and you come from a long line of beaver cleavers. Yet you are enhanced by also being Theodore Footscary.

[1eyedog]

Just Bulldog. The guy looks like a bulldog.

Massive guns

[bornadog]

You and I are old enough to remember "Leave it to Beaver":)


http://youtu.be/ULK_PNaS6d0

[BornInDroopSt'54]

http://youtu.be/ULK_PNaS6d0

Wayne Carey playing the older Cleaver brother.

[LostDoggy]

You mean Wally?

[Bulldog4life]

Theodore I think. Beaver was a nickname.

That's correct.

[Bulldog4life]

You mean Wally?

Yes and don't forget arch enemy Eddie Haskell.

[bornadog]

Give me 22 games next year please

http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/Media/Images/354093-tlsgallerylandscape.jpg

[bornadog]

The Boss in action

http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/Media/Images/354118-tlsgallerylandscape.jpg

[F'scary]

Everything you say is a reflection of yourself. Obviously you suspect you are a beaver cleaver and you come from a long line of beaver cleavers. Yet you are enhanced by also being Theodore Footscary.

I like Existentialism and therefore agree with you BIDS.

[Greystache]

I went along to training yesterday, a few notes.

Coach not really involved, just watched from the middle.

Biggs looks to have a very definite role. In all the match play drills he was a regular go to kicker and he used it nicely. Not sure I can see him winning a lot of his own ball based on what I saw.

Bonti stood out as being noticeably fitter than the other players. He racked up touches because he could get to more places than the others.

Roberts has lost noticeable size on his right arm post surgery. He'll need to do a massive amount of work over the summer.

Macrae just knocks up getting the ball. It seems to find him no matter where he is, it's pretty amazing.

Boyd still doing work on the bike and didn't get involved.

Pearce, Greenwood, and Goodes all there. The coaches regularly highlight things Goodes does to other players, and ask him to provide feedback to what a player did wrong during a drill and why. He looks like a playing coach.

No Z Cordy, but Ayce still looks like the work experience kid that they've let train with the players.

The coaching staff regularly ride Stringer to push himself and work harder. He gets singled out quite a bit.

[Twodogs]

Did you see the handball games they played 'stache?

I think the groups are divided into two so I only had time to see the game involving the first group but I thought Libba monstered it. He'd just run up the ground with the ball and nobody could stop him. Smith stood at one end and critiqued them at the end of each play and yelled plenty of encouragement as well. Joel Corey was at the other end. The coach stood on the boundary and and made a few points about positioning and then talked to Tom Boyd ( I think it was Boyd) for a while.

[Greystache]

I did TD. It was mainly that game I was referring to with regard to Bonti and Macrae.

[Twodogs]

I did TD. It was mainly that game I was referring to with regard to Bonti and Macrae.


You may have seen the one after the one I saw. They were just starting off as I left. Bonti and Macrae didn't play in the one I saw. Libba, Greenwood, Hunter, Minson, Redpath (?), Jong, and half a dozen others

[doggies ftw]

Really good read, cheers for that guys!


Bonti stood out as being noticeably fitter than the other players. He racked up touches because he could get to more places than the others.

Love this bit, ridiculous to think this kid hasn't even turned 19 yet!

[bornadog]

Really good read, cheers for that guys!


Love this bit, ridiculous to think this kid hasn't even turned 19 yet!

Turns 19 tomorrow:)

[Eastdog]

Thanks for the report Greystache.

[LostDoggy]

Did anyone get to Open Training yesterday?

[LostDoggy]

Yeh I went down.

Saw Monti, so he is back up and about. Other ccoaches were Smith, Gia, Corey, King, Maple and Hansen. Look a good team of coaches? Giving plenty of direction.

Boyd was doing some running with TC, with TC always setting the pace and Boyd labouring a bit. Would have liked to see Boyd with a bit more mongel trying to beat TC but quite happy to always finish a couple of strides behind. Both didn't take part in any drills.

Honey and Clay doing hand ball work, don't know why Honey is not training with the main group?

They did some forward entry drills, Bont just makes the right decision every time and hits his targets. Rough, Talia and Fletcher out there all looking good.

Z Cordy was out there for the first half of drills and really looked like he fit in well, was really digging in and certainly didn't look out of his depth. Ayce on the other hand still looks like Gumby. Big Red really putting in, looks to have lightened off his frame a little bit and moving a bit better.

Hand ball game looks a good drill, only saw one group Jongy was basically unstoppable, really think he will make a name for shelf this year, although did see some absolute shanks I'm some of his drills.

Goal kicking drill at the end whereby the whole team basically sledge the bloke coming in to kick for goal. Stringer referred to as father of the year on more than one occasion!

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Thanks for that MCL.

Good to hear some positive mentions for the likes of Roughy, Talia, Roberts, Redpath and Jong. All pretty important players if they can play well.

What days/times is training next week? I plan to head down to one.

[doggies ftw]

Yeh I went down.

Saw Monti, so he is back up and about. Other ccoaches were Smith, Gia, Corey, King, Maple and Hansen. Look a good team of coaches? Giving plenty of direction.

Boyd was doing some running with TC, with TC always setting the pace and Boyd labouring a bit. Would have liked to see Boyd with a bit more mongel trying to beat TC but quite happy to always finish a couple of strides behind. Both didn't take part in any drills.

Honey and Clay doing hand ball work, don't know why Honey is not training with the main group?

They did some forward entry drills, Bont just makes the right decision every time and hits his targets. Rough, Talia and Fletcher out there all looking good.

Z Cordy was out there for the first half of drills and really looked like he fit in well, was really digging in and certainly didn't look out of his depth. Ayce on the other hand still looks like Gumby. Big Red really putting in, looks to have lightened off his frame a little bit and moving a bit better.

Hand ball game looks a good drill, only saw one group Jongy was basically unstoppable, really think he will make a name for shelf this year, although did see some absolute shanks I'm some of his drills.

Goal kicking drill at the end whereby the whole team basically sledge the bloke coming in to kick for goal. Stringer referred to as father of the year on more than one occasion!

Cheers mate appreciate it, how did Talias disposal look? Seems to be improving quite a bit.

Did you see Wallis, someone on BF has said he apparently rehurt his foot which has me a little worried, can anyone here confirm or deny that?

[Twodogs]

Thanks for that MCL.

Good to hear some positive mentions for the likes of Roughy, Talia, Roberts, Redpath and Jong. All pretty important players if they can play well.

What days/times is training next week? I plan to head down to one.

They do some training most mornings but the big session is Thursday morning.

[LostDoggy]

I saw Wallis train the whole time. He even was having a couple of shots at goal after the rest of the team went inside. So unless he has done something after the main session, I didn't see anything untoward.

[LostDoggy]

Cheers mate appreciate it, how did Talias disposal look? Seems to be improving quite a bit.

Did you see Wallis, someone on BF has said he apparently rehurt his foot which has me a little worried, can anyone here confirm or deny that?

Tails looked really good to my eye? He's a big boy, mistook him for T BOYD when I arrived, same hair, same tan, similar physique. Skills looked OK, tbh apart from Bont, they're all a bit scratchy but it's early days.

I think he'll be OK, really hope he is given enough chances at senior level this year. Personally I see us finishing bottom 3 anyway, so we need to throw caution to the a bit and get some development into these guys.

[LostDoggy]

Thanks for those comprehensive reports.

[bornadog]

New Recruits training


http://youtu.be/4hKlr-xSgIs?list=UUCYdpsLzNPQpmOdZt_a7DNA

[The Bulldogs Bite]

I went along this morning and had a look. There wasn't much to report on - a bit of running, some basic skill drills etc. Anyhow, some observations I made are:

- Skill level fairly poor and needs work. Even basic kicking drills with anticipated mild pressure we regularly missed targets.
- Jong and Talia both looked pretty good. They look very strong and fit - it's noticeable. Jong used his pace in some competitive drills a few times which really stood out. In one instance he was confronted by Wallis, composed himself, then ran around Wallis and absolutely burned him off and made him look like he was crawling. Skill level was good too. Talia looks in great condition and defensively was very good in a few drills with both his anticipation and spoiling.
- Still a few players not in main training including Boyd, Campbell, Prudden, Honeychurch, Kelly, Macrae and Roarke. All did their own thing - some light running/skills work. I didn't spot the likes of Goodes, Clay, Morris and one or two others.
- The new draftees look really raw, but I liked the way Bailey Dale moved. Whilst he was fresh he looked quite quick and agile, took some nice marks with arms extended and hit targets by foot. Caleb Daniel was impressive early too - doesn't like wasting a ball, has the ability to hold onto the ball and move around until an option presents - great composure and his skill level is good. Hamilton was quiet, Maclean did a couple of nice things in traffic, didn't see Webb out there.
- Cordy (Ayce) was terrible. Sounds harsh, but he missed basic targets by foot and dropped the ball/couldn't pick it up a few times. A couple of laughs were had.
- Bont looks in great condition. It's fun to watch him go about it, even on the training track. He makes it look effortless. Some of his handballs in traffic were sublime, he moved really well and I didn't see him miss a target by foot - some of them were 40/50m passes to advantage. He's the best young talent I've seen.

[Twodogs]

I went along this morning and had a look. There wasn't much to report on - a bit of running, some basic skill drills etc. Anyhow, some observations I made are:

Did my eyes deceive me or did I see Will Minson do a running somersault when he was on his way to the boundary to pick up a stray ball?



- Skill level fairly poor and needs work. Even basic kicking drills with anticipated mild pressure we regularly missed targets.

The coach is very keen on them though.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Did my eyes deceive me or did I see Will Minson do a running somersault when he was on his way to the boundary to pick up a stray ball?

I must have missed that!


The coach is very keen on them though.

It's nice to see us doing these kinds of drills because if we can't execute there we have no chance of executing under real game pressure.

Just to add a few more notes:

- Murphy is just a class above. The way he moves, his composure and his ability to hit targets by either foot is elite. I have a feeling the captaincy will reinvigorate Bobby. Having heard him talk over the past 12-18 months he's mentioned a few times how tough it's been mentally. I think being appointed Captain might freshen him up from that perspective.

- Grant is the ultimate tease. He moved well in certain drills, showed he has a high footy IQ with some great contested body work, took some fine one grab marks on the stretch when most would have dropped them but then he'd turn the ball over with a terrible 15m pass.

- Hamling moves well and his skills looked OK from the small sample I saw. In one of the drills, he was briefly matched up on Bonti as a defender. He found himself out of position via a pretty good kick that was going over his head to Bonti and looked gone, but he somehow was able to track back and get a fist to the footy. His progress will be interesting.

[Go_Dogs]

Thanks for the reports, going to be an interesting summer.

[Twodogs]

I must have missed that!

It was right at the very end. A ball had ended up near the boundary on the members wing and Will went to get it. He was running at a fair clip and just before he got there, he flipped over and did a star jump. A few guys on the boundary gave him a cheer and Will gave a little bow.




It's nice to see us doing these kinds of drills because if we can't execute there we have no chance of executing under real game pressure.


Yep. It's good to see the footys (and soccer balls) out so early on.

[LostDoggy]

It was right at the very end. A ball had ended up near the boundary on the members wing and Will went to get it. He was running at a fair clip and just before he got there, he flipped over and did a star jump. A few guys on the boundary gave him a cheer and Will gave a little bow.

I'd love to see this during a game. Would be awesome.

[Twodogs]

I'd love to see this during a game. Would be awesome.


It was pretty impressive to see. Of course if he broke his wrist while he was doing it...

[F'scary]

- Hamling moves well and his skills looked OK from the small sample I saw. In one of the drills, he was briefly matched up on Bonti as a defender. He found himself out of position via a pretty good kick that was going over his head to Bonti and looked gone, but he somehow was able to track back and get a fist to the footy. His progress will be interesting.

Go Hamlet.

[LostDoggy]

Just got re-trenched at work. On the positive side, I'm gonna get a lot of fishing and Doggies training sessions in.

[bornadog]

Just got re-trenched at work. On the positive side, I'm gonna get a lot of fishing and Doggies training sessions in.

That sucks and right before Christmas, typical of companies. Good luck for a new job.

[Twodogs]

Just got re-trenched at work. On the positive side, I'm gonna get a lot of fishing and Doggies training sessions in.

Sorry to hear it but sometimes something like being retrenched turns out to be the best thing to happen to you. It opens up heaps of opportunities.

[Remi Moses]

Just got re-trenched at work. On the positive side, I'm gonna get a lot of fishing and Doggies training sessions in.

That stinks . Know how you feel, as I reckon I spent 3 of the first five years of the 90's unemployed .

[LostDoggy]

Thanks guys, it's all good, actually it presents a few opportunities to liven my career up a bit and take it in a new direction, with a decent payout hopefully too, as I gave eight years service.

And.

I get to heaps of preseason training too.

[F'scary]

Thanks guys, it's all good, actually it presents a few opportunities to liven my career up a bit and take it in a new direction, with a decent payout hopefully too, as I gave eight years service.

And.

I get to heaps of preseason training too.

Hope everything sorts itself out workwise and remember, there is always the footy.

[Twodogs]

Hope everything sorts itself out workwise and remember, there is always the footy.


Yeah. Thinking about all the success we've enjoyed brightens the darkest day up instantly.

[GVGjr]

Thanks guys, it's all good, actually it presents a few opportunities to liven my career up a bit and take it in a new direction, with a decent payout hopefully too, as I gave eight years service.


That's exactly the way to approach it. The skills most people learn at their jobs especially over a good period of time are genuinely highly transferable.



I get to heaps of preseason training too.

Looking forward to some reports.

[bornadog]

Thanks guys, it's all good, actually it presents a few opportunities to liven my career up a bit and take it in a new direction, with a decent payout hopefully too, as I gave eight years service.

And.

I get to heaps of preseason training too.

Bulldogs are looking for a media person, not sure if that is your area?

[Cyberdoggie]

Just got re-trenched at work. On the positive side, I'm gonna get a lot of fishing and Doggies training sessions in.

Nice early xmas present that one is.

At least you will enjoy the warmer weather and get the chance to freshen up for a new job while watching the boys train.

[bornadog]

Join the Bulldogs for Christmas Open Training Session


http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/Media/Images/354046-tlsnewsportrait.jpg
Robert Murphy of the Bulldogs in action during the Western Bulldogs training session at Whitten Oval, Melbourne on November 19, 2014. (Photo: Michael Willson/AFL Media)


To celebrate the festive season with the Bulldogs family, the Western Bulldogs will be holding an open training on Saturday 13 December, 2014 at Victoria University Whitten Oval commencing at 8:30am.

Come and see the new draftees get put their paces, and wish your favourite player a Merry Christmas.
- Players will be available for autographs after training
- Get your photo with Santa and meet Woofer
- Gifts for all the little Bulldogs fans
- Purchase the new BLK merchandise
- Buy your 2015 Membership

Date: Saturday 13th December 2014
Time: 8:30am – 10:00am
Location: Victoria University Whitten Oval, 417 Barkly St, West Footscray
*Not all players are guaranteed to be in attendance
*Parking is limited. We recommend using public transport if possible, as Whitten Oval is only a short stroll from West Footscray train station.

westernbulldogs.com.au (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/2014-12-05/christmas-open-training?camefrom=EMCL_474252_21220207)

[Smads57]

Went to the final Inside the Kennel event at WO this evening where all 9 draft picks were presented and invited to speak on various topics by MC Kevin Hillier. Before the draftees were presented however, Kevin spoke to Simon D about his thoughts/strategy around this year's draft. SD was quite comfortable sharing with Kevin the rationale for the picks ie best available, and made reference to Jayden Foster as simply not being in this category within the 5 picks we had to pick 46. He gave a bit of background around the thinking that had gone into considering Jayden including him being an over age player, how he scored his goals, his capacity to keep the ball in the fwd line and his ability to be more than a single position option. SD mentioned they would have considered him for the Rookie draft if he was still available.

The interview with the 9 players was terrific covering various topics like who they supported growing up, what their junior career looked like, what studies they were pursuing, what was draft night like for them.

I think we have a couple of characters especially Hamling and Zaine Cordy who has been tagged with the nickname Jagger by Hamling/Biggs as he has some fancy moves that interest the ladies.

It was interesting to see the camaraderie already between Cordy, Hamling and Biggs who seemed to enjoy having some friendly banter amongst themselves.

Big Tom advised he has been nicknamed Junior by Matty Boyd, while his nickname for Matty is Pops.

When asked who he barracked for growing up, Caleb Daniel said he supported no team - he was too focussed on simply playing football.

All in all a great night that allowed the attending supporters some further insights into these kids.

[Go_Dogs]

Thanks Smads, great report.

[soupman]

Just a couple of things noticed by Pre-season observers over on BF.

-Drills have had an emphasis on quick ball movement and matchday type running
-Mostly match simulation type drills
-Wood has been training as a forward target
-Lot of work on footskills including under pressure

[kruder]

Just a couple of things noticed by Pre-season observers over on BF.

-Drills have had an emphasis on quick ball movement and matchday type running
-Mostly match simulation type drills
-Wood has been training as a forward target
-Lot of work on footskills including under pressure

Interesting that quite a few of the training watches are really bullish on Caleb. I'd be stunned if Mclean doesn't make it so that could be another two players added to the best 22 in years to come.

[Maddog37]

The club is very bullish on Cordy too so that should be at least three.

[Twodogs]

Just a couple of things noticed by Pre-season observers over on BF.

-Drills have had an emphasis on quick ball movement and matchday type running
-Mostly match simulation type drills
-Wood has been training as a forward target
-Lot of work on footskills including under pressure

The drills involve a few games. One is a handball type game, one side handballing and the other defending. If the ball hits the ground it's a turnover and the defending side take the ball. There is a target at each end off a pitch that the teams are aiming to hit. The mids seem to play that game a lot. All the emphasis is on running forward of the contest and creating options.

The defenders play endless games of futball.

[Twodogs]

I went past the ground this morning and there was quite a crowd there.

Did anyone go down to training today?

[Smads57]

The drills involve a few games. One is a handball type game, one side handballing and the other defending. If the ball hits the ground it's a turnover and the defending side take the ball. There is a target at each end off a pitch that the teams are aiming to hit.

They were conducting this drill at the open training session this morning Twodogs. Fortunately they set up close to the boundary line so the spectators got a good view of the performance of the players. In the drill it was quite noticeable the body size of McLean and Dale, but they weren't standing back either.

While at the training session, got to see big Tom line up for goal as part of a separate drill - nice action considering the wind being a bit what you would expect at WO. Really liked the peg on Stringer as well in one particular drill - looking forward to watching him play in the season proper.

Running the boundary was Roarke (have I spelt that right?) Smith - has a great athletes physique so looking forward to catching him in some drills at a future open training session.

It was surprising how hard it was to identify some players without numbers on their backs and found I tended to focus on players with things like lime green boots (Strings), sunscreen plastered across his nose (Libba), or Caleb/big Tom for their obvious height characteristics.

Going back to Libba - really liked how he want up to a number of the younger players at the end of the formal training session and just acknowledged their efforts.

[Go_Dogs]

Going back to Libba - really liked how he want up to a number of the younger players at the end of the formal training session and just acknowledged their efforts.

Great to read, thanks.

I imagine he'd be a pretty good example on the track, a popular team mate and someone a lot of the younger players wish to emulate - given how quickly he's established himself as a top line player.

[choconmientay]

Some pics from the training

https://www.flickr.com/photos/111272802@N04/15825019337/lightbox/

Some of the guys were quite physical in their tackling. JJ was hurt in a tackle but ran it off.

[always right]

Brilliant photos Choco.

[Greystache]

I went along yesterday, some observations.

The skills looked better in the full ground drills than they had previously. There was an obvious attempt to fatigue the players before they got the ball. They would do a full run down the ground ending in a shot on goal, then that group would do some interval runs around the boundary line and then go again. Some of the better skilled players stood out like Hrovat.

The usual handball mini game was far more physical than normal. Players were tackling and there were fend offs, shepherding, and attempts to break tackles with no holding the ball.

Daniel was a standout in this drill, he's very composed, like to have the ball in a crowd, and is not shy about being physical.

Jong had every coach and player screaming at him every time he got the ball to take players on. When he puts on the jets no one can go with him.

Bonti was the best player because he's just better than the rest. He looks like a veteran helping the kids. He also looks incredible at the moment.

Boyd Jr trained fully for the first time that I've seen. He was moving surprisingly well and holding his own in the endurance running which was a pleasant surprise. He runs beautifully for a big man, and is well ahead of the perennial back marker type players like a Jones or a Grant. Looks ready to play senior footy.

Tom Campbell looks to have lost a bit of weight.

I had my bulldog with me so couldn't watch as closely as I normally might.

[Go_Dogs]

Thanks Stache.

Is Bontempelli a chance to play significant minutes in the centre square this coming season?

Also, great to read about Boyd. The expectations will, understandably, be quite significant but if he can run, he's going to be well positioned to play a lot of football, and make an impact.

[Go_Dogs]

One player I haven't heard mentioned much thus far, is Jack Macrae. How is he tracking?

[F'scary]

I went along yesterday, some observations.

...

Boyd Jr trained fully for the first time that I've seen. He was moving surprisingly well and holding his own in the endurance running which was a pleasant surprise. He runs beautifully for a big man, and is well ahead of the perennial back marker type players like a Jones or a Grant. Looks ready to play senior footy.

...

That is good news indeed, because there is no way that he can be provided with "development" games in the VFL given all the facts about him, the way he has come to the club and our desperate need for a quality KPF.

[Greystache]

One player I haven't heard mentioned much thus far, is Jack Macrae. How is he tracking?

I didn't notice him much yesterday, but he did train. In the sessions I've seen previously he'd stood out for his ability to continually get his hands on the footy.

[Dry Rot]

Any news on Fuller?

[Greystache]

Any news on Fuller?

He trained. He did a brutal extra session after all the other players finished. The focus was on second and third efforts- Wrestle a coach on the ground, tackle a bag, get up and pick up a ball and try to break a tackle, back onto the ground and repeat. He was getting smashed.

[Twodogs]

He trained. He did a brutal extra session after all the other players finished. The focus was on second and third efforts- Wrestle a coach on the ground, tackle a bag, get up and pick up a ball and try to break a tackle, back onto the ground and repeat. He was getting smashed.


He did one of those on the ground earlier in the week after everyone else had finished too. From memory it was Rohan Smith who took him through it.

[Dry Rot]

Thanks guys.

Interesting drill he did. Lot of competition for him now as a small defender, with Biggs, Darley, maybe Webb etc

[Pickenitup]

Went and had a look yesterday and out of our draftees can only see Daniel And Webb getting a game.
Webb moves well and is a beautiful kick.Daniel is going to be a star.
Tom Boyd looks huge cant wait to see him play.
Hamling is very thin not sure about him as a defender maybe a third tall forward.

[LostDoggy]

Jackson McRae trained and did well in most drills that I saw. His hair is quite a bit longer but the unmistakable left foot passes were very much still in evidence.

[Mofra]

That is good news indeed, because there is no way that he can be provided with "development" games in the VFL given all the facts about him, the way he has come to the club and our desperate need for a quality KPF.
We have to play at least one tall and Boyd looks a better bet in 2015 that either Redpath or what Jones would have been.

[China Dog]

The more you read about the training regimes at other clubs this pre-season, the more I get a little nervous about where we might fit next year in relation to fitness, speed and strength. It seems that a number of clubs have upped the ante on pre-season training, with Port, Melbourne, Brisbane, the Bombers and the Saints, all undertaking gruelling sessions to improve their overall positions next season. I haven't heard very much in the press on the level of training intensity at the Dogs and would be interested to understand how it has been going from those who have been attending any of the recent training sessions.

[SlimPickens]

The more you read about the training regimes at other clubs this pre-season, the more I get a little nervous about where we might fit next year in relation to fitness, speed and strength. It seems that a number of clubs have upped the ante on pre-season training, with Port, Melbourne, Brisbane, the Bombers and the Saints, all undertaking gruelling sessions to improve their overall positions next season. I haven't heard very much in the press on the level of training intensity at the Dogs and would be interested to understand how it has been going from those who have been attending any of the recent training sessions.

I can assure that the training level is very intense. The players are doing much more in the way of "in game" type running with a big focus of performing drills under fatigue. I'm sure in the coming weeks we'll hear how fit and strong we are. Maybe you haven't heard anything cause Shaun Higgins has left the club and the standard "training the house down" article hasn't been written.

[GVGjr]

The more you read about the training regimes at other clubs this pre-season, the more I get a little nervous about where we might fit next year in relation to fitness, speed and strength. It seems that a number of clubs have upped the ante on pre-season training, with Port, Melbourne, Brisbane, the Bombers and the Saints, all undertaking gruelling sessions to improve their overall positions next season. I haven't heard very much in the press on the level of training intensity at the Dogs and would be interested to understand how it has been going from those who have been attending any of the recent training sessions.

Over the last few years we have been successful at putting some size on many of the younger players on the list and I would think that adding some size for the youngsters on the list probably comes at the expense of genuine running fitness. I think our training so far has focused on drills around fitness, skills and quick ball movement but we would no doubt be putting in the hard yards with the running and the weight work.

[always right]

I can assure that the training level is very intense. The players are doing much more in the way of "in game" type running with a big focus of performing drills under fatigue. I'm sure in the coming weeks we'll hear how fit and strong we are. Maybe you haven't heard anything cause Shaun Higgins has left the club and the standard "training the house down" article hasn't been written.

I have news for you. There was a recent article talking about how Higgins was in fact training the house down at the Kangaroos. Some things never change.

[GVGjr]

I can assure that the training level is very intense. The players are doing much more in the way of "in game" type running with a big focus of performing drills under fatigue. I'm sure in the coming weeks we'll hear how fit and strong we are.

That's good to hear.

[kruder]

The more you read about the training regimes at other clubs this pre-season, the more I get a little nervous about where we might fit next year in relation to fitness, speed and strength. It seems that a number of clubs have upped the ante on pre-season training, with Port, Melbourne, Brisbane, the Bombers and the Saints, all undertaking gruelling sessions to improve their overall positions next season. I haven't heard very much in the press on the level of training intensity at the Dogs and would be interested to understand how it has been going from those who have been attending any of the recent training sessions.

I wouldn't be worried too much we never really crack it in the press.

Id much rather our club get the job done rather than beating their own drum like Mick Malthouse trying to improve his image in and via the media. One things for sure Carlton is the new Richmond and gee that makes me happy.

[F'scary]

The more you read about the training regimes at other clubs this pre-season, the more I get a little nervous about where we might fit next year in relation to fitness, speed and strength. It seems that a number of clubs have upped the ante on pre-season training, with Port, Melbourne, Brisbane, the Bombers and the Saints, all undertaking gruelling sessions to improve their overall positions next season. I haven't heard very much in the press on the level of training intensity at the Dogs and would be interested to understand how it has been going from those who have been attending any of the recent training sessions.

You can also train too much, too early. But I like what SlimPickens is reporting. Seems that Bevo has gotten straight to the point of his role: reshaping the way we play and increasing decision making skills.

[LostDoggy]

When do the boys start for 2015?

[Twodogs]

When do the boys start for 2015?


Monday I think.

[boydogs]

Can't recall where, but I saw a pic of Nathan Hrovat looking very bulked up recently

[GVGjr]

I can assure that the training level is very intense. The players are doing much more in the way of "in game" type running with a big focus of performing drills under fatigue. I'm sure in the coming weeks we'll hear how fit and strong we are. Maybe you haven't heard anything cause Shaun Higgins has left the club and the standard "training the house down" article hasn't been written.


I read an article this morning that West Coast are working on the same theme.

[F'scary]

I read an article this morning that West Coast are working on the same theme.

No, they will be performing drills under the influence.

[Twodogs]

No, they will be performing drills under the influence.



Have been performing entire sessions under the influence in the past. Allegedly.

[Remi Moses]

For a start Mick's been well told to paint their club in a more positive light.
We're not exactly media darlings at the minute either.
The joint seems relatively happy ( thank god) than it was in Shoctober

[KT31]

For a start Mick's been well told to paint their club in a more positive light.
We're not exactly media darlings at the minute either.
The joint seems relatively happy ( thank god) than it was in Shoctober

That was back in BB, it's now AB and we couldn't be happier.:)

[Twodogs]

It's going to be awesome watching TB bossing defenders around in a couple of years.

[Go_Dogs]

Anyone get down to training today?

[Twodogs]

Anyone get down to training today?

Missed it.

[Twodogs]

A lot of emphasis was put into team work, moving the ball and vision in that session pre Christmas. With the games and the drills.


Has anyone been? Are they still doing the same thing or have they changed?

[Eastdog]

For woofers who have been to quite a few training sessions since the beginning of pre season which of our players over the time have really stood out and which have struggled?

[bornadog]

Dogs 'energised' by Beveridge, says Picken (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/2015-01-11/dogs-lap-up-beveridge)


The arrival of Luke Beveridge at the Whitten Oval has re-energised the Western Bulldogs’ playing group, according to tagger Liam Picken.

After an exhaustive search, the Bulldogs appointed Beveridge as their new senior coach in November last year, following the resignation of Brendan McCartney a day after 2014 skipper Ryan Griffen left for Greater Western Sydney.
Picken told westernbulldogs.com.au Beveridge's arrival had brought some stability and positivity back to the club.
"I think when there is a change at any club you feel more energised, particularly at the start of the year," Picken said.
"Not only have we got a new coach but we've got 12 new guys and with so many young guys at the club, there's just a really good feel.
"All the boys have really responded well to Luke. We're all training really well and overall we're just excited to have him on board."

The players returned to the club earlier this week with the list in relatively good condition.
Nearly every player participated in Thursday's gruelling three-hour training session, with defender Dale Morris, ruckman Tom Campbell and midfielder Clay Smith the only players training away from the main group.
Having spent the past three seasons as an assistant coach at Hawthorn, Beveridge has brought his own flavour to the Bulldogs' pre-season training regime.

No goals have been set for the season proper as yet, but the club is hopeful of building on last season's seven wins despite having lost more than 800 games of experience in the off-season.
"I think generally the whole playing group feels we need to lift and help each other this year," Picken said.
"There are so many guys here in the younger age bracket that are hoping to step up and help everyone. We just need to share the load."

[F'scary]

Got down to training but was severely kid encumbered which limited my time and ability to observe the action. My observations are as follows:

Will Minson: appears to have toned up a bit and perhaps lost a few kilos on last season. He looked very athletic and had no trouble getting off the ground for marking and handball receives.

Jordan Roughead: likewise moving well and showing no signs of the 2014 shoulder injury.

Hamlet looks like he is plenty big and strong enough to hold down a KP if he is good enough.

Boydosaur Jnr did not appear to be on the oval.

There was one of our younger small-mid players who has a very blond page boy hairstyle. Wasn't sure if this was Caleb Daniel. If it was, then good that he wears the helmet. If it wasn't, someone do the kid a favour and encourage him to get a haircut. Perhaps it was Roarke Smith on second thoughts. Very fair complexion. Clarification on identity required.

Stevens, Jong, Wood, Picken, Wallis and Crameri all seemed particularly keen and committed in the two drills I got to watch. There was some good robust body contact in the second drill, a handball in traffic affair, which pleased all the punters watching, including me.

The players were split into two groups on either wing with Bevo watching from the centre circle. The training drills were timed and at their conclusion the two groups were whistled into the centre to receive instructions and feed back. Steven King was very hands on and vocal directing the group on the members stand wing which was the group closest to me and from which my observations are drawn.

[F'scary]

I will add one more observation from this morning: Talia has developed a real Tarzan physique.

[bornadog]

I will add one more observation from this morning: Talia has developed a real Tarzan physique.

Thanks for the updates, sounds positive.

[F'scary]

Thanks for the updates, sounds positive.

No probs, BAD. I am going to try and make Thursday's training session, this time by myself.

[The Underdog]

No probs, BAD. I am going to try and make Thursday's training session, this time by myself.

Do you know what time Thursday is?

[bornadog]

Do you know what time Thursday is?

9.20am

[The Underdog]

9.20am

Thanks, that might work

[Twodogs]

I will add one more observation from this morning: Talia has WWI developed a real Tarzan physique.


He's really built up.

[Smads57]

[QUOTE=F'scary;418681] Will Minson: appears to have toned up a bit and perhaps lost a few kilos on last season. He looked very athletic /QUOTE]

Was at WO early Sat morning and big Will was doing a lap with some other players and I also thought he was looking less heavy.

[F'scary]

[QUOTE=F'scary;418681] Will Minson: appears to have toned up a bit and perhaps lost a few kilos on last season. He looked very athletic /QUOTE]

Was at WO early Sat morning and big Will was doing a lap with some other players and I also thought he was looking less heavy.

Looking at him move today, it was a very different picture to how he was lumbering around during some games last season. That back problem he developed over the 2013/14 off season (apparently it started with a long return drive to Qld, IIRC) must have hampered him more than we realised at the time. Big Will always seems to find novel ways to make himself crook.

[azabob]

[QUOTE=Smads57;418726]

Looking at him move today, it was a very different picture to how he was lumbering around during some games last season. That back problem he developed over the 2013/14 off season (apparently it started with a long return drive to Qld, IIRC) must have hampered him more than we realised at the time. Big Will always seems to find novel ways to make himself crook.

I think also studdying for his engineering exams.

[Eastdog]

Thanks for the report F'scary. Really appreciate the training reports fellow Bulldog supporters give for the Bulldogs supporters that can't make it.

[F'scary]

Thanks for the report F'scary. Really appreciate the training reports fellow Bulldog supporters give for the Bulldogs supporters that can't make it.

Without promising anything, I will see if I can go and do a better job on Thursday - apparently Boyd Jnr was on the park but I managed not to see him even though he was the player I looked to find first (brilliant!).

[Twodogs]

I've mentioned this before but I saw Wil do a somersault (using his hands) a couple of weeks ago. He was chasing a stray footy and had got a bit of a gallop up. It was a pretty agile act for a guy his size.

[Eastdog]

I've mentioned this before but I saw Wil do a somersault (using his hands) a couple of weeks ago. He was chasing a stray footy and had got a bit of a gallop up. It was a pretty agile act for a guy his size.

So from what you have seen at training TD will Big Will have a good 2015?

[Go_Dogs]

Without promising anything, I will see if I can go and do a better job on Thursday - apparently Boyd Jnr was on the park but I managed not to see him even though he was the player I looked to find first (brilliant!).

Thanks for your report today, and look forward to the next one on Thursday. ;)

Anyone care to make any general observations comparing this pre-season to last, insofar as how much running is being done, and how well drilled we are (as in, attention to detail, rather than skill level etc)?

[Twodogs]

So from what you have seen at training TD will Big Will have a good 2015?


I think he will. He looks fit and agile.

[Twodogs]

Thanks for your report today, and look forward to the next one on Thursday. ;)

Anyone care to make any general observations comparing this pre-season to last, insofar as how much running is being done, and how well drilled we are (as in, attention to detail, rather than skill level etc)?

Most of the training has been conducted in groups. There are three or four groups depending on what activities they are doing.

Most of the sessions have been the medium defenders and some mids playing futball while the inside mids play a handball game that relies on run and spread while the other team defends. I hadn't seen training for a while and they've gotten really good at the handball game since I saw them last.

[LostDoggy]

Thanks for your report today, and look forward to the next one on Thursday. ;)

Anyone care to make any general observations comparing this pre-season to last, insofar as how much running is being done, and how well drilled we are (as in, attention to detail, rather than skill level etc)?

I've only seen a couple of sessions, but everything seems much more structured and professional. The changeover in drills seems short and sharp and each coach knows exactly what they need to be doing.

I dropped in for a quick look yesterday, most players were paired up doing running drills while I was there. Was constant jogging, sprinting and walking. It was fairly brutal.

Minson was the clear stand out, was only paired against Hamling but geez he looks fit.

Hunter was another one who was impressive. Can't recall who he was paired with but he powered away from them.

Stringer stood out like anything with his new haircut. He also pantsed Grant in the running.

Brett Goodes looks in incredible nick. He clearly hasn't had a Christmas break. He will absolutely dominate at VFL level this year, can you future bet on the Liston Medal?

[always right]

For the track watchers, what's your impression of Beveridge so far? How much does he impose himself on the training or does he leave it up to the assistants? How does his style differ to McCartney's if at all when it comes to pre-season....if you can make such an observation at this stage?

[bornadog]

Some training vision here (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/video/2015-01-12/new-year-back-on-the-track)

[Go_Dogs]

I've only seen a couple of sessions, but everything seems much more structured and professional. The changeover in drills seems short and sharp and each coach knows exactly what they need to be doing

Thanks. Fits in with what I've heard and is a pretty interesting observation.

The more I hear, the more impressed I am with our new coach.

[Twodogs]

Thanks. Fits in with what I've heard and is a pretty interesting observation.

The more I hear, the more impressed I am with our new coach.


I'm impressed with the structure of the program. Even though the club didn't have a coach for the first few weeks of preseason, nobody seemed to miss a beat. Training was conducted, a couple of the assistants took the opportunity to step up and get their voice heard a bit more often than it normally would. The players worked their programmes. Everyone seemed to know where they should be and what they should be doing.

I was impressed.

[The Dog Father]

There was one of our younger small-mid players who has a very blond page boy hairstyle. Wasn't sure if this was Caleb Daniel. If it was, then good that he wears the helmet. If it wasn't, someone do the kid a favour and encourage him to get a haircut. Perhaps it was Roarke Smith on second thoughts. Very fair complexion. Clarification on identity required.
.

My understanding is that this is father son prospect Darcy McPherson

[Bulldog Joe]

I'm impressed with the structure of the program. Even though the club didn't have a coach for the first few weeks of preseason, nobody seemed to miss a beat. Training was conducted, a couple of the assistants took the opportunity to step up and get their voice heard a bit more often than it normally would. The players worked their programmes. Everyone seemed to know where they should be and what they should be doing.

I was impressed.
Had a report from a friend who is not a poster.

He remarked how professional training looked, being run with military precision, one drill after another.
Saw this a major improvement on what he had seen for the last few years. Commented that it was a big plus for the new coach.Felt that all the players looked to be working very hard to adapt to a new game plan, which was seen as a faster moving game, with a high emphasis on skill, particularly by foot.

I probably should add that he was certainly not ever a Macca man.

[F'scary]

My understanding is that this is father son prospect Darcy McPherson

oh, well if he is a good prospect he can wear his hair anyway he likes.

[Twodogs]

The Academy boys train after or on different days than the seniors. Lets see how good my memory is, West, Romero, Kellet, MacPherson, Smith, Liberatore were the six I saw a month or so ago doing drills.

[Pedro Sanchez]

The Academy boys train after or on different days than the seniors. Lets see how good my memory is, West, Romero, Kellet, MacPherson, Smith, Liberatore were the six I saw a month or so ago doing drills.

Is there any insight on the qaulity of these potential F/S recruits? In particular Scott West's kids and Jose Romero's...

[F'scary]

The Academy boys train after or on different days than the seniors. Lets see how good my memory is, West, Romero, Kellet, MacPherson, Smith, Liberatore were the six I saw a month or so ago doing drills.

Wow, just wow.

[Twodogs]

Is there any insight on the qaulity of these potential F/S recruits? In particular Scott West's kids and Jose Romero's...

They're just a bunch of kids having a kick and doing some simple drills and contesting work. Romero is quite a bit taller than his dad , Smith is pretty solid, Liberatore is small, West could be his dad at that age, Macpherson is a bit like his dad but has bigger features and Kellet looks pretty accomplished.

[Go_Dogs]

Good stuff.

Regardless of whether they end up playing football for us, it's great for the kids and I'm sure something their families enjoy them being involved in too.

[F'scary]

Training Report, Thursday, 15 Jan 2015. Again I was kid encumbered but this time she was prepared to hang around a bit more in one spot at a time.

I got there at 10.20am, in time for full ground match simulation. The players and the coaches gathered in the centre and had it all sorted in about 3 minutes in terms of who was on which team, positions, rule modifications, etc. I was again impressed with the level of organisation shown, there was lots of military precision.

The rules modifications were interesting. If a behind was scored, there was no kick out. Instead there was a ball up at HFF well outside the 50m arc so that team that had scored could try and attack the goals again. When a goal was scored the team who kicked it took the ball down to their defensive goal square and play restarted with them kicking in as if from a behind. The assistant coaches who umpired were red hot on holding the ball, so lots of frees were paid rather than ball ups. The players were encouraged to keep the ball moving from these stoppages. The point of the rules modifications appeared to be to encourage movement and anticipation.

Positions and match-ups (that I noticed): Minson (blue team) and Cordy, A (gold) were the starting rucks. Cordy looked ok. Roughead (blue) seemed to be playing CHB . Hamlet (blue) was deep on Boydosaur Jnr. Stringer (gold) was playing a deep forward role and turned on a couple of customary tricks for the fans who were watching. Biggs (blue) was playing HBF. Murphy (blue) was on the wing.

Ronnie Biggs and Lin Jong (blue) caught my attention quite a bit due to their high involvement (lots of possessions and ground covered). Biggs looks a decent kick too - nice long, penetrating drop punts to good positions. For the gold team, Mitch Wallis was covering heaps of territory - one end of the ground to the other with some very hard running. Of the new draftees, Caleb Daniel (gold) looked very at home. A nice mover who always looked ready to dispose of the ball in a blink, he was spinning on a bottle top a number of times taking advantage of his lower mass. Just like his highlights reel but in the flesh and sans helmet. He is nuggety enough that I could see him getting some senior game time in 2015 but probably not early in the season. At the other end of the scale Tom Boyd is indeed very, very big and moves beautifully for such a big bloke. It was interesting to see that when the ball came in high just about all of the defending team seemed to feel compelled to fly against him. If it goes like this during the season we will cream the crumbing goals.

I mentioned that Hamlet was on Boydosaur Jnr. As they don't come any bigger than Tom Boyd, it was an opportunity to assess the "Hammer" (as his obviously poorly-read team mates were calling him). My assessment was that while a Boyd sized forward would stretch him to his limits he was still competitive and basically looks ready to go as a KPB. He is not so lean that that is what you notice first about him, he is quite mobile and prepared to repeatedly break and run - which certainly gave Boyd something to concentrate on when the ball was being cleared.

At one stage, Beveridge came up to the grand stand to get a different perspective on proceedings. He was very cheerful and gave loud hellos to everyone who acknowledged him. Most of the time though he was on the boundary line with his clip board. He wasn't vocal but I did hear him yell out once, "wrong way, wrong way..." This occurred when the ball was being cleared from the back pocket and the receiving players around the centre all headed to the boundary and towards the player disposing of the ball. It was one of our typical numbers around the football scenarios and I wonder if the new coach was looking for more options to be presented, including some anticipation of the ball going longer because what actually happened was the ball cleared the congestion they contributed to.

Off the field, Tony Liberatore was watching in the stand and talking footy with a young man who looked very fit and rangy. I think this was Tom's younger brother.

Anyway got to sign off but this was what I saw this morning.

[jeemak]

Thanks for the report, it's appreciated.

[Eastdog]

Thanks for the reports F'scary. Much appreciated. May head down to WO for the family day depends if I have anything on.

[Go_Dogs]

Great write up, thanks.

[F'scary]

Thanks for the reports F'scary. Much appreciated. May head down to WO for the family day depends if I have anything on.

Same here, Eastie - but I gotta get a leave ticket.

[bornadog]

Same here, Eastie - but I gotta get a leave ticket.

Thanks for the report today. Did Boydjnr get a kick? How was he moving?

[Eastdog]

Were there still many first year players absent from training today F'scary.

[1eyedog]

The rules modifications were interesting. If a behind was scored, there was no kick out. Instead there was a ball up at HFF well outside the 50m arc so that team that had scored could try and attack the goals again.

Sounds like they are working on stoppages after an opposition kick in also maybe. Glad to hear there appears to be an emphasis on skills and ball movement. Very encouraging.

[The Underdog]

Were there still many first year players absent from training today F'scary.

I was down there for a bit. All the first years seemed to be there, although Zaine didn't take part in the match simulation stuff. He ran laps with Tom Campbell, Morris and one or two others. They all took part in earlier drills I believe. I'll try and add some more later but honestly spent half my time trying to pick up who was who.

[bornadog]

I was down there for a bit. All the first years seemed to be there, although Zaine didn't take part in the match simulation stuff. He ran laps with Tom Campbell, Morris and one or two others. They all took part in earlier drills I believe. I'll try and add some more later but honestly spent half my time trying to pick up who was who.

don't blame you with all the new faces, it is going to take some getting use to.

[boydogs]

He ran laps with Tom Campbell, Morris and one or two others

Clay Smith was probably one. Not sure why Cordy, Morris & Campbell aren't participating

[The Underdog]

Clay Smith was probably one. Not sure why Cordy, Morris & Campbell aren't participating

Saw Clay standing by the boundary at one point but didn't see him doing much. I wasn't near the traing centre bit though so he could have been training in there

[Twodogs]

Terrific and detailed report FS. Thanks for posting. How many did Boydy get?

[Axe Man]

Stringer sizzles in match-simulation training session (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-01-15/stringers-sizzling-session)

JAKE Stringer looks set to build on his breakout 2014 season after an eye-catching performance in the Western Bulldogs' match simulation session at Whitten Oval on Thursday.

The match practice hit-out took place towards the end of a solid two-and-a-half-hour session, and Stringer was prominent from the start.

The 20-year-old, who booted 28 goals from 18 games last year, used his pace and strength to run around and through would-be tacklers in the midfield, before moving forward to be just as dangerous.

"He is flying at the moment Jakey," midfielder Nathan Hrovat said.

"He's a very rare talent because he's quick, evasive and strong and he's going to be a handful down forward next to Tom (Boyd).

"Hopefully he hasn't shown too many tricks and he saves them for games, but he's going alright at the moment."

Stewart Crameri was another to impress in a similar role to Stringer, using his elite endurance to roam up and down the ground to find plenty of the footy.

Big money recruit Tom Boyd had an intriguing battle with Jordan Roughead and Michael Talia, while fellow tall forward Jack Redpath took several strong marks and appears to have improved his mobility.

Former Swan Shane Biggs looks like he'll be a great acquisition across half-back, with his run and ball use a standout in the windy conditions.

Pint-sized Caleb Daniel looked the most comfortable of the draftees, getting involved in several passages of play and winning plenty of plaudits from the coaching staff.

Hrovat, Dale Morris and Tom Campbell were part of a group who didn't take part due to management of their training loads.

[bornadog]

These reports start to get me excited about 2015.

[Eastdog]

These reports start to get me excited about 2015.

I'm not getting too carried away but agree that the reports from woofers who go to the training sessions have had a very positive tone to it. For any supporters who haven't signed up as yet, I reckon its a great time as we are in for some exciting times.

[1eyedog]

These reports start to get me excited about 2015.

Thing is everyone at every club is flying at this time of year and every club has a few young, talented sizzlers. Eastie must be getting close to 20k in members?

[Eastdog]

Thing is everyone at every club is flying at this time of year and every club has a few young, talented sizzlers. Eastie must be getting close to 20k in members?

Last time I checked I think it was around 19,871. It's stagnated somewhat but hopefully picks up again.

[bornadog]

Thing is everyone at every club is flying at this time of year and every club has a few young, talented sizzlers. Eastie must be getting close to 20k in members?

yeah, but...................Stringer, Boyd, Carmeri, Libba, and the list goes on.:D

and BONTI

[bornadog]

Training focus switches as Bulldogs turn up the heat (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/2015-01-15/coaches-pleased-with-progress)
Match simulation and game style are the focus for the Western Bulldogs on the training track says assistant coach Steven King, as the group move into an intensive training block with the NAB Challenge less than seven weeks away.


Following a two-week break over Christmas, the Bulldogs have been back in training for a fortnight and King says the coaching group have been pleased with the players’ progress.


“Now match play is obviously a lot more significant in training, we’re doing 20 minute halves now and from that… breaking down more game style specifics of stoppage structures, kick ins and zones.”


King says the coaching group is ultimately looking for players to step up and adhere to the new standards and structures that have been put in place under the guidance of new Senior Coach Luke Beveridge.


“Just to continue what Luke (Beveridge) wants to try and bring across… Just pretty much taking the game on and building on the base of fitness that we had put in place prior to Christmas.


“(We’re looking for) guys that are willing to have a crack regardless of the consequence, but probably just not playing it safe by being aggressive and assertive in everything they do.”


Particularly impressive has been the pre-season efforts of midfielder Lin Jong, who King says is making the most of his opportunity following an impressive VFL finals series, alongside Brett Goodes and Nathan Hrovat, who King also identified as having notable influence on the track over the summer.


King also lauded the performances of the Club’s off-season recruits, Shane Biggs, Joel Hamling and Tom Boyd.


“Biggsy’s ready to go, he’s a ready-made player coming from a good program.


“Joel Hamling’s been really good down back and Boydy after a slow start is getting his fitness base back in.


“He’s just been really important in down the line contests that we’ve had so far, so (we are) starting to see the big fella assert his influence on training and in games.”


The Bulldogs will host Richmond at Victoria University Whitten Oval for their opening NAB Challenge match on Saturday 28 February.

[1eyedog]

yeah, but...................Stringer, Boyd, Carmeri, Libba, and the list goes on.:D

It does go on doesn't it.

[LostDoggy]

yeah, but...................Stringer, Boyd, Carmeri, Libba, and the list goes on.:D

This list needs more Bont.

[bornadog]

This list needs more Bont.

true and done


yeah, but...................Stringer, Boyd, Carmeri, Libba, and the list goes on.:D

and BONTI

[Pedro Sanchez]

They're just a bunch of kids having a kick and doing some simple drills and contesting work. Romero is quite a bit taller than his dad , Smith is pretty solid, Liberatore is small, West could be his dad at that age, Macpherson is a bit like his dad but has bigger features and Kellet looks pretty accomplished.

Cheers!

[F'scary]

Thanks for the report today. Did Boydjnr get a kick? How was he moving?

He was moving really well, got a kick or two. You can see the threat he poses straight away in the marking contests.

[F'scary]

Were there still many first year players absent from training today F'scary.

In addition to Daniel, I noted Bailey Dale & Roarke Smith. The others may well have been there but I just wasn't good enough to pick them out. However, Prudden, Fuller + 3 others who I didn't identify did not take part in the practice match session, they ran laps - one of them was the kid with the long blond hair.

[F'scary]

Terrific and detailed report FS. Thanks for posting. How many did Boydy get?

He got one and hit the near post from a tight angle with another. He is a lovely kick of the ball - straight and it goes for miles.

[F'scary]

Stringer sizzles in match-simulation training session (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-01-15/stringers-sizzling-session)

JAKE Stringer looks set to build on his breakout 2014 season after an eye-catching performance in the Western Bulldogs' match simulation session at Whitten Oval on Thursday.

The match practice hit-out took place towards the end of a solid two-and-a-half-hour session, and Stringer was prominent from the start.

The 20-year-old, who booted 28 goals from 18 games last year, used his pace and strength to run around and through would-be tacklers in the midfield, before moving forward to be just as dangerous.

"He is flying at the moment Jakey," midfielder Nathan Hrovat said.

"He's a very rare talent because he's quick, evasive and strong and he's going to be a handful down forward next to Tom (Boyd).

"Hopefully he hasn't shown too many tricks and he saves them for games, but he's going alright at the moment."

Stewart Crameri was another to impress in a similar role to Stringer, using his elite endurance to roam up and down the ground to find plenty of the footy.

Big money recruit Tom Boyd had an intriguing battle with Jordan Roughead and Michael Talia, while fellow tall forward Jack Redpath took several strong marks and appears to have improved his mobility.

Former Swan Shane Biggs looks like he'll be a great acquisition across half-back, with his run and ball use a standout in the windy conditions.

Pint-sized Caleb Daniel looked the most comfortable of the draftees, getting involved in several passages of play and winning plenty of plaudits from the coaching staff.

Hrovat, Dale Morris and Tom Campbell were part of a group who didn't take part due to management of their training loads.

Hamlet got first go (first quarter) on Boyd Jnr.

[BulldogBelle]

Stringer sizzles in match-simulation training session (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-01-15/stringers-sizzling-session)

JAKE Stringer looks set to build on his breakout 2014 season after an eye-catching performance in the Western Bulldogs' match simulation session at Whitten Oval on Thursday.

The match practice hit-out took place towards the end of a solid two-and-a-half-hour session, and Stringer was prominent from the start.

The 20-year-old, who booted 28 goals from 18 games last year, used his pace and strength to run around and through would-be tacklers in the midfield, before moving forward to be just as dangerous.

"He is flying at the moment Jakey," midfielder Nathan Hrovat said.

"He's a very rare talent because he's quick, evasive and strong and he's going to be a handful down forward next to Tom (Boyd).

"Hopefully he hasn't shown too many tricks and he saves them for games, but he's going alright at the moment."

Stewart Crameri was another to impress in a similar role to Stringer, using his elite endurance to roam up and down the ground to find plenty of the footy.

Big money recruit Tom Boyd had an intriguing battle with Jordan Roughead and Michael Talia, while fellow tall forward Jack Redpath took several strong marks and appears to have improved his mobility.

Former Swan Shane Biggs looks like he'll be a great acquisition across half-back, with his run and ball use a standout in the windy conditions.

Pint-sized Caleb Daniel looked the most comfortable of the draftees, getting involved in several passages of play and winning plenty of plaudits from the coaching staff.

Hrovat, Dale Morris and Tom Campbell were part of a group who didn't take part due to management of their training loads.

Gave me a chill when l read that. l am sure String and Boyd will make a devasting forward line in the future!

[The Underdog]

In addition to Daniel, I noted Bailey Dale & Roarke Smith. The others may well have been there but I just wasn't good enough to pick them out. However, Prudden, Fuller + 3 others who I didn't identify did not take part in the practice match session, they ran laps - one of them was the kid with the long blond hair.

MacLean was training, looked noticeably tired a lot of the time in anything full ground. Webb was hard to pick in a hat, I noticed Hamilton when he came to the bench, he's pretty skinny. Fuller and Prudden definitely played part of the match simulation but I left at 10:30 so they may have begged out after that.
As I said earlier, with the number of new faces, players wearing hats etc. it took me a while to pick out a lot of the players, but a few things I noticed were:

-Hamling didn't seem particularly skinny to me. Looked pretty strong, athletic and certainly looked closer to being a senior player than I expected. He was matched up on Tom Boyd and seemed to acquit himself well.
-Redpath and Talia were having a pretty physical competition early on. A bit of push and shove. Redpath looked reasonable. Took one nice mark that I saw.
-As mentioned by others Minson looks more svelte, moving pretty well, although Ayce did reasonably well against him in what were admittedly not full on ruck contests. Despite running laps during the match practice, thought Tom Campbell also looked to move a bit smoother.
-I guess F'scary must have missed a couple of nice grabs by Ayce. I'm sure he would have been shouting about it from the rooftops otherwise :)
-Bont appears to be very confident in himself. He noticeably held the ball and tried to take guys on in drills at times when he could have released earlier.
-Caleb Daniel is definitely the most comfortable of the kids playing with the older guys. Despite his size he has the most mature body, very strong in the legs. Hit up Bont with a nice pass in the forward 50.
-Was impressed with what I saw of Z. Cordy. Didn't play in the match simulation but looked good in an earlier end to end drill. Moves very well.
-There was some pretty ordinary skill in the earlier end to end drill prior to the match simulation. Scrubbed kicks and lots of fumbling at times
-I think Stringer and Macrae might turn out alright. They look to have a bit of talent :D
-It took me ages to pick Honeychurch with a hat on, but he did some nice things. Neat user.

[F'scary]

MacLean was training, looked noticeably tired a lot of the time in anything full ground. Webb was hard to pick in a hat, I noticed Hamilton when he came to the bench, he's pretty skinny. Fuller and Prudden definitely played part of the match simulation but I left at 10:30 so they may have begged out after that.
As I said earlier, with the number of new faces, players wearing hats etc. it took me a while to pick out a lot of the players, but a few things I noticed were:

-Hamling didn't seem particularly skinny to me. Looked pretty strong, athletic and certainly looked closer to being a senior player than I expected. He was matched up on Tom Boyd and seemed to acquit himself well.
-Redpath and Talia were having a pretty physical competition early on. A bit of push and shove. Redpath looked reasonable. Took one nice mark that I saw.
-As mentioned by others Minson looks more svelte, moving pretty well, although Ayce did reasonably well against him in what were admittedly not full on ruck contests. Despite running laps during the match practice, thought Tom Campbell also looked to move a bit smoother.
-I guess F'scary must have missed a couple of nice grabs by Ayce. I'm sure he would have been shouting about it from the rooftops otherwise :)
-Bont appears to be very confident in himself. He noticeably held the ball and tried to take guys on in drills at times when he could have released earlier.
-Caleb Daniel is definitely the most comfortable of the kids playing with the older guys. Despite his size he has the most mature body, very strong in the legs. Hit up Bont with a nice pass in the forward 50.
-Was impressed with what I saw of Z. Cordy. Didn't play in the match simulation but looked good in an earlier end to end drill. Moves very well.
-There was some pretty ordinary skill in the earlier end to end drill prior to the match simulation. Scrubbed kicks and lots of fumbling at times
-I think Stringer and Macrae might turn out alright. They look to have a bit of talent :D
-It took me ages to pick Honeychurch with a hat on, but he did some nice things. Neat user.

I did say the Ayce in the Pack went ok.

[Twodogs]

I like what I see of Caleb Daniel. He has settled really well. He looks pretty accomplished to me.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Thanks for the reports, much appreciated.

Flat out with work right now, hoping to go down to a session in early Feb to have a look though.

[Eastdog]

I like what I see of Caleb Daniel. He has settled really well. He looks pretty accomplished to me.

Really hearing good things so far about him. Look forward to more positive training reports.

[The Underdog]

I did say the Ayce in the Pack went ok.

Apologies, missed that

[boydogs]

Hey F'scary is this your blonde friend?

https://scontent-a-nrt.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/s720x720/10931537_945492632135027_1738280609065666332_n.jpg?oh=dcdce2 c10a77431283b6ebf593a04101&oe=552BB543

https://scontent-a-nrt.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/s720x720/10273407_945492802135010_1227778481230829201_n.jpg?oh=9cfadf c4678e010975cfbeb4d9a57888&oe=552605EE

[soupman]

Thats Darcy McPherson. He's been training with us all week. Apparently he has grown/is growing which is a relief as he was set to be another Hrovat size player if he didn't.

[Go_Dogs]

Thats Darcy McPherson. He's been training with us all week. Apparently he has grown/is growing which is a relief as he was set to be another Hrovat size player if he didn't.

We might not draft him if he keeps growing ;)

[KT31]

Thank you to all for the reports, most appreciated now that I cannot make it to training myself.

[F'scary]

Hey F'scary is this your blonde friend?

https://scontent-a-nrt.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/s720x720/10931537_945492632135027_1738280609065666332_n.jpg?oh=dcdce2 c10a77431283b6ebf593a04101&oe=552BB543

https://scontent-a-nrt.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/s720x720/10273407_945492802135010_1227778481230829201_n.jpg?oh=9cfadf c4678e010975cfbeb4d9a57888&oe=552605EE

Yes that is the young man.

[dadsgirl16]

So is that Darcy McPherson?

[westdog54]

These reports start to get me excited about 2015.

I'm going to pretend I didn't read that...

[bornadog]

I'm going to pretend I didn't read that...

No expectations, just excited to watch the young guys go around again.;)

[LostDoggy]

I like what I see of Caleb Daniel. He has settled really well. He looks pretty accomplished to me.

I watched a session a week or so back with Shnook and was very impressed. He has rather short arms but is built like the proverbial brick outhouse. Dubbed him TRex.

[Twodogs]

I watched a session a week or so back with Shnook and was very impressed. He has rather short arms but is built like the proverbial brick outhouse. Dubbed him TRex.



I'm not saying he's going to be a star in his first season or win the RS Award or anything. But I've not often seen a player sep up and look so comfortable with the tempo and rhythm of AFL footy (albeit training) after just a few sessions


I wouldn't be surprised if he plays a fair bit of senior footy this season and find himself a regular and seasoned member of the team by season's end.

[LostDoggy]

Are you referring to Darcy McPherson? I didn't know we had him on our list??

I watched a session a week or so back with Shnook and was very impressed. He has rather short arms but is built like the proverbial brick outhouse. Dubbed him TRex.