I've been keeping an very informal, mental, not-at-all-scientific count of articles about afl clubs over the off season. Some clubs, such as Carlton of late, have clearly had their communications departments working over time, feeding the chooks with a view to generating excitement in the supporter base.
Hawthorn don't really do this, and haven't for a good many years.
To me, it reflects a completely settled club. And everyone who works at the club knows that it's all about getting the next flag, especially at this moment where the quality of the football speaks louder and clearer than any press release or player interview after training ever could. Bit of the old "never complain, never explain".
I sense a bit of Clarko's influence here because, bloody hell, that canny bastard never gives anything away. In fact, the only time I've ever felt he's being honest and open is when he's calling some journalist a f**kwit.
So Kochie can cry to the heavens, and regale us all with tales of how fit and fabulous his side is. He can spread his stories of how the headmaster put a smiley sticker on his textbook. I'm happy with that because I know that down at Waverley, everyone will have their heads down working on bringing home the chocolates in 2015.
Except for the media department, who probably only come in for half a day Monday.