The strength of the McDonald's Ballarat FNL was on full display at the 2021 NAB AFL Draft, with local talent heading to Richmond, Essendon and North Melbourne.

With five players being drafted - yes, we are clear and proud to claim you too, Paul Curtis - two in the first round, the league congratulates the players, their families and home clubs for the many hours and years of hard work to reach this point. 

BFNL talent drafted and likely to have a long and successful career at the highest level were:

 Pick #9

• Josh Gibcus (East Point FNC)  -  drafted to Richmond FC

Pick #20

• Kai Lohmann (Lake Wendouree FNC)  -  drafted to Brisbane Lions FC

Pick #22

• Josh Goater (Sunbury FNC)  -  drafted to North Melbourne FC

Pick #23

• Sam Butler (Lake Wendouree FNC)  -  drafted to Hawthorn FC

Pick #35

• Paul Curtis (Melton South FNC) - drafted to North Melbourne FC

AFL Goldfields in conjunction with the Western Bulldogs FC are offering a coach education Session.

Details:

Date: Thursday 23rd February
Venue: Saxon House - 1431 Mair Street Ballarat
Time: 6.30pm
Registration link:

PRESENTERS:

Jamie Maddocks joined the Bulldogs' coaching panel at the end of 2015.
Maddocks has been heavily involved in the player development space, after honing his coaching craft at state underage level and in the TAC Cup (now NAB League).

From 2015-19, Maddocks was the Bulldogs' development coach and opposition analyst.

He was promoted to the role of development manager ahead of the 2020 season.

Maddocks coached at the Oakleigh Chargers (2011-13) and Dandenong Stingrays (2008-10) in the TAC Cup and was involved in a premiership with the Chargers in 2012.

Brendan Lade has joined the Bulldogs as an assistant coach in 2023. A former Port Adelaide best and fairest and two-time All Australian, Lade played 234 games for the Power, winning a premiership in 2004.

The 46-year-old began his coaching journey in 2010 immediately following his retirement, joining Richmond as an assistant coach alongside former teammate Damien Hardwick.

After seven seasons at the Tigers, Lade returned to Port Adelaide for a further two seasons, taking the reins as an assistant coach at Alberton.

In 2019, Lade was appointed as a Senior Assistant at the St Kilda Football Club, relocating his family back to Melbourne and coaching the forward and midfield lines across two seasons.

Marc Webb came to the Bulldogs in 2022 after stints coaching in the WAFL with Claremont FC, at Fremantle FC and with up-and-coming stars in WA. He was at Fremantle for seven years in a variety of roles as midfield coach before taking on head of development. Webb spent 2021 at the WA Football Commission coaching the State U19s.

This week we saw the announcement from the elite game of its planned roadmap to Return to Play. We are now in a position to be able to share more definitive plans in terms of what this means for community football in Victoria.

Returning to play in a safe, hygienic and controlled manner is paramount to the AFL. The safety and wellbeing of our participants is our number one priority. As such, our return to play strategy has been focused on ensuring we have the clear endorsement of State Government and public health officials at every phase of return.

Each State Government is responsible for determining what level Australian football is in their State and approving when we can transition into the next stage.

Following Victorian Government advice around the return of community sport this week, AFL Victoria will release its return to train protocols early next week and is endorsing a return to club sanctioned training from Monday, May 25.

This timing will provide the opportunity to communicate our protocols with Leagues and allow volunteers and clubs time to digest the protocols, go through an education period and prepare themselves ahead of returning to club sanctioned training.

In summary, the return to train protocols for community football in Victoria will enable:

• Training to resume in groups of up to 10 people. The group of 10 does not include a coach or the minimum number of support staff who are reasonably required to manage the activity.
• Two groups of 10 can utilise the same oval provided they do not operate closely together, and the oval is split into two zones.

We will continue to work with the State Government to ensure alignment with their advice, and in the event of further easing of restrictions, we hope to be able to return to full training and competition later in the year, with hygiene and safety protocols firmly in place.

Our primary focus is preparing to return to train in a safe environment in a well prepared and educated manner. In order for this return to play to be successful, and in line with Government advice, it is essential that clubs and individuals work within the timelines and protocols and do not move ahead of the level and restrictions in place.

On Friday, 15 May, the AFL re-opened transfers until 30 June. Further information about transfers will be provided via a comprehensive FAQ document.

In addition, an important part of this return to play process is the requirement of each Club to appoint a COVID Safety Officer that is responsible for ensuring these protocols are adhered to and participants can return to a prepared and safe environment.

We strongly recommend all participants immediately download the COVID-SAFE App, to ensure we can quickly trace and manage any outbreaks in the community. We all have an important role to play in ensuring that not only football returns, but that Australia returns safely towards a normal way of life.

We understand this announcement will raise many questions for Club officials, players, parents/guardians and volunteers. As such, the AFL has prepared a set of FAQs that hopefully address most of these questions. We will continue to update these as the situation progresses and our return to train protocols are released.

We will also be providing a suite of educational resources and COVID safety posters that can be downloaded from www.afl.com.au/clubhelp.

Thank you for your patience and understanding, and we look forward with cautious optimism towards returning to training as a first step.

Get excited local footy fans, starting from this weekend every match from every round of the McDonald’s Ballarat Senior Men’s competition will be streamed live and free via Cluch.tv.

You can find the McDonald's Ballarat FNL page on Cluch here: McDonald's Ballarat FNL live in Cluch

You can watch live and on-demand on all connected devices and screens. Simply go to cluch.tv or find the stream links via BFNL.com.au or the Ballarat FNL Facebook page. Stream it to the big screen, track the scores and action across all five games, and replay the goals. Or catch up on all the action on-demand from your phone, screen or TV.

Get ready by downloading the Cluch app on your device or screen.

The McDonald’s Ballarat FNL’s streaming activity has increased significantly in recent years and the launch of full competition streaming is the next step in that journey.

We will also continue to bring you the Ballarat Toyota Match of the Round live to Facebook.

About Cluch:

Cluch is an OTT video and platform-as-a-service business dedicated to community sport. Cluch delivers premium on-demand streaming services across all connected devices and screens.

The McDonalds Ballarat FNL is pleased to announce a new 3 year deal with LoCo Sportswear.

Commencing immediately through 2023, the partnership will see LoCo Sportswear become the preferred apparel supplier to the Ballarat FNL, FootyMart Ballarat and league clubs.

Loco Sportswear was formed in 2013 after noticing a lack of suppliers in the market providing elite apparel solutions that properly catered to the unique requirements of the Australian sporting community. Our team have over 25 years’ experience in custom technical apparel at all levels; we have provided on-field solutions for many professional Australian clubs and delivered merchandise and retail programs for a host of major international events. 

Clubs choosing LoCo for the club apparel will have the added benefit of an online store where members can browse and choose their club merchandise as they need.

The league and clubs look forward to a successful partnership with LoCo as we prepare for the 2021 season.

The Ballarat Football Netball League is seeking applications to join its team in the role of Commercial Partnerships Coordinator.

· An opportunity to bring your initiative and relationship-first focus to our newly created role.

· Build your career within the sporting industry and leave your unique mark.

· Work with our Marketing Partner to achieve success.

About the role:

With Season 2024 about to kick off, we are looking for the newest member of our team.

The Partnerships Coordinator, a newly created role reporting to the Ballarat Football Netball League Chairperson and Office Manager, will be responsible for assisting in the day-to-day coordination and administration of partnerships, to deliver and support commercial objectives.

Key to success will be the proven ability to engage internal and external stakeholders, build and retain relationships, source and collate key data for reporting purposes, as well as assisting in the delivery of contractual rights and benefits for our partners.

The role will require exceptional communication and collaboration with internal staff. The ability to be a self-starter who can work at pace, juggle multiple priorities, and bring second to none organisation and time management skills will be integral for this role.

This is a great opportunity for someone to take the next step in their career.

The Partnerships Coordinator will be responsible for a number of key deliverables including, but not limited to:

· Supporting the Marketing Partner with the timely and effective delivery of contract entitlements.

· Leading with a customer-first approach to provide excellent client and stakeholder service and communication.

· Attending partner meetings with Partnership Managers to support as required.

· Regularly collating and providing key information to assist the partnerships team with post campaign, mid-season and end of season reporting.

· Working closely with events and corporate teams in delivering Club and partner events as well as hospitality and game day operations.

· Assisting the team in monitoring expenses, raising invoices and keeping the Partner Servicing Budget up to date.

· Management of the sponsorship databases, ensuring they are updated on a regular basis, optimised and fully utilised.

· Participating and supporting the partnerships team in the negotiation of sponsorship agreements and drafting of contracts.

· Managing key stakeholder relationships (internal and external) to drive full engagement and effective outcomes in delivery of the commercial strategy.

· Attending and presenting at internal meetings to provide project updates and communicate program information.

Due to the nature of this role, full availability on weekends within the BFNL season and some weeknights or after-hours work will be required.

The successful candidate will possess:

· 1-2 years minimum experience in a similar role within the commercial sales environment.

· An energetic and resilient attitude with a willingness to take on varied tasks and display initiative.

· Outstanding relationship building skills, and the ability to leverage these to achieve outcomes.

Experience in the sporting or entertainment sector will be highly regarded. Tertiary qualification in Business, Marketing or related discipline is desirable.

What we offer

· We offer a flexible work environment including being able to work from home when required.

· A competitive renumeration, Superannuation and Incentive Scheme.

· Internal Professional Development opportunities.

Application Instruction

An offer of employment in this role will require satisfactory completion of a National Police Check, and Working With Children Check.

For the opportunity to demonstrate your drive, ambition, and skills, please send your written application, including both covering letter and CV to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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INSIDER: Hi Aaron, you've committed to the club again in 2023 win, lose or draw. I see up to six other coaches are departing - how time-consuming is the role?

AARON: Oh mate, when your time is not spent working, it's spent working on footy!

INSIDER: You finished 2nd in 2018 in your first season in charge with a young group arguably ahead of time. What makes this group so coachable? 

AARON: Willingness to learn and adapt.

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable your players would expect you to write first on the whiteboard?

AARON: Compete.

INSIDER: From the outside, you're quite an even lot at the Bloods across the three lines - is there any line that stands above internally?

AARON: Well, I'm a 'defence first' coach - I often run the young blokes through there for early development. It's a good way for them to start learning the game.

INSIDER: Who has been the one opposition player that has caused you the most grief in any one game?

AARON: Matty Johnston (East Point - 2018 BFNL Grand Final)

INSIDER: What other sport could you coach at a high level if there were no footy? 

AARON: Maybe basketball 

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

AARON: Kyle Borg

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

AARON: Zac Russell

INSIDER: Who (at Melton) would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

AARON: Toss up - Braeden Kight or Ryan Carter

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

AARON: Kyle Borg

INSIDER: Who is your favourite footy person at the club?

AARON: Lachlan Walker - he's been my love child since day one and we're still together!

INSIDER: What's your favourite TV series or movie?

AARON: Breaking Bad

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely be seen eating a kebab downtown at 4am on Sunday?

AARON: Chris Jones

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish?

AARON: Bangers and Mash

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?: 

AARON: No one!

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're funnier than they really are?

AARON: Braeden Kight

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

AARON: Western Bulldogs, Liam Picken.

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other BFNL clubs to your list, who would you pick?

AARON: Tony Locker (Sebastopol - back), Brett Bewley (Darley - mid), Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh - forward)  

INSIDER: Finally, describe your opponent Sebastopol in a word?

AARON: Honest

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INSIDER: Great start to the season for the Burra with a big win over the Lakers - what did you guys do particularly well and what area do you see the greatest for improvement?

ADAM FORBES:(Did well): Pressure and trust (Room for Improvement): Four quarter output.

INSIDER: Tell us about your role and the challenges of being a small forward…

AF:(Role): I start with the pressure, love a turnover goal. (Challenges): limited opportunities to score.

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect your new coach, Tony Lockyer, to write first on the white board?

AF:Selfless acts and importance of two way running.

INSIDER: With James Keeble and Hugo Papst gone from the club, do you feel any added pressure or onus on you to kick goals?

AF:No not really. There's plenty of players to cover the losses.

INSIDER: You look like you love a goal Adam, what's been your best return over the journey?

AF:7 vs Redan for Mt Clear U/17

INSIDER: The Burra haven’t beaten the Bloods since 2019 - why should we give you a hope turning the tables this week?

AF:New coach, system approach and compliance.

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy?

AF:Ten pin bowling

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

AF:Myself!

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

AF:Toby Hutt

INSIDER: Who at Sebastopol would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

AF:Tony Lockyer

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

AF: Bailey Medwell

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

AF:Mum

INSIDER: What’s your poison (preferred drink)?

AF:VB

INSIDER: If you had to be one, which best suits you - a gamer, a commentator, or a raver?

AF:Raver!

INSIDER: In a word what will the club miss the most about James Keeble and Hugo Papst?

AF:Keeble: ball use, direction – Papst: determination and attack on the footy.

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

AF:Nachos

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

AF:Ben Hutt

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're funnier than they really are?

AF:Jed Hill

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

AF:Collingwood, Jamie Elliott

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other BFNL clubs to your list, who would you pick?

AF:Matty Johnston (East Point), Braeden Kight (Melton), Brett Bewley (Darley).

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INSIDER: While you were warm favorites heading in v Darley last week, when did you think you had the game won?

ADAM YOUNG:In the coaches box you never feel completely safe, but 10 minutes to go and a four goal lead was comforting.

INSIDER: How many players do you have at your disposal who have played senior footy this year?

AY:We have used over 50 players across both lists. 30+ at senior level.  

INSIDER: Under Aaron Tymms at Melton all three grades train the same game plan - is that the same at Sebastopol or is there a point of difference in the way your 'twos' group wants to play?

AY: It's similar at Sebastopol but we do train as a big group generally playing an aggressive brand across the three grades. We do individualize our groups to tailor a specific message when appropriate.

INSIDER: Do you think run with tagging roles are necessary at the level or should players be able to play with freedoms to push for senior selection?

AY:There's definitely talented players that are warranting more attention than others, however we back our own talent to win out but are flexible to facilitate run with roles if necessary.

INSIDER: Do you have a desire to coach at senior level?

AY:Ever since I had to retire early it's been a goal to be a senior coach but timing is everything.

INSIDER: What other sport could you coach at a high level if there were no footy?

AY:Cricket

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

AY:Jai Harvey, previous goal of the year contender says enough!

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

AY:Liam Mason. Back or forward, the kid is going to make it!

INSIDER: Who at Sebastopol would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

AY:Michael Powell - he's kicked more than 200 of them!

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

AY:Grady Snowden would say he is!

INSIDER: Who is the best trainer on the track?

AY:Brad Weightman - always gives his all and does extras.

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

AY:Mick Clark. If you're lucky enough to know Mick, you know why.

INSIDER: Who is the last person you would want to share a room with on a footy trip?

AY:Chris Jeffreys - over analyses everything.

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

AY:Butter chicken.

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

AY:Jack McNab, copied all my homework in High School!

INSIDER: Who do think is Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro’s favorite player?

AY:Mitch Baker.

INSIDER: Who do you think will win BFNL Reserves Best and Fairest count on Monday night?

AY:Matt Jukes

INSIDER: Which player would we most likely see eating a kebab downtown, 4am on a Sunday?

AY:Alister Sims loves a late night feed.

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

AY:Geelong, Matthew Scarlett.

INSIDER: Biggest threat to Sebastopol for the BFNL ‘twos’ flag?

AY:Sunbury

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INSIDER: How has new coach Dan Jordan improved your game?

ANDY:He has allowed me to take the game on, [which] gives me confidence.

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on the field that others can't?

ANDY:Will Johnson (Yaaaabbllllleettt! #big shoes...)

INSIDER: Who would you have at the club kicking for goal to win you a game after the siren?

ANDY:Trent Angwin 

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

ANDY:Mace Cousins

INSIDER: What do you think a pass mark for the club is this year?

ANDY:Everyone improving

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

ANDY:Blake Colley

INSIDER: Who is the best trainer (footballer) on the track?

ANDY:Brett Bewley

INSIDER: Who is your favourite footy person at the club?

ANDY:Lorissa Edwards

INSIDER: Who is the last person you would want to share a room with on a footy trip?

ANDY:Joel Cadman (criminal lol)!

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish?

ANDY:Chicken Breast: 20 mins, 220 degrees (at your own risk!)

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

ANDY:Luther Baker

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely be fined for driving too slow down the highway?

ANDY:Mitch Ward

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

ANDY:Western Bulldogs, Zak Butters (Bestie)

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there was no footy?

ANDY:Snowboarding

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other clubs to your list, who would you pick?

ANDY:Andrew Hooper (Ballarat), Daniel Burton (Bacchus Marsh), Matthew Brett (Darley) - I have to say, no better defender - sorry he's from Darley but I don't know many others.

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INSIDER: Congratulations on making it back to the Grand Final - do I sense a healthy rivalry developing between Darley and Redan?

ASH DAVIDSON: It's already there - very healthy - been going for years!

INSIDER: How has your club embraced the women’s program?

AD: Fantastic, one of three that has every age group - 100% buy-in

INSIDER: Is external interest in the women’s game on the rise ie crowds?

AD: Yes, but room for improvement

INSIDER: What does women's footy need to fast track its development?

AD: Administration

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect you to write first on the white board?  

AD: Team first

INSIDER: Who is the most under rated player at the club?

AD: Ingrid Duffy

INSIDER: What other sport could you coach at a high level if there were no footy?

AD: Tennis

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

AD: Ellen Werts

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

AD: Freya Palmer

INSIDER: Who would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

AD: Ellen Werts

INSIDER: Who is the quickest in the team over 20m?

AD: Molly

INSIDER: What is your favourite ground to play on away from home?

AD: Eastern Oval, hopefully!

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

AD: Steve Russell (trainer)

INSIDER: Describe your coaching experience in 5 words or less?

AD: Different every day!

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

AD: Roast Pork

INSIDER: What tv series would you recommend for us this Spring?

AD: Mash!

INSIDER: Invite 3 of your favorite celebs to dinner - take your pick?

AD: Leigh Matthews, Michael Jordan, Donald Trump

INSIDER: Who from the playing group would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

AD: Nicola Clark

INSIDER: Do any of the girls have annoying habits or superstitions they repeat before matches?

AD: Not that I’m aware of

INSIDER: Who is your team’s number one fan?

AD: Brian Ryan

INSIDER: Favorite AFLW club and player?

AD: Hawthorn, Jasmine Fleming

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INSIDER:What do you attribute most to your (personal) exceptional start to the season?

ASHLEY:Good teammates

INSIDER:What expectations does the group have on how far they can go in 2021?

ASHLEY:If we stick to our processes, results will take care of themselves.

INSIDER:Who would you have at the club kicking for goal to win you a game after the siren?

ASHLEY:Geoff Hunter

INSIDER:Tell us about Josh Rensch, Best on Ground last week, 17-year-old on debut...

ASHLEY:Pretty lucky to have him at the moment, he’s a special talent, gun - one of four from the Rebels.

INSIDER:If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish?

ASHLEY:Toast, simple bunch, LOL.

INSIDER:Favourite AFL Club and player?

ASHLEY:Collingwood, John Noble

INSIDER:Who at the club is really not as funny as he thinks he is?

ASHLEY:There's plenty, but I'll go with Callum McKay.

INSIDER:What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy?

ASHLEY:Ping pong

INSIDER:Who wins the 2km time trial at Lakers?

ASHLEY:Lachie Dodd or Jessie McLean

INSIDER:Which Lakers player would be the best chance to win a million dollars on a quiz show?

ASHLEY:Nick Rippon

INSIDER:What TV show did you binge-watch during COVID?

ASHLEY:The Office (UK)

INSIDER:If you could add any forward, mid and back to your side from within the BFNL, who would you take? Name one of each.

ASHLEY:'Vintage' Bryce McDougall (East Point forward), Lachie Cassidy (Sebastopol), Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)

INSIDER:Does the club expect to see former Western Bulldog Fergus Greene play this season, given his affiliation with Box Hill?

ASHLEY:Yes, well, he's keen. But his VFL form is very good at the moment.

INSIDER:Give us your flag tip (outside Lakers) and your Hendo tip for 2021...

ASHLEY:Sebastopol and Lachie Cassidy

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INSIDER: What do you attribute most to your (personal) exceptional start to the season?

BLAKE: The coach Dan Roy. He allows to me explore my strengths with a license play my own game. Dan's been a massive influence for me on the back of a solid, albeit lengthy pre-season.

INSIDER: What expectations does the group have on how far the Devils can go in 2021?

BLAKE: Early days but naturally finals. Our focus is on development but injuries aren't helping at the moment.

INSIDER: Who would you have at the club kicking for goal to win you a game after the siren?

BLAKE: Shane Page, proven.

INSIDER: Who would you least prefer to share a room with on a footy trip away?

BLAKE: Harley Inglis or Mitch Ward - too much energy!

INSIDER: Tell us about Matthew Brett and Ryan Kemp...

BLAKE: Class above, you can tell they've come from a higher level

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

BLAKE: Toasted sandwich

INSIDER: Favorite AFL Club and player?

BLAKE: Hawthorn, Marcus Bontempelli.

INSIDER: Who at the club is really not as funny as he thinks he is?

BLAKE: Corey Cullen

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy?

BLAKE: Athletics, Cross Country running

INSIDER: Who wins the 2km time trial at Darley?

BLAKE: Adam or Andy Azzopardi or Jack Bewley

INSIDER: Which Darley player would be the best chance to win a million dollars on a quiz show?

BLAKE: Tom Evans

INSIDER: Who would you rate as the best team you've played this year?

BLAKE: Melton

INSIDER: If you could add any forward, mid and back to your side from within the BFNL who would you take - name one of each.....

BLAKE: Braeden Kight (Melton), Daniel Burton (Bacchus Marsh), Josh Gibson (Ballarat)

INSIDER: Which of the other Devils youngsters do you think has the greatest scope?

BLAKE: Joel Cadman

INSIDER: Give us your flag tip (outside Lakers) and Hendo tip for 2021....

BLAKE: Too hard to tell for flag. Hendo - Nick Stuhldrier (Bacchus Marsh)

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INSIDER: Rate the Lakers season so far compared to last year? What's different?

BRAYDEN HELYAR:A bit more identity/vision this year. The vibe is up on last year.

INSIDER: Tell us about tall dual combo Tom Zampatti and Felix Fogarty?

BH:Zampatti - fitted in really well. Back from ACL. 100% effort. Fogarty - could be one of the best future players in the league.

INSIDER: What do you think the Lakers need to start challenging for a top six position?

BH:Another star player, probably an A-grade midfielder and to continue the internal growth.

INSIDER: Who wins the Lakers’ family Olympics? The O’Connell’s or Helyer’s?

BH:Definitely Helyer’s.

INSIDER: Recruit Jaydo Wright had a frustrating start to his Lakers move. How's he tracking after a couple of return games?

BH:Starting to come into his own now with more confidence in the ankle. More to come, watch this space for Jaydo!

INSIDER: Bailey Thompson has kicked 30% (16/54) of all Lakers goals this year. How does he do it? Even against the really good sides he's hitting the scoreboard!

BH:All heart, cracks in, excellent goal awareness, craft and the fact he doesn't like to handball always helps!

INSIDER: Best team you've played this year?

BH:Melton

INSIDER: What are three non-negotiables we would expect Rohan Brown to write on the whiteboard?

BH:Intensity, Pressure, Effort.

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

BH:Bailey Thompson

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

BH:Lincoln Koliba (16yo)

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 20m?

BH:Sam Canny

INSIDER: Favorite ground to play on away from Lake Wendouree?

BH:Eastern Oval

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

BH:Gavin Maher

INSIDER: Who is the last person you would want to share a room with on a footy trip?

BH:Tom Zampatti

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

BH:Chorizo Pasta

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

BH:Callum McKay

INSIDER: Toughest opponent?

BH:Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh)

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

BH:North Melbourne / Charlie Comben.

INSIDER: Tip for the BFNL flag?

BH:Melton at this stage.

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other clubs to your list, who would you pick?

BH:Brett Bewley (Darley), Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh), Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh).

At The Bar

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INSIDER: Congratulations on making it through to a Grand Final - the response in last week’s Preliminary was emphatic - how’s your confidence levels and the general vibe of the group heading into the big one?

BRENDAN MCCARTNEY: Forgive the run against Darley in SF2 but we're still improving.

INSIDER: Does the 'just another game' cliche fit a Grand Final in your eyes?

BM:Well, it is. It's a game of footy - you do your best - whatever happens, happens. The heightened interest is more external.

INSIDER: It's the club’s first Grand Final appearance since 2015 - have you managed to tick all the boxes since your appointment? Unfortunately, we'll never know how your undefeated 2021 season would end...

BM:Our aim has been to provide a pathway for our younger blokes and we're doing that.

INSIDER: How are you enjoying your return to local footy?

BM:Been great. Had a ball largely due to the quality of people at the club.

INSIDER: From your observations how is the standard of footy in the BFNL - would it stack up around the state?

BM:The good teams play well and would measure up.

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect you to write first on the white board?

BM:Attack the ball.

INSIDER: You've one of the more premier ruckman in the comp in Cam McCullum - more broadly, how do you value the importance of the ruckman in modern day footy?

BM:Critical. They've always been super important. First picked.

INSIDER: Who has been the one opposition player that has caused you the most grief in any one game?

BM:Simon Black when I was at the Cats.

INSIDER: What other sport could you coach at a high level if there were no footy?

BM:Most ball sports require team strategy.

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

BM:Jack Riding

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

BM:Josh Sparkman

INSIDER: Who at North Ballarat would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

BM:Jamie Quick

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

BM:Taj McMillan

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

BM:Mick Ryan

INSIDER: What’s your poison (preferred drink)?

BM:Beer - Melbourne Bitter

INSIDER: What's your favorite TV series or Movie?

BM:Sport Docos

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

BM:BBQ

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

BM:Ryan Hobbs

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're funnier than they really are?

BM:Ned Nash

INSIDER: Favorite AFL player?

BM:Matthew Scarlett

INSIDER: Finally, describe your opponent this week, Darley, today in a word?

BM:Tough

At The Bar

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INSIDER: Congratulations on making it back to the Grand Final - do I sense a healthy rivalry developing between Darley and Redan?

BRETT FAULKHEAD: We respect Redan, great rivalry. We lift a little more for Redan!

INSIDER: How has your club embraced the women’s program?

BF: Full support from the club. Pathway will expand with U/19 addition

INSIDER: Is external interest in the women’s game on the rise ie crowds?

BF: Slowly - needs greater coverage

INSIDER: What does women's footy need to fast track its development?

BF: More teams, AFL grass roots support

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect you to write first on the white board?  

BF: Have fun, respect for each other

INSIDER: Who is the most under rated player at the club?

BF: Charlotte Hill

INSIDER: What other sport could you coach at a high level if there were no footy?

BF: Table tennis

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

BF: Maddie Lister

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

BF: Matilda Rawlings

INSIDER: Who would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

BF: Kim Bessell

INSIDER: Who is the quickest in the team over 20m?

BF: Macy Le Huray

INSIDER: What is your favourite ground to play on away from home?

BF: City Oval

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

BF: Ben Skinner

INSIDER: Describe your coaching experience in 5 words or less?

BF: Enjoyable, challenging, entertaining, rewarding, exciting

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

BF: Spaghetti

INSIDER: What tv series would you recommend for us this Spring?

BF: Yellowstone

INSIDER: Invite 3 of your favorite celebs to dinner - take your pick?

BF: Paul Newman, Jack Steele, Ben Skinner

INSIDER: Who from the playing group would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

BF: Madalyn Clarke

INSIDER: Do any of the girls have annoying habits or superstitions they repeat before matches?

BF: Not really, each to their own

INSIDER: Who is your team’s number one fan?

BF: Lorissa Edwards

INSIDER: Favorite AFLW club and player?

BF: St Kilda, Georgia Patrikios

At The Bar

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INSIDER: About time we got you At the Bar - you've twisted our arm for long enough! How long has it been for you at the Bloods?

NABBY:33 years - arrived at the club in 1991.

INSIDER: Strange one, but did you have offers to join other clubs as an administrator over the journey?

NABBY:Over the journey yes - I’ll withhold club names out of respect.

INSIDER: How are the Bloods travelling mate?

NABBY:Tracking well this year, promoting within. Year to date – successful.

INSIDER: And more importantly, how are you travelling at the moment - how's your health?

NABBY:In between a pacemaker and prostate cancer life couldn't be better for the last 2 years.

INSIDER: Maccy Park is a love it or hate it venue - given its location and exposure to the elements. Is the ground a bit firmer than you'd like - to the eye, apart from the middle it looks rock hard?

NABBY:We'd like a softer surface sure. It's a grass (type) issue, not a surface issue.

INSIDER: You've been a fan of interleague over the years and placed a huge onus on socialising with other clubs, win or lose, is that club policy or do you just enjoy the social aspect?

NABBY:I enjoy the people you meet on the journey and the thrill of seeing them again years later wherever that may be.

INSIDER: You've done well to hang onto all those talented juniors (1 pointers) and keep them inside the cap. They must be a special bunch of lads who value club first ahead of themselves?

NABBY:They've played all their footy together right up through juniors - their loyalty is very much appreciated by the club.

INSIDER: Is it written in small print they must buy a car from you at Melton Toyota upon signing on?

NABBY:Very much so - #1 condition of all signatures!

INSIDER: Where are you seeing the greatest area of growth at club level?

NABBY:Started with the juniors moving to Maccy Park - keeps us all on the same page with vested interest.

INSIDER: Were you ever any good at footy - what was your version of your biggest day out before we get it confirmed?

NABBY:No glory on it, plenty off it!

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, over the journey which player at the club could do things on-field that others couldn't?

NABBY:Hugh Carey

INSIDER: Who was the highest profile player you almost landed at Melton?

NABBY:David Barnes! The pen ran out of ink, that's why David ended up at Darley.

INSIDER: Strangely, no Premierships in the RDFL and three in the BFNL - is that unders? Have the Bloods left a few out there?

NABBY:For sure. We lost 4/4 Grand Finals in the 1990's!

INSIDER: You look like a nervous watcher of footy and happier when it's all over - how are you on match days?

NABBY:Nervous wreck, no matter who or where we're playing. Come 5pm I’m a happy man!

INSIDER: What is your favorite ground to visit away from MacPhersons Park?

NABBY:Darley Park on and off the ground.

INSIDER: Favorite footy person over the journey outside of the club?

NABBY:Kelvin Dale and Mick Whelan

INSIDER: Invite 5 of your favorite Bloods over the journey to the Dinner table - take your pick..

NABBY:Hugh Carey, Darren Brown, Craig Berger, Jack Walker, Adrian Monitto

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

NABBY:Sausages, chips and an egg with gravy!

INSIDER: What tv series would you recommend for us this Winter?

NABBY:Foxtel sport - best reality tv show on earth!

INSIDER: Which one of the following most relates to you - Reader, viewer, gamer, commentator, raver?

NABBY:People do say I’m a raver!

INSIDER: Best three players you've seen at the Bloods in your time there?

NABBY:Hugh Carey, Mark Hunter, Danny Del Ray

INSIDER; Best or favorite three players from other clubs over the journey?  

NABBY:David Barnes (Darley), Brendan Treblecock (Sunbury), Brett Bewley (Darley)

INSIDER: Any truth in the story you signed former star Melton South junior and Western Bulldog Darren Stanley on a napkin in the late hours at a night club?

NABBY:Yes, 100% true over a Scotch!

INSIDER: Who wins - the Premiership Bloods of 2000, 2001 or 2022?

NABBY:The 2000 team gets the nod

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

NABBY:Sydney - Luke Parker

INSIDER: Biggest danger to the Bloods this year?

NABBY:Darley on a good day

INSIDER: If you could have three current players from other BFNL clubs join Melton who would you recruit?

NABBY:Brett Bewley (Darley), Matty Johnston (East Point) and Jordy Johnston (East Point)

At The Bar

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INSIDER: The Devils are travelling along nicely - in the here and now are you better than last year?

CHLOE OUGHTRED:Very similar. However, we're a different team from last year having lost a few/gained a few.

INSIDER: The standard of women's footy is heading in the right direction - what have you noticed at the local level - name three features in order re growth onfield..

CO:Cleaner skills, longer kicks and played at a faster pace.

INSIDER: Tell us about your coach Brett and what he has brought to the group?

CO:We had Brett in charge last year as well – he’s really big on resilience which has been massive for us!

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect Brett to write first on the white board?  

CO:Lower your eyes!

INSIDER: Take us to the final siren and the realisation you have just won a flag...describe the feeling and what went through your head?

CO:Relief but also couldn't believe we've actually won it!

INSIDER: Who is the most underrated player at the club?

CO:Maddy Lister

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy?

CO:Pool/snooker

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

COE:Lilli Condon

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

CO:Charli Parsons-Jones

INSIDER: Who at Darley would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

CO:Kim Bessel

INSIDER: Who is the quickest in the team over 20m?

CO:Trinity Skenderis

INSIDER: What is your favorite ground to play on away from Darley Park?

CO:CE Brown Reserve

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

CO:Ben Skinner

INSIDER: Invite 5 of favorite celebs to the dinner table - take your pick..

CO:1. Brayden Maynard 2. Heath Ledger 3. Beyonce 4. Ash Barty 5. Sam Kerr

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

CO:Some sort of pasta, doesn't matter which!

INSIDER: What tv series would you recommend for us this coming Winter?

CO:Painkiller

INSIDER: Which one of the following most relates to you - Reader, viewer, gamer, commentator, raver?

CO:Reader

INSIDER: Who from the playing group would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

CO:Susan Watson

INSIDER: Do any of the girls have annoying habits or superstitions they repeat before matches?

CO:Emmerson Hitch plays her own DJ mix pre game, even though they're average!

INSIDER: Who is your number one footy critic?

CO:My Dad

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

CO:Collingwood, Brayden Maynard.

At The Bar

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INSIDER: What has impressed you most about going back to Sunbury?

Cody Brand:Enjoying my footy, playing with mates.

INSIDER: You're known to a few as a 'key back' - how was your Round 1 experience playing as a deep forward (kicked 1.4) - are you expecting to play a full season forward?

CB:Yes it would be great, loving the change and dynamic.

INSIDER: Great win over North Ballarat, Cody... what advice would you give opposition clubs preparing to play Brendan McCartney's boys?

CB:Run and gun - make the most of your opportunities.

INSIDER: Give me your votes for Saturday's win over North Ballarat....

CB:5.J.Guthrie (Sunbury), 4. J.Chatfield (North Ballarat) , 3. H.Power (Sunbury), 2. J.Bygate (Sunbury), 1. S.Crameri (North Ballarat)

INSIDER: Describe how your coach Travis Hodgson was feeling after the win on Saturday?

CB:Very excited but grounded. Reminded us consistency is the key.

INSIDER: External expectations on the club this season are high, what are they like inside the four walls?

CB:No ceiling, we're a young group - one week at a time.

INSIDER: You've got Melton this week, tough ask - how are the confidence levels? Only Sunbury and North Ballarat beat them last year - that's a plus....

CB:Quietly confident, but fully aware they'll be there at the business end.

INSIDER: Describe AFL experience with the Bombers in five words...

CB: Fun, educational, maturing, hard-work, rewarding.

INSIDER: Who is your toughest footy critic?

CB:Mum 100 percent, she’s a shocker.

INSIDER: Your Dad Ashley and Uncle Rohan were high quality players at Sunbury. From what you've heard growing up around the club, who gets the nod?  

CB:Close, but probably Dad. Sticks did have his fair share of 'the man' moments though!

INSIDER: Over your short stay to date, which player has shown you to have the most upside?

CB:Harry Power.

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 20 m?

CB:Reggie Miller – easily.

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

CB:Matthew Power.

INSIDER: What's your favorite TV series or movie at the moment?

CB:The Entourage.

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

CB:Lasagna! Even Mum rates it (it's her recipe)!

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're funnier than they really are?

CB:Tyson Lever.

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

CB:Essendon, James Stewart.

At The Bar

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INSIDER: I remember you as a skinny 16-year-old winger with some good outside speed. Now, a vice-captain of the club (well done), how would you like the 20-year-old version of yourself (the player) to be seen by your peers?

CODY: Someone who has a crack.

INSIDER: You've had some good wins in recent weeks, confidence must be high at the Panthers. Competitiveness aside, what other areas of improvement are you seeing? 

CODY: Belief and confidence.

INSIDER: Name the one non-negotiable we would expect your coach Heath Pritchard to write first on the whiteboard?   

CODY: Pressure  

INSIDER: You've seen some quality come in and out of the club over your journey, who's the best you've seen?

CODY: Dylan Conway 

INSIDER: Who is the most underrated player at the club? 

CODY: Logan Brett!

INSIDER: Name your favourite BFNL ground to play on away from home?

CODY: Clarke Oval, Sunbury

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there was no footy? 

CODY: Cricket

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

CODY: Mitch Fino

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

CODY: Jarrod Bibby

INSIDER: Who (at Melton South) would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

CODY: Brody Sullivan

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

CODY: Will Thornton-Gielen

INSIDER: Who is the best trainer (footballer) on the track?

CODY: Shaun Wyatt

INSIDER: Who is your favourite footy person at the club?

CODY: 'Dennis'

INSIDER: Who is the last person you would want to share a room with on a footy trip?

CODY: Jayden O'Loughlin 

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish?

CODY: Oven pizzas

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show? 

CODY: Riley Theo 

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely be seen eating a kebab downtown, 4 am on a Sunday morning?

CODY: Rhys Lee

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're a whole lot funnier than they really are?

CODY: Michael Scicchitano

INSIDER: Surely, you have a celebrity crush.... c’mon mate, tell us all!?

CODY: Dua Lipa

INSIDER: Favourite AFL club and player?

CODY: Adelaide Crows, Rory Sloane

INSIDER: BFNL flag tip (can't be Melton South)?

CODY: Sebastopol 

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other BFNL clubs to your list, who would you pick?

CODY: J. Cotter - Melton (back), L. George - Redan (midfield), N. Rodda - Darley (forward)