Ovens and Murray

[bodi]

ANy news on the Ovens and Murray at this time of year?

Who looks to have recruited well, who has lost players?

[Grimmett]

No idea about recruits but I can tell you what a former coach is doing.
West Coast Eagles have appointed former Wodonga Raiders coach, Darren Harris, as assistant coach for season 2006.


Article from The Age website.

Eagles appoint Harris as assistant coach
December 6, 2005 - 8:19PM

The quest for an assistant coach is finally over for AFL club West Coast Eagles as it on Tuesday appointed West Perth premiership captain and coach Darren Harris to the post.

Harris, who was captain of the 1995 West Perth premiership side before taking the club back to the summit as coach in 2003, will begin his new role immediately.

From 1997-1999 he was senior coach of the Wodonga Raiders, taking them to the grand final in 1997 and a year later claimed the premiership. In 1997 his club was also Victorian country champions.

In 2000/01 he was an assistant coach with the NSW/ACT Rams in the TAC Cup competition and was involved in the State 18s team. In 2002 he was appointed coach at West Perth.

"I'm delighted to get the chance to be involved at the highest level and am extremely grateful for the opportunities I was initially granted by West Perth," Harris said.

West Coast Eagles chief executive Trevor Nisbett said he was happy the search was over.

"It was an exhaustive procedure to find the most suitable candidate and we're delighted to appoint a person of Darren's credentials, who has enjoyed so much success as a player and coach," Nisbett said.

"It is also pleasing that Darren has come through the WAFL system, a competition we hold in the highest regard and one which provided our other assistant coaches - Peter Sumich, Tony Micale and Robert Wiley - with a start in the coaching field.

"We believe Darren will add a different perspective on our playing group, given that he has not previously been involved at the club."

[Grimmett]

Here ya go bodi.


The Real McKee
by Rob Harris
The Border Mail
December 08, 2005


STEVE McKee is coming home to the club which helped launch his AFL career a decade ago.
Myrtleford yesterday announced it had beaten Ovens and Murray rival Yarrawonga in the race for the former Collingwood and Richmond big man in one the biggest recruiting coups in recent times.
McKee, 27, said it had been a "line ball" decision to choose between clubs with strong forces pulling him in each direction.
"Myrtleford is obviously a place I grew up and I have a lot of mates there," McKee said yesterday after agreeing to a two-year contact.
"I also had a strong family connection with Yarra and have cousins (Craig Ednie and Daine Runnalls) playing their but once a couple of mates told me they were going to Myrtleford it swayed me in that directions.
Collingwood's ruckman in its 2002 grand final loss to Brisbane, McKee will travel from Melbourne with close friend Sam Cartwright in next season.
The signing is set to send shockwaves throughout the O and M as the Saints hunt for their second premiership in the club's history after they were beaten by a kick after the siren against Lavington this year.
"I played a little bit of footy with St Kevin's in the A grade amateurs last year and I probably would have played their again if I hadn't committed to travel."
"The travelling was my major concern, but once the other guys committed it made my decision easier.
"It's been 10 years since I played a Myrtleford, and its going to be good to see all the guys again and my family more often."
McKee started his senior career with the Saints as a 16-year-old and won the club's best and fairest the following year.
He chose not to go through the TAC Cup system due to a logistical nightmare in terms of travelling from Porepunkah to Wangaratta for Murray Bushrangers training, but his talent could not be ignored and plucked by Richmond as its 55th pick in the 1996 draft.
He went on to play 84 league games (20 at Richmond and 64 with Collingwood) before he was delisted at the end of 2004.
The 199cm ruckman is sure to give the Saints a major boost in their quest for an elusive flag and after winning a wooden spoon in 2004, who would be thrilled to win his nod ahead of a rival club.
"It was a fairly competitive proposition between two clubs and the fact he has decided to come home just reflects the position the club is in at the moment," Saints president Bill O'Donohue said.
"For one of our own to go away and achieve what Steven has achieved and then come back and finish his career at Myrtleford is just tremendous for the club, the town and the whole Alpine Shire.
"People want to come and play for Myrtleford at the moment."
"They want to come and watch us because of our 2005 year and the recruitment of Steve brings the profile to attract the extra crowds, to ensure that our revenue continues to grow in line with our club.
"There was definitely some pressure from Yarrawonga given the family connections he has up there and the historical roles that the McKee's have played and all his cousins.
"But he has chosen to come back to his home club where it all started for him and I think in the end it was the difference and why we were successful

[half time lollies]

From the Border Mail:

Twitt is the Top Dog by David Johnston
Monday, 27th May, 2013

WODONGA'S exhaustive search for a senior coach ended last night when Jarrod Twitt was appointed as Craig Cleary's successor.

The Bulldogs' newly elected board confirmed the star rover would be elevated to the position made vacant by Cleary two months ago.

Twitt joined the Bulldogs from Wagga Tigers in 2002 and has become one of the premier mid-fielders in the Ovens and Murray league.

The 26-year-old has taken charge of pre-season training since Cleary decided to step down mid-way through a two-year term after leading the Bulldogs to a fourth place finish in their premiership defence.

Twitt was promoted to captain of Wodonga this season and finished third in the best and fairest behind Simon McCormick and Paul Nugent after being runner-up to Brad Thompson in 2003 when the Bulldogs reached the grand final.

After returning from South Australia where he played 75 matches for Sturt in the SANFL and spent a season on the Adelaide Crows rookie list, Twitt was a key player in Wagga Tigers' 2001 premiership win in the Riverina league.

Wagga Tigers unsuccessfully tried to join the Ovens and Murray league and when they decided to play in the Canberra AFL competition Twitt joined Wodonga.

Twitt has also represented the VCFL the last two seasons.

In an ironic twist, Nathon Irvin, who has coached Wagga Tigers for the last three seasons, was set to take the Wodonga job before dropping out at the last minute.

The Bulldogs swung their attention to Koroit premier¬ship coach Jason Mifsud in the search for fresh blood at Martin Park, but he also turned down the role.

Twitt will be the Bulldogs' first playing coach since pre¬miership team-mate Leon Higgins who stepped down early in the 2002 season.

Meanwhile, Paul and Nev Nugent were made life members of Wodonga at the club's annual meeting on Monday night.

Paul Nugent is regarded as one of the best ruckman in the Bulldogs' history and earned selection in the club's Team-of-the-Century.

Paul and Nev played alongside eachother in Wodonga's most recent premiership team.

[David Johnston]

For what it's worth here is my ladder for next year going on what's been happening in the off-season to date.
1. Myrtleford (In: McKee, Steer, Bunn, Browne. Out: Millar, Cavedon, Baxter).
2. Wangaratta (In: Mullins and at least 3 others waiting confirmation. Out: Lang, Thayer, Lappin (inj)).
3. Corowa-Rutherglen (In: J. Campbell, Joyce (inj). Out: Nil).
4. Lavington (In: M. Pendergast. Out: L. Carroll, G. Hart)
5. Wodonga (In: Nil. Out: P. Nugent (ret), Clancy)
6. Yarrawonga (In: T. Hargreaves, O'Bryan, Out: McMillan)
7. Albury (In: Carroll, Maher. Out: Nil)
8. North Albury (In: Leslie, Niklaus, Pierre, Out: D. Murray)
9. Wodonga Raiders (In: McMartin, Johnston; Out: M. Pendergast, D. Steinhauser)
10. Wang Rovers (In: Nil. Out: ??)

[centreman]

For what it's worth here is my ladder for next year going on what's been happening in the off-season to date.
1. Myrtleford (In: McKee, Steer, Bunn, Browne. Out: Millar, Cavedon, Baxter).
2. Wangaratta (In: Mullins and at least 3 others waiting confirmation. Out: Lang, Thayer, Lappin (inj)).
3. Corowa-Rutherglen (In: J. Campbell, Joyce (inj). Out: Nil).
4. Lavington (In: M. Pendergast. Out: L. Carroll, G. Hart)
5. Wodonga (In: Nil. Out: P. Nugent (ret), Clancy)
6. Yarrawonga (In: T. Hargreaves, O'Bryan, Out: McMillan)
7. Albury (In: Carroll, Maher. Out: Nil)
8. North Albury (In: Leslie, Niklaus, Pierre, Out: D. Murray)
9. Wodonga Raiders (In: McMartin, Johnston; Out: M. Pendergast, D. Steinhauser)
10. Wang Rovers (In: Nil. Out: ??)

Is there any truth of Darren Bradshaw moving on from the Bulldogs or is that just the same talk you get every time at this year?

[Junkie]

For what it's worth here is my ladder for next year going on what's been happening in the off-season to date.
1. Myrtleford (In: McKee, Steer, Bunn, Browne. Out: Millar, Cavedon, Baxter).
2. Wangaratta (In: Mullins and at least 3 others waiting confirmation. Out: Lang, Thayer, Lappin (inj)).
3. Corowa-Rutherglen (In: J. Campbell, Joyce (inj). Out: Nil).
4. Lavington (In: M. Pendergast. Out: L. Carroll, G. Hart)
5. Wodonga (In: Nil. Out: P. Nugent (ret), Clancy)
6. Yarrawonga (In: T. Hargreaves, O'Bryan, Out: McMillan)
7. Albury (In: Carroll, Maher. Out: Nil)
8. North Albury (In: Leslie, Niklaus, Pierre, Out: D. Murray)
9. Wodonga Raiders (In: McMartin, Johnston; Out: M. Pendergast, D. Steinhauser)
10. Wang Rovers (In: Nil. Out: ??)

Who is the McMartin?

[David Johnston]

It is about as predictable as Santa Claus coming down the chimney on 25/12 that D. Bradshaw will be entertaining offers from rival clubs at this time of the year.
But, the strong mail around is he will play at Cobram next year for PLENTY!!!!

[centreman]

Who is the McMartin?


It's Jason McMartin, Junkie, yes the same one who was at Euroa

[Junkie]

It is about as predictable as Santa Claus coming down the chimney on 25/12 that D. Bradshaw will be entertaining offers from rival clubs at this time of the year.
But, the strong mail around is he will play at Cobram next year for PLENTY!!!!

Poor comment

[David Johnston]

Poor comment

But, accurate.

[Junkie]

But, accurate.

Not accurate, Santa wont be coming down any Chimney's come 25/12.....

[David Johnston]

I'm shattered.
I thought Santa was the real deal.

[Junkie]

I'm shattered.
I thought Santa was the real deal.

yeah some ******** broke the news to me the other day, I too am shattered...

[FOOTYBOSS]

For what it's worth here is my ladder for next year going on what's been happening in the off-season to date.
1. Myrtleford (In: McKee, Steer, Bunn, Browne. Out: Millar, Cavedon, Baxter).
2. Wangaratta (In: Mullins and at least 3 others waiting confirmation. Out: Lang, Thayer, Lappin (inj)).
3. Corowa-Rutherglen (In: J. Campbell, Joyce (inj). Out: Nil).
4. Lavington (In: M. Pendergast. Out: L. Carroll, G. Hart)
5. Wodonga (In: Nil. Out: P. Nugent (ret), Clancy)
6. Yarrawonga (In: T. Hargreaves, O'Bryan, Out: McMillan)
7. Albury (In: Carroll, Maher. Out: Nil)
8. North Albury (In: Leslie, Niklaus, Pierre, Out: D. Murray)
9. Wodonga Raiders (In: McMartin, Johnston; Out: M. Pendergast, D. Steinhauser)
10. Wang Rovers (In: Nil. Out: ??)
Bunn for Myrtleford will be the pick up of the year. Can play and will kill them either off a half back flank or on ball roll. Watch for him to get in the best most weeks.

[Doona2]

Has Damian Lang headed home to Leeton? Will be interested to see how fart go with Wodonga Raiders.

[centreman]

Has Damian Lang headed home to Leeton? Will be interested to see how fart go with Wodonga Raiders.

He certainly has.

[Doona2]

He certainly has.

Lost touch of his footy the past 2 years, how has he fared in Wang? Would reckon he'd be a big bonus to Leeton. Will he be moving home to live also?

[centreman]

Lost touch of his footy the past 2 years, how has he fared in Wang? Would reckon he'd be a big bonus to Leeton. Will he be moving home to live also?

Will be. been very good for Wang and is heading home to coach Leeton-Whitton.

[localfootyguru]

Jason McMartin played this season for Narrandera in the Riverina FL. A very overrated player in my opinion and with a big mouth and ego to match.

The good pick up for Wodonga Raiders is Andrew Johnston, a premiership centre half forward from Ganmain Grong Grong Matong (GGGM) who will be a great asset to the club and can defintely play.

As for Damien Lang, he has already moved back to Leeton and has commenced working for an irrigation company. He will be Assistant Coach to Jamie Broadbent in 2006 and is rumored to be bringing along a couple of other O&M players to Leeton for the 2006 season.

[Travvy43]

Where is derek murray playing this yer, i see he is on the departures list from north albury

[David Johnston]

Rumoured to be playing for Coolangatta.

[dazzledavey36]

john brunner has been training with yarrawonga lately so that could be another good pick up for yarra.

[David Johnston]

Are you for real?

[dazzledavey36]

Are you for real?

well i have been going down to watch yarra train and he has been there every single session. but he could be just training to get fit(even though he is) for devenish. they don't strat pre season until next year. the thing is it has not been reported yet that he has joined the club yet.

[David Johnston]

If he does play can I get on now for him to add an O and M reserves best and fairest award to three senior ones he has already got?

[slim18]

If he does play can I get on now for him to add an O and M reserves best and fairest award to three senior ones he has already got?

Did he win any league B&F medals while he was playing in the BDFL. I know he didnt win it this year.

[slim18]

Just heard that Wang Rovers have signed Brendan Van Schaick ahead of his old club Benalla. Anyone Know?

[David Johnston]

Signed with Benalla.

[Samtrish]

Signed with Benalla.
Agreed to terms last night I believe

[The Dustbin]

Anyone heard if Manny Edmunds from Albury has signed with Holbrook? I rate him very highly.

[Flat Track Bully]

Anyone heard if Manny Edmunds from Albury has signed with Holbrook? I rate him very highly.


Can play the no. 37...Isaac "The Landlord" also goes alright.

Not sure if he has or not...I don't think so though...

[flagpie]

From The Border Mail on September 29

ALBURY star Manny Edmunds has knocked back a coaching offer from Hume Football League club Holbrook to remain at Tigerland next season.
Edmunds, on the verge of playing 200 matches, told officials earlier this week he planned to put coaching aspirations on hold to stay at the Albury Sportsground.
Tigers president David Kefford said Edmunds had been an outstanding player for the Tigers and believed he was crucial to the club's chances of making the finals in the near future.
Kefford said the club was hopeful of appointing a senior coach within the next week with Lavington centreman Luke Carroll the front-runner.
Meanwhile, former Wangaratta Rovers player Sean O'Keeffe has taken out defending VFL premier Sandringham's best and fairest award.
O'Keeffe polled 93 votes to finish 10 clear of Collingwood player Chad Liddell in second and received a double bonus by winning the Zebras' best player in the finals award after starring in their grand final win against Werribee.

[brian speaking]

For what it's worth here is my ladder for next year going on what's been happening in the off-season to date.
1. Myrtleford (In: McKee, Steer, Bunn, Browne. Out: Millar, Cavedon, Baxter).
2. Wangaratta (In: Mullins and at least 3 others waiting confirmation. Out: Lang, Thayer, Lappin (inj)).
3. Corowa-Rutherglen (In: J. Campbell, Joyce (inj). Out: Nil).
4. Lavington (In: M. Pendergast. Out: L. Carroll, G. Hart)
5. Wodonga (In: Nil. Out: P. Nugent (ret), Clancy)
6. Yarrawonga (In: T. Hargreaves, O'Bryan, Out: McMillan)
7. Albury (In: Carroll, Maher. Out: Nil)
8. North Albury (In: Leslie, Niklaus, Pierre, Out: D. Murray)
9. Wodonga Raiders (In: McMartin, Johnston; Out: M. Pendergast, D. Steinhauser)
10. Wang Rovers (In: Nil. Out: ??)

McKee is a s h i t footballer and an even worse bloke. He played at my club this year and is always injured and refuses to train. He is no threat to any league or oppostion footballers...soft as butter.

[HJ32]

From the Border Mail:

Twitt is the Top Dog by David Johnston
Monday, 27th May, 2013

WODONGA'S exhaustive search for a senior coach ended last night when Jarrod Twitt was appointed as Craig Cleary's successor.

The Bulldogs' newly elected board confirmed the star rover would be elevated to the position made vacant by Cleary two months ago.

Twitt joined the Bulldogs from Wagga Tigers in 2002 and has become one of the premier mid-fielders in the Ovens and Murray league.

The 26-year-old has taken charge of pre-season training since Cleary decided to step down mid-way through a two-year term after leading the Bulldogs to a fourth place finish in their premiership defence.

Twitt was promoted to captain of Wodonga this season and finished third in the best and fairest behind Simon McCormick and Paul Nugent after being runner-up to Brad Thompson in 2003 when the Bulldogs reached the grand final.

After returning from South Australia where he played 75 matches for Sturt in the SANFL and spent a season on the Adelaide Crows rookie list, Twitt was a key player in Wagga Tigers' 2001 premiership win in the Riverina league.

Wagga Tigers unsuccessfully tried to join the Ovens and Murray league and when they decided to play in the Canberra AFL competition Twitt joined Wodonga.

Twitt has also represented the VCFL the last two seasons.

In an ironic twist, Nathon Irvin, who has coached Wagga Tigers for the last three seasons, was set to take the Wodonga job before dropping out at the last minute.

The Bulldogs swung their attention to Koroit premier¬ship coach Jason Mifsud in the search for fresh blood at Martin Park, but he also turned down the role.

Twitt will be the Bulldogs' first playing coach since pre¬miership team-mate Leon Higgins who stepped down early in the 2002 season.

Meanwhile, Paul and Nev Nugent were made life members of Wodonga at the club's annual meeting on Monday night.

Paul Nugent is regarded as one of the best ruckman in the Bulldogs' history and earned selection in the club's Team-of-the-Century.

Paul and Nev played alongside eachother in Wodonga's most recent premiership team.


yes but who is coaching the doggies seconds now that 'the beast' is no longer in charge??????

[David Johnston]

McKee is a s h i t footballer and an even worse bloke. He played at my club this year and is always injured and refuses to train. He is no threat to any league or oppostion footballers...soft as butter.

I am not a fan of the Pies, but isn't this a bit harsh?
How many games did he play?

[Here It Is]

Did he win any league B&F medals while he was playing in the BDFL. I know he didnt win it this year.

I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe Brunner streeted the field in the league medal in Devenish's premiership year of 2004.
Personally never saw the best of him and will always regret it.

[centreman]

I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe Brunner streeted the field in the league medal in Devenish's premiership year of 2004.
Personally never saw the best of him and will always regret it.

Won the medal, but they didn't win the premiership that year. they were beaten by Bonnie Doon.

[Here It Is]

Won the medal, but they didn't win the premiership that year. they were beaten by Bonnie Doon.

Am I a year out?

I thought Devenish won 04 and lost 05 to Bonnie Doon by 100+ points.
Was it 03 and 04 I'm thinking about????

[centreman]

Am I a year out?

I thought Devenish won 04 and lost 05 to Bonnie Doon by 100+ points.
Was it 03 and 04 I'm thinking about????

Lost big time in 2004 and I think they won it in 2003. Not sure if they won it this year, but I know they definetely lost in 2004 cos I watched the game.

[Scribe]

I am not a fan of the Pies, but isn't this a bit harsh?
How many games did he play?

I don't think whether you support Collingwood, Richmond or Myrtleford should affect the view of brianspeaking on the lack of committment and effort from one S. McKee last year.

Having reaped the benefits of the St Kevin's network to land a job with one of the Big 4 accounting/consulting firms, he proceeded to pull the boots on erratically and took himself off the ground in thier critical round 13 clash when relegation loomed large. They proceeded to go back to B section and McKee was on the bus to Myrtleford quicker than you could say "where's the footy trip guys?"

That's the basis for the angst, not AFL related, more 1st hand grass roots related. Put the hand out, but forgot or refused to give anything back......

[Mongoose]

Scribe and brianspeaking, you obviously haven't put much thought into your comments about McKee. He spent 10 or so years playing AFL footy and he's is not to blame if if wants to get out and experience the world a bit, during the first year he's not commited to an AFL club. To get out of the AFL and be committed to a side St.Kelvins or what ever you the name of your club is, would be a big ask. It is part and parcel of footy that if you want to recruit a player to your club then 9 out of 10 times you'll have to find that recruit a job, it's just the way it goes. For you girls to have a hissy fit about a bloke that wants to go back to the club that he was drafted from and play with his best mates, rather than stay at a club like yours that is eventually going to back stab him as soon as he leaves, wether it was this year, next year or when ever, probably somes up the character of you club.

[barrybogan]

McKee is a s h i t footballer and an even worse bloke. He played at my club this year and is always injured and refuses to train. He is no threat to any league or oppostion footballers...soft as butter.

I agree with the Mongoose.

McKee gets a bit of a flogging on this forum and I don't think it’s really warranted - he's a good bloke. Someone at SKOBs may have helped him land a job, but the money you're talking isn't much more than a graduate salary and he's finished both an accounting degree and CPA qualification.

If the bloke was getting several pain killing injections in the groin just to train with Richmond pre-season last summer, the chances of him playing a full season last year were always going to be pretty slim.


So chill out BS and any other knockers. If he wants to go and play with the mates he grew up with in the bush and see a bit more of his family instead of playing Ammos then good luck to him. Too many people have a crack at players in the Ammos like they owe their club everything, when they play there for nothing.

[gnik]

BRIANSPEAKING AND SCRIBE, I dont think it is fair that you two put the blame on McKee for getting relogated. Just Remember that footy is a team sport and that one player (who you believe cant play anyhow) could make such a huge impact. Maybe you should get back to St.Kevs and have a real crack. I can understand your hurt to lose the big man, i just dont think that it is fair to bag him. If you were real blokes you would be wishing him luck with his dicision. You cant blame him from playing where his hart is.

[Scribe]

Dear Mongoose, gnik and barrybogan.

To avoid any confusion, please note I have absolutely no connection with St Kevins. I did, however, observe McKee from close proximity in 2005 as I am still playing with Old Trinity and am the Secretary of that club this year. I empathised with brianspeaking because I understand the lengths the club went to in attracting McKee - and they warranted a greater return than they received. Simple fact. It's happened before and it'll happen again. Another fact is Simon Garlick also played and was far more useful, yet probably had even less incentive to perform than McKee (i.e. they didn't tee up a job for Garlick). I'm just suggesting those at Myrtleford who think he may be just what they need to win a flag had better keep their enthusiasm in check until they see first hand exactly what he's prepared to contribute.

Thank you all for your indulgence, I trust your misunderstanding has been clarified.

However, in response to your specific comments:

Mongoose - your posting contains so much material which would require retraction against me, that I won't bother commenting further, except to say it was a less-than-auspicious debut.

Barrybogan - you're correct in the sense the big recruits are playing VAFA footy for nothing (i.e. no monetary incentives). However, when a $45K a year job, which may be the start of a long career, is made available, you could argue it's even better than $800 a game at a suburban or country club. Granted, it's up to the individual to put the runs on the board career-wise, but the opportunity provided does, in my opinion, warrant more in return than a few appearances and no training with a view to getting the body right to play A grade footy.

gnik - I didn't blame McKee for SKOBs getting relegated. Though I'm grateful he did play because it upset their balance. Naturally, I won't be going back to SKOBs and having a real crack, as I'm already doing so at Trinity (and have been for the past 14 seasons). Consider this, if McKee is now playing where his heart is, then why didn't he go straight back there last year, instead of playing a handful of games in town, securing himself a job, and then shooting through.

[barrybogan]

ok scribe,

i just meant that the obligation owed as a result of skobs networking shouldn't be blown out of proportion. steve was well qualified when he finished up his AFL career and had a number of job opportunities because of that.

and i think the posts from mongoose and gnik were also directed at you because you fully backed up brian's insults about the bloke which weren't on.

[T.Perry]

On a lighter note, and more related to happenings in the O&M - heard from a very reliable source that former Northern Bullant player, Loz Furlan, has signed with Yarrawonga.

Not sure how many senior games he's played all up at the ants, but a very smart mover with silky foot skills. He is also fantastic below his knees and knows how to find the pill. Will be a quality signing for Yarra, but I wouldn't expect him to be in the top echelon of on-ballers in the league..

[journeyman]

On a lighter note, and more related to happenings in the O&M - heard from a very reliable source that former Northern Bullant player, Loz Furlan, has signed with Yarrawonga.

Not sure how many senior games he's played all up at the ants, but a very smart mover with silky foot skills. He is also fantastic below his knees and knows how to find the pill. Will be a quality signing for Yarra, but I wouldn't expect him to be in the top echelon of on-ballers in the league..

As usual you're on the ball T. Perry. Yarra has got such a good onball brigade with Hargraves, Wild and Ednie that he'll prob spend a lot of time up forward. A good pick up

[FOOTYBOSS]

On a lighter note, and more related to happenings in the O&M - heard from a very reliable source that former Northern Bullant player, Loz Furlan, has signed with Yarrawonga.

Not sure how many senior games he's played all up at the ants, but a very smart mover with silky foot skills. He is also fantastic below his knees and knows how to find the pill. Will be a quality signing for Yarra, but I wouldn't expect him to be in the top echelon of on-ballers in the league..
Feel sorry for Yarrawonga therer. Fair enough he might be a half decent player but he is an absolute shocking bloke. Wouldnt want him on any of my teams at all.

[journeyman]

Feel sorry for Yarrawonga therer. Fair enough he might be a half decent player but he is an absolute shocking bloke. Wouldnt want him on any of my teams at all.

That's a big call footyboss. Have you had a run in with him

[FOOTYBOSS]

That's a big call footyboss. Have you had a run in with him
We have crossed paths at some stage of our footy careers and he is one bloke I never got along with. Thinks his alot better than he actually is.

[bigblackalsation]

I am not a fan of the Pies, but isn't this a bit harsh?
How many games did he play?

You my friend are nothing but a typical winging amateur snob. He is a top bloke, who may not have fitted up all your behinds at Skevs. He would have been far too down to earth for you guys, why don't you also take into account that Richmond were going to re-draft him, but for his injuries, stay iin the amo's and on your side of the yarra you tapeworm.

[bigblackalsation]

I agree with the Mongoose.

McKee gets a bit of a flogging on this forum and I don't think it’s really warranted - he's a good bloke. Someone at SKOBs may have helped him land a job, but the money you're talking isn't much more than a graduate salary and he's finished both an accounting degree and CPA qualification.

If the bloke was getting several pain killing injections in the groin just to train with Richmond pre-season last summer, the chances of him playing a full season last year were always going to be pretty slim.


So chill out BS and any other knockers. If he wants to go and play with the mates he grew up with in the bush and see a bit more of his family instead of playing Ammos then good luck to him. Too many people have a crack at players in the Ammos like they owe their club everything, when they play there for nothing.


FULLY AGREED S.MCKEE IS A TOPBLOKE HE HAS COPPED A FLOGGING BUT LIKE I SAID IN ANOTHER RESPONSE. ST.KEVINS AND ALL DA SNOBS ASSOCIATED WITH THE JOINT NEED TO KEEP RECRUITING TO THEIR SIDE OF THE YARRA AND NOT ATTACK GOOD OLD FASHIONED DOWN TO EARTH COUNTRY BOYS. I WAS SUPRISED STEVE EVEN WENT THERE KNOWING THE BLOKE HE IS, HE WAS NEVER GONNA FIT IN.

I HOPE THE AMMOS FRONT VIC COUNTRY THIS YEAR AND IM SURE S.MCKEE WILL BE NO.1 VCFL RUCK AND SLAUGHTER THE SILVERSPOON AMATEUR OR ARROGANCE FOOTBALL LEAGUE.

[Here It Is]

You my friend are nothing but a typical winging amateur snob. He is a top bloke, who may not have fitted up all your behinds at Skevs. He would have been far too down to earth for you guys, why don't you also take into account that Richmond were going to re-draft him, but for his injuries, stay iin the amo's and on your side of the yarra you tapeworm.

Are you sure you directed this comment at the right bloke?
He is an O&M follower whose comment is in favour of McKee.
No affiliation with any club in Melbourne and certainly not St Kevins, Richmond or Collingwood.
Take a look at who you're attacking before you attack them.

Besides, no one has answered his question of how many games McKee played, which should have proven he wasn't a St Kevins person.

And I'm not affiliated with any Melbourne club either and had only heard of St Kevins by following scores in the paper. I don't even know who is in the competition or what colours they wear.

[T.Perry]

Feel sorry for Yarrawonga therer. Fair enough he might be a half decent player but he is an absolute shocking bloke. Wouldnt want him on any of my teams at all.

Obviously you're entitled to your opinion footyboss, and it's unlikely that anyone who plays a lot of footy will get along with every teammate they play with over their career, but to all the Yarrawonga fans out there, I'm at least one bloke who reckons he's a top bloke and a top player. The only thing that might upset them about him is that he's pretty injury prone. I hope he stays injury-free and has a top season for them.

[barrybogan]

Saints to step onto big stage by David Johnston

MYRTLEFORD has snared a once in a lifetime opportunity to play in a curtain-raiser to an AFL pre-season match at Aurora Stadium at Launceston next season.

The Saints, who lost the grand final by a heart-breaking one point this season, will play VFL team Tasmania Devils ahead of the round two NAB Cup on March 4.

The Devils are coached by Mathew Armstrong and reached the preliminary final this season and lost to the Northern Bullants.

In a further boost, the Saints have secured Northern Bullants defender Paul Bunn and former club best and fairest winner Luke Browne for next season.

"The guys will be playing at an AFL standard facility where the surface is rated by AFL players as second to none in the country," Saints president Bill O'Donohue said yesterday.

"The team will potentially be playing in front of a crowd of around 15,000 people in the last quarter.

"We want to continue to raise the profile of our footy club.

"They will travel and prepare for a game against team playing in the second best standard of footy in Australia.

"It can only be beneficial for our younger players and also gives our leading players a chance to pit their skills against players of the calibre of former AFL players Trent Bartlett and Ben Beams and this season's Liston Trophy winner Ian Callinan."

The chance to play at Aurora Stadium was opened up by Saints director Andrew Dale, who is a consultant to the Tasmania Government which underwrites football at Aurora Stadium.

The Saints players will meet some of the costs of playing at Launceston.

"The club sees it as an investment in our club and playing group by giving them the chance to experience football at an extremely high level," O'Donohue said.


This would be a big test for any country side. I believe that Myrtleford stocks have been bolstered since last year's grand final defeat but can they compete with, or even beat, a VFL side that played in finals last year?

What is the step up in standard like? I know there were quite a few players that jumped between the two leagues when the Murray Kangaroos were around.

[T.Perry]

[/QUOTE]
This would be a big test for any country side. I believe that Myrtleford stocks have been bolstered since last year's grand final defeat but can they compete with, or even beat, a VFL side that played in finals last year?

What is the step up in standard like? I know there were quite a few players that jumped between the two leagues when the Murray Kangaroos were around.[/QUOTE]

Put it this way - Paul Bunn (who is a fantastic player and an even better bloke), will definitely be in Myrtelford's top 3 players, and wouldn't get a game for Tassie's VFL side...

I remember one year at the bullants our 3rds side (made up of blokes who primarily didn't even make the list, but did the entire pre-season), played Castlemaine, who the year before made (or won ?) the Bendigo FL Grand Final, and brought down their best side (including goal-kicking legend and ex-Carlton player Stephen Oliver), and beat them by 20 goals...

Now I know that a lot of people will think that the O&M is a fair bit stronger than the Bendigo FL, but the point I'm trying to make is, a side that was made up of blokes not good enough to play VFL SECONDS smashed a major league senior side...what do you think a VFL SENIOR side will do to a major league senior side...

hate to say it, but I think Myrtleford are in for a pasting...

[TuskenRaider]

This would be a big test for any country side. I believe that Myrtleford stocks have been bolstered since last year's grand final defeat but can they compete with, or even beat, a VFL side that played in finals last year?

What is the step up in standard like? I know there were quite a few players that jumped between the two leagues when the Murray Kangaroos were around.[/QUOTE]

Put it this way - Paul Bunn (who is a fantastic player and an even better bloke), will definitely be in Myrtelford's top 3 players, and wouldn't get a game for Tassie's VFL side...

I remember one year at the bullants our 3rds side (made up of blokes who primarily didn't even make the list, but did the entire pre-season), played Castlemaine, who the year before made (or won ?) the Bendigo FL Grand Final, and brought down their best side (including goal-kicking legend and ex-Carlton player Stephen Oliver), and beat them by 20 goals...

Now I know that a lot of people will think that the O&M is a fair bit stronger than the Bendigo FL, but the point I'm trying to make is, a side that was made up of blokes not good enough to play VFL SECONDS smashed a major league senior side...what do you think a VFL SENIOR side will do to a major league senior side...

hate to say it, but I think Myrtleford are in for a pasting...[/QUOTE]
I would think the Devils wouldn't be fielding a team near their strongest side.

However, it will still be very interesting. Am looking forward to seeing the result. Yes, the O&M is a lot stronger than the BFL but you're right in that the job will be ahead of the Saints.

It's only going to be beneficial to Myrtleford though, a great experience.

[HawkeEye]

Any news on how Daniel Maher is shaping up this year.

[journeyman]

Any news on how Daniel Maher is shaping up this year.

I imagine you know he is going to Albury. He returned to Vic in December from Perth (where he finished 2nd and 3rd in b&f in two years). He is living in Benalla working for his old man and travelling up to Albury for training. He's keen to move to Albury soon and have a more settled lifestyle for his wife and 2 kids.
Mahery always keeps himself in good nick and he should be one of the leading onballers in the league. He'll be a real asset to Albury on and off the field

[Mongoose]

All in all it's going to be a very interesting year of Ovens & Murray Football. I think with North Albury And Wodonga Raiders both picking up several recruits each that it is going to be a very very close comp this year. (Wangaratta Rovers will be 2006 wooden spooners.)

If players from all clubs put their hands up to represent the league at this years Country championships it would be a very strong side. It would be interesting to see if anyone could produce their strongest possible side for all to veiw.

[TuskenRaider]

All in all it's going to be a very interesting year of Ovens & Murray Football. I think with North Albury And Wodonga Raiders both picking up several recruits each that it is going to be a very very close comp this year. (Wangaratta Rovers will be 2006 wooden spooners.)

.
What's happening at Wang Rovers? It would be a while since they've been that far down the ladder wouldn't it?

They were very strong throughout the 90's and early 00's.

[harsh, but fair]

All in all it's going to be a very interesting year of Ovens & Murray Football. I think with North Albury And Wodonga Raiders both picking up several recruits each that it is going to be a very very close comp this year. (Wangaratta Rovers will be 2006 wooden spooners.)

If players from all clubs put their hands up to represent the league at this years Country championships it would be a very strong side. It would be interesting to see if anyone could produce their strongest possible side for all to veiw.

This is what everyone has to beat.
MYRTLEFORD
B: S. Roche, L. Chapman, L. Martyn
HB: P. Bunn, B. Piltz, B. McPherson
C: B, Jones, B. Murray, J. Carey
HF: S. Peters, D. Steer, C. Rigoni
F: S. McKee, T. Hodgson, S. Nightingale
FOLL: B. McIntyre, A. Carey
ROVER: R. Fitzpatrick
INTER: N. Purss, M. Murray, H. Murray
Apologies to anyone I have overlooked.

[half time lollies]

Have recently heard that Wodonga star on baller Matt Shir could be heading back to the GVFL to play with his home club Benalla. Although injuries kept him from his best last season he would be a huge loss!

[flagpie]

This is what everyone has to beat.
MYRTLEFORD
B: S. Roche, L. Chapman, L. Martyn
HB: P. Bunn, B. Piltz, B. McPherson
C: B, Jones, B. Murray, J. Carey
HF: S. Peters, D. Steer, C. Rigoni
F: S. McKee, T. Hodgson, S. Nightingale
FOLL: B. McIntyre, A. Carey
ROVER: R. Fitzpatrick
INTER: N. Purss, M. Murray, H. Murray
Apologies to anyone I have overlooked.

M. Murray can only sneak a position on the bench????

[Mongoose]

This is what everyone has to beat.
MYRTLEFORD
B: S. Roche, L. Chapman, L. Martyn
HB: P. Bunn, B. Piltz, B. McPherson
C: B, Jones, B. Murray, J. Carey
HF: S. Peters, D. Steer, C. Rigoni
F: S. McKee, T. Hodgson, S. Nightingale
FOLL: B. McIntyre, A. Carey
ROVER: R. Fitzpatrick
INTER: N. Purss, M. Murray, H. Murray
Apologies to anyone I have overlooked.

You could also at to that list : Brett McNamara
Luke Browne
Tristan Purss
Sam Cartwright
Lucien Dean Johns
Jono Watson
Justin Maybury
Ben Dawson

[flagpie]

Have recently heard that Wodonga star on baller Matt Shir could be heading back to the GVFL to play with his home club Benalla. Although injuries kept him from his best last season he would be a huge loss!

I've also heard he could be headed back to the GV, although I think Shepp United are right into him as well.

Word is he's not the happiest of campers at Martin Park.

[harsh, but fair]

I've also heard he could be headed back to the GV, although I think Shepp United are right into him as well.

Word is he's not the happiest of campers at Martin Park.

I reckon Matt Shir starts half these stories himself.
He is rock solid at Martin Park and will be a Bulldog in 2006 no question.

[harsh, but fair]

M. Murray can only sneak a position on the bench????

A handy player granted, but coming back from a knee injury and the only spot available is a back pocket which was capably filled by Luke Martyn when he got his chance last year.
No guarantees in this line-up as you will see with the players who were squeezed out of this "best side".

[flagpie]

A handy player granted, but coming back from a knee injury and the only spot available is a back pocket which was capably filled by Luke Martyn when he got his chance last year.
No guarantees in this line-up as you will see with the players who were squeezed out of this "best side".

Fair call harsh, but fair ... Also noticed you had no room for B. Jose??

[half time lollies]

I reckon Matt Shir starts half these stories himself.
He is rock solid at Martin Park and will be a Bulldog in 2006 no question.

You are probably not far off the mark in regards to Shiry starting the stories himself. However he did have a meeting with Richard Bence late last week i think and he wasn't to impressed with the outcome of this little chat. He may end up playing at Wodonga but i would suggest that he is far from rock solid for '06'!

[harsh, but fair]

Fair call harsh, but fair ... Also noticed you had no room for B. Jose??

I will treat that remark regarding B. Jose with the contempt it deserves!
By the way how is the wing and have you started training yet with your new club?

[harsh, but fair]

You are probably not far off the mark in regards to Shiry starting the stories himself. However he did have a meeting with Richard Bence late last week i think and he wasn't to impressed with the outcome of this little chat. He may end up playing at Wodonga but i would suggest that he is far from rock solid for '06'!

I reckon Matt Shir is in the top 3 players in the comp if not the best, but he causes plenty of grief at this time of the year.
He just needs to pull his head in and get back to the form he showed in 2004 when the Doggies won the flag.
I thought he would be happy after Craig Cleary decided to fall on his sword (or did he?), but seems not.

[Mongoose]

Fair call harsh, but fair ... Also noticed you had no room for B. Jose??

Funny you say that flagpie, herd a whisper the other the day that he (b.jose) has been training the house down.

Also Luke Martyn is training with Bendigo Bombers and is more than likely not playing for myrt.

[flagpie]

Funny you say that flagpie, herd a whisper the other the day that he (b.jose) has been training the house down.

Also Luke Martyn is training with Bendigo Bombers and is more than likely not playing for myrt.

Yeah, I've also heard he's been training pretty well.

Seen him and his housemate doing some hard yards along the hills of Pemberton St last week.

Big Josie was a couple of yards behind but was putting in all the same.

[flagpie]

I will treat that remark regarding B. Jose with the contempt it deserves!
By the way how is the wing and have you started training yet with your new club?

The wing is going well thanks and training has been good.

Have been training for the past couple of weeks and been able to do everything except one competitive drill.

It's been hot and hard but it's been good.

[Vafa06]

Does anyone know any information on Joel Egan, new recruit to Yarrawonga. He signed last week on rumoured to be big dollars. Previous club was St.bernards in the VAFA. Word has it Clint Runnalls had alot to do with his signing.

[harsh, but fair]

The wing is going well thanks and training has been good.

Have been training for the past couple of weeks and been able to do everything except one competitive drill.

It's been hot and hard but it's been good.

Many on the track at this stage?
Who are looking all right?
Any word on the gun mid-fielder they are chasing?

[flagpie]

Many on the track at this stage?
Who are looking all right?
Any word on the gun mid-fielder they are chasing?

There's been about 25-30 every night I've been there.

Don't know too much about the gun midfielder but apparently they were right in the mix for Stevens which I didn't know until last night.

Was talking to Shaun Daly in Albury last week ... Think Will Gayfer will be back at Corowa ... He'll either go to uni in Albury and be a Roo or go to uni at Ballarat and play somewhere there.

Much other O and M news on the go??

[harsh, but fair]

There's been about 25-30 every night I've been there.

Don't know too much about the gun midfielder but apparently they were right in the mix for Stevens which I didn't know until last night.

Was talking to Shaun Daly in Albury last week ... Think Will Gayfer will be back at Corowa ... He'll either go to uni in Albury and be a Roo or go to uni at Ballarat and play somewhere there.

Much other O and M news on the go??

Roos will have a good spine if they pick up Gayfer to play fb or chb, Kade Kuschert (fb or chb), Joycey in the guts and Ambrose (??), Newman and Jay Campbell floating around in the forward line.
I did hear the Roos weighed in late for Mick Stevens, but alas not to be.
Any word whether Craig Tafft will come back?
If so the Roos look pretty potent and will be one of 3-4 teams looming as the biggest danger to Myrteford along with Wang and Lavington.

[flagpie]

Roos will have a good spine if they pick up Gayfer to play fb or chb, Kade Kuschert (fb or chb), Joycey in the guts and Ambrose (??), Newman and Jay Campbell floating around in the forward line.
I did hear the Roos weighed in late for Mick Stevens, but alas not to be.
Any word whether Craig Tafft will come back?
If so the Roos look pretty potent and will be one of 3-4 teams looming as the biggest danger to Myrteford along with Wang and Lavington.

Not real sure what Ambrose is doing, haven't heard anything.

I do remember speaking to Wiz last year though and he did say big Curtly might have been getting a bit sick of travelling so will just see what happens I suppose.

Haven't heard anything about Tafft either, you couldn't be very confident of him playing though.

How are Lavi travelling??

Have heard one of the taller members of their premiership side could be off to Holbrook as A/C??

[harsh, but fair]

That rumour about Adam Mathews departing Lavington still hasn't gone away?

[flagpie]

That rumour about Adam Mathews departing Lavington still hasn't gone away?

Nah, it won't seem to ... keep on hearing it around the traps.

[coreybrown]

They would just want to hope

[harsh, but fair]

The OM is mourning the death of league stalwart Peter "Milko" Bruhn who died early on Monday morning after a battle with lung cancer.
As well as following his beloved North Albury Hoppers, Milko was one of those blokes who loved being involved at inter-league time.
Unlike a few who have jumped on the band-wagon at recent times and got the free polo top, Milko actually put in and gained the respect of all concerned.
He received a volunteer of the year award at a Morris Medal night a couple of years ago and was very emotional.
Top bloke who will be sadly missed.
His funeral is in Albury on Wed.

[tacka]

Can anyone out there tell me about Luke Martin from Myrtleford (any good) and Kristain Shevlin(as above). Believe are on move towards Swan Hill way???

[harsh, but fair]

I can report Martyn was a very reliable defender for Myrtleford by the end of the season.
Got his chance with a couple of injuries to tall backmen including full-back Luke Chapman and Mark Murray and did the job well in a team which went from woeful wooden-spooners to one-point losers in the grand final with a goal after the siren.
I would have thought he would be one player the Saints would be keen to hang onto, but obviously not.
Has trained with the Bendigo Bombers pre-season, but won't get a look in at their senior VFL side.
Haven't heard of the other bloke.

[8888]

Does anyone have any information regarding a young kid from Yarrawonga named Tyler Bonet?

[8888]

Also Hoping To Get Information About A Half Forward Named Adrian Newman From Corowa

[Xander]

Have heard a rumour that the Wang magpies have approached two seymour footballers - one of which lives in wangaratta? Does anyone know anything about this?

[half time lollies]

Have heard a rumour that the Wang magpies have approached two seymour footballers - one of which lives in wangaratta? Does anyone know anything about this?

The Seymour footballer who lives in Wang would be Brendan Liddell. He works there as a physio. Very handy player who is good around the goals. He played with Wodonga Raiders while studying in Albury but didn't do a lot due to limited opportunity and placements interstate for his uni degree. I don't think he will play at Wang this year as his 2 brothers are playing for Seymour. So no chance this year but he may play there in 2007. Not sure who the other player they have approached is!

Cheers.

[half time lollies]

Heard a rumour that Yarrawonga have won the race to sign Bullants ruckman/forward Michael Hooper. Can anyone confirm this?? Not a reliable source so it might be bull********!

[bigblackalsation]

Heard a rumour that Yarrawonga have won the race to sign Bullants ruckman/forward Michael Hooper. Can anyone confirm this?? Not a reliable source so it might be bull********!

They have but unfortunately for them it's just as his second club. He will keep the Ants as his no.1 club this year.

[bigblackalsation]

Also Hoping To Get Information About A Half Forward Named Adrian Newman From Corowa

Newman can play he's an Altona boy, he'd be around 27 or 8 .Won Port Melbourne 2's goal kicking and don't quote me but i think the leagues, when they won the flag in 04. Previously played with Port Colts in the WRFL. Is more than capable of holding down Full Forward as well.

[HJ32]

What about the wang maggies approaching Sam Hill? any truth in that one?

[HJ32]

The Seymour footballer who lives in Wang would be Brendan Liddell. He works there as a physio. Very handy player who is good around the goals. He played with Wodonga Raiders while studying in Albury but didn't do a lot due to limited opportunity and placements interstate for his uni degree. I don't think he will play at Wang this year as his 2 brothers are playing for Seymour. So no chance this year but he may play there in 2007. Not sure who the other player they have approached is!

Cheers.

spot on lollies
You will see Liddell x 3 lining up for Seymour this year.

[Wayne Weideman]

not sure which club this bloke played for around albury but young gun mark sims has signed at bendigo club south bendigo. is going to be doing his uni there this year and wanted to make a few mates and didn't want to travel. by all accounts he goes alright

[8888]

Is It True Newman From Corowa Got The Sack From His Last Job For Having A 45min Hard Hit!!! Can Anyone Confirm For Me?:d:d:d

[Doona2]

Is It True Newman From Corowa Got The Sack From His Last Job For Having A 45min Hard Hit!!! Can Anyone Confirm For Me?:d:d:d

Musta nodded off or had a cotton wool - 45 minutes is a long time in the brasco!!!

[bigblackalsation]

Is It True Newman From Corowa Got The Sack From His Last Job For Having A 45min Hard Hit!!! Can Anyone Confirm For Me?:d:d:d

Port Colts boys are a bit wild so maybeeee?;)