Tom Liberatore

[Remi Moses]

Story from Damian Barrett ( grain of salt)
That tom's been sanctioned by the club for not attending a rehab session.
The clubs not allowing him to go to Europe with his non footy club mates.
Allowed to go to Thailand:confused:

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

Had a strong inference of drug taking

[ratsmac]

If this is true it is extremely disappointing. I thought Tom had turned himself around and at this point I'm choosing to continue to believe just that.

[comrade]

Why are we talking to this bottom feeder?

Libba needs to pull his head in but we don't need to be airing our dirty laundry.

[comrade]

But good move sending him to Thailand.

Nothing untoward happens there, right? ;)

[Nuggety Back Pocket]

Very sad to hear this on Libba in tonight's Footy Show with the sanction enforced by the Club's senior playing group.
The guy obviously needs help and you begin to wonder what impact this is having on his rehab program. With such a terrific start to our season you would hope that this latest bad news doesn't impact on the Club.

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

I am disappointed that every time we seem to be going well we have to hose down some sort of scandal. We are an easy target and don't need anyone giving ammunition to people like Barrett

[jeemak]

I think we need to keep an open mind. Melbourne's a small city.

[comrade]

I think we need to keep an open mind. Melbourne's a small city.

If anyone thinks our lads are impervious to extra-curricular activities, they're naive.

Every club will have players who indulge, and players who don't.

The big question here is how the *!*!*!*! did Barrett get a hold of it?

[G-Mo77]

I believe he went a couple of weeks ago. I'm a little fishy that a story took a couple of weeks to come out. I'm not dismissing a scandal just suspicious of someone clutching at straws.

[jeemak]

People inside the industry talk, clubs leak.

[comrade]

Honest question: is it common for someone recovering from an ACL to take a couple of weeks off for a holiday during the rehab period?

[bulldogtragic]

So he's screwed up, inference of drugs and he's sent to Bangkok?

Did the club not see The Hangover Part 2. He's going to come back with a Mike Tyson face tat and some "demon" in him. :D

630630

[bornadog]

Who knows if Barrett has his facts right?

If it is true then he is an idiot.

[Remi Moses]

Honest question: is it common for someone recovering from an ACL to take a couple of weeks off for a holiday during the rehab period?

I think that happens often .
If the story is true, then Tom should pull his head in.
He'll be digging holes and getting up at dawn permanently

[SonofScray]

Honest question: is it common for someone recovering from an ACL to take a couple of weeks off for a holiday during the rehab period?

The boys paid for Clay to have a holiday to the US in response to his most recent injury.

[comrade]

The boys paid for Clay to have a holiday to the US in response to his most recent injury.

But Clay's situation is a little different, yeah?

[SonofScray]

But Clay's situation is a little different, yeah?

Possibly, I have read some comments from players talking about getting out of town mid recovery etc before though so am assuming the idea isn't that uncommon.

[comrade]

Libba can thank Harley Bennell for taking the drug heat this week.

Oh, boy.

[Happy Days]

Libba can thank Harley Bennell for taking the drug heat this week.

Oh, boy.

Seriously who didn't pick that?

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Sounds odd.

We punish him by not letting him go to Europe, so instead we send him to Thailand and say it's because there's good knee treatment there? Right..

[boydogs]

Nothing from the club as yet

[Mofra]

Honest question: is it common for someone recovering from an ACL to take a couple of weeks off for a holiday during the rehab period?
Dougie used to have a holiday every weekend when he did his knee.

[Twodogs]

Dougie used to have a holiday every weekend when he did his knee.

What do you mean when he did his knee? The Hawk was on holiday every weekend. A couple of hours of it he played footy but the rest of the weekend was Doug time.

[Axe Man]

Gordon statement on Liberatore (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/2015-07-02/liberatore)

Western Bulldogs President Peter Gordon has issued the following statement:

The Western Bulldogs have recently dealt with some behaviour by Tom Liberatore which has been unacceptable to the Club.

While the Club accepts that Tom has had some difficult issues to deal with in 2015, the recent behaviour failed to meet our standards and expectations of him.

In consultation with Tom and his advisers, the Club has had a detailed plan in place for Tom's education and rehabilitation in 2015, as well as his participation in supporting his teammates and the team. That plan has now been modified to reflect his recent behaviour.

The Club has and will continue to provide Tom with all relevant support. We have also, and will continue to, make our expectations very clear to him.

In our view, the provision of further detail about these circumstances would not be in Tom's best interests for recovery and rehabilitation. For that reason, the Club has not commented and does not propose further comment.

We hope our members and supporters understand the Club's position in this regard.

[bornadog]

I am so disappointed with this. To think he was put in the leadership group. Should have been Wally.

[LostDoggy]

We can only hope this is a case of trying to stamp out behaviour before it gets too far, because this does not bode well.

[Cyberdoggie]

I am so disappointed with this. To think he was put in the leadership group. Should have been Wally.

We don't really know what's going on here, far be it for me to defend him but prior to this he was doing some excellent work supporting Footscray, and we all commented on his dedication and how he has turned it around.
Obviously he has some issues and something has changed. I must say when i saw him with the bad afro and moustache he looked like he hadn't been outside for a few weeks and that did worry me. A few weeks later this happens.

[Twodogs]

We don't really know what's going on here, far be it for me to defend him but prior to this he was doing some excellent work supporting Footscray, and we all commented on his dedication and how he has turned it around.
Obviously he has some issues and something has changed. I must say when i saw him with the bad afro and moustache he looked like he hadn't been outside for a few weeks and that did worry me. A few weeks later this happens.

I must admit when I saw the hairdo and the porno moustache I didn't like the look of it.

[G-Mo77]

I don't understand why we'd put out a public statement like that. It's given the gutter trash journos something to speculate on and what would have blown over quickly will be something that hangs around. Could we or would we have been better off just to say nothing? Genuine question.

[Rocco Jones]

I don't understand why we'd put out a public statement like that. It's given the gutter trash journos something to speculate on and what would have blown over quickly will be something that hangs around. Could we or would we have been better off just to say nothing? Genuine question.

I think it is great timing PR wise with Harley Bennell. We are seen as doing something about it, without getting heaps of attention due to the distraction caused by the Bennell photos.

[LostDoggy]

I don't understand why we'd put out a public statement like that. It's given the gutter trash journos something to speculate on and what would have blown over quickly will be something that hangs around. Could we or would we have been better off just to say nothing? Genuine question.

Well that all depends on what exactly it is that the club are stating they don't want to discuss, in "Tom's best interests". It's certainly not about missing a rehab session.

[bornadog]

Tom Liberatore in hot water again for "unacceptable behaviour" (http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/tom-liberatore-in-hot-water-again-for-unacceptable-behaviour-20150702-gi3b85.html)
The Western Bulldogs have confirmed they dealt with "unacceptable behaviour" shown by reigning best and fairest Tom Liberatore while on recovery from his long-term knee injury.


It's been reported that the club has sanctioned Liberatore for missing compulsory club appointments because of a period of excessive socialising three weeks ago.


While the Dogs have yet to go into detail about the issues, president Peter Gordon released a statement on Thursday explaining the club's position.


"While the club accepts that Tom has had some difficult issues to deal with in 2015, the recent behaviour failed to meet our standards and expectations of him," Gordon said.


"In consultation with Tom and his advisers, the club has had a detailed plan in place for Tom's education and rehabilitation in 2015, as well as his participation in supporting his teammates and the team," he said.


"That plan has now been modified to reflect his recent behaviour.

"The club has and will continue to provide Tom with all relevant support. We have also, and will continue to, make our expectations very clear to him.

"In our view, the provision of further detail about these circumstances would not be in Tom's best interests for recovery and rehabilitation. For that reason, the club has not commented and does not propose further comment."


It's been reported that the 23-year-old was scheduled to travel to Europe with non-Bulldog friends, however the club intervened and instead diverted him to a country where they felt his rehabilitation can be better accommodated.


That country is reportedly Thailand.


Liberatore, who was this year added to the leadership group, has been sanctioned by the club for off-field indiscretions in the past.


In 2012, he was suspended for four matches by the Dogs, and handed a "strike" by the AFL, after being found in possession of an illicit substance.


Liberatore, who injured his ACL in the NAB Challenge earlier this year, was the league's best clearance and tackling players last season and, in May, signed a contract extension committing to the club until 2018.

[G-Mo77]

I think it is great timing PR wise with Harley Bennell. We are seen as doing something about it, without getting heaps of attention due to the distraction caused by the Bennell photos.

We got front page on the AFL website this morning. The Bennell photos would have squashed this by Friday. I just feel with given the story longer legs now.


Well that all depends on what exactly it is that the club are stating they don't want to discuss, in "Tom's best interests". It's certainly not about missing a rehab session.

No it's not and by making a statement about not saying they don't want to discuss it brings more speculation and questions. I don't think this is in Tom's or our best interests.

[EasternWest]

It's called "excessive socialising" now is it?

What a disgrace.

[LostDoggy]

No it's not and by making a statement about not saying they don't want to discuss it brings more speculation and questions. I don't think this is in Tom's or our best interests.

I think I agree with you, in that we'd be better off either coming clean completely or shutting the doors, but perhaps there are other, maybe even legal, factors involved in determining what the club is able to disclose or not. Perhaps in a rush to "get on the front foot" we've gone too early?

Lots of perhaps there, but that's always the case when we're sitting here largely uninformed.

[LostDoggy]

We don't really know what's going on here, far be it for me to defend him but prior to this he was doing some excellent work supporting Footscray, and we all commented on his dedication and how he has turned it around.
Obviously he has some issues and something has changed. I must say when i saw him with the bad afro and moustache he looked like he hadn't been outside for a few weeks and that did worry me. A few weeks later this happens.


I must admit when I saw the hairdo and the porno moustache I didn't like the look of it.

Really? Is this a thing?

[Remi Moses]

This day and age the club's done the right thing .
The landscape's changed from the good Ol' days, and if you claim the games a business then act accordingly .

[bornadog]

Barrett has written a piece on the AFL website, so the club had to say something:


THE future of Western Bulldogs best and fairest Tom Liberatore is at flashpoint after another club sanction, stemming from a multi-day period of partying.Liberatore, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury during the NAB Challenge (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-03-01/libba-out-for-year), was due to head to Europe with non-Bulldogs friends.

However, the club intervened after he missed compulsory club appointments, a result of excessive socialising three weeks ago.
On Wednesday night, Channel Nine revealed the Bulldogs instead diverted him to Thailand, a country it feels can better accommodate his rehabilitation for the knee injury.

The club released a statement on Thursday, saying Liberatore's actions were unacceptable, but they will continue to provide the young gun with support.

[1eyedog]

On the e's again was he? Ah well at least we have Wally and at least the club has come out and stated that there is a problem rather than the broad-scale Buddy cover ups during 09-10.

[SlimPickens]

I think it is great timing PR wise with Harley Bennell. We are seen as doing something about it, without getting heaps of attention due to the distraction caused by the Bennell photos.

Surprising that the afl have had the Libba story for a couple of weeks and it gets released now? I think you're on to something, but possible the wrong way around.

[Hotdog60]

I would hate to see a promising career go down the tubes because of a lack of self control.

It may come down to a choice of your mates or your career.

What happens when players are in rehab? Do they just do the physical stuff to get better and that's it.

Maybe full time work at the club to fill in the time.

[westdog54]

I think this had been week handled by the club.

They've said that Tom has a problem, they were made aware of it, they have taken action with Tom's best interest at the forefront, and the details are nobody else's business.

[Happy Days]

I must admit when I saw the hairdo and the porno moustache I didn't like the look of it.

Well, how did you go?

[Remi Moses]

I think this had been week handled by the club.

They've said that Tom has a problem, they were made aware of it, they have taken action with Tom's best interest at the forefront, and the details are nobody else's business.

Tend to agree . If Tom doesn't quickly understand how important his behaviour is , it's going to be a short career.

[jeemak]

I think this had been week handled by the club.

They've said that Tom has a problem, they were made aware of it, they have taken action with Tom's best interest at the forefront, and the details are nobody else's business.

Agreed.

A three week period wouldn't have appeared as an Island facing stormy weather, surrounded by calm seas.

I'm taking this news pretty seriously, and highly doubt it's a beat up.

[ReLoad]

Park his ass in the membership department to personally ring non renewed members for 3 weeks.

No problems with youngsters being youngsters, but someone who is on a quarter of a million a year has responsibilities, you can't take the candy without paying the price.

I'm happy for a hard line from the club, I hope it works because the kid is a gun.

Oh and Tom, if by some odd chance you read this, find some new mates, real mates wouldnt let you do this.

[BornInDroopSt'54]

Park his ass in the membership department to personally ring non renewed members for 3 weeks.

No problems with youngsters being youngsters, but someone who is on a quarter of a million a year has responsibilities, you can't take the candy without paying the price.

I'm happy for a hard line from the club, I hope it works because the kid is a gun.

Oh and Tom, if by some odd chance you read this, find some new mates, real mates wouldnt let you do this.

Last sentence:Not.

[jeemak]

All the reports about Tom suggest he's headstrong and his own man, it's a bit of a cop out to be blaming his mates.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

All the reports about Tom suggest he's headstrong and his own man, it's a bit of a cop out to be blaming his mates.

Heard a few mention this and it frustrates me. Tom has to stand up and be held accountable for his own stupid actions which, if continue, will see him out of a career.

[jeemak]

Heard a few mention this and it frustrates me. Tom has to stand up and be held accountable for his own stupid actions which, if continue, will see him out of a career.

It would be interesting to know how his mates families perceive Tom, knowing the narrative in the media paints his mates negatively and as a distraction.

[LostDoggy]

It would be interesting to know how his mates families perceive Tom, knowing the narrative in the media paints his mates negatively and as a distraction.

Agree - and whos to know whether it is actually Tom that orchestrates the partying / sessions etc. Maybe he is the one who is the bad influence on them.

Needs to pull his head in....again.

[Ozza]

It would be interesting to know how his mates families perceive Tom, knowing the narrative in the media paints his mates negatively and as a distraction.

I'm sure that Tom's mates are not dissimilar to most 22 year olds - and I'm with you that nobody should blame them for any time Tom messes up. It is entirely up to Tom to pick and choose when and how he socialises.

[Greystache]

It would be interesting to know how his mates families perceive Tom, knowing the narrative in the media paints his mates negatively and as a distraction.

Great bloke, always up for a party, isn't a "total footyhead like a lot of those other tossers". His mates are all totally consumed by their own self importance and cannot be told anything. Pampered babies for the most part.

[comrade]

Great bloke, always up for a party, isn't a "total footyhead like a lot of those other tossers". His mates are all totally consumed by their own self importance and cannot be told anything. Pampered babies for the most part.

I can picture Turtle and Johnny Drama on a night out with Vince :D

[jeemak]

Great bloke, always up for a party, isn't a "total footyhead like a lot of those other tossers". His mates are all totally consumed by their own self importance and cannot be told anything. Pampered babies for the most part.

Is that at a guess or do you know this circle of people?

[Greystache]

Is that at a guess or do you know this circle of people?

A couple of his best mates are my inlaws.

[bulldogtragic]

I hope Tony & Tom have another heart to heart in light of this sad news. Family and footy are positives, drugs are the exact opposite.

[Remi Moses]

A couple of his best mates are my inlaws.

Yep, and where there's smoke there's fire.
In this case it's a raging inferno.
Young bloke either gets with the program or his career will be unfulfilled.

[jeemak]

A couple of his best mates are my inlaws.

I see.

[F'scary]

Libba jnr must be finding it very hard being out of the game for a year. If he has made a mistake, I can understand, no need to take him to the cleaners, just move forward from here.

[1eyedog]

Libba jnr must be finding it very hard being out of the game for a year. If he has made a mistake, I can understand, no need to take him to the cleaners, just move forward from here.

I don't think being out for the year is an excuse. I know everyone is different but he needs to take a leaf out of Clay Smith's book. I don't think he should be taken to the cleaners but this seems a bit bigger than simply another mistake.
I think both Libba and, more broadly the AFL, have a fairly serious problem.

[Mantis]

I don't think being out for the year is an excuse. I know everyone is different but he needs to take a leaf out of Clay Smith's book. I don't think he should be taken to the cleaners but this seems a bit bigger than simply another mistake.
I think both Libba and, more broadly the AFL, have a fairly serious problem.

Society has the issue... Professional athletes included.

[Twodogs]

Society has the issue... Professional athletes included.

Yep. AFL players don't live in isolation.

[Bulldog4life]

Yep. AFL players don't live in isolation.

Agree although they do get a lot more education than the rest of society

[Twodogs]

Agree although they do get a lot more education than the rest of society


That's true. They can't plead ignorance.

[LostDoggy]

Agree although they do get a lot more education than the rest of society

So does the military, however…

Young blokes don't listen very well.

[bornadog]

I was talking to the greengrocer today and his nephew is a first year West Coast player. They have put strict controls on players and regularly take urine samples. After every training session, all players are tested.

I wonder what tests we have on players.

[jeemak]

I was talking to the greengrocer today and his nephew is a first year West Coast player. They have put strict controls on players and regularly take urine samples. After every training session, all players are tested.

I wonder what tests we have on players.

That's the difference between a wealthy club and a club like ours. I'd suggest we'd be doing the statutory amount, considering they'd cost thousands per session to perform.

[1eyedog]

Society has the issue... Professional athletes included.

Government aside, I think society realizes it has a problem. The AFL have been completely blindsided by recent revelations, staggering. Either that or they've had their heads in the sand since Ben Cousins.

[bulldogtragic]

I was talking to the greengrocer today and his nephew is a first year West Coast player. They have put strict controls on players and regularly take urine samples. After every training session, all players are tested.

I wonder what tests we have on players.

We've been taking the piss for a long time.

[Bullies]

i think you will find there could be also a couple of missed rehab sessions

[Bulldog4life]

i think you will find there could be also a couple of missed rehab sessions

There is a Fox Footy promo with players saying what their father would say of them and when they ask Tom he says lazy

[Twodogs]

There is a Fox Footy promo with players saying what their father would say of them and when they ask Tom he says lazy


Pretty much everybody's dad says that about their kids though. I don't with my kids of course, but my dad was always going on about the topic of lazy kids! :D

[Maddog37]

I imagine Libba senior would be a pretty hard judge too!!!

[Bulldog4life]

I imagine Libba senior would be a pretty hard judge too!!!

Possibly
He was a true professional footballer though

[Twodogs]

I imagine Libba senior would be a pretty hard judge too!!!

And you couldn't accuse him of not giving footy his best shot.

[hujsh]

I imagine that Boyd and Morris are the only two players Libba would feel aren't lazy if they were his sons.

[ledge]

I wonder if Oliver is a hard worker.
He has a lot of talent apparently , hopefully he learns from his older brother and doesn't make the same mistakes.

[Throughandthrough]

I wonder if we will shop him around? I think the downside may be much further than the upside. He could be anything and we could get just about anyone for him. Having said that I hope he has cleaned up and matured enough to realise where he is and what he's doing.

[azabob]

I wonder if we will shop him around? I think the downside may be much further than the upside. He could be anything and we could get just about anyone for him. Having said that I hope he has cleaned up and matured enough to realise where he is and what he's doing.

Surely we can't shop Tom Liberatore around.

What makes you think his downside may be much further than the upside? Are you talking on field and off field?

Either way you cut the onion, he is still in our top five players. You don't trade out champions at a young age.

[1eyedog]

Do you mean Libba and Talia for Dangerfield?

[azabob]

Do you mean Libba and Talia for Dangerfield?

No, I wouldn't even do that trade.

[Twodogs]

Tom is 'fabric of the club' type player. His value stretches past his playing ability for us.

[Bulldog4life]

I wonder if we will shop him around? I think the downside may be much further than the upside. He could be anything and we could get just about anyone for him. Having said that I hope he has cleaned up and matured enough to realise where he is and what he's doing.

Ridiculous post.

[chef]

What is this madness.

[Scorlibo]

A fit and firing Libba is the difference between 7th place and the top four.

[Throughandthrough]

N
Surely we can't shop Tom Liberatore around.

What makes you think his downside may be much further than the upside? Are you talking on field and off field?

Either way you cut the onion, he is still in our top five players. You don't trade out champions at a young age.

I'm talking off field. What if (purely hypothetical) his rehab in Thailand didn't help?

[Topdog]

Tom is 'fabric of the club' type player. His value stretches past his playing ability for us.

Is he? I really hope he isn't because from everything you hear about him he is a bit of a knob and extremely immature.

Stringer seems to be much more fabric of the club type player.

[Happy Days]

Is he? I really hope he isn't because from everything you hear about him he is a bit of a knob and extremely immature.

Stringer seems to be much more fabric of the club type player.

Tom's not a knob, he's a normal person.

Honestly I think the judgement of players is becoming far too sanctimonious.

[SonofScray]

I'll be interested to see where everyone slots in assuming Libba steps back in as the elite contested ball winner he was. Wallis in the fwd line was a deliberate move to test his versatility in roles other than the midfield or tagger. What will Libba's extra string in his bow be? Half back, forward?

The coach wants versatility. I wonder where that comes into when you are an absolute elite specialist at an important facet of the game?

[Maddog37]

Libba is the best in and under contested ball winner in the competition. He might only have the one string to his bow but it is a very bloody good one!!

[Ghost Dog]

Liberatore, Destroy them. Liberatore, Destroy them. Liberatore, Destroy them. Eliminate, Eliminate.

Etihad will go nuts when he runs back on.

[hujsh]

Booooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo ooooooooooooooo T&T...
Boo

[Rocco Jones]

I'll be interested to see where everyone slots in assuming Libba steps back in as the elite contested ball winner he was. Wallis in the fwd line was a deliberate move to test his versatility in roles other than the midfield or tagger. What will Libba's extra string in his bow be? Half back, forward?

The coach wants versatility. I wonder where that comes into when you are an absolute elite specialist at an important facet of the game?

I think if a player is elite in a role then they don't really need to be versatile, even under Beveridge, especially when that role in right in the thick of it.

Wood, Matthew Boyd and Bob were all elite HB players this season. They really didn't need another string to their bow. When you have the #1 clearance player in the league, you play him in the engine room as much as possible.

I see the versatile that the midfield team offer as helping Libba too. The way I see it...

Bonts- inside, outside, up forward
Wallis- on ball, forward, run with type
Stevens- inside, forward
Dahlhaus- inside, outside, forward
Macrae- inside, outside

[hujsh]

I think if a player is elite in a role then they don't really need to be versatile, even under Beveridge, especially when that role in right in the thick of it.

Wood, Matthew Boyd and Bob were all elite HB players this season. They really didn't need another string to their bow. When you have the #1 clearance player in the league, you play him in the engine room as much as possible.

I see the versatile that the midfield team offer as helping Libba too. The way I see it...

Bonts- inside, outside, up forward
Wallis- on ball, forward, run with type
Stevens- inside, forward
Dahlhaus- inside, outside, forward
Macrae- inside, outside

Bob went forward on occasion

[Rocco Jones]

Bob went forward on occasion

Yep, very rarely though. That was due to having so many HB types too. Our HB line is elite, best in the league. Our engine room isn't great and we can do with all the number 1 clearance players we can get!

[LostDoggy]

Refreshed myself on what Libba brings the other day. Was a little shocked at just how dominant he was. In fact he is statistically the best clearance and tackling player we have ever had, by a fair margin:

Clearance stats go back to the early 90s. The greatest clearance # ever recorded by a Bulldog was 183 by Tom Liberatore in 2013, the only other figure close was 156 by Tom Liberatore in 2014. Our best clearance player in 2015, Mitch Wallis, recorded 121 - a great year but Libba at his best is 50% better (!!).

The best tackler we had for decades was Tony Liberatore, his 142 tackles in 1994, stood until Tom laid 173 in 2014, a 15% improvement on the best ever (despite playing 2 fewer games). Tom's 137 in 2013 is #3 on the list. Tom's 173 places him 30% higher than 2015's best tackler, Liam Picken.

Tom has also won 300 or more contested possessions in a season twice in his short career, the only other Bulldog to ever achieve this total is Matthew Boyd (3 times). Tom's 2014 total of 319 is 20% up on 2015's best CP winner, Luke Dahlhaus.

So statistically, 2013/14 Tom beats our best 2015 clearance player by 50%, best tackler by 30% and best contested ball winner by 20%. These are massive margins, and then you factor in his sublime vision and delivery skills.

Also, he was a kid in an ordinary team back then. In 2016, he'll be nearer his physical peak with a more developed Wallis, Bont etc in support.

Wow. What could be.

[LostDoggy]

I think if a player is elite in a role then they don't really need to be versatile, even under Beveridge, especially when that role in right in the thick of it.

Wood, Matthew Boyd and Bob were all elite HB players this season. They really didn't need another string to their bow. When you have the #1 clearance player in the league, you play him in the engine room as much as possible.

I see the versatile that the midfield team offer as helping Libba too. The way I see it...

Bonts- inside, outside, up forward
Wallis- on ball, forward, run with type
Stevens- inside, forward
Dahlhaus- inside, outside, forward
Macrae- inside, outside

I agree. Versatility is great, but some players are just built for specific roles.

Dale Morris is a deep defender period.

Tory Dickson is a deep forward period.

Sometimes even a coach needs to be versatile in his requirement for versatility.

[Rocco Jones]

I agree. Versatility is great, but some players are just built for specific roles.

Dale Morris is a deep defender period.

Tory Dickson is a deep forward period.

Sometimes even a coach needs to be versatile in his requirement for versatility.

The thing is you can also make players more versatile within their own role. Tory Dickson is a great example. Goal kicking small forward but now has the tank to track back to HB to help out with team defense.

[LostDoggy]

The thing is you can also make players more versatile within their own role. Tory Dickson is a great example. Goal kicking small forward but now has the tank to track back to HB to help out with team defense.

That's just a standard requirement of every AFL player these days though. No one parks in their own half any more.

[Rocco Jones]

That's just a standard requirement of every AFL player these days though. No one parks in their own half any more.

Yep I get that but I think Dickson's ability to cover that ground has improved remarkably. He has gone from being an exceptionally limited small forward to covering more ground than his peers.

[bornadog]

Yep I get that but I think Dickson's ability to cover that ground has improved remarkably. He has gone from being an exceptionally limited small forward to covering more ground than his peers.

He is a lot more fitter this year and it shows on the ground.

[stefoid]

Limited rotations coming up next year puts a premium on versatility - mids are going to be rested forward more often. Luckily this reinforces what Bev is doing, because he was headed firmly in that direction anyway. We have SO many players that can play mid and forward, its not funny.

So I think that crazy number of mid/fwds we have allows Libba the luxury of being 'just' a mid/bench player with no worries at all.

[Ghost Dog]

I wonder if we will shop him around? I think the downside may be much further than the upside. He could be anything and we could get just about anyone for him. Having said that I hope he has cleaned up and matured enough to realise where he is and what he's doing.

So you are saying his downside is bigger than his upside? Further confuses me. But I am easily confused.

[Ghost Dog]

Wow. What could be.

Cheers for the stats. 50% is a massive margin!

[BornInDroopSt'54]

I'm hoping Libba's return means the other great Italian, Bontempelli won't have to do so much ploughing in and will receive a little more in space. His languid but piercing delivery on the move will set up more goals=we win.

[ledge]

Be interesting to see what we do with Wallis when Libba comes back.

[F'scary]

Be interesting to see what we do with Wallis when Libba comes back.

Plenty of midfield time for Wallis still, I wouldn't be concerned about that. If Libba comes back as good as he was, it will be the last picked medium/small non-back players who will feel it: this year it was Jong, Honeychurch, Dale, Hrovat & Daniel. They will have to fight harder and wait for senior games.

[comrade]

Be interesting to see what we do with Wallis when Libba comes back.

I'm more interested in what the opposition do, which will likely be chasing arse as we win clearance after clearance :D

[ledge]

In under 18s footy Libba was the in and under and Wallis was the outside receiver.
Wallis used to spot up the forward, great pair together.

[Go_Dogs]

Be interesting to see what we do with Wallis when Libba comes back.

The thing to remember is, when Libba last played for us we had Boyd, Griffen and Cooney spending time in the middle. Two are gone and one hardly played a centre clearance all year.

The other point to remember is Wallis has demonstrated the ability to take a good mark and convert multiple goals this year, so despite being one of if not our best inside mid in 2015, he has the versatility to spend time in other areas of the ground as team balance and rotations dictate.

[Rocco Jones]

The thing to remember is, when Libba last played for us we had Boyd, Griffen and Cooney spending time in the middle. Two are gone and one hardly played a centre clearance all year.

The other point to remember is Wallis has demonstrated the ability to take a good mark and convert multiple goals this year, so despite being one of if not our best inside mid in 2015, he has the versatility to spend time in other areas of the ground as team balance and rotations dictate.

Yep. Libba back will make it easier for the likes of Wallis and Bonts rather than take a spot.

Bonts will have less attention on him. He can also literally play anywhere.

Wallis will have someone helping him out in the clearances. Our engine room is pretty light on. As you mention, Mitch is also handy up forward.

[Smads57]

Looking forward to the midfield strength we will potentially have next year with Libba returning...now for a ruckman.

[bornadog]

In 2016 Tom added another string to his bow by becoming a regular goal kicker. Mids that kick goals as well are more damaging than your average mid. Despite coming back from a knee reco and sustaining an ankle towards the end of the year, Tom had a pretty good season. I think barring injury, he will have a huge year in 2017.

Some highlights of 2016:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7R4YjVylTxM

[Twodogs]

Tom would be the main man if it wasn't for the Bont. A bit like GAJ was at Geelong.

[ratsmac]

He seems like a ripping bloke. I'd love to sit and have a few checky bevs with him.

His form laat year was brilliant for anyone's standards and he just came back from a knee and battled injuries through out the year. He's definitely cut from the same cloth as the old man. He bleeds red white and blue. Champion.

I can't wait to see what highlights he gives us in 2017. As mentioned earlier he added goal kicking last year to go with his contested beast style, so what will he bring this year I wonder.

[Twodogs]

He seems like a ripping bloke. I'd love to sit and have a few checky bevs with him.

His form laat year was brilliant for anyone's standards and he just came back from a knee and battled injuries through out the year. He's definitely cut from the same cloth as the old man. He bleeds red white and blue. Champion.

I can't wait to see what highlights he gives us in 2017. As mentioned earlier he added goal kicking last year to go with his contested beast style, so what will he bring this year I wonder.

Barry Price like delivery to moving targets inside the forward 50. Bullet like stab passing!

[Mantis]

Tom would be the main man if it wasn't for the Bont. A bit like GAJ was at Geelong.

What do you mean with this?

[Twodogs]

What do you mean with this?


The main man and a family link to the club. I love that sort of stuff, for me it's a large part of what footy clubs are all about.

[dukedog]

Sort of agree. I think in the media there are players more flashy that they grab the coat tales of. Libba is a workhorse. Hes not flashy. Media love flashy. Bont is a one in a generation of players.

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DZiW4qpVwAAkZdl.jpg

[ReLoad]

Wtf....

[bornadog]

Wtf....

Seen at training this week

[bulldogtragic]

Would prefer his ink on a new contract.

[Rocket Science]

I'm led to believe that's a portrait of Shane Biggs' bird 'Keith', named after a certain #5?

Even with the benefit of an explanation it's still hella weird man.

[Twodogs]

And Lagos is?

[SonofScray]

And Lagos is?

Thinkhwtrvelled to Portugal last summer. Must have enjoyed it, the bird life particularly.

[Eastdog]

And Lagos is?

Largest city in Nigeria.

[bornadog]

Largest city in Nigeria.

More likely Portugal because he went to Europe for his break.

[Eastdog]

More likely Portugal because he went to Europe for his break.

Yep there is a Lagos in Portugal.

[FrediKanoute]

Lagos was (probably still is) an amazing,y decadent party town on the backpacker trail. You could get lost for weeks I the cheap booze, cheap food, great beach and old town streets. It's on the Algarve in Portugal

[SlimPickens]

Largest city in Nigeria.

Thanks Wiki.;)

[Eastdog]

Thanks Wiki.;)

No worries :)

[Axe Man]

Libba sure is a different cat. He was in the Social Club on Friday night sporting some sort of man bun arrangement on the top of his head and revealed he had just purchased 2 pet guinea pigs named Big Papa and G Unit (if memory serves).

Also enjoyed his answer to Danny's query about whether he could make an unlikely return should we somehow go deep into September this year - said he wouldn't be available as the Asian AFL championships would be on. :D

[westdog54]

Libba sure is a different cat. He was in the Social Club on Friday night sporting some sort of man bun arrangement on the top of his head and revealed he had just purchased 2 pet guinea pigs named Big Papa and G Unit (if memory serves).

Also enjoyed his answer to Danny's query about whether he could make an unlikely return should we somehow go deep into September this year - said he wouldn't be available as the Asian AFL championships would be on. :D

He wouldn't be the first Liberatore to make a miraculous comeback from an ACL.

[Axe Man]

https://i.postimg.cc/BbZBLKBw/libba.jpg (https://postimg.cc/qhY3WgY8)

[Twodogs]

Congrats Tom and partner.

That moment there-where they hand you that little bundle-that's the greatest moment in your life. Footy, premierships and the rest takes second spot to the bub. And that sense of sorting your priorities is when you start to mature. I think that Tom's best footy is about to be played.


You can't begin to understand the emotion if you haven't done it, it's impossible to explain

[comrade]

That moment there-where they hand you that little bundle-that's the greatest moment in your life. Footy, premierships and the rest takes second spot to the bub. And that sense of sorting your priorities is when you start to mature. I think that Tom's best footy is about to be played.


I dunno, 2016 GF day was right up there.

You can always have more kids. Premierships are mch harder to come by, especially for Dogs fans.

[bulldogtragic]

So, 2038 draft?

[bornadog]

Can't believe Tom has had a child at 27 years old. Good luck to him and his partner, hope it all works out.

[AshMac]

Congrats Tom and partner.

That moment there-where they hand you that little bundle-that's the greatest moment in your life. Footy, premierships and the rest takes second spot to the bub. And that sense of sorting your priorities is when you start to mature. I think that Tom's best footy is about to be played.


You can't begin to understand the emotion if you haven't done it, it's impossible to explain

Don’t know if his best footy is still in front of him or not, but this will definitely focus him and hopefully give him a sense of purpose in his footy as his career. Would love to see him back to his 2016 form - god he was impactful!

[GVGjr]

Don’t know if his best footy is still in front of him or not, but this will definitely focus him and hopefully give him a sense of purpose in his footy as his career. Would love to see him back to his 2016 form - god he was impactful!

He's always seemed to be a player that has responded very well to challenges and hopefully this might be the spur to really get stuck into it this year. I remain very hopeful that despite his injury setbacks we will see a very good version of Tom Liberatore on the park this year

[Go_Dogs]

Can't believe Tom has had a child at 27 years old. Good luck to him and his partner, hope it all works out.

What's the issue with his age?

[Twodogs]

What's the issue with his age?

It's a little on the young side these days. The western suburbs tend to be awash with twenty something parents angry at the world because they had kids in their teen years and now think they hold them back. I don't think that 27 is too young but I can see why some would.

[Remi Moses]

Normal age I would have
Thought
Wonderful news for Tom and family , and fingers crossed the footballer gene is passed on

[bornadog]

What's the issue with his age?

No Issue, just unusual in this day and age


It's a little on the young side these days. The western suburbs tend to be awash with twenty something parents angry at the world because they had kids in their teen years and now think they hold them back. I don't think that 27 is too young but I can see why some would.

I wonder what the average age is these days

Edit: Just checked, the average age now is over 30 for women

[ledge]

No Issue, just unusual in this day and age



I wonder what the average age is these days

Edit: Just checked, the average age now is over 30 for women

I had my first at 28 and thought it was a bit old, always wanted two but the next one had to wait 5 years due to mortgage etc.
Funny I mentioned to my son last May he is now the same age as me when I had him , his reponse was gee that’s young.
I think it depends on how many kids you want I would think the perfect age would be around 31-33 to have your last child.

[Axe Man]

I think it depends on how many kids you want I would think the perfect age would be around 31-33 to have your last child.

Perfect for who? There is no "perfect age", everybody is different.

[ledge]

Perfect for who? There is no "perfect age", everybody is different.

Well you don’t want to be to old to do things with them when they are older but You want to have experienced life before you have children , so personally I think 27 is a good age,your in your 40s when they are in their teens.
Just an opinion.

[GVGjr]

Perfect for who? There is no "perfect age", everybody is different.

There is a tendency in football to judge players by their age, height, speed or experience etc and in this instance about becoming a parent
In most instances it's nearly always one of those classic 'time will tell' scenario's.

I seem to recall that Stringer was seen by many as a mature type because he became a parent at something like 19 and now some might find Liberatore at 27 as being a bit young

You're 100% spot on, there is no real perfect age and most people are different

[bornadog]

There is a tendency in football to judge players by their age, height, speed or experience etc and in this instance about becoming a parent
In most instances it's nearly always one of those classic 'time will tell' scenario's.

I seem to recall that Stringer was seen by many as a mature type because he became a parent at something like 19 and now some might find Liberatore at 27 as being a bit young

You're 100% spot on, there is no real perfect age and most people are different

He is only young due to the average in society now, nothing wrong with having a child at his age in life, each to their own

[GVGjr]

He is only young due to the average in society now, nothing wrong with having a child at his age in life, each to their own

But his age was called out before you knew what the average was and only was done after GD queried the reference to his age.
I think given his career including his attitude and approach to life, Liberatore has frequently proven to be anything but average.
It's likely that time will tell if the average is relevant.

[AshMac]

He's always seemed to be a player that has responded very well to challenges and hopefully this might be the spur to really get stuck into it this year. I remain very hopeful that despite his injury setbacks we will see a very good version of Tom Liberatore on the park this year

If he can play 20 games this year, then to date we are getting excited about the wrong players. The potential impact Libba can bring to the team would be the greatest of our list IMO - spiritually and physically.

I’ll remain optimistic and hopeful that we e see the Libba we’ve all been waiting 3 years for back again.

[Mofra]

If he can play 20 games this year, then to date we are getting excited about the wrong players. The potential impact Libba can bring to the team would be the greatest of our list IMO - spiritually and physically.

I’ll remain optimistic and hopeful that we e see the Libba we’ve all been waiting 3 years for back again.
Where does that leave our midfield rotations?
One track watcher said Bailey Smith has been playing wing - he can do that. How do we rotate Bont, Macrae and Dunkley through the middle? Bont and Macrae can play outside, Dunks less so. Libba is a beautiful left foot kick but his strength is winning the ball and tackling so he'd be the 'extracter' when he's in there.

Will he be happy to start on the bench as an 'impact' player and have the odd stint forward as a defensive forward? We do tend to play a 6th mid as a forward but Libba isn't that great at it.

[The Pie Man]

Where does that leave our midfield rotations?
One track watcher said Bailey Smith has been playing wing - he can do that. How do we rotate Bont, Macrae and Dunkley through the middle? Bont and Macrae can play outside, Dunks less so. Libba is a beautiful left foot kick but his strength is winning the ball and tackling so he'd be the 'extracter' when he's in there.

Will he be happy to start on the bench as an 'impact' player and have the odd stint forward as a defensive forward? We do tend to play a 6th mid as a forward but Libba isn't that great at it.

Smith on a wing could be a beautiful thing. Any clues on his tank (other than looking ripping fit)?

[Sedat]

We are 4-0 in finals with Libba in the team and 0-2 in finals without him. When fully fit, Libba only makes us stronger.

[mjp]

But his age was called out before you knew what the average was and only was done after GD queried the reference to his age.
I think given his career including his attitude and approach to life, Liberatore has frequently proven to be anything but average.
It's likely that time will tell if the average is relevant.
JJ had a child last year and (happy to be corrected) his age wasn’t mentioned.

He is the same age as Tom.

[GVGjr]

JJ had a child last year and (happy to be corrected) his age wasn’t mentioned.

He is the same age as Tom.

Good point.

[bornadog]

JJ had a child last year and (happy to be corrected) his age wasn’t mentioned.

He is the same age as Tom.


Good point.


But his age was called out before you knew what the average was and only was done after GD queried the reference to his age.

I am not sure why a big deal is being made. All I said was I was surprised at his age he is a father. Also, what you are saying GVGjr is incorrect. I was going on experience. My daughter is 26 and none of her friends are married or with kids.

It is a known fact people are leaving marriage and birth to their 30s now. I followed up with the average, to prove a point, but as I said who cares, it is up to individuals.

Why go on about it.

[GVGjr]

I am not sure why a big deal is being made. All I said was I was surprised at his age he is a father. Also, what you are saying GVGjr is incorrect. I was going on experience. My daughter is 26 and none of her friends are married or with kids.

It is a known fact people are leaving marriage and birth to their 30s now. I followed up with the average, to prove a point, but as I said who cares, it is up to individuals.

Why go on about it.

You've provided the clarity and thanks for that.
The point I'm making is from what I have seen with Liberatore over the years he strikes me as a unique type not one likely to be in the 'averages'.

[bornadog]

You've provided the clarity and thanks for that.
The point I'm making is from what I have seen with Liberatore over the years he strikes me as a unique type not one likely to be in the 'averages'.

That I agree with for sure. I hope he has a good season, because he will be invaluable if fit and firing and best 22 as far as I am concerned.

[AshMac]

Where does that leave our midfield rotations?
One track watcher said Bailey Smith has been playing wing - he can do that. How do we rotate Bont, Macrae and Dunkley through the middle? Bont and Macrae can play outside, Dunks less so. Libba is a beautiful left foot kick but his strength is winning the ball and tackling so he'd be the 'extracter' when he's in there.

Will he be happy to start on the bench as an 'impact' player and have the odd stint forward as a defensive forward? We do tend to play a 6th mid as a forward but Libba isn't that great at it.

I can see Libba resting in the forward line more than Dunkley - but yeh it’s force one out. Like the idea of bailey smith on a wing assumed given his age it’s be him

[Twodogs]

There's a big difference between having a child as a result of a long term relationship (like Tom) and just knocking up the first girl you get to do it with( like a lot of kids did in my day).

Age has little to do with how good a parent you are. The mother of my kids is 15 years younger than me and she is a terrific parent.

[bornadog]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TprpHQlVmzA&feature=youtu.be

[AshMac]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TprpHQlVmzA&feature=youtu.be

Did he say Oscar is his second kid? He already has a 5 year old daughter?

[comrade]

Did he say Oscar is his second kid? He already has a 5 year old daughter?

Yeah I noticed that, might not be his biological child?

[chef]

She stars in most of his insta stories.

[AshMac]

There goes the theory about fatherhood changing him.

[Mofra]

Must be tough doing rehab while being a new dad. He was already all but ruled out of round 1, he may not be in the frame for selection for a while.

[AshMac]

Must be tough doing rehab while being a new dad. He was already all but ruled out of round 1, he may not be in the frame for selection for a while.

He is back to running and upping the load every session. I thought it sounded positive for his return. Perhaps not Rd 1 though agree

[Axe Man]

"HE'S A KILLER": RATINGS SUGGEST STAR BULLDOG IS A TOP-FIVE PLAYER IN 2023 (https://www.sen.com.au/news/2023/05/15/hes-a-killer-ratings-suggest-star-bulldog-is-a-top-five-player-in-2023/)

Western Bulldogs midfielder Tom Liberatore is having a career season in 2023.

While the 30-year-old is a premiership player and best and fairest winner, the on-baller is thriving with a bigger role this campaign.

Liberatore?s best game of the season so far might have been against Carlton in Round 9 as he was best afield with 26 disposals, nine tackles, 13 clearances and a critical last-quarter goal in the tight win.

Looking at Champion Data player ratings, SEN?s David King revealed that Liberatore is the highest-rated player across the last month and the second-highest-rated player so far this season, just behind his captain Marcus Bontempelli.

?It (the highest-rated player last month) is Libba (Liberatore) which is terrific,? King told SEN Whateley.

?You look across the course of the season, Bont (Marcus Bontempelli) is number one (with a 19.89 rating), Libba is number two (with an 18.09 rating) and Tim English is number five (with a 16.12 rating) in the competition (in terms of player ratings).

?So that sort of snuck up on me a little bit, I knew that English was having a good year, he does it in different ways.

?But for Libba to be back and this player (is impressive).?

While the Bulldogs were disappointed to lose star midfielder Josh Dunkley to Brisbane in the off-season, King pondered whether his absence has made the Dogs a better side with Bontempelli and Liberatore having increased roles.

?I keep looking at the Dogs and asking the question, ?Are they better after Dunkley's exit??, you can have a win-win, we?re not denigrating the fact that he's not there,? King explained.

?But what it's done has challenged Bont to be a better clearance player and it's given Libba opportunity.

?Last year he was playing half-forward at the start of the season, so he?s regenerated.

?He's a killer, I would love to play with Libba, on and off field because I just think he brings an energy, and he brings a passion that's all consuming and drags others along.

?Like you got Arthur Jones trying to match Libba's intensity and that's because you see it, you?ve got to match it.

?So, what he's doing is quite brilliant.?

SEN?s Gerard Whateley agreed with King that Bulldogs players are beginning to match their star leaders in terms of output.

With Bontempelli a dominant force all season, Whateley is seeing younger teammates follow in his and Liberatore?s lead.

?So, I thought the see it, match it, was there,? Whateley said.

?Bontempelli has had those games this season where, ?Hey, we're not walking off this field without victory?, then in the last 10 minutes, he didn't have to do it this time.

?They embodied the almost that mantra that he'd given them, they'd watched him do it and other players rose to meet (his performances).

?We would have totally forgiven the Bulldogs if they'd got overrun at the end there, they'd been on the road three out of four (games).

?They'd played some really gruelling footy in tough conditions.

?They were playing against the team with that heightened emotional charge and they'd led for most of the night.

?If they'd got rolled over by a goal or two at the end, we would have gone, ?Yeah, that's the price of doing business?.

?But no, they got headed twice, they stood against it.

?It was a different set of players (that won the game).

?I just think that tells you everything you need to know about the Bulldogs this year.?

The Bulldogs will hope to win their fifth consecutive game when they host Adelaide in a huge clash at Mars Stadium in Ballarat on Saturday.

[bornadog]

Actually 31 today

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FvKbfZzacAA9Qf9?format=jpg&name=large

[Bulldog Joe]

If he maintains the form he should be AA.

It is unbelievable that he hasn't been.

Nice stat that according to Champion Data we have 3 of the top 5 in the comp.

Just need the others to grow into the season and everything is possible.

[AshMac]

If he maintains the form he should be AA.

It is unbelievable that he hasn't been.

Nice stat that according to Champion Data we have 3 of the top 5 in the comp.

Just need the others to grow into the season and everything is possible.

The impact he has on the game at his age is immense. What a weapon. He?ll probably need a statue outside Whitten oval

[Topdog]

Incredible player, such drive and determination and doing it all whilst being offered 1 year contracts because we cant trust his body.

[angelopetraglia]

Incredible player, such drive and determination and doing it all whilst being offered 1 year contracts because we cant trust his body.

Early days was their also an element that we didn't trusty his off field behavior? However, in recent times he appears to be a changed man. A family man.

[Topdog]

Early days was their also an element that we didn't trusty his off field behavior? However, in recent times he appears to be a changed man. A family man.

Yeah that was a long time back. Think he was only 20 back then.

[hujsh]

Yeah that was a long time back. Think he was only 20 back then.

Was there maybe a bit of that still post 2016/17?

I know we enjoyed Libba's off field antics but his football really suffered post GF and it seemed his career would be just another of many premiership players that petered out.

Given how conservative the club has been off field (no fun banners, no fun song before the match etc) it wouldn't surprise me if the off field stuff made them feel he wasn't totally trustworthy in more than one way

[Bulldog Joe]

Was there maybe a bit of that still post 2016/17?

Wasn't there a story that he was basically out the door at the end of 2017, but he made a commitment to do everything required and more.

Came back for 2018 preseason in great shape but then did his second knee.

Since then the only issue has been managing his body.

[angelopetraglia]

Yeah that was a long time back. Think he was only 20 back then.

He was 24 when we won the GF. He was still a pretty loose unit back then and for a few years after from memory.

[hujsh]

Wasn't there a story that he was basically out the door at the end of 2017, but he made a commitment to do everything required and more.

Came back for 2018 preseason in great shape but then did his second knee.

Since then the only issue has been managing his body.

That seems pretty accurate to me

[Topdog]

He was 24 when we won the GF. He was still a pretty loose unit back then and for a few years after from memory.

It doesnt feel like we won the GF 7 years ago. I feel so old.

[Hotdog60]

Veteran Dog rejoins leadership group after nine-year absence

Tom Liberatore has been appointed vice-captain at the Western Bulldogs for 2024

https://resources.afl.com.au/photo-resources/2023/07/27/377e9da9-22a8-44f0-90ea-902729794ece/d9F13A3Q.jpg?width=1064&height=600

WESTERN Bulldogs veteran Tom Liberatore has been appointed vice-captain for the 2024 season, nine years after the midfielder was last in the leadership group at the Whitten Oval.

The 31-year-old has been one of the most consistent performers at the club across the past four seasons, finishing second or third in every Charles Sutton Medal since 2020.

Former St Kilda skipper Jarryn Geary joined the Bulldogs as leadership and development coach during the off-season and led the leadership process this month, with Liberatore featuring prominently in the votes.

Five-time All-Australian and five-time best and fairest winner Marcus Bontempelli will captain the club for the fifth consecutive year in 2024.

Iconic club figure Ted Whitten led the Bulldogs on 212 occasions ? the fifth most in VFL/AFL history ? and will take some beating, even though Bontempelli is only 28.

Star key forward Aaron Naughton and All-Australian Caleb Daniel have both been named deputy vice-captains.

https://resources.afl.com.au/photo-resources/2023/04/21/d708c0df-cfaa-4b7b-aa26-4b3101caf3fd/FbqCuVO3.jpg?width=1064&height=600

After having a five-man leadership group last season, the Dogs have added three new names to the group, while Jack Macrae hasn?t been included this season.

Liam Jones has been recognised for his great return season to the club ? and to the AFL ? with a leadership title, along with emerging star Ed Richards.

The pair both produced brilliant 2023 campaigns, putting themselves in All-Australian contention mid-year before injury setbacks. Richards still finished third in the Sutton Medal, while Jones came fifth.

Veteran small defender Taylor Duryea has been retained in the leadership group, underlining his standing inside the four walls of the club.

LINK (https://www.afl.com.au/news/1076344/veteran-dog-tom-liberatore-rejoins-leadership-group-after-nine-year-absence)

[D Mitchell]

It doesnt feel like we won the GF 7 years ago. I feel so old.
How do you reckon Tom feels ? he's in his 28th year ! Have a look at that face, it's learned a lot more than 28 years can teach a bloke, a natural mentor for James O'Donnell.

[Grantysghost]

How do you reckon Tom feels ? he's in his 28th year ! Have a look at that face, it's learned a lot more than 28 years can teach a bloke, a natural mentor for James O'Donnell.

32nd year :)

[bornadog]

Great achievement from Tom. On field and training he has been nothing but a professional and deserves his vice captaincy.

As Bevo said, he has learnt to mature quickly after a few off field discretions which he has left behind him.

[Happy Days]

32nd year :)

Many are saying 32 is the new 24.

[hujsh]

Many are saying 32 is the new 24.

Apparently Gen Z are aging terribly so 32 might basically be the same as 24

[D Mitchell]

32nd year :)
If I'd been any good at maths, I'd have been a engineer - in which case, half of Melbourne's bridges would be falling down.

[ledge]

Tom matured . He is a father now isn’t he ? That in itself brings maturity.
I think it’s a lot of the group who came along with him have matured together.
They have partners and children.

He also has a strange quirky lovable personality that would make you play for him. We all love him.

[EasternWest]

Many are saying 32 is the new 24.

Most are saying it's old AF though.

[bornadog]

Tom signs for another year

Tom Liberatore’s extraordinary career will extend into a 15th AFL season after agreement on a one-year contract extension at Mission Whitten Oval.

The 31-year-old is locked into the Club until at least the end of 2025, rewarded for his remarkable consistency with an early extension this season.

Drafted as a father-son in the 2010 National Draft, Liberatore has carved out an exceptional career that includes an AFL Premiership and Charles Sutton Medal, as well as being named vice-captain of his boyhood club in 2024.

Liberatore averaged 27 touches per game last season and was named in the All Australian squad of 40.

Bulldogs General Manager of List and Recruiting Sam Power was delighted to keep Liberatore at the Kennel for at least another season.

“Tom epitomises the heart and soul of the Western Bulldogs and we’re thrilled to extend him into 2025,” Power said.

“His level of consistency over a long period of time stands up with some of the best midfielders in the competition, alongside his ability to lead and bring younger players with him on the journey.

“Being named vice-captain this season was great reward for Tom. He’s a very popular member of the locker room and leads by example on field, playing a selfless role through our midfield.

“Tom really believes in what the Club is building on and off field and fans should look forward to seeing the No. 21 running out for years to come.”

Liberatore was pleased to have his contract locked away for another season.

“I’m rapt to sign again, it has been a great journey so far,” Liberatore said.

“It is really nice to get it done this early particularly given the start to the season and I am focused on what we’re building here at the Club.

“I’ll try and catch the old man, think he played for 16 years so I’m one behind.

“It is a great honour to play for the Club I grew up supporting and to play in the same place Dad did for such a long period of time is a great privilege and honour.

“The connection between the old and young players is really strong, the VFL is going well, obviously a long way to go but the future is looking exciting.”

[ledge]

Tommmmmeeeeee

[Eastdog]

Great stuff. Tom is the heart and soul of our club and a great player. His best footy for us has been over the last few seasons.

[bornadog]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFufYA24hws&ab_channel=WesternBulldogs

[MrMahatma]

Glad he’s able to go around again.

He sounds confident about how we’re shaping up for the season ahead!

[EasternWest]

I'm worried though because he's really, really, really old

[hujsh]

I'm worried though because he's really, really, really old

https://trailers.getyarn.io/yarn-clip/2022bd74-901d-4401-8647-d441c9b24ed3/gif
https://y.yarn.co/2022bd74-901d-4401-8647-d441c9b24ed3_text.gif

[EasternWest]

https://trailers.getyarn.io/yarn-clip/2022bd74-901d-4401-8647-d441c9b24ed3/gif
https://y.yarn.co/2022bd74-901d-4401-8647-d441c9b24ed3_text.gif

That's true. They say I change when the sun goes down.

[lemmon]

Great news. We've been very, very lucky with the no-fuss way that guys like Libba, Bont and Macrae have gone about their contract extensions.

[Uninformed]

Unbelievably good player. Freakish ability to get ball and distribute accurately.

[Ozza]

He's still one of the players who can influence and get momentum going back in our way. Unbelievable how he is going. A few years back he was starting to look like he was gone - and our ladder position reflected his drop off at the time. So important to us.

[Uninformed]

He's still one of the players who can influence and get momentum going back in our way. Unbelievable how he is going. A few years back he was starting to look like he was gone - and our ladder position reflected his drop off at the time. So important to us.

Can never forget the difference getting Tom and Jack Macrae back from injury in time for the 2016 finals. Absolutely the difference!

[Eastdog]

Can never forget the difference getting Tom and Jack Macrae back from injury in time for the 2016 finals. Absolutely the difference!

They were big ins at that time coming off the pre finals break in 2016. All the those Bulldog finals were great in 2016. The Hawks Semi was fantastic knocking off the 3 time premiers in a come from behind win.

[ledge]

Wasn’t his younger brother supposed to be pretty good ? I wonder what happened to him.

[Bulldog4life]

Wasn’t his younger brother supposed to be pretty good ? I wonder what happened to him.

Yes Ollie was his name...Oliver. BT will know.

[angelopetraglia]

Moving this to the Tom Liberatore thread.

So that is four concussions for Libba in the last year.

Fremantle @ Perth
Hawthorn @ Tasmania
Essendon @ Marvel
Hawthorn @ Marvel

Freo concussion https://x.com/9NewsMelb/status/1649697887096561664

Hawthorn in Tasmania https://www.afl.com.au/afl/matches/4973#match-report (video in the match report)


After rewatching these and then seeing what we have seen against the Bombers and now Hawthorn next year, I think he will have to strongly consider his future in the game. He probably will not even have a choice. They are too similar and they have all happened in a short period of time.

Four concussions in the last year. Three concussions in his last ten games.

Incredibily emotional and sad. But I do think we have seen the last of Libba.

[chef]

I don't even want to think about it tbh.

[kruder]

I don't even want to think about it tbh.

Yeah one of my all time favourite bulldogs. It was bloody sad to see him stumble at the game I was more thinking of him last night than Bevo to be honest.

[Grantysghost]

Got nothing to gain by playing on for mine.

Done it all, i think he needs to prioritise his health with a young family.

[angelopetraglia]

Incredibly sad and he just got the VC role, was still playing some unbelivable football. Just devastating for him, the club and the supporters who love him so much.

[bulldogtragic]

Looks a little like Picken in terms of racking up concussions later on in his career. We can’t repeat that under any circumstances. At a minimum a long holiday and medical advice.

[hujsh]

VC role actually cursed

[bulldogtragic]

VC role actually cursed

Between that, 19 and leading goal kicker it’s just evil.

[Rocket Science]

Sigh.

As if this crew aren't tough enough to love as it is, don't come at me with no Libba.

The joint'll need a heart transplant.

[jazzadogs]

Will we tap a photocopy of his tattoos as we run out on to the ground?

(using humour to cope, love you libba)

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Gutted about this.

Such an inspiration and for a VERY long time. Heart and soul of the club.

It pains me to say it but I don't want to see him like this again. He's gotta hang the boots up. Owes us nothing. We'll be worse for it, but his welfare is the priority.

[josie]

Agree with all woofers. Risk isn?t worth it. Young family, rest of his life etc. Said elsewhere a specialist mentor/coach role to further develop Sanders, Garcia would be good do we still keep him at the club.

[GVGjr]

From Code Sports (https://www.codesports.com.au/afl/afl-2024-all-the-mro-news-from-round-8/news-story/a1ebc4386ee3fdf2d7a16e39286bdd8c)

Tom Liberatore has been urged to consider his football future, after being sidelined indefinitely by the Western Bulldogs following a fourth concussion in 22 AFL games.

Liberatore absorbed a heavy blow from Hawthorn's Karl Amon and then stumbled badly after his forehead was cut open by opponent Conor Nash's boot on Sunday.

The Dogs on Monday said their medical team had ruled a concussive episode had occurred.

Last year, Liberatore was twice left badly shaken and ruled out with concussion the first in a round 6 collision with Fremantle's Andrew Brayshaw, the second in round 22 against Hawthorn.

The indefinite absence will give him time to assess his chances of a safe return to football, given his recent concussions and the combative, physical role he plays.

He is not believed to be considering retirement at this stage, but instead will take time to work on his recovery.

After a second concussion in as many games across 21 days, Latrobe University concussion researcher Alan Pearce has urged Liberatore to think carefully about his future.

https://content.api.news/v3/images/bin/82ff2e0c17ab1616d2d0f9ed30db9e9f?width=1024

"I would be highly concerned about four concussions in 12 months," Professor Pearce said.

"We have seen from the research that anyone who has a lifetime concussion history of three is at risk of cognitive impairments later in life.

"Two in 21 days is really concerning. We need to do better at recovery protocols.


Why can't we have 21 days for AFL players like we do for community players, irrespective of medical expertise"

Doctors have to become more conservative, irrespective of class actions.

"This is brain health, not a hamstring or ACL. If players take an extra couple of weeks off, it can extend their careers by years. If the AFL is truly sincere about athlete health, they have to show it."

On a day of setbacks for Liberatore, he also copped a one-game ban from the AFL for a slinging tackle on Hawthorn's Will Day.

He spun and dumped Day into the ground in an incident where his Hawthorn opponent hit his head on the Marvel Stadium turf.

But that suspension is now immaterial given a likely extended absence.

The medicos at Whitten Oval have shown extreme caution with players in the past year, with ruckman Tim English sidelined for some time as the club assessed headache-type symptoms that were eventually shown not to be concussion.

Draftee Aiden O'Driscoll is also yet to return to the game after being involved in a sickening collision with Aaron Naughton that saw a summer intraclub game called off.

The Dogs are bracing for a lawsuit from premiership player Liam Picken as he seeks to separate himself from a 100-person class action, alleging a breach of duty of care from the club.

It means the club is in a heightened state of alert about the fallout of concussions.

Liberatore is a club favourite and premiership player who only recently signed a one-year contract extension.

But his past month has been challenging.

Liberatore collapsed late in the round 5 game against Essendon. He passed a head injury assessment, but was ruled to have been concussed in an abundance of caution despite no obvious incident.

He missed round 6 through the concussion protocols and then sat out round 7 with illness.

He returned against Hawthorn last weekend, only to be concussed again.

The Dogs said in a statement: Having suffered two concussions within a short space of time, Tom will be unavailable for an indefinite period.

[GVGjr]

I just wonder how we even attempt to manage this. 4 concussions in 12 months is a serious challenge for the player let alone a club with some pending concussions legal cases.

Liberatore might want to play on so the challenge for the club and medicos is how this can best be managed to protect Tom going forward.

[bulldogtragic]

I said it earlier. It feels like Picken and nobody should want that. He’s a personal footy hero of mine and I couldn’t live with reading an article in future years like Picken or Kellett.

We will be screwed with no first rounder, then no Libba, Dunkley, Hunter, no Smith next year, Macrae & Daniel all but cooked. Life’s not going to be fun but there’s a lot more to focus on for Libba and those who love or idolise him.

[josie]

Well said BTragic.

[angelopetraglia]

I?m sinking into a state of deep football depression.

The clubs short term prospects looks clouded and just the thought of not seeing Tom Liberatore run out again in the red, white and blue is enough to send me into a deep hole.

[Grantysghost]

I?m sinking into a state of deep football depression.

The clubs short term prospects looks clouded and just the thought of not seeing Tom Liberatore run out again in the red, white and blue is enough to send me into a deep hole.
I counter that with the thought of him having a healthy future and i feel better.

[Sedat]

We will be screwed with no first rounder, then no Libba, Dunkley, Hunter, no Smith next year, Macrae & Daniel all but cooked. Life’s not going to be fun but there’s a lot more to focus on for Libba and those who love or idolise him.
He's a father and a family man first and foremost. Nothing else frankly matters.

If we don't see him out on the park again, he has already given us so many wonderful memories. He needs to be given the best possible advice to ensure the rest of his life is able to be lived to its fullest without cognitive impairment. He and his family deserve nothing less.

[bulldogtragic]

He's a father and a family man first and foremost. Nothing else frankly matters.

If we don't see him out on the park again, he has already given us so many wonderful memories. He needs to be given the best possible advice to ensure the rest of his life is able to be lived to its fullest without cognitive impairment. He and his family deserve nothing less.

100%.

[hujsh]

He's a father and a family man first and foremost. Nothing else frankly matters.

If we don't see him out on the park again, he has already given us so many wonderful memories. He needs to be given the best possible advice to ensure the rest of his life is able to be lived to its fullest without cognitive impairment. He and his family deserve nothing less.

He has given us enough. Someone else needs to step up and carry his load

[Sedat]

I?m sinking into a state of deep football depression.

The clubs short term prospects looks clouded and just the thought of not seeing Tom Liberatore run out again in the red, white and blue is enough to send me into a deep hole.
I take a different approach. We are being absolutely smashed from pillar to post by everyone in the footy community - we should batten down the hatches, eliminate all the irrelevant external white noise, look each other in the eye and dedicate the rest of this season to Libba. There would be no greater legacy for his playing career than to have success this year using him as the guide and inspiration.

It would be too easy for the club to revert to victim mode, which would be deeply insulting to the way Libba has played throughout his career. We must be better than that and chase this season like there is no tomorrow, because for a number of players and the senior coach there may well literally be no tomorrow. They are privileged to be able to play/coach footy every week (something that might have been prematurely taken away from Libba), and they are duty-bound to make the absolute most of every moment and every game. Park 2025 and beyond to the side and focus on the now - great things can be achieved with laser focus, clarity, persistence and determination.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Tom is such a heart and soul player we will miss him incredibly, but I just don't see how continuing on can be worth the risk for him.
As much as his teammates need him (and they clearly do need him!) it pales into comparison as to how much his family need him.

Thank you for your contribution Tom, for giving me and many thousands of others some amazing football memories.
You deservedly sit right up there amongst the most important footballers of this club's history.

Obviously I'm being very premature, but I just don't want to see this legend to endure anymore head knocks, and the type of player he is, he's not going to help himself with how he plays; its in his DNA.

[GVGjr]

Tom is such a heart and soul player we will miss him incredibly, but I just don't see how continuing on can be worth the risk for him.
As much as his teammates need him (and they clearly do need him!) it pales into comparison as to how much his family need him.

Thank you for your contribution Tom, for giving me and many thousands of others some amazing football memories.
You deservedly sit right up there amongst the most important footballers of this club's history.

Obviously I'm being very premature, but I just don't want to see this legend to endure anymore head knocks, and the type of player he is, he's not going to help himself with how he plays; its in his DNA.

If one good thing has come out of all this dreadful concussion challenges that the competition is going through is how the supporters are now so understanding and acknowledging that it's not worth taking the risk and the need to look at the bigger picture.

I'm not so sure that even 5 years or so ago that the sentiment would have been what we are now seeing from our supporters.

[josie]

All heartfelt posts. Agree Sedat- let?s dedicate rest of season to the most beloved player.

[EasternWest]

He's a father and a family man first and foremost. Nothing else frankly matters.

If we don't see him out on the park again, he has already given us so many wonderful memories. He needs to be given the best possible advice to ensure the rest of his life is able to be lived to its fullest without cognitive impairment. He and his family deserve nothing less.

And let's never overlook what he gave the people of Vietnam.

[ledge]

If the AFL is serious on head hits why don’t they instruct umpires to call holding the ball earlier rather than wait for the tackler to have to bring the player to the ground ?
180 swing is enough, blow the whistle.
Players have been told to hold the ball as long as possible while getting tackled and don’t let it go so you don’t get called for dropping it.
Holding the ball is given way too much leeway. These head hits on the ground would at least half if umpires were instructed to blow the bloody whistle .

[jeemak]

I?m not going to advocate telling Tom that he can?t do everything he can to earn. To an extent his risk is his to own.

Continuing is a few hundred gorillas and to him that vs. where he is today is probably pretty big.

If the club steps in and stops him playing then that?s ok too, but we as supporters can?t pretend he has nothing to gain from continuing.

[bornadog]

I?m not going to advocate telling Tom that he can?t do everything he can to earn. To an extent his risk is his to own.

Continuing is a few hundred gorillas and to him that vs. where he is today is probably pretty big.

If the club steps in and stops him playing then that?s ok too, but we as supporters can?t pretend he has nothing to gain from continuing.

He will receive medical advice and make a decision from there. Whatever he chooses as you say is up to him. If he chooses to retire, it will be sad, and we will remember him for a long time, just like his father.

[Mofra]

Tom's a father now too so that surely has to factor into his thinking. I'd hate to see another Picken / Kellett scenario

[Bulldog Joe]

If the AFL is serious on head hits why don’t they instruct umpires to call holding the ball earlier rather than wait for the tackler to have to bring the player to the ground ?
180 swing is enough, blow the whistle.
Players have been told to hold the ball as long as possible while getting tackled and don’t let it go so you don’t get called for dropping it.
Holding the ball is given way too much leeway. These head hits on the ground would at least half if umpires were instructed to blow the bloody whistle .

This is so much the required action and it should not need any sort of 360.
There needs an immediate whistle on a tackle and we need to penalise the player who makes no effort for anything other than a stoppage.
Stop rewarding players for putting themselves in unnecessary danger

[FrediKanoute]

He has given us enough. Someone else needs to step up and carry his load

This sums up the state of our team - no one steps up. No one grabs that initiative and says, "come on lads, follow me".

[macca]

Take are Tom of your health first, you have given the club heaps in spades.

[bornadog]

This is so much the required action and it should not need any sort of 360.
There needs an immediate whistle on a tackle and we need to penalise the player who makes no effort for anything other than a stoppage.
Stop rewarding players for putting themselves in unnecessary danger

Prior opportunity rule is what has caused this. Players just go for a stoppage as they won't try and get rid of the ball

[Bumper Bulldogs]

Truer words have not been spoken

[jeemak]

Prior opportunity rule is what has caused this. Players just go for a stoppage as they won't try and get rid of the ball

Umpires need to ball it up more quickly, and not await nomination of rucks.

Tackling techniques are so advanced now that pinging players immediately is unfair to the ball players. Get the game moving and if someone is taking the piss in attempting to get rid of it, ping them for holding the ball.

[Bulldog Joe]

Umpires need to ball it up more quickly, and not await nomination of rucks.

Tackling techniques are so advanced now that pinging players immediately is unfair to the ball players. Get the game moving and if someone is taking the piss in attempting to get rid of it, ping them for holding the ball.

It is simple enough.
Ball players should not be permitted to just hang on. Give them leeway for attempted disposal but don't allow to just take the tackle.
Reward the tackler when a player just holds the ball.
No ball up unless ball is pinned on with immediate tackle.

[bornadog]

It is simple enough.
Ball players should not be permitted to just hang on. Give them leeway for attempted disposal but don't allow to just take the tackle.
Reward the tackler when a player just holds the ball.
No ball up unless ball is pinned on with immediate tackle.

As ledge said, the players seem to have forever to get rid of the ball and they are swung around a few times and eventually put to ground, because the umpires have been told to give them that time.

[jeemak]

It is simple enough.
Ball players should not be permitted to just hang on. Give them leeway for attempted disposal but don't allow to just take the tackle.
Reward the tackler when a player just holds the ball.
No ball up unless ball is pinned on with immediate tackle.

I agree with this. Legitimate attempt to dispose of the ball when immediately tackled, no waiting around.

[angelopetraglia]

Mitch Cleary

Breaking - Great news for the Western Bulldogs. Tom Liberatore has been cleared by specialists to resume playing.
He’s eyeing off an AFL return inside three weeks after two concussions this season

[jeemak]

Mitch Cleary

Breaking - Great news for the Western Bulldogs. Tom Liberatore has been cleared by specialists to resume playing.
He’s eyeing off an AFL return inside three weeks after two concussions this season

Well there you go. Only an hour ago I posted this wasn't likely to happen based on my ample gut's feeling.

[angelopetraglia]

Amazing news for me that he doesn't have severe long lasting damage thaty they believe would rule him out of playing again. That is amazing news for his overall health.

Also, secondary. We get to see the great man again in red, white and blue.

Magnicent news on both fronts.

[angelopetraglia]

(From the club's website on the injury update)

Tom Liberatore is on track to return in the coming weeks as he nears recovery from a recent concussion.

Liberatore suffered the knock in the Round 8 loss to Hawthorn, taking on extensive specialist consultation as well as sitting inside the AFL protocols.

Western Bulldogs Head of Sports Medicine, Chris Bell, was able to give a pleasing update ahead of an impending return.

"We have continued to be very diligent and thorough in our processes for assessing and managing Tom following his most recent concussion in Round 8,” Bell said.

“This has involved specialist review and opinion to help guide his return to play planning.

“In some great news, after some reassuring results, we have a devised a structured return to play plan, that if everything goes well, will see Tom returning to play across the next 2-3 weeks."