Pre-season Training 2018

[bornadog]

Men's Team Key Dates


Thursday 9 November


1-4 players return for pre-season training


Monday 20 November


5 years + players return for pre-season training


Women's Team Key Dates


Monday 20 November


Pre-season training begins

[Twodogs]

Is Bont still a 1-4 year player?

Watching him train is a privilige. The kids a force of nature.

[westdog54]

Is Bont still a 1-4 year player?

Watching him train is a privilige. The kids a force of nature.

Heading into his 5th.

[bornadog]

Heading into his 5th.

That went quickly

[MrMahatma]

Give no we missed Sept, it feels like a long break.

[ledge]

Men's Team Key Dates


Thursday 9 November


1-4 players return for pre-season training


Monday 20 November


5 years + players return for pre-season training


Women's Team Key Dates


Monday 20 November


Pre-season training begins

Haha I thought why would only 1 to 4 players start training that early?

[ledge]

20 th November , go watch both teams train together.

[bulldogtragic]

Any updates on West or Khamis, training over summer with the club, would be appreciated.

[Twodogs]

Haha I thought why would only 1 to 4 players start training that early?


I'm still laughing mate. If only 1 player started training on 9/11 he wouldn't have anyone to kick the ball to. Imagine being the only bloke on the list told to report for training two weeks before everyone else.

[The Underdog]

I'm still laughing mate. If only 1 player started training on 9/11 he wouldn't have anyone to kick the ball to. Imagine being the only bloke on the list told to report for training two weeks before everyone else.

I’m guessing it’d be Libba....

[Eastdog]

Looking forward to all the training reports from woofers who attend training at Whitten Oval.

Big pre-season ahead going into a big 2018 for our club.

Go Dogs!

[bornadog]

Looking forward to all the training reports from woofers who attend training at Whitten Oval.

Big pre-season ahead going into a big 2018 for our club.

Go Dogs!

First year players have started :D


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DNyXaW9VAAAdamQ.jpg

[Twodogs]

I’m guessing it’d be Libba....


All things being equal it usually ends up being me.:(

[The Pedge]

Have we got a roster sorted so we can have a comprehensive report on each training session? Please and thanks. :D

[westdog54]

I'm still laughing mate. If only 1 player started training on 9/11 he wouldn't have anyone to kick the ball to. Imagine being the only bloke on the list told to report for training two weeks before everyone else.

Isn't that basically what Port Adelaide have done with their list?

[Smads57]

I will be interested in hearing which players are still recovering from post season operations. From Tim English's end of season review, he mentions not getting back fully on the track until 'just before Xmas'. Who else in the 1-4 year bracket are in the same boat?
I am also interested if Libba is there tomorrow following up from comments made around him starting training 'two weeks' earlier than required.

[bornadog]

Tom Boyd working with Schache

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

[bornadog]

The Bont and The Speciman back early for training

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DOJVf8IVoAAkO3O.jpg

[bornadog]

Schache's first session

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DOJUBJMU8AIOibP.jpg

[bornadog]

All pics thanks to WB twitter

[Axe Man]

What on earth is wrong with the surface? Looks in terrible condition.

[ledge]

What on earth is wrong with the surface? Looks in terrible condition.

Probably had a do over , gets done every few years to get the grass and the drainage up to date.

[Twodogs]

What on earth is wrong with the surface? Looks in terrible condition.



Looks like it has been top dressed to me.

[Axe Man]

Probably had a do over , gets done every few years to get the grass and the drainage up to date.


Looks like it has been top dressed to me.

That was my thinking as well but it looks like there's hardly any grass on the surface. Perhaps it's been cut really short and is covered by the sand? Also not sure why this couldn't have been completed earlier, prior to pre-season training commencing?

[bornadog]

That was my thinking as well but it looks like there's hardly any grass on the surface. Perhaps it's been cut really short and is covered by the sand? Also not sure why this couldn't have been completed earlier, prior to pre-season training commencing?

Tweet back from the Club (Nick Truelson )


At this time of year we always use the off season to strip it back and then bring it back to its best in lead up to Xmas.

[Axe Man]

Tweet back from the Club (Nick Truelson )

Fair enough, I'm no horticulturalist!

[jeemak]

Starve off the winter grass and let the warm season grass (usually a type of coch) which sits dormant during the depths of winter grow to get that nice carpet vibe. A lot of venues are using a winter green type couch these days.

When summer is done you overseed with a cool climate grass.

https://turfmate.com.au/overseeding-warm-season-grasses/

[Twodogs]

That was my thinking as well but it looks like there's hardly any grass on the surface. Perhaps it's been cut really short and is covered by the sand? Also not sure why this couldn't have been completed earlier, prior to pre-season training commencing?

We used to be able to blame the majestic hand of the city of Footscray for anything that went wrong at the ground and I'm a stickler for tradition. I'm sure City of Maribyrnong have stuffed up somewhere along the way.


Starve off the winter grass and let the warm season grass (usually a type of coch) which sits dormant during the depths of winter grow to get that nice carpet vibe. A lot of venues are using a winter green type couch these days.

When summer is done you overseed with a cool climate grass.

https://turfmate.com.au/overseeding-warm-season-grasses/


Who'd have thunk there were so many complications. Like the NFL player who was asked if he preferred playing on grass or AstroTurf. "No idea" he said "I've never smoked AstroTurf!"

[bornadog]

Big Dogs quick to pair up in training return (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-11-09/big-dogs-quick-to-pair-up-in-training-return)

Ryan Davidson November 9, 2017 3:30 PM


http://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/Schache-1622.jpg

Josh Schache trains at Whitten Oval on Thursday. Picture: Western Bulldogs

They looked really good together, so it's pretty excitingRohan Smith on Tom Boyd and Josh Schache


THE WESTERN Bulldogs have wasted no time paring Tom Boyd and Josh Schache in attack, with the young key forwards combining well on day one of pre-season training.

The first-to-fourth year players were put through paces, impressing the assistant coaches in the absence of Luke Beveridge.

Development manager Rohan Smith told AFL.com.au he was pleased with the immediate understanding Boyd and Schache formed.

Schache, who was the No.2 pick in the 2015 NAB AFL Draft, was traded to the Dogs from the Brisbane Lions for picks No.25 and 40 in this year's draft.

"We put them both together, they worked in conjunction really well and Tommy was helping Josh out with his movement," Smith said.

"They looked really good together, so it's pretty exciting."
While he had the coaches rapt with his work up forward, Smith was also thrilled with Schache's running on his first official day at the Bulldogs.

"He ran really well for a big guy, so we were really please with that," Smith said.
"Then with the skill component, you could see he is a very, very sound kick, so we were really pleased with how he performed today, and we're looking forward to him being a big part of the footy club.
"Josh really enjoyed himself and had a really good time out there."

Third-year key defender Marcus Adams was restricted to light duties in his return from a second serious foot injury in two seasons, but Smith said the hulking West Australian wasn't far away from taking part in full training.

Since being taken with pick No.35 in 2015, the impressive 24-year-old has suffered stress fractures in both his feet.
"Marcus is still in the rehab group and he could have trained today, but we just want to ease him into it in the first few weeks of training," Smith said.

"He looks super fit and exciting to look at because when you see him in the gym, you just think 'I can't wait until he gets out there.'
"He'll be fine."

The Bulldogs, including Josh Schache and Tom Boyd are put through their paces. Picture: Western Bulldogs
http://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/dogs-running.jpg

While Adams' return to training was a welcome sight for the Dogs, luckless defender Roarke Smith's appearance on the track had Smith beaming with pride.

The 21-year-old, who has had two knee reconstructions in the past 18 months, was delisted last week, but the club has promised the Calder Cannons product they will redraft him back onto the rookie list.

"I grabbed him as he walked out on the track and he said how good it was to be back out there again," Smith said.
"All the rookies can play straight away (under new AFL laws), so they all know now that if they perform at VFL level, they give themselves every opportunity to play senior footy."

The rest of the Bulldogs squad return to training on November 20.

[bulldogtragic]

Football porn. And I'm very excited.

[Eastdog]

Good report. A nice sunny day at Whitten Oval to kick off the pre season. Season 2018 here we come.

[Twodogs]

Good report. A nice sunny day at Whitten Oval to kick off the pre season. Season 2018 here we come.


Watch out 2018 here we come.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Judging by the vision, Boyd is sporting a much better body composition.

Excited to see him in 2018.

[Hotdog60]

Did Libba get out for his early start?

[kruder]

The Bont and The Speciman back early for training

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DOJVf8IVoAAkO3O.jpg

Just a reminder to all that Marcus Adams will look awful in his preseason games yet come round 1 having lost none of his ability will be ready to step up and become one of the most import players at the club ;) What a beast!

[The Doctor]

Boyd looks like an absolute beast.

[bornadog]

Boyd looks like an absolute beast.

He is a big boy

[bulldogtragic]

Big Dogs quick to pair up in training return (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-11-09/big-dogs-quick-to-pair-up-in-training-return)

Ryan Davidson November 9, 2017 3:30 PM


http://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/Schache-1622.jpg

Josh Schache trains at Whitten Oval on Thursday. Picture: Western Bulldogs

They looked really good together, so it's pretty excitingRohan Smith on Tom Boyd and Josh Schache


THE WESTERN Bulldogs have wasted no time paring Tom Boyd and Josh Schache in attack, with the young key forwards combining well on day one of pre-season training.

The first-to-fourth year players were put through paces, impressing the assistant coaches in the absence of Luke Beveridge.

Development manager Rohan Smith told AFL.com.au he was pleased with the immediate understanding Boyd and Schache formed.

Schache, who was the No.2 pick in the 2015 NAB AFL Draft, was traded to the Dogs from the Brisbane Lions for picks No.25 and 40 in this year's draft.

"We put them both together, they worked in conjunction really well and Tommy was helping Josh out with his movement," Smith said.

"They looked really good together, so it's pretty exciting."
While he had the coaches rapt with his work up forward, Smith was also thrilled with Schache's running on his first official day at the Bulldogs.

"He ran really well for a big guy, so we were really please with that," Smith said.
"Then with the skill component, you could see he is a very, very sound kick, so we were really pleased with how he performed today, and we're looking forward to him being a big part of the footy club.
"Josh really enjoyed himself and had a really good time out there."

Third-year key defender Marcus Adams was restricted to light duties in his return from a second serious foot injury in two seasons, but Smith said the hulking West Australian wasn't far away from taking part in full training.

Since being taken with pick No.35 in 2015, the impressive 24-year-old has suffered stress fractures in both his feet.
"Marcus is still in the rehab group and he could have trained today, but we just want to ease him into it in the first few weeks of training," Smith said.

"He looks super fit and exciting to look at because when you see him in the gym, you just think 'I can't wait until he gets out there.'
"He'll be fine."

The Bulldogs, including Josh Schache and Tom Boyd are put through their paces. Picture: Western Bulldogs
http://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/dogs-running.jpg

While Adams' return to training was a welcome sight for the Dogs, luckless defender Roarke Smith's appearance on the track had Smith beaming with pride.

The 21-year-old, who has had two knee reconstructions in the past 18 months, was delisted last week, but the club has promised the Calder Cannons product they will redraft him back onto the rookie list.

"I grabbed him as he walked out on the track and he said how good it was to be back out there again," Smith said.
"All the rookies can play straight away (under new AFL laws), so they all know now that if they perform at VFL level, they give themselves every opportunity to play senior footy."

The rest of the Bulldogs squad return to training on November 20.


Is it just me, or does Caleb (side on, helmet off) look eerily like wee-man running away and being chased after pranking a slim, by a bearded Preston Lacy?

[Dry Rot]

The Bont and The Speciman back early for training

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DOJVf8IVoAAkO3O.jpg

My eyes are crap, but the Bont looks taller than Adams to me.

[boydogs]

The Bont and The Speciman back early for training

Adams is a 1-4 year player

[Twodogs]

My eyes are crap, but the Bont looks taller than Adams to me.


I think the Bont is just obeying the latest AFL directive stating that from now on he has to play in high heels.

Anyway there is a line of delineation along the top of the photo indicating that Marcus is appreciably taller than Marcus, assuming he is standing more or less alongside Marcus.

[jazzadogs]

Boyd looks like an absolute beast.

And worth noting that he is a fifth year player, like Bont, and therefore is not technically due to start training for a few more weeks. Great to see him getting out there as early as possible, and looking in great shape at the same time.

[bornadog]

My eyes are crap, but the Bont looks taller than Adams to me.

According to Footywire, Bont is one cm taller, ie 193 v 192

[bulldogsthru&thru]

This might have been covered but what's the whereabouts on Libba? Wasn't it reported he would start early this preseason?

[jeemak]

This might have been covered but what's the whereabouts on Libba? Wasn't it reported he would start early this preseason?

Might be training privately.

[Twodogs]

This might have been covered but what's the whereabouts on Libba? Wasn't it reported he would start early this preseason?


May have been inside. Maybe the training wasn't physical and it was a new age wellness session? Nothing would suprise me.

[Mofra]

Tom Boyd looks enormous. Good to see him start early, he really could have a breakout year pairing with Shache.

[The Underdog]

This might have been covered but what's the whereabouts on Libba? Wasn't it reported he would start early this preseason?

Due to start on Nov 20. Still got 9 days to start early

[GVGjr]

And worth noting that he is a fifth year player, like Bont, and therefore is not technically due to start training for a few more weeks. Great to see him getting out there as early as possible, and looking in great shape at the same time.

I might be wrong here but they haven't completed their 5th season so I think they should be in the 1 to 4 year category. Not sure though

[Twodogs]

I might be wrong here but they haven't completed their 5th season so I think they should be in the 1 to 4 year category. Not sure though



Yep I think you are right. Technically Bont is 1-4 by a month or so.

Still to call it work...

[bornadog]

The boys are out in the heat:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DOeChELUIAAJH75.jpg

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

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DOeF04tUQAAVKdx.jpg

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DOeGeSJV4AYi1_k.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DOeF04pVQAApbr1.jpg

[Mofra]

Schache running with the mids? He must have an insane tank for a 200cm forward.

[Eastdog]

Great to see us hard at it.

[Go_Dogs]

Schache running with the mids? He must have an insane tank for a 200cm forward.

Imagine everyone is training together given it’s a small group.

[LostDoggy]

Bailey Williams body shape looks to be progressing well. Looking a lot more defined.

[Twodogs]

Imagine everyone is training together given it’s a small group.

I think what Mof means is that Schache keeping up with the mids in running drills is a good sign.

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DOeYI8qUIAAvfBE.jpg:large

[bornadog]

Fit, healthy and excited: Dunks eyes off 2018

After a year restricted by injury, Josh Dunkley is seeking some of the good fortune that saw him become a premiership player in his debut season.

The 20-year-old was a part of the Bulldogs' 2016 flag triumph just 10 months after being drafted, but since then ankle and shoulder issues have seen the midfielder spend long periods in the rehab group.

Those injuries saw Dunkley play just seven senior games this year, but they gave him perspective and drive to make his own luck in 2018.

"I've seen the best and worst of footy, so hopefully there's a bit more luck coming back my way," Dunkley told AFL.com.au.

"It was pretty traumatic doing my shoulder last year, even though I ended up getting back towards the end of the season.


"But I've come back refreshed, fit and healthy and really excited about what the future holds."
Dunkley used his time on the sidelines wisely, conditioning his developing body in the gym and working on his skills.

"I worked a lot with Rohan Smith on my kicking and skill execution this year, and that was something that took my mind off being injured.

"I sat down with Joel Corey and watched a fair bit of vision to learn more about the game.

"We're looking to improve every part of my game."

After a disappointing flag defence, Dunkley says the slate was clean at VU Whitten Oval, with strong competition for spots driving a resolve for the players to redeem themselves.

As a third-year player, he is eyeing more time in a midfield group that has ample inside ball winners including Marcus Bontempelli, Tom Liberatore, Mitch Wallis, Toby McLean and Lin Jong.

"I have spoken to the coaches about my goals, so hopefully I can play in the midfield a bit more and take a few marks when I go forward," Dunkley said.

"Since I've been at the club there's always been that competition for spots, and that was a big driving force in the premiership year.

"Competition amongst players drives the standards a lot."


Dunkley recently bore witness on his off-season adventures to English Premier League star Wayne Rooney's return to Manchester United in the England soccer star's second stint at Everton.

The atmosphere at Old Trafford that day sent shivers down Dunkley's spine.

"I went the day before the game and did a guided tour that showed me some pretty amazing things at such a proud club," Dunkley said.

"It was great to see how another sport goes about its business."

[kruder]

Great to see pretty much all of our young group that will be pushing for selection next year fit and healthy at the start of preseason.

[Eastdog]

Great news from that article BAD. Dunks was an emerging 1st year player in our premiership year. Great to hear the setbacks are behind him now. It really sounds like we are determined to put a disappointing 2017 behind us and look forward to an exciting 2018 ahead.

[jazzadogs]

I think what Mof means is that Schache keeping up with the mids in running drills is a good sign.

And Gia 😏

[merantau]

Dunkley had an excellent finals series and it will be great to have him cherry ripe in 2018. He is a versatile player. I am also looking forward to seeing a rejuvenated Libba back to his best. I am really looking forward to 2018.

[Eastdog]

Dunkley had an excellent finals series and it will be great to have him cherry ripe in 2018. He is a versatile player. I am also looking forward to seeing a rejuvenated Libba back to his best. I am really looking forward to 2018.

Libba and JJ will be keen to see both have great years. Libba wasn't quite all there this year and JJ did ok but not enough like in 2016. The rumours with JJ were around and I'm sure that was a factor in his performances. Glad all that stuff is behind him now and he can re focus back to what makes him such a quality player that we know he is - that great flare him provides off half back.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Photos can be deceiving but T Boyd looks in the best condition he's ever been in.

Trengove looks fit and Dunkley is developing quickly.

[dadsgirl16]

Bonti sporting new hair cut..has he not heard the Samson story

[bornadog]

Bonti sporting new hair cut..has he not heard the Samson story


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

[bornadog]

Trengove first day

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DOtnVSpUMAAnM6b.jpg

[bulldogtragic]

We need to give Bonts a huge contract ASAP. The poor bugger is getting the free hair cuts from the local TAFE hair dresser salon.

[bulldogtragic]

Trengove first day

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DOtnVSpUMAAnM6b.jpg

Young on Trengove. I wonder who was playing forward and defender?

[Webby]

We need to give Bonts a huge contract ASAP. The poor bugger is getting the free hair cuts from the local TAFE hair dresser salon.

Agree on the first bit. However I think that's the best haircut he's had for some time! Getting groomed for his Brownlow, I think!

[hujsh]

Yeah Bont looks good. Better than the headband.

[azabob]

Young on Trengove. I wonder who was playing forward and defender?

I think it looks more of a drill than match simulation.

[Twodogs]

Bonti sporting new hair cut..has he not heard the Samson story

Hehe. I have had very long hair for the past few years. I was prevailed upon to have it cut for various reasons and I was not happy about it. It was funny watching the story about the Bont last night when everyone turned and looked at me with raised eyebrows as if to say "it was good enough for the Bont..."

[bornadog]

All players back tomorrow for preseason. Apparently a closed session.

[Eastdog]

All players back tomorrow for preseason. Apparently a closed session.

Yep all back tomorrow ready to hit the ground running.

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DPDTbGiVwAAKd7i.jpg

[bornadog]

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

[bornadog]

Hayden Crozier

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DPDWYArV4AEsmFW.jpg

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DPDXtlDV4AAcV51.jpg

[bulldogtragic]

It's at moments like these I'm happy to be a member and not a player. Stuff that.

[Eastdog]

Really great to see Libba back at it there hopefully knuckling down hard for a big 2018.

[jeemak]

Check out the ball drops on Crozier and Libba. Excellent. Dahl's on the other hand......

[The Adelaide Connection]

Hayden Crozier

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DPDWYArV4AEsmFW.jpg

Holy heck, at first I thought this was Daniel.

P.S. I was at a Professional development session at Port Adelaide a few years ago and one of the coaches was showing us the training vision etc they use and talking about recruitment and he told a story of a kid that came through one of the development programs (can't remember if it was AIS, Port Adelaide's or whatever). Anyway, apparently he was an out and out gun but he did have some kicking efficiency issues. They asked him about the arm he threw up when he kicked and he was adament he wasn't doing it (an uncoscious habit that no one had ever called him up on through all of his junior years) and they had to show him vision. Apparently it would throw his alignment out and that was a major part of his kicking issues and they had to train him out of it (vastly improving his kicking).
Anyone a kicking expert that would know more about this? Not saying that Crozier does this all the time, but it instantly reminded me of the story and I can't really recall seeing any players do it live.

[GVGjr]

Crozier is a left foot kick isn't he? That picture is his kicking style for his opposite foot

[divvydan]

Yeah, he's a leftie.

[Dancin' Douggy]

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

wow Libba's lost some weight. Thought he was a tad paunchy last year. That is Libba isn't it?

[ledge]

wow Libba's lost some weight. Thought he was a tad paunchy last year. That is Libba isn't it?

His arse blew out last year bigtime.

[BornInDroopSt'54]

Check out the ball drops on Crozier and Libba. Excellent. Dahl's on the other hand......

My thoughts precisely, both Libba and Hayden have very careful and low guiding by hand onto the boot. The only way to do it, so easy and effective.

[Twodogs]

Yeah, he's a leftie.


Libba is a left foot kick like his dad isn't he?

[Mofra]

Libba is a left foot kick like his dad isn't he?
Yes, and I swear he's elite on his left. Beautiful left footer.

[Bulldog Joe]

Libba is a left foot kick like his dad isn't he?

Libba may be a leftie as Tony was, but Tommy is light years ahead with his kicking.

[Bulldog Revolution]

Libba may be a leftie as Tony was, but Tommy is light years ahead with his kicking.

Tom is a lovely kick, and stronger on his right, but it’s a different era than the part time of his dad

[Cyberdoggie]

wow Libba's lost some weight. Thought he was a tad paunchy last year. That is Libba isn't it?

Great to see him looking lean and mean.
Hopefully will see a vastly better Libba in 2018.

[jeemak]

Tom has an elite kick and with fitness needs to use it outside more. He’s best in competition inside, if can work a bit more outside he’s going to be all round elite.

[Twodogs]

It might be worth a few bucks on Libba winning Charlie this to year.

Have there been a father/Son Brownlow medal winning duo?

[Axe Man]

https://s2.postimg.org/k417sufg9/23905733_10155842347352487_6634319521124920678_n.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/yagyo2qb9/)

https://s2.postimg.org/nnn5imv0p/24058841_10155842347357487_342456413166977594_n.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/rk0hemg05/)

https://s2.postimg.org/6n499ypp5/24129930_10155842347347487_8337354602295449379_n.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/kgslz0iad/)

Some fair pipes on Naughton for a young bloke!

[bulldogtragic]

1. Richards looks to have a text book ball drop
2. Naughton is going to be huge
3. Porter needs a lot of sunscreen

[bornadog]

Straight into it, no mucking around

[Twodogs]

1. Richards looks to have a text book ball drop
2. Naughton is going to be huge
3. Porter needs a lot of sunscreen

It's a thing of beauty.

[Eastdog]

Straight into it, no mucking around

It is a great sign. Committing to the club and working hard.

[Eastdog]

Great to see him looking lean and mean.
Hopefully will see a vastly better Libba in 2018.

Yeah Libba had a dissapointing 17 but hoping we will redeem himself and come out firing in 18. We know what his capable of. Needs to get back to his best.

[LostDoggy]

Naughton's physique is ridiculous for a 17 year old. Must have attended the same Perth gym as Marcus Adams.

[Twodogs]

Naughton's physique is ridiculous for a 17 year old. Must have attended the same Perth gym as Marcus Adams.


There must be something in the water over there.

[bornadog]

Naughton's physique is ridiculous for a 17 year old. Must have attended the same Perth gym as Marcus Adams.

Over the years I have noticed teams like West Coast seem to have bulked up players. Are players in Perth building themselves up more physically for footy that other states?

[BornInDroopSt'54]

All the innocent young guns starting off in a much heathier culture, hopefully toxicity free, to learn about honest hard work and its rewards.

[mjp]

Over the years I have noticed teams like West Coast seem to have bulked up players. Are players in Perth building themselves up more physically for footy that other states?

Genetically gifted, that's all!

[bornadog]

Genetically gifted, that's all!

Ok, I believe you. :D

[The Doctor]

Who are the early contenders for the Shaun Higgins Medal for best pre-season performer?

[Axe Man]

Genetically gifted, that's all!

Some sort of Boys from Brazil thing going on over in the West?

[BornInDroopSt'54]

Who are the early contenders for the Shaun Higgins Medal for best pre-season performer?

That medal is a poisoned chalice with a big moz on it but I'll go Lucas Webb. He has shown great endeavour in improving his contested footy and his fitness in the last two seasons. He'll ramp it up this preseason and crack the main team.

[bornadog]

Hot work out there today

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DP2EasgV4AAKI4_.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DP2EashUQAA7tzp.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DP2EdS6V4AIQfUw.jpg

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DP2EdS7VAAYYHi_.jpg

[jeemak]

Bet you there will be a big story about EFC or Collingwood training in the heat today on the back page of tomorrow's HUN.

[bornadog]

Bet you there will be a big story about EFC or Collingwood training in the heat today on the back page of tomorrow's HUN.

It's been non stop stories on those clubs.

[bornadog]

Join us for our Christmas Open Training Session


http://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/WesternBulldogs/Hero/2017_HERO/2018Christmas-Training-ArticleHeader-ART.jpg

Western Bulldogs are extending an invitation to its annual Christmas Training Session


In the spirit of the festive season, the Western Bulldogs are extending an invitation to all Bulldog fans to its annual Christmas Training Session at Victoria University Whitten Oval.

The session will take place on Saturday 16 December, with gates open from 8:00am.

Make sure you don't miss this opportunity to meet the new draftees and see the 2018 team train for the final time before the break.

Also refer here (https://www.woof.net.au/forum/showthread.php?16527-Events-Thread&p=586069#post586069)for events on the day

[Axe Man]

Just wondering why we hear about every other clubs 2km time trial results but not ours? Do we not have one or are we just unnecessarily secretive? I would be interested to see who our top runners are.

[Webby]

Just wondering why we hear about every other clubs 2km time trial results but not ours? Do we not have one or are we just unnecessarily secretive? I would be interested to see who our top runners are.

It's funny. Pretty sure we were the only club not to submit to the AFL App's heat map running chart thing last season.
We are pretty coy, it would seem!

[Twodogs]

Meh! This time last year the press were all over us giving us wall to wall coverage in the dailys. Where did that get us?

[Axe Man]

Meh! This time last year the press were all over us giving us wall to wall coverage in the dailys. Where did that get us?

I'm not talking about press coverage - this stuff is posted on other club's websites.

[Twodogs]

I'm not talking about press coverage - this stuff is posted on other club's websites.

I was referring to BAD's post but I also agree with you. I can't think why we'd keep mum about the results of the 2k time trials.

[Hotdog60]

Or at least exaggerate them so the other teams burn themselves out early in the season trying to keep up.

[ledge]

Heard that Libba is fired up this year, from the mouth of Trengove.
Very popular person is Trengove.
We are on for next year.

[Eastdog]

Meh! This time last year the press were all over us giving us wall to wall coverage in the dailys. Where did that get us?

We are flying a little under the radar. Not necessarily a bad thing at all.

[LostDoggy]

We are flying a little under the radar. Not necessarily a bad thing at all.

Agreed, I'm more then happy for us to go about our business quietly and ninja though the pre-season.

[bornadog]

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

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DQaKVpnU8AMJZ0q.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DQaKVpaVoAAgI3u.jpg

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

[Eastdog]

Any idea what is going on with the Whitten Oval surface?

[bornadog]

Any idea what is going on with the Whitten Oval surface?

Just the summer top soil - no big deal, they do it every year.

[Eastdog]

Just the summer top soil - no big deal, they do it every year.

Cheers BAD.

Yeah a few woofers were wondering.

[Mantis]

Just the summer top soil - no big deal, they do it every year.

As someone who drives past the ground quite regularly I’ve never seen the surface in such condition at this time of the year.

It’s less than satisfactory that our players are training on this.

[bornadog]

Cheers BAD.

Yeah a few woofers were wondering.

refer around post #23 in this thread

[jeemak]

With the rain we've had and a few hot and sunny days next week, we won't have to wait long for the couch grass to go completely nuts and generate cover.

A bit of loose top soil is OK providing the next layer is firm enough, a bit like a wet ground. It's when the first layer is loose supported by really soft ground that you need to worry.

If it wasn't safe players wouldn't be training on it.

[Twodogs]

As someone who drives past the ground quite regularly I’ve never seen the surface in such condition at this time of the year.

It’s less than satisfactory that our players are training on this.


I agree. It hasn't looked this bad since the cricket club moved.

[Remi Moses]

The ground looks worse than it actually is . That grass is softand unlike Etihad which looks great, but is basically concrete

[BornInDroopSt'54]

As someone who drives past the ground quite regularly I’ve never seen the surface in such condition at this time of the year.

It’s less than satisfactory that our players are training on this.
Yeah nah. We golfers at great golf courses do it seasonally. All good grounds have it done. It poses no injury concerns and is great to play footy on, even bounces, even surface. It is topdressed with sand which the grass loves to grow through and eliminates any thatch or dead grass that may inhibit grass growth.

[Rocket Science]

Libba has cheekbones again.

This bodes well.

[comrade]

Libba has cheekbones again.

This bodes well.

Yep, looking shredded compared to the post 2016 version. I'm pumped.

On a side note, I was listening to an audio book and they were discussing the Bill Walsh-SF 49ers dynasty in the NFL. He took them from the worst team in the league to Superbowl Champs within 3 years (1981) and was hailed a genius. The team sank like a stone in 1982, finishing near the bottom of the conference and not getting close to the playoffs. Walsh has said that winning so early made his players too ego-driven and they believed they were special and above the little things that helped them win in the first place.

He reinforced the standards, moved some players on etc and by 1984 they won again.

Listening to it, it sounded exactly like our own trajectory from 2014 onwards. Here's hoping we can get back to the top.

[choconmientay]

On a side note, I was listening to an audio book and they were discussing the Bill Walsh-SF 49ers dynasty in the NFL. ...


You got me excited already with this story. Is this available online or is there a link you could share?

[comrade]

You got me excited already with this story. Is this available online or is there a link you could share?

The audiobook is Ego Is The Enemy by Ryan Holiday.

Bill Walsh himself wrote a very good book called The Score Looks After Itself where he goes in depth on his leadership philosophy.

Both are well worth checking out if you enjoy sports and leadership types of books.

[kruder]

Was the Greene floating across the screen in the Saturday slow mo?

[Twodogs]

Every time I see the name Bill Walsh I think Cosmic Psychos, but it's obviously not the Bill Walsh that played drums in Cosmic Psychos you guys are talking about. It must be some other random Bill Walsh

[The Adelaide Connection]

Has anyone that has been along to any recent sessions been able to make any early observations (aside the usual "everyone is flying" style talk).

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

I believe the term is "training the house down"

[Throughandthrough]

And player Xx is gearing up to spend more time on the ball............

[Throughandthrough]

Libba has cheekbones again.

This bodes well.

Maybe getting rid of Stringer is the gift that keeps on giving

[stefoid]

Was the Greene floating across the screen in the Saturday slow mo?

shache I think

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DQuab4qV4AEPAby.jpg

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DQuab4nVwAACxlq.jpg

[jeemak]

Everyone looks lean.

[bornadog]

Everyone looks lean.

Cordy starting to bulk up

[bornadog]

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

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Everyone looks lean.

Everyone does look lean. But i don't know if its just the typical 'summer' photos or if everyone was fat last year or if everyone really is leaner

[Twodogs]

Those arms on Zaine Cordy are gonna do some damage.

[Go_Dogs]

Everyone does look lean. But i don't know if its just the typical 'summer' photos or if everyone was fat last year or if everyone really is leaner

Footballers are getting skinnier and skinner, no surprise to see us come back like this - hopefully bodes well for increased running and repeat efforts for our players.

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DQ-zrhVVoAEIF9a.jpg

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Anyone seen a pic floating around of Libba at training? It’s on FB but I always seem to have trouble uploading pics on here. If it’s anything to go by we’re in for a good year. He looks ripped and raring to go

[choconmientay]

Libba at today's training:

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4546/27305174259_3abeab780c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HASa1x)XMAS_WB_Training-57 (https://flic.kr/p/HASa1x) by ChoCon MienTay (https://www.flickr.com/photos/111272802@N04/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4597/24221596487_a7c8bf9073_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CUo1Lx)XMAS_WB_Training-159 (https://flic.kr/p/CUo1Lx) by ChoCon MienTay (https://www.flickr.com/photos/111272802@N04/), on Flickr

[Eastdog]

Anyone seen a pic floating around of Libba at training? It’s on FB but I always seem to have trouble uploading pics on here. If it’s anything to go by we’re in for a good year. He looks ripped and raring to go

This website will help you out for posting photos on forums.

https://postimages.org

[bulldogsthru&thru]

https://postimg.org/image/ibuerzw8l/

[bornadog]

Bevo getting into the action

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRIUEHZUQAErxe6.jpg

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRITCkMU8AA8QT9.jpg

Tatoo says

“Motel, Money, Murder Madness”.. from L.A. Women (The Doors)

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

I truly hope that the condition guys like Libba and Smith have presented to preseason is an indicator we are primed to right some wrongs in 2018.

[Hotdog60]

Who's the dude behind Libba??
Is he an academy player or are we looking at an overseas rookie.

[GVGjr]

Who's the dude behind Libba??
Is he an academy player or are we looking at an overseas rookie.

Buku Khamis, he is a next generation academy player. He plays for the Western Jets and if you search there as some nice interviews with him. He hails from South Sudan and was a refugee.

[comrade]

Bevo getting into the action

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRIUEHZUQAErxe6.jpg

Taking on the only bloke he's bigger than. Smart.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRITCkMU8AA8QT9.jpg

Tatoo says

“Motel, Money, Murder Madness”.. from L.A. Women (The Doors)

That’s the photo. Never seen Libba looking that good

[Twodogs]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRITCkMU8AA8QT9.jpg

Tatoo says

“Motel, Money, Murder Madness”.. from L.A. Women (The Doors)


Ohhh. Libba has discovered the Doors! That's so cute.

Actually I shouldn't be commenting. I'm probably the only other person in this conversation that had his favourite band tattooed on him as well. I have a Black Flag on my leg.

[Hotdog60]

Buku Khamis, he is a next generation academy player. He plays for the Western Jets and if you search there as some nice interviews with him. He hails from South Sudan and was a refugee.

Thanks GVGjr,
I'll look him up. I've noticed his name pop up on here in some posts so now I can see what he looks like. The Sudanese do alright in the Gym will he be like Daw or is smaller build.

[bulldogtragic]

Thanks GVGjr,
I'll look him up. I've noticed his name pop up on here in some posts so now I can see what he looks like. The Sudanese do alright in the Gym will he be like Daw or is smaller build.

If you go to the father/son thread, there's a few links to articles and an SBS piece on him.

[Hotdog60]

If you go to the father/son thread, there's a few links to articles no an SBS piece on him.

Thanks BT

[GVGjr]

Thanks GVGjr,
I'll look him up. I've noticed his name pop up on here in some posts so now I can see what he looks like. The Sudanese do alright in the Gym will he be like Daw or is smaller build.

I think he is 188cm so it will be interesting to see if he is still growing. Seems to be more of a midfielder than potential KPP but if he is still growing you never know

[Webby]

Dropped into training yesterday. They did look very sharp. Really good movement of the footy in drills. A few of the guys being given some running duties. Boyd has fined down from where he was at in the VFL three months ago. Without getting too excited, my mate and I began discussing Libba's Brownlow odds..

Feeling pretty good....

Then the goal kicking drills started. If you could call them that.. They were bloody awful!
It is a massively neglected part of our game. The amount of inconsistency in individual players' techniques, gaits, head position, balance, ball drop, routine etc.

One thing I'll give rugby league - their goal kickers have improved markedly over the past 30 years. That's backed by conversion rate figures. AFL has regressed. And we're the worst in the comp!

[Hotdog60]

What's Lindsay doing now days, we need him back asap.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UV6A2CzSKmA

[ledge]

What's Lindsay doing now days, we need him back asap.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UV6A2CzSKmA

How about we just get Tory Dickson, he is at training anyway.

[Twodogs]

What's Lindsay doing now days, we need him back asap.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UV6A2CzSKmA



I've banged on and banged on about this for years but look at Lindsey's technique. It's perfect, upright, head over the ball, he is going to send the ball where he wants it to go. Gilbert made the ball talk not because he is naturally gifted but because he does it properly and he has respect for the ball.

[Webby]

One of the issues with set shot goal kicking is that everyone thinks techniques need to be perfect. This is not the case. Often, players are encouraged to become "over correct" and end up becoming worse.

They become robotic. Unnatural. Almost like a bunch of dressage horses. Ankles too close together - meaning they become top heavy and unbalanced. Hips too square, too much going on in the mind etc etc.

In rugby league in the 1980's, there was a trend towards consistent, homogenous, robotic routines. It didn't work. Players have a natural gait. A bit like batsmen. Look at Steve Smith. It's an ugly, ungainly technique - but it works.

Look at Buddy. His technique is 'horribly wrong' like Steve Smith's or Bubba Watson's.. But it works. It's instinct.

I don't want to see players achieving wonderfully classical actions. I just want to see consistency of method. Narrowed down variables combined with natural instinct. Dickson has it and the results are obvious.

As I said earlier, our field kicking was elite on Saturday. Players are instinctive. The ball drops are rarely perfect, but players instinctively adjust their foot position, trajectory, or weighting of their kicks to compensate. However, with goal kicking, everyone seems to simply drop and blast. There isn't that same instinct to adjust to a non-prefect drop, or ball angle.

It's either perfect, or it's awful. This is the element that can be changed - but there's a missing link in AFL footy which I think is embarrassing.

[ledge]

I think it's a lot to do with learning to dart the ball with field kicking but going back to floating it naturally through goals.
As we all know darting a football quickly through the air is a lot harder than just floating a kick, players don't practice floating it anymore.
Suckling, buddy and many others have an awkward style but it works. I think it's about letting the player kick what's natural to them, maybe it's coaches trying to change the natural that's the problem, let's face it kids got into AFL clubs doing what's natural, the moment they go to clubs they are taught other ways that isn't natural to them.

[Greystache]

Then the goal kicking drills started. If you could call them that.. They were bloody awful!
It is a massively neglected part of our game. The amount of inconsistency in individual players' techniques, gaits, head position, balance, ball drop, routine etc.

One thing I'll give rugby league - their goal kickers have improved markedly over the past 30 years. That's backed by conversion rate figures. AFL has regressed. And we're the worst in the comp!

I dropped in for a bit too. The other thing that stood out was even during the general play drills they'd move the ball down the ground cutting different angles with their kicks before eventually a player would receive the ball 50m or so out and run in to have a shot at goal, and that player routinely missed, yet no one seemed to even care.

It didn't look like anyone was tracking how many were being kicked and how many were missing. I saw 4 in a row miss from 20-30m out and no one said a word. It's as if the shot at goal was the meaningless formality and the end of the drill.

It defies belief that we just don't care about such a critical part of the game, a part that costs wins regularly, yet we obsess over making fractional gains in tiny 1% areas. It's beyond madness. You have to think the coaches are so absorbed in their bubble of sexy AFL trends that they can't see fundamentals are hopelessly lacking.

[Ozza]

I think he is 188cm so it will be interesting to see if he is still growing. Seems to be more of a midfielder than potential KPP but if he is still growing you never know

Buku had been playing forward for Jets, but moved to a half back/intercept defender role during last season - and was more than handy at it. Would be good if he grew another 5-6cms....but I think his athleticism bridges the height gap a fair bit. Kicks the footy well.

Both Buku, and Rhylee West have been training a bit with the main group. Both NGA players for us - so a really good initiative to have them spend time amongst the big boys.

[BornInDroopSt'54]

Let's bring back the place kick for goals. Surely there is no man on the mark for them.
It's not as if they are like an underarm bowl. They didn't die of stigma.

[GVGjr]

I dropped in for a bit too. The other thing that stood out was even during the general play drills they'd move the ball down the ground cutting different angles with their kicks before eventually a player would receive the ball 50m or so out and run in to have a shot at goal, and that player routinely missed, yet no one seemed to even care.

It didn't look like anyone was tracking how many were being kicked and how many were missing. I saw 4 in a row miss from 20-30m out and no one said a word. It's as if the shot at goal was the meaningless formality and the end of the drill.

It defies belief that we just don't care about such a critical part of the game, a part that costs wins regularly, yet we obsess over making fractional gains in tiny 1% areas. It's beyond madness. You have to think the coaches are so absorbed in their bubble of sexy AFL trends that they can't see fundamentals are hopelessly lacking.

I'm glad you are seeing what I have been as well. For a professional sport we are very accepting of poor training practices.

[boydogs]

Both Buku, and Rhylee West have been training a bit with the main group. Both NGA players for us - so a really good initiative to have them spend time amongst the big boys.

West is Father/Son not NGA

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRUN-6jUIAAQgXf.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRUOb9XU8AAOcDj.jpg

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

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRUWjaqU8AANnVd.jpg

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

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRT7PccUEAApJsX.jpg

[bornadog]

Western Bulldogs training camp crucial for team bonding says Lachie Hunter
(http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/western-bulldogs/western-bulldogs-training-camp-crucial-for-team-bonding-says-lachie-hunter/news-story/a7a2fae05fa085bf0cc831c644f89f8f)

THE Surf Coast turned Dog beach on Monday as the Western Bulldogs descended on Torquay.

The pre-Christmas training expedition started out in less gruelling fashion than in recent years, according to midfielder Lachie Hunter, with a morning session at Whitten Oval before hitting the dunes.

But he knows better than to speak too soon, all too aware that coach Luke Beveridge could have plenty more up his sleeve in coming days.
“It is only day one. I’m sure there’s a fair bit more in store over the next couple of days which will make it as bad as they normally are,” Hunter said.

http://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/35c51e3062588966a7b9a4edf1917417?width=316
Mitch Wallis jumps over Luke Dahlhaus. Picture: Michael Kleinhttp://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/2c9bb327182bba8e22ab7ae3f18eaa90?width=316
Luke Dahlhaus jumps over Mitch Wallis. Picture: Michael Klein

“We pretty much just turn up and find out (what we’re going to be doing), I think that’s part of the mental side of it. They keep the boys guessing the whole time and put a bit of fear in to add to it all.

“The energy is always up at the start of a camp and the boys have attacked it really well.”
The team engaged in boxing and running drills on the sand in the 33C heat, with Hunter backing the value of such trips.
“The main thing you get out of it is the team-building side of things,” he said.

“Bevo has been massive on that. Aside from the physical stuff, which can be pretty gruelling.”
Hunter, 23, said draftees Josh Schache, Jackson Trengove and Hayden Crozier have slotted in seamlessly.
“All three have pretty much been in full training the whole time and have been looking good in our match play and game simulation,” he said.

“It’s exciting what they’ll bring this year.”

http://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/f90a9dd37d7c8a99f50a21a208ff578b?width=650
Lachie Hunter leads his group back up the beach. Picture: Michael Kleinhttp://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/7d1e46c1915dc76a75300c92f8370822?width=650
Western Bulldogs players hit the surf in Torquay. Picture: Michael Kleinhttp://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/f91b8828ba10fa143d3d589bb7f8211a?width=650
Western Bulldogs players in a boxing session in Torquay. Picture: Michael Kleinhttp://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/914e6e00063cff76ecebb3325f58ad41?width=650
Western Bulldogs players take part in a tug of war. Picture: Michael Kleinhttp://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/b06a5d5384ba9a037e64ef37b940c12f?width=650
Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge. Picture: Michael Kleinhttp://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/c9314653bae90ff6081225617ae8261d?width=650
Western Bulldogs players run down the beach in Torquay. Picture: Michael Kleinhttp://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/6e47e4b4286331b2ac9114b4dcb197ef?width=316
Jason Johannisen lifts a medicine ball. Picture: Michael Kleinhttp://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/1bf27b322e1956cd70ad2febbbb26b17?width=316

[ledge]

I'm not sure I like seeing Easton Woods intestines.
Good to see the boys not shirking the issue though.

[comrade]

That would be the leanest Tom Boyd has ever been.

[bornadog]

That would be the leanest Tom Boyd has ever been.

The boys look in great shape.

[Murphy'sLore]

The boys look... in great shape.

Phew! Time for a Bex and a lie down :)

[Ozza]

West is Father/Son not NGA

Yeah, but NGA and Father Son are 'managed' the same pre-getting drafted.

[Axe Man]

At least our players didn't call the AFLPA and have the camp cancelled!

[hujsh]

At least our players didn't call the AFLPA and have the camp cancelled!
Did another club do this?

[Ozza]

Did another club do this?

Yep. Melbourne.

[Axe Man]

Did another club do this?

Danny Frawley says Melbourne is a laughing stock after cancelling its pre-season camp (http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/melbourne/danny-frawley-says-melbourne-is-a-laughing-stock-after-cancelling-its-preseason-camp/news-story/9c2c9a64be02a02da6ed47a3f91e85fc)

FORMER Richmond coach Danny Frawley believes Melbourne Football Club is the laughing stock of the AFL after cancelling its commando-style pre-season camp.

The Demons made the decision to cancel the camp last week in light of player safety concerns.

Frawley said he believes up to 14 players from the club contacted the AFL Players’ Association in an effort to get the camp called off.

“If I am Simon Goodwin, I’m driving to work today and you know what, I’ve got a really shitty feeling in my gut,” he said on SEN radio.

“I just can’t work it out because we (coaches and the players) are in it together but there are 14 of my boys that have gone behind my back.”

The Demons held a similar camp last pre-season which put players through sleep deprivation, a gruelling 20km beach trek before a series of punishing physical and mental exercises.

During the training regime, Dom Tyson injured his knee while Christian Salem suffered a concussion after dropping a brick on his head.

Following the injuries, Melbourne had bolstered safety measures for this pre-season’s camp.

“I think Simon needs to get the playing group in and say, ‘Guys the communication lines are open. Have I not been honest with you guys? Have I not been upfront?’

“The Melbourne Football Club at the moment, it is a bit of a laughing stock,” Frawley said.

“What do we have a leadership group for? Let’s forget our leadership group now. You guys, if you’ve got an issue, ring the AFLPA and I’ll just coach.”

Melbourne is coming off a horror finish to the 2017 season, missing out on finals by .5 per cent after a shock Round 23 loss to Collingwood.

The club did appear to have some strong momentum heading into the New Year after securing gun defender Jake Lever in a trade with Adelaide.

However, Frawley believes there is now a disconnect between the players and coaches.

“I have spoken to a couple of people who are involved with players at the club,” he said.

“They have said, ‘God I hope my son wasn’t one of the ones (who contacted the AFLPA).’

“I’m very confident that there is a real flatness about the coaching staff towards the players at the moment heading into Christmas.

“Undermining is probably a harsh word but when you look at it, they (the players) actually have. They have gone to a different authority out the Melbourne Football Club. To me, Goody has been let down, he really has.”

Other sporting teams, including Melbourne Storm, have run the similar style training camps.

[choconmientay]

Some ammunition for 2018 sledging when team are playing Melbourne ;)

[Twodogs]

Danny Frawley says Melbourne is a laughing stock after cancelling its pre-season camp (http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/melbourne/danny-frawley-says-melbourne-is-a-laughing-stock-after-cancelling-its-preseason-camp/news-story/9c2c9a64be02a02da6ed47a3f91e85fc)

FORMER Richmond coach Danny Frawley believes Melbourne Football Club is the laughing stock of the AFL after cancelling its commando-style pre-season camp.

The Demons made the decision to cancel the camp last week in light of player safety concerns.

Frawley said he believes up to 14 players from the club contacted the AFL Players’ Association in an effort to get the camp called off.

“If I am Simon Goodwin, I’m driving to work today and you know what, I’ve got a really shitty feeling in my gut,” he said on SEN radio.

“I just can’t work it out because we (coaches and the players) are in it together but there are 14 of my boys that have gone behind my back.”

The Demons held a similar camp last pre-season which put players through sleep deprivation, a gruelling 20km beach trek before a series of punishing physical and mental exercises.

During the training regime, Dom Tyson injured his knee while Christian Salem suffered a concussion after dropping a brick on his head.

Following the injuries, Melbourne had bolstered safety measures for this pre-season’s camp.

“I think Simon needs to get the playing group in and say, ‘Guys the communication lines are open. Have I not been honest with you guys? Have I not been upfront?’

“The Melbourne Football Club at the moment, it is a bit of a laughing stock,” Frawley said.

“What do we have a leadership group for? Let’s forget our leadership group now. You guys, if you’ve got an issue, ring the AFLPA and I’ll just coach.”

Melbourne is coming off a horror finish to the 2017 season, missing out on finals by .5 per cent after a shock Round 23 loss to Collingwood.

The club did appear to have some strong momentum heading into the New Year after securing gun defender Jake Lever in a trade with Adelaide.

However, Frawley believes there is now a disconnect between the players and coaches.

“I have spoken to a couple of people who are involved with players at the club,” he said.

“They have said, ‘God I hope my son wasn’t one of the ones (who contacted the AFLPA).’

“I’m very confident that there is a real flatness about the coaching staff towards the players at the moment heading into Christmas.

“Undermining is probably a harsh word but when you look at it, they (the players) actually have. They have gone to a different authority out the Melbourne Football Club. To me, Goody has been let down, he really has.”

Other sporting teams, including Melbourne Storm, have run the similar style training camps.


Wow. Just wow. That almost makes Goodwin's position untenable surely? If players are going behind his back and questioning his planning?

I couldn't keep going in those circumstances. I'm thinking "at least 14 of these blokes don't take me seriously"

[G-Mo77]

Look it'll probably blow over pretty quick but I'd be furious if Bulldogs players did this.

[Twodogs]

Look it'll probably blow over pretty quick but I'd be furious if Bulldogs players did this.


I agree. As serious as this is they have to sort of forget it and move on with the season. They just haven't got the time to get distracted by it.

They are a seriously soft and indulged playing group though.

[hujsh]

Not a great look but seems like a real balls up last year as well

[Murphy'sLore]

Can imagine Crossy taking a dim view of this.

[bulldogtragic]

I remember in the early 90's, under Wheeler I think, the playing group had to parachute into Port Philip Bay. Some of the players didn't want to, but they did as a group, together. With and for each other.

Maybe Melbourne can do theirs now at Piss Weak World.

[Twodogs]

I remember in the early 90's, under Wheeler I think, the playing group had to parachute into Port Philip Bay. Some of the players didn't want to, but they did as a group, together. With and for each other.

Maybe Melbourne can do there's now at Piss Weak World.


Doug Hawkins didn't want to do it. He didn't want to throw himself out of a moving plane. But he was the captain so even though it was the last thing he wanted to do he did it.

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRYrQrBU8AAsHbv.jpg:large

[bornadog]

Doggies showing Melbourne how much of a Whimp they are.

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

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRYLMmRU8AAY-9g.jpg

Anyone want to take him on

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

[Axe Man]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRYrQrBU8AAsHbv.jpg:large

For anyone wondering who the little bloke on the end is (like I was), it's professional cyclist Simon Clarke.

[Dry Rot]

I agree. As serious as this is they have to sort of forget it and move on with the season. They just haven't got the time to get distracted by it.

They are a seriously soft and indulged playing group though.

It takes an amazing effort to truly instil a pea hearted culture into a club.

Well done, Dees.

[Dry Rot]

Christian Salem suffered a concussion after dropping a brick on his head.



That's ****ing hilarious.

What a competent group of players.

I loathe the Demons. I'm not sure why, but it might go back to that last game of 2005.

[GVGjr]

That's ****ing hilarious.

What a competent group of players.

I loathe the Demons. I'm not sure why, but it might go back to that last game of 2005.

If players genuinely feel unsafe they the should not suffer in silence and should seek out the leadership group to get some perspective however to go behind the coaches back without talking to him is a sign things aren't harmonious in with the playing group, the leadership group and coaching team.

They are as talented as any team in the competition but something isn't right.

[Go_Dogs]

Was thinking about Melbourne reading Hunter's comments - pretty sure he gave them a whack.

[Hotdog60]

Unless we are not getting the full story, one would have thought it would have been raised with the leadership group.
In turn they present the concerns to the coaching staff.
But maybe they did and got told to stuck it up and then took it further.
Still going to the AFLPA is a bad look that they couldn't resolve this behind closed doors.
The club could easily had modified the program if there was a serious safety issue and still hold the camp.

[bornadog]

They are as talented as any team in the competition but something isn't right.

I agree, there are some pretty good players in that team. Still don't know how they missed finals last year.

[bornadog]

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

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRdkzChU8AEkWDD.jpg

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRdl4DdV4AA4FdD.jpg

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DRdjIf5VoAA_MP5.jpg

[Dry Rot]

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

Who is that?

[bornadog]

Who is that?

Adams ?

[Axe Man]

Who is that?

The specimen.

[westdog54]

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

Dear God those arms are enormous.

[LostDoggy]

What about that muscle at the back of his right arm, behind the bicept. It's really unusual to see that so pronounced. Not often you can literally use the term muscles on his muscles. Jeez I hope his body gives him a good run at it this year.

[comrade]

What about that muscle at the back of his right arm, behind the bicept. It's really unusual to see that so pronounced. Not often you can literally use the term muscles on his muscles. Jeez I hope his body gives him a good run at it this year.

That's a damn big tricep.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Adams can seriously play too. Good mark, very quick and agile for his size and his reading of the play has improved a fair bit.

Simply needs a good run at it. Thought he was excellent again prior to injury in 2017.

He could be a big key to getting back up the ladder IMO.

[Rocket Science]

http://i68.tinypic.com/2myvnko.png

Captions please.

[Twodogs]

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


It looks like he is riding a toy bike.

[Axe Man]

It looks like he is riding a toy bike.

Happy Gravy Day!

[Twodogs]

Happy Gravy Day!


:cool:

[Eastdog]

Really liking what I'm hearing this pre season. We seem committed to really having a solid 2018.

[MrMahatma]

Really liking what I'm hearing this pre season. We seem committed to really having a solid 2018.

Few best preseasons ever. Handful of guys taking it to the next level. And a couple looking like early Brownlow chances.

[Dancin' Douggy]

Few best preseasons ever. Handful of guys taking it to the next level. And a couple looking like early Brownlow chances.

some are having their first proper run at it, and are tearing up the track I believe

[Eastdog]

Adams can seriously play too. Good mark, very quick and agile for his size and his reading of the play has improved a fair bit.

Simply needs a good run at it. Thought he was excellent again prior to injury in 2017.

He could be a big key to getting back up the ladder IMO.

Yep for sure. He was very good down back. Will be a very important part of our defence in coming years.

[Smads57]

Does anyone know if pre-season training has recommenced post the Xmas/New Year break. Seems to be awfully quiet at present on the Bulldog website.....

[Eastdog]

Does anyone know if pre-season training has recommenced post the Xmas/New Year break. Seems to be awfully quiet at present on the Bulldog website.....

Good question Smads. This thread hasn't been active since pre Christmas.

[Axe Man]

Does anyone know if pre-season training has recommenced post the Xmas/New Year break. Seems to be awfully quiet at present on the Bulldog website.....

Back yesterday according to this:

Link (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-12-27/preseason-update-wheres-your-club-at)

Pre-season so far: After getting back into the swing of things on November 9 after missing the finals, the Dogs spent the week leading into their Christmas break together in Torquay on a three-day training camp for a bit of pre-festive season bonding for the second year running. They'll again head north a few weeks after they reconvene on Monday, January 8 for another Sunshine Coast camp in Mooloolaba. Rhylee West, son of 324-game midfielder Scott West, has also been training with the club ahead of his draft year where he'll be eligible for father-son selection.

Time trial champ: The Dogs have refrained from official measured time trials but have put in plenty of endurance based sessions, where the likes of Bailey Dale, Toby McLean, Mitch Wallis, Lachie Hunter and Clay Smith have been performing.

Training return: January 8

Community camp: The Dogs are off to the central Victorian town of Ballarat, where they'll host two home and away matches in 2018, and will also send a contingent to the south-western town of Hamilton. The Ballarat visits will take place on March 1-2, and the Hamilton ones on March 2-3.

AFLX fixture: Saturday, February 17, Allianz Stadium: Sydney, Greater Western Sydney, the Brisbane Lions, Gold Coast, Richmond

JLT fixture: v Hawthorn, Mars Stadium, Ballarat, Saturday, March 3, 2.05pm AEDT; v Collingwood, Ted Summerton Reserve, Moe, Saturday, March 10, 1.05pm AEDT

Round one: v Greater Western Sydney, UNSW Canberra Oval, Sunday, March 25, 1.10pm AEDT

Last time: Round 21, 2017, Etihad Stadium, Western Bulldogs 7.15 (57) lost to Greater Western Sydney 16.9 (105)

[Eastdog]

Cheers Axe Man.

[Axe Man]

This answers my question I had a while back about why we don't publish time trial results like most (if not all) other clubs - it seems we don't do them.


Time trial champ: The Dogs have refrained from official measured time trials but have put in plenty of endurance based sessions, where the likes of Bailey Dale, Toby McLean, Mitch Wallis, Lachie Hunter and Clay Smith have been performing.

Interesting coaching method. I would have thought the natural competitiveness of players would help drive them to improve their times and beat their mates, thus improving their fitness levels.

[hujsh]

This answers my question I had a while back about why we don't publish time trial results like most (if not all) other clubs - it seems we don't do them.



Interesting coaching method. I would have thought the natural competitiveness of players would help drive them to improve their times and beat their mates, thus improving their fitness levels.

Might be doing something a bit different than the typical xkm run that still covers that off.

[Hotdog60]

Maybe we don't care about how quick you are but more about going the distance. :)

[Rocket Science]

JJ and Biggsy back in respectively familiar saddles as of the last 24 hours ...

http://i64.tinypic.com/2en3lt1.png

http://i66.tinypic.com/2lsws9w.png

[Mofra]

Might be doing something a bit different than the typical xkm run that still covers that off.
The AFL running programs are fairly short and intense.

Tory Dickson mentioned one of his in an interview last year that went for something like 13 minutes total - about 10 minutes of that was at 95% pace or higher. It's about repeat efforts, steady state running isn't the best way to improve results on the field.

In the early 2000s the Swans had a running session that went 150m, 250m, 350m, 450m, 550m, 650m, 750m X 3, then pyramid down again. Rest was 2x the time it took to complete each leg, I tried it and was vomiting before I even got to the first 750m.

[Eastdog]

Any news from training this week up on the Sunshine Coast?

[Axe Man]

Any news from training this week up on the Sunshine Coast?

Don't think they have been up to Queensland yet. There are photos of training at Whitten Oval this morning on Facebook.

[Eastdog]

Don't think they have been up to Queensland yet. There are photos of training at Whitten Oval this morning on Facebook.

Ok yeah I think they will be going up there very soon but just must have resumed regular training at the Whitten Oval starting last week.

[bornadog]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3OYnIAC6Q0

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTo5mbVV4AAeqsA.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTo5mbXU0AAfWBv.jpg

[bornadog]

From Monday

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTi3AuGU0AEpe2h.jpg

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTi3S7KUQAAezXX.jpg

[bornadog]

Looking Good for 2018

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTi3eJdVAAAVxOf.jpg

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTo7MAvU0AAViFt.jpg

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTo9YHXVAAAajlm.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTo9YHWU0AABLw4.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTo9YHUVoAAeMi9.jpg