Media Captain Conversations with haydo of the Wonders [ALL NEW]

[TRUMAN#1]

*Too
- 1 EKA vote

I thought too was used in a sentence to mean 'also'

but of course you are right.

 

[Matty411]

Captain Conversations with JoshWoodenSpoon

I’m over half way now in my quest to collect a conversation with every club captain within the SFA. I’ve been around the world and met some great posters, learning a heap about this competition’s history – something that set me off on this journey to begin with. But I’m not done. I was feeling in the need for a bit of a party, so headed to Las Vegas to have a chat with one half of the Bears Captaincy – JoshWoodenSpoon

M411: Cheers for the invite to the bright lights of Las Vegas – the white candy sugar in the foyer was exquisite. I feel like I could run through a brick wall right now.

JWS: Curious, we're having the front-of-house renovated so I'm guessing you've just thrust some powder coating deep up your sinuses. Glad it's getting you along though. Unfortunately, our lot have developed severe tolerance to the real stuff, and can barely run through the banner this season. It's a pleasure to have you in for a chinwag!

M411: Take us through your journey to the SFA and what keeps you here.


JWS: A nameless character prompted my involvement leading in to Season 19, and so my first footsteps in this very league were in fine, Baghdad sand. I keep rather quiet about those years of initiation, but it's fair to say I learnt a lot from my time among Bandits. Such SweetFA champions included (as they were then) beez, eth-dog, Shermy, iDon, saintkildaman, Itsmyshow, Frothies Mcveigh, cammo6556, @Benwatkins, sausageroll, Bigeasy and many, many others. They fascinated me in what could be done with the pill and the pen. The most talented HBF I've ever seen in Squishy was also a brief presence before having their career cruelly cut short - bless. We kicked one of the highest ever totals in my second season and it was all a real thrill. The front-running, lacklustre wing prowess I possess today was crafted in those early years. I suppose I can also mention Matera92, with whom I played qootball.

I think I persist here for the unpredictability. Perhaps that will at some point evaporate for me, but for now the knowledge that at any point we're one brilliant idea or one faulty stumble away from some true fun and glory remains inviting. I don't find it hard to look past the dud weeks, or the discreditable patches, and I feel a lot of that is on account of this sensibility. I take delight in what new-comers bring, and a seat when the old-timers come out for a (sometimes less than) dignified strut. It's all wonderful. I also host grand respect and intrigue for those who are the custodians and historians of the game. That such an extensive and characterful rigmarole about a daft little "piece of crap" QBasic simulation kicks on is hugely charming to me, and I am ever thankful for all who keep the traditions spiraling.


M411: The Bears are one of the few sides that have a co-captain arrangement. Walk me through how that works for you and AngryRanga – do you take it in turns being the big/little spoon?

JWS: It's unquestionably a simple arrangement. I flail about trying to organise things (most often erroneously), while AR does whatever the **** he wants.

There are of course layers of complexity upon that, such as stifling any influence Doctor Gero might hope to have. Earnestly, the Leadership Group is just the best and I know I would be even more ****** without them. Coming in to my first season I knew I would find myself deficient in a lot of areas so having their know-how and sound judgement around the club is vital. Between the three of us and ArgusTuft I think we demonstrate the constructive, jiving and innovative posting that sees clubs enjoy each week they get against us- and not just because of the free win.


M411: Talking about you specifically, how would you say you’ve helped foster the culture at the Bears and for those outside your four walls, how would you describe that culture?

JWS: I've done very little. I came into and benefited from a strong, positive and unique culture in Vegas, and having been told what happens there stays there it sounded like I wouldn't have to lift a finger! My heart is with the Bears and I hope to perpetuate its glories for a good while. What's important to me is that we maintain that which makes us a genuinely fun club, even through the leaner stanzas. We've won shit all games this season, and I'm sure at the end of it will be met with damning infographics detailing our relative post counts and what not, but so long as we're all having a slick time of it I don't really care. I want our members to feel comfortable, supported and valued. I take pride in orchestrating little tidbits of media (banners, qooty cards etc.) for our players, which the bulk of society might quite reasonably consider a waste of time. I also want them to feel like winners but that's a work in progress.


M411: If you could poach any poster to join the Bears (with their blessing or not), who would it be and why?

JWS: I already did it and it was your S25 Mobbs medalist Tommycash.


M411: The Bears are languishing at the bottom of the table so far. What are you doing behind closed doors to turn your season around? Can you make finals?

JWS: We're having an internal review on Monday. Until then I can't comment, other than to say we will either be backing our systems or blowing them to unrecognisable pieces. Thankfully, I bring with me completion of the Level 4 Senior Jigsaw Program, which is internationally renognised.


M411: What’s the best day you’ve had on the Qooty field?

JWS: I won't poach fitz's reponse here, though it's a sentiment I share. Second Semi-Final S23. The glow of reaching a prelim was so bloody exciting!! Dingster positively commanded the game that day, and the to-and-fro of the lead-up between Mateflon and Gero was the stuff of folklore- each getting the best out of the other. It felt like a palpable analogue to Season 22, which ended up boasting a day for the Bears that I could only watch and dream of. Sadly we capitulated the week following, but it's still a day I cherish and seek to advance upon.


M411: What's the difference between JWS the poster and JWS the Qooty player?

JWS: The poster provides underhand 8balls, whilst the player dispatches underground handballs.


M411: I can’t say I’ve heard much from the rookies at the Bears in S25. How do you rate your rookie class and how have they been going?

JWS: We have some true innovators in BombersFan93 and DapperDon. BF93 has timing the likes of which I've never seen and DD takes it up to anyone and everyone. They've been awesome additions among a very strong rookie class league-wide (as much as everyone looks to rag and tread on the new crop each year) and I can't wait to see their successes. We locked BoomerRoo in kane's locker and he has forgotten his code. Quietly thankful the SFAPA has not yet manifested itself. Marv posted a photo of their literal bear chest and then fanged it into the sunset. As fine a pick up as you could hope for.


M411: In your view, what is the most defining event in the history of the SFA?

JWS: The Las Vegas Bears returning to the competition.


M411: If you had to pick one, what would be your personal SFA Career Highlight?

JWS: Getting snubbed for a wing spot in last year's All-SFA, and unceremoniously pipping Gero for the Bears' BnF were highlights as far as personal accolades go. In terms of production I was quite fond of my 'SFA Craft Resources you just HAVE to have this season!' thread. Any time one can elicit a concoction of bemusement and glee is one to celebrate I think. Being as inclusive in media as possible is something I look for. Nothing tops the honour of representing the grand old Bears though.


M411: Any advice for me and my fellow rookies starting out?

JWS: Not really, other than to be unafraid of innovating and taking to your posting career boldly. This place can always use fresh voices and as much as some folk might look to cut you down, it's likely just their way of getting by in the league and nothing to concern yourself over. You can fight back, be self-deprecating, deflect to a teammate, apply one of our many hilarious emoticons or simply let your Qooty do the talking. Or do something I haven't thought of! This league should pose no obligations, nor any limits outside of being respectful, keeping to the rules, and 10MB uploads. Go at your own speed and enjoy the farce you're a part of!


M411: Cheers for the chat and all the best go to the Bears in S26.

JWS: Ta! Hooroo and keep it up. ♥


Please note that Captain Conversations will be taking a break but will be back in a few weeks.

 

[JoshWoodenSpoon]

M411: Cheers for the chat and all the best go to the Bears in S26.

Wow Matty this is really true! Take note everyone.

 

[Matty411]

Wow Matty this is really true! Take note everyone.

Haha and s25 if you don’t mind. Maybe it was subconscious given we’ve already sown up S25.

 

[BLERN]

Captain Conversations with JoshWoodenSpoon

I’m over half way now in my quest to collect a conversation with every club captain within the SFA. I’ve been around the world and met some great posters, learning a heap about this competition’s history – something that set me off on this journey to begin with. But I’m not done. I was feeling in the need for a bit of a party, so headed to Las Vegas to have a chat with one half of the Bears Captaincy – JoshWoodenSpoon

M411: Cheers for the invite to the bright lights of Las Vegas – the white candy sugar in the foyer was exquisite. I feel like I could run through a brick wall right now.

JWS: Curious, we're having the front-of-house renovated so I'm guessing you've just thrust some powder coating deep up your sinuses. Glad it's getting you along though. Unfortunately, our lot have developed severe tolerance to the real stuff, and can barely run through the banner this season. It's a pleasure to have you in for a chinwag!

M411: Take us through your journey to the SFA and what keeps you here.


JWS: A nameless character prompted my involvement leading in to Season 19, and so my first footsteps in this very league were in fine, Baghdad sand. I keep rather quiet about those years of initiation, but it's fair to say I learnt a lot from my time among Bandits. Such SweetFA champions included (as they were then) beez, eth-dog, Shermy, iDon, saintkildaman, Itsmyshow, Frothies Mcveigh, cammo6556, @Benwatkins, sausageroll, Bigeasy and many, many others. They fascinated me in what could be done with the pill and the pen. The most talented HBF I've ever seen in Squishy was also a brief presence before having their career cruelly cut short - bless. We kicked one of the highest ever totals in my second season and it was all a real thrill. The front-running, lacklustre wing prowess I possess today was crafted in those early years. I suppose I can also mention Matera92, with whom I played qootball.

I think I persist here for the unpredictability. Perhaps that will at some point evaporate for me, but for now the knowledge that at any point we're one brilliant idea or one faulty stumble away from some true fun and glory remains inviting. I don't find it hard to look past the dud weeks, or the discreditable patches, and I feel a lot of that is on account of this sensibility. I take delight in what new-comers bring, and a seat when the old-timers come out for a (sometimes less than) dignified strut. It's all wonderful. I also host grand respect and intrigue for those who are the custodians and historians of the game. That such an extensive and characterful rigmarole about a daft little "piece of crap" QBasic simulation kicks on is hugely charming to me, and I am ever thankful for all who keep the traditions spiraling.


M411: The Bears are one of the few sides that have a co-captain arrangement. Walk me through how that works for you and AngryRanga – do you take it in turns being the big/little spoon?

JWS: It's unquestionably a simple arrangement. I flail about trying to organise things (most often erroneously), while AR does whatever the **** he wants.

There are of course layers of complexity upon that, such as stifling any influence Doctor Gero might hope to have. Earnestly, the Leadership Group is just the best and I know I would be even more ****** without them. Coming in to my first season I knew I would find myself deficient in a lot of areas so having their know-how and sound judgement around the club is vital. Between the three of us and ArgusTuft I think we demonstrate the constructive, jiving and innovative posting that sees clubs enjoy each week they get against us- and not just because of the free win.


M411: Talking about you specifically, how would you say you’ve helped foster the culture at the Bears and for those outside your four walls, how would you describe that culture?

JWS: I've done very little. I came into and benefited from a strong, positive and unique culture in Vegas, and having been told what happens there stays there it sounded like I wouldn't have to lift a finger! My heart is with the Bears and I hope to perpetuate its glories for a good while. What's important to me is that we maintain that which makes us a genuinely fun club, even through the leaner stanzas. We've won shit all games this season, and I'm sure at the end of it will be met with damning infographics detailing our relative post counts and what not, but so long as we're all having a slick time of it I don't really care. I want our members to feel comfortable, supported and valued. I take pride in orchestrating little tidbits of media (banners, qooty cards etc.) for our players, which the bulk of society might quite reasonably consider a waste of time. I also want them to feel like winners but that's a work in progress.


M411: If you could poach any poster to join the Bears (with their blessing or not), who would it be and why?

JWS: I already did it and it was your S25 Mobbs medalist Tommycash.


M411: The Bears are languishing at the bottom of the table so far. What are you doing behind closed doors to turn your season around? Can you make finals?

JWS: We're having an internal review on Monday. Until then I can't comment, other than to say we will either be backing our systems or blowing them to unrecognisable pieces. Thankfully, I bring with me completion of the Level 4 Senior Jigsaw Program, which is internationally renognised.


M411: What’s the best day you’ve had on the Qooty field?

JWS: I won't poach fitz's reponse here, though it's a sentiment I share. Second Semi-Final S23. The glow of reaching a prelim was so bloody exciting!! Dingster positively commanded the game that day, and the to-and-fro of the lead-up between Mateflon and Gero was the stuff of folklore- each getting the best out of the other. It felt like a palpable analogue to Season 22, which ended up boasting a day for the Bears that I could only watch and dream of. Sadly we capitulated the week following, but it's still a day I cherish and seek to advance upon.


M411: What's the difference between JWS the poster and JWS the Qooty player?

JWS: The poster provides underhand 8balls, whilst the player dispatches underground handballs.


M411: I can’t say I’ve heard much from the rookies at the Bears in S25. How do you rate your rookie class and how have they been going?

JWS: We have some true innovators in BombersFan93 and DapperDon. BF93 has timing the likes of which I've never seen and DD takes it up to anyone and everyone. They've been awesome additions among a very strong rookie class league-wide (as much as everyone looks to rag and tread on the new crop each year) and I can't wait to see their successes. We locked BoomerRoo in kane's locker and he has forgotten his code. Quietly thankful the SFAPA has not yet manifested itself. Marv posted a photo of their literal bear chest and then fanged it into the sunset. As fine a pick up as you could hope for.


M411: In your view, what is the most defining event in the history of the SFA?

JWS: The Las Vegas Bears returning to the competition.


M411: If you had to pick one, what would be your personal SFA Career Highlight?

JWS: Getting snubbed for a wing spot in last year's All-SFA, and unceremoniously pipping Gero for the Bears' BnF were highlights as far as personal accolades go. In terms of production I was quite fond of my 'SFA Craft Resources you just HAVE to have this season!' thread. Any time one can elicit a concoction of bemusement and glee is one to celebrate I think. Being as inclusive in media as possible is something I look for. Nothing tops the honour of representing the grand old Bears though.


M411: Any advice for me and my fellow rookies starting out?

JWS: Not really, other than to be unafraid of innovating and taking to your posting career boldly. This place can always use fresh voices and as much as some folk might look to cut you down, it's likely just their way of getting by in the league and nothing to concern yourself over. You can fight back, be self-deprecating, deflect to a teammate, apply one of our many hilarious emoticons or simply let your Qooty do the talking. Or do something I haven't thought of! This league should pose no obligations, nor any limits outside of being respectful, keeping to the rules, and 10MB uploads. Go at your own speed and enjoy the farce you're a part of!


M411: Cheers for the chat and all the best go to the Bears in S26.

JWS: Ta! Hooroo and keep it up. ♥


Please note that Captain Conversations will be taking a break but will be back in a few weeks.

Very good. I do really enjoy these.

 

[JoshWoodenSpoon]

Matty I should also mention a memorable day on the qooty field that occurred outside of regulation SFA proceedings in the drazah Memorial Match. My thoughts on that game will remain in the thread, but it was a very special and significant occasion, one I was truly proud to be involved with, and of course garnished with a bit of fun! Thanks to Ant Bear, Hate, The Filth Wizard, Blacky and Cloud_ for that landmark tribute.

 

[Matty411]

Captain Conversations with Blaze Storm

After having a few weeks off, I’m back into Captain Conversations mode – making my way through the remaining four clubs for S25. First up, I decided to make the long ferry ride over to Dragon Island – dodging the smoke and fire to find one half of the Dragon head in Blaze Storm

M411: G’day Blaze, how’re you feeling after the big win over the Roys? The Dragons are sitting nicely at 6-4 in fifth position now, so you must be happy.

BS: The Roys win was unexpected, but it is always nice to get over the line. There were a lot of strong contributions all over the ground, so that was a positive sign for the sim. But also, to the Roys-

M411: Let’s say the H&A season ended this week, how do you like your chances of the first club flag since S19?

BS: I think our chance of winning each finals game would be about 50%, so from 5th on the ladder, that would have us needing to win three games in a row, which would give us approximately a 12.5% chance of winning the premiership. If we could increase our ladder position one space, we'd go up to about a 37.5% chance.

M411: I respect a man who knows his numbers. How do you find co-captaining the club with Hatchy1992? What’s that dynamic like?

BS: Am I supposed to be answering these with gifs? Because I feel like that's in the spirit of the league.

Seriously, though the dynamic is pretty good. Hatchy does most of the grunt work like organising the team sheets, he's basically the true captain, and I just signed on to help him. I just do bits and pieces and discuss in the leadership group, but I would leave the final say up to him if we disagreed on something. I volunteered to track the stats, but I think I've had to redo about 50% of them because excel hates me.

M411: As an extension of that question, you’ve got some big names in the Dragons’ LG – is it a case of ‘too many cooks in the kitchen’ or is everyone pretty cruisy?

BS: The latter. It's the cruisiest PM I've ever been in on this site. Hatchy is pretty laid back in his captaining style, Cammo as a past-captain is happy to offer advice, but otherwise lets most things slide without intervening. Phenomenal is generally a pretty likable guy and is always up for a joke. Pie 4 Life and WFL are the experienced heads and are a great resource for the less experienced members of the leadership group. Again, both are pretty chill and good for a laugh.

M411: From an individual standpoint, you’re currently leading the comp in hitouts, as well as fifth overall for DT points (883) and seventh for disposals (219). You’re truly having a great year. Is it your best yet?

BS: I would argue it's my first year that I haven't been terrible.

M411: Taking that to a micro level, what’s the best day you’ve had on the Qooty field?

BS: I feel like the last game (Rd10 versus the Roys) was pretty close, dominating hit outs, 29 disposals and a goal. I always think I'd rather have everyone in the team posting DT scores in the 70-90 range rather than me posting >110 while the rest of the team was sub 60. It's a team game after all.

M411: With your year going so well individually, which would be more important to you: a few individual accolades (a Mobbs and All-SFA recognition) or a team premiership?

BS:

M411: You recruited some big names in the offseason in PhenomenalV1 (Bombers) and mike123 (Roys), how do you think they’ve settled in; and who (if you’re able to say) is on the radar for S26?

BS: Both those two are very important for the team structures off- and on-field. I daresay we would have been in a lot of trouble had we not signed both of them. We're keeping our minds open for potential recruits for s26 and have been in contact with a couple of prospects that we're particularly keen on. They know who they are. Really, our recruitment philosophy is "who would we like to hang out with more?".

From our point of view, the more important way to recruit is to be a genuinely pleasant team to be around, that is by far and away the best way to have people want to play for you. I know we get a lot of schtick for being "vanilla" but really, who wants to deal with antagonism 24/7? I get enough drama IRL.
Are you looking to change clubs? HMU.

M411: Haha thanks for the offer, but I'm happy at the Bombers and just starting out in my SFA journey. Now, I’ve asked this to every captain so far: In your opinion, what is the most defining event in the history of the SFA?

BS: Hard to say. I've only been around for a couple of seasons, so I'll keep it to that range of time. I guess there's three major events that shaped the landscape - 1. Harolad's Bombers saga, 2. PhenomenalV1's restriction of trade saga, 3. TheCoach16's prank.

Of all of these I think the Harolad saga will be remembered most fondly.

M411: So what is your personal SFA Career Highlight?

BS: The discovery of Julia Zabolotnikova

M411: I can get behind that. Wrapping up, do you have any words of wisdom for the current crop of rookies (myself included)?

BS: Don't get sucked into the spam war or the idea that you need to be needlessly antagonistic. It's good to have soft-rivals to play off of, but don't just be a dick to everyone like certain HaroLite characters in recent times.

Thanks for the chat and all the best to the Dragons for the rest of S25.

 

[Loonerty]

Hatchy is pretty laid back in his captaining style

Laid back is one way to put it.

Shit is another, more accurate, way to put it.

 

[Hatchy1992]

Laid back is one way to put it.

Shit is another, more accurate, way to put it.

That's scarily inaccurate.

 

[I Dont Care]

I know I'm bad and I feel very, very naughtily bad

 

[Matty411]

Captain Conversations with cats2rise

With just a few stops left on my Sweet FA Captains World Tour, I decided to weather the storm and take a trip to the Snow Dome and visit cats2rise – Captain of the Mt Buller Demons. With the chains on my tires, I ventured to the Lodge and Headquarters to find the man himself.

M411: Thanks for opening the doors for me, mate. Is the weather always this crazy? Bloody blizzard out there – and it’s not even winter!

c2r: Welcome! We don't get a lot of visitors during the week, so I am happy to open the doors to the Captains Quarters.

We'd only call this a light sprinkling of snow, but I know it's not for everyone. Fancy a scotch? It warms the soul.

M411: You’re a man after my own heart! My last trip to the Snow Dome didn’t leave many pleasant memories, with the Bombers going down by 7 points in Round 5. Your mob is a game clear in the top 8 as we speak. How do you feel the team is doing so far in S25?


c2r: We've been quite up and down to be honest, and have not hit our straps. We've shown glimpses, but have not been able to put a solid two or three weeks in a row. We've won a few, and lost a few, by under 10 points which has been both thrilling and frustrating. Off the field though, we're going well. There's been a few household names that have been quieter than normal, but a few of the newer brigade to the Snow Dome who are filling the void.

M411: The last individual award of note was in S17 at the Demons and as a team – the premiership came in S18. Is this the year that the Dees add to the trophy cabinet?

c2r: I doubt it. Next question.

M411: In your view, what is the most defining event in the history of the SFA?

c2r: That's easy. The Sweet FA is all about the #fanfare. The league - and I'm not just talking about the players, but the administration, sponsors and fans - have been on the edge of their seats since Round 1 waiting for #Headless300. It didn't disappoint. It's just a shame we have to wait about 6 seasons for #Headless400.


M411: On a scale of 1-10 (10 being the highest), how much do you enjoy being the Captain of the Mt Buller Demons?

c2r: For me, it's not really about how much I enjoy it - it's about ensuring that the club is moving in the right direction and everyone is having a good time. I've helped to form BullerBet which Yakker is running very, very well. It's added another element to the team thread and everyone is getting involved. That's the only thing I really care about. Regardless of whether I am captain or not, I've always tried to do the best for the team.

M411: Further to that, how would you say that you’ve helped to foster the culture of your club?

c2r: I don't have to do a great deal. Going back 10 seasons, the club was in a poor state but we've made a real effort to ensure we have the right type of poster that helps to contribute - it's not just about one person trying to foster the right culture. For example, when Tarkyn_24 reached out wanting to join the club we didn't bat an eyelid. He's a team player. That's what we are all about.

M411: If you could poach any poster to join the Demons (with their blessing or not), who would it be and why?

c2r: It was a bit bittersweet when Elton Johns Wig let the club know he was going to leave to help out a struggling club. I'd love to have him back at the club.

M411: What’s the best day you’ve had on the Qooty field?

c2r: I don't really pay attention to my personal stats... I enjoy the banter and MBD spirit. I have not won a flag yet - I was on a Sweet FA break when we won the flag - and no doubt that will be the best day. I do get a little excitable whenever we beat the Wonders though... we have them this weekend so my best day may not be far away.

M411: What's the difference between cats2rise the poster and cats2rise the Qooty player?

c2r: I'm in control of my mediocre posting, but not in control of my mediocre Qootball ability. There's a difference, but I am ashamed of both.

M411: This rookie crop has been widely-regarded as extremely promising. The only noted Demons rookie is Proper Gander in S25, who I can’t say I’ve heard much from. How has she fit in?

c2r: She started really well and looked the part, although her wit was probably a little too highbrow for the average Qootier. Whilst she is a little AWOL at the moment, we hope to see her back soon as she's got the ability snag a few goals as well as push through the midfield.

M411: Do you have a personal SFA Career Highlight that sticks out?

c2r: On the field, not really. I kicked a few big bags last year was a bit of fun, but we fell short when it mattered. Off the field, I've won a few 'Coaches Awards' over the years which I am always pretty chuffed about.

M411: Any advice for the S25 rookie class as a whole?

c2r: If you're a good poster, come join the Dees. We're a great bunch. But seriously (although I was being serious before), just enjoy your time. It takes a while to figure out this league... Just enjoy yourself and work out where you fit. You might be a 100 post per week player, or a 5 post per week player. Both are fine. Post counts are overrated.

M411: Cheers for the chat and all the best for the rest of S25.

c2r: Thanks mate. Fancy a second scotch?

 

[Elton Johns Wig]

It's been an enjoyable thread Matty411, nice one.

 

[TRUMAN#1]

Yeah once again great stuff Matty411 .

I see your saving the SFA's best captain to last in haydo.

 

[Yakker]

Nice one lads

 

[Matty411]

Yeah once again great stuff Matty411 .

I see your saving the SFA's best captain to last in haydo.

I've already been to the Colosseum but haydo and I didn't get to finish our conversation. I'm hoping I can have the responses together and ready to publish this week.

 

[TRUMAN#1]

I've already been to the Colosseum but haydo and I didn't get to finish our conversation. I'm hoping I can have the responses together and ready to publish this week.

It may be hard to get past his security detail at the monent to get his responses.

Hes currently watching his back from any Disgruntled Demons players or their fans. Hes enemy number 1 at the moment for the Demons. They just don't let go when they get a grudge.

 

[haydo]

I've already been to the Colosseum but haydo and I didn't get to finish our conversation. I'm hoping I can have the responses together and ready to publish this week.

My time is limited being the captain of the greatest team in the league. Podcasts and kicking the Demons ass yesterday takes some valuable time away. Might have to organize another sit down, we're only playing the Swamprats this week.

 

[Matty411]

My time is limited being the captain of the greatest team in the league. Podcasts and kicking the Demons ass yesterday takes some valuable time away. Might have to organize another sit down, we're only playing the Swamprats this week.

Check your inbox, oh busy one! Reckon yours may be one of the better ones. Plus, just two more chats to publish and I've got the whole set #faireffort

 

[TRUMAN#1]

Check your inbox, oh busy one! Reckon yours may be one of the better ones. Plus, just two more chats to publish and I've got the whole set #faireffort

You should do Ruck men next.

 

[Agent93]

You might be a 100 post per week player, or a 5 post per week player. Both are fine. Post counts are overrated.

Underrated statement.

 

[cats2rise]

Underrated statement.

Underrated statement coming from an overrated player IMO.

 

[Agent93]

Underrated statement coming from an overrated player IMO.

Who's over-rating you? You do OK c2r (for a Geelong supporter).

 

[Matty411]

Captain Conversations with haydo

As I sit here, drafting the questions for what should have been my final Captains chat in S25 (but still awaiting one more cap to return my call) – I’m feeling accomplished and grateful for the opportunity to chat with so many posters from around the league. But I’m not done yet, and want to finish on a high. So I dared to venture to the Colosseum to wade through security and find the head of the table – haydo

M411: You might need to have a chat with your security, mate. They breached a few personal boundaries on my way in. Actually on second thought… that may have just been U2tigers. In any case, cheers for the invite (though I did invite myself).

haydo: No worries mate, yeah don't pay any attention to U2tigers, he is still very skiddish about being here so he may have seemed a little over excited but really, he's chomping at the bit on the inside. Welcome to the Colosseum, do you feel in awe?


M411: Look, I won’t lie – it’s certainly a step up from Abdu in a lot of ways. But I still prefer it, the dungeons included – it’s just home. Anyway, the Wonders are flying again in S25 – sitting pretty toward the top of the table. What do you credit the team’s success to so far?

haydo: Yeah we're having a great season on and off the field in what's our 25th season anniversary. It's a special year for this club and I think the players are embracing that which is allowing us to take our greatness to our on-field success. When you've got a great bunch of rookie posters, a very active and solid core group of posters and veteran posters that have returned to their best (posting wise) everything just swings by smoothly.


M411: You’ve got a few big personalities at the club. What captaincy style would you say you employ and is it easy to keep everybody in line?

haydo: It's pretty easy to keep people in line. That's the beauty of playing at FF; I can keep my eye on the players up the field and make sure they're on the field and not at the pub. My leadership qualities are hopefully something the players like. I try and keep in constant contact with most players whether that's in the match threads or through PM. I'm an open captain who tries his hardest to keep his squad happy. Feel like I've done my job in that regard over the past 2-3 seasons.


M411: Is the captaincy something that you’d be happy to hand over or are you planning to lead for seasons to come?

haydo: It's been really tough for me the past 12 months. And if anyone listened to the podcast earlier in the week you would have heard me mention that I have been looking to hand over the captaincy however we just never had anyone that would have taken the responsibility and continued my good work bringing this club back to a powerhouse. I've targeted and singled out a few posters over the past season to take over from me very soon however circumstances happened which has led me to continue as captain for another season or two. I'm a firm believer that 3 seasons is enough to be a captain. Any longer and things become stale. We always need fresh faces and ideas in the roles at the top.


M411: As the man in charge so far, what culture would you say that you’ve helped to create at the Wonders?

haydo: #nodickeads is pretty self-explanatory I would have thought? That's our culture, that's our motto. We're the best team in the history of the league.


M411: Looking at the big picture, what – in your opinion – has been the most defining event in the history of the SFA?

haydo: Everyone loves a team to hate don’t they? We see it in the AFL with everyone hating Hawthorn between the years 2011-2015. Everyone only hated them because they were the best and most successful at the time. The most defining moment is that the Wonders are the Hawthorn of the SFA. We're the most successful club, therefore everyone hates us because they want to be us. Everyone strives for the success the Wonders have had over our 25 seasons in the league.


M411: Don’t get me wrong – happy for the Wonders to take that tag off our hands, but don’t forget which side is in the middle of a 3peat. Now, do you have a personal SFA Career Highlight that sticks out?

haydo: Winning the premiership in S21 was pretty special. Only my 2nd season in the league and dominating that day was pretty fun. But I think what even tops that is the fact that I won the B&F in a premiership winning season. I mean, that's something truly special. I had a great year that year.


M411: What’s the best day you’ve had on the Qooty field?

haydo: Best day on the Qooty field? I'd say the same game. Not exactly sure what I had (because I'm on the phone) but believe it was 15+ hitouts, 30+ disposals and like 3 goals or something? The big time didn't faze me.


M411: I’m not sure how much you had to do with the recruitment of the S25 Wonders’ rookie class, but well done – it seems like you’ve got two gems there in SarahSmiles and U2tigers. What impact do you think they’ve had on the club?

haydo: To be honest, I had nothing to do with U2 coming to the club. @Elton John's Wig convinced U2 to join the league and join the Wonders and I'm glad he did. U2 has been sensational for us this season and I guarantee he'll win the EKA. At the time of this conversation (round 12) he's our highest poster with over 1100 for the season. He's been playing ruck all season and sits high up in our B&F count.
Sarah I had a little more to do with. I actually recruited him to the league after many didn't give him the chance. He's been a very solid contributor this season and will only get better as we roll along.


M411: Any advice for the rest S25 rookie class as a whole?

haydo: Not too much to add to the rookie class. They're all doing a fantastic job. We'll see plenty of them in a captaincy role in the very near future.


M411: Cheers for the chat and all the best to the Wonders in the run home.

haydo: Cheers friend, I'll get u2tigers to escort you out.

M411: Please, no.

 

[Restricted Free Agent]

haydo mate you sent me the PM...

 

[HaroLad]

M411: Haha thanks for the offer, but I'm happy at the Bombers and just starting out in my SFA journey. Now, I’ve asked this to every captain so far: In your opinion, what is the most defining event in the history of the SFA?

BS: Hard to say. I've only been around for a couple of seasons, so I'll keep it to that range of time. I guess there's three major events that shaped the landscape - 1. Harolad's Bombers saga, 2. PhenomenalV1's restriction of trade saga, 3. TheCoach16's prank.

yeah, im thinking based