What's happening in the Bendigo Football League

[Picklesmeoldmate]

Has anyone got any news on what's happening with recruits as far as the Bendigo Football League goes. The BFL doesn't seem to get much coverage on here

[HJ32]

Has anyone got any news on what's happening with recruits as far as the Bendigo Football League goes. The BFL doesn't seem to get much coverage on here

sorry ol' mate, I tried to get a thread going on the BFL but alas no joy!

Golden Square look to have been the most active with recruiting. Snagging Simon Rosa's brother from wimmera way, Jason Curtain from the Bendigo Bombers, and a few others which i can't remember. Paul Eyles has rejoined Eaglehawk as assitant coach to Filo, whilst Kangaroo Flat are yet to announce their new senior coach, but the hot tip is that Shannon Millward will be the leader there. Damian Brown will stay on as a player at the flat.

[Grimmett]

sorry ol' mate, I tried to get a thread going on the BFL but alas no joy!

Golden Square look to have been the most active with recruiting. Snagging Simon Rosa's brother from wimmera way, Jason Curtain from the Bendigo Bombers, and a few others which i can't remember. Paul Eyles has rejoined Eaglehawk as assitant coach to Filo, whilst Kangaroo Flat are yet to announce their new senior coach, but the hot tip is that Shannon Millward will be the leader there. Damian Brown will stay on as a player at the flat.


Luke Rosa is the brother you mention. Regular Wimmera FL rep during the past three to four years, premiership player with Warrack Eagles in 2002. Younger brother Matt broke into the West Coast lineup for a couple of games last this season in his first year of AFL. Luke will be a more than handy pickup for Golden Square as a proven major league player. Capable of playing CHB in the Wimmera but probably be a tall half-back or winger in a stronger league like the Bendigo FL.

[newton]

sorry ol' mate, I tried to get a thread going on the BFL but alas no joy!

Golden Square look to have been the most active with recruiting. Snagging Simon Rosa's brother from wimmera way, Jason Curtain from the Bendigo Bombers, and a few others which i can't remember. Paul Eyles has rejoined Eaglehawk as assitant coach to Filo, whilst Kangaroo Flat are yet to announce their new senior coach, but the hot tip is that Shannon Millward will be the leader there. Damian Brown will stay on as a player at the flat.Where did Paul Eyles spend 2005?

[HJ32]

Castlemaine

[wheelbarrow]

sorry ol' mate, I tried to get a thread going on the BFL but alas no joy!

Golden Square look to have been the most active with recruiting. Snagging Simon Rosa's brother from wimmera way, Jason Curtain from the Bendigo Bombers, and a few others which i can't remember. Paul Eyles has rejoined Eaglehawk as assitant coach to Filo, whilst Kangaroo Flat are yet to announce their new senior coach, but the hot tip is that Shannon Millward will be the leader there. Damian Brown will stay on as a player at the flat.

Mark Dickens who was a non playing asst at Seymour a couple of years ago has also put in for the flat job.

[Picklesmeoldmate]

What can you tell me about Mark Dickens. The mail around town is that Brown may be interested in staying on as the Kangaroo Flat coach, so we will have to see. Eylesy to Eaglehawk is an interesting one. The bloke certainly can play, but it will be interesting to see how his body holds up. There doesn't seem to be a great deal else happening.

[Picklesmeoldmate]

Apparantly there is an ex Bridgewater star who retired several years ago, but is ready to come back and play. Is reportedly working out regularly at a gym in Bendigo as part of a get-fit program. Was a handy forward pocket in his time, sometimes lacked discipline, and I believe he also spent a bit of time at kangaroo flat as a junior. Understand he is keen to return to major league footy. Can't remember his name, but believe his surname was stewart.

[The Big H]

G'day Guys. Can you tell me a bit about how Damian "Snodge" Brown goes up at Kangaroo flat. I play with his brother in Tassie, and also played with Snodge at the Branxholm Wanderers. He came back and played one game for us a couple of years back when there was a bye, just so the Brown boys could have one last game together.

[Picklesmeoldmate]

Browny is a very handy player Big H. Kicked about 40 goals in a side that won just one game this year. However, that one win was by 191 points against maryborough when he kicked 12 goals. Won the club's best and fairest alternating between the ruck and centre half-forward. Often got the rough end of the stick with the cumpires, but all in all, was a good pick up for the club. Stood down as coach after one year.

[HJ32]

What can you tell me about Mark Dickens. The mail around town is that Brown may be interested in staying on as the Kangaroo Flat coach, so we will have to see. Eylesy to Eaglehawk is an interesting one. The bloke certainly can play, but it will be interesting to see how his body holds up. There doesn't seem to be a great deal else happening.


Mark Dickens coached seymour magoos for a couple of years. He has also had stints at Nagambie and Avenel as a senior coach. I think he has been out of the coaching side of things for about 2 yrs. His last stint being at Seymour in an assitant role. Nice fella, good communicator, but i would doubt he'd get the senior role at the Flat. Would be excellent reserves/thirds coach however.

My mail is that Milward has already been appointed senior coach, but the club is now just wanting to finalise 2nds and 3rds coach before making it public.

[Doona2]

What can you tell me about Mark Dickens. The mail around town is that Brown may be interested in staying on as the Kangaroo Flat coach, so we will have to see. Eylesy to Eaglehawk is an interesting one. The bloke certainly can play, but it will be interesting to see how his body holds up. There doesn't seem to be a great deal else happening.

Spent a year at Avenel when Dicko was senior coach, he was a great communicator to those he wanted to talk to, but I doubt he would've known every player on the list and have been comfortable to go up and say hi to. Prime example was another mate from Broadford came up for the year and up until July/August Dicko called him Mat . . . . . his name was Aaron!!!

[woody07]

Big news from Gisborne. Jordan Barham is doing a pre-season with Melbourne- a chance of getting on the rookie list. At the very least will play V.F.L .Simon Elsum (Michelson Medalist) and David Power (premiership defender) will be back at Gisborne next year. Both players did not enjoy their year at Dooda Stars. Chris Curcio may make a comeback. Adam Potroskvy is trying his luck at Coburg and Rick Watts at Williamstown- Both wont make it-Adam too slow (good player but too slow). Tai Elliot may not play.

[caveman]

I would be surprised to see Damian Brown coach the Flat again as he clearly wasnt happy as a coach. He will really thrive if he gets to focus on playing. I am a Flat supporter and in my opinion they need a non playing coach.

[Deefer4]

I would be surprised to see Damian Brown coach the Flat again as he clearly wasnt happy as a coach. He will really thrive if he gets to focus on playing. I am a Flat supporter and in my opinion they need a non playing coach.
You may get a surprise Caveman! He is in Melb frequently trying to get players. If he gets enough "quality" players, may reconsider the coaching role. If he does not, may consider a move back to Keilor, if they will take him, considering he is trying to poach their players. :confused:

[caveman]

You may get a surprise Caveman! He is in Melb frequently trying to get players. If he gets enough "quality" players, may reconsider the coaching role. If he does not, may consider a move back to Keilor, if they will take him, considering he is trying to poach their players. :confused:

What are his chances of getting some "quality " players to the Flat next season?

[HJ32]

has anyone heard what Sandhurst and South are up to? I've heard that Elmore are really keen on getting John Hardinge.

[Picklesmeoldmate]

Imagine what sort of damage John Hardinge could do in the HDFL. He is a standout in the BFL and I would find it hard to see him leaving South Bendigo, who are definitely on the right way up after a good year under Danny O'Bree. By the way, have any of you guys seen a better kick of the footy than O'Bree. I expect Gisborne to be strong again. Just hope someone can take it up to them. Perhaps North Ballarat.

[HJ32]

Imagine what sort of damage John Hardinge could do in the HDFL. He is a standout in the BFL and I would find it hard to see him leaving South Bendigo, who are definitely on the right way up after a good year under Danny O'Bree. By the way, have any of you guys seen a better kick of the footy than O'Bree. I expect Gisborne to be strong again. Just hope someone can take it up to them. Perhaps North Ballarat.

Yes, Darren Jarman

[Picklesmeoldmate]

I meant in the Bendigo Football League old mate

[HJ32]

ummm.... not sure, he's got pretty good skills though.

why can't bendigo league attract players like the GV - is it $$$$ or is there more to it. Personally, I believe there are too many footy clubs in Bendigo for a starter.

[Picklesmeoldmate]

That's a good call on the number of footy clubs in bendigo for a start. there are five BFL clubs, plus a LVFL club, plus a couple of HDFL clubs, so it makes it very competitive to get players. Obviously the money just isn't there to recruit players. I don't know why, but it seems to be me BFL doesn't have the prestige it once it had and the prestige that the GVFL and O and M now has, which is disapointing. There are just no AFL players coming into the system like those other leagues.

[HJ32]

going to be an interesting meeting at Strathfieldsaye tonite in regards to a footy club being established.

At the moment, South Bendigo are keen to move there once the new oval is finished, however the other mover is Mt Pleasant FC who have their eye on the facility. Mounts would then move into the BFL if they snagged the deal.

[caveman]

going to be an interesting meeting at Strathfieldsaye tonite in regards to a footy club being established.

At the moment, South Bendigo are keen to move there once the new oval is finished, however the other mover is Mt Pleasant FC who have their eye on the facility. Mounts would then move into the BFL if they snagged the deal.

Who do you guys think will be playing out of Strathfieldsaye? Could they form their own club to flow with the juniors?

I follow Kangaroo Flat. What do you predict for the Flat in 2006?

[Deefer4]

What are his chances of getting some "quality " players to the Flat next season?
Only two regular senior players from Keilor on his hit list, one of them works for the new Keilor coach, don't think he will go. The other could be a chance if enough $'s are on offer. No real guns from the other clubs. Hear one of the Tankard boys is in the mix.

[Picklesmeoldmate]

Kangaroo Flat simply must get quality players into the side if they are to be competitive. Here is an interesting thought. If the Flat struggles again this year like they have in the past few years, when do you start to question their viability in this competition.

[caveman]

Kangaroo Flat simply must get quality players into the side if they are to be competitive. Here is an interesting thought. If the Flat struggles again this year like they have in the past few years, when do you start to question their viability in this competition.

Very interesting question mate. Personally I think there will be enough improvement this season not to worry about our viability in the B.F.L but if we do have another poor season then you are right and you do have to start thinking about the alternatives.

What league would be interested in having Kangaroo Flat? The LVFL? What are your thoughts?

[HJ32]

hdfl would have them esp if lbu head back to the old northern echuca comp, and mounts end up based at strathfieldsaye... long way down the track though, the flat just need to improve this year

[caveman]

yeah I think the Flat will definitely improve and there must be a few decent recruits coming as I dont think Browny would have put his hand up to coach again if he thought we would have another really poor season.

[TuskenRaider]

What's Kangaroo Flat's record been since they won the flag in 1996 (I think)? They were strong for a few years in that period I'm pretty sure.

[Picklesmeoldmate]

Kangaroo Flat got to a grand final in 2000 when they were beaten by Castlemaine by 12 points in quite a good game. Since then, it has been pretty much all down hill though. In 2002, the club didn't win a game in the second half of the season. In 2003, the club failed to win a game under Fabulous Phil Carman. In 2004, with Chris Harrington as coach, the club won won game. Then this year with Browny in charge, they only won one game as well, albeit by 191 points against Maryborough. To be honest, I really can't see how things are going to change this year.

[Picklesmeoldmate]

I hear this bridgewater play looking to come back out of retirement is strongly hinting at a move to kangaroo flat, as is a former white hills reserves grand final player and kyneton reserves player who has apparantly moved to bendigo recently

[TuskenRaider]

Then this year with Browny in charge, they only won one game as well, albeit by 191 points against Maryborough. .
Geez, that's a massive victory for the only win for the year!

How were Maryborough this year then?

[Picklesmeoldmate]

Maryborough struggled this year after a mass exodus of players during the pre-season. Only won three games, but they have a lot of kids and seem to be on the way up. Having said that though, they weren't as bad as that scoreline against Kangaroo Flat may suggest. Hopefully, Maryborough can add some experience to its side next season and can be more competitive.

[Picklesmeoldmate]

Interesting reading on the back page of today's Bendigo Advertiser regarding Steven Oliver going to Newstead. I tell you what, if Oliver is fit and plays all games out there, he could kick 200 goals in that comp. He kicked about 80 this year in the BFL and didn't play all games. Is taking Jarrad Trethowan out there with him.

[Picklesmeoldmate]

The Mark Dickens story at kangaroo flat is interesting. Does anyone know what he does for a job away from footy

[Doona2]

The Mark Dickens story at kangaroo flat is interesting. Does anyone know what he does for a job away from footy

He used to be a high profile hair dresser when in Seymour!!! All jokes aside Dicko has been around footy for a long time and would have the knowledge to help nurture a young list, or possibly reserves/thirds teams.

[HJ32]

He used to be a high profile hair dresser when in Seymour!!! All jokes aside Dicko has been around footy for a long time and would have the knowledge to help nurture a young list, or possibly reserves/thirds teams.

yep, def a hair dresser!
i think he's doing some labouring work around Bendigo at the moment.

what do you blokes reckon about Gears leaving the borough and heading to Huntly????!

[hank1]

Nick Knight of Rochy Tigers fame is heading to South Bendigo. Very good pick up for the bloods.

[rightfoot_sloth]

Has anyone heard about North Ballarat and anyone they have picked up ? Whats people gut feel about the likelyhood of success first year in ? :)

[hank1]

Has anyone heard about North Ballarat and anyone they have picked up ? Whats people gut feel about the likelyhood of success first year in ? :)

Spoke to a bloke from Ballarat last week who has had a bit to do with Norht Ballarat over the years and he believed they would struggle first year in with a very young list, but once they became established and have that 4-5 years of influx from their U/18s they will be very competitive.

[HJ32]

they'll be good cos they'll have all of the 'rats recruits to pick from and entice locals to play in a diff comp to the ballarat league.

[Wayne Weideman]

Nick Knight of Rochy Tigers fame is heading to South Bendigo. Very good pick up for the bloods.


yeah not wrong hank. i

[Grimmett]

Anybody else heard the whisper that the BFL is looking to play the Under 18's as the curtain raiser to the Seniors in 2006 and play the Reserves before the U/18's?

[TuskenRaider]

Nick Knight of Rochy Tigers fame is heading to South Bendigo. Very good pick up for the bloods.
Beat me to it Hank, heard he was going to South Bendigo. Should go well in Bendigo.

[Picklesmeoldmate]

It all seems to be a bit quiet in the BFL at the moment. what else is going on out there.

[HJ32]

It all seems to be a bit quiet in the BFL at the moment. what else is going on out there.

Brown Coaching Flat - surprising, but obvious committee changes breathed new enthusiasm.

[ratley]

Brown Coaching Flat - surprising, but obvious committee changes breathed new enthusiasm.

how did jason cordy and steve jarrot go this year at castlemaine?

[Grimmett]

Article from Bendigo Addy. Like the idea of trying to develop a ticket that allows entry to major and minor league GF's. Night finals hav ebeen played in Wimmera FL previously with the majorproblem being that all clubs are happy to agree to the idea in pre-season but when it looks as if they may have to play in one they start bitching.


Night finals a step closer
Luke West
Friday, 2 December 2005

HISTORY looks set to made in the All Seasons Bendigo Football League next year with the introduction of night finals for the first time.
As revealed in The Advertiser in October, the BFL's qualifying final on September 2 and the second semi-final on September 9 look set to be played under lights at the Queen Elizabeth Oval next season.

The two finals have been earmarked as night matches in the BFL's official 2006 fixture, and no concerns have been raised by clubs about the proposal.

"The night finals are only proposed at this stage, but will be confirmed after further discussions with the clubs at one of our first meetings next year," BFL general manager Tony Pierce said yesterday.

"I'd like to see it happen, but we need to give consideration to the teams participating."

The BFL fixture was officially unveiled this week, but some changes may still be made, most notably surrounding the finals.

At this stage, the preliminary final has been booked for Sunday, September 17, to avoid any clash of finals with district leagues.

The grand final has been set aside for Saturday, September, 23, which, if the draw remains as is, would give the winner of the preliminary final just six days to prepare for the biggest game of the season.

However, those dates have not been set in stone, with the possibility of the preliminary final being played on the Saturday and the grand final being moved back to the Sunday for the first time since 2001 still a chance.

Again, those decisions will be made at a meeting involving clubs next year.

The QEO lights will be used in three of the first five rounds of the 2006 season - South Bendigo versus North Ballarat Juniors (round one), Sandhurst versus South Bendigo (round four) and Sandhurst versus Kangaroo Flat (round five).

The game against South Bendigo in round one will be North Ballarat Juniors' first in their new league.

The Juniors have signed a 10-year agreement with the BFL after they were unsuccessful earlier this year in gaining entry into the Ballarat Football League.

The admittance of the Juniors into the BFL means there will be no bye for the first time since the 2000 season and all teams will play 18, rather than 16 home and away games.

Sunday football will be a regular feature early in the season, with Sunday matches fixtured in each of the first three rounds.

The league will hold a general bye on the weekend of May 27-28 for its Pool C country championships campaign at Barooga, and round 12 will be a split round played over July 15 and 22.

Before the season gets under way with the Good Friday clash between Eaglehawk and Kangaroo Flat at Canterbury Park on April 14, the BFL will run a lightning premiership at the QEO on April 1.

The BFL will invite two teams from outside leagues to take the number of competing clubs to 12 and allow for four pools of three teams.

Meanwhile, there have been some preliminary discussions surrounding the possibility of a joint grand final ticketing system involving the BFL and district leagues in the region being introduced next year.

While the idea has only just been floated, it would allow a football-netball fan to pre-purchase a ticket that would gain them entry into the BFL grand final, as well as the grand final in district leagues.

[Blue Boyz]

Maryborough struggled this year after a mass exodus of players during the pre-season. Only won three games, but they have a lot of kids and seem to be on the way up. Having said that though, they weren't as bad as that scoreline against Kangaroo Flat may suggest. Hopefully, Maryborough can add some experience to its side next season and can be more competitive.


As an old Maryborough boy I am fairly interested in their propects for next year. Who are their good kids and have they recruited anyone experienced at this stage for 2006?

BTW how did Thommo go as coach this year?

[Picklesmeoldmate]

I think the BFL should just take a stand and say "right, these two finals are being designated as night finals, this is what's going to happen.'' i think the night finals would help to attract a bigger crowd as well because it obviously wouldn't be clashing with a final in one of the district leagues. And more crowds means more money, which ultimately means a better dividend at the end of the year for the clubs. I also think the joint ticketing system has some merit that is certainly worth exploring.:thumbsu:

[spoke4923]

Night finals a step closer
Luke West
Friday, 2 December 2005

HISTORY looks set to made in the All Seasons Bendigo Football League next year with the introduction of night finals for the first time.
As revealed in The Advertiser in October, the BFL's qualifying final on September 2 and the second semi-final on September 9 look set to be played under lights at the Queen Elizabeth Oval next season.

The two finals have been earmarked as night matches in the BFL's official 2006 fixture, and no concerns have been raised by clubs about the proposal.

"The night finals are only proposed at this stage, but will be confirmed after further discussions with the clubs at one of our first meetings next year," BFL general manager Tony Pierce said yesterday.

"I'd like to see it happen, but we need to give consideration to the teams participating."

The BFL fixture was officially unveiled this week, but some changes may still be made, most notably surrounding the finals.

At this stage, the preliminary final has been booked for Sunday, September 17, to avoid any clash of finals with district leagues.

The grand final has been set aside for Saturday, September, 23, which, if the draw remains as is, would give the winner of the preliminary final just six days to prepare for the biggest game of the season.

However, those dates have not been set in stone, with the possibility of the preliminary final being played on the Saturday and the grand final being moved back to the Sunday for the first time since 2001 still a chance.

Again, those decisions will be made at a meeting involving clubs next year.

The QEO lights will be used in three of the first five rounds of the 2006 season - South Bendigo versus North Ballarat Juniors (round one), Sandhurst versus South Bendigo (round four) and Sandhurst versus Kangaroo Flat (round five).

The game against South Bendigo in round one will be North Ballarat Juniors' first in their new league.

The Juniors have signed a 10-year agreement with the BFL after they were unsuccessful earlier this year in gaining entry into the Ballarat Football League.

The admittance of the Juniors into the BFL means there will be no bye for the first time since the 2000 season and all teams will play 18, rather than 16 home and away games.

Sunday football will be a regular feature early in the season, with Sunday matches fixtured in each of the first three rounds.

The league will hold a general bye on the weekend of May 27-28 for its Pool C country championships campaign at Barooga, and round 12 will be a split round played over July 15 and 22.

Before the season gets under way with the Good Friday clash between Eaglehawk and Kangaroo Flat at Canterbury Park on April 14, the BFL will run a lightning premiership at the QEO on April 1.

The BFL will invite two teams from outside leagues to take the number of competing clubs to 12 and allow for four pools of three teams.

Meanwhile, there have been some preliminary discussions surrounding the possibility of a joint grand final ticketing system involving the BFL and district leagues in the region being introduced next year.

While the idea has only just been floated, it would allow a football-netball fan to pre-purchase a ticket that would gain them entry into the BFL grand final, as well as the grand final in district leagues.[/quote]

Sounds like you've got a supporter in this West bloke old mate. I've seen some of the stuff he writes, sounds like he know's what's going on. Unlike the rest of those addy journo's who seem to spend their weekends playing the PS2. Anyone know if there's any substance to the mass exodus rumour circulating Kyneton? Apparently the town has realised Massina is just a moron who spends a club's money, buying a goood year or two without developing any good, young talent.

[Grimmett]

Another Luke West article from the Bendigo Advertiser:



Link scrapped - Bendigo Bombers, BFL dump alignment agreement
Luke West
Saturday, 3 December 2005

NO longer will Bendigo Bank Bombers' players be required to align themselves with All Seasons Bendigo Football League clubs.
The Bombers and BFL have agreed to lapse a heads of agreement that was signed off on in September, last year, in anticipation of the Bombers' new VFL reserves team coming to fruition.

The heads of agreement to span the life of the Bombers' reserves was unanimously endorsed by the BFL board in September, last year, but 14 months on, no longer exists.

Among the key criteria of the heads of agreement were:

* players who are contracted to the Bombers will be allocated an aligned BFL club if they have no existing alignment in place.

* any new Bomber player who lives outside the immediate geographic radius of Bendigo will be given 12 months to remain at their present family or postal address and not align with a BFL club, but after 12 months, be required to align themselves with a BFL club.

But the playing field has changed and there is now no official relationship between the Bombers and BFL as far as the transfer of players go.

What this decision means is, for example, new recruit Patty Rattray will be eligible to go back and play with his home club Seymour in the Goulburn Valley Football League if he doesn't get a game for the Bendigo Bombers' seniors or seconds.

Under the old agreement, Rattray would have been required to play for a BFL club when not selected with the Bombers.

"What we found was the agreement was having an effect on the wider football community," BFL general manager Tony Pierce said.

"There was confusion about this alignment and registrations under VCFL guidelines."

An example of the confusion surrounding the agreement was evident this year when Golden Square was stripped of its points and fined $500 after beating Eaglehawk in the reserves in round nine.

It was found Golden Square had ineligibly played Bomber Kiel Robertson against the Hawks, after he was still registered to his former club Kerang.

"This will eliminate some confusion previously created and makes us fall in line with the rest of the way VCFL and VFL transfers operate," Pierce said.

"But the BFL will continue to work with the Bombers and Bendigo Pioneers for the growth and betterment of football in the Bendigo region."

Bombers' general manager Matthew Allan said the decision to lapse the agreement was a non-issue.

"We've agreed to lapse it for the betterment of both parties; it really is a non-issue," Allan said.

"We're just trying to do the best we can for footy in the region and we think we're going down the right path."

[wheelbarrow]

Brown Coaching Flat - surprising, but obvious committee changes breathed new enthusiasm.

Mate did Brown Coach them last yr. ?

Is Mark Dickens from Seymour involved in any capacity at the Flat in 06. ?

Is the same bloke president next yr. Brooks. ??

[Picklesmeoldmate]

Brown did coach the Roos last year. Came with big wraps on him after president Scott Jackman declared him to be the best big man in the competition pre-season. He won their B and F. He stepped down from the coaching role after the season saying he didn't enjoy it. However, he has changed his mind and is doing it again. I think that Dickins is pretty keen to get involved in the footy scene over here somewhere. Paul Brooks is a new president who has taken over from scott jackman, who has stood down after three years.

[Grimmett]

Mate did Brown Coach them last yr. ?

Is Mark Dickens from Seymour involved in any capacity at the Flat in 06. ?

Is the same bloke president next yr. Brooks. ??

Brown, yes.
Dickens, dunno.
Brooks, yes.

[spoke4923]

Kyneton in huge financial difficulties, planning urgent talks between board and league. Some of the bigger names might be jumping ship, talk about not being able to pay players.

[wheelbarrow]

Brown did coach the Roos last year. Came with big wraps on him after president Scott Jackman declared him to be the best big man in the competition pre-season. He won their B and F. He stepped down from the coaching role after the season saying he didn't enjoy it. However, he has changed his mind and is doing it again. I think that Dickins is pretty keen to get involved in the footy scene over here somewhere. Paul Brooks is a new president who has taken over from scott jackman, who has stood down after three years.

Mark Salakowski from Avenel is playing there next year.. Ex GV rep.

[HJ32]

Sala is just about finished and will struggle in the bfl

[Grandale]

Mark Salakowski from Avenel is playing there next year.. Ex GV rep.

...who will also be about 36yo next footy season.

[HJ32]

not sure on the age, but IMO he's passed major league status.

[spoke4923]

Kyneton in huge financial difficulties, planning urgent talks between board and league. Some of the bigger names might be jumping ship, talk about not being able to pay players.

More on the above...
Matt Waters: Leading goal kicker for club in 04 (second in league when the team was a rabble) is going bush.
O'Connor, Ciunik, Walker: All 21 or under, a couple of handy footballers going.
Eve: Captain and full forward. Maybe going bush with assistant coaching position.
Brett Cook: Ex AFL ruckman (Lions, Saints) hasn't committed to Kyneton for '06.
Darren Chambers: As above, assistant coaching position in bush has been mentioned.
Troy Williams: Possibly going to Gippsland.
Can anyone deny/confirm any of these or others?

[Doona2]

not sure on the age, but IMO he's passed major league status.

Here here HJ32 - hasn't exactly set the world on fire at Avenel since heading there 4-5 years ago. Was an absolute gun in his day, but like us all age does catch up eventually.

[wheelbarrow]

...who will also be about 36yo next footy season.


How old is Amad. ????

[Grandale]

How old is Amad. ????

Ever heard of the saying exception to the rule, Wheels?
Sure, Joey's rising 38 and can still cut it at major league level but that doesn't mean everyone that old can.
Sala was an absolute jet in his heyday - in my opinion he was at his best when playing full-forward for the Lions in the mid-90s - but probably would have struggled to get a game in the Lions' team this year.
No doubt he'll have no trouble getting a game for KF if that's where he does decide to line up but don't go expecting him to reproduce the feats he was capable of 10 years ago.

[HJ32]

Ever heard of the saying exception to the rule, Wheels?
Sure, Joey's rising 38 and can still cut it at major league level but that doesn't mean everyone that old can.
Sala was an absolute jet in his heyday - in my opinion he was at his best when playing full-forward for the Lions in the mid-90s - but probably would have struggled to get a game in the Lions' team this year.
No doubt he'll have no trouble getting a game for KF if that's where he does decide to line up but don't go expecting him to reproduce the feats he was capable of 10 years ago.


very correct grandale

[Picklesmeoldmate]

Kyneton in huge financial difficulties, planning urgent talks between board and league. Some of the bigger names might be jumping ship, talk about not being able to pay players.
That's pretty big news there on Kyneton there. has it come from a good source close to the club.

[HJ32]

I think Matty Waters is being sounded out by Heathcote and possibly mounts and maybe even Colbo where he used to play.

can anyone tell me if he's recovered from his bout of OP?

[MAXIMUM_POWER]

... in my opinion he was at his best when playing full-forward for the Lions in the mid-90s ...

In my opinion he was at his best while sculpting his size XXL biceps and pectoral muscles in the gym during many a pre-season.

His biceps have still been known to scare little children

[caveman]

In my opinion he was at his best while sculpting his size XXL biceps and pectoral muscles in the gym during many a pre-season.

His biceps have still been known to scare little children

I dont know this guy but I hope Kangaroo Flat get him even if he is a bit old because the Flat need some senior players to help with the younger ones coming through. How many games do people think the Flat will win next year? Will there be big improvement or will they really struggle again?

[HJ32]

I dont know this guy but I hope Kangaroo Flat get him even if he is a bit old because the Flat need some senior players to help with the younger ones coming through. How many games do people think the Flat will win next year? Will there be big improvement or will they really struggle again?

what about Ronnie Wicks, Chris Harrington and Noel Shelton???

are they not the wise heads required at the club?

[Picklesmeoldmate]

I think you will find that noel shelton has retired. kangaroo flat do need to get as many experienced players as possible because they have a lot of good kids there. they also need key position players. it seems most of the talk in this forum surrounds the roos

[caveman]

what about Ronnie Wicks, Chris Harrington and Noel Shelton???

are they not the wise heads required at the club?

You are right they are wise heads but we need more. I went to a fair few Kangaroo Flat matches last season and they clearly needed more support for the youngsters. Last season was the first I have followed in the BFL so I dont know a great deal about the league. All I know is Ronnie Wicks wasnt on the field too much last season due to injury. I am happy with the youngsters coming through but if we are to gain some respect we need some more senior players!

[spoke4923]

I think Matty Waters is being sounded out by Heathcote and possibly mounts and maybe even Colbo where he used to play.

can anyone tell me if he's recovered from his bout of OP?

Apparently he's over it after his year off and ready to go. A bloke of his size and speed would be a handful in any local comp. Repeatedly beat the best full backs in the BFL two years ago when delivery was ordinary. Colbo maybe, Heathcote unlikely, woodend possibly.

[spoke4923]

That's pretty big news there on Kyneton there. has it come from a good source close to the club.

My source is usually pretty good. With certain people at the club, it hardly comes as a surprise. Remember too, old president and board gone (that originally intended a two year term minimum) so this is a new committee. Maybe they arrived and found the financial state not so healthy...

[Picklesmeoldmate]

So who do we think are shaping up as the teams to beat next year, and why?

[hank1]

So who do we think are shaping up as the teams to beat next year, and why?

Square and South were up there this year and will only improve on that. Gisborne will still be the team to beat.

[Wisper]

Nick Knight of Rochy Tigers fame is heading to South Bendigo. Very good pick up for the bloods.


May be a good pickup for South, but may be found out physically. If he gets the footy he will deliver it lace out, but won't go and get it from what I have seen of him

[gerta]

You are right they are wise heads but we need more. I went to a fair few Kangaroo Flat matches last season and they clearly needed more support for the youngsters. Last season was the first I have followed in the BFL so I dont know a great deal about the league. All I know is Ronnie Wicks wasnt on the field too much last season due to injury. I am happy with the youngsters coming through but if we are to gain some respect we need some more senior players!

I know towards the end of the year and during most of last kangaroo flat was pretty keen on a couple of players from the ncfl league premiers...

Not sure what the go is currently....

[Johnny Tapp]

May be a good pickup for South, but may be found out physically. If he gets the footy he will deliver it lace out, but won't go and get it from what I have seen of him


so your saying that the GVFL which is one of the best football leagues in Victoria is not as physical as the BFL?

[Wisper]

so your saying that the GVFL which is one of the best football leagues in Victoria is not as physical as the BFL?


Nice way to mis quote Johnny - I said HE may be found out. The type of footy in the GV is a little faster and a bit more skillful. Bendigo seems to have more packs (probabaly due to a slightly less skill level) which means that players have to go and get the ball rather than get feed the ball.

I would assume he will get targeted by other clubs also early on in the year also so it will be good to see how he handles it. I heard he picked up some big name players in the GV last year and held his own, so we'll wait and see.

[spoke4923]

May be a good pickup for South, but may be found out physically. If he gets the footy he will deliver it lace out, but won't go and get it from what I have seen of him

Found out physically? From what I heard, he was a pretty good player at Rochy? Surely if he can acquit himself in the GVFL, he'll have no worries in the BFL. The leagues are poles apart. Even if as you say, it's an uglier game in the BFL, the bloke will still be a very handy player.

[randallbone]

Found out physically? From what I heard, he was a pretty good player at Rochy? Surely if he can acquit himself in the GVFL, he'll have no worries in the BFL. The leagues are poles apart. Even if as you say, it's an uglier game in the BFL, the bloke will still be a very handy player.


Will no doubt be targeted early in the season. I think wisper will find that he will aquit himself well in the BFL, having played for Dirty Williams in the GV. He may need to work on the dance moves to keep up with the South boys, especially Troy Auld.

[randallbone]

The word on South is that they have picked up quite a few and should again be in the mix. I would be surprised if they they did not finish in the top 4. Couple of losses in Flaherty and Matthews at this stage but time will tell with those players currently training with the Bombers. Both capable, but would have to favour the raw talent Flaherty as the choice out of the 2.

Will be interesting to see how things pan out for the 2nd year coach O'Bree.

[Picklesmeoldmate]

That troy auld does have some great moves doesn't he. i really enjoyed watching him play his footy this year. i think he has a bright coaching future

[caveman]

Hi everyone,

I have updated my Bendigo Footy website for 2006! Please have a look and join. Look forward to your comments and feedback! Go the FLAT! :)

http://www.geocities.com/bendigofooty

[wheelbarrow]

Hi everyone,

I have updated my Bendigo Footy website for 2006! Please have a look and join. Look forward to your comments and feedback! Go the FLAT! :)

http://www.geocities.com/bendigofooty

How much have you guys offered Rattray. ??

[HJ32]

How much have you guys offered Rattray. ??


this whole rattray thing has got me....

he's signed with the bendigo bombers, he's just had a knee op done which the EFC paid for. he's keen as a cat to play bombers yet the flat thing keeps coming up. Yeah maybe big cash is being offered, but I think that if he plays for a local club it will be back at Seymour. They gave him the opportunity, he played well in the GF and is a premiership player there, and just between you, me and the gatepost, the Lions are just a tad better side than the flat.

what about the Salakowski talk, is he still heading out to roo land???

[wheelbarrow]

this whole rattray thing has got me....

he's signed with the bendigo bombers, he's just had a knee op done which the EFC paid for. he's keen as a cat to play bombers yet the flat thing keeps coming up. Yeah maybe big cash is being offered, but I think that if he plays for a local club it will be back at Seymour. They gave him the opportunity, he played well in the GF and is a premiership player there, and just between you, me and the gatepost, the Lions are just a tad better side than the flat.

what about the Salakowski talk, is he still heading out to roo land???

Yes, they gave him the opportunity but as stated in an earlier thread many down at the Lions Den have not stopped bagging the bloke out since the prem win.

If he cant crack it at the Bombers 100% he will line up with the Flat, 100%.
BIG BIG $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

[TuskenRaider]

Found out physically? From what I heard, he was a pretty good player at Rochy? Surely if he can acquit himself in the GVFL, he'll have no worries in the BFL. The leagues are poles apart. Even if as you say, it's an uglier game in the BFL, the bloke will still be a very handy player.
Knight will be fine, good kick and he'll go and get the ball when he has to.

[Rushy Tiger]

Knight will be fine, good kick and he'll go and get the ball when he has to.

Good player but is sure to be found out in a much rougher type of game. From wot i have heard the BFL is a lot more physical than GV, but not quite as skillful. Knight's only downfall is his comittment to the ball. Will run the lines but wont run in a straight line.

[wheelbarrow]

Good player but is sure to be found out in a much rougher type of game. From wot i have heard the BFL is a lot more physical than GV, but not quite as skillful. Knight's only downfall is his comittment to the ball. Will run the lines but wont run in a straight line.

What round do Rushy play Gig i want 2 come and watch. !!

[Rushy Tiger]

What round do Rushy play Gig i want 2 come and watch. !!
Not too sure on that sorry wheelbarrow. havent taken too much notice of the draw as yet. still concentrating on pre season at the moment. Will try to find out for you though

[TuskenRaider]

Good player but is sure to be found out in a much rougher type of game. From wot i have heard the BFL is a lot more physical than GV, but not quite as skillful. .
Generally speaking, as the standard of football gets higher and the game faster, it is also more physical.

Example: AFL is more skillfull than VFL but is still more physical, not the other way around. Faster collisions, better tackling etc.

Now, there can be exceptions as always but generally it is a rule that works.

Having said that I can understand where you're coming from re more ground balls to chase after.

[hank1]

totally agree, and same can be said with Bendigo and GV, Knight was a good player in GV and will be even better in Bendigo. Not much difference in physicallity between the leagues, but definately more bigger and stronger bodies in GV overall.

[Wisper]

Good player but is sure to be found out in a much rougher type of game. From wot i have heard the BFL is a lot more physical than GV, but not quite as skillful. Knight's only downfall is his comittment to the ball. Will run the lines but wont run in a straight line.

It was a lot of tongue in cheek - saw Knight a few weeks ago and seems to have hit the gym pretty hard over the pre season. Maybe heard rumours around bendigo people are calling him soft..... He will easy get a kick in the BFL and be able to handle himself fine in this league

[footyhead18]

More on the above...
Matt Waters: Leading goal kicker for club in 04 (second in league when the team was a rabble) is going bush.
O'Connor, Ciunik, Walker: All 21 or under, a couple of handy footballers going.
Eve: Captain and full forward. Maybe going bush with assistant coaching position.
Brett Cook: Ex AFL ruckman (Lions, Saints) hasn't committed to Kyneton for '06.
Darren Chambers: As above, assistant coaching position in bush has been mentioned.
Troy Williams: Possibly going to Gippsland.
Can anyone deny/confirm any of these or others?

Can confirm following, will fill in with mor nes after xmas:
Waters= gone
O'Connor, Ciunik, Walker= all likely to stay, Ciunik may return to Woodend as not given much game time under Messina
Eve= struggling with hammy still but will go around again, been training
Cook= staying for big bucks, has a good mate from Ess league likely to join him at tiges
Chambers= training and no doubt
Williams= as above, older player also coming from Woodend, may play ones

Couple of other new recruits in pipeline. If money is an issue Messina hasnt been told cause he's offering plenty for right type of players

[spoke4923]

If money is an issue Messina hasnt been told cause he's offering plenty for right type of players

I wouldn't base Kyneton's financial position on the amount of spending Messina is doing, just ask the guys at Maryborough!

[Rushy Tiger]

It was a lot of tongue in cheek - saw Knight a few weeks ago and seems to have hit the gym pretty hard over the pre season. Maybe heard rumours around bendigo people are calling him soft..... He will easy get a kick in the BFL and be able to handle himself fine in this league
Correct about the tongue in cheek. May have been in a good paddock over the gym tho. Tries to lose a bit when having dance offs in Universal with Lenny Schmitt though

[Picklesmeoldmate]

Kangaroo Flat has signed mark dickens as a non-playing assistant coach for next year.