TALES. Pra. Practise. ise. Pract. ise. Practise. Practise. Practise. Leading to GC. Inside:

Transcription

1 ise. ise. Pra Practise. ise. e. Practise. ise. s i Pract Pr Practise. Practise. Practise. Practise. Make sure you get enough practice on all kinds of roads. 120 hours practice. Experience not excuses. Leading to GC September 2008 TALES sandringhamdragons.aflvic.com.au Inside: -MAGPIE CHRIS DAWES -METRO ROUND-UP -HAWK TOM MURPHY

2 proudly supported by: 2008 TAC Cup team - round 17 Celebrating: Tom McMahon, Jack Purton-Smith, Kwame McHarg and Keiffer Smith-Cameron Ben Kennedy and Nicholas Wynne website: sandringhamdragons.aflvic.com.au location: D.C. Bricker Pavilion, Princes Park, Caulfield South mail: PO Box 101 Caulfield South sdragons@bigpond.net.au phone: fax: managing editor: Tikali Nicholls editorial contributors: Daniel Shea, Dale Martin, Jack Palizzo, Chris Dawes, Tikali Nicholls. photographic contributors: Daryll Hunt, Jennifer Stenglein,Tikali Nicholls printer: Australian Supplies and Printing special thanks to: work-experience contributers Jack, Dale and Dan. The families who helped our Fundraising Evening be a great success. front cover: Under 16 Vic Metro players Ben Jacobs (Captain) and Jack Hutchins (Vice-Captain) advertising: mediasd@bigpond.net.au Sandringham Dragons Kyle Martin Tyson Thomas 2 - DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au 120 hours practice. Experience not excuses.

3 For a mere two and a half hours... people can forget whatever might be going on in their lives. Jonno Nash change room banter with shane o bree magpie great gets drilled by players when he joined the TAC under 18 s group at training 28 the early years collingwood youngster chris dawes shares his journey as he aims to improve in the afl + collingwood s forward coach blake caracella spills on the clubs appraisal of chris 30 running forward past player daniel corp s journey after his last game in through my eyes 35 afl player profile jonno nash rounds out the season with his thoughts with hawthorn s tom murphy features I ve realised that I don t lack the ability Chris Dawes 28 contents I ve learnt you must continue to listen, learn and execute. Taylor Hunt 19 8 vodafone under 15 academdy participant Matt Blee shares his life and experience with the under 15 s program 10 vodafone under 16 academdy catching up with dale martin and daniel shea 14 TAC under 18 meet new recruit max gawn from ormond + captain jaryd robertson shares his wise words leading to GC AFL NAB National Championships dragon representatives dominate on the national stage in numbers 4 - DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES

4 Vodafone Carnival Trevor Barker Oval 23rd September -3rd October

5 Vodafone under 15 s training squad Player Profile: Matt Blee Name: Matt Blee Age: 15 Club: St Pauls At school: Math, Science, English, PE, Drama and Music. AFL team: Go the Sainters. Heroes: My family - because they re always there when I need to be taken to footy training and they turn up to every single match no matter what. I am supported by: My family and my friends - especially one of my best mates Mitchell Hurley who is in the Dragons program with me; so he knows exactly what I am feeling. Goals: To succeed in life, and keep playing footy for as long as I possibly can - whether that be in AFL or at a local senior club. Arriving at the Dragons: When I first got the letter from the Dragons I was really nervous and didn t know whether to stress over it or be really happy. Once I got into the fi rst meeting the coaches had a chat to all the boys and told us what the program was going to be like. When all the coaches had fi nished speaking I knew that the Dragons program would be a lot of fun and at the same time, I d learn how the game of footy is played at the top level. What the Dragons is like now: Now that I have settled in at the Dragons, I have realised how many friends I have made through the program. People that have kicked the goal to beat us in the last minute of play (Hamo) in a local game now do drills with me and make jokes in the group. Hardest thing about the Dragons so far: The hardest thing would defi nitely be starting training at 4:15pm and having to fi nish school at 3:15pm. You do not really have much time to relax. Best thing about the Dragons so far: Making new friends and learning new things. We train as we want to play - at full intensity Mick Roberts, Vodafone Under 15 s Development Coach Vodafone under 15 s training squad 8 - DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 9

6 Vodafone under 16 s Academy Name: Dale Martin Age: 16 Club: Cheltenham Junior Football Club School: St Bedes College, Mentone Like about the Dragons: Defi natly the football, learning so many new things but also the social aspect of the club, meeting new people and enjoying the time spent around the club. Dragons history: I started in the U15 s along with 120 other boys but have really enjoyed moving up into the less crowded 16 s squad and training with the 18 s. Goals at the Dragons: As well as become a better player and person, to really just consistently train well and come the September legends carnival hopefully I can put together some good performances, but my ultimate goal is to make the TAC Team of Funniest player in my Dragons group: They re all clowns. Hayden Jeans thinks he s pretty funny I ll have to give him a mention. Subjects at school: PE, English, Math, Outdoor Education, Geography, Health, RE AFL team: Western Bulldogs Hero: All my mates and Mum, she s a bit of a legend. Player Profiles: Dale Martin Daniel Shea Name: Daniel Shea Age: 16 Club: Mordialloc Braeside Junior Football Club School: St Bedes College, Mentone Like about the Dragons: Football skills learnt and positive atmosphere around the club. Dragons history: I came out into the 15 s but missed the games in September to follow through to the 16 s. Luckily I was being watched in my grand fi nal for Mordi Brae, where I played well and earned my spot in the squad. Expectations this year in football/ at the Dragons: Continue to learn about football which will help me as a player and person. Goals for this year at a football level at Dragons: To improve my work ethic, kicking skill and to hopefully make the 18 s squad. Thoughts of the coaching staff: They re all really good, they know the game well, have great experience and there are a wide range of coaches for different aspects of the game. Subjects: Math, English, RE, PE, Biology and History Funniest: Jack Frost AFL team: Hawthorn Hero: Matt Boland Supported by: Family and close friends. Vodafone under 16 s Academy Dale Martin Daniel Shea 10 - DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.aflvic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 11

7 under 15 s carnival games under 16 s carnival games 12 - DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 13

8 Max Gawn s journey into TAC Football. The call came through to the offi ce in early May. Why don t you have this Ormond boy on your list? He s 200cm! Two weeks passed and on Sunday, May 18 at Deakin Reserve, Shepparton, wearing number 31 for the Dragons, there was Max Gawn. This young 16 year old showed his style and thoroughly enjoyed the impromptu step-up to the TAC. Post match Max said [TAC football] it s a lot quicker and has less stoppages (then in his local football games with Ormond FC). I felt pretty confi dent going into it, being 10cm taller than Max Gawn everyone else but they sure can jump. Max s quick entry into the TAC team was applauded by Gawn s class mates as he returned on Monday to fi nd his game pictures on all the walls at McKinnon Secondary. Max is like many young footballers in the region, happy playing the game he loves. At Ormond, the Dragons or where ever the future takes him, Max says he knows he needs to not change my game pending on the situation just remain focused [on his role in the team]. Under 16 s player Dale Martin asks TAC Under 18 s team captain Jaryd Robertson a few pressing questions. DM: What do you think of the program? Do you think the program helps players in life other than footy? JR: The program is very rewarding. Having been involved since day one of Under15 s. I have built Jaryd Robertson protected by Xavier Murphy many solid friendships and been given such valuable advice. The program helps you outside of footy with such things as leadership, setting goals, and taught me how to go about achieving those goals. DM: What sort of coach is Jarrod Molloy? JR: Jarrod Molloy is the type of coach that tells it how it is. With Jarrod having played so many seasons at AFL level, he has enormous knowledge of the game, which he imparts to us. He puts in a huge workload and not only does he want us all to succeed at football, but also in everything we do in life. DM: What sort of group is the TAC Under 18 s? JR: The Under 18 group this year is very close. There is a lots of mateship and there are no individuals. The group is very hard working and extremely dedicated. There are a few funny characters amongst us, who will always provide us with a laugh when required. Shane O Bree gets hit hard with the tough questions by Harley Ambrose, Clay Johnston and Xavier Murphy. HA: Would you say that you were one of the cool kids at school? SO: I was one of those guys who got along well with the nerds, I had a good mix of the nerds and geeks and cool kids. I had a good mix and bonded pretty well with everyone. CJ: Do you prefer to wear Clokes or jumpers? SO: Jumpers. CJ: Is it true that Scott Burns is afraid of fires? SO: No he is afraid of the sun. CJ: When Scott Pendlebury has the ball, running down the wing, do you yell out decision pending? SO: Nah, I haven t heard that one yet. CJ: Do you still think you are better than Molloy at footy? SO: For sure! Around the Dragons -TAC CUP under 18 s update Max Gawn Captain: Jaryd Robertson Xavier Murphy, Harley Ambrose and Clay Johnston - Catching up with Shane O Bree Community Coaching Development Coaching development sessions were held for the regions coaches for the first time between May and July, as a part of the Dragons efforts to develop football in the region. Over three successful evenings attendees from Auskick, junior, school and senior football joined together to learn from our guest speakers Grant Thomas, Kelly O Donnell and Bernadette Vaux (from Coaching Partners). Sharing their knowledge in relationships, development and communication these speakers certainly left their audiences with a wealth of information and skills to return to their home clubs with. Peter Shakallis Pat Liston Pat Liston Tackling Football in the holidays. School holiday program was a blast for some action packed youngsters on Monday, July 7. Attending a football clinic with our players; Pat Liston, Peter Shakallis, Peter Gleadhill and Jonno Nash. The 60 primary school aged children from the City of Glen Eira s YMCA Recreation Centre took on our players coaching skills for an hour of games and football skill development, exhausting both participants and teaching players. At the conclusion many curve ball questions and statements (including knock, knock jokes and what the difference between..?) were asked of players. With each response ending in laughter by all the young participants they certainly had a great time. School Holiday Program with Saint Jason Blake Around the Dragons -community participation AFL Respect and Responsibility On Friday, June 27 our TAC players were given a presentation on Respect and Responsibility from the AFL. The players were joined by guest speakers such as AFL past player Jason McCartney. The presentation discussed the roles people play in their communities and the meanings - morally and legally - of respect and responsibility. McCartney discussed cultural concepts, actions and attitudes and asked the players to strive to be your best by making good choices. This was the overall theme of the discussion where players left knowing they are their choices. For more details regarding the AFL Respect and Responsibility Program please contact: respect&responsibility@afl.com.au. On Tuesday, July 8 the Dragons conducted a school holiday program for Under 13, 14 and 15 boys in the region with an interest in football. The day was established to expose the Dragons programs that could be on offer to the group in later years. The day included testing similar to that at the draft camp. Coordinator Tom Mitchell said, the young group really enjoyed the speed and leap tests, other tests included: the beep, agility, height and weight. Following testing, Wayne Hughes, Carlton Recruiting Manager, provided some insight about what recruiters look for in draft prospects and some of the habits the boys would need to start getting into if they were hoping to be drafted in a few years time. Dragon s TAC Under 18 s Fitness Coordinator Andrew Barden spoke to the group about diet, fitness and strength. Then a skills session with Peter Banfield, coach of Old Scotch; followed by David Dunbar, Assistant Coach at Melbourne, who took them through handball and kicking techniques. The group then hit the track with a training session with senior 18 s coach, Jarrod Molloy, who lead the boys through some competitive drills and goal kicking that the Dragons TAC team does. Finally, and the highlight of the day was a motivational speech from St Kilda player, Jason Blake, who discussed goal setting, sacrifice and some of the things that are required at an elite level. Those fortunate enough to hear Jason, really enjoyed his words and gained some insight about the everyday mindset of AFL players. The day was a success and something the Dragons look forward to building upon in years to come as we try to get our youngsters into some good habits early and most of all enjoy the thrills of the great game that is football DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.aflvic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 15

9 2008 TAC CUP 16 - DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 17

10 My Vic Metro Experience By Ben Jacobs Through the journey with the Vic metro team I have learnt that it is important to trust and believe in yourself, to keep applying your skills to the best of your ability and not to second guess yourself and you will succeed. The most enjoyable experience for me during the carnival, apart from our wins and the friendships that were made, was the professional approach that James Veale our fi tness trainer, took with us. No warm up, cool down or recovery was ever compromised he gave us the same attention that he would give to elite athletes. I enjoyed playing against the larger football states, particularly Western Australia, as they are always very passionate and physical. As Captain I was conscious of playing a leadership role, while still focusing on the preparation for my own game. It was very challenging at times but I feel like I am a better, stronger person for the experience. I gave 100 percent to the role as I know we all did. It was a great honor, and an experience that I will never forget. Ben Jacobs and fellow Dragon representatives; Tom Nicholls, Daniel Farmer and Jack Hutchins have successfully made the 2008 NAB AFL Under 16 s National Championships. In a carnival on the Gold Coast, between the July 25 and August 3 the boys played against their interstate rivals. The Dragons would like to congratulate these talented young men on their efforts and wish them good luck heading into the Championships Grand Final on Saturday, September 27, at the MCG against Western Australia. Tyrone kicking the opening goal in game fi ve at Telstra Dome NAB AFL Under 18 National Championships Participants Tom Lynch, Haileybury College Interview with Jack Hutchins before the National Championships By Dale Martin Ben Jacobs, Brighton Grammar Age: 16 School: Haileybury College AFL Team: Carlton Previous Club: Mansfi eld FC DM:Firstly, how did you first get involved with the Dragons? JH: I got a letter last year, came down and from there got out into the (Vic) Metro selection. DM: So what were the tryouts like? JH: They were pretty intense, they tried us out in different positions to try and expose us a little. DM:From playing with Hailbury to now coming up against the countries best are you confident your team can have some success? JH:Yeah, we ve got a strong team with lots of talls so we should go alright. I m pretty confi dent. DM: You ve been awarded the Vice Captaincy, is that something you were expecting? JH: Nah, not at all. They sat us all down and told us and I was I was rapt about it. DM: Who do you believe will be your toughest opponent in the next week or so? JH: Western Australia usually go alright. We play them on Monday (28th July). South Australia and (Vic) Country should be tough as well. DM: What is the vibe amongst the players? JH: Nervous and a bit anxious but once we start playing, hopefully the adrenalin should kick in and we can play some good footy. Co-Captain Tom at the post Championships presentation. Kyle making his mark on the MCG in game one vs. Vic Country. Tyrone Vickery, Haileybury College Jack Watts, Brighton Grammar Taylor Hunt, Beaumaris FC Taylor Gilchrist, Caulfield Grammar Sam McGarry, St Bedes Kyle Martin, Haileybury College Jack Hutchins, Haileybury College Tom Nicholls, Cheltenham FC Daniel Farmer, Haileybury College Vic Metro Participants for 08 -Under 16 s (L-R) Ben, Tom, Jack and Daniel 2008 Vic Metro Team (L-R) Ben Jacobs (c) and Jack Hutchins (vc) 18 - DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au (L-R) Tyrone, Taylor Hunt, Tom, Jack, Sam and Taylor Gilchrist. Game 5 vs. WA at Telstra Dome. Words by Daniel Shea The Sandringham Dragons were well represented in the 2008 NAB AFL U18 Championships. Playing for the Vic Metro team from the Dragons was: Jack Watts, Tyrone Vickery, Tom Lynch, Samuel McGarry, Kyle Martin, Taylor Hunt and Taylor Gilchrist. The Vic Metro team played fi ve games against Vic Country, Tasmania, South Australia, NSW/ACT and Western Australia. Vic Metro played well during the tournament, showcasing their talents and beating most opposition in excess of fi ve goals. One game, however, the first against the Vic Country side came right down to the wire, with Jack Watts kicking the winning goal to secure a three point win for the Metro. The Vic Metro Team ran out winners of the NAB AFL Championships after they extended their unbeaten run to fi ve games, when they defeated Western Australia by 29 points at Telstra Dome on Wednesday, July 9. Taylor Hunt says his memorable experience was playing in my fi rst game for Vic Metro against Tasmania in Hobart. It was exciting and then to improve on my performances in each game was something I never expected. The ultimate was to play in the fi nal at the Telstra Dome and to play with and against players who will be drafted. Playing on Hamish Hartlett and performing well, gave me great sense of achievement, given he is being touted as a top ten draft pick, said Hunt. Playing in the tournament was a great experience for all the young men, Taylor said he learnt to have more self belief in [his] ability and more confi dence in decision making. Playing for your coach and team mates is more important than anything in football. You must continue to listen, learn and execute. You must always aspire to improve and to play the perfect game. The greater effort you put in, the greater the rewards. We would like to congratulate all our players and Jack Watts on winning the Larke Medal for best and fairest player. sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 19

11 2008 COACHES MVP Stephen Muller 2008 BEST & FAIREST Mathew Suckling 2008 COACH Jarrod Molloy 2008 PLAYERS MVP Taylor Hunt 2008 BEST FIRST YEAR PLAYER Peter Gleadhill nd BEST & FAIREST Zach Sengstock rd BEST & FAIREST Sam McGarry 20 - DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 21

12 AFL/AIS Under 17 Scholars Jack Watts Tom Lynch Jack Watts The AIS-AFL Academy is part of a commitment made by the AFL and the Australian Sports Commission, through the Australian Institute of Sport, to support 30 of Australian football s best young players with their football and education development in their last year of junior football. The AIS-AFL Academy offers 12-month AIS scholarships following the NAB AFL Under 16 Championships. The Academy offers expert and personal skill development from the Australian Institute of the Sport and the AFL including the opportunity to represent Australia at an Under 17 level in an International Youth Series. In the programs 11th intake Dragon representatives; Jack Watts (Brighton Grammar) and Tom Lynch (Haileybury College) have participated. Tom and Jack both speak very highly of the program and the experiences it has given them. Earlier in January, Jack and Tom were placed in the St Kilda FC and the Melbourne FC, (respectively) for a weeks worth of work experience and then toured with the AIS group to Perth then onto South Africa. Where they not just played football but got a fantastic opportunity to experience the South African culture and see the beautifull country. Jack Hutchins (Haileybury College) and Tom Nicholls (Cheltenham FC) have been invited in the AIS-AFL Academy s 12th intake for Auskick Superclinic 9th August In partnership with Melbourne FC All Australian Qualifiers The Sandringham Dragons would like to congratulate Tom Nicholls (U16), Jack Hutchins (U16), Tyrone Vickery (U18) and Jack Watts (U18) on their being chosen for their respective All Australian teams. It is a fantastic achievement to be listed in the top 22 of the country and we are all very proud of these fi ne young men. Tom Nicholls Jack Hutchins Tyrone Vickery Jack Watts 22 - DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 23

13 Region Round-Up VAFA Under 19 s By Greg Roberts MSJFL By Tom Nicholls APS By Luke Lowden VAFA Under 19 s Review by Greg Roberts, St Bedes/Mentone Tigers A.F.C. Under the experienced guidance of Owen Lalor ( former Old Melburnians U/19 Coach ) and Brian Bourke (former Dragons and Stingrays Development Coach), the St.Bedes team began the season full of hope and expectation. New recruits included current Dragon Pat Liston along with former Dragons Pat Nicholls and Pat Tyquin. Mick Meehan was in front of goal, when school commitments permitted. As well, former Dragons Jack Hellier lier and the Richards twins Chris and Simon were in the midfi eld. This meant that should all go well, a successful season awaited. The boys started well with a win, but hit a bump with a round 2 loss to De La Salle. Led by Dragon of 2007 Olme Slavatore and current Dragons Ned Murphy and Ryan Harris the opposition were too good on this day. As the season wore on it became clear that De La Salle and Scotch would be the teams to beat. The coach was optimistic, isti tic, that with an even en spread of talent throughout the squad, they would be there come the fi nal game of the year. From this point on, the Beda boys began to combine as a formidable unit and good results kept coming. It was not long before Pat Nicholls, Jack Hellier and the Richards twins were elevated to the Senior team as a reward for their excellent ent form. With Pat Liston on Dragons duties the depth of the squad was going to be tested. ed. Alex Kane (brother of former Dragon Jono) along with the captain Gavin Brown and Pat Kean took up the challenge and the boys continued to put wins on the board. With a number of call ups from the club s second U/19 team, as well as a couple of students from the College 1st XVIII fi lling in, the team won their re-match with De La Salle. In the second semi fi nal the two met again, resulting in a big win to the boys from Mentone and a disappointment for the boys from Malvern. However, De La knocked over Scotch in the preliminary and at the time of printing the two rivals will once again meet to decide the champion team of NB. The St.Bede s Senior team with Nicholls, Hellier, and the two Richards boys defeated the hot favourites Collegians, to qualify for their fi rst ever Amateur A Grade Grand Final. MSJFL Review by Tom Nicholls, Cheltenham Panthers. G day all, my name is Tom Nicholls but my friends call me chocolate man and I am still not sure why. Anyway, I recently finished my footy season with the Cheltenham Panthers in the MSJFL (Moorabbin Saints Junior Footy League). The year started with a bang for Cheltenham as we continued our hot winning streak from last year with a record of 30 straight wins. However our season came to a pocket of ground turbulence as we were plagued with the usual mid season injury cloud. At one stage we had current Dragon player Dale Martin out due to a broken toe and suspected broken foot and Mitch Ryan out with a little cough and Jordan Wearne out, also. None the less we persisted on for the next few weeks and managed to keep our winning streak intact. The next few weeks fl ew by as I was unable to play as a result of other football commitments. When I got back and attended my fi rst training session since I had gone, it was one to remember forever. It was a very rainy day and there were mud patches everywhere, despite James Shanahan playing like a pig in mud our coach, the almighty Garry Brown took a turn for the worse and landed face fi rst in the mud, it was so funny, you should have been there. It was now fi nals time and we had started knuckling down big, no MASSIVE, time. Recent Dragon recruit, Jack Jansson had sacrifi ced his late nights (8:45pm) then turned his focus back to the team. We fi nished the season as minor premiers but that did not mean anything to us. Our goal was our second premiership in a row. Our fi rst semi fi nal was against arch rivals, St. Peters (what did St. Peter ever do anyway?) and suffered a loss, by fi ve whole points! We were shattered with the loss but bounced back the next week to deliver a knock out blow to Caulfi eld Dragon-Bears by roughly a couple of sausage rolls (2 goals). Grand fi nal day had come and to make a long story short; St. Peters were victorious by 62 points. It was a grim day for mankind. APS Review by Luke Lowden, Caulfield Grammar. The 2009 season was touted by many, to be one of the most thrilling seasons in the Associated Private Schools history. With names like Jack Zieball, Tyrone Vickery, Tom Lynch, Casey Sibarsado, Jack Watts and Jordan Lisle running around for their respective schools it was very easy to get excited about what was to APS lie ahead for all involved. I came to Caulfi eld Grammar this year as a year 11 student from Shepparton and the Murray Bushrangers, having no idea what to expect stepping up to such a high standard of footy. Caulfi eld Grammar had a respectable line up but was not nearly as good on paper as last years Caulfi eld premiership team. The usual suspects including Haileybury, Xavier and Brighton were expected to drift around the top of the ladder whilst Carey and Wesley were tipped to round off the bottom of the ladder. Caulfi eld struggled to hit any real form throughout the season due to state commitments for Taylor Gilchrist (Vic Metro), Jack Zieball (Vic Country) and Taylor Duryea (New South Wales) and injuries sustained by Jonno Nash (Sandringham Dragons), Matt Pianto (Murray Bushrangers) and Jared Risol (Gippsland Power). Caulfi eld fi nished the season with a win loss ratio of 4 wins and 6 losses which was a disappointing result with eventual premiers Melbourne Grammar getting the edge over Haileybury for the 2008 APS premiership based on for and against results. It was an enjoyable season playing with your mates from school and is something you cannot take for granted and with a big summer lying ahead of us I m hoping for a better result next year. ACC Review by Ryan Harris, De La Salle College. The Associated Catholic Colleges football season was one that threatened to rival the likes of such AGS, APS schools with accumulated talent. The ACC talent was put up for showcase for the 08 season, displaying strong school spirit and indication into the potential of many aspiring young footballers. De La Salle took out a rare double, winning the Senior Division One and Division Two football fi nals convincingly at Elsternwick Park on June 18. Both teams remained undefeated throughout the season having close rivalry rounds between St Bernard s College and also Whitefriars. Through experiencing the standard and competitiveness of TAC Cup football environment, it was evident the amount of talent and strength the players brought back into the ACC Competition. Both De La Salle and St. Joseph s Geelong progressed through to respective Herald Sun Shield Semi fi nals and both narrowly being defeated while Assumption College, who took out the Herald Sun Shield Victoria wide. In other news St Bedes have fi red a warning out to rival ACC schools that they have a couple of big years ahead, winning both Year 9 and 10 Division One Premierships. The ACC continues to display exceptional players and a quality brand of football. AGS Review by Mitch Brown, Mentone Grammar. Associated Grammar School footy is certainly a big step up from club footy as most schools have many TAC Cup players in their teams. The pressure is always on, the skills are better and the pace is a lot quicker. Historically, the AGS competition has been dominated by the bigger schools such as Assumption, Marcellin, PEGS and Trinity but in recent times the competition has evened up. After a solid pre-season and with the injection of seven very good year 10 boys into the team we (Mentone Grammar) believed that we had the fi repower and talent to take it up to the stronger schools. The boys were exceptionally keen on the morning of our fi rst round clash against the powerful Assumption College. In beautiful conditions the game was played at a very high standard with both teams displaying great footy. We certainly shocked Assumption with our intensity and after a see-sawing affair the scores were level at ¾ time. With the hard working Keiffer Smith- Cameron on top in the midfi eld all day, we were confi dent of causing an upset. Early in the fi nal term, Keiffer burst through the middle and spotted me up perfectly at CHF and a goal resulted to put us in front. Unfortunately Assumption rallied and we ran out of legs to go down in a close one. The challenges kept coming as in the next round we took on last years premiers Penleigh Essendon Grammar (PEGS) and we certainly got a football lesson. Jackson Trengove was dominant in this match. Even though we had not won a game our morale was still very good and our preparation leading into the Peninsula Grammar match was excellent. With Stingray players Goodingham and Pitt up and about, Peninsula were going to be tough, but with our big AGS man, Tom McMahon, controlling the ruck and Georgie Rowlands in our engine room, we were able to match them in all areas and we recorded a memorable victory in a high scoring game. We easily accounted for an undermanned Ivanhoe in the next round and our attention turned to the big match of the year against Marcellin. Marcellin had defeated us by over 120 points last year and we were keen to earn a little respect. Marcellin is a very powerful school with many Northern Knights and Oakleigh Chargers players in the team. In a tough encounter the match was a beauty where high scoring, physical clashes and uncompromising football were to the fore. We lead all day until Vic Metro player Luke Stanton, who had been quiet for most of the game, took a mark on the fi nal siren. Under extreme pressure he slotted the goal to leave us devastated. Mentone Grammar had not won three in a row for quite some time and we came so close. I was lucky to kick a few but it was with the help of our leadership group in Keiffer, Tom McMahon, Hayden Pyke and Matt Hinds who were brilliant on the day, that we nearly created the upset of the year. The Herald Sun Shield was in full cry by now and Assumption was taking on and defeating all comers. With Jaimie Sheehan dominating, Assumption swept all before them to take out their umpteenth Herald Sun Shield title by 6 points against Essendon Keilor College at the MCG. The loss to Marcellin the week before had certainly knocked the wind out of our sails and the boys seemed extremely fl at when they took the ground for our next assignment against Yarra Valley. With the Eastern Rangers boys, Blease, Gysberts, and Moore on fi re, YV made us look second rate. Our coach Andrew Hayes gave us a very loud talking to at ¾ time and with some positional moves we stormed home to go down by just 7 points. We won two of the remaining three matches including a 90 point victory against Peninsula in the fi nal for 5th spot. It was a great way for most of us to fi nish our school football. In a season that promised so much, we fi nished a respectable 5th. We did ok, but taking into consideration those three close losses that could have easily gone the other way, overall we believe it could have been so much better. The school footy season fi nished with the AGS versus APS match. It is always a highlight of the year and the AGS boys really supported this match with all fi t players committing to play. The AGS had not won for six years and we were very keen to restore some pride. Played under lights at Elsternwick Park we got off to a great start with Tom McMahon winning the taps and Shuey and Keiffer dominating the clearances and setting up many scoring opportunities. We certainly shocked the APS with our attack on the footy and we had set up a commanding lead by ¾ time. As expected, the APS hit back hard early in the last quarter with 4 goals in 5 minutes. Jack Bull was in everything, Jack Watts was getting plenty of it and Jonno Nash was leading from the front. Fortunately we held our nerve and kicked the last 3 goals to come away with a memorable victory. I will miss playing AGS footy. The camaraderie built up by spending each day at school with your mates and then running out with them on the footy fi eld each Saturday, is an experience I am thankful for and a memory I will never forget. ACC By Ryan Harris AGS By Mitch Brown Region Round-Up 24 - DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 25

14 TAC Film Project 2008 Driving is no joke Each year the Transport Accident Commission invests money into adolescent football development, to better educate TAC players on the importance of learning to drive safely. A challenge was set by the TAC this year to each TAC Cup team to produce video footage of players promoting road safety. This challenge was originally developed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) at the World Youth Assembly for Road Safety in Geneva in early 2007 to draw attention to the issue of road trauma and generate ideas to address the problem. The TAC and partners are pursuing to support this declaration through the Dragons, by calling on young people to recognise the issue and become part of the solution by committing to being responsible on the roads and looking out for their mates. In 2007, 332 people lost their lives on Victorian roads, this year there has been 213. The leading cause of death among young people aged worldwide is road trauma. Of the young drivers killed on Victorian roads in % were male. Thus inspiring the Dragons fi lm making process. Co-Directors: Under 18 s player Zach Sengstock and Mark Campbell, father of Tom lead the project from the beginning. Zach a current fi lm and television student at RMIT and professional Writer and Director, Mark began producing ideas...constantly bouncing any ideas off the playing group. This fi lm had to refl ect the Dragons group. So, the determined target audience is bayside teenage boys. Many questions followed after this... such as: What do they think of road safety? How are the current relevant messages portrayed? What are the reactions? What do we target? Why? How? The team decided that our group of boys were generally stereotyped as powerful individuals commonly, loud, leaders and reluctant to listen to higher authorities. Common reasons for young people risk-taking on the roads where: Peer group pressure. Impressing friends and wanting to be accepted. Going along with the crowd and not wanting to be left out. A Sense of invincibility. Taking this all into account and playing with a few concepts it was decided that we needed a subtle way to level with our audience. And the comedic hook was born. Our concept; to take the Mickey out of those who already try-whilst keeping our relativity to our players. Many hours went into the creation of our script from a variety of people but the end decision was made: by overall player feedback to refl ect our group. Filming took place on August, 15 and 16 at Swinbourne Senior Secondary College, Sandringham Secondary College and Trevor Barker Oval. Our community partner for the project was Volvo who kindly donated cars for the fi lming. The cars play a signifi cant role in our story. Our cast was predominantly made-up by Dragon players, parents and staff, with two professional actors; Paddy Macrae and Russell Gilbert giving their expertise to our story. As we use the safest car in the world in our fi lm, our message remains: that is does not matter what you drive, as a driver, you are in control of something a lot more powerful than yourself. Your decisions, your actions and your attitude, are yours alone but impact your mates, your parents, your friends and everybody on the roads. The production of the fi lm would not have eventuated if not for the tireless work, passion and resources of Mark Campbell, Zach Sengstock and their families. Thank you and thank you to those who have contributed along the way. Cast Students: Jarryd Allan Taylor Gilchrist Patrick Macrae Samuel McGarry Jonno Nash Tyrone Vickery Jack Watts Tom Campbell David Fallon Max Gawn Taylor Hunt Tom Lynch Samuel McBain Michael Millar Stephen Muller Xavier Murphy Jaryd Robertson George Rowlands Dean Saunders Keifer Smith-Cameron Jack Sperring Brett Rims: Russell Gilbert Teacher: Suzanne Sperring Coach: Jarrod Molloy Supporter one: Daryl Hunt Supporter two: Wayne Oswald Extras Tim Allan Mick Broderick Jack Bull Dylan Elkman David Bluey Gilmore Peter Gleadhill Damien Hale Sue Hunt Clay Johnston Shelley McGarry Stephen Mead Tyson Mitchem Larry Sengstock Tate Sengstock Mathew Suckling Tyson Thomas Directors: Zach Sengstock, Mark Campbell Script: Zach Sengstock, Mark Campbell and David Fallon Music: Zach Sengstock Cameraman: John Wheeler and Colin Bell Sound Recorder: Ben Banks Make-up: Ella Campbell and Elysia Raphael Cars Provided by: Bilia Volvo Hawthorn Special thanks to: Swinburne Secondary College Sandringham Secondary Col- lege Ian Penhalluriack The mums who provided food and costumes Sengstock and Campbell families for all their time and patients DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.aflvic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 27

15 The Early Years Chris Dawes Jumper: 31 DOB: 16 May 1988 Junior Club: Brighton Grammar Weight: 96kg Height: 194cm there was also noticeable tension between blacks and whites. On the trip, we were also given the opportunity to walk through a game park and go on safari. My favourite part of the trip was when a handful of injured and fi rst-year players were able to go to Capetown for two days to run clinics with some of the black communities and do some sight-seeing around the city. In December last year the rookie draft was held and Collingwood drafted an Irish rookie called Kevin Dyas, and Sandringham Dragon Luke Casey-Leigh. We were doing a clinic in Keilor at the time and I received a text message from someone at the club saying that we had drafted Luke. I was really excited that an old teammate, and mate, was coming to the same club as me. I drove him in to the club the next morning and he was full of questions. My only bit of advice was to try and remember as many names as he could and work really hard once training started. I think he has found the transition into an AFL club easier than I did, partly because he is naturally more sociable and not as shy as I am, but also because he has tried so hard a quality not lost on the coaching staff who have praised Luke for his work ethic around the club. The Club Review: Chris Dawes By Blake Caracella, Forwards Coach. Chris has worked really hard this season to be consistent. He had a few up-and-down games early on in the VFL, Chris then regained full fi tness after an interrupted preseason to pull together three to four sensational games and put a bit of consistency into his game, which made him a deserving choice when the positions in the senior team became available. Chris has improved on; his mobility, goal-kicking and marking but most of all his confi dence. Dawes brings something to the team that Collingwood rates very highly. He was drafted in the early 20 s and the word going around at the time was had he not done his knee he could of been top 10, so we have a great expectation of him. With Trav (Travis Cloke) as our key forward it gives Chris a chance to develop and work himself into a competitive forward line and be a threat for the opposition. Chris has grown a lot this year in confi dence, fi tness, intensity and as a hard worker. He has just had his review and knows where he has to get too. For those walking into a new club you have to put your head down and bum up, do the hard yards and when your chance comes use it. Blake Caracella, Forwards Coach, Collingwood FC I m midway through my second season on an AFL list and despite not yet getting a senior game, I am enjoying it all. I m trying to overcome inconsistent performances in the reserves and with any luck a senior berth is not too far away. I m not always this optimistic though. To always be struggling for form in the VFL makes me feel as though my goal of playing in the AFL is still a long way off. Especially during the early rounds this season, I ve questioned my ability and whether or not I belong at an AFL club. My pre-season was interrupted with an ankle operation at the end of our 2007 campaign, and this meant I couldn t begin running until after Christmas. I was only doing modifi ed training sessions by the time we left for a training camp in South Africa, but had resumed full training by the end of the camp. Our trip to South Africa was memorable, not because of the grueling training sessions at high altitude, but more for the cultural differences we were exposed to. In Potchefstroom the town where we were based for the majority of our time there was sadly a high level of poverty and We are both playing in our reserves side, reformed this year after we ended our affi liation with Williamstown. The club has only had three wins in its fi rst season in the VFL, but we have had some promising performances for a young side, with several younger players earning senior call-ups. Luke has been good when his body allows him to be, with his groins and hamstrings still adjusting to the rigors of senior football. My form has been pretty sub-standard, which initially caused me to doubt my ability. I have since given a lot of thought to my football and realised that I don t lack the ability to be a good senior player, otherwise I wouldn t have been drafted to begin with. It is more that ability and desire aren t quite enough; I need to couple them with a new level of professionalism and an increased work rate. If I fail to lift my work ethic, particularly at training, I will become what others have in the past wasted talent. I have made a commitment to myself to get more out of myself and this has given me greater confi dence translating into more consistent on-fi eld performances. Whether or not I get a senior game this year, or ever, remains to be seen. One thing is for sure though - it won t be through lack of trying. Since Chris has submitted this article he has debut for Collingwood, in round 19 againest Sk Kilda at the MCG. Well done Chris. A true reflection of your hard work. Past Player Chris Dawes 28 - DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 29

16 Running Forward Past Player: Daniel Corp After a junior football career fi lled with some frustrating injuries former Dragon s captain Daniel Corp is now ready for success in the wide ranging Sports industry. Corp has moved on and is now concentrating on pursuing a career in exercise science. Daniel went to school at St. Bede s, where he enjoyed school footy and being able to play with [his] mates. Daniel played junior football at the Hampton Rovers and says that it would be really enjoyable to go back and play with all of those guys once again. After four years of football with fi rst the Dragons and then the Zebras, Daniel decided to rest his failing body by going to Canada and continue his study of exercise science. Daniel s fi rst full season for the Dragons was in 2003 for the Under 18 s. It was his fi rst preseason at the club despite having already played a couple of times for the Under 16 s. Corp managed to play just half of 2003 because of injury, but in 2004 he was a regular starter having been awarded the captaincy of the club. Initially Daniel had trouble with the extra responsibilities that came with being captain of a football team. He believes that the role defi nitely affected [his] football, which accounts for his self confessed poor form at the start of But it did not take long for Daniel to grow into the role and with the help of the supportive staff around him, Daniel improved his captaincy skills and with that came his form. On being asked what Daniel would do differently if he had another chance at captaincy, He says, [I] would relax more, be prepared for any occasion and not put too much expectation on [himself]. Looking back on his time at the Dragons, Daniel realises that even though everyone at the club is trying their hardest to get drafted, it doesn t matter because, you change so much in [those] two years. Words: Jack Palazzo Corp moved on to the Zebras at the start of 2005 where he struggled to overcome various injuries which prevented him from completing a full pre-season and fi nding consistency. Daniel left the Zebras at the end of 2006 saying that their affi liation with Melbourne makes it diffi cult for the whole team to be pushing for the same thing (goal). This division happens as a result of Zebras players just looking to get back into the Melbourne team. Daniel said that it is much better to, play with who you train. This year Corp has begun playing for Frankston, but unfortunately was once again cut down by injuries. He had an interrupted pre-season and was out until round 4. Since his comeback, he has been in and out of the seniors whilst trying to regain his fi tness and start winning the one on one contests again. Outside of football, Daniel has a part time job at Sportsmart and continues his studies in exercise science at Victoria University. His course teaches him about all academic areas of human movement and it gives him a chance to appreciate the vast amount of information known on the mechanics of human movement. At the end of his course he will have turned professional in the specifi c area of his choice. At the moment, Daniel is doing work experience with the Western Bulldogs, focusing on the biomechanics involved with kicking. Daniel will fi nish his course at the end of this year and hopes to be doing hands-on-work with elite athletes in the future. With Daniel s university degree almost complete, we hope that he, as well as his old teammates from the Under 18 s of 2004, can soar to new heights, as many of them venture into employment in the ever-changing Sports industry DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 31

17 Through My Eyes By Jonno Nash The biggest and most diverse culture in the world is football. Whether it is rugby, soccer or Australian Rules, the global fan base is larger than that of any religious fi gure. The aesthetics and athleticism of this great game has the ability to break down geographical, political and social barriers that would otherwise impinge on an individual or group outside the sporting world to unify as one. The passion and dynamism expressed by the faithful supporters, whose colour of their teams badge compassionately rests across their sweat-ridden foreheads, can rise and fall upon their team s fortunes during a game. For a mere two and a half hours, on an oval-shaped grassland, defi ned by a white line, people can forget whatever might be going on in their lives and rejoice in this communal celebration of humanity. As the AFL is celebrating its 150th year, it would be foolish not to recognise the minorities who have helped build the sport into the multi-million dollar industry as it is today. As we refl ect on the years preceding our current generation, junior development football programs have advanced to what it was once in the past. In sharp contrast to many years ago, much emphasis was placed on the improvement of the physical aspects of an individual. The term core strength was never recorded in a physicist s journal but a lot was focused on running lap after lap and curling your body weight in load-bearing training. During recent times education programs, within the football community, seeks behavioural change. Football acts as a forum, which targets adolescents to adopt a new way of thinking, such as to not drink and drive and to accumulate more than120 hours of driving experience in all weather conditions. Such initiatives have been omnipresent in the TAC competition since its establishment in Secondly, many teams are aligned with qualifi ed training staff that assists in injury management and other things of the sort. But what can throw any individual off focus during a game is the love these people in particular have for the game. Specifi cally targeting the water boys, a simple gesture such as offering an opposing player a drink is contrary to popular belief that you play for your team. These people extend to the football community that this game is more valuable than a member of the same jumper. They are not out there supporting the individuals of the same team, but of the football congregation that even alludes to the umpires. As stated, it is the involuntary actions of the individuals within a football commune that shape the spirit within a club. They are the people that inspire others to be your best because after all, how many times has Bobby or Mick strapped your ankles willingly, with a smile on their faces? So, in concluding, many thanks must go out to the unsung heroes of the Sandringham Dragons Football Club, the trainers. Mick Broderick David Bluey Gilmore Jonno Nash The success stories in football are those of the profi teers. Those who went from rags to riches and are now formally dressed in their dry-cleaned Giorgio Armani suits that embrace their cottoned shirt, which highlights their slicked comb over hairstyle. They are the ones who followed their dream, much like Tom Wills who is more publically renowned for founding football in its fi rst decade. In a business sense, these people are innovators in their own activity; however it is through the sacrifi cial demise of a person that expects very little in return that has developed the code of the game. Football has made drastic inevitable changes since its inception into the sporting world. From a personal point of view, there are two areas in a football game that are performed out of context. Firstly, football has a macho aggressive style of play and therefore it is understandable why opponents indulge in a bit of biff with opponents prior to the commencement of the opening bounce. It is easier to perform such a violent activity as there is no emotional attachment with your opposition player. The worst thing that any opponent can do is to begin a conversation, as was the case for me during round 19 of this season against the Geelong Falcons. When this mutual exchange of words takes place, I feel obliged to respect this guy and be less physical, than an opponent with no rapport. This can be contrasted with playing against people that are your mates. Some people can turn off their emotions and once they cross that boundary line, all previous relationships are terminated, well at least for the duration of the game anyway. Bob Bobby Taylor Jonno Nash 32 - DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 33

18 Catching up with: Tom Murphy Hawthorn Football Club Jumper: 29 Drafted: Pick Murrembeena FC Debut: Round 22, 2005 DOB: 19/03/1986 Height: 190 Weight: 89 What are your memories of the Dragons? My most vivid memories are of Ossie walking around at training in the world s worst kit and stirring blokes up. I met plenty of great people through the Dragons, both players and offi cials. The trainers do a great job and are very generous with their time. How have you been training and playing with the Hawks? Apart from a broken hand I ve been playing seniors almost all year. It s been good to string some games together, especially in a winning team. What have you struggled with at Hawthorn? My fi rst pre-season was tough, I was recovering from a shoulder re-co and I seemed to keep fi nding ways to get injured. The transition to playing against men was also a challenge. Who or what was your first impression at the club? I realised pretty quickly that the people that had told me that getting drafted was the easy part were right. The physical and mental demands on young players are enormous. There is so much more involved in being an AFL player than I expected. I had to change my life and expectations pretty quickly. Once I d done that, I realised I d found my dream job at 18, hopefully I can make a career out of it. What do you enjoy the most about being with the Hawks? We ve got a really young side and we re all really good mates. It s kind of like being at school with all your mates but your only subject in PE and there is lots of lunch time. What valuable lessons do you feel you have learnt to date? Before my top age year I was told that selfish players do themselves more harm than good. It s a trap some blokes fall into in Under 18 s and I found I played my best when I was team orientated. Recruiters don t watch the game like your Mum and Dad. The people that make the decisions are looking for players that will fi t into their AFL club. I m grateful I learnt that at an early age. How do you feel brothers Ned and Xavier are going with their football? They re both going well. Hopefully one day we can all play a season together. Who win s Jack in the Pack? Over the years there have been hangers but plenty of blood, sweat and tears DRAGON TALES - sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au sandringhamdragons.afl vic.com.au - DRAGON TALES - 35