Training Resumes Mon 4 Jan

[The Coon Dog]

On Monday at 9am the players have a time trial at Princes Park, they then return to the Whitten Oval for a skills session.

[LostDoggy]

Hmm is it open? Might be a nice day to go down..

[The Coon Dog]

Hmm is it open? Might be a nice day to go down..

It's always open, no longer a building site.

[Mantis]

It will be interesting to see how the players returned after their break.

Hopefully someone like Josh Hill presented himself in good shape and did some extra training to make up a little of the ground he lost pre-xmas.

[Mitcha]

Had a quick look this morning, everyone looks in great nick, Mitch Hahn is massive up top and Callan Ward is also seriously big. Rehab group was Tiller, Cordy, Reid and Ward while Will arrived later and did very little while Christian Howard is still 2 months away from joining the group. The main group did some end to end drills and looked quite slick although big Baz didn't look 100% matched up on Briza.

[comrade]

Had a quick look this morning, everyone looks in great nick, Mitch Hahn is massive up top and Callan Ward is also seriously big. Rehab group was Tiller, Cordy, Reid and Ward while Will arrived later and did very little while Christian Howard is still 2 months away from joining the group. The main group did some end to end drills and looked quite slick although big Baz didn't look 100% matched up on Briza.

Cooney and Aker out there?

[Mitcha]

Yep, both there, Aker especially looked good during the end to end stuff.

[The Coon Dog]

A bit of feedback about training.

Most of the players ran a 3.2km time trial.

1st - 10.40 - Matthew Boyd
2nd - 10.41- Tom Williams
3rd - 10.43 - Daniel Giansiracusa

12 players ran their personal best times today (including Gia).

A group consisting of Daniel Cross (10.50), Shaun Higgins, Robert Murphy & Dale Morris didn't go flat out, even though Crossy only ran 20 secs below his PB.

Daniel Cross & Robert Murphy are running well, 2-3 weeks ahead of schedule.

The shoulder op guys of Easton Wood, Liam Picken, Jarod Harbrow & Jordan Roughead are coming along really well.

Steve Tiller & Sam Reid who both had groin ops began running today & did a combination or running & walking.

Aker had an ankle op prior to X'mas but only missed a week, he's running OK now.

Dylan Addison is recovering well from a knee operation & is now back in full training. He ran a PB today.

Ayce Cordy is still growing into his body & has a sore calf.

Andrejs Everitt has really knuckled down, is training extremely well, understands why he wasn't getting games last season & acknowledged that he was at fault, no one else.

Will Minson is still having trouble with the toe he broke last year & has just started running.

Calla Ward's recovery from an injured ankle has been a little slower than expected.

Shaun Higgins moved really well in the footy drill.

Josh Hill has been doing extra work & it's paying dividends, another to run a PB. The penny has dropped.

Brennan Stack has been training well & again, another who ran a PB today.

Christian Howard has had a similar hip operation to what Brian Lake had & they're taking the same time frame with him, keeping him off it for another 4-6 weeks.

For those interested the player will be training on Monday, Wednesday & Friday mornings at the Whitten Oval from about 10am.

Tuesday & Thursday sessions are cross training ones so that includes boxing, riding & hill running.

There is also plenty of running on Saturday mornings at the club (other than 16 Jan where it's at Glen Waverley as part of the East meets West day).




A number of players were kept away from the hard surface & did their running on the oval including Barry Hall, Jason Akermanis, Nathan Eagleton, Adam Cooney & Brad Johnson.

[Sedat]

Terrific updates TCD and Mitcha, much appreciated. Tom Williams seems to have had an excellent pre-season - Tom certainly deserves an uninterrupted run at it. A fit and firing Tom Williams at CHB will allow our defensive structure to be more than adequately equipped for any opposition forward set-up.

[chef]

Thanks TCD:).

[Greystache]

[QUOTE=The Coon Dog;132193]
Andrejs Everitt has really knuckled down, is training extremely well, understands why he wasn't getting games last season & acknowledged that he was at fault, no one else.QUOTE]

This is really pleasing to hear.

Would really like to see him play the mobile CHF role this year.

[Mantis]

Thanks for the updates, much appreciated.

Great to hear Stack, Hill, Addison & Everitt all working hard on the track. One would think that Eade would be very happy with Everitt & Hill in particular as they probably haven't got the best out of themselves on the track over previous seasons and seemed to have turned the corner. Hopefully both will be in for strong seasons.

[The Adelaide Connection]

Brilliant stuff TCD and Mitcha. I love how Crossy was "taking it easy" and was still only 10 seconds off the best time, the man is a freak!

[Remi Moses]

great report much appreciated

[mighty_west]

Thanks for the updates TCD & Mitcha.

[always right]

I love this time of year when the reports are so encouraging.:D

[LostDoggy]

Nice updates - Sounds positive which is good

[LostDoggy]

Where the hell are we going to fit these players such as Everitt, Hill, Williams and Stack into out team?

[The Adelaide Connection]

Where the hell are we going to fit these players such as Everitt, Hill, Williams and Stack into out team?

An excellent problem to have :)

[The Pie Man]

Great updates, thanks TCD & Mitcha - great to hear Josh has put in the yards over the NY break. Great to hear most of the updates really

[alwaysadog]

Thanks Guys, great to get such quality, reliable and timely reports.

Any news of the boy Grant?

[Throughandthrough]

Made me chuckle, big story in the Adelaide Paper saying how the Cows had a 3 km time trial yesterday, and then reading we had a 3.2 km trial today.

Woo hoo!

We are 6.7% fitter then the Cows!


NB great reading, cheers TCD etc.

[Mitcha]

Thanks Guys, great to get such quality, reliable and timely reports.

Any news of the boy Grant?
Funny you should ask about Grant, first minute of the end to end stuff he lead out hard and took a mark about 35 out from goal. Got far too close to the man on the mark and had to lift kick higher than preferred and totally shanked it and failed to get the distance, his kicking for a key forward needs plenty of work.

[LostDoggy]

Great updates guys. Keep them coming. Great to hear that most of the boys are going so good. In particular Tom Williams. Hope he can keep fit this year.

[Mantis]

Any news of the boy Grant?

He was a little disappointing in the TT yesterday (maybe 20sec behind where he should have been), but the players did some pretty heavy hill work this morning and he performed very well.

[Mantis]

Great updates, thanks TCD & Mitcha - great to hear Josh has put in the yards over the NY break. Great to hear most of the updates really

The club ran some optional training over the break to which Josh attended all the sessions instead of heading back to the west. The stern words that Josh received from the playing group before the break looks to have kicked him into gear which is great considering how much talent he has.

[Go_Dogs]

Love the reports guys, thanks a lot.

Sounds like all the rehab guys are coming along nicely, and we're going to have basically a full list to choose from come Rd 1.

Any word on how Griff is travelling?

[The Coon Dog]

Any word on how Griff is travelling?

Training really well.

[comrade]

The club ran some optional training over the break to which Josh attended all the sessions instead of heading back to the west. The stern words that Josh received from the playing group before the break looks to have kicked him into gear which is great considering how much talent he has.

Fantastic to hear.

Thanks for passing along all these great reports - much appreciated.

[comrade]

Sounds like all the rehab guys are coming along nicely, and we're going to have basically a full list to choose from come Rd 1.


Please, knock on some wood right now ;)

[Go_Dogs]

Training really well.

Cheers, great to hear. I'm quite excited about his prospects this year.




Please, knock on some wood right now

I am sitting at a wooden table, working away, so the obligatory knocks on wood have been coming thick and fast - no need to worry :D

[alwaysadog]

The club ran some optional training over the break to which Josh attended all the sessions instead of heading back to the west. The stern words that Josh received from the playing group before the break looks to have kicked him into gear which is great considering how much talent he has.

Agree whole heartedly with both points.

[alwaysadog]

He was a little disappointing in the TT yesterday (maybe 20sec behind where he should have been), but the players did some pretty heavy hill work this morning and he performed very well.

So where is he tracking at this point in time or is it too early to tell, apart from the fact that he is mow prepared to do the hard stuff?

[alwaysadog]

Funny you should ask about Grant, first minute of the end to end stuff he lead out hard and took a mark about 35 out from goal. Got far too close to the man on the mark and had to lift kick higher than preferred and totally shanked it and failed to get the distance, his kicking for a key forward needs plenty of work.

Could be that he is trying too hard and has little self confidence. Could be that he isn't up to it. Sounds more like the former, what's you're insight on this matter?

[Mantis]

So where is he tracking at this point in time or is it too early to tell, apart from the fact that he is mow prepared to do the hard stuff?

In terms of expectations for the year?

If I am on the ball it would be hoped that Jarrad could improve his fitness and strength over the coming months of pre-season such that his body is in much better shape to cope with the rigours of a full year of senior footy, clearly last year it wasn't.

He will get opportunities thru the pre-season and then the rest is up to him. The hope is that he plays well enough such that we can get 8 to 12 AFL games into him this year as a foil for Hall. He will also be given more opportunities to play as a 'deep' forward at VFL level which is probably where he is most suited.

All that probably sounds like the spin we received this time last year, but it was clear when Jarrad was given an AFL game that he couldn't run the game out and as the season went on he lost confidence in his game ( probably not helped by being played up the ground).

[GVGjr]

All that probably sounds like the spin we received this time last year, but it was clear when Jarrad was given an AFL game that he couldn't run the game out and as the season went on he lost confidence in his game ( probably not helped by being played up the ground).

I think it was clear before Grant played his senior game that he couldn't run out a senior game so his promotion was always going to be a short term thing.
I heard that he has vastly improved his fitness from 12 months ago but he is still a fair way off where he should be. Staying injury free is probably the key for him.

[alwaysadog]

In terms of expectations for the year?

If I am on the ball it would be hoped that Jarrad could improve his fitness and strength over the coming months of pre-season such that his body is in much better shape to cope with the rigours of a full year of senior footy, clearly last year it wasn't.

He will get opportunities thru the pre-season and then the rest is up to him. The hope is that he plays well enough such that we can get 8 to 12 AFL games into him this year as a foil for Hall. He will also be given more opportunities to play as a 'deep' forward at VFL level which is probably where he is most suited.

All that probably sounds like the spin we received this time last year, but it was clear when Jarrad was given an AFL game that he couldn't run the game out and as the season went on he lost confidence in his game ( probably not helped by being played up the ground).

Thanks Mantis, even if it has a familiar ring it's the up to date strategy. Clearly he hasn't advanced much or as much as hoped in his time at the club. Though to be fair he looked better in the NAB preseason cup game than he did in the subsequent game.

The clock must be ticking and to compound his problems he hasn't turned out to be very flexible ie can't play up the ground to any great extent. I wonder what real chances he's got when opponents will know they can so easily get him into a position he doesn't cope too well with.

[alwaysadog]

I think it was clear before Grant played his senior game that he couldn't run out a senior game so his promotion was always going to be a short term thing.
I heard that he has vastly improved his fitness from 12 months ago but he is still a fair way off where he should be. Staying injury free is probably the key for him.

He will surely have to make considerable improvement to still be with us this time next year given how slow his progress has been and with the younger mob breathing down his neck.

[Sedat]

He will surely have to make considerable improvement to still be with us this time next year given how slow his progress has been and with the younger mob breathing down his neck.
From memory he signed a 2 year contract late in season 2009, so that would give him until 2011 to establish himself at AFL level.

[Mofra]

I think it was clear before Grant played his senior game that he couldn't run out a senior game so his promotion was always going to be a short term thing.
I heard that he has vastly improved his fitness from 12 months ago but he is still a fair way off where he should be. Staying injury free is probably the key for him.
May have been a Hill or Stack type promotion, showing them they are actually a little further away from senior footy than they thought.

[The Pie Man]

The club ran some optional training over the break to which Josh attended all the sessions instead of heading back to the west. The stern words that Josh received from the playing group before the break looks to have kicked him into gear which is great considering how much talent he has.

Summer school!

Agreed, it's good news - should hopefully earn him back any respect lost from the playing group as well over his condition/effort

[alwaysadog]

From memory he signed a 2 year contract late in season 2009, so that would give him until 2011 to establish himself at AFL level.

Thanks Sedat, the facts do sometimes get in the way of an apparently good line of reasonning.

That would indicate that not only does he have more time than I anticipated but that late last season they thought he was worth persevering with.

[Go_Dogs]

That would indicate that not only does he have more time than I anticipated but that late last season they thought he was worth persevering with.

He's a very interesting player isn't he? From all accounts he has some great attributes including his speed and agility, along with a pretty sticky set of hands. His chase down tackle in the NAB Cup game last year was also a big positive for me, shows that killer instinct.

He's obviously struggled a bit to come to terms with the work load required, and I think that's fine - not every 17 year old who gets drafted is an elite athlete, and some require probably a bit more time. It's not the easiest thing to do to push yourself to absolute breaking point every session, and for some who have a lot of natural ability they've probably been able to coast a bit as juniors.

Everitt is a good example of this, as apparently he is really busting his gut a lot harder this pre-season compared to his pevious ones. Really pushing through the pain barrier and extending himself. Hopefully Grant, being a good friend of Everitt's can be spurred by this and really work his own butt off to compete with Everitt.

[Cyberdoggie]

He's a very interesting player isn't he? From all accounts he has some great attributes including his speed and agility, along with a pretty sticky set of hands. His chase down tackle in the NAB Cup game last year was also a big positive for me, shows that killer instinct.

He's obviously struggled a bit to come to terms with the work load required, and I think that's fine - not every 17 year old who gets drafted is an elite athlete, and some require probably a bit more time. It's not the easiest thing to do to push yourself to absolute breaking point every session, and for some who have a lot of natural ability they've probably been able to coast a bit as juniors.

Everitt is a good example of this, as apparently he is really busting his gut a lot harder this pre-season compared to his pevious ones. Really pushing through the pain barrier and extending himself. Hopefully Grant, being a good friend of Everitt's can be spurred by this and really work his own butt off to compete with Everitt.

Perhaps a temporary shift to the backline might get him more focussed on his workrate and fitness early in the football season, it would also allow him to concentrate on his game rather than worry about his form and how many goals he kicks.
For a young player i'm sure this stat and the pressure that goes along with being a high draft forward can be a heavy burden. If Jarrad is given a simple task of playing in a defensive chb type role then it may help him for a while.

[Mofra]

He's obviously struggled a bit to come to terms with the work load required, and I think that's fine - not every 17 year old who gets drafted is an elite athlete, and some require probably a bit more time.
Grant seems like a classic example of a player needing more time than normal. He spent a chunk of his draft year on the sidelines, then his first year at the Dogs was ruined by OP, so he is at least two years behind his classmates in development. Add a naturally skinny frame and you have someone who will take a fair while to establish themself.

[LostDoggy]

Grant seems like a classic example of a player needing more time than normal. He spent a chunk of his draft year on the sidelines, then his first year at the Dogs was ruined by OP, so he is at least two years behind his classmates in development. Add a naturally skinny frame and you have someone who will take a fair while to establish themself.

Grant won't be the first first-round tall to struggle to make the grade: any investment with a three-year-plus wait prior to return has to be viewed as a low percentage hit-and-miss proposition, which makes the rookie draft almost as important as a first round pick when it comes to talls.

Andrew McDougall went at 5 in his respective draft too didn't he?

[Greystache]

Grant won't be the first first-round tall to struggle to make the grade:

No, Tim Walsh was drafted before him.

[LostDoggy]

No, Tim Walsh was drafted before him.

And Jesse Wells between them. ;)

[alwaysadog]

And Jesse Wells between them. ;)

I'm not sure what the history of other players is adding to the issue of whether Grant is making sufficient progress to provide hope that he will make it. That other high pick talls have fallen by the wayside isn't relevant IMHO.

[LostDoggy]

Grant won't be the first first-round tall to struggle to make the grade: any investment with a three-year-plus wait prior to return has to be viewed as a low percentage hit-and-miss proposition, which makes the rookie draft almost as important as a first round pick when it comes to talls.

Andrew McDougall went at 5 in his respective draft too didn't he?

Essendon are still waiting on Gumbleton who has had his injuries probably because they rushed him and his body wasnt right for AFL.

Our forward line isnt crying out for Grant at the moment so i hope they take their time with him and get his body right first.

[LostDoggy]

Essendon are still waiting on Gumbleton who has had his injuries probably because they rushed him and his body wasnt right for AFL.

Our forward line isnt crying out for Grant at the moment so i hope they take their time with him and get his body right first.

The issue I see with Grant is his kicking seems to be seriously lacking for a FF. Love his sticky hands, his judgement and his timing, just think his kicking is woeful

[chef]

Essendon are still waiting on Gumbleton who has had his injuries probably because they rushed him and his body wasnt right for AFL.
Our forward line isnt crying out for Grant at the moment so i hope they take their time with him and get his body right first.

This is why we should give Ayce as long as he needs to grow into his body and not rush him.

[Mofra]

Grant won't be the first first-round tall to struggle to make the grade: any investment with a three-year-plus wait prior to return has to be viewed as a low percentage hit-and-miss proposition, which makes the rookie draft almost as important as a first round pick when it comes to talls.

Andrew McDougall went at 5 in his respective draft too didn't he?
Yep - Doogs was physically up to the grade, just not mentally tough enough. Would have made the grade if he took more bastard pills.

[Mantis]

For those interested training will be starting at 8.30 tomorrow morning (Fri 8th Jan) rather than 10am due to the hot day predicted.

This will be the norm (earlier starts) when the forecast is for a hot day.

[LostDoggy]

The issue I see with Grant is his kicking seems to be seriously lacking for a FF. Love his sticky hands, his judgement and his timing, just think his kicking is woeful

His judgement and timing were the flaws in the Willy games I watched. I'm still interested to see what he ends up doing though.

[LostDoggy]

For those interested training will be starting at 8.30 tomorrow morning (Fri 8th Jan) rather than 10am due to the hot day predicted.

This will be the norm (earlier starts) when the forecast is for a hot day.


Would love to be going, but i start back at work tomorrow damit.....looking forward to reading all the reports and maybe seeing a few photos.....

[Mantis]

My parents went down to training this morning, here is a brief report:

* Gia - Looked very good, Dad remarked that he looked like he had slimmed down and had picked up a bit of pace off the mark.

* A few were training away from the main group including Ward & Minson.

* Hall - Looked sharp in the match simulation, played as a decoy for a bit, but lead out strongly when the ball was directed his way.

* Cordy was absent - TCD reported that he had some calf soreness last week so he is probably still being nursed along?

Dad remarked that the group looked very happy within themself, lots of laughing and horsing around especially when playing a 'clapping' game. While jogging on the spot the 'instructor' yells out a number, for each number he yells the players have to clap that many times. If you stuff it up your out. When he yells out 'NONE' and the clapping starts the players give it to the offenders.

[LostDoggy]

Great to hear about Gia -- add this to his P.B. in the 3.2km time trial and you have one fit bugger, which half-explains his uber-quick return from a knee injury last year. With an uninterrupted pre-season (touch wood) he could really break teams open this year.

[Mofra]

Great to hear about Gia -- add this to his P.B. in the 3.2km time trial and you have one fit bugger, which half-explains his uber-quick return from a knee injury last year. With an uninterrupted pre-season (touch wood) he could really break teams open this year.
I hope so. His ability to dispose of the ball in heavy traffic is sublime, and building a fitness base means he can spend more time in our midfield rotation in the coming year.

It would be intersting to know how the forwardline group is clicking with Hall - the snippet above sounds good, but generally it takes time to get a feel for each other's movements down there (Aker commented as much when he started too).

[Sockeye Salmon]

Gia has missed the last two pre-seasons, hasn't he?

[w3design]

Back on the subject of Grant The Younger. I felt watching some pre season 09, that fitness wise he was a mile behind the rest of the troops, and I felt that showed out in numerous games I watched at Willy. during the season. I felt his deficiencies stemmed back to a combination of fitness and confidence, not any lack of talent. And that included his kicking. If they can get him game fit, and give him some time with Grant Sn [Chris], I feel sure he can be a player. He just needs to be fitter, stronger, and the self confidence hopefully will come through.
But a tall forwards position will still need to be earned, as there are plenty of other talented young talls in the up and coming group that will be aiming for the same positions in the senior line up over the next few years. Young Jonesy for one, who has oodles of potential, and perhaps a little more versatility, which seems to be a big plus where Rocket is concerned.

[Remi Moses]

Visited the North Melbourne pool this morning and happened to watch North train for a little while. Their new facility is impressive and they were out there for about 2hrs,noticed Madjak Daw who just moved incredibly for a player that size. Was that pool there when North played at Arden St? Everytime i visit that pool Rickman's 7 goals on Keith Greig and our subsequent 10 goal win envokes happy memories:D:D

[alwaysadog]

Back on the subject of Grant The Younger. I felt watching some pre season 09, that fitness wise he was a mile behind the rest of the troops, and I felt that showed out in numerous games I watched at Willy. during the season. I felt his deficiencies stemmed back to a combination of fitness and confidence, not any lack of talent. And that included his kicking. If they can get him game fit, and give him some time with Grant Sn [Chris], I feel sure he can be a player. He just needs to be fitter, stronger, and the self confidence hopefully will come through.
But a tall forwards position will still need to be earned, as there are plenty of other talented young talls in the up and coming group that will be aiming for the same positions in the senior line up over the next few years. Young Jonesy for one, who has oodles of potential, and perhaps a little more versatility, which seems to be a big plus where Rocket is concerned.

Thanks for these insights paulv.

If fitness was a big problem with his overall performance it could also have made him less adaptable. Let's hope that the signs of improvement in his training efforts carry on throughout the preseason and into the season proper.

While it will be a shame if he doesn't make it, it will be a bigger shame if he doesn't give himself every chance.

[Before I Die]

The issue I see with Grant is his kicking seems to be seriously lacking for a FF. Love his sticky hands, his judgement and his timing, just think his kicking is woeful

It has looked a bit sus the few times I have seen him play, but what do the statistics say? I know he has not kicked a huge number of goals at Williamstown, perhaps 20 to 30 over the last two years. Still, the question is, what is his goal to behind ratio? I tried to track this down without success, others on here may have better googling skills. Poor conversion can, and will, kill a FF, but it is results, not style which count.

[alwaysadog]

The issue I see with Grant is his kicking seems to be seriously lacking for a FF. Love his sticky hands, his judgement and his timing, just think his kicking is woeful

Mitch Hahn is the example he should follow; if Mitch can become one of the most accurate kicks for goal in the AFL through a combination of determination, application and self belief, then anything short of a camel can do the same provided that the hard work is done and the right advice heeded.

Doesn't have to look pretty just has to be effective... but Grant doesn't look unco in any other aspect of his game and he's not exactly a muscle bound hulk, so it's an enigma.

[alwaysadog]

I wonder if one or more of those into whose ears the coaching oracle frequently casts authentic pearls of wisdom could ask some leading questions about specific goals Grant the younger has been set and what if anything is being done to iron out the wrinkles in his kicking, or as he likes check lists what does he still have to tick off.

In fact it would make great reading and be a draw card for this site if they were able to get the Rocket to go through one young player a week and give some detailed information about their specific programs and what they are working on.

[The Underdog]

Mitch Hahn is the example he should follow; if Mitch can become one of the most accurate kicks for goal in the AFL through a combination of determination, application and self belief, then anything short of a camel can do the same provided that the hard work is done and the right advice heeded.

Doesn't have to look pretty just has to be effective... but Grant doesn't look unco in any other aspect of his game and he's not exactly a muscle bound hulk, so it's an enigma.

One thing Hahn always had though was good penetration with his kicks. He was always able to kick a goal from 50m (or hit the pie vendor 20 rows back in the pocket). I haven't really seen that from Grant. He seems to struggle for distance a lot of the time. I haven't seen a massive amount of him but it seems there's defintely plenty of work to do there.

[Cyberdoggie]

One thing Hahn always had though was good penetration with his kicks. He was always able to kick a goal from 50m (or hit the pie vendor 20 rows back in the pocket). I haven't really seen that from Grant. He seems to struggle for distance a lot of the time. I haven't seen a massive amount of him but it seems there's defintely plenty of work to do there.

When you are built like a twig you aren't going to have much power behind the kick.

His bow legs and pigeon toed feet aren't going to help either.

[Mofra]

When you are built like a twig you aren't going to have much power behind the kick.
The Christian Howard Appreciation Society sends you a formal warning notice ;)

[The Coon Dog]

I wonder if one or more of those into whose ears the coaching oracle frequently casts authentic pearls of wisdom could ask some leading questions about specific goals Grant the younger has been set and what if anything is being done to iron out the wrinkles in his kicking, or as he likes check lists what does he still have to tick off.

In fact it would make great reading and be a draw card for this site if they were able to get the Rocket to go through one young player a week and give some detailed information about their specific programs and what they are working on.
I think Rocket's pretty good with his time & the information he supplies, but surely some stuff must remain in house. Not too sure he'd like the other 15 clubs knowing what was happening with our younger players. I could be wrong, but I don't think I am.

[Remi Moses]

When is the next training session?

[lemmon]

I always thought that prior to drafting Grant one of the positives being talked about was his accuracy.

[Go_Dogs]

I hope so. His ability to dispose of the ball in heavy traffic is sublime, and building a fitness base means he can spend more time in our midfield rotation in the coming year.

I really hope this happens. Gia's hands are probably just about the best we have, and given he isn't the quickest player on the list, spending more time inside is certainly a role that I could see him excelling at.

I have to say, our midfield rotations are looking ridiculous.

[over the hill]

Does anyone know how the new recruits are going? Would love to hear a bit about how they are coming along with their training and any progression from when they first started 6 weeks ago. Especially interested in Tutt.

[alwaysadog]

I think Rocket's pretty good with his time & the information he supplies, but surely some stuff must remain in house. Not too sure he'd like the other 15 clubs knowing what was happening with our younger players. I could be wrong, but I don't think I am.

No one is suggesting that we don't appreciate his time and information, nor are any of us silly enough to ignore the fact that it serves his purposes as well; two examples stand out firstly he uses it to put pressure on players when he wants to, like no other coach has done before, and he makes sure that he gathers plenty of public support for touchy decisions he makes by shaping the information released. This is all part of his media management, you can't be blind to that fact and neither are most posters.

To your second point I'm not asking for state secrets just something a little more specific and systematic. I suggest that you are reading too much into it and double thinking the coach. Rocket is obviously quite capable of making those calls himself.

Why not frame up a suitable question and ask him if he would be prepared to participate and if he would put any conditions on such information? You can say you've been asked to inquire. I found Rocket isn't usually too slow to offer information of quite detailed nature if he likes the question.

[dsiciliano83]

Does anyone know anything on how Ryan Griffin is traveling

[Swoop]

Popped into training first thing yesterday morning expecting to see the players grinding it out in the summer heat only to be told it was closed session this morning :( The only thing that made everything ok was that it was Chris Grant explaining this to me, the great man could tell me I'm about to die and I would smile and nod back such is my admiration of him!

He said he's working with a few of the younger taller players and his presence can only be a positive around the club. He's still looking in great nick may I add and the trip was worthwhile just for the brief conversation with Granty.

[LostDoggy]

Swoop.. you have been truely blessed!

[LostDoggy]

Soooooooo jealous Swoop!! ;)

[LostDoggy]

Popped into training first thing yesterday morning expecting to see the players grinding it out in the summer heat only to be told it was closed session this morning :( The only thing that made everything ok was that it was Chris Grant explaining this to me, the great man could tell me I'm about to die and I would smile and nod back such is my admiration of him!

He said he's working with a few of the younger taller players and his presence can only be a positive around the club. He's still looking in great nick may I add and the trip was worthwhile just for the brief conversation with Granty.

Nice work Swoop!

Does anyone know how Bouman is travelling?

[Go_Dogs]

Does anyone know anything on how Ryan Griffin is traveling

I asked this question a bit earlier in the thread, and Griffen is travelling very well apparently.

[Mantis]

As I alluded to in another thread my parents were able to catch a bit of the match practice that took place at yesterday's training, here are a few observations:

* Hall was picked up by Boumann. Dad was impressed by Boumann's closing speed which was in evidence. Hall seemed very comforatble patrolling the I50 region. Already there seems an understanding between Aker & Hall in that a couple of times Aker gave his 'no look' kicks and Hall had moved to the spot where Aker thought he would be.

* The aboriginal boys all looked good. Thorne did a few good things and Dad was impressed with Stack, said he looked very comfortable out there.

* A curly haird wingman (Daniels??) moved very well & did some nice things.

* As per my other brief report Murf looked in good touch.

* Roughead did well in his ruck duels with the 'Bearded one'.

The skills were a little poor, especially by foot, but it was thought there may have been a few more players on the ground than normal which meant it was a little crowded.

After the match practice the players were involved in some full ground drills and it was observed that the foot skills really picked up.

[Hotdog60]

Thanks for the report Mantis, the only thing I hate about WOOF in the off season is that it only makes you pine more for the on season.

Go Doggies.:D

[The Coon Dog]

Just spoke with Murph at the EMW Day & he said that he's feeling the best he has in years with his knee. He had a cyst removed & said he feels like his old self!

[LostDoggy]

Just spoke with Murph at the EMW Day & he said that he's feeling the best he has in years with his knee. He had a cyst removed & said he feels like his old self!

You are there now? Posting from Safari and the Iphone? Need an app that makes it easier to do so.

Good effort btw to go from Werribee.

[LostDoggy]

Just spoke with Murph at the EMW Day & he said that he's feeling the best he has in years with his knee. He had a cyst removed & said he feels like his old self!

You are the man on the spot TCD! Hopefully someone can post some pics too>

Is anyone sick of hearing opposition supporters banging on that our forward line is going to be our biggest weakness due to it being old?? Correct me if I'm wrong but we've been the highest scoring team over the past few seasons so don't think that will drop off dramatically.

[AndrewP6]

You are the man on the spot TCD! Hopefully someone can post some pics too>

Is anyone sick of hearing opposition supporters banging on that our forward line is going to be our biggest weakness due to it being old?? Correct me if I'm wrong but we've been the highest scoring team over the past few seasons so don't think that will drop off dramatically.

I was there, will post some pics later...stay tuned!

[Go_Dogs]

Thanks for the updates guys, fantastic stuff.

I must say, I'm getting more and more excited about Stack this coming season.

[GVGjr]

Thanks for the updates guys, fantastic stuff.

I must say, I'm getting more and more excited about Stack this coming season.

He looked in ripping condition today.

[Before I Die]

This is a link to photos posted on the AFL's website taken at Friday's training session.
http://www.aflphotos.com.au/galleries/results/?q=collection:AFL%202010%20Training%20-%20Western%20Bulldogs%20150110

[LostDoggy]

I don't know if this has been posted but the next open training session is on the 6th of Feb at 10am!

[divvydan]

I don't know if this has been posted but the next open training session is on the 6th of Feb at 10am!

Does this mean that all session between now and then are closed or can we still go and see the usual Mon/Wed/Fri sessions and that is perhaps a main day like EMW day? Notice that the 6th of Feb is a Saturday so got me wondering.

[Mantis]

Does this mean that all session between now and then are closed or can we still go and see the usual Mon/Wed/Fri sessions and that is perhaps a main day like EMW day? Notice that the 6th of Feb is a Saturday so got me wondering.

My understanding is that Feb 6th will be the first official intra-club match.

I am still reasonably sure that the Mon/Wed/Fri sessions are open to the public, but I will try and confirm it to be the case.

[Remi Moses]

You are the man on the spot TCD! Hopefully someone can post some pics too>

Is anyone sick of hearing opposition supporters banging on that our forward line is going to be our biggest weakness due to it being old?? Correct me if I'm wrong but we've been the highest scoring team over the past few seasons so don't think that will drop off dramatically.

You must be reading some of those experts on Big Footy.What a font of knowledge comes of that Forum!!:rolleyes:

[Swoop]

It's amazing the volume of content Bigfooty turns over these days, I no longer go on there purely because I don't have the time to sort through the junk to find the quality. Thank god for WOOF!

[Greystache]

You are the man on the spot TCD! Hopefully someone can post some pics too>

Is anyone sick of hearing opposition supporters banging on that our forward line is going to be our biggest weakness due to it being old?? Correct me if I'm wrong but we've been the highest scoring team over the past few seasons so don't think that will drop off dramatically.

I don't think people (or at least reasonable people) are saying our forward line is a weakness during the home and away season, given we’ve been the second highest, and highest scoring team in consecutive seasons, I assume they’re referring to our forward line in finals matches.

In fairness they do have some justification for it, in the 4 finals we’ve played in the past 2 years against fellow top 4 teams, we’ve managed only 37 goals (an average of just over 9 goals a game), it’s been our Achilles heel. We had chances in both preliminary finals to run away with it but were unable to take advantage of our control of the game and put it on the scoreboard. I’m referring particularly to the 3rd quarter against Geelong and pretty much the whole game against St Kilda. Hopefully BBBBH can give us the avenue to goal in pressure situations this season and we can kick those clutch goals that will put us in the GF.

[stefoid]

I don't think people (or at least reasonable people) are saying our forward line is a weakness during the home and away season, given we’ve been the second highest, and highest scoring team in consecutive seasons, I assume they’re referring to our forward line in finals matches.

In fairness they do have some justification for it, in the 4 finals we’ve played in the past 2 years against fellow top 4 teams, we’ve managed only 37 goals (an average of just over 9 goals a game), it’s been our Achilles heel. We had chances in both preliminary finals to run away with it but were unable to take advantage of our control of the game and put it on the scoreboard. I’m referring particularly to the 3rd quarter against Geelong and pretty much the whole game against St Kilda. Hopefully BBBBH can give us the avenue to goal in pressure situations this season and we can kick those clutch goals that will put us in the GF.

Indeed. Even if Hall is well held it will release a Hahn, Johnson or Hill to create haovc on a lesser opponent.

[Greystache]

Indeed. Even if Hall is well held it will release a Hahn, Johnson or Hill to create haovc on a lesser opponent.

Personally I think Mitch Hahn will have the best season of his career in terms of goal output. With Hall to take the best defender, Murphy and Johnson to take the premier mobile defenders, Mitch will finally get the third string defender he should've been getting the past 2 seasons. 50 goals is my prediction.

[mjp]

Personally I think Mitch Hahn will have the best season of his career in terms of goal output. With Hall to take the best defender, Murphy and Johnson to take the premier mobile defenders, Mitch will finally get the third string defender he should've been getting the past 2 seasons. 50 goals is my prediction.

50 goals? I love your confidence but that is a helluva lot.

I would have said 30 would be a career high (I'm guessing!) and 50 goals would completely stagger me.

[Rocco Jones]

I would have said 30 would be a career high (I'm guessing!) and 50 goals would completely stagger me.

Same but I wouldn't have him in our best 22.

[The Coon Dog]

I would have said 30 would be a career high (I'm guessing!)

34 in 2008 & 38 in 2009 are his best 2 season hauls.

[Axe Man]

50 goals? I love your confidence but that is a helluva lot.

I would have said 30 would be a career high (I'm guessing!) and 50 goals would completely stagger me.

Mitch kicked 38.14 goals last season in 25 games. He also managed 34.23 in 2008 (also 25 games), so 50 goals isn't ridiculous, although it would certainly be unexpected.

Edit: TCD beat me to it!

[Greystache]

Mitch kicked 38.14 goals last season in 25 games. He also managed 34.23 in 2008 (also 25 games), so 50 goals isn't ridiculous, although it would certainly be unexpected.

Edit: TCD beat me to it!

And me too.

Not hard to see a net increase of 12 goals when he starts getting the third string defender, plus he won't regularly be double teamed inside 50 forcing him to try and hold the ball in to force a stoppage for his team mates like he has been the past 2 seasons.

I just think he might surprise a few this year.

[Greystache]

Same but I wouldn't have him in our best 22.

He was second in the clubs goal kicking last year.

[Rocco Jones]

He was second in the clubs goal kicking last year.

Yep, I know.

[mjp]

1/.He WILL be double teamed inside 50m because that is how footy is played these days. Everyone is double teamed.
2/.He has played all 25 games each of the last two seasons - that wont happen again.
3/.If we assume a similar number of forward entries, Hall will (well, he should, but let's all wait and see) take away some of his chances...
4/.Players dont suddenly have career years aged 30. By then - by and large - you are what you are (unless you were an mlb slugger during the steroid era) and by the numbers Mitch is a 30 goal a year goal-kicker.

I think 50 goals from Hahn would be a miracle.

[Greystache]

1/.He WILL be double teamed inside 50m because that is how footy is played these days. Everyone is double teamed.
2/.He has played all 25 games each of the last two seasons - that wont happen again.
3/.If we assume a similar number of forward entries, Hall will (well, he should, but let's all wait and see) take away some of his chances...
4/.Players dont suddenly have career years aged 30. By then - by and large - you are what you are (unless you were an mlb slugger during the steroid era) and by the numbers Mitch is a 30 goal a year goal-kicker.

I think 50 goals from Hahn would be a miracle.

He was routinely double teamed last year because he was our sole target deep inside 50 for large portions of the season, due to Johno and Aker playing higher up the ground and Minson proving unreliable as the tall target inside 50. Hall will receive that attention this year (assuming all goes well) meaning Hahn won't have to bullock, scrap, and defend just to keep the ball inside 50, allowing him to play more attackingly.

Good thing he'll be 28 this season- a professional footballers peak.

[Rocco Jones]

Good thing he'll be 28 this season- a professional footballers peak.

What's the saying? It's not how old you are, it's how old you feel?

Mitch has put his body through a lot during his career, while he might be literally 28 years old, his physical condition is a couple of years past that imo.

Good luck to him though, it's not like I have him that far behind the eight ball.

[Swoop]

1/.He WILL be double teamed inside 50m because that is how footy is played these days. Everyone is double teamed.
2/.He has played all 25 games each of the last two seasons - that wont happen again.
3/.If we assume a similar number of forward entries, Hall will (well, he should, but let's all wait and see) take away some of his chances...
4/.Players dont suddenly have career years aged 30. By then - by and large - you are what you are (unless you were an mlb slugger during the steroid era) and by the numbers Mitch is a 30 goal a year goal-kicker.

I think 50 goals from Hahn would be a miracle.
Interesting point you make with regards to being double teamed MJP. I couldn't but help notice an amazing statistic plucked from Side by Side, A season with Collingwood where assistant coach Neeld makes reference to the fact against Carlton they only conceded 5 one on one contests from 56 inside 50's.

I was amazed to think the number would be so low, obviously a trend the game is headed towards and validates your point of isolated one on one's being a thing of the past.

[mjp]

Good thing he'll be 28 this season- a professional footballers peak.

After my previous errors I had to look it up. Born in May 81 - he is 28 already.

Look - let's just call it quits. I hope he kicks 50, I don't think he can but like I say, I hope he does!

[Sedat]

Mitch has put his body through a lot during his career, while he might be literally 28 years old, his physical condition is a couple of years past that imo.
Spot on. Mitch's physical 'battering ram' style of football had taken a toll on his body, not dissimilar what happened to Aaron Hamill later on in his career. IMO the best we can hope for with Mitch is that he can match his output from recent seasons in 2010.

[LostDoggy]

Ok lets have a look at the likely match-ups the top teams will have for Hahn when matching up on our forward line.

Ive gone with our forward 6 of Hall, Hahn, Johnson, Murphy, Aker and Hill.

Geelong Back 6:
Scarlett - Hall
Taylor - Johnson
Milburn - Aker
Mackie - Murphy
Hunt - Hahn
Kelly - Hill

Saints Back 6:
Dawson - Hall
Gilbert - Murphy
Goddard - Johnson
Blake - Hahn
Gram - Hill
Fisher - Aker

Collingwoods Back 6:
Presti - Hall
Maxwell - Murphy
Shaw - Johnson
Brown (Leigh or Nathan) - Hahn
Toovey - Aker
Goldsack - Hill

As you can see, having Hall down there doesnt really change the match-ups. And we have heard that we wont be changing our structure down forward with him in the side. So it'll be a question of how much Hall brings the other players into the game and how the opposition try to defend our forwards.

[Greystache]

After my previous errors I had to look it up. Born in May 81 - he is 28 already.

Look - let's just call it quits. I hope he kicks 50, I don't think he can but like I say, I hope he does!

Interestingly some sites (footywire) have him born in October and some May, the club's says May so it's more likely correct.

No argument here, not much else to talk about in the off season I guess.

[Swoop]

I can't believe you forgot the Brazilian Anaconda Harry O'Brien from Collingwood's back six!!!

In all seriousness Hall will only be attracting similar opponents to what Welsh was drawing so I don't think the opposition will neccessarily be re-jigging their backlines dramatically.

[LostDoggy]

I can't believe you forgot the Brazilian Anaconda Harry O'Brien from Collingwood's back six!!!

In all seriousness Hall will only be attracting similar opponents to what Welsh was drawing so I don't think the opposition will neccessarily be re-jigging their backlines dramatically.

I knew i would forget someone. And Harry O is one of my favorites aswell. Yeah i dont think there will be a dramatic change either. But i do think someone from our forward line will have a break out year (not neccessarily Hahn) because of having Hall down.

[Swoop]

I actually think the breakout player may be Hill for a few reasons. Firstly, he is still young and trying to find consistency in his game, circumstances have meant he has knuckled down and finally I believe it will be Robert Murphy as oppossed to Hall that will free him up and allow him to take lesser opponents that he can expose through his aerial & ground level strengths.

[LostDoggy]

If Hahn isn't in the best 22, who should be? I don't think thats how the match committee sees it either.

[Rocco Jones]

If Hahn isn't in the best 22, who should be? I don't think thats how the match committee sees it either.

Want me to name them all? I guess the last one I have picked at the moment is Dre. I am noy saying Hahn offers us nothing, just that there's 22 others I have ahead of him. I am aware the MC doesn't see it that way but aren't forums a place to discuss differing opinions?

That being said, I think he is very close to our best 22 and would have no issues with him playing round one.

[The Underdog]

Want me to name them all? I guess the last one I have picked at the moment is Dre. I am noy saying Hahn offers us nothing, just that there's 22 others I have ahead of him. I am aware the MC doesn't see it that way but aren't forums a place to discuss differing opinions?

That being said, I think he is very close to our best 22 and would have no issues with him playing round one.

Interested to know what you think Dre offers the unit that Hahn doesn't. Obviously they are different players and Dre has better field kicking generally and a bit of flexibility but he certainly doesn't have a lot of runs on the board. Is it based more on potential than performance or do you just think that he offers a point of difference to Hahn currently?

[LostDoggy]

Ok lets have a look at the likely match-ups the top teams will have for Hahn when matching up on our forward line.

Ive gone with our forward 6 of Hall, Hahn, Johnson, Murphy, Aker and Hill.

Geelong Back 6:
Scarlett - Hall
Taylor - Johnson
Milburn - Aker
Mackie - Murphy
Hunt - Hahn
Kelly - Hill

Saints Back 6:
Dawson - Hall
Gilbert - Murphy
Goddard - Johnson
Blake - Hahn
Gram - Hill
Fisher - Aker

Collingwoods Back 6:
Presti - Hall
Maxwell - Murphy
Shaw - Johnson
Brown (Leigh or Nathan) - Hahn
Toovey - Aker
Goldsack - Hill

As you can see, having Hall down there doesnt really change the match-ups. And we have heard that we wont be changing our structure down forward with him in the side. So it'll be a question of how much Hall brings the other players into the game and how the opposition try to defend our forwards.

Ah! Bring it on - BBBBH will make a HUGE difference to our forward structure.

[LostDoggy]

Want me to name them all? I guess the last one I have picked at the moment is Dre. I am noy saying Hahn offers us nothing, just that there's 22 others I have ahead of him. I am aware the MC doesn't see it that way but aren't forums a place to discuss differing opinions?

That being said, I think he is very close to our best 22 and would have no issues with him playing round one.

Facts are facts. If the MC think he is in the best 22, then he is. No one is saying you can't have an opinion but that opinion should be allowed to be questioned as it doesn't seem sensible to me and a few others

[LostDoggy]

Hall at FF and Murph as lead up CHF, crumbing small in FP and johnno in the other pocket, hill as HFF, think Everitt will be in big comp with Hahn for last spot. If Murph was injured, Hahn automatic selection

[ledge]

I dont think you can know your best 22 this far from the start of a season.

[LostDoggy]

I dont think you can know your best 22 this far from the start of a season.
No problem with that but what makes someone drop out of the best 22 over preseason when before they were clearly in.

[LostDoggy]

Facts are facts. If the MC think he is in the best 22, then he is. No one is saying you can't have an opinion but that opinion should be allowed to be questioned as it doesn't seem sensible to me and a few others

Are these the same facts that the elder statesman in Johnson and Akermanis were going to be rested during the away interstate games but then didnt ? Are these the same facts that confirmed that Jarrad Grant was ready to play a significant role in the senior side but then didnt ? Things change and Hahn might be penciled into the best 22 now but are you really confirming that there is no scope for the coach to change his mind ? Roccos opinion seems sensible to me but the manner you have dismissed it isn't.

[alwaysadog]

I think we need a reality check here. Are we seriously suggesting that someone who has been a critical ingredient in our forward structure is under threat from a player who has yet to establish himself in the side?

I acknowledge that pre-season is all about speculation, but this one, like the converse suggestion that he will kick 50 goals, suggests that flights of fancy have too strong a grip on current imagination.

[LostDoggy]

Are these the same facts that the elder statesman in Johnson and Akermanis were going to be rested during the away interstate games but then didnt ?


Not sure how that compares? These are desires by the MC that didn't eventuate due to the circumstances. The MC desire isn't to have Hahn in the best 22, its to have the best 22 available. Just happend that Hahn was in it.


Are these the same facts that confirmed that Jarrad Grant was ready to play a significant role in the senior side but then didnt ?
Not sure where you heard this one from? Again its a desire not a truth.


Things change and Hahn might be penciled into the best 22 now but are you really confirming that there is no scope for the coach to change his mind ? Roccos opinion seems sensible to me but the manner you have dismissed it isn't.
Well it isn't to me yet as not 1 second of football has been played side he was in the best 22 and now he is out? You have haven't explained it yet why and neither has Rocco.

[Before I Die]

Facts are facts. If the MC think he is in the best 22, then he is. No one is saying you can't have an opinion but that opinion should be allowed to be questioned as it doesn't seem sensible to me and a few others

I think the fact Hahn played all 25 games last year puts the matter to bed for the moment. However, if a team doesn't improve it moves backwards and improvement can only come via one or more of the following; introduction of new players, improvement of current players or improvement in game plan and its implementation. If new players come in, then current best 22 players must go out. Hahn is neither an elite performer nor is he likely to show significant improvement. Even though he is a favourite of mine, i am hoping other players surpass him as we become an even stronger combination.

I don't know what Hahn's contract situation is, or the strength of the "go home" factor for him. But I would like to see him pick up a very healthy retirement bonus, through a GC17 contract, to see out his final years in the game as our young tall forwards make their mark.

[LostDoggy]

I think the fact Hahn played all 25 games last year puts the matter to bed for the moment. However, if a team doesn't improve it moves backwards and improvement can only come via one or more of the following; introduction of new players, improvement of current players or improvement in game plan and its implementation. If new players come in, then current best 22 players must go out. Hahn is neither an elite performer nor is he likely to show significant improvement. Even though he is a favourite of mine, i am hoping other players surpass him as we become an even stronger combination.

Fair enough, but Hahn isn't the only one that would be under that pressure. I think Eagelton is more likely to not be in the best 22 just because of his age.



I don't know what Hahn's contract situation is, or the strength of the "go home" factor for him. But I would like to see him pick up a very healthy retirement bonus, through a GC17 contract, to see out his final years in the game as our young tall forwards make their mark.

No offence but I don't think GC17 would be in the market for someone his age that isn't in the elite class.

[Before I Die]

Fair enough, but Hahn isn't the only one that would be under that pressure. I think Eagelton is more likely to not be in the best 22 just because of his age.




No offence but I don't think GC17 would be in the market for someone his age that isn't in the elite class.

I agree regarding Eagleton, though I think he is probably more critical to our game plan at this point in time.

Regarding GC17 and Hahn, I did say it was my hope rather than the liklihood. However, they are going to be a young side and a bit of experienced grunt will also be needed. He could easily be a strong contributer for a couple of years as their young players develop. Even on significantly more than we could offer, he wouldn't be exceptionally expensive and after they throw gazillions at Ablett jr they are going to need to make some budget buys. Apart from one or two marquee players, there talent will come from the development of their early draft picks. I think the raiding of other AFL teams will be about building a core of hard bodied, AFL ready players with its share of Rocco Jones Ekers

[GVGjr]

I think we need a reality check here. Are we seriously suggesting that someone who has been a critical ingredient in our forward structure is under threat from a player who has yet to establish himself in the side?

I acknowledge that pre-season is all about speculation, but this one, like the converse suggestion that he will kick 50 goals, suggests that flights of fancy have too strong a grip on current imagination.

Hahn keeps making an important contribution each season so I can understand that the coach would have him right in the plans. I can't see him kicking 50 goals for us this year but for that matter I can't see Hall kicking 50 either. We are fortunate to have a number of players that can bob up and make sure we kick a winning score.

[Mantis]

Fair enough, but Hahn isn't the only one that would be under that pressure. I think Eagelton is more likely to not be in the best 22 just because of his age.

Age should not be a factor in determing our best team.

[stefoid]

Hmmm, In a free flowing, end to end goal fest, Hahn might be out of the loop a bit, but playing in a crunching final against St Kilda or Hawthorn in a congested forward line, he comes into his own.

Just checked - in the prelim, Johnson was the I50 target 11 out of 38 times! He marked the ball 2 times. Hahn was our next favored target - 6 times - and he marked the ball 3 times, kicked 2 goals, laid 7 tackles and 9 1%ers.

No disrespect to Johno who played a ripper of a game, but it is a damn shame for him and the team that he was our main forward target while up the other end they kicked it to riewolt 16 times. A credit to our defensive pressure that he only marked it 3 times inside 50, but I think he may have got a free or two as well.

What might happen is that Hall becoming the main target frees up the responsibility of Johnson and Hahn to get themselves into scoring positions (particularly Johno), and they are able to increase their defensive efforts.

[Sedat]

Fair enough, but Hahn isn't the only one that would be under that pressure. I think Eagelton is more likely to not be in the best 22 just because of his age.
In many ways, Hahn and Eagleton are in a similar position. Both players possess physical attributes that are still in relatively rare supply on the overall list, hence they are considered more indispensible to the senior team due to their unique (to the Bulldogs) set of skills. For all the discussion on Eagleton in recent seasons, he has not been dropped for poor form since 2003, an unbelievable run really - even in 2009, 6 genuine stinkers in a row mid-season wasn't enough to see him dropped (to be fair he was a terrific contributor for most of the season before and after this slump). Similarly Hahn is one of the first few picked when he is fully fit (even when he isn't fully fit, as evidenced by the first few weeks of 2009 when he was carrying an injury that rendered him almost completely ineffective for a few consecutive weeks), so it would be a major surprise not to see either of them in the starting 22 come Round 1.

Having said that, I think we have seen the best that both players have to offer, so if they can at least match their 2008 and 2009 output, they will still be good contributors to the senior team. If they both fall away significantly, you'd like to think that they would be in the gun because we have quality performances from emerging Bulldogs listed players at VFL level.

[Swoop]

The problem with Eagleton is that there is very few players on our list who actually offer a similar skills set and could potentially take his spot. Besides Griffen in the midfield and perhaps Higgins not many on our list offer the combination of both hard running, running the lines as well as the ability to deliver the football going forward. If Addison could add the delivery aspect to his game than he could be an ideal replacement and at this early stage Wood has shown glimpses of these skills but nothing just yet to suggest he could produce it on a consistent level in the AFL.

I think looking down the track if Harbrow could develop his tank with another preseason or two than he would be an excellent option through the midfield as he has the zip, skills and unpredictability to be an asset in the middle. I would have loved to have seen Harbrow given a push in the midfield in our first final against Geelong, I felt that he was being exposed by Stokes deep in the forward line and generally speaking the team as a whole were fairly flat and didn't offer a shot, his willingness to attack and take the opposition on would have been excellent for that situation. Having said that in a final I understand the need to stick to the structures and have faith in what has worked for them all season

[Go_Dogs]

The problem with Eagleton is that there is very few players on our list who actually offer a similar skills set and could potentially take his spot.

What about Josh Hill?

He doesn't have the same penetration that Eagleton has, but I think his field kicking is in the fairly good - good region. He certainly has the natural attributes to become an outstanding gut-runner, and his speed off the mark is good enough, although probably not quite as quick as Eagleton. He does work very hard though, and can quite quickly appear at a secondary contest further down field.

He'd be my vote.

[always right]

Personally I think Eade's focus will be on winning the premiership next year with development of players for the next two years a secondary consideration. It's all about having your best players on the park and at the moment Hahn and Eagleton are the incumbents.

At this stage I expect they are looking for Hahn to play exactly the same role he has played previously which is a combination of goalkicking and defensive pressure. Having the combined defensive pressure of both Hahn and Hall should help our other forwards no end and create opportunities. If this side of Mitch's game falls away, he will find himself playing at Willi.

No-one in our team runs as hard as Eagleton even if it is mainly forward than defensively. There are few in the competition that can run as hard and finish as well as Eagleton after one of his penetrating runs. If he provides the same output in this area as last year, he keeps his spot. The good news is that we have blokes who can come straight in if either Mitch or Eagleton drop away in the key parts of their game.

In regard to the comments about our match-ups not being dramatically different with Hall in the team, that may be true but I daresay the role the opposition defender plays when they are against Hall will be significantly different. I don't see anyone willing to take the chances against Hall that they would normally have taken against blokes like Welsh or Minson. One less attacking defender will help our forwardline.

[Remi Moses]

Hmmm, In a free flowing, end to end goal fest, Hahn might be out of the loop a bit, but playing in a crunching final against St Kilda or Hawthorn in a congested forward line, he comes into his own.

Just checked - in the prelim, Johnson was the I50 target 11 out of 38 times! He marked the ball 2 times. Hahn was our next favored target - 6 times - and he marked the ball 3 times, kicked 2 goals, laid 7 tackles and 9 1%ers.

No disrespect to Johno who played a ripper of a game, but it is a damn shame for him and the team that he was our main forward target while up the other end they kicked it to riewolt 16 times. A credit to our defensive pressure that he only marked it 3 times inside 50, but I think he may have got a free or two as well.

What might happen is that Hall becoming the main target frees up the responsibility of Johnson and Hahn to get themselves into scoring positions (particularly Johno), and they are able to increase their defensive efforts.

Great Post I agree . It's funny when you watch a game live and you see Hahn not touch the ball often and you think ''Why is he in the side''. Then if you watch a replay you see why. Just think he might go Under the Radar this season and get more possies.

[Before I Die]

Personally I think Eade's focus will be on winning the premiership next year with development of players for the next two years a secondary consideration. It's all about having your best players on the park and at the moment Hahn and Eagleton are the incumbents.

At this stage I expect they are looking for Hahn to play exactly the same role he has played previously which is a combination of goalkicking and defensive pressure. Having the combined defensive pressure of both Hahn and Hall should help our other forwards no end and create opportunities. If this side of Mitch's game falls away, he will find himself playing at Willi.
No-one in our team runs as hard as Eagleton even if it is mainly forward than defensively. There are few in the competition that can run as hard and finish as well as Eagleton after one of his penetrating runs. If he provides the same output in this area as last year, he keeps his spot. The good news is that we have blokes who can come straight in if either Mitch or Eagleton drop away in the key parts of their game.

In regard to the comments about our match-ups not being dramatically different with Hall in the team, that may be true but I daresay the role the opposition defender plays when they are against Hall will be significantly different. I don't see anyone willing to take the chances against Hall that they would normally have taken against blokes like Welsh or Minson. One less attacking defender will help our forwardline.

I think you have to have a strong focus on player development whether you are pushing for a premiership or not. Premierships are hard to win, but dropping right out of contention through a lack of player development is very easy to achieve.

Hahn and Eagleton are both very important players and thoroughly deserve to be in our current best 22. I just hope that one or two of our developing players have break-out years in the style of Ward and Hill. If that happens and there are no injuries, then some-one has to make way. It could be Aker, or Hargrave or Picken or .....? I just suspect that if it does happen, Hahn is the most likely.

If the coaches felt Hall would make very little difference why did we recruit him. I think he will have a significant impact on how other teams structure up against us. Perhaps it won't have a great effect on who mans up on who, but with regard to zoning off and defensive game plan, I think it will be it will be a whole new ball game.

[stefoid]

The problem with Eagleton is that there is very few players on our list who actually offer a similar skills set and could potentially take his spot. Besides Griffen in the midfield and perhaps Higgins not many on our list offer the combination of both hard running, running the lines as well as the ability to deliver the football going forward.

Moles, although last year he played mostly as a flanker I think.

Moles-> half back, harbrow-> wing could be a goer. Obviously relies on an injury to be promoted.

[Dazza]

This years NAB cup is going to be interesting. I got a little bit excited last year with Grants performance haha. Pretty sure I left the game thinking we had found the next gun forward of the game.

Anyone have any idea what players they are looking at dropping/bringing in?

[LostDoggy]

This years NAB cup is going to be interesting. I got a little bit excited last year with Grants performance haha. Pretty sure I left the game thinking we had found the next gun forward of the game.

Anyone have any idea what players they are looking at dropping/bringing in?

Round 1 appears to be the main focus judging by this.
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/western-bulldogs-plan-slow-start/story-e6frf9io-1225818975654

[Before I Die]

This years NAB cup is going to be interesting. I got a little bit excited last year with Grants performance haha. Pretty sure I left the game thinking we had found the next gun forward of the game.
Anyone have any idea what players they are looking at dropping/bringing in?

I still believe this. The things Grant did in this game did not look like flukes. Yes, he has been disappointing since, but I think the magic ingredients needed are fitness, strength and confidence. I am looking forward to see what he can do in the NAB cup this year after a full pre-season.

[The Coon Dog]

Round 1 appears to be the main focus judging by this.
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/western-bulldogs-plan-slow-start/story-e6frf9io-1225818975654

Sockeye & I were talking to Rocket on Saturday at the east Meets West Day & he made it very clear that he wouldn't do anything in the NAB Cup that would compromise Round 1.

[LostDoggy]

Sockeye & I were talking to Rocket on Saturday at the east Meets West Day & he made it very clear that he wouldn't do anything in the NAB Cup that would compromise Round 1.

I think the days are gone where we had to field a strong pre-season cup side to ensure we showed promise for the H&A season thus encouraging people to become members. To be honest I'd prefer to see some young guys run out in the colours for the first time and show that they want to take the next step.

[bornadog]

I think the days are gone where we had to field a strong pre-season cup side to ensure we showed promise for the H&A season thus encouraging people to become members. To be honest I'd prefer to see some young guys run out in the colours for the first time and show that they want to take the next step.

I can't remember ever fielding a strong team for the NAB or whatever crappy cup. Its just a practice match and a chance to try some kids out.

[mjp]

I know I am in the minority - but there are only two premierships awarded each year...I would very much like to win one of them. The pre-season grand final will do me just nicely for the moment.

[LostDoggy]

I know I am in the minority - but there are only two premierships awarded each year...I would very much like to win one of them. The pre-season grand final will do me just nicely for the moment.

even if it jeopardises our chances of the last grand final?

[Mofra]

I know I am in the minority - but there are only two premierships awarded each year...I would very much like to win one of them. The pre-season grand final will do me just nicely for the moment.
With a higher proportion of our best 22 getting a bit older, this would likely hurt our chances as the season wears on, considering in the last three years we have had two worrying form slumps late (fortunately last year we managed to regain some form prior to the finals).

I just want the second one.

[mjp]

Yep - we all want the second one.

Geelong won them both last year with an aging/old list - it is not as if one precludes the other. Collingwood were the other pre-season GF team last year and they finished top 4, the year before it was St Kilda vs Adelaide who both played finals (Saints top 4). I guess there are as many examples of teams doing well in the pre-season and being successful as there are successful pre-season followed by a collapse.

It isn't as if we have a dozen new plans or are trying to implement a massively different game-style...the players should know what is expected of them - they aren't out there 'trying to figure it out'. We have a strong group of players who should be capable of performing at a consistent level regardless of circumstances.

I just don't see what is stopping us from having a go at this.

[The Pie Man]

Yep - we all want the second one.

I just don't see what is stopping us from having a go at this.

Guys, just imagine for a moment we win the pre-season cup this year.....you can't tell you wouldn't be over the moon......

I'd be at a pre-season GF should we make one, and should we win, I'd celebrate very hard!! :D

I understand the need to not compromise prep for round 1, but I'd love to win this as well.

[Rocco Jones]

Guys, just imagine for a moment we win the pre-season cup this year......you can't tell you wouldn't be over the moon......

I'd be at a pre-season GF should we make one, and should we win, I'd celebrate very hard!! :D

I understand the need to not compromise prep for round 1, but I'd love to win this as well.

Yep. We are Bulldogs fans. The benchmark for celebrating hard isn't very high!

[Before I Die]

Guys, just imagine for a moment we win the pre-season cup this year.....you can't tell you wouldn't be over the moon......

I'd be at a pre-season GF should we make one, and should we win, I'd celebrate very hard!! :D

I understand the need to not compromise prep for round 1, but I'd love to win this as well.

I imagine the coaching staff would be like minded. I don't believe they would throw the NAB cup just to be malicious, but the focus has to be on the main season. We should treat round one of the NAB cup as a 'serious' practice match. Don't risk those recovering from injury, give young players who deserve it an opportunity to shine and be conservative with the veterans. If we win great. Each week we progress we can build the strength of the team as rehab programs complete and the fitness levels of our vets start to peak.

I would like to win the NAB cup, but if we were to win the NAB cup and fall over at the end of the year would I be happy? No ......ing way! I have seen us win night premeirships which were played between the 8 teams which didn't qualify for the day finals. Did I enjoy that? Yes! Has it eased the pain of no day premeirships during my lifetime (which now exceeds 50 years)? As I stated above, no ......ing way! I have seen great wins, I have seen champion players, I have seen Brownlow medallists and I have seen Night Premierships. I know how hard it is to win Day Premierships and I want to see the Dogs win one Before I Die. I am not being melodramatic, 55 years is a long time and I am not kidding myself thet the next one is just around the corner. If we can win the NAB cup great, but we must focus on winning the won played on the last weekend in September and not compromise this in anyway for anything.

[LostDoggy]

The problenm with winning the NAB cup is that its a crap comp. Not all teams take it seriously, numerous players are rested and the rules changes/experiments are BS.
I'll take the premiership, give ourselves a little pat on the back then get on with it cos it is really a distraction to the real goal. I think possibly Rocket and a number of other clubs see it that way too.

[Rocco Jones]

The problenm with winning the NAB cup is that its a crap comp. Not all teams take it seriously, numerous players are rested and the rules changes/experiments are BS.
I'll take the premiership, give ourselves a little pat on the back then get on with it cos it is really a distraction to the real goal. I think possibly Rocket and a number of other clubs see it that way too.

I think all clubs would agree on the regular season being the clear goal but as mjp has stated, winning the comp is hardly a formula for not being a contender when the real stuff starts.

Of course we should do everything to endeavour we are best prepared for the reguar season but after that I would enjoy us winning the comp.

[GVGjr]

I think all clubs would agree on the regular season being the clear goal but as mjp has stated, winning the comp is hardly a formula for not being a contender when the real stuff starts.

Of course we should do everything to endeavour we are best prepared for the reguar season but after that I would enjoy us winning the comp.

I wonder what the impact to memberships could be after signing a player like Hall and then winning the NAB cup?
I see no reason why teams can't perform well in both competitions. Sure you are much more cautious with good players if they are carrying an injury but we should still be fielding strong sides.

[hujsh]

I think I'd celebrate the prizemoney and potential memberships that result from winning more than the achievement of winning itself. It's really only beating 4 sides and i don't see it as anything worth getting emotional about.

[w3design]

If our "young guns" are half as Gun as we would like to think, is there any reason why we could not 'rest' some of our older players for the NAB and still aquit ourselves well?

[Rocco Jones]

Can anyone confirm whether or not training starts at 9.30am tomorrow? Planning on going.

[The Coon Dog]

Can anyone confirm whether or not training starts at 9.30am tomorrow? Planning on going.

I'll see what I can find out & let you know.

[Swoop]

I can confirm I spoke with the club today and they advised that tomorrow's session starts from 9:45 that will consist of skills and yes it will be open to the public. I might get there from 9:30 just to make sure I don't miss out, maybe I'll see ya there!

[Rocco Jones]

I'll see what I can find out & let you know.


I can confirm I spoke with the club today and they advised that tomorrow's session starts from 9:45 that will consist of skills and yes it will be open to the public. I might get there from 9:30 just to make sure I don't miss out, maybe I'll see ya there!

Thanks guys.

[Swoop]

Thanks guys.
I'll wear a red rose on my shirt so you can identify me :D

[LostDoggy]

I think all clubs would agree on the regular season being the clear goal but as mjp has stated, winning the comp is hardly a formula for not being a contender when the real stuff starts.
Is it really? Prior to Geelong winning it, how many teams have done the double? Carlton came last after winning the pre season,many others go into round 1 with over confidence and lose. Also as already stated the experimental rules don't make it great prep.

[Rocco Jones]

Is it really? Prior to Geelong winning it, how many teams have done the double? Carlton came last after winning the pre season,many others go into round 1 with over confidence and lose. Also as already stated the experimental rules don't make it great prep.

I think you misunderstand my statement Ernie. I said that "winning the comp is hardly a formula for not being a contender". I was arguing the point that winning the NAB Cup doesn't discount you from being in the contender, rather than arguing that winning the NAB Cup helps you to be a contender. I definitely don't use success in the NAB Cup as a meaningful tool for assessing a team's chances to win the premiership but I hardly see losing as a good guide either.

Basically, as long as we are doing everything to prepare for the real stuff, I hope we win.

[comrade]

I can confirm I spoke with the club today and they advised that tomorrow's session starts from 9:45 that will consist of skills and yes it will be open to the public. I might get there from 9:30 just to make sure I don't miss out, maybe I'll see ya there!


Thanks guys.

Looking forward to reading your training reports.

[Rocco Jones]

Looking forward to reading your training reports.

I might even take a few snaps with the iPhone. How modern age and the like?

[Rocco Jones]

I'll wear a red rose on my shirt so you can identify me :D

Two winks and a nod to confirm our identities.

[Jasper]

I definitely don't use success in the NAB Cup as a meaningful tool for assessing a team's chances to win the premiership but I hardly see losing as a good guide either.

Basically, as long as we are doing everything to prepare for the real stuff, I hope we win.

Spot on. We should go into every game with putting the strongest team on the field and of course allowing for the bigger picture. With the depth we have with experienced rookies there is no reason why we cant assemble a winning side.

[Jasper]

I wonder what the impact to memberships could be after signing a player like Hall and then winning the NAB cup?


5,000 more members at a guess.

[The Coon Dog]

Yup, 9.30am start. About 80 mins of footy followed by some solid running.

[Rocco Jones]

Yup, 9.30am start. About 80 mins of footy followed by some solid running.

Thanks Barry.

[LostDoggy]

http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/season2009/news/newsarticle/tabid/4112/newsid/88842/default.aspx

Can’t wait for the Season to begin?

Do you want to get a close up look at all of your favourite Bulldogs players as well as our exciting new talent?

Then you need to come down to Whitten Oval on Saturday February 6th at 10:00am**, to watch the team participate in their first Intra-Club match for 2010.

Wear your Red, White and Blue and support the team as they prepare for the season ahead.

**Date and time weather permitting and subject to change, please check the website prior to the event for any changes.

[LostDoggy]

I think you misunderstand my statement Ernie. I said that "winning the comp is hardly a formula for not being a contender". I was arguing the point that winning the NAB Cup doesn't discount you from being in the contender, rather than arguing that winning the NAB Cup helps you to be a contender. I definitely don't use success in the NAB Cup as a meaningful tool for assessing a team's chances to win the premiership but I hardly see losing as a good guide either.

Basically, as long as we are doing everything to prepare for the real stuff, I hope we win.

Fair enough, sorry mate

[alwaysadog]

I think too many of us are stuck in an old mind set about the preseason cup. I take the caveats, we won't be at full strength and it's not our highest priority etc.

On the other hand people have gone to some length to boast of our depth and to boost the qualities of the next rung of players.

If we are a genuine contender and not just a pretender we will bring a tough edge to every contest and each game. Nobody should be able to beat us in the desperation stakes, and that seems to me the main area we have lacked over the last decade or so at this time of year.

Not having a full list available should mean plenty of hungry footballers saying I want to be in the round 1 side.

I would be very disappointed with an early, soft exit from the preseason fiasco.

[Swoop]

I went down to training this morning, firstly I apologize for the thesis however I figure the bulldog tragics out there would prefer too much information rather than not enough. Here I go!

Skills based session this morning that went for approx 60 minutes. Started off with basic kicking drills and than broke into 3 separate groups, within those groups the offensive side had one extra player and their aim was to retain possession while stretching the defenders out and identifying the free man. As you can imagine at this level they were able to execute it quite easily and its these kind of drills that aren't necessarily fitness or intensity based that the clever players stand out such as Cooney, Murphy, Lake, Aker & Higgins. I must compliment Boyd here as he would play on and put pressure on himself to find and hit targets quickly under pressure.

They than broke into 2 separate handball games with tackling allowed. The purpose was to encourage the defensive players to put pressure on the ball carrier and not sit back. They worked for short periods and played 4 quarters, it was fast paced and the players appeared to be working fairly hard.

Following this they went into a full ground drill, 4 players would start with the ball from the defence and try and work it through the defensive press that consisted of 7 players through the midfield. There were also 4 midfielders plus a ruckman situated through the middle of the ground for the offensive team so they could link the ball and deliver it forward. In the forward line it was essentially 4 forwards against 3 defenders and obviously the midfield needed to be able to deliver to the free targets while the defenders needed to guard the most dangerous options. Jones & Hahn lined up in the goal square offensively while Murphy played a high CHF role with Hall playing a deeper CHF role. The defenders consisted of Williams, Wood & Hargrave.

Following this drill they finished off with a full ground game simulation, the red team was clearly the dominant side, forward line consisted of Hahn, Aka, Higgins, Johnson, Murphy & Hall while the defenders rotated their opponents but were made up of Markovic, Mulligan, Williams, Addison & Wood. Murphy presented and moved very well in this exercise and looks in terrific condition. The other end the forward line was bare but deepest was Jones and he was matched up on Lake and was able to lead and mark well with Lake on his hammer on one occassion.

That was the layout for the day, here are some more observations I made. Extended Thorne family & friends in attendance, Eade made a point of going to meet them all.

Eade mentioned Thorne not the best trainer but going along well. Stack complained of a tight calf this morning so was limited to his work today. Big Will was again the rehab group, Eade mentioned that the toe is fine and he will begin to do some running today (must've been inside as he didn't do any outside). He mentioned that Will had been losing weight and feeling lethargic recently, blood tests indicated too much fibre that was affecting a gland and should be corrected within next few weeks.

Rehab consisted of Cordy, Hooper, Minson, Reid, Tiller & Prato. Cordy & Tiller did running for most of the session while the others were inside for most of it. No Dale Morris of Jared Grant from what I saw.

Giansiracusa really stands out as being the most vocal on the track and is always trying to energize the group. I would call Cooney, Lake & Hudson 'natural footballers' they do everything right and when they have the ball they look good and make all the right decisions however they do not train with the same intensity as Boyd, Cross & Gia who really set a high standard in this area. Having said that Cooney did move freely and was impressive in the game simulation.

Overall the group is fairly relaxed but they are not overly loud, this can be further highlighted when you see Hall demand the football - infact his voice sticks out like dogs balls compared to others.

I thought both Hill & Everitt were consciously working really hard, they obviously have decencies but both appeared to be pushing themselves and look in good condition.

Wood could be a surprise packed for 2010, he looks a very likely type. He is very impressive with his intent to attack and is always looking to take his opponent on which is positive, he looks quite a strong powerful athlete.

First time I saw Moles and he does look a likely type in good condition likewise Williams is moving really well at the moment and appears very fit and strong. (Knocking on wood)

Harbrow, Thorne & Stack all completed majority of the session but not the game simulation at the end. Cal Ward also sat out the end of the session, he did some one on one kicking work. Tutt did not complete any of the work rather doing some one on one skills work aside from the group.

As expected in the game simulation Roughead matched up on Hudson again, he has talent but purely from a physical point of view he will have his work cut out competing against stronger seasoned campaigners. Eade did mention he will feature in the NAB cup due to Minson.

Higgins was lively across half forward in the game simulation while Cooney hit Hall twice on the chest inside the forward 50. Hall naturally draws plenty of ball going forward and the players did look for him perhaps because he presents so well. The game simulation featured lots of ball ups from the CHF end for the dominant side.

There was a boy named Sam who completed all the training who is down from the AIS.

I'm still impressed with Boumann's size and athleticism for a big man. Also, this is the second occasion I have seen Markovic and I have doubts over his ability to play on the genuine talls of the AFL. This is not based on specific performance but rather he is quite small when alongside the likes of Lake & Hall. He appears to be closer to size in Morris however Morris has a bit more athleticism on his side.

All in all good sessions, everyone looking and moving well. Any questions feel free to shoot them at me, my apologies again for the detail!

[lemmon]

Great report Swoop, top work mate. Just wondering if you noticed where Everitt was played in the match simulation whether defense or midfield and who he was matched up on.

[Greystache]

Thanks very much Swoop.

No such thing as too much detail for us guys stuck at work!

[Swoop]

Great report Swoop, top work mate. Just wondering if you noticed where Everitt was played in the match simulation whether defense or midfield and who he was matched up on.
With regards to the match simulation virtually everyone was playing the through the midfield. It was very one sided so the blue teams forward 50 was empty for large portions of the game with Jones being left alone for parts as well. Likewise with the red team besides the key forwards in Hahn & Hall who were based in the F50 everyone else pushed up the ground even the flankers in Higgins, Aka, Johnno & Murphy.

I'm sorry I can't recall who he was matched up on.

[LostDoggy]

Great report Swoop, thanks

[LostDoggy]

Yeap Great report, always good to hear about training :)

[LostDoggy]

Thanks Swoop. Great report. I was intending to get down there this morning but i didnt make it. Hopefully next week.

[comrade]

Nice report Swoop, much appreciated. Any report on training is like manna from heaven at this stage of the year!

I agree with you on Wood. I watched him closely all year and he made leaps and bounds. He has the body for top line football, let’s hope his development continues and he’ll soon have the nous to go with it.

[Templeton31]

thanks swoop. tops.

[The Underdog]

Thanks Swoop, incredibly comprehensive.

[LostDoggy]

Thanks Swoop, great read.

[Rocco Jones]

Awesome report Swoop. I think Swoop must have been sitting in front of me! Wearing a red shirt? Rocket came up to me after remembering a previous encounter and asked if I am any queries on players. I think Swoop has stolen my shot at glory and fame! (apologies if you asked him actually the same questions).

In all seriousness, must say Eade is fantastic with the fans. Really great to have a coach actually come up to you and want to give you information on your club and players. Has a great way of speaking to fans, as if he actually values it rather than it being a chore.

[BulldogBelle]

Great report.

Glad to see Hill and Everitt putting in the hard yards.

[divvydan]

Awesome report Swoop. I think Swoop must have been sitting in front of me! Wearing a red shirt? Rocket came up to me after remembering a previous encounter and asked if I am any queries on players. I think Swoop has stolen my shot at glory and fame! (apologies if you asked him actually the same questions).

In all seriousness, must say Eade is fantastic with the fans. Really great to have a coach actually come up to you and want to give you information on your club and players. Has a great way of speaking to fans, as if he actually values it rather than it being a chore.

No, that was me, hope I wasn't blocking the view :o

Saw Rocket chatting to someone behind me, which I assume was you and then the people next to you, did you ask about any of;

Ward, Cooney, Gilbee, Harbow or Markovic?

Didn't actually hear what was asked/said, hearing isn't my best asset.

Only got a couple of things to add to Swoop's great report.

Grant was inside on the bikes.
Prato hurt his shoulder slightly that's why he was in the rehab group.
Heard Minson had too much Iodine in this system, not fibre.
Stack had a calf complaint.
The group that sat out near the end, Harbrow, Stack, Thorne and Ward also didn't do the full ground drill (although Thorne may have and I just lost sight of him)
After all the skills, they came back out for running, Ward ran in what I call the 'elite' group alonside Cross,Boyd, Griffen, Gia, Picken, Everitt, Wood, Daniels and maybe a couple of others which slip my mind....Addison I think, maybe someone else too
Wood, Picken and Roughead all wore yellow vests in the match simulation, which I believe is a 'do not tackle' thing. All three had shoulder work done in the offseason, so that makes sense.

[dogman]

I went down today, not much more I can add but was really impressed by Panos. He's a great size and doesn't look out of place with the bigger boys. To me looks bigger already then Grant, Boumann and Jones. He looked really enthusiastic too, which was great. Looks like a real steal to me. Looking forward to watching him play in the VFL this year and hopefully making an impression on the AFL next year once he gets some more confidence.

Everitt and Murphy looked bigger to me across the chest and shoulders too. I expect big years from both.

[Mantis]

After all the skills, they came back out for running, Ward ran in what I call the 'elite' group alonside Cross,Boyd, Griffen, Gia, Picken, Everitt, Wood, Daniels and maybe a couple of others which slip my mind....Addison I think, maybe someone else too


Last year Everitt was labouring with the 'plonkers' in the running drills (might have had something do with his glandular fever in fairness). Great to hear he is now really pushing himself.

Thanks to all the posters who have written up reports... Job well done.

[Bomberdog]

I am having Monday off. Does anyone know if training is on Monday?

[divvydan]

I believe it's meant to be. The lady I was talking to said 'see you Monday' to some of the other people there so she certainly believes it is and as far as I'm concerned, she knows everything (seems to anyway).

[Rocco Jones]

No, that was me, hope I wasn't blocking the view :o

Saw Rocket chatting to someone behind me, which I assume was you and then the people next to you, did you ask about any of;

Ward, Cooney, Gilbee, Harbow or Markovic?


Yep that was me. You definitely weren't blocking my view mate!

The only info I got was covered by Swoop (who is truly living up to his name!).:)

I must also back up Swoops comments on Everitt and Hill's impressive workrate. Dre in particular was working his arse off, very intense in a handball game they played.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Great reports, guys.

Very good signs that Everitt, Wood and Hill are training well. All could have serious impact starting this year.

[lemmon]

With regards to the match simulation virtually everyone was playing the through the midfield. It was very one sided so the blue teams forward 50 was empty for large portions of the game with Jones being left alone for parts as well. Likewise with the red team besides the key forwards in Hahn & Hall who were based in the F50 everyone else pushed up the ground even the flankers in Higgins, Aka, Johnno & Murphy.

I'm sorry I can't recall who he was matched up on.

No problem mate, thanks a lot

[Happy Days]

Thanks to Swoop and others for their reports, top stuff.

[LostDoggy]

Great stuff Swoop:) Good to hear some of the young guns on fire and possibly putting the senior group under pressure! Hows big Mulligan going and are they still playing Boumann in the backline?

[samr]

really glad to hear that everitt is fit and has the fire in the belly. He has the body for afl now, so it should be the year that he cements his spot in the 22.

[Swoop]

Great stuff Swoop:) Good to hear some of the young guns on fire and possibly putting the senior group under pressure! Hows big Mulligan going and are they still playing Boumann in the backline?
Mulligan really has no excuses as he enters this season, physically he is developed and the club has shown generous faith by upgrading him to the senior list, if he can't perform in 2010 for Williamstown on a consistent basis he never will.

I admit he does face stiff competition for spots at Williamstown with both Markovic & Faulks most likely to be preferred options ahead of him as defenders however I strongly believe that if he is good enough than he will earn an opportunity and maintain his spot in the side, it's up to him.

To answer your question physically Mulligan appears to be traveling well in fact he is actually quite developed physically and appears to be a good height and weight. As for Boumann, yes he was still be played as a defender, in the match simulation he was paired up against Panos but neither saw much of the ball.

[Go_Dogs]

Thanks for the reports Swoop, divvydan and others, great reading.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

I went along to training today and while I won't get into specifics, I'll give a brief overview of the things that stood out. They mainly did a lot of competitive work today. Forwards/defenders working together and midfield/rucks separately. Plenty of one on one contests and a heap of running. They did some match simulation too but it was pretty difficult to tell who was who. Higgins must have twinged his hamstring as he grabbed it and walked off the track but it didn't appear a serious one. Hudson and Hall hobbled off but apparently they're OK and I didn't see Williams train. He was talking to a couple of guys early in the session and then walked off and wasn't sighted again. Hopefully he's alright. Eagleton walked around a bit whilst Thorne and Tiller only ran laps. Minson did a bit of short running and joined in the midfielder/ruck drill probably halfway through. Cordy ditto who also did mostly running. Anyway;

* Murphy looks very, very sharp. Moved the best I've seen him in a couple of years. Burnt his opponents on the lead every time in match simulation and various other competitive drills. Made a few warming passes to Hall too. He was the standout for mine.

* Cooney looks in great shape. He got a lot of the ball in all the drills, had composure, good skills and looked fit and strong. Much like Murphy, it was good to see him up and about after having an injury ravaged season in '09.

* Morris really is a human glove. In some one on one contest drills he was paired with Stack. Amazing closing speed, Stacky tried but he really couldn't get more than a foot away from Dale. One of the spoils Morris almost knocked the ball into the stands. He works extremely hard.

* Johnson is super fit and a real professional. Didn't do the last couple of lengthy drills but he looked good in the match simulation. Got plenty of the ball, worked hard all over the ground, was constantly barking instructions and hit his targets by foot. Akermanis is no different and I believe he trained the entire session. His foot skills into the wind are sublime and he's looking in good shape.

* Hall didn't complete the session either, but he's an impressive unit. He really leads fast and strong, absolutely demanding the ball be kicked to him. The sheer presence he brings is amazing. He knows when and where to lead, got on the end of a couple of good passes which excited a few of the people around me. Looks sharp, worked hard up the ground chasing. It's surreal seeing both Hall and Aker in a Bulldogs top!

* Wood is going to be a player. I was very, very impressed with him and I think he was the next standout after Murph for mine. In the match simulation he took a couple of big strong grabs in a pack where his leap really stood out over the surrounding players. Looks in good shape, he's fit and even did some running after every other player had finished. The way he continues to improve his game is amazing. He was supposed to be a bit of a project type but he's coming on rapidly IMO. It won't be easy for him to break into the side this year but he's going to play games and more importantly, he's going to be a quality player. In the one on one contests he was Dale Morris like. Worked his opponent over hard, gave 110% and mad esome nice spoils when he played the defensive role.

* Grant looked OK today I thought. Didn't star and some may not of really noticed him, but I think the signs are good. He took a very strong grab in the match simulation when he was seemingly out of position and had to treck back a couple of steps under real pressure. In the other drills, he took some good marks and really showed his pace against Lake in the one on one's. His shoulders look a little broader and his legs have got stronger too. Still a year away from beginning to make an impact at AFL level, but he's on the right track. His kicking was solid today too.

* First time I've seen Liam Jones in any kind of full training/competitive work. Pretty impressed. His fitness obviously needs work but he didn't look completely out of place to the extent he and Grant were last year. He's very tall and whilst there's still plenty of muscle development left, he isn't a bean pole either. In some defender/forward marking contests, he positioned himself well and took a couple. In the match simulation he looked solid in a few passages of play. Even worked up to the wing at times to help create a mark/goal for Grant. I was surprised by his speed and he's pretty agile. Still going to be a few years off making his mark but as others have said, he looks quality.

* Prato is an interesting player and although what I saw was limited, he definitely looks worthy of a rookie selection. He's very tall and lean, the typical 'athlete' body and looks like he could run for hours on end. His skills weren't great but they weren't horrible either. He ran to space and got the ball a couple of times in both the match simulation and the midfielders/rucks drill. His tapwork was quite good too for somebody with little experience. He won a few when I was watching, probably purely because of his leap. He's one worth keeping an eye on when the footy starts.

* Boumann showed some good signs and is very quick, Addison got a bit of the ball and did OK, Tutt is quick and has tidy foot skills, Harbrow's got plenty of confidence to kick both left and right. Roughead continues to show positive signs as well with some nice marks and deft taps. Oh and before I forget - Brodie Moles looks a likely type too. It took me a while to figure out who he was but he did some nice things and his foot skills were tidy.

The NAB Cup will be very interesting as a number of fringe, young, mature and new players will look to cement a spot in the best 22. I hope our core of senior players are rested so that we can get a good look at a number of the guys running around today, of whom we haven't seen a whole lot from.

[LostDoggy]

Great report, thanks

[chef]

Great report, thanks

Ditto, Thanks The Bulldogs Bite.

[lemmon]

Just quickly did you notice if Ayce was out there?

[ronmcd]

Commendations 'Bulldogs Bite.' This is an excellent training coverage - thank you!! Thought about a job in journalism ??

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Just quickly did you notice if Ayce was out there?

He ran a couple of laps and eventually joined in briefly with the midfielders/ruck drill. After that he did some basic kicking with one of the trainers so it certainly wasn't a demanding session for Ayce.


Commendations 'Bulldogs Bite.' This is an excellent training coverage - thank you!! Thought about a job in journalism ??

Thanks.

I'm currently studying Public Relations and completed my Journalism subject last year. :D

[Remi Moses]

Great report BB puts some of the tabloid Dogs bollox [pardon the pun] crap journalism we endure in the current climate to shame:eek:

[Swoop]

Great work BB, it's great to hear Wood continues to develop and impress, one to watch

[Mantis]

* Wood is going to be a player. I was very, very impressed with him and I think he was the next standout after Murph for mine. In the match simulation he took a couple of big strong grabs in a pack where his leap really stood out over the surrounding players. Looks in good shape, he's fit and even did some running after every other player had finished. The way he continues to improve his game is amazing. He was supposed to be a bit of a project type but he's coming on rapidly IMO. It won't be easy for him to break into the side this year but he's going to play games and more importantly, he's going to be a quality player. In the one on one contests he was Dale Morris like. Worked his opponent over hard, gave 110% and mad esome nice spoils when he played the defensive role.


Thanks for the report TBB, good work.

On Wood the knock that has been on him in the past was his kicking, does it look to have improved?

[Go_Dogs]

Love your work TBB, thanks a lot for the detailed reports. We've been very spoilt this pre-season!

[mjp]

I
* First time I've seen Liam Jones in any kind of full training/competitive work. Pretty impressed. His fitness obviously needs work but he didn't look completely out of place to the extent he and Grant were last year.

Lots and lots of happy words being used to describe Jones.

If he has the ability we think he does, I believe he needs to plays some footy this year - get him in for 4-5 games so he has a true understanding of what is required moving into 2011.

Our forward line is very, very (very, very, very, very!) old and we need to start integrating the next generation into the side.

[Dazza]

Thanks a heap bulldogs bite. Enjoyed thoroughly.

Some real positive signs for the younger generation of dogs there.

[Bulldog Revolution]

I believe he needs to plays some footy this year - get him in for 4-5 games so he has a true understanding of what is required moving into 2011.

Our forward line is very, very (very, very, very, very!) old and we need to start integrating the next generation into the side.

Or forward line is ancient - and may fossilise before our eyes - you'll get no arguments from me

If Grant was only capable of playing 1 game in 2009 how realistic is 4-5 games for Jones in 2010 when the group will be geared up to win a premiership?

[LostDoggy]

Great report, BB!! was going to put up a post myself but in comparison, it would look like the ramblings of a syntactical aphasia sufferer.:o;):rolleyes:
Do agree with you on Prato. Fit as!!

[KT31]

Thanks BB.
Having done the big move, these reports are all I have keeping me up to date.
Great report and please keep them coming.

[mjp]

Or forward line is ancient - and may fossilise before our eyes - you'll get no arguments from me

If Grant was only capable of playing 1 game in 2009 how realistic is 4-5 games for Jones in 2010 when the group will be geared up to win a premiership?

Maybe because Jones is showing more than Grant is and if he plays might not be quite the same liability? I don't know but I hope we can figure it out. We need to get a handful of games into these guys before we ask them to carry the side.

[azabob]

Maybe because Jones is showing more than Grant is and if he plays might not be quite the same liability? I don't know but I hope we can figure it out. We need to get a handful of games into these guys before we ask them to carry the side.

Your a quite right mjp. We need to be certain they have the ability to play at the highest level. That group of guys include Roughead, Jones, Stack, Wood, Boumann, Cordy. Everitt and Ried.

I've become quite use to the fact everytime the team runs out onto the ground they are expected to either win or be in the contest right up to the final siren.

mjp do you find it is also a fine balancing act with your team (bringing in new players to replace the players who will be overage by years end) or due the age of all the players its not so relevant?

[mjp]

mjp do you find it is also a fine balancing act with your team (bringing in new players to replace the players who will be overage by years end) or due the age of all the players its not so relevant?

Not so much a balancing act as something you have to do.

The issue I have at the moment is the 16's teams from the past two years have won 3 games out of 10 and last years squad had only one state rep (the year before had 2)...so we are in a little bit of a void at the moment (or rather, late last year we were in a bit of a void in terms of identifying players to come through).

From my GF side from last year, I had 11 players available for this season - which is good. Unfortunately 3 of those - Blayne Wilson, Harley Bennell and Keiran Butcher - will almost certainly play seniors for most of the year (though with Blayne and Harley in the AIS program and all 3 on state 18's duty they will miss a fair bit of club footy in any case). So that leaves 8...and of those 8, only maybe 4 could be considered players you could build around...

There are another 9 players (turning 18 this year) who I got at least 2 games into last year part of the 'new' squad which I guess is good...we will find out this year if they are good enough. What I wish I did was get a couple of games into 3 or 4 of last years 16yo's /this years 17yo's as I normally try too - form and performances be damned. The reason is no matter what you tell someone, until they experience it for themselves they really dont understand what is required...playing in two games one season - even with limited minutes - is worth its weight in gold. The players attack the pre-season/game-sense drills in particular with purpose rather than going through the motions (although they 'think' they are trying!) and when the games start they are ready to go rather than spending the first month figuring things out before getting dropped and trying again a month later.

My point is that if we want Jones and Grant to play meaningful roles for us in 2011, we have to give them some game time this year...

[LostDoggy]

Here is a link to a few pics from yesterday. Didn't get many action shots, too busy daydreaming about Doggie domination.:o

http://s995.photobucket.com/albums/af72/DaDruid_photos/training%20pics%20Jan29/

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Thanks for the report TBB, good work.

On Wood the knock that has been on him in the past was his kicking, does it look to have improved?

It was a little difficult to tell as he never really had to kick under serious pressure. In the match simulation there'd usually be a target free as soon as you got the ball, particularly in the back half which is where he played. His technique looked OK but I'd reserve judgement until he has to run with the ball under pressure and then deliver to a moving target.

He really does look a lot more confident though, so I wouldn't be surprised if his kicking improves over the season.

[w3design]

Terrific report TBB, congratulations. I also watched the session and am very much in accord with what you wrote.
To me the two players that absolutely stood out were Murf. and Woodsy. Murf was in absolutely awesome form, and I think he pretty much went unbeaten in every contested situation. If he can take that type of condition [physical] and form into the season, he will likely have his best year ever [yet].
Woods is pretty clearly the most rapidly improving of the young brigade, and might well do a Harbrow09 for us this year, his pace and leap are stunning.
You and MJP were both positive re the Jones boy [hooray], I still see him as the key to our F50 going forward, and believe he could be our answer to CHF for a decade with a bit of luck, and a lot of hard work. However, he is still a growing kid, who is growing into both his body, and his skills. I would love to see him establish himself as auto first choice for CHF at Willy this season, and get used to playing on hard seasoned adult bodies week in and week out. If he does that well, one or two senior games late season would be good for him, and an impressive outcome for a kid who was playing school footy as a tall only a few months back. I would think 4-5 games might be more than we could reasonably expect from a kid [ and more than might be good for his body at this stage] in 2010.
Grant minor. Yesterday he displayed the lovely soft hands [ marking], and in set shot goal kicking drill kicked beautifully, and with both, displayed the talents we were told he posessed when drafted so high. The lad is still very much a work in progress, but it is great to see some thing from him. Seems we may just need to be very patient.
Injuries aside our F50 should be very hard to break into this season, but by 2012 it will bear precious little similarity to how it lines up this season, so the kids just need to work their collective butts off at Willy this year, and put their names at the very top of the replacment list, espscially the taller kids.

[w3design]

As a post script to the bit above. Woods had the kick in duties [designated kicker] during the match simulation, and did pretty well.

[ratsmac]

Great reports fellas. I was just wondering how Griffen is looking. I know this time last year he was a standout in the intra club match for mine. No one has mentioned him so I spose no news is good news. How was Reid going also? I would like to see him cement his spot in the best 22 this year, there is something about this one that I really like. Anyways, 13 more sleeps till we see the boys in action again.


(Sorry just read that Reid is still in rehab :-( my bad.)

[divvydan]

Anyone know if training tomorrow is going to be a full session with all listed players? Last Monday was only young players and with the intraclub on Saturday I'm unsure if this week's training will be a full load or not.

[LostDoggy]

Also have not heard much about Gilbee, just wondering how he is traveling?

[stefoid]

Question - is wood a defender only? Our back 5 (leaving out CHB) is very solid. How is he going to break into the side, except from injury? I suppose if Williams/Marcovic arent playing at CHB, we will pinch hit CHB with Morris / Hargreave and then we need another defender on a flank?

[GVGjr]

Question - is wood a defender only? Our back 5 (leaving out CHB) is very solid. How is he going to break into the side, except from injury? I suppose if Williams/Marcovic arent playing at CHB, we will pinch hit CHB with Morris / Hargreave and then we need another defender on a flank?

Could play in a variety of positions but not the true centre square midfield in my opinion. To me he is best suited to a half back or wing role.

[ratsmac]

I just read that Sam Reid has type 1 diabetes. I feel for him cos its a life changing condition. My dad has diabetes and he had to even give up drinking beer, I know beer, could life get any worse. Oh well it seems he is in good spirits so hopefully he will manage it ok. I don't know how this could affect him as an athlete, but surely there are plenty of athetes that can still perform with diabetes. Does anyone know of any?

[LostDoggy]

I just read that Sam Reid has type 1 diabetes. I feel for him cos its a life changing condition. My dad has diabetes and he had to even give up drinking beer, I know beer, could life get any worse. Oh well it seems he is in good spirits so hopefully he will manage it ok. I don't know how this could affect him as an athlete, but surely there are plenty of athetes that can still perform with diabetes. Does anyone know of any?

Nigel Bassett and Dale Weightman were both type I. Both half decent players with long careers.

[LostDoggy]

Nigel Bassett and Dale Weightman were both type I. Both half decent players with long careers.

Nathan

[Dogs 24/7]

With the practice game on this weekend will there still be some training I could go and have a look at this week?

[LostDoggy]

Who's getting down there on Sat morning?

[The Coon Dog]

Who's getting down there on Sat morning?
Who isn't?

Intra Club Practice Match - 6 Feb (http://www.woof.net.au/forum/showthread.php?t=6796)

[Mofra]

If he has the ability we think he does, I believe he needs to plays some footy this year - get him in for 4-5 games so he has a true understanding of what is required moving into 2011.

Our forward line is very, very (very, very, very, very!) old and we need to start integrating the next generation into the side.
Given the age of our forwardline anyway, it may be worth resting them on some interstate trips anyway which would give the young guys a chance. Hill's debut wasn't warranted on form and it helped his next pre-season; Stack seemed a much more confidant player at Willy after his debut.

[LostDoggy]

Given the age of our forwardline anyway, it may be worth resting them on some interstate trips anyway which would give the young guys a chance. Hill's debut wasn't warranted on form and it helped his next pre-season; Stack seemed a much more confidant player at Willy after his debut.

Totally agree Mofra. It would certainly strengthen the depth of the squad which imo could have been the difference last year.

[Dogs 24/7]

Wednesday morning, say 9.30am would be your best bet. Only a small session on Friday.

Meant to say thanks TCD. Do you know if it's the same this week? As luck would have it I have Wednesday morning off and providing the club is training that day Id love to venture along.

[The Coon Dog]

Meant to say thanks TCD. Do you know if it's the same this week? As luck would have it I have Wednesday morning off and providing the club is training that day Id love to venture along.

Wednesday 9-10am speed/agility. 10.15-11.15am skills.

No training at the WO on Friday as the club will be in Canberra on its community Camp.

[Bulldog Revolution]

No training at the WO on Friday as the club will be in Canberra on its community Camp.

Is that code for they'll be donning the red speedos for photos with the mad monk?

[Twodogs]

Is that code for they'll be donning the red speedos for photos with the mad monk?


They might be. I think that parliaments sitting next week.

[GVGjr]

Went along to the training session this morning and caught up with a couple of WOOF regulars.

Players were split into a few groups.

The first group out mainly did some running and from what I could see it contained Hall, Mulligan (his shadow), Tutt, Markovic, Panos, Williams, Akermanis, Hargrave, Thorne, Cordy and I think Reid and Minson joined from time to time.

The larger group followed them out doing drills before being split in midfield, backline and forward groups.

Peter Dean spent a significant amount of time working with Tom Williams mainly about how to position himself with his marking. Just watching that was worthy of standing in the heat.

The midfield group under Cameron's watchful eye worked on centre square clearances. Cooney copped one low during one of the drills and was out of action for a couple of minutes. Giansiracusa looked particularly sharp.

Paul Williams had the forward doing some goal kicking drills and it still annoys me to see players taking there time for set shots with nobody on the mark. Young Jones was dobbing them in from 50 but struggled when Aker made a couple of token gestures of being on the mark. Even Cross was putting them through from 50 (perhaps the operations have worked) but then struggled when occasionally someone stood near where the mark should have been.

Harbrow moved freely, Stack looks in ripping condition and Boumann showed glimpses of his undeniable talent. Minson joined in some of the work and despite looking a bit underdone he moved very well. I'd say the toe injury isn't bothering him as much now.

Howard and Eagleton spent a bit of time with some hand balling drills.

[Go_Dogs]

Peter Dean spent a significant amount of time working with Tom Williams mainly about how to position himself with his marking. Just watching that was worthy of standing in the heat.

Giansiracusa looked particularly sharp.

Even Cross was putting them through from 50 (perhaps the operations have worked) but then struggled when occasionally someone stood near where the mark should have been.

Thanks for the report GVGjr, love your work.

I wonder if C Grant has also been involved on working with Tom Williams on his body positioning? This is obviously something he needs the most work on mainly due to his lack of experience. Glad to hear it's being worked on.

Also great to hear Gia was involved in some centre square work. I actually think he has about the sharpest set of hands in our group, and together with his endurance and lack of genuine leg speed, it's a role I'd like to see him play more frequently in 2010.

And Crossy kicking goals from 50? That would have to have been seen to be believed!



Just as an interesting tidbit - I noticed on a Crows training thread, that they were running an indoor handball drill in the gym (no dropping the ball, keepings off - with the aim to handball to a coach inside a goal at either end) and whilst this was going on, they had loud crowd noises blaring through the speakers. I thought this was pretty interesting as it really helps the players identify each others voice over loud noises and simulates perhaps what it might be like during the finals atmosphere.

[Swoop]

The Crows are always experimenting and trying to replicate match conditions, I recall reading an article last year where they actually stopped mid way through training went into the rooms and than came back out in an attempt to replicate coming back out after half time and again they had the crowd noises blaring over the speakers. Who knows how much it actually helps but I like the fact that they're always looking to push the boundaries and try something new in order to get an edge on the competition.

[LostDoggy]

Paul Williams had the forward doing some goal kicking drills and it still annoys me to see players taking there time for set shots with nobody on the mark. Young Jones was dobbing them in from 50 but struggled when Aker made a couple of token gesture of being on the mark. Even Cross was putting them through from 50 (perhaps the operations have worked) but then struggled when occasionally someone stood near where the mark should have been.

.

Its not all that hard to provide someone to stand on the mark - Williams could do it. And they could even ask you, GVGjr.

Why it would actually disrupt the player with the ball is beyond me because all he should be looking at in the final few steps as he runs is the ball itself.

But it always disrupts some, no doubt about it.

[LostDoggy]

Any news on who is playing nab cup GVGjr? Is Hall a chance to play? Heard Rocket say in an interview thats Jones will play!

[The Coon Dog]

Any news on who is playing nab cup GVGjr? Is Hall a chance to play? Heard Rocket say in an interview thats Jones will play!

Now I know why comrade's really going to Canberra, ah Valentine's Day. Hope your significant other doesn't get too jealous. ;)

[GVGjr]

Its not all that hard to provide someone to stand on the mark - Williams could do it. And they could even ask you, GVGjr.

Why it would actually disrupt the player with the ball is beyond me because all he should be looking at in the final few steps as he runs is the ball itself.

But it always disrupts some, no doubt about it.

To me there is a very big difference between set shots and field kicking. With nobody on the mark it allows the kicker to drop the ball lower and it's a vastly different approach whilst running in before the kick. A lot of our players are better kicks for goal on the run than they are from set shots and I think the training has a lot to do with it.

Rarely does anyone have a set shot for goal in a game without someone being on the mark and yet in training it's rare to find someone on the mark when they are practicing that skill.

Perhaps mjp could enlighten us more.

[GVGjr]

Any news on who is playing nab cup GVGjr? Is Hall a chance to play? Heard Rocket say in an interview thats Jones will play!


I didn't want to ask because I know team selection is something they like to keep quiet. Having said that I think the team you named on another thread might be close to the mark.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Thanks for the report GVGjr.

Definitely agree with your observation on players kicking over a mark. It strikes me as very odd that it's not mandatory. Not hard to enforce, you pair up with someone and take a number of shots each. Swap over so that they both get to practice with somebody jumping up and down on the mark.

[Mofra]

To me there is a very big difference between set shots and field kicking. With nobody on the mark it allows the kicker to drop the ball lower and it's a vastly different approach whilst running in before the kick. A lot of our players are better kicks for goal on the run than they are from set shots and I think the training has a lot to do with it.

Johnno has a tendancy to get too close to the man on the mark - he is forced to kick the ball on a higher trajectory which effects the accuracy. His two shots close to/after the siren have both been effected by the same thing. This would seem to be a reasonable link to why.