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INSIDER: The Devils are travelling along nicely and look to have closed the gap on benchmark Redan. Is that a fair observation?

Lilli Condon:Yes definitely, next time we have to be a real chance.

INSIDER: You finished within a point of the Lions a couple of weeks ago - how did the girls process the loss?

LC:While we weren't expecting to win there was disappointment. Plenty of positives and learnings from the game.

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

LC:Back to basics approach with good connection and understanding. Nice guy with new ideas.

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

LC:A stats reference for the day to improve on.

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

LC: Bella Phillips

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

LC:Netball or Basketball

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

LC:Maddie Lister

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

LC:Chloe Oughtred

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

LC:Kim Bessell

INSIDER: Who is the quickest in the team over 30m?

LC: Katie McAloom

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

LC:City Oval

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

LC: Lorissa Edwards

INSIDER: Describe your experience at the GWV Rebels in 5 words or less?

LC: Awesome people, amazing experience

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

LC:Pasta

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

LC:Yellowstone

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

LC: Maddy Clarke

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

LC:Emmerson Hitch (DJ set)!

INSIDER: Who is your number one footy critic?

LC:Mum, even though she doesn't know much!

INSIDER: Favorite AFL/W club and player?

LC:St Kilda, Georgia Patrikios

INSIDER: Can any team beat Redan (outside of Darley)?

LC:Hmmm, maybe not!

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INSIDER: How do you pronounce Goetz - can spell for us how it's supposed to sound?

LUKE GOETZ:G - u - r - t - s

INSIDER: Wins aside, what have you enjoyed most about your eight games at the Cobras?

LG:Getting to know everyone, building relationships on and off field.

INSIDER: The club just signed Jason Williams on for another season or two - tell us about your relationship with him?

LG:Really good, honest feedback - got me enjoying my footy again!

INSIDER: Name the top 3 priorities the Cobras need to return to finals?

LG:A Key back, a midfielder and another tall.

INSIDER: Who has been your toughest opponent in the BFNL - player and club?

LG:Cam McCullum and Sebastopol.

INSIDER: Who is your harshest footy critic?

LG:Dad

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

LG:Basketball

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

LG:Jake McCreery

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

LG:Josh Huxtable

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

LG:Jake Owen or Joel Freeman

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

LG:Ashton Craig

INSIDER: Which player by foot is the most skilled on their opposite side?

LG:Jake Owen

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

LG:Shane Cook

INSIDER: What's your favorite ground to play on outside of Maddingley Park?

LG:City Oval, Redan

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

LG:Friends

INSIDER: Apart from your phone, what can't you leave home without?

LG:Hair tie

INSIDER: Which teammate would be the last person you'd want to share a room with on a footy trip?

LG:Alan Smith

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

LG:Steak and sausages

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

LG:Luca Kraljic

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

LG:Richmond, Nick Vlastuin

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

LG:Brett Bewley (Darley), Liam Carter (Melton), Ryan Carter (Melton)

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INSIDER: You arrived at Darley in 2021 - who from the club was responsible for essentially finding you?

Matthew Brett:Travis Minns, pre covid. He maintained contact through 2020, built rapport and the rest is history.

INSIDER: What is your actual role at the club Matty?

MB:Assistant Coach - Backs

INSIDER: It was great news for Devils’ fans to hear you were sticking around after a winless 2021 - the club must be growing on you?

MB:Definitely, Darley has a terrific community feel about the place, country environment, similar to back home / playing for a town that's meaningful.

INSIDER: Head coach Dan Jordan is an interesting character - what have you learned from him in your role as 'line' coach?

MB:The importance of building connection / relationships with people.

INSIDER: You did your knee against Melton last year - tell us about that - the pain, the frustration, the rehab.

MB:The pain 7/10, the frustration was being unable to be an example with my own actions (on-field), the rehab requires some serious diligence/discipline to return on time.

INSIDER: You have East Point on the road this week, tough ask - how are the confidence levels? They ran over the top of you at Eastern Oval last year, they will be hard to beat again i'm sure.

MB:They're a quality side. Will be a good test for us – it will be more accurate gage after three rounds for where we're truly at.

INSIDER: Is Brett Bewley's preparation as full on as it's rumoured to be? Tell us about your footy relationship with Brett.

MB:"Preps" as good as anyone i've known, Brett certainly loves his footy. We have a solid footy relationship, sharing a common goal wanting ultimate success for the club. As for rumour, I've heard he even sleeps with a footy!

INSIDER: Favorite ground to play on outside of Darley Park?

MB: City Oval

INSIDER: Who is your toughest footy critic?

MB:Outside of myself, probably my Dad.

INSIDER: Which young Darley player has shown you to have the most upside?

MB:Mace Cousins and Bailey Young. Both terrific young men that work hard.

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

MB:Jake 'Choccy barrel" Ancrum!

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

MB:Digger Edwards....always good for a cheap laugh!

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

MB:Veggie butter chicken with rice

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

MB:Mitch Ward

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

MB:Carlton, Tom Stewart.

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INSIDER: What's it like playing high level footy under your Dad (Troy)? Are you able to separate the roles he has in your life?

MAX SCOBLE: Yeah definitely - we split family / footy conversation - no favours

INSIDER: Your Grandfather, Wayne Scoble, won a B&F at Darley in 1975. Who do you think he will be supporting on Saturday?

MS: I think the Bloods....maybe...?

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect your coach, your Dad, to write first on the white board game day?

MS: United

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect your Mum to write first on the fridge?

MS: Do the Dishes!

INSIDER: It was pretty cool to see you play senior footy with your younger brother Chase - what does he have you wish you had?

MS: A cool haircut - I have everything else he wishes he had!

INSIDER: Who is your harshest critic in the family?

MS: Mum!

INSIDER: Favorite ground to play on away from MacPherson Park?

MS: City Oval

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

MS: Golf - but average at best!

INSIDER: Which of the following best suits you? A reader, a gamer, a commentator, a raver?

MS: A raver!

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

MS: Jai Whitehead

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

MS: Zach Russell

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

MS: Braedan Kight

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

MS: Kyle Borg

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

MS: Beau Beck

INSIDER: Are you a footy head - how do you consume your footy each week? Rate yourself out of 10.

MS: 8/10 - AFL - podcasts, read, watch a few games. Local - follow a few comps, mates etc

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

MS: Steak and veg

INSIDER; Invite 5 people whoever you like to sit at the dinner table with you.....

MS: Lebron James, James Hird, Justin Jefferson (NFL), Tom Brady (NFL), Tiger Woods

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

MS: Justin Newton

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

MS: Blake Souter

INSIDER: Name a player that has any unusual, weird superstitions ahead of game time...

MS: Adrian Monitto has to have a cold shower before a game!

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

MS: Essendon, Zach Merrett

INSIDER: Biggest threat to Melton winning the flag?

MS: Too close to call

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

MS: Broden Collins (Melton South), Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat), Brett Bewley (Darley)

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INSIDER: Hi Mick, you're leaving the club after a fairly short stay given the COVID interruptions - can you let us in on why you're leaving the job? 

MICHAEL: New job requires weekend work - can't give the time necessary.

INSIDER: How does reaching the Grand Final in your first full year (essentially) at the club compare to your other achievements in footy? You've had a tough run at the club with injury and illness...

MICHAEL: Great achievement getting there sure, but a flag is the targeted improvement (from 2019).

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

MICHAEL: Ball movement

INSIDER: The wider competition holds Tony Lockyer in the highest regard - what's his strength and which player in the comp would you send to Tony if you were coaching against him? 

MICHAEL: Reading the ball in the air, fitness - covers the ground exceptionally well. Lachie Dawson went alright on him.

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

MICHAEL: Brett Bewley put a clinic in Round One.

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

MICHAEL: Maybe basketball

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

MICHAEL: James Keeble

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

MICHAEL: Riley O'Keefe

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

MICHAEL: Jed Hill

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

MICHAEL: Bailey Veale

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

MICHAEL: Mick Clarke

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

MICHAEL: Unforgotten

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

MICHAEL: Lachie Cassidy

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

MICHAEL: Pesto pasta

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

MICHAEL: Jed Hill

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

MICHAEL:Jed Hill again, even though I think he's quite funny!

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

MICHAEL:Western Bulldogs, Aaron Naughton

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

MICHAEL: Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh), Brett Bewley (Darley), Jordy Johnston (East Point).

INSIDER; Finally, describe your opponents today Melton in a word.

MICHAEL: Organised.

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INSIDER: Hi Mickitja, before the footy chat, can you tell us about your family name and its origin?

MICKITJA: Mickitja - the indigenous name means 'SOLID ROCK' (Arnhem land), Rotumah is of Fijian origin

INSIDER: You were lucky to play in back-to-back flags in 2018-2019. Do you have a favourite? If so, tell us why?

MICKITJA: 2019 - see footy highlight above

INSIDER: What is the one non-negotiable playing under Jake Bridges?

MICKITJA: Sticking to team trademarks

INSIDER: Hardest opponent?

MICKITJA: Joey Symonds, Brian Graham

INSIDER: Best player you've seen in the BFNL?

MICKITJA: Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)

INSIDER: You have had some serious talent run out for East Point over the last few years, who has been the most underrated?

MICKITJA: Joel Van Meel - he gets all the big jobs on the key forwards 

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

MICKITJA: Rugby League

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

MICKITJA: Jordy Johnston

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

MICKITJA: Lachie Charleson

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

MICKITJA: Jordy Johnston

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

MICKITJA: Aiden Nestor

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

MICKITJA: Mitch Walsh

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

MICKITJA: Mark Scull

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

MICKITJA: Jordy Johnston...AGAIN!!

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

MICKITJA: Pasta (INSIDER: Boring?) Not really, there's a lot you can do with pasta

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

MICKITJA: Sam Cue

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

MICKITJA: Thomas Brown

INSIDER: Favourite AFL club and player?

MICKITJA: Essendon, Marcus Bontempelli 

INSIDER: BFNL flag tip (can't be East Point)?

MICKITJA: Melton

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

MICKITJA: Back: Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol); Mid: Daniel Burton (B/Marsh); Fwd: Ryan Carter (Melton)

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INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect your coach Heath Pritchard to write first on the whiteboard?

MITCH: 100% effort!

INSIDER: What's the biggest difference between Western Jets footy and BFNL senior footy?

MITCH: Physicality, bigger bodies

INSIDER: How far off from playing finals do you think the Panthers are? What does the club need most?

MITCH: We're not far away; we'll go close next year - (a) couple of talls (would) be handy.

INSIDER: Who is your harshest critic in the family?

MITCH: Nathan (Brother)

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

MITCH: Soccer

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

MITCH: Riley Theo

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

MITCH: Jax Boof's sons

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

MITCH: Daniel Vasjuta

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

MITCH: Michael Callus

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

 MITCH: Boof

INSIDER: What's your favourite ground to play on outside of Melton South?

MITCH: Darley Park

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

MITCH: Stranger Things

INSIDER: What can't you leave home without?

MITCH: My phone

INSIDER: Celebrity crush? C'mon, everyone has got one.

MITCH: Gigi Hadid

INSIDER: Who did you want to win Wimbledon - Kyrgios or Djokovic?

MITCH: Kyrgios

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

MITCH: Rhys Lee

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

MITCH: Spaghetti Bolognese (again!)

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

MITCH: Billy Lloyd

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

MITCH: Broden Collins

INSIDER: Favourite AFL club and player?

MITCH: Collingwood, Izak Rankine

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

MITCH: Ryan Carter (Melton), Jordy Johnston (East Point), Brett Bewley (Darley)

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INSIDER: What do you attribute your break-out season to - what have you done differently?

MITCH MCLEAN: Opportunity, afforded responsibility, coach belief.

INSIDER: On the team front - explain the improvement at Sunbury?

MM: Spike in belief of the playing group, playing for one another, riding highs and lows together

INSIDER: You get a birds-eye view playing alongside Jake Sutton - what makes him the x-factor player he is? Share three of his greatest strengths...

MM: Positioning, Overhead marking, Attack on the footy

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

MM: Go when it's your turn to go!

INSIDER: Take us through your interleague experience - how was it?

MM: Really good, awesome day. Enjoyed playing with similar age profile top end talent.

INSIDER: Hypothetically speaking, how would the Under 23 BFNL team fare if it were a team in the BFNL?

MM: Up there but I reckon experience would get us in the end.

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

MM:Jordan Tentonello

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

MM: Cricket

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

MM: Lachie Urbon

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

MM: Cody Bramble

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

MM:Leigh Brennan

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

MM: Riley Miller

INSIDER: What is your favorite ground to play on away from Clarke Oval?

MM: Marty Busch Reserve, Sebastopol

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

MM: Corey Mobilio

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

MM: Buddy Franklin, Selena Gomez, The Rock, Fifty Cent, Brian Taylor

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

MM: Steak and Chips

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

MM: Snowfall (Amazon)

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

MM:Viewer

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

MM: Jake Sutton

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

MM:Jake Sutton again, eats a tin of tuna pre-game and it STINKS!

INSIDER: Who is your number one footy critic?

MM: Dad

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

MM: Hawthorn, Will Day

INSIDER: Best team you've played this year?

MM: East Point

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

MM: Jordy Cotter (Melton), Brett Bewley (Darley), Matty Johnston (East Point)

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INSIDER: Your new role forward has been an encouraging success this season with 18 goals (comp rank #10) whose idea was it and what was the motivation?

NED NASH:Maccas’ (Brendan McCartney’s) idea. Practice match theory, add a string to the bow. Was once a forward in juniors.

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect your coach Brendan McCartney to write first on the white board?

NN:Turn up and step in!

INSIDER: Describe each of your off season recruits in a word.

NN:Mal White - silky, Liam Deering - reliable, Daikin Morris - tough, Noah Cockerill - solid.

INSIDER: Name your favorite BFNL ground away from Mars Stadium?

NN:CE Brown Reserve, Lake Wendouree

INSIDER: No Jamie Quick (ankle) recently and Stewart Crameri (hamstring) has been unsighted. What's the update on those two?

NN:Not sure, but I’m tipping Cramers to play before Quicky (medium term)

INSIDER: How do you think you're travelling compared to mid-season last year?

NN:On par, tough team to get into last year but we're more organised this year.

INSIDER: Who is your harshest critic in the family?

NN:I was thinking Mum, but on second thoughts definitely NAN!

INSIDER: Who is the best team you've played this season?

NN:Melton

INSIDER: Was covid primarily responsible for your disappointing loss to Sunbury?

NN:No, we were terrible - way off, no connection. That can happen in footy.

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

NN:Reggie Palmer

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

NN:Hugh Trigg

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

NN: Riley Polkinghorne (Pfft..!! - nah, i'm happy to take it!!)

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

NN:Isaac Carey

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

NN:Andrew Ferguson

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

NN:Nelson Troon

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

NN:Vodka Red Bull

INSIDER: What's your favorite thing that is considered authentically Australian?

NN:Vegemite

INSIDER: Favorite city to live in outside of Australia?

NN:Boston, USA

INSIDER: Which of the following best describes you - a reader, a gamer, a raver, a commentator?

NN;A raver!

INSIDER: What's your favorite TV series to stream at the moment?

NN:It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (Disney+)

INSIDER: Give us your footy head rating out of 10? How do you consume footy from week to week?

NN:Keen viewer and reader of AFL and BFNL. Yeah, I'm on it - solid 8 I reckon!

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

NN:Steak and potatoes, boys would love it!

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

NN:Brainiac numbers are low at North (ha, ha!) - but I’ll back in Brayden Purchase!

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

NN:Max Faulkner

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

NN:Richmond, Nick Vlaustin.

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

NN:Jordy Cotter (Melton), MIkitja Rottumah-Onus (East Point), Joel Cadman (Darley).

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INSIDER: Your name - Paddy Simpson - how far back do we have to go until we're talking to a fully accented Irish native?

PADDY SIMPSON:Pop - (Dad's dad!).

INSIDER: How do you think the Swans are faring on expectations seven rounds in (W3L3)?

PS:It's about right - we're comfortable where we're at. (Had Darley, Melton, East Point last 3).

INSIDER: Tell us about newcomers Lauchie Dalgleish and Call Wellings?

PSDalgleish - quick, illusive, skilled left footer coming off half back, CW - tough, competitive, inside mid who can tackle and can go forward.

INSIDER: For the benefit of external interest - what are the strengths of your coach Chris Maple?

PS:Well structured, high footy, identifies individual strengths and gets the best out of those.

INSIDER: The Swans lost Rhett Montgomery to the SANFL - what will you miss most from his output?

PS:Intercept marking and leadership.

INSIDER: You had a shoulder problem last year - how's everything with the body now?

PS:It's going alright, feeling pretty good but not 100%

INSIDER: Favorite ground to play on away from Alfredton Oval?

PS:Maddingley Park

INSIDER: Who is your toughest footy critic?

PS:House mates

INSIDER: Which young Ballarat player has shown you to have the most upside?

PS:Nic Robertson (GWV Rebels)

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

PS:Lauchie Dalgleish

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

PS:Rob James

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

PS:Steak chips and salad

INSIDER: Go-to food choice at the footy?

PS:Chips and gravy

INSIDER: Which of the following best describes you - a gamer, a raver, a commentator, a reader?

PS:Raver and a reader

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

PS:Wyatt Squires

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

PS:Bailey Fraser

INSIDER: Invite 5 celebrities to join you at the dinner table - who are you asking?

PS:Dustin Martin, Lebron James, Denzel Washington, Roger Federer, Ash Barty.

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

PS:Richmond, Dustin Martin

INSIDER: Add 3 current BFNL players to the Swans list - who you take?

PS:Brett Bewley (Darley), Jordy Johnston (East Point), Jack Riding (North Ballarat)

INSIDER: BFNL flag tip (outside of Swans)?

PS:East Point

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INSIDER: How are you finding the journey in women's footy - do you feel it is being embraced well by firstly the local community and more broadly across the state?

PORTIA HUGHES:Has come a long way but there's plenty more to go. Return of interleague would be a good start.

INSIDER: Why is Redan such a dominant force in women's footy?

PHA lot of the girls played juniors together. Family connection and team morale are quality traits.

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

PH:Always been around the juniors and now seniors. Is very knowledgeable and welcomes feedback.

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

PH:Talk and Communication.

INSIDER: What changes would best support the women's game?

PH:Curtain raiser games before the men’s would only increase exposure

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

PH:Mads Quayle

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

PH:Triathlon or Running

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

PH:Ellen Werts

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

PH:Jenna Bourke

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

PH:Jess Bokma

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

PH:Abbey Wallace

INSIDER: What is your favorite ground to play on away from City Oval?

PH:Carisbrook Oval

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

PH:Shannon Simpson

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

PH:Fried Rice

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

PH:After Life / Grey's Anatomy

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

PH:Ellen Werts

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

PH:Some listen to music, others like to fold their socks a certain way!

INSIDER: Who is your number one footy critic?

PH:Definitely my Dad

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

PH:Collingwood, Dane Swan

INSIDER: Can any team beat Redan?

PH:Darley and the Lakers have the potential..

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INSIDER: Tough year in charge mate, how you holding up?

RYAN HOY:Ups and downs but the purpose is to see the juniors progress and build character.

INSIDER: Would you like the Panthers to stick it out in the BFNL in coming years or consider a move to be more competitive?

RH:Things are happening - the club will be ok.

INSIDER: How many players would be needed to be competitive in the BFNL again?

RH:Probably 12 with an eye toward 4 or 5 wins.

INSIDER: What has been your impression of the standard in BFNL footy?

RH:Caught me by surprise. Very well structured and disciplined in their roles.

INSIDER: How do you think the BFNL would go against the Southern league where you previously coached?

RH:BFNL would win 10 goals plus. More inside footy than the SFNL.

INSIDER: Any idea how many players used at senior level by the Panthers this year? Under19's?

RH:40+ including 16 Under 17s and 19s

INSIDER: What are three non-negotiables we would expect you to write on the white board?

RH:Discipline, heart & soul, pride in the jumper & performance

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

RH:Mitch Caddy

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

RH:Lachie Pritchard

INSIDER: Who gives you the most feedback?

RH:Cody Chapman

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

RH:Cassius White

INSIDER: Favorite ground to play on away from Melton South?

RH:Mars Stadium

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

RH:Scott Carlin

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

RH:Jack Morrisey

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

RH:Tacos

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

RH:Jack Morrissey

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

RH:North Melbourne, Wayne Carey

INSIDER: Tip for the BFNL flag?

RYAN;North Ballarat

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

RH:Can I have four? I'll take Jay Dahlhaus (Sebastopol), Ryan Carter (Melton), Brett Bewley (Darley) and Isaac Grant (Redan)

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INSIDER: You’re new to the club this year, how would you like to be described as a player by your peers?

RYDER ROUSCH:Team first player

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect your coach Travis Hodgson to write first on the white board?  

RR:Effort

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

RR:Cody Chapman

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

RR:Mars Stadium

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

RR:Basketball

INSIDER: If you had to be one - which one would you choose? - a gamer, a commentator, a raver

RR: A gamer!

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

RR:Anthony Wilson

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

RR:Lachie Pritchard

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

RR:Jayden Welch

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

RR:Lachie Pritchard

INSIDER: Who is the best trainer on the track?

RR:Brodie Ryan

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

RR:Hoggy

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

RR:Broden Collins

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

RR:Uber eats!

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

RR:Mitch Fino

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

RR:Broden Collins

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

RR:Broden Collins

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

RR:Essendon, Dustin Fletcher

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

RR:North Ballarat

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

RR:Brett Bewley (Darley), Jake Egan (Sunbury), Will Rousch (Sunbury U/19s)

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INSIDER: Firstly, welcome to the BFNL, what do you know about the competition?

RYE PENNY:Not too much. I went to Bacchus Marsh Grammar and heard a bit about it there, but I expect it to be similar to the Bendigo League.

INSIDER: You're a Collingwood VFL listed player formerly aligned with Gisborne, how did u end up at the Cobras?

RP:Well I have mates here from my school days and Dennis' appointment pretty much got me over the line given he's great mates with Josh Fraser (Collingwood VFL Coach).

INSIDER: Tell us about your experience thus far at Collingwood, are you in the mix for regular selection?

RP:I've played four games as a 23rd man for the Pies and loved it. Selection is tough this year, only five or six listed VFL players are getting an opportunity each week. I'll just have to wait for my opportunity and hopefully I can take it.

INSIDER: The club signed Dennis Armfield to coach the Cobras - tell us about him?

RP:Dennis has been awesome. I've had heaps of coaches over the last few years and for some reason it feels he's a level above. Dennis is really passionate about the club with an emphasis on wanting to make people better.

INSIDER: Name two top priorities the Cobras need to return to finals?

RP:1. Persevere with youth involvement, there is plenty of talent around here. 2. Aggression, will compete.

INSIDER: Who is your harshest footy critic?

RP:Mum! If I don't have 40 possessions and take a couple of hangers, she is in to me!

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

RP:Volleyball (played in National league)

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

RP:Luke Goetz

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

RP:Isaac Nixon

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

RP:Definitely, Joel Freeman.

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

RP:Spence Jenks!

INSIDER: Which player (by foot) is the most skilled on their opposite side?

RP:Jack Kovacevic

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

RP:Shannon Nixon

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

RP:Not enough time for that stuff really, I didn't mind the Avatar movies.

INSIDER: Apart from your phone, what can't you leave home without?

RP:Four pairs of clothes because I never really know where I’m going to end up!

INSIDER: Which player would be the last person you'd want to share a room with on a footy trip?

RP:Joel Freeman

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

RP:Burritos

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

RP:Isaac Nixon

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

RP:Collingwood, Oleg Markov - I’m trying to emulate my game on his.

INSIDER: If you could add one player to the Cobras list given your time spent in the Bendigo FNL, who would you pick?

RP:Lachie Tardew (Sandhurst midfielder)

INSIDER KNOWLEDGE - In his draft year Penny topped the field in the standing vertical jump and running vertical jump as well as the 20m sprint. Penny's 89cm on the standing vertical jump equaled the all-time combine record set by Aidan Bonar at the 2017 NAB AFL Draft combine.

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INSIDER: In 20 words or less, how's footy life at Cobraland?

SPENCE JENKS:Very enjoyable - the group is as connected as it's been in recent times - awesome place to be, big things coming!

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect Cobras coach Dennis Armfield to write first on the white board?

SJ: Team first

INSIDER: Name your favorite BFNL ground away from Maddingley Park?

SJ: Eastern Oval

INSIDER: Tip how many wins the Cobras will have in 2024?

SJ: Enough to make the six!

INSIDER: What's your tip as to what number you think Cobras junior Sam Lalor will be drafted?

SJ: Pick #14 to the Cats!

INSIDER: Who is your harshest critic in the family?

SJ: My Dad when I was younger, not so much now.

INSIDER: You co-host The Presser on a Wednesday night and were a no show during the week - give us your tips for BFNL RD7?

SJ: East Point, Melton, Sunbury, Sebastopol, North Ballarat

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

SJ: Josh Huxtable

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

SJ: Rye Penny

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

SJ: Ethan McKercher

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

SJ: Isaac Nixon

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

SJ: Pete LaFranchi and Andrew Porter

INSIDER: Who is the last person you would least like to share a room with on a trip away?

SJ: Josh Calvitto

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

SJ: Stone and Wood

INSIDER: What's your favorite thing that is considered authentically Australian?

SJ: Lamingtons!

INSIDER: Favorite city to live in outside of Australia?

SJ: Dublin

INSIDER: Which of the following best describes you - a reader, a raver, a commentator, a premiership player?

SJ: Commentator. Hopefully premiership player one day!

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

SJ: Captains of the World (Netflix)

INSIDER: You love your footy stats - give me your most under and overrated stat in the game?

SJ: (Under) - Inside 50 efficiency / marks. (Over) - Centre clearances

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

SJ: Hot Dogs!

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

SJ: Andrejs Everitt

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

SJ: Colby Piggott

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

SJ: Geelong / Max Holmes

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

SJ: Tyson Lever (Sunbury), Brett Bewley (Darley), Jordy Johnston (East Point).

INSIDER: Who wins the BFNL flag this year?

SJ: Melton.

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INSIDER: St Joseph’s (GFNL) has been a resourceful AFL hunting ground for talent over the years. Have you played with anyone who have gone on to the highest level?

TOM ZAMPATTI:Sam Walsh (Carlton), Tom McCartin (Sydney)

INSIDER: So why the move to Lakers?

TZ:I'm best mates with Angus Gove and Brayden Helyar - we went to Uni together.

INSIDER: How are you enjoying your time, glad you made the move?

TZ:I'm loving it, good vibe, developing young group. Good foundation for future on-field success

INSIDER: There was much speculation about your knee ahead of your first game in Lakers’ colours. What actually happened?

TZ:I did my ACL for a second time on Anzac day 2022. No luck at all!

INSIDER: You're now playing and going well, what were your first impressions of the BFNL?

TZ:Pretty good standard, grounds and facilities are better in the BFNL, similar levels in top-end talent. GFNL has more depth in playing lists (the bottom six).

INSIDER: Who wins GFNL or BFNL?

TZ:Tough question. Put it this way, I reckon Melton and Darley would play finals but not win it.

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

TZ:Play your role, Consistency, Tempo

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

TZ:Bailey Thompson

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

TZ:Bailey Ryan

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

TZ: NOT Angus Gove!

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

TZ:Eastern Oval

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

TZ:Gav Maher

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

TZ:Bailey Thompson

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

TZ:Chicken Enchiladas

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

TZ:Angus Gove

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

TZ:Richmond, Dustin Martin

INSIDER: Tip for the BFNL flag?

TZ:Darley

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

TZ:Brett Bewley (Darley), Jordy Johnston (East Point), Ryan Carter (Melton).

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INSIDER: The Interleague program returns this weekend - are you a fan of the Under 23 model?

TRAVIS HODGSON:Yes, I am. Appropriate age group to find the next Nick Hind, Lachie Bramble.

INSIDER: You're an assistant coach under former Carlton great Anthony Koutoufides, tell us about your first impressions of him around the group?

TH:Loves footy, good communicator. Passionate about the job he's doing.

INSIDER: Who else makes up the coaching staff for the BFNL?

TH:Jake Bridges (former East Point), Frank Pawlowicz (Bacchus Marsh) & Kouta!

INSIDER: You've been involved coaching at BFNL club level for a while now – how are the Under 23 stocks shaping up?

TH:Really strong, lots of talent. Hard to beat but unknown opposition.

INSIDER: How's the buy-in from the players on the track - are the boys embracing the concept?

TH:Everyone who has been selected and able has bought in completely. Tick. The only obsticle is those with prior VFL commitments.

INSIDER: Given you coach Sunbury and you're not short on representation, which players from other clubs have caught your eye on the track?

TH:I'm not one to single out individuals but Izaac Grant and Jack Riding have been impressive.

INSIDER: You've got a very busy footy schedule - was it easy to find time to accept the role?

TH: This year yes, because I’m not coaching juniors!

INSIDER: What can you tell us about the Hampden League? What sort of footy are they renowned for down Warrnambool way?

TH:My memory of Hampden League - genuine, tough, uncompromising.

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

TH:Jamie Quick, among a few.

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

TH:Izaac Grant

INSIDER: Who is the quickest among the group over 30m?

TH:Riley Miller and Kyle Borg both lightning!

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

TH:Richmond, Dustin Martin

INSIDER: Ok mate, last one and we're going to hold you to this call...BFNL by how much?

TH:One point!

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INSIDER: Congratulations on the journey so far, mate. Win/loss aside, it's been a tough year for the club. What has a spot in the grand final done for the morale of the Bloods’ family?

TROY SCOBLE: The challenges experienced galvanize and strengthen our connection. Provides genuine feedback to us all that we have a unique environment with genuine people.

INSIDER: Do you think the current playing group is undervalued or underappreciated more broadly given their impeccable win/loss record dating back as far as 2018?

TS: Absolutely. The numbers don’t lie on the group’s performance this home and away season. The acknowledgement or lack thereof is not our concern, seeking external acknowledgement has never been a goal.

INSIDER: If so, should the covid epidemic take some responsibility for us missing out on the Bloods’ full potential through 2020-21?

TS: Great question. The age profile of the group may suggest they lost some opportunities. However, there are other teams over the period that would have felt the same.

INSIDER: You're harder to play against in 2024 – what is the reason behind that? You could look at percentage, depth, maturity of talent, system, anything else?

TS: Combination of all but system, development and trust in the list is the reason. Talent has no influence.

INSIDER: Scoreboard aside, what's the one stat you'd like to win today?

TS: Pressure rating

INSIDER: What is your #1 non-negotiable asked of the players each week?

TS: Know your role, play your role.

INSIDER: Playing group aside, is there another battle going on on-field between coaches - are some harder to play against than others - do some work out your theories better than others where you need to adapt on the run?

TS: There is. Love the challenge. Some terrific coaches in the competition that challenge your coaches’ box, and you build your learning when you coach against them.

INSIDER: It must've been a proud moment seeing both of your boys Max and Chase play senior footy together... how was that reality for you?

TS: As a coach, love seeing players earn opportunities. As a parent, a thrill for our family. Also being a part of five sets of brothers playing in a game is a great memory for them.

INSIDER: Who is your harshest critic?

TS: My wife, Michelle!

INSIDER: Favorite BFNL ground away from MacPherson Park?

TS: Darley Park

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

TS: One trick wonder. None.

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

TS: Lachie Phillips

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

TS: Blood’s bank is full - too many to individualize!

INSIDER: Who is the most fundamentally skilled player at the club?

TS: Kyle Borg

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

TS: All of the volunteers

INSIDER: Are you a footy head - how do you consume your footy each week?

TS: I love footy and the strategies that go with it. Watch a bit of AFL, have some good networks.

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

TS: Some form of meat on a spit.

INSIDER: Invite 5 people whoever you like to sit at the dinner table with you...

TS: My wife Michelle, Roger Federer, Luke Hodge, Tom Brady.

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

TS: Jordy Kight

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

TS: Can't answer without offending haha!

INSIDER: Name a player that has any unusual, weird superstitions ahead of game time...

TS: Couple of players (nameless) like to shower pregame!

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

TS: Hawthorn, Toby Greene

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

TS: Brett Bewley (Darley), Brady Wright (Darley), Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) & Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol).

INSIDER: I said you could only have three! haha

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INSIDER: If your coach Travis Hodgson had three non-negotiables for the players etched in stone - what would they be?

TYSON:1. Play your role, 2. When it's your time to go, you go, 3. Good offence comes off good defence.

INSIDER: You and Daniel Toman had a heap of the footy last week (94 possessions combined, 84 uncontested) - for the record, how many times do you think you hit him up with the short option?

TYSON:Yeah, he's not shy finding the footy - he probably owes me a few beers - good observation.

INSIDER: What advice would you pass on to other clubs facing North Ballarat?

TYSON:Play fast flowing footy with plenty of outside run.

INSIDER: Sunbury has kicked more than 5 goals just twice in their last six meetings against Melton (2-4). Any chance we could see you moved to the forward line if the pattern continues?

TYSON:I'll be in his ear if required!

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

TYSON:James Cree - can play short, tall, lightning speed, strong -(he plays on the freaks!)

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

TYSON:Out: Alec Goodsen (lost his touch) - In: Leigh Brennan 

INSIDER: Who at the club is most likely to take Mark of the Year?

TYSON:Nathan Wood

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

TYSON:Definitely finals

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

TYSON:James Cree or Corey Mobilio

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

TYSON:Daniel Toman (on-field) - 'The Juiceman' (off-field)

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

TYSON:Callum Lever or Tom Werner (absolute pests especially after a few beers!)

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

TYSON:Steak sandwich

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

TYSON:Tom Werner (no brains but elite quizzer)

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

TYSON:Nathan Doyle (sleeps with the light on!)

INSIDER: Favourite AFL club and player?

TYSON:Western Bulldogs, Jack McCrae

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

TYSON:Squash

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

TYSON:Jake Owen (B/Marsh), Dylan Conway (M/South), Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point)

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INSIDER: Tell us about your coach Joe Carmody - his influence on your footy?

WILL:Great connection with the whole group

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

WILL:Daniel Kennedy 

INSIDER: Name three reasons that justify the team's overall improvement...

WILL:Hard work, commitment, buy-in

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

WILL:Andrew Hooper

INSIDER: What do you associate with the rise of Bailey Van de Heuvel?

WILL:Plenty of hard work, surprised he hadn't been picked up earlier

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

WILL:Playing finals

INSIDER: With which BFNL club do you share your greatest rivalry?

WILL:North Ballarat City

INSIDER: What non-playing assets has Josh Gibson brought to the club? 

WILL:A lot of time for everyone, guidance, and has brought belief

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

WILL:Grant Baldwin

INSIDER: Who at the club is most likely to take Mark of the Year?

WILL:Carter Prendergast

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

WILL:Probably nothing..lol!

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

WILL:Andrew Hooper

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

WILL:Daniel Kennedy, just doesn't shut up!

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

WILL:Big batch of tacos (shop-bought!)

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

WILL:Luke Wynd

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

WILL:Geelong, Gary Ablett Jr

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

WILL:Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol - back), Lachie George (Redan - midfield), James Keeble (Sebastopol - forward)