Good Friday Football Preview with 'Scoop'

The Kangaroos host the Cobras for a second instalment of their standalone Good Friday fixture to kickstart a highly anticipated BFNL season.

The Kangaroos host the Cobras for a second instalment of their standalone Good Friday fixture to kickstart a highly anticipated BFNL season.

Whilst East Point have the wood over Bacchus Marsh, unbeaten from their last five meets, contrasting off seasons in the player movement space sees the Cobras in with their best chance to win at Eastern Oval since their last success at the venue back in 2018.

Kangas’ coach Joe Carmody will need all of his (professional) teaching acumen to fall into place having lost four (top end) Premiership players, if they’re to maintain their impeccable run of finals appearances.

A-Grade talent in the form of Matthew and Jordy Johnston and forward Bryson McDougall will border on the impossible to replace in the short term but Carmody will embrace the opportunity for promising next gen talent to consolidate their untapped potential.

Ironically Matty Johnston and McDougall did not play in either of the Kangas’ two wins over the Cobras last year.

Bacchus Marsh coach Dennis Armfield won’t be taking anything for granted ahead of Friday knowing his opponents have won 17 of their last 18 home games over and beyond a two season stretch.

However, Armfield and his legion of Cobra fans can be assured Friday’s match up looms their best chance of walking away from Eastern Oval with the premiership points for some time.

The rationale comes not only on the back of those key exits from the Kangas but handy gains of their own.

Up to six ready-made (some familiar) senior players have arrived at the Cobras, with Joel Freeman, Sam Griffiths, Billy Griffiths, Hamish Coulton, Zach Vesty and Hugh Canning all capable of immediate impact.

That’s not including Jake Owen and Isaac Nixon who only played 15 games last year. Owen was the only player in the competition to average over four goals per game in 2025.

In fact, only Sunbury’s Jake Sutton and Melton’s Braedan Kight have kicked more goals than Owen across the competition in their last 50 games.

While Kangas’ pair Jacob Brown and Jarrod Joyce will shoulder much of the load hitting the scoreboard given their aerial qualities, Carmody will be hopeful returns on the goal front from dangerous trio Jack Jeffrey, Liam Canny and Alex Molan exceed cameos.

Despite the likelihood of the Kangas fielding up to six teenagers you can guarantee they will be well led across the three areas of the field.

Jackson Merrett (defence), Liam Canny (Captain) and Mickitja Rottumah-Onus (midfield), and Jacob Brown (forward) are likely to assume the verbal directives on field aiming to hold a desperate Cobras quiver at bay.

It’s over to Bacchus Marsh for mine, given the Kangas have (to varying degrees) labelled their coming season a development year in what promises to be a tough competition to earn a finals berth.

That’s smart of the Kangas to relinquish some of the early pressures to bounce, while tempering any external expectations in the process.

Given the even spread of talent at the Cobras, compliance to Armfield’s system will play a huge role in how far they go in 2026 after a return to finals last year.

Up to six bona fide inclusions for the Cobras suggest they’re every bit a work in progress for the here and now having only one practice match against Williamstown CYMS under their belts to build and resemble the kind of connection Armfield would be striving for.

East Point have predominantly played their ‘kids’ over their build up into the new season with humble returns if indeed the scoreboard was deemed relevant. Looking forward to seeing Kangas’ new recruit Sam Lucas (Cobden) with an intercept role across half back earmarked for the recent club best and fairest winner.

It’s a flip of the coin game on paper despite the Kangas’ superior H2H record of recent times.

There’s something in the air on the win/loss front this game will mean more for the Cobras down the track as the season long race to earn one of six prized positions at the business end officially begins.

Scoops tip: Bacchus Marsh by 6 points.

Scoop Reviews Good Friday

The Cobras impressed winning all four quarters on their way to a 51-point win over the Kangaroos at Eastern Oval, their first success at the venue in eight years.

The nature of the win was arguably the most pleasing for coach Dennis Armfield in his 36th game in charge, now into a third season.

The Cobras’ willingness to run, support and share the footy gave every indication of the testing material moving forward.

While there were questions raised around where East Point were at given 11 absentees from their first semi-final side of 2025, the takeaway was more about the improvement of the Cobras.

The six newcomers have added considerable depth quality and versatility to Armfield’s armoury.

Defender Zach Vesty and small forward Billy Griffiths (four goals) impressed first up joining future star Josh Huxtable (three goals) among vote contention.

The Cobras finished with an even spread of nine goal kickers after posting their highest half time score (10.5) under Armfield.

Kangaroos’ forward Jack Jeffrey (five goals) fought out the battle to the very end despite growing separation on the scoreboard.

Youngster Fraser Molan impressed with his composure and decision making under pressure while crucial trio Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, Joe Dodd and Jacob Brown (two goals) will be better for the run.

What did we learn?

The Cobras exciting, free running brand displayed on Good Friday shifts the weight of expectation on proven match winner Jake Owen (three goals) for the better.

East Point’s ‘reset of sorts’ was confirmed, albeit a small sample size.

STAT STARS

Josh Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) – 32 disposals, 9 marks, 6 clearances

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) – 62 hit outs, 18 disposals, 5 tackles

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point) – 27 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 13 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
Overall, free flowing game. Well done to Dennis and his boys as their pressure and work rate was excellent. Bacchus Marsh leg speed and ball movement from the back half split us open and created a lot of easy goals. We take some positives out of the experience considering the lack of experience within the team. Ball movement and contest was okay at times. Transition into defence needs a lot of work. The more games we can get in to the players the quicker the development.

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
Overall, really proud of the group today. Having not won at East point since 2018, we knew they were going to bring the heat and be up for a fight. And to stay playing our way for four quarters was a huge positive. All players had their moments and raised to the occasion. Happy to see the buy in filtering through our whole group, with our reserves having a good win too and our 18s being very competitive.

The A Grade season gets underway in blockbuster fashion this Good Friday on the 3^rd of April 2026, with East Point Netball Club hosting Bacchus Marsh Netball Club at Eastern Oval from 2:30pm.

These two sides built a tight rivalry across 2025, with Bacchus Marsh getting the upper hand on both occasions.

They claimed a 6-goal win in their first meeting before backing it up in Round 14 with a narrow 3-goal victory.

With margins that slim, expect another fiercely contested battle to open the 2026 campaign.

East Point will be eager to turn the tables on their home court, led by shooting combination Keele Hillas (GS) and Jeremi Robinson (GA).

Through the midcourt, Bridey McElligott (WA) and Rhiannon White (C) will look to provide strong drive and connection, while Bella Stevens (WD), Sarah Augustine (GD) and Stella Geljon (GK) form a defensive unit ready to apply pressure from the first whistle.

They’ll have depth to call on from the bench with Lily McGuinness, Abby Kinnersly and Tess Geljon.

Bacchus Marsh, however, will arrive full of confidence following last season’s results.

Their attacking end features Kimberly Philipps (GS) and Jasmine Paama (GA), supported by experienced midcourters Melissa Prismall (WA) and Eliza Moodie (C).

Defensively, Ella Logan (WD), Georgia Shattock (GD) and Avana Hobson (GK) will be tasked with shutting down East Point’s scoring opportunities, with Remy Day and Jaimee Walsh providing options off the bench.

Off the court, there are strong storylines developing in the coaching ranks.

Bacchus Marsh will again be guided by Nicole Gleeson in her second season at the helm, bringing continuity and confidence into the new year.

Meanwhile, East Point enters an exciting new chapter, with Kirsty McLean in her second year now joined by Josh Wells, who steps into his first season at the Club as Co-Coach of the A Grade side.

With both sides boasting strong line-ups, experienced coaching and recent history suggesting nothing will separate them easily, this Good Friday clash shapes as a must-watch to kick off the A Grade season.

The McDonald’s Ballarat Football Netball League (BFNL) Board is pleased to announce the 2026 BFNL Senior Fixture.

The League will once again deliver a full 18-round home-and-away season, followed by an exciting
finals series set to showcase the region’s top football and netball talent.

The 2026 season will open with a Good Friday showcase, headlined by East Point and Bacchus Marsh.

Round 1 will commence on Saturday 11 April, featuring local derbies between all Ballarat-based clubs, while the Eastern block teams will also face off in a major early-season highlight.

ANZAC Day will be strongly represented in Round 3, with several twilight matches scheduled to
commemorate the occasion.

Sunday football will also return in 2026, with four clubs linking senior matches with their junior programs.

Themed rounds remain a major feature of the BFNL calendar.

Wellness Round—spanning two weeks—returns to provide clubs the opportunity to promote and support causes important to their communities.

Sir Doug Nicholls Round and the Ronald McDonald House Charity Round will also return,
reinforcing the League’s commitment to celebration, inclusion and community connection.

Interleague football and netball will take centre stage during the first league-wide bye, with BFNL Under 23 Football and Netball, Under 18 Girls, and Under 18 Boys travelling to Hampden for the annual representative competition.

A second full-competition bye will occur during the middle week of school holidays.

After a thrilling 2025 season full of high-quality competition, the BFNL is excited for what 2026 will
bring.

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.

The Ballarat Football Netball League (BFNL) is pleased to announce that AFL Victoria has formally approved the transfer of the Gisborne Football Netball Club from the Bendigo Football Netball League to the Ballarat Football Netball League, effective from the commencement of the 2027 season.

The approval follows the completion of the transfer process in accordance with the AFL Victoria Community Affiliate Regulations.

The BFNL submitted its Intention to Accept application on 30 June 2026, with AFL Victoria confirming that the Bendigo Football Netball League did not lodge an objection to the proposed transfer.

The addition of Gisborne Football Netball Club marks an exciting milestone for the BFNL and reflects the continued strength and growth of community football and netball across the region.

BFNL General Manager Gemma Murphy said the League was pleased to have the process formally completed.

"We welcome Gisborne Football Netball Club to the Ballarat Football Netball League and look forward to them joining our competition in 2027," Murphy said.

"Throughout this process, our focus has been on following the appropriate governance framework and ensuring all requirements under the AFL Victoria Community Affiliate Regulations were met. We appreciate the cooperation of AFL Victoria and the Bendigo Football Netball League in facilitating the process."

The BFNL also acknowledges the support of its member clubs, who voted in favour of Gisborne Football Netball Club joining the League at a Special General Meeting earlier this month. Gisborne Football Netball Club will commence competition in the Ballarat Football Netball League across football and netball from the 2027 season.

The BFNL looks forward to working closely with Gisborne Football Netball Club over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition into the League and to continuing to provide a strong, sustainable and competitive football and netball competition for all member clubs

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.

The BFNL is seeking an experienced and highly organised Football Operations Manager to lead the administration and delivery of football competitions across the League.

This key leadership position is responsible for competition management, governance and
compliance, stakeholder engagement, representative football programs, and supporting the
continued growth of football throughout the BFNL.

The role also provides leadership and support to the Female Football Coordinator.

The position works closely with clubs, umpires, AFL Victoria, councils, and other stakeholders to
ensure the successful operation and ongoing development of BFNL football programs.

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your experience and suitability for the role to: Gemma Murphy - General Manager (Ballarat Football Netball League).

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Applications close Friday 3 July 2026.

See full role advert and position desription below.

At The Bar

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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

At The Bar

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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).

At The Bar

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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

At The Bar

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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.

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?

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

At The Bar

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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

At The Bar

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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)

At The Bar

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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).