annual review 2009 annual review 2009

2 annual review 2009 AFL Victoria Strategic Plan...... 4

Chairman’s Report...... 7-9

Board of Directors...... 10

Advisory Board...... 11

CEO’s Report...... 12-15

VFL Report...... 16-21

TAC Cup Report...... 22-25

Victorian Competition Graduates to the AFL ...... 27

Umpiring Report...... 28-29

Administration and Regions...... 30-35

Financial Summary...... 36-37

Marketing Report...... 38-39

AFL Victoria Development...... 40-57

Development...... 40-44

Community Football ...... 44

Multicultural Football...... 45-46

Coach Education...... 47-48

AFL Recreational Football...... 48

Umpire Development ...... 49-50

NAB AFL ...... 50-51

Schools...... 52-53

AFL Kickstart Indigenous Program...... 54

AFL Player Appearances...... 54-55

Female Football...... 55-57

Resources Available at AFL Victoria...... 58-59

Community Football Results...... 60-61

AFL Victoria People...... 62

Structure of Australian Football...... 63

COVER: Reminders of the devastating 2009 Victorian bushfires were everywhere as the CFA and Boolarra Football Club (Mid Gippsland Football League) came together to mark the start of the VCFL season. Photo: courtesy of the Herald Sun

INSIDE: A toddler enjoys a day at the footy as Northern takes on at the 2009 Youth Girls Championships. Photo: William Hung

annual review 2009 3 AFL VICTORIA STRATEGIC PLAN

OBJECTIVES 1. Participation To grow participation through quality pathways connecting all segments from AFL Auskick to open-age football 2. Community To support members, motivate and nurture volunteers and promote quality football environments 3. Talent and Second Tier To deliver a talented player pathway that attracts uring 2009 the existing pp Be prepared to go the extra mile and develops the best strategic plan was pp Persevere when faced with participants and enhances Dreviewed and updated setbacks the TAC Cup and VFL with the 2010–2012 Strategic pp Promote improved competitions Plan adopted by the new environmental sustainability 4. Facilities and Environment AFL Victoria Board. performance at all levels of To provide and maintain football and community essential facilities and OUR VISION promote responsible To be the best state-based sporting PROGRESSIVE environment sustainability organisation in . pp Strive for constant improvement awareness through football pp Respect the great history of 5. Engagement OUR MISSION our game and its role in the To utilise Australian Football To sustain and grow Australian community but challenge the as a vehicle to promote Football as the most played, status quo healthy lifestyles, cultural watched and attended sport pp Find new and creative ideas to diversity, education, across Victoria for the benefit innovate employment, safe and and enjoyment of participants, pp Focus on the future inclusive environments stakeholders and supporters, while pp Embrace change and new ideas through communities making a meaningful contribution pp Create football environments 6. Fans to the health and wellbeing of all that deliver safe, enjoyable and To build relationships with the communities throughout Victoria. rewarding experiences community to develop fans of pp Contribute to the health and the game OUR VALUES wellbeing of communities 7. Governance and Management ACCOUNTABILITY To implement quality pp Focus on delivering or exceeding RESPECTFUL governance, management performance objectives pp Embrace and respect diversity and financial models to pp Responsible for our actions and and inclusion – understand optimise AFL Victoria’s results and do what we say we will and value the difference in assets and attract and retain pp Act with integrity – deal with all every person talented people people honestly, ethically and pp Acknowledge the efforts of others transparently pp Listen actively and consider pp No surprises other viewpoints pp Act with humility and modesty pp Make decisions in a timely pp Help team or other departments pp Work collaboratively with and manner even when under tight or stakeholders in getting between each other, members, deadlines and pressure work done constituents and stakeholders

4 afl victoria annual review 2009 RIGHT: looks to get off a handball for Vic Country in the 2009 NAB AFL Under-18 Championships. Martin’s excellent form during the carnival was rewarded with selection in the All-Australian under-18 team, and he was later taken by Richmond with pick No. 3 in the AFL National .

Opposite: Spectators enjoy a day at the VFL.

afl victoria annual review 2009 5 The Yarra Junior Football League (teal, black and white jumpers) took on the Eastern Football League in 2009’s Under-14 Division 1 Grand Final. structure now in place to move forward

his past year was a chairman’s to allow youngsters an additional milestone one for the report opportunity at the higher level. T governance of Victorian We witnessed an excellent Grant O’Riley football following AFL Victoria’s finals series in both competitions, Chairman annual general meeting in March culminating with increased crowd when our board was restructured figures for the VFL and TAC Cup to include AFL representatives. The game continued Grand Final double-header at This outcome has allowed AFL “to prosper in Victoria, Etihad Stadium on September 25. Victoria and the AFL to forge a which holds us in great Clearly, the standard of the VFL stronger relationship than ever again reached new heights. before, with the excitement of a stead for the future. In the TAC Cup, the wonderful genuinely shared vision. ” work by our region managers The 2009 AGM provided a and high performance managers restructured board that has a again meant Victoria contributed clear focus of working closely respects to past board member a very strong share of the overall with members and the AFL to Peter Stedwell, who passed away player pool at the 2009 national, shape the future of football in early in the year. The former player, pre-season and rookie drafts. Victoria together. As a result of the coach and club president retired I also take this opportunity to governance change, we saw four as a director in April 2008, and our acknowledge the departure of directors leave our fold, namely thoughts go out to his family. region manager Wayne Oswald John Hyett, Tony Pinwill, Jim The game of Australian Football from the Watterston and our chairman of continued to prosper throughout after almost two decades of fine recent times Bob Tregear. 2009, which holds us in great service. Incredibly, Wayne had been I thank each and every one of stead for the future. The VFL said at the Dragons since the TAC Cup’s these fine servants for their efforts, goodbye to the Devils, inception back in 1992, and we wish particularly the long-serving with Tasmania committing to its him well in his future endeavours. Bob Tregear who held the reins in new 10-club league. The 2009 season also saw the some very challenging times. The VFL has never been fledgling GoldC oast franchise take I also take the opportunity to healthier in terms of the quality of part in the TAC Cup competition as welcome our new directors David both the competition and players part of its scheduled progression Matthews, Andrew Dillon, Nick involved, along with the increasing to the AFL for 2011, providing a Bourke, Ray Gunston and Stephen numbers of TAC Cup players who wonderful learning curve for our Jones, who bring wonderful are making the transition into our young Victorian players, who were football and business experience to state league. The relationships able to experience the intricacies AFL Victoria. between VFL and TAC Cup clubs of travelling and playing interstate. On a sadder note, all at AFL were further strengthened with the In season 2010, the Gold Coast Victoria would like to pay their introduction of the 23rd player rule will move into the VFL, and we will

afl victoria annual review 2009 7 also witness the introduction of Greater Western into the Mansfield’s Jamie Sheahan (left) tries to evade TAC Cup in preparation for its AFL Wodonga’s Brett Doswell debut within a couple of years. in 2009’s interleague clash between the Goulburn Valley Within our community football and Murray football leagues. ranks we have seen continued Photo: The Weekly Times. growth and development. Following the transformation of the former Diamond Valley Football League into the Northern Football League, the competition has been prospering under its new banner and continues to grow in both status and quality. One of the key people involved in the league’s restructure was Frank Rosbrook, who worked closely with AFL Victoria to put this important football region back on the map, serving as the NFL’s inaugural chairman. Sadly, Frank passed away in September 2009; he will be deeply missed by all associated with the competition and football in Victoria. The evolution of community football continues, with the relationship between the Southern Football League and the Moorabbin Saints Junior Football League reaching new heights as they shared support mechanisms and processes. This is a prime working example of how two large community football bodies can work together for the betterment of the game. AFL Victoria Community Football Manager Peter McDougall and his support team must also be commended for their work transforming the Dandenong and District Junior Football League, one of the largest junior competitions in Victoria. Respect Matters, an initiative to to educate and inform Victorians Operating in the booming prevent violence against women, about the CFA and its operations. south-east growth corridor, and more than ever the Victorian Over the past 12 months the the restructured DDJFL could football community came to the enhancement and development now become a best-practice fore when it went into overdrive to of football facilities in Victoria model followed by other league support the bushfire relief effort. has received huge support from administrations. This support was driven through the AFL and both state and local Right across the state, from the efforts of the VCFL, VAFA, government. Auskick through to senior level, EFL, NFL and many other leagues. It has been a wonderful we continue to oversee strong In a unique support initiative, AFL experience for AFL Victoria to work growth in overall participation Victoria appointed the CFA as the alongside these stakeholders to numbers. We continue to provide VFL’s community partner, enabling establish new or enhanced facilities a range of new community the CFA to use the VFL’s and AFL across the VFL, TAC Cup and programs such as Fair Game: Victoria’s communication channels community regions.

8 afl victoria annual review 2009 Victorian youngsters love football more than ever judging by how closely this young Hawks fan (right) is nursing his Sherrin.

In regard to these improved members and volunteers, the 18th year of our partnership facilities AFL Victoria would like to enhancing our talent pathways and with the TAC, whose support has thank the AFL’s Ken Gannon for the VFL competition, and assisting enabled AFL Victoria to manage fine job he has done in facilitating, members to develop quality the nation’s premier under-age coordinating and working alongside governance, management and competition. We are particularly all stakeholders. financial models for the future. pleased the TAC has agreed to AFL Victoria also extends There is much to achieve in the renew their partnership into 2010. an enormous thank you to the coming years. I also acknowledge the support honourable Minister for Sport, Mr We can truly approach the next of our other major partners in 2009 James Merlino, who has shown an few years in a positive manner and including the MCC Foundation, unflinching commitment to our for the first time in many years Ford, Go for your life, ConnectEast, great game in Victoria. We are we genuinely have ‘vision without the Department of Justice and pleased to say the focus on facility limitation’. Department of Planning and development will continue into 2010 It is important to acknowledge Community Development. and beyond. AFL Victoria’s partners – without Finally, I would like to thank CEO Without doubt the outlook for their support Victorian football , his executive team Australian Football is extremely would not have been able to achieve and all AFL Victoria Staff for their bright. We truly aspire to be the success and growth it has. strong performance during 2009. the best state-based sporting For 20 years VicHealth has been The AFL Victoria board is organisation in Australia and working hand in hand with AFL excited and positive about what have a sharp focus on continually Victoria to strengthen community lies ahead, and with the excellent improving in the years ahead. football. Together we have been structure already in place there We have a range of key focus partners in many ground-breaking are few barriers to growing the areas for 2010 and beyond, initiatives, including the critically game in Victoria. including working with our member important Fair Game: Respect We look forward to working with leagues to grow participation, Matters program. All of these you to sustain and grow Australian promoting healthy lifestyles, initiatives have helped improve Football as the most played, cultural diversity and development community club environments. watched and attended sport in of education programs, supporting The 2009 season also marked Australia. See you in 2010.

afl victoria annual review 2009 9 afl victoria board of directors

Grant O’Riley (Chairman) David Doherty OAM Founder and managing director of one Consulting professional and past national of Australia’s leading financial planning chairman of the Logistics Association organisations, with more than 25 years’ of Australia. A past president of the experience in the finance sector. Played Victorian Metropolitan Football League, for two years in the VFL and more than David is the chairman of AFL Victoria’s 10 in the VFA, winning two flags and Development Advisory Board. regular state representation.

Peter Schwab (CEO) Stephen Jones CEO of AFL Victoria, Peter holds a Stephen is a partner in the public Bachelor of Education (Physical Education accounting firm ATM Consultants and and English). A three-time premiership has been involved in community player with Hawthorn, where he was later football for many years including senior coach. Former chairman of the five years as chairman of the Eastern AFL’s Match Review Panel. Football League.

Geoff Almond John Jordan SC Retired as national manager of delivery A senior barrister, John was a 300-game equipment and services systems at player in amateur and country football, Australia Post. Geoff has extensive a former VAFA A grade senior coach experience as a junior football (1980), and has extensive experience as administrator, sitting on junior club and a local football administrator. league boards for more than 20 years.

Nicholas Bourke Ray Gunston A former president of the VAFA, Nick Ray has spent more than 30 years has been involved in football as a player associated with football on and off the and coach in the VAFA since 1995. Nick field. A former Brunswick VFL player, he joined the VAFA Board in 2002, was also has been involved in Auskick, junior president in 2007 and is the current football, coaching and administration. chairman of the Australian Amateur A previous board member at Essendon, Football Council (AAFC). Nick is Ray is currently the chief financial officer managing director of Bourke Property of the Tatts Group. which is involved in the marketing and sale of development properties.

David Matthews Andrew Dillon David was the Football League general manager from 1993-96 before Andrew joined the AFL in 2000 as being appointed the VCFL operations legal counsel and was appointed manager in 1997. Joined the AFL in 1998 general manager – legal and business and was AFL Auskick and participation affairs in 2004. Has long been involved manager for five years before being with Victorian club football, having appointed general manager game played 290 games in the VAFA. development in 2004.

10 afl victoria annual review 2009 afl victoria advisory board

Brad Ostemeyer General Manager Tourism Investment, David Doherty OAM Tourism Victoria Director, AFL Victoria Executive with the State Government, See page 10 for profile. with specialist expertise in attracting and facilitating investment. Involved in community football for more than 25 years as a player and administrator at club level. Also previously headed up the Community Football Department at AFL Victoria.

Peter Schwab (CEO) Geoff Almond CEO AFL Victoria Director, AFL Victoria See page 10 for profile. See page 10 for profile.

Diana Taylor John Doherty Corporate Lawyer, Senior Magistrate Aviva Australia Limited Victorian Magistrate for 17 years, Corporate lawyer and company secretary including six in charge of the with a strong record and extensive western suburbs, while now based at experience in community football. Broadmeadows. Solid commitment to Currently serving as the president of the development of football particularly the Western Region Football League, among junior clubs. Management Diana is a VFL Tribunal member and background in courts and harness racing. has initiated a foundation to develop women’s participation in football in ’s western suburbs.

Ian Hamm Derek Humphery-Smith Executive Director, Partner, Lander & Rogers Aboriginal Affairs Victoria Head of Workplace Relations and Safety Ian is a Yorta Yorta man who has with a national and international client been actively involved in the Victorian base. Strong background in sports law Indigenous community in a personal and and currently acts for a number of AFL professional capacity for many years. Ian clubs. Former AFL field umpire and is also a former president of the Western current media commentator with the Region Football League. Herald Sun.

afl victoria annual review 2009 11 game comes to the fore in a crisis

he start of 2009 in Victoria competitions is very pleasing will be remembered for and augers well for the future T the horrific consequences ceo’s report of female football. of the Black Saturday bushfires peter schwab Yet again, football’s ability to that devastated many of our CEO attract volunteers was critical communities and drew a national to the game’s success and its response, reflecting the depth of our The football industry, continued growth. As an industry community spirit and compassion as an integral part one of our biggest challenges is to right across the country. of our communities, continue supporting our volunteers The football industry, as an by making their task as easy as integral part of our communities, played its part to assist possible in an ever more regulated played its part to assist those who those who had suffered environment. had suffered from the bushfires. from the bushfires. In 2009, we also saw the While nothing could ever make formation of 97 new football teams, amends for the loss of life, football the third highest yearly growth people did their best to raise funds ever. Numbers were also good in and spirits and, in some cases, keep Football in Victoria witnessed coaching, with more than 3000 football clubs alive. another season where we participants undertaking Level 1 The generosity of the AFL, maintained our position as the coaching accreditation courses and VCFL, Victorian leagues and clubs premier team sport due to the our AFCA membership reaching – and even leagues and clubs popularity of the game in all almost 6400. from interstate – showed just how participation segments. Once Despite occasional incidents special our game and the people more we increased our overall of poor spectator behaviour at in it are, and how football can play participation levels from 2008 to matches, the majority of people an invaluable role uniting and 236,271 active players in 2009. conducted themselves in a supporting communities. It was pleasing to see Auskick manner that allowed players, While AFL Victoria was not in numbers grow, proving this coaches, administrators, officials, a position to provide the funding introductory program continues to support staff and spectators to we would have liked, we did deliver the best value-for-money enjoy their football experience. It provide the CFA with community sport. The program relies heavily is important to remember that the partner status, utilising our football on the volunteer involvement of No. 1 reason children play sport is community communication parents who continue to underpin for fun, and once this enjoyment is channels, and the VFL as the its success. removed, they unfortunately flagship vehicle, to assist the CFA Other segments where growth fall away. in informing and educating the occurred were in the female and Our talent program, most Victorian public as to the wide community club areas. The notably through TAC Cup clubs range of activities it is involved in. ongoing growth of youth girls’ and their associated regions,

12 afl victoria annual review 2009 AFL Victoria and the CFA formed a community partnership in 2009 that had great benefits for both organisations. Above, CFA chief officer Russell Rees speaks at the partnership launch, as (L-R) AFL Victoria CEO Peter Schwab, Collingwood VFL coach , Geelong VFL captain , Sandringham spearhead Nicholas Sautner, Premier John Brumby and Minister for Police and Emergency Services Bob Cameron look on.

continues to achieve its objectives national under-16 and under-18 junior football, our aim is to make of producing high numbers of level, Victoria has won 16. This sure players come back to the AFL draftees as well as quality underlines our status as the No. 1 game each season. footballers who either go onto the state for producing AFL talent. The VFL enjoyed another VFL or return to play community We know that 95 per cent of fine season, with the standard football better for the experience. all graduates from the TAC Cup continuing to improve. There is no In the 2009 NAB AFL Draft, will play football after exiting the doubt the presence of AFL-listed Victoria supplied 51 per cent of the program. This is a statistic every bit players assists in achieving this, but total number of players selected. Of as pleasing as the total number of we are also pleased with the quality the past 20 titles decided at players drafted. As with any level of of non-AFL-listed players and we

afl victoria annual review 2009 13 CFA mascot Captain Koala plays kick-to-kick with a young fan during half-time of the CFA community match at Morwell between the North Roosters and Casey Scorpions.

14 afl victoria annual review 2009 feel certain the VFL will become an responsible for growth areas game’s future in this state even bigger recruiting ground for are planning. We cannot grow would be severely impacted. the AFL with the introduction of the participation if we do not have On a personal note, I would like two new AFL franchises. anywhere to play. to thank all other stakeholders Speaking of which, the Gold AFL Victoria has an obligation in football for their support and Coast enjoyed a highly successful to provide development programs commitment to our game – season in the TAC Cup, and will across all sectors, to support our especially our leagues and clubs now move onto the VFL in 2010. community leagues, their clubs, for the important role they play in Meanwhile, we also welcome the and their networks of volunteers, communities. Greater West Sydney franchise into to promote football in our school The Board of AFL Victoria, which the TAC Cup in 2010. Both clubs are networks, to promote and grow underwent substantial changes great additions to the respective umpiring numbers, to administer at the start of 2009, has done an competitions as they prepare the talent pathway via the TAC Cup excellent job on behalf of everyone themselves for the AFL. regions and the VFL, to promote involved in our game. Congratulations must be the game to marginalised groups Grant O’Riley was elected extended to all of our TAC Cup within our community, to build as chairman and with him five and VFL clubs, particularly the an interest in our game with new new directors joined the board; respective premiers Calder arrivals, and to represent our Nick Bourke, Stephen Jones, Cannons and North Ballarat. game’s best interests to all levels Ray Gunston, the AFL’s general The Roosters have now won of government. manager of game development back-to-back premierships David Matthews, and Andrew in the VFL. The VFL will become Dillon, the AFL’s general manager As far as challenges go, football an even bigger of legal and business affairs. faces a significant hurdle to retain Their addition to the board’s its capacity to build, maintain and recruiting ground existing members – David Doherty, retain playing fields and facilities.I t for the AFL with the Geoff Almond and John Jordan – is never easy, but cooperation with introduction of the two combined with Grant’s leadership, all levels of government will be even new AFL franchises. has seen a renewed enthusiasm for more vital to ensuring our leagues the opportunities possible for our and clubs can continue to thrive. game in Victoria. While initiatives in regards to I would also like to mention the drought-proofing grounds and Another challenge is to secure board members who left in 2009: water harvesting have allowed enough funding to undertake Tony Pinwill, Jim Watterston, improvements to be made, the all our strategic objectives, and John Hyett and Bob Tregear. In drought will continue to be one of to this end we are grateful to particular, I’d like to pay tribute to our biggest challenges. Synthetic receive funding from the AFL – the great service and leadership surfaces could be a solution into by far the biggest financial Bob has given to AFL Victoria and the future, but this remains a very supporter of football in Victoria – to football in this state. expensive proposition at present. as well as the State Government To the executive team of Mick Compounding the issue of via the Department of Justice Daniher, Stephen Smith, Peter Harley ground maintenance is the fact (Problem Gambling), Department and John Hook, thank you for your the game’s growth means of Health (Go for your life) and commitment to the organisation and increased ground usage through the Department of Planning and football, as well as the leadership you more training sessions and games, Community Development, Sport provide to our staff. thus hindering the recovery of and Recreation Victoria, VicHealth, In finishing, I would like to playing surfaces at certain venues, the TAC, the MCC via their recognise all of our umpires, but which can deteriorate under Foundation, Ford Australia and particularly those entrusted with constant use. ConnectEast. the responsibility of supporting This is not just our problem as a VicHealth continues to recruitment, retention and training sport, but one also for other codes invest significant funds into of those who wish to participate in that share venues, and the councils our community football support our game as officials. who are responsible for them. programs, the TAC invests So to Neville Nash, AFL Victoria’s Only through true partnerships heavily into our talent pathway Umpire Development Manger can we solve the issue of ground in the TAC Cup competition, and Kevin Mitchell, State Director of maintenance. the MCC provides significant Umpiring, Angela Lindsay and to all Another issue is football’s ability assistance with our school umpiring managers, coaches and to secure access to enough open programs. Without these associations across all our leagues, space to build ovals and facilities partnerships, our capacity to thank you for your contribution to when developers and the councils nurture, grow and secure the the game.

afl victoria annual review 2009 15 Innovation and opportunity the keys to success

he Victorian Football Nahas (Port Melbourne) to the AFL League is a unique and VFL report ranks in 2009 proved a highlight T ever evolving competition, JOHN HOOK for everybody involved in our and in 2009, despite numerous competition. Picken, rookie-listed Football Operations challenges, again promoted by the , played Manager high-quality football, innovation 23 games – including three finals and a pathway to the AFL. – and quelled some of the game’s The goal is to continue to meet The stories of Liam biggest names in his run-with role. the demands of all stakeholders, “Picken and , meanwhile, chalked up 19 protect our interests and be a Nahas underscore the AFL matches as a Richmond rookie, pioneer of new ideas. booting 21 goals as a small forward For the second straight year, opportunities on offer and showcasing the skills honed Etihad Stadium played host to the in the VFL. over several seasons in the VFL. VFL Grand Final on the eve of the ” The stories of Picken and Nahas AFL Grand Final, with the 2009 underscore the opportunities and TAC Cup decider once more the pathway on offer through our state- curtain-raiser. The advantage of the Medal for best on ground in the based competition, illustrating the closed roof was clearly highlighted, Grand Final, this year Roosters importance of preserving crucial as North Ballarat and the Northern teammate aspects of its structure. Despite Bullants were able to escape the claimed the award with a dominant the fact one of our roles is to adverse Melbourne weather and display in the ruck. The ABC again fieldAFL -listed players through provide a superb contest in ideal provided fantastic coverage of the the various VFL/AFL alignments, playing conditions. VFL’s showpiece, airing the game we must not be seen as an AFL Congratulations must go to the live on its high definition channel, reserves or seconds league. It is Roosters for chalking up back-to- along with a delayed telecast from understandable AFL clubs are keen back premierships, this time with a 10pm on ABC1. for their listed footballers to be 23-point triumph over the gallant I would like to take this playing senior VFL football, but this Bullants. This stands as a momentous opportunity to thank the ABC for should only ever happen on merit. achievement at any level of football, its professionalism and continued Hawthorn skipper Sam Mitchell let alone the best state-based league support of the VFL throughout is a perfect example of a TAC Cup in the country, and coach Gerard 2009. With the re-signing of the player initially overlooked at the FitzGerald, president Peter Wilson, broadcast agreement last year, the draft; he started out in the VFL CEO Mark Patterson and football network will telecast the Saturday reserves at Box Hill, progressed manager Marg Richards should be match of the day live until 2011, and to senior football through strong commended. hopefully beyond. form, won a J.J. Liston Trophy, then After Josh Smith’s five goals The rise of former VFL stars Liam earned his AFL chance, going on to earned him the 2008 Norm Goss Picken (Williamstown) and Robin captain the Hawks to a premiership.

16 afl victoria annual review 2009 North Ballarat players and coach Gerard FitzGerald (top, second from left) celebrate the Roosters’ 2009 Grand Final win, their second consecutive premiership.

afl victoria annual review 2009 17 It would be a tragedy if the next Sam Mitchell is unable to follow the same pathway due to diminished opportunities, and any future increase in AFL list sizes would severely restrict this pathway. On a more positive note, the pending introduction of the Gold Coast and Greater Western Sydney clubs to the AFL in 2011 and 2012 respectively is an exciting prospect for VFL players, with the increased demand for playing talent meaning recruiters’ eyes will be fixed firmly on our Victorian clubs. Already we have seen eight VFL players selected in the 2009 AFL Rookie Draft, with six of those players listed with an AFL club for the first time, a number representing more than 10 per cent of the 59 first-time draftees. It was extremely pleasing the VFL competition contributed so well to the rookie draft. The AFL’s new mature-age rookie rule, allowing each club to two players aged 23 or older, also helped pave the way for this. The rule enabled Geelong’s James Podsiadly to be rookie- listed at 28 years of age, along with Frankston’s (24) and Williamstown’s Patrick Rose (23), which is a great selling point for the VFL and its clubs. Further, the VFL competition and its status as an elite talent pathway, especially for TAC Cup players, is reinforced by the fact that – excluding junior players – the VFL provided more players than both the WAFL (six) and the SANFL (five) at this year’s rookie draft. Additionally, at the NAB AFL Draft two VFL players were selected – Box Hill’s (Western Bulldogs) and Sandringham’s Will Johnson (St Kilda) – and two former players were upgraded from their clubs’ rookie lists – Picken and Nahas. These results serve as a timely reminder to Melbourne-based clubs that the delicate balance between developing AFL-listed players in VFL STARS OF 2009: (top to bottom) Frosty Miller medallist Nicholas Sautner (Sandringham, the VFL competition and creating a right) with Jim ‘Frosty’ Miller; Fothergill-Round medallist (Werribee Tigers, pathway for Victorian players has to right) with ; A. Todd medallist Joel Cross (Box Hill Hawks, right) with 2008 winner Coburg’s Glen Carrick. be respected.

18 afl victoria annual review 2009 North Ballarat’s Myles Sewell enjoyed a stellar 2009 season, winning the VFL’s highest individual honor, the J.J. Liston Trophy.

The VFL is delighted and proud to promote a TAC Cup player or VFL coaches to develop the TAC to be welcoming the Gold Coast first-year graduate in addition to Cup talent at their disposal. into its ranks for season 2010, the 22 named in the weekly senior The past year also saw notable with the addition bringing the side. Barring stand-alone AFL changes to VFL-AFL alignments, competition back to 14 teams after entities Collingwood and Geelong, with Melbourne confirming the departure of the Tasmania all VFL clubs have alignments its commitment to the rapidly Devils at the conclusion of 2008. with TAC Cup teams, with these expanding outer-south-eastern It is a strong endorsement of partnerships and the new rule suburbs by teaming with the Casey Victoria’s talent pathway that the forming an additional pathway Scorpions. The Demons should new Queensland club chose the for late developers, converts from benefit greatly from the first-class TAC Cup and now VFL to make its other sports and players whose facility at and the transition to the top flight, and development may have been backing of an enthusiastic and hopefully the new western Sydney stalled by injury. highly supportive local council. club will follow suit. While some VFL clubs did Meanwhile, the Scorpions’ One of the most prominent not take advantage of the 23rd former partner St Kilda made initiatives introduced in the 2009 player rule in its first year, others a smooth transition to its new season was the 23rd player rule, embraced the initiative, and we will partnership with Sandringham which gave VFL clubs incentive continue to revise it and encourage at the aptly named Trevor

afl victoria annual review 2009 19 Attendees at the VFL’s 2009 life member award ceremony included (L-R, newly inducted life members unless indicated) Peter Schwab (award presenter), Martin Stillman, Peter Weightman, Ken Gannon, Justyn, Yvonne and Mark Stedwell (sons and widow of the late Peter Stedwell, who was posthumously inducted), Andrew Clifton, Grant O’Riley (award presenter) and James Podsiadly.

Barker Beach Oval. As with all awarded the A. Todd Medal as the the standard and reputation of relationships, communication, player in 2009, the competition. It was pleasing compromise and hard work remain and teammate Leigh Kitchin was to witness the completion of the the key to these alignments being voted best on ground in the Hawks’ Box Hill Hawks’ new Southern successful in the long term. Grand Final triumph, earning the Pavilion and extensive work at At this point it would be remiss Fred Hill Memorial Medal. North Ballarat’s , not to mention the efforts of our Long-time servants of the which should give impetus to stand-alone VFL clubs Frankston league were also recognised, pending redevelopment projects and Port Melbourne in an extremely with former Werribee and 2009 at Williamstown, Sandringham and difficult environment. While the Geelong skipper James Podsiadly Port Melbourne. Dolphins moved into a transitional reaching 175 VFL games and Equally crucial to the phase and were not able to replicate being awarded automatic life competition is the establishment their 2008 finals appearance, Port membership alongside Port of lasting and mutually beneficial again was a premiership contender, Melbourne stalwart David Pitt, who off-field partnerships. The compiling a 20-game winning streak reached the milestone in his final VFL’s new community-based at its TEAC Oval home on the way match this September. relationship with the CFA to a preliminary final. Coach Gary While Pitt will be officially was a major positive in a year Ayres should be congratulated for honoured at the 2010 Liston where the devastating Black his achievements, along with all Trophy count, other life Saturday bushfires highlighted 2009’s individual award winners membership recipients at this the importance of volunteer and honourees. year’s ceremony included goal organisations and football in Heading this year’s honour umpire Andrew Clifton, former our society. roll was North Ballarat midfielder AFL Victoria CEO Ken Gannon, On August 8, the Casey Myles Sewell, who took home the ex-general manager Martin Scorpions and North Ballarat J.J. Liston Trophy in a season that Stillman and former player and travelled to the fire-affected yielded his second premiership. coach Peter Weightman. regional centre of Morwell to play Sandringham spearhead Nick Sadly, Peter Stedwell – a a community game in recognition Sautner claimed the Jim ‘Frosty’ Dandenong premiership captain, of the CFA’s outstanding efforts. Miller Medal for an incredible competition advocate and long- Such initiatives that take the ninth time, surpassing the 800- time Football Victoria board VFL to new locations may be goal mark along the way, while member – passed away during replicated in future. Werribee’s Michael Barlow won the year, with his contribution In closing, I would like to the Fothergill-Round Medal as recognised with posthumous VFL thank all of the committed people the competition’s most promising life membership. – club staff, players, administrators, player under 22 with the prospect The redevelopment of VFL stakeholders and umpires – of taking his game further. venues remains a priority of this involved in making the VFL At reserves level, Joel Cross administration, as improved facilities the successful competition it from the Box Hill Hawks was will generate revenue and improve is today.

20 afl victoria annual review 2009 BENDIGO BOMBERS Queen Elizabeth Oval VFL SEASON 2009 View Street, Bendigo, 3350 Joined VFL: 1998 Premierships: 0 2009 Final Ladder P W L D B FF For Ag PC Pts 2009 coach: Adrian Hickmott bendigobombers.com North Ballarat 18 14 4 0 2 0 1649 1284 128.43 56

Williamstown 18 13 5 0 2 0 2002 1506 132.93 52 BOX HILL HAWKS Box Hill City Oval, Cnr. Middleborough and Whitehorse Roads, Box Hill, 3128 Northern Bullants 18 12 6 0 2 0 1751 1516 115.30 48 Joined VFL: 1951 Premierships: 1 2009 coach: Brendan Bolton Port Melbourne 18 12 6 0 2 0 1685 1476 114.16 48 boxhillhawks.com.au Box Hill Hawks 18 12 6 0 2 0 1654 1574 105.08 48 CASEY SCORPIONS Casey Scorpions 18 10 8 0 2 0 1693 1355 124.94 40 Casey Fields, Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne, 3977 Collingwood 18 10 8 0 2 0 1598 1476 108.27 40 Joined VFL: 1982 Premierships: 5 2009 coach: Peter German Geelong 18 9 9 0 2 0 1661 1753 94.75 36 scorpions.com.au

Werribee Tigers 18 8 10 0 2 0 1605 1664 96.45 32 COBURG TIGERS Sandringham 18 7 11 0 2 0 1660 1593 104.21 28 ABD Group Stadium, Harding Street, Coburg, 3058 Coburg Tigers 18 7 11 0 2 0 1733 1810 95.75 28 Joined VFL: 1925 Premierships: 6 2009 coach: /Craig McRae coburgtigers.com.au Frankston 18 3 15 0 2 0 1286 1930 66.63 12

Bendigo Bombers 18 0 18 0 2 0 1223 2263 54.04 0 COLLINGWOOD Lexus Centre, Cnr. Batman Avenue and Swan Street, Olympic Park, Melbourne, 3000 Joined VFL: 2000 Premierships: 0 2009 coach: Gavin Brown VFL RESULTS/AWARDS collingwoodfc.com.au SENIORS RESERVES Grand Final Grand Final FRANKSTON DOLPHINS Frankston Oval, Cnr. Young Street and North Ballarat 14.7 (91) d Box Hill Hawks 16.18 (114) d Ploughman Place, Frankston, 3199 Northern Bullants 10.8 (68) Sandringham 13.8 (86) Joined VFL: 1966 Premierships: 0 2009 coach: Norm Goss Medal Fred Hill Memorial Medal frankstonfc.com.au (Best player in Grand Final) (Best player in Grand Final) Orren Stephenson (North Ballarat) Leigh Kitchin Umpires Umpires GEELONG CATS Skilled Stadium, Field: Michael Jennings, Andrew Mitchell, Field: Matthew Leppard, Brent Pawley, LaTrobe Terrace, Geelong, 3220 Brett Ritchie Joshua Krull Joined VFL: 2000 Premierships: 2 Boundary: Michael Marantelli, Boundary: Neil Woods, Patrick Tongue, 2009 coach: Dale Amos Drew Kowalski, Graeme Bergroth Matthew Jenkinson gfc.com.au Goal: Courtney Lai, Benjamin James Goal: Michael Richardson, Peter Balding

J.J. Liston Trophy (Best and fairest) A. Todd Medal (Best and fairest) NORTH BALLARAT ROOSTERS Myles Sewell (North Ballarat) Joel Cross (Box Hill Hawks) Eureka Stadium, Creswick Road, North Ballarat, 3550 Fothergill-Round Medal Joined VFL: 1996 Premierships: 2 (Most promising young player) 2009 coach: Gerard FitzGerald Michael Barlow (Werribee Tigers) theroosters.com.au Jim ‘Frosty’ Miller Medal (Leading goalkicker at the end of the NORTHERN BULLANTS home and away season) NAB Oval, Cramer Street, Preston, 3072 Nicholas Sautner (Sandringham, 71 goals) Joined VFL: 1903 Premierships: 4 2009 coach: David Teague northernbullants.com.au

2009 VFL TEAM OF THE YEAR PORT MELBOURNE TEAC Oval, Williamstown Road, Port Melbourne, 3207 B: Stephen Brewer James Flaherty Joined VFL: 1886 Premierships: 15 Port Melbourne Bendigo Bombers Casey Scorpions 2009 coach: pmfc.com.au HB: James Wall Jarrod Dalton Steve Kenna Casey Scorpions Port Melbourne Box Hill Hawks SANDRINGHAM ZEBRAS C: Toby Pinwill David Gallagher Beach Oval, Cnr. Beach Road Port Melbourne Port Melbourne Sandringham and Hampton Street, Sandringham, 3191 Joined VFL: 1929 Premierships: 10 HF: Michael Barlow James Podsiadly 2009 coach: Andy Lovell Werribee Tigers Geelong Geelong sandringhamfc.com.au F: Patrick Rose Nicholas Sautner Matthew Little Williamstown Sandringham Williamstown WERRIBEE TIGERS Chirnside Park, Walton Street, R: Orren Stephenson Myles Sewell Werribee, 3030 North Ballarat Box Hill Hawks North Ballarat Joined VFL: 1965 Premierships: 1 2009 coach: Simon Atkins INT: Stephen Clifton Marcus Marigliani werribeefc.com.au Frankston North Ballarat Frankston

Cameron Pederson WILLIAMSTOWN SEAGULLS Box Hill Hawks Burbank Oval, Morris Street, Williamstown, 3018 COACH: Peter German Joined VFL: 1884 Premierships: 13 2009 coach: Bradley Gotch Casey Scorpions williamstown.aflvic.com.au

afl victoria annual review 2009 21 TAC CUP CELEBRATES A HAPPY 18TH

s the premier under-18 tac cup Calder now has a record five TAC football competition report Cup flags at an incredible strike rate A in Australia, it was John Hook of more than one every four years. significant that in 2009 the Football Operations Other TAC Cup standouts in TAC Cup celebrated its own Manager 2009 included Anton Woods 18th birthday by yet again from the , who providing more than half of Prior to season not only took home the coveted the national draft pool. “2009, the TAC Cup – awarded to the Of the 68 new players taken at had supplied 595 AFL competition’s best and fairest the 2009 NAB AFL Draft, 35 (or 51 player as judged by the umpires per cent) were TAC Cup graduates, players, culminating – but also the TAC Cup Coaches’ including nine of the first 17 in 42,000 games and Award. Woods joined another selections and – for the third year in 26,500 goals. former Knight and current Carlton a row – the No. 1 selection, this year ” star as a winner of from the Dandenong this unique double. Stingrays. Two former TAC Cup media increased their focus on Meanwhile, the ’ players – Geelong’s the competition in the lead-up Luke McDonald topped the TAC and Richmond’s Andrew Browne to the national, pre-season and Cup goalkicking with 63 for the – also had their names read out on rookie drafts. year, highlighting the success of draft night, having been elevated ’s appointment as the 19-year-old rule, which allows from their side’s rookie lists, while head coach of the Northern Knights clubs to field up to three over-age the competition’s 2009 graduates added even further excitement and players. The 23rd player rule also subsequently accounted for 12 professionalism to the TAC Cup, served to increase opportunities of the 59 new selections at the AFL the two-time North Melbourne for TAC Cup players, with VFL Rookie Draft. premiership coach leading his clubs able to play a promising All of which reinforces the fact new club to a finals berth.T he youngster from their TAC Cup the TAC Cup competition remains premiership eventually went to the affiliate in addition to the senior the primary launching pad for the , who defeated the side’s starting 22. game’s greats. by 14 points At representative level, the In 2009, the TAC Cup and its in a high-quality Grand Final at highlight of the year proved players were given unprecedented Etihad Stadium. to be the NAB AFL Under-16 levels of exposure with programs Congratulations must go to Championships title won by Vic initiated by TAC including Channel Cannons coach Martin Allison and Country. The side, coached by Nine’s highly successful TAC Cup Grand Final best-on-ground Jake former Collingwood champion Future Stars program on Sundays Melksham, who was rewarded by , missed the and the Herald Sun’s all-time being picked up by Essendon at opportunity to play at the MCG TAC Cup SuperTeam. All forms of No. 10 in the 2009 National Draft. on AFL Grand Final day due to

22 afl victoria annual review 2009 Calder Cannons players celebrate their 2009 Grand Final victory over the Dandenong Stingrays.

afl victoria annual review 2009 23 Anton Woods (centre, pictured with Northern Knights coach Denis Pagan, left, and TAC CEO Janet Dore) won the TAC Cup’s two highest individual honors in 2009 – the Morrish Medal and the Coaches’ Award.

inclement weather, however, put (), impact can be felt. Increasingly, aside any disappointment to record Matthew Shaw (Dandenong the competition is feeding a comprehensive victory over Stingrays) and (Calder coaching graduates into the AFL at Visy Park. Cannons) – are products of the system, with 2009 Keith Burns The win rounded out a decade TAC Cup system. The competition Award winner that saw Victorian teams claim 16 of continued to provide an influx of () landing an the 20 Division One championships exciting talent into the AFL in 2009, assistant coaching role at Port on offer at under-16 and under-18 producing 11 of the 22 nominees Adelaide and Eastern Ranges level. With Buckley departing to for the NAB AFL Rising Star award, coach Shane Watson earning take up an assistant coaching role as well as the Brownlow medallist an assistant’s position at at the Magpies, Melbourne great (Gary Ablett) and North Melbourne. will take the helm of the medallist (Paul Chapman). Over the past 18 years the under-16 Country boys in 2010. In light of the TAC Cup’s 18th TAC has played an integral role in The strength of the state’s year celebrations, AFL statistician the success of the competition. development pathway was again Col Hutchison researched the Our working relationship has demonstrated at the AIS-AFL broad impact of our elite under-age seen the partnership grow from Academy, with 15 of the 30 elite competition upon the nation’s No. strength to strength, continuously scholarship recipients hailing 1 football league, with remarkable identifying new and effective from Victoria. In addition, eight results. Prior to season 2009, the initiatives to support the TAC’s of the 12 priority 17-year-olds TAC Cup had supplied 595 AFL important road safety messages. selected by the new Gold Coast players, culminating in more than Finally, congratulations to all franchise – Trent McKenzie 42,000 games and 26,500 goals at associated with the TAC Cup (), Josh Toy an average of about 71 games and throughout the competition’s (Calder Cannons), Jack Hutchins 25 goals a player – well above the first 18 years; we look forward (Sandringham Dragons), Tom overall average. to continued excellence at all Nichols (Sandringham Dragons), However, it is not only on the levels over the next 18 years Piers Flanigan (Geelong Falcons), playing field that the TAC Cup’s and beyond.

24 afl victoria annual review 2009 TAC Cup SEASON 2009 Office Address: Golden Square Oval, MacKenzie Street, Golden Square, 3555 Joined TAC Cup: 1993 Premierships: 0 2009 Final Ladder P W L D B FF For Ag PC Pts 2009 coach: Mark Ellis bendigopioneers.aflvic.com.au Geelong Falcons 18 17 1 0 2 0 1755 1149 152.74 68

Gippsland Power 18 11 7 0 2 0 1643 1339 122.70 44 CALDER CANNONS Office Address: Moreland City Council Dandenong Stingrays 18 11 7 0 2 0 1710 1397 122.41 44 90 Bell Street, Coburg, 3058 Joined TAC Cup: 1995 Premierships: 5 Eastern Ranges 18 11 7 0 2 0 1696 1406 120.63 44 2009 coach: Martin Allison caldercannons.aflvic.com.au Gold Coast 18 10 7 1 2 0 1391 1258 110.57 42 Calder Cannons 18 10 8 0 2 0 1536 1652 92.98 40 DANDENONG STINGRAYS North Ballarat Rebels 18 9 8 1 2 0 1294 1285 100.70 38 Office Address: Shepley Oval Pultney Street, Dandenong, 3175 Northern Knights 18 9 9 0 2 0 1508 1445 104.36 36 Joined TAC Cup: 1992 Premierships: 0 2009 coach: Graeme Yeats 18 7 10 1 2 0 1340 1352 99.11 30 dandenongstingrays.aflvic.com.au Murray Bushrangers 18 7 10 1 2 0 1474 1569 93.95 30 EASTERN RANGES Western Jets 18 6 11 1 2 0 1295 1738 74.51 26 Office Address: Kilsyth Recreation Reserve Colchester Road, Kilsyth, 3137 Bendigo Pioneers 18 4 14 0 2 0 1321 1738 76.01 16 Joined TAC Cup: 1992 Premierships: 1 2009 coach: Shane Watson Sandringham Dragons 18 4 14 0 2 0 1267 1771 71.54 16 easternranges.aflvic.com.au

GEELONG FALCONS Office Address: Highton Reserve Roslyn Road, Highton, 3216 TAC CUP RESULTS/AWARDS Joined TAC Cup: 1992 Premierships: 2 2009 coach: Garry Hocking Grand Final Morrish Medal (Best and fairest) geelongfalcons.aflvic.com.au Calder Cannons 17.10 (112) d Anton Woods (Northern Knights) Dandenong Stingrays 14.14 (98) TAC CUP Coaches’ Award TAC Medal (Best Player in Grand Final) Anton Woods (Northern Knights) Office Address: Morwell Recreation Reserve (Calder Cannons) Travers Street, Morwell, 3840 Leading Goalkicker Joined TAC Cup: 1993 Premierships: 1 Umpires Luke McDonald (Eastern Ranges, 63 goals) 2009 coach: gippslandpower.aflvic.com.au Field: Tristan Burgess, Andrew Talbot, David Harris Boundary: Tim Morrison, Steven Neal, GOLD COAST Office Address: Gold Coast Stadium, David Card Nerang-Broadbeach Road, Carrara, QLD, 4211 Goal: Steven Piperno, Michael O’Donnell Joined TAC Cup: 2009 Premierships: 0 2009 coach: Guy McKenna goldcoastfc.com.au

MURRAY BUSHRANGERS Office Address: 54 Ovens Street, 2009 TAC CUP TEAM OF THE YEAR Wangaratta, 3677 Joined TAC Cup: 1993 Premierships: 2 2009 coach: Phil Bunn B: Steve McCallum Jonno Nash murraybushrangers.aflvic.com.au Calder Cannons Calder Cannons Sandringham Dragons

HB: Sean Tighe Ben Cunnington NORTH BALLARAT REBELS North Ballarat Western Jets Geelong Falcons Office Address: Eureka Stadium Creswick Road, North Ballarat, 3550 C: Johnny Rayner Dustin Martin Joined TAC Cup: 1993 Premierships: 1 Western Jets Bendigo Pioneers Dandenong Stingrays 2009 coach: Glenn Wilkins nthballaratrebels.aflvic.com.au HF: Jayden Hoegel John Butcher Oakleigh Chargers Gippsland Power Geelong Falcons NORTHERN KNIGHTS F: Luke McDonald Dylan McNeil Office Address: Blake Park Eastern Ranges Eastern Ranges Murray Bushrangers Gower Street, Preston, 3072 Joined TAC Cup: 1992 Premierships: 4 R: Tom Scully Anton Woods 2009 coach: Denis Pagan Gold Coast Dandenong Stingrays Northern Knights northernknights.aflvic.com.au INT: Allen Christensen Geelong Falcons Dandenong Stingrays Northern Knights OAKLEIGH CHARGERS Office Address: Warrawee Park Warrigal Road, Oakleigh, 3166 Joined TAC Cup: 1995 Premierships: 1 Dandenong Stingrays 2009 coach: Steve Grace oakleighchargers.aflvic.com.au COACH: Garry Hocking Geelong Falcons SANDRINGHAM DRAGONS Office Address: DC Bricker Pavillion, , Beech Street, Caulfield South, 3162 Joined TAC Cup: 1992 Premierships: 1 2009 coach: Dale Tapping sandringhamdragons.aflvic.com.au

WESTERN JETS Office Address: Level 2, 1 Mason Street, Newport, 3015 Joined TAC Cup: 1992 Premierships: 0 2009 coach: Steve Kretiuk westernjets.aflvic.com.au

afl victoria annual review 2009 25 Dandenong Stingray Tom Scully capped off an outstanding junior career when he was taken with the No. 1 pick in the 2009 NAB AFL Draft, the third consecutive year a Victorian has been given this honour.

26 afl victoria annual review 2009 victorian competition graduates to the afl

2009 NAB AFL DRAFT PERMANENT ROOKIE UPGRADES SELECTIONS PRIOR TO THE 2009 NAB AFL DRAFT Pick Player Name PREVIOUS CLUBS AFL Club no. PLAYER PREVIOUS CLUBS AFL CLUB 1 Tom Scully Dandenong Stingrays/Narre Warren Melbourne Jeremy Laidler Calder Cannons/Doutta Stars Geelong Cats 3 Dustin Martin Bendigo Pioneers/Castlemaine Richmond Williamstown (VFL)/North Ballarat Rebels Western Bulldogs 5 Ben Cunnington Geelong Falcons/Cobden North Melbourne Robin Nahas Port Melbourne (VFL)/Oakleigh Chargers Richmond 6 Gary Rohan Geelong Falcons/Cobden Andrew Browne Murray Bushrangers/Mansfield Richmond 8 John Butcher Gippsland Power/Maffra Port Adelaide 9 Andrew Moore Eastern Ranges/Yarra Valley Grammar Port Adelaide 10 Jake Melksham Calder Cannons/Oak Park Essendon 2010 NAB AFL PRE-SEASON DRAFT 11 Eastern Ranges/Yarra Valley Grammar Melbourne SELECTIONS 13 Calder Cannons/Greenvale Adelaide Pick PLAYER PREVIOUS CLUBS AFL CLUB 16 Jasper McMillan-Pittard Geelong Falcons/Torquay Port Adelaide No. 19 Benjamin Griffiths Eastern Ranges/Blackburn Richmond 2 Northern Knights/Hurstbridge Richmond 21 Ryan Bastinac Dandenong Stingrays/Rowville North Melbourne 23 Gippsland Power/Lucknow 2010 NAB AFL ROOKIE DRAFT 24 Jake Carlisle Calder Cannons/Craigieburn Essendon SELECTIONS 27 Callum Bartlett Geelong Falcons/North Geelong Pick PLAYER PREVIOUS CLUBS AFL CLUB 29 Sandringham Dragons/Mordialloc-Braeside Adelaide No. 33 Anthony Long Calder Cannons/St Mary’s Essendon 3 Sam Iles Box Hill Hawks (VFL)/Collingwood Gold Coast 34 Sandringham Dragons/Ormond Melbourne 7 Robert Hicks Calder Cannons/Doutta Stars Richmond 35 North Ballarat Rebels/Tatyoon Richmond 8 Michael Barlow Werribee (VFL)/Shepparton United Fremantle 37 Oakleigh Chargers/Scotch North Melbourne 9 Western Jets/Wyndhamvale North Melbourne 38 Sam Reid Murray Bushrangers/Wangaratta Rovers Sydney Swans 15 Northern Knights/St Kevin’s Carlton 39 Northern Knights/Ivanhoe Grammar Hawthorn 16 Mitchell Golby Gippsland Power/Kilcunda Brisbane Lions 40 Allen Christensen Geelong Falcons/Lara Geelong Cats 17 Luke Thompson Geelong Falcons/Timboon Adelaide 41 Ayden Kennedy Eastern Ranges/Wantirna South North Melbourne 18 Thomas Hunter Calder Cannons/East Keilor Collingwood 42 Gippsland Power/Allies Geelong Cats 21 Jack Weston Gippsland Power/Foster Geelong Cats 44 North Ballarat Rebels/St Patrick’s College Richmond 24 Alex Silvagni Casey Scorpions (VFL)/Old Haileybury Fremantle 45 Oakleigh Chargers/Xavier Adelaide 25 Matthew Scott Eastern Ranges/Norwood North Melbourne 49 Dandenong Stingrays/Frankston YCW Fremantle 31 Joe Dare Geelong Falcons/Colac Carlton 50 Jack Fitzpatrick Western Jets/Wyndhamvale Melbourne 32 Josh Dyson Eastern Ranges/Scoresby Brisbane Lions 53 Brayden Norris Murray Bushrangers/Alexandra North Melbourne 35 Andrew Hooper North Ballarat Rebels/Golden Point Western Bulldogs 56 North Ballarat Rebels/Daylesford Geelong Cats 37 Ben Johnson Geelong (VFL)/Geelong Falcons Geelong 57 Jordan Williams Bendigo Pioneers/Echuca Hawthorn 43 Bendigo Bombers (VFL)/Maryborough Essendon 59 Rohan Kerr Dandenong Stingrays/Parkdale Vultures Carlton 44 Levi Casboult Dandenong Stingrays/Beaconsfield Carlton 62 Ben Sinclair Oakleigh Chargers/Scotch Collingwood 50 James Podsiadly Geelong (VFL)/Werribee (VFL) Geelong Cats 63 Lukas Markovic Box Hill Hawks (VFL)/Hawthorn/Eastern Ranges Western Bulldogs 55 Marcus Marigliani Frankston (VFL)/Seaford Essendon 69 Murray Bushrangers/Wahgunyah Hawthorn 68 Patrick Rose Williamstown (VFL)/Western Jets Western Bulldogs 77 Will Johnson Sandringham (VFL)/Sandringham Dragons St Kilda 75 Dylan McNeil Murray Bushrangers/Lavington Sydney Swans

afl victoria annual review 2009 27 continuing to provide A clear pathway to the top

ith the VFL and TAC umpiring suburban football in Melbourne’s Cup competitions at Report south-east. Clearly, the coaching, W their pinnacle, the Kevin Mitchell structure and ongoing exposure to Victorian umpiring pathway State Director high-quality football in Victoria continues to provide the chance of Umpiring are helping to prepare our umpires for aspiring officials to fulfil for the next step in their careers. their potential. We will keep The facilities at our Victoria Park As usual, the 2009 season “searching for ways headquarters are the envy of featured ongoing refinement of and means that umpiring groups across the nation. feedback and coaching processes, On the subject of personal as well as a healthy turnover of technology can assist achievement, mention should umpires due to elevations to the the professional also be made of VFL goal umpire AFL, departures and an influx development of field, Andrew Clifton’s 175th match of young talent. Our established boundary and goal in 2009, the milestone earning structure of development and him life membership alongside senior umpiring panels – with umpires, which is vital previous inductees such as Shane respective average ages of 22 for these individuals Mason and Dan Beard. and 26 years – ensures every and the game itself And while AFL Tasmania made opportunity is given to officials in the long-term. the decision to withdraw the to challenge themselves and ” Tasmania Devils from the VFL this progress to the next level. year due to its new state league, Congratulations must go out our umpiring alliance with our to 2008 VFL Grand Final field for season 2010. It is a credit to southern neighbour remained umpires Troy Pannell and Robert umpiring administrators and our strong. This was highlighted by Findlay, who advanced to the state leagues that approximately Shaun Gleeson’s selection as an AFL in 2009, with colleague 85 per cent of the current AFL emergency field umpire in the VFL Michael Jennings elevated to panel originate from Victoria, Grand Final, after the Tasmanian the AFL rookie list. Meanwhile, with esteemed officials the ilk of had earlier officiated in three boundary umpires Shane Jones Michael Vozzo having graduated senior finals matches. and Christopher Gordon, and goal through our system. Open dialogue between the umpire Stephen Williams also This year Shaun Ryan, who umpiring department and VFL reached the big stage. was recruited to the VFL from clubs continues to create a positive Despite stiff competition and Warrnambool Umpires, oversaw environment for all parties, with limited vacancies, I am hopeful his second straight AFL Grand clubs provided with detailed of more Victorians again being Final, while on-field colleague umpiring statistics following every selected on the national panel Steve McBurney was a product of six rounds, including missed and

28 afl victoria annual review 2009 AFL Victoria State Director of Umpiring Kevin Mitchell (second from left) congratulates the VFL’s umpires of the year for 2009, (L-R) Michael Jennings (field), Courtney Lai (goal) and Michael Marantelli (boundary). unwarranted free kicks, backwards – outlining the process of decision- many aspects of our craft. We kicks in the defensive half and making and the implementation of will certainly keep searching for 50-metre penalties awarded. any new laws or interpretations. ways and means that technology The Sportstec software program Additionally, Sportstec enables can assist the professional (used widely by AFL clubs) allows weekly coaching sessions to be development of field, boundary us each pre-season to present a posted online for umpires and and goal umpires, which is vital detailed coaching DVD to clubs observers, as well as feeding for these individuals and the game – including those in the TAC Cup an extensive database on the itself in the long-term.

afl victoria annual review 2009 29 afl victoria administration As at December, 2009

chief executive officer Peter Schwab [email protected] 8663 3011

financial controller executive assistant to ceo Stephen Smith Silvana Hurst [email protected] [email protected] 8663 3012 8663 3011

marketing manager marketing officer Peter Harley Jennifer Pryor [email protected] [email protected] 8663 3001 8663 3007

football operations manager Partnerships and Communications Coordinator John Hook Kaylee George [email protected] [email protected] 8663 3004 8663 3009

high performance manager receptionist Anton Grbac Sarah Murphy [email protected] [email protected] 8663 3002 8663 3000

high performance manager football operations assistant Leon Harris Sophie Timms [email protected] [email protected] 8663 3016 8663 3005

football operations state director of umpiring Administration officer Kevin Mitchell Sam Coen [email protected] [email protected] 9416 1499 8663 3003

umpiring assistant Angela Lindsay [email protected] 9416 1499

30 afl victoria annual review 2009 northern knights murray bushrangers gippsland power Metro Northern country Murray Gippsland Peter Kennedy Region Manager Andrew Carson Region Manager Peter Francis Region Manager [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 9478 3431 5722 1776 5134 8133 Phiv Demetriou Greg Liddell Region Development Manager Rob Reid Region Development Manager calder cannons Northern Community Development Manager bendigo pioneers North West Goulburn Murray East Gippsland [email protected] Bendigo [email protected] [email protected] 9432 2427 5822 2366 5143 0568 Ian Kyte Region Manager Ray Byrne Region Manager Ashley Brown [email protected] [email protected] Jeff Chandler Region Development Manager Damian Carroll Northern Community Development Officer 9350 7112 5444 5832 North East Border Region Development Manager/Coach north west [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Len Villani 9435 1264 Trevor Mellington Region Development Manager (02) 6040 6451 5134 8133 Region Development Manager North Central and Central Murray [email protected] [email protected] Zac Guilfoyle Region Development Manager 9350 7407 5480 6186 North East Border (Wangaratta) northern eastern ranges [email protected] Eastern Tony McNamara Region Development Manager sunraysia 5722 1776 [email protected] western jets Anthony Parkin 5444 4800 mallee Western Region Development Manager [email protected] Trevor Ryan Region Development Officer 9724 9488 Sunraysia/Mallee Shane Sexton Region Manager Shawn Wilkey [email protected] [email protected] Eastern Community Development Manager 5024 8246 North 9390 0611 western [email protected] central Graeme Pratt 9724 9488 & Region Development Manager eastern [email protected] central Central 9390 0611 east north ballarat rebels murray Ballarat goulburn dandenong stingrays murray Outer Southern/Peninsula Phil Partington Region Manager oakleigh chargers [email protected] wimmera Darren Flanigan Region Manager Central East inner 5339 0915 north east [email protected] border southern 9791 8656 Geoff Burdett Region Development Manager bendigo Stephen Conole Region Manager Wimmera [email protected] Mark Wheeler [email protected] Region Development Manager 9563 0588 5382 6443 [email protected] Jock Whiting Region Development Manager ballarat Mark Smart Region Development Manager 9791 8656 South West [email protected] [email protected] 9563 0588 outer 5572 3218 southern/ peninsula Tim Shearer Region Development Officer South multicultural North Ballarat west development officers [email protected] east gippsland sandringham dragons 5339 0916 geelong Inner Southern Harmit Singh Northern Region [email protected] latrobe Ryan O’Connor Region Manager 8412 1018 hampden valley [email protected] geelong falcons 9532 8688 Michael Nguyen Geelong South East Region Gary Brown Inner Southern [email protected] Community Development Manager 9816 2209 Michael Turner Region Manager [email protected] [email protected] 9532 8688 Eder-Luiz Martins 5241 6986 North West Region [email protected] Alan Thompson Region Development Manager 9230 0300 Hampden [email protected] Michael Roberts 5562 1167 Central East Region [email protected] 9426 4414 John Edsall Region Development Manager [email protected] Western Region 5241 6986 TBA afl victoria DEVELOPMENT Central As at December, 2009

management Michael Daniher Manager Development and Planning [email protected] 8663 3008

community football administration Peter McDougall Ellie Campbell Community Football Development Manager Development Receptionist [email protected] [email protected] 8663 3006 8663 3055 Darryl Collings Samantha Lee Club Development Manager Development Administration Support [email protected] [email protected] 8663 3074 8663 3069 Holly Lunt Community Football Administration Assistant [email protected] 8663 3017 kickstart indigenous programs Stephen Stewart Leon Egan Footyweb Manager Kickstart Indigenous Development Manager [email protected] [email protected] 8663 3043 8663 3046

coaching female programs Steve Teakel Chyloe Kurdas Coaching Development Manager Female Football Development Manager [email protected] [email protected] 8663 3015 8663 3042

fair game – respect matters junior programs Katrina O’Donnell Trevor Robertson R&R Project Officer Schools Development Manager [email protected] [email protected] 8663 3075 8663 3014

Keith Burns Programs Coordinator umpiring programs [email protected] Neville Nash 8663 3019 Umpiring Development Manager Michael Stinear [email protected] State Auskick Manager 8663 3067 [email protected] 8663 3013 multicultural programs Nick Hatzoglou development managers Multicultural Football Project Coordinator For Metropolitan and Country Region Development Managers, [email protected] see pages 31-34 9643 1928

For Multicultural Development Officers, see page 32

afl victoria annual review 2009 35 WORKING TO SECURE VICTORIAN FOOTBALL’S FUTURE AT ALL LEVELS

ne of the core financial management is required to ensure responsibilities of the summary all outcomes are in the best OAFL Victoria board Stephen Smith interests of Victorian football as and executive is to ensure a fair Financial Controller a whole. and balanced deployment of In addition to direct funding, income received from the AFL AFL Victoria deploys funds into and other areas. One of AFL Victoria’s core programs and services that The combined 2009 trading responsibilities is to allocate its enable access to development result of both our entities, AFL $17 million income across its programs, coordination of Victoria and AFL Victoria operations. Prudent and thoughtful Auskick, participation programs, Development Foundation, was a surplus of $241,876 from a FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 2009 turnover in excess of $17 million. Actual ‘09 The result exceeded our budgeted forecasts and was made possible by Income

the diligent work of the executive Leagues Managed by State $908,341 team and all our staff. I would like to AFL Grant $6,031,000 acknowledge the great support all these people have given me. Talent Development Fees $2,599,030 Of AFL Victoria’s $17 million- Other Revenue $343,804

plus turnover, 50 per cent was Marketing and Sponsorship $2,789,684 AFL-generated income, with AFL Participation and Development $4,677,167 grants and talent development fees in 2009 totalling $8.6 million. Total Income $17,349,026 The AFL also carried out a variety of financial tasks forAFL Victoria Expenditure through its shared services area, Communications and Media $150,412 improving our efficiency and Leagues Managed by States $1,507,485 cost effectiveness. If as forecast Local Grants $521,500 AFL funding does not keep pace with the growth of activity in this Game Development $13,389,474* state, and if AFL Victoria is to Administration and Finance $1,442,028

continuously improve its services Marketing and Sponsorship $96,251 to Victorian football, it is critical Total Expenditure $17,107,150 we identify new sources of income from commercial and Net Result $241,876 government areas. *Refer to graph on opposite page

36 afl victoria annual review 2009 coaching and administrative courses, footy web, interleague championships, and AFL Victoria Game Development funding 2009 head office management, $13,389,474 support and administration. Capital expenditure on infrastructure is imperative to the ongoing future of our game and over the past few years we have achieved great outcomes jointly funding projects with government, councils, sponsors, the AFL and VFL and TAC Cup clubs. By the end of 2010 we will have completed about $30 million in capital works over a three-year period. When completed, the upgrades will not only benefit the VFL and TAC Cup clubs concerned but also the local clubs, schools and community groups who use the facilities.

Umpiring Youth Participation $918,342 $483,902 Coaching Talent $723,706 $4,990,344 Junior Participation Community Development $2,975,608 $3,297,572

Gippsland Power’s new multi-purpose indoor training facility (pictured below and above) would not have been possible without the assistance of a raft of partners including Latrobe City Council, Bendigo Bank and Loy Yang B, and the vision and hard work of region manager Peter Francis.

afl victoria annual review 2009 37 AN INTRINSIC PART OF victoriA’S COMMUNITY FABRIC

t the start of 2009 we were marketing all somewhat anxious about Report AFL Victoria would like Athe economic downturn to thank the following Peter Harley and how it would impact on partners: community football and particularly Marketing Manager Australia Post its ability to raise revenue. While we Beiersdorf certainly were faced with a difficult Football is not just a Buffalo Sports environment in which the task of sport,“ it’s a story about CFA raising much-needed funds proved connection, culture, Club Warehouse more onerous than in the past, from communities and ConnectEast all indications, the worst of our Department of Justice fears did not eventuate. characters. Department of Planning and It would appear, however, that ” Community Development we may be facing a ‘lag effect’, Ford which will likely result in 2010 being ‘Go for your life’ an even more difficult year to raise hundreds of thousands of players, Kombat funds. Small and large business will volunteers, supporters and fans. Melbourne Club be in new budget years and have Football dominates television, Foundation reviewed their capacity to continue radio, newspaper and the internet. Patties Bakeries partnerships with football clubs in The media coverage is massive, Sherrin light of what they have recently but the game’s real popularity is Sport & Recreation Victoria been through. No doubt the reflected in how every Monday TAC (major TAC Cup sponsor) recovery in the economy will help, morning at every workplace, VicHealth but once again that may take some street corner, tram, train, bus, time to flow through. Individuals schoolyard, and local store will also be reviewing how they Victorians discuss what happened the destructive bushfires earlier spend their discretionary income. in the football on the weekend – be in the year, AFL Victoria wanted to What does this mean for it in the AFL or local community play its part alongside the general Victorian football in 2010? competition. As Martin Flanagan football community, which had Basically, it will see everyone in recently stated at a VCFL function, reacted quickly to the crisis. AFL football – AFL Victoria, leagues and football is not just a sport, it’s a Victoria was not in a position to clubs – working more diligently to story about connection, culture, provide funding, so it made the convince existing and prospective communities and characters. CFA the VFL’s community partner. funding partners on the benefits of The unique standing of football This provided the CFA with the partnering football. in Victoria is why the CFA agreed opportunity to utilise AFL Football is part of the fabric to become the community partner Victoria’s extensive communication of Victoria, involving many of the VFL in 2009. Following channels to educate and inform

38 afl victoria annual review 2009 AFL Victoria is delighted to work with ‘Go for your life’ to promote exercise and healthy eating among children and their families.

the Victorian public about the CFA view, associating with a partner involved provides a lesson to us and its diverse activities, including such as the CFA is not only the all in terms of what football has to recruitment and recognition. In right and responsible thing to do, it offer. Our game has the potential many ways, the football industry also helps form a real connection to attract commercial partners and the CFA are very similar; between two Victorian icons – the who wish to be associated with we both rely on volunteers and VFL and the CFA. such a community-orientated are both integral parts of the While our CFA relationship does sport, whether that is for reason Victorian community. not involve funding, the rationale of association or the potential sale From AFL Victoria’s point of behind the CFA’s decision to be of their goods and services.

afl victoria annual review 2009 39 development programs underpinning football’s growth

FL Victoria Development Generation Match Policy, which provides access to a wide afl victoria guide the conduct of under- development A range of development age competitions, was aimed at programs, resources and Michael Daniher achieving this objective. services aimed at growing on Manager, Development Further, the introduction in and off-field participation in and Planning Northern Football League clubs enjoyable, safe and inclusive of the Fair Game: Respect Matters football environments. Football gave those program, aimed at providing safe The crucial role football affected“ by drought, and inclusive environments for plays in strengthening families economic downturn or women and girls, is evidence of AFL and community relationships Victoria’s commitment to ensure was illustrated many times over bushfires an important games of football and related across the state in 2009. Football sense of community social activities are conducted in gave those affected by drought, solidarity, with whole an atmosphere where everyone economic downturn or bushfires communities coming involved has a good time. an important sense of community Quality environments also solidarity, with whole communities together to share their form an important part of AFL coming together to share their experiences. Victoria’s retention strategies experiences. ” as player numbers grow. The During a season where continuing popularity of football community football clubs and regional football bodies, is reflected in the 236,271 players confronted many challenges, with an aligned strategy being – up by 2767 on 2008 – registered amazingly the growth in developed to deliver much in competitions and programs participation levels was amongst better program outcomes for conducted over a minimum of the highest yearly growth on schools, leagues, clubs and NAB six weeks in 2009. Thousands record in this sector. AFL Auskick centres, which will more participants were involved As clearly demonstrated translate into higher participation. in programs of less than six-weeks in communities ravaged by A key plank in AFL Victoria’s duration played in our schools. bushfires, better outcomes are growth objective is striving to At community club level 97 new achieved where the AFL, AFL improve the quality of the state’s teams were formed, compared to Victoria, the VCFL, and country football environments to ensure 67 in 2008. The total number of and metropolitan leagues supporters and participants teams is now 5354 – the highest work to a coordinated plan enjoy their involvement and are, recorded. Since 2003, 641 new to provide support. therefore, more likely to continue teams have been formed in football This is an example of the in the game. The introduction clubs around the state, an average strengthening alliance being of the Members Protection of more than 100 new teams a year forged between national, state Policy and the AFL’s Next during this six-year period.

40 afl victoria annual review 2009 Jesse Rotumah-Gardiner of the Dandenong North Junior Football Club at the National KickStart Camp.

afl victoria annual review 2009 41 The interest in women’s and girl’s football continues to grow. Overall participation numbers grew TOTAL PLAYER PARTICIPATION by 15 per cent in 2009 with player numbers now exceeding 4500. The Youth Girls Academy program, introduced to develop the most promising youth girls players and umpires, won Sport and Recreation Victoria Awards in the Sport and Education category, testimony to the quality of the football programs on offer for girls. Player growth trends in the NAB AFL Auskick program exceeded all targets with new registrations up by 2664 on 2008. For the first time, total participant numbers climbed Community Club (133,850) Recreation (182) above 49,000. The growing challenge of Auskick (49,040) Veterans (2,300) gaining access to an already overcrowded school curriculum Schools (46,375) Female (4,524) became more evident this year when school team numbers marginally declined by 130 teams hours to conduct clinics in schools, very diverse multicultural population in competitions running more than NAB AFL Auskick centres and clubs, residing in the Greater City of six weeks. However, it is pleasing including visits to 50 country towns. Dandenong. With the establishment there was an overall increase of 339 The Multicultural Football of a new board of directors and school teams when both programs Program is playing an increasingly management team underpinned by running more than six weeks and important role in attracting children a new strategic plan, junior football is those running less than six weeks and families from diverse cultural now well placed to cater for growth were combined. backgrounds to football. With the in this region. The number of female teams support of AFL clubs, the program’s Significant advances were competing in primary and flagship activity is the multicultural made with the roll-out of the secondary schools also increased. schools program that involved 100 Footyweb online competition At secondary level 13,850 players schools exposing 9000 students and player-management system participated, with 2350 students to a 10-week Australian Football to cater for all leagues in Victoria. from 94 schools involved in program as part of their induction In addition to streamlining league the primary school sector. to the game. Cultural diversity and club administration, the And a Victorian under-16 state training programs were also database will provide quality schoolgirl team competed in the conducted for AFL Victoria’s staff information when combined with inaugural School Sport Australia and club volunteers. a new mapping system that AFL Championships for girls. A range of training programs Victoria is working on with the AFL Recognising the important were made available through to assist future planning. role coaches play as the game’s AFL Victoria, the VCFL and In 2009, AFL Victoria gatekeepers, more than 50 Level 1 metropolitan leagues to support commenced a partnership with Coach Accreditation courses were volunteer club administrators. Sports Education Development conducted involving some 3000 During 2009, 9400 volunteers Australia (SEDA), which provided coaches. The Australian Football attended training programs Year 11 and 12 students with an Coaches Association (AFCA), conducted across Victoria. opportunity to be involved in capably lead by president Stan To ensure football is well a sports industry-based VCE Alves, provided ongoing education positioned to cater for the growth in or VCAL Certificate III, IV and courses and resources for its 6000- the south-east corridor of Melbourne, Diploma in Sport and Recreation. plus members during 2009. a governance and management The AFL Victoria Development AFL player appearances form restructure was undertaken at the Advisory Board continued to an important component of AFL Dandenong District Junior Football provide guidance and expertise Victoria’s promotion program. In League. This league covers the on program review and 2009, AFL players with the support expanding populations in the cities implementation. In particular, the of their clubs volunteered 10,728 of Casey and Cardinia along with the Advisory Board provided input

42 afl victoria annual review 2009 into the Growth Area Authority draft precincts structure guidelines on open-space requirements GROWTH IN COMMUNITY CLUB TEAMS for sporting fields, government 6000 projects and the development of the next phase of AFL Victoria’s strategic plan. 5000 5354 5257 5189 The next phase of our strategic 5131 plan – to be implemented from 4961 4713 4000 4804 2010-11 – will see a much stronger integration of the key objectives of the AFL, AFL Victoria and local 3000 community leagues. The core areas of the new plan will focus 2000 on participation, community football, talent and second-tier football, facilities and environment 1000 development, engagement of under-represented population groups, fan development, and 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 governance and management. The success of the development programs is due to the dedicated upgrades of established venues Football League and its clubs, efforts of AFL Victoria’s central around the state. Further, state which is aimed at providing more and regional development team. sporting association funding is inclusive, safe and welcoming Countless hours are spent by assisting the development of an football environments for women the people listed in the centre online mapping system and various and girls. The clubs are making pages of this publication planning recognition programs for volunteers. good progress with a number of and implementing grassroots The support of the Minister for Sport initiatives aimed at ensuring their programs. and Recreation and Youth Affairs, policies, practices and facilities James Merlino, is a significant boost are more conducive for the AFL Victoria’s major partners for the promotion of participation involvement of women and girls. The AFL: Critical financial support in football and sport generally, and resources are provided by recognising this sector’s capacity Melbourne Cricket Club the AFL to assist AFL Victoria to contribute to the health and Foundation: Through the ‘G Development’s programs aimed wellbeing of Victorians. Footy’ partnership, AFL Victoria at nurturing the game at grassroots and the Melbourne Cricket level. Importantly, the AFL also VicHealth: For 20 years VicHealth Club Foundation provide a provides support by using its and AFL Victoria Development comprehensive menu of primary extensive influence to negotiate have formed an alliance aimed at and secondary school programs programs such as the National building participation across all designed for implementation Insurance Scheme for leagues levels of football, both in traditional both in the classroom and in and clubs. and new markets. In 2009 two key school playgrounds. Via the AFL programs were delivered through School Ambassador network, the AFL clubs: Thousands of children the alliance: partnership also promotes the at local clubs and schools enjoy wonderful opportunity schools the experience of having an AFL 1. Participation in Community Sport have to attend the MCC National player visit their communities. and Recreation (PICSAR): This is Sports Museum. AFL clubs and their players are a program aimed at increasing involved in a number of activities to football participation in under- ‘Go for your life’: AFL Victoria support both participation and fan represented community groups, works with the ‘Go for your life’ development programs. namely children and families from team to promote increased physical multicultural and indigenous activity and healthy eating among Department of Planning and communities, disability groups children and families. Football Community Development: Funding and lower socio-economic activities provide a vehicle to provided by the department via communities. promote the benefits of good Sport and Recreation Victoria 2. Fair Game: Respect Matters: This eating habits and physically ensures essential resources are is a culture-change program active programs, which lead available for new facilities and being conducted by the Northern to a healthy lifestyle.

afl victoria annual review 2009 43 Department of Justice: Key distribution of AFL Victoria and gambling. The program was problem gambling and responsible AFL funding. presented at all club volunteer and gambling messages were delivered It is pleasing to announce coaching courses in the NFL and in partnership with the Department that all clubs achieved the West Gippsland Football League of Justice in the West Gippsland- required benchmark of 80 per throughout the year. Latrobe Football League in country cent in terms of our league Victoria and the Northern Football management rating in 2009, with Drought League in the metropolitan area. the program to undergo a review In making every effort to ensure The various messages promoted leading into 2010. grounds were in suitable condition through community football for matches, AFL Victoria again clubs are linked to the Victorian Club Management collaborated closely with state Government’s problem Training Program and local government, insurers gambling strategy. In 2009, more than 9000 and football leagues during 2009. volunteers attended league A number of councils have been EastLink: With the support of and club training workshops proactive in changing grass types ConnectEast, AFL Victoria was throughout metropolitan and to drought-proof their venues, able to conduct the EastLink country regions. and we will continue to work with football development programs community leaders to address this in 2009 that involved primary Quality Club Program issue into the future. schools along the EastLink There was a dramatic increase corridor and VFL clubs. in the number of participants AFL Victoria Metropolitan in the Quality Club Program Junior Championships in 2009, with 83 clubs gaining Metropolitan carnivals for the community accreditations – up from 25 in under-14 and under-15 age groups football 2008. Special mention must go to were again held in 2009, and despite Peter McDougall West Preston Lakeside Football one particularly foggy Wednesday Club, which became the only night round, the Grand Finals were Community Football club to achieve gold level during eventually played at Box Hill City Development the year. The Northern Football Oval. Congratulations to the Yarra Manager League (NFL) and the Goulburn Junior Football League, Dandenong Valley Football League (GVFL) and District Junior Football League, As this state’s – and our also deserve commendation Eastern Football League and South nation’s – most popular sport, for their commitment to both Eastern Youth Girls for winning their Australian Football relies upon the program and their own respective Grand Finals. the strength and quality of its improvement, with all NFL and community bodies to continually GVFL clubs achieving 100 per cent Future Directions Review drive it forward. accreditation. and Implementation In its mission to nurture and During 2009, AFL Victoria was grow the game’s grassroots, AFL Initiatives in 2009: responsible for the management Victoria’s Community Football Volunteer of the Year and restructure of the Dandenong unit is committed to providing the In recognition of his tireless and Districts Junior Football necessary resources, training and efforts with the Murrabit Football League (DDJFL). Following a support to leagues and clubs, thus Club, Vince Maher was named thorough review of the league, ensuring footy remains No. 1. In the 2009 Volunteer of the Year, the subsequent recommendations this regard, the fact that 97 new with his prize including a two-night were adopted by all clubs, with teams were established across the stay in Melbourne, participation AFL Victoria appointing a project state in 2009 indicates our code is in the AFL Grand Final parade, manager to implement the in fine health at local level. a place at the VFL Grand Final recommendations – that included dinner and the AFL Grand Final a new constitution and strategic Major programs in 2009: breakfast and luncheon, plus a plan – over a 12-month period. Quality League ticket to the big game. Through this period of change, Management Program we would like to acknowledge the An initiative to ensure consistent Problem Gambling support and cooperation of all governance and management AFL Victoria entered the second clubs, which will ensure the DDJFL across all leagues, the Quality year of its partnership with the enters an exciting new era from League Management Program Department of Justice in 2009, 2010 and beyond. The structures is based on promoting best continuing the pilot initiative to employed could well become a practices, while also aiding the educate football clubs on how model used by other leagues in assessment process for the future to recognise and problem the future.

44 afl victoria annual review 2009 Australian Football continues to attract more participants from culturally diverse backgrounds.

In 2009, the Multicultural 1. Multicultural Academy Camp multicultural Schools Football Program was Through the support of the AFL football implemented in 102 schools (80 Foundation, two camps took Nick Hatzoglou primary, eight secondary, two place, one in Sydney and one in AFL Multicultural tertiary and 12 English language Melbourne, reaching 180 trialists Football Project schools), exposing 9000 students and 80 camp attendees. Coordinator to football. 2. Cultural Diversity Training Multicultural development A new training component, Through the AFL Victoria officers and community managers which educates clubs about Multicultural Program the AFL are playing a key role in engaging communities of newly arrived uses Australian Football as a tool culturally diverse communities Australians and how to integrate to strengthen local communities with AFL clubs Essendon (Nick CALD kids into their club and enhance social inclusion for Hannett and Eder-Luiz Martins), environments, was introduced in newly arrived Australians and Western Bulldogs (position vacant), the AFL junior, youth and Auskick those from culturally diverse North Melbourne (Sash Herceg), coaching course and delivered in backgrounds. Richmond (Michael Roberts), the western region of Melbourne As Australia’s most popular Hawthorn (Michael Nguyen), to 115 participants. national sport, Australian Football Carlton (Yuta Kobayashi) and 3. Participation at is strongly placed to attract Collingwood (Harmit Singh). Community Festivals significant numbers of participants The Multicultural Program is run More than 36,533 community from the multicultural sector. in partnership with the Victorian members, comprising 21,157 The Multicultural Program aims Government, the AFL and the active and 15,376 non-active to win a bigger share of this Western Bulldogs, Collingwood, participants, took part in the: sector by helping people from Essendon, Richmond, North pp Springvale and Box Hill Lunar culturally and linguistically Melbourne, Carlton and Hawthorn. New Year festivals; diverse (CALD) backgrounds The Multicultural Program’s pp Eumemmerring Hampton Park get involved in football. 2009 highlights included: ‘Game On’ gala day;

afl victoria annual review 2009 45 pp ‘Welcome to the AFL’ and the Sri Lankan, Indian and pp 300 children from the presentations with AMES Japanese press. Mainstream Multicultural Schools Football Flagstaff students; media coverage included Program participated in half- pp AFL presentation to 150 stories in The Age newspaper time NAB AFL Auskick Rules Swinburne University on the Southern Dragons, the and grid games on the MCG and international students; Multicultural Program and Etihad Stadium; pp Box Hill Chinese business Majak Daw. Television highlights pp 72 schools and 4285 participants network; and included footage on Channel visited the National Sports pp AMES Men’s Camp. Seven and Channel Nine news Museum and toured the MCG; regarding the Multicultural pp Six new NAB AFL Auskick 4. Enhanced Relationships Academy Camp in Melbourne. centres were established to cater with Mainstream and for young people from high-rise Multicultural Media 5. Southern Dragons Football Club housing estates and culturally AFL media accreditation was Sponsored and supported the diverse areas, attracting organised for the Turkish Southern Dragons Football 250 participants; Report, and the Sameway Club in the Southern Football pp The Multicultural Schools Cup (China), Neos Kosmos (Greek), League (SFL). In 2009, 92 attracted 800 participants; and Ambassador (African predominantly Asian players pp 47 tours were conducted at AFL and Arabic) newspapers. A were registered to play in the clubs reaching 2136 participants; campaign targeting Arabic- SFL, some playing competitive pp 10,000 Auskick footballs were speaking communities that football for the first time. given to students participating centred around in the Multicultural Schools was undertaken and received 6. Other developments included: Football Program; and extensive media coverage in pp 22,000 people from migrant pp A partnership with Sports Arabic press and radio. Closer communities (from 132 different without Borders continued to working relationships were groups) visited an AFL game, provide grants for young people forged with SBS TV and Radio, most for the first time; to play Australian Football.

AFL Victoria offers a raft of education programs that ensure coaches at all levels are better placed to get the best out of their teams. Photo: Emma Phillips

46 afl victoria annual review 2009 coach education - The Level 2 Coaching Course NAB AFL Auskick program. building coaching was conducted in November, Additionally, about 220 tertiary communities with community and state league students and 100 teachers Steve Teakel coaches selected to attend the attend AFL Victoria coaching Coaching Development course, which operated at youth programs annually. Manager and senior levels. Listening to presentations from , Australian Football Coaches AFL Victoria continues to provide , and Association (AFCA) coach education programs Leon Harris served to inspire the The Victorian branch of the to develop the new wave of group, which then had a number Australian Football Coaches community, school and high of assessment items to complete, Association (AFCA) acts as a performance coaches. including training diaries, practical coaching community to provide AFL Victoria also supports sessions and sourcing a coaching ongoing support, development existing coaches through activities mentor for the season. and resources to prospective conducted by regional branches High performance coaches who and existing coaches throughout of the Australian Football Coaches work in the TAC Cup, VFL and AFL the state. Association (AFCA). were selected to attend an annual Working with the AFL course conducted at the AIS Coaches Association, regional Coach education courses during the AFL draft camp week. AFCA branches were able to In 2009, the coach education Several market specific courses offer community coaches the program again aimed to provide the were also available for teachers, opportunity to listen to a range of opportunity to develop a range of tertiary students and female AFL assistant coaches. Through skills and solid understanding of the coaches, including a number of the AFL coaching program, AFCA coach’s role. This included season preliminary coaching programs. Victoria members receive regular planning, conducting a training These included: electronic newsletter updates session, skill analysis, team play and pp Coaching Awareness regarding coaching. Each regional tactics. Courses are tailored to the Sessions: Conducted via the branch has produced coaching age group participants are coaching. NAB AFL Auskick program, newsletters to support the ongoing More than 50 coach education introducing participants to the education of its coaches. courses were conducted, with close management of a small group, A highlight of 2009 was the to 3000 participants achieving a teaching basic football and AFCA Victoria Coach of the Level 1 accreditation certificate, supervisory skills; Year Awards, which recognised which is recognised throughout pp Orientation to Coaching: An coaching service and excellence in Australia. extended introduction to the following areas of community The Level 1 Coaching Course coaching groups of up to coaching: NAB AFL Auskick, junior was conducted in four streams – 15, which included teaching club, youth, female, senior, VFL and AFL Auskick, junior club, youth Australian Football skills, basic TAC Cup. and senior. These formed the coaching methodology and The 2009 winners were: minimum requirement to coach in all planning; conducted via the Auskick: Ray Gallagher AFL Victoria-affiliated leagues. NAB AFL Auskick program; and (Swifts Creek Auskick) To help coaches understand the pp Leadership Coaching Courses Junior: Kevin Hernan (Russell’s concept and practice of inclusive for Students: An extension of Creek Junior Football Club) coaching, AFL Victoria has been the Orientation to Coaching Youth: Darren Boulton trialling this component in a Level Course available to secondary (Montmorency Junior Football Club) 1 Junior Course. Instead of being school students, with a focus Senior: Stuart Farr (Horsham a single component of the course, on coaching principles, Football and Netball Club) the concept of ‘inclusive coaching’ practical skills and developing Female: Alyshia Souter (Rosebud has been illustrated through topics training sessions. JFC/Olympic Park Auskick) such as role of the coach, planning In partnership with Cricket TAC Cup: Garry Hocking a training session and teaching Victoria, AFL Victoria has (Geelong Falcons) skills and drills. As one Auskick developed a dual recognition VFL: Peter German (Casey Scorpions) coach remarked, “The course gave Level 1 Junior Coaching Course, Lifetime achievement: Ray Allsopp me a greater understanding of the which has been conducted at different approaches you can use the Geelong, Burwood and With former St Kilda coach Stan when coaching. There are many Warrnambool campuses of Alves as president, the objective ways to modify or change activities Deakin University. of the association is to lead and to suit the children. The course gave More than 700 participants act in the best interests of coach me more confidence to do whatI attended coaching orientation education and coaching support, love doing.” sessions conducted via the and to uphold the integrity, quality

afl victoria annual review 2009 47 football before. In particular, AFL Recreational Football has been very strongly embraced by females as well as males, and in age levels from school children to 55-year- olds. It has also been a useful life motivational tool and outlet for disadvantaged and unemployed youth; organised through RecLink, this was one of the game’s major successes. AFL Recreational Football is also used by football coaches as part of their training programs because of its non- contact nature, small teams and skill base.

AFL Recreational Football is ‘the game for everyone’. Photo: Emma Phillips Growth in the community and value of coaching in the interest in football, and focuses Significant growth was achieved football community. The Victorian on health, fitness, safety and the throughout the state with single branch of AFCA is administered social aspects of team sport while and mixed-gender community through its 19 regional branches maintaining a strong relationship competitions kicking off in both and has a membership of more with the traditional game. metropolitan and regional Victoria. than 6300 coaches in Victoria. Strong participation numbers have Each regional branch of the What is Recreational Footy? been recorded at competitions AFCA is a coaching community, AFL Recreational Football was conducted by the Western with a committee headed up by specifically designed to increase Bulldogs Football Club, the an AFL Victoria development participation in football and Koonwarra/Leongatha RSL Cricket manager to oversee the physical activity in the wider Club and AFL Victoria at Box Hill. production of a local coaching community. It has modified rules AFL Recreational Football is newsletter, the conduct of so it is a game the whole family suitable for special events and regional coach of the year awards, can play. All contact has been has featured prominently in the maintenance of a coaching removed, it is not too physically Australian Corporate Games and resource centre and the fulfilment demanding, it can be played by State Youth Games. In 2009, of regional coaching seminars. all ages and both genders, and it with the support of the VicHealth- emphasises socialising, fun and funded PICSAR program, an AFL Recreational football safety. The game is designed to be emphasis has been placed The game for everyone flexible in its structure and may be on introducing multicultural AFL Recreational Football adapted to suit the age and ability communities to Australian Football provides an easy opportunity for level of participants, as well as the via AFL Recreational Football, wider community participation in playing space available. An AFL especially in the Goulburn Murray Australian Football beyond existing Recreational Football resource and northern regions. community club competitions. kit – containing goalposts, ground In just a short time, the game markers, bibs, tag belts and a Growth in schools has attracted a wide range of football – has been developed Primary and secondary schools participants – young and old, to support both community and have been especially interested female and male – with varying school competitions. in AFL Recreational Football with levels of experience in the the game played by more than traditional game of football. Strong demand 7700 students and teachers. It Strong demand has come from has become a common feature Object: Increased several sectors with more than of AFL Sports Education access to football 9000 participants playing (SEPEP) programs, the ACHPER The AFL Recreational Football the game in the community, conference, house competitions motto, ‘The game for everyone’, at school or as part of special and lunchtime activities because perfectly outlines the main one-day events. Additionally, of its ability to attract a wide range objective of this relatively new there has been a strong demand of participants. AFL Recreational initiative. The game is enjoyed from sectors of the community Football has also been included by all who have a passion and that have not been involved in into tertiary Level One courses.

48 afl victoria annual review 2009 Umpire Development Neville Nash Umpire Development Manager

With the support of the Victorian Country Football League and metropolitan football leagues and associations, AFL Victoria conducts a range of umpire development programs that are aimed at recruiting, training and retaining field, boundary and goal umpires. These development programs are made available The number of female umpires in Victoria increased by 7.8 per cent in 2009, while the Female to primary schools, secondary Umpiring Academy again helped to fast-track the development of some of the state’s most promising umpires. Photo: Emma Phillips schools and tertiary institutions, while assistance is also provided in the game. A full list of 2009 St Bernard’s College in Essendon to 38 umpiring groups in Victoria winners can be found at (24 students), Camberwell to conduct recruitment, education aflvic.com.au under Getting Grammar (18 students), Ringwood and training, mentoring and Involved/Umpiring. Secondary College (14 students) coaching programs. In 2009, and MacKillop College in Werribee the development programs Basic Umpiring Course (18 students). and resources available to The Basic Umpiring Course is Students attended coaching umpiring groups, leagues conducted at schools, colleges, and training sessions after school and schools included: tertiary institutions and clubs and umpired in local football across Victoria. Designed for games at the weekend. National Umpiring teachers, students and players, Accreditation Scheme all participants receive a benefits Female Umpire Development Level 1, 2 and 3 field, boundary pack that includes a DVD, the The Female Umpiring Academy and goal umpire accreditation Ultimate Guide to Umpiring continued in 2009, with nine courses were conducted through booklet, a whistle, cap and umpires selected. They participated umpire associations and leagues, drink bottle. in monthly training/coaching and AFL Victoria and the VFL. It is an The course introduces personal development sessions integral component of an umpire’s participants to the role and skills to improve their skills, knowledge career path. involved in field, boundary and and development. Opportunities goal umpiring. It also develops life were also provided to umpire Recruitment and Retention skills, including: in representative games and Umpire numbers in metropolitan pp Decision making; participate in community service Melbourne grew to their highest pp Leadership; activities. level in 12 years: pp Effective communication; and pp Female umpire numbers pp Conflict resolution. Umpire Mentor Program increased by 7.8 per cent to 289, The Umpire Mentor Program up from 268 in 2008; As part of the course, students provides a support framework pp Recruitment of new umpires involved have an opportunity to and resources for beginner increased by 14.3 per cent to officiate at NAB AFL Auskick grid umpires who make the transition 927, up from 811 in 2008; and games played at half-time in AFL from boundary umpiring to field pp Total umpire numbers increased matches. umpiring, or for newly recruited by 4.8 per cent to 2815, up from In 2009, 1295 students and field, boundary and goal umpires. 2685 in 2008. players from 65 schools and clubs An experienced umpire is successfully completed the course. appointed to guide, train and Golden Whistle Awards To assist students with the support the learning umpire The Golden Whistle Awards are transition from the course to throughout their early umpiring presented to all umpiring groups umpiring, AFL Victoria has development. During a match, and recognise outstanding established five school-based learning umpires are identified performances as well as umpiring academies at St Bede’s by distinctive green shirts, encouraging ongoing involvement College in Mentone (20 students), black shorts and green socks

afl victoria annual review 2009 49 NAB AFL AUSKICK so everyone is aware they have total) with the 11 metropolitan undertaken an umpiring induction umpiring groups and three Michael Stinear State AFL Auskick and are a ‘no go’ for criticism. selected country umpiring groups. Manager This program has played Young, developing umpires are a major role in the significant identified and paired with an advancements made in recruiting AFL umpire. They are observed The NAB AFL Auskick tagline and retaining umpires. A total of 73 in games and given feedback, as ‘where champions begin’ again new mentors entered the program, well as attending a coaching and rang true in 2009, with the number with 201 mentors returning. Green training session for AFL umpires of participating five to 12-year-olds shirt umpire numbers increased to at Monash University. reaching 49,040 – up 2664 from 925, compared to 783 in 2008. Other resources available to the previous season. In addition, umpiring groups, leagues and 20 new NAB AFL Auskick centres Professional Development Program clubs include: brought the total across the state In its fourth year, the program pp Spirit of the laws brochures; to 666. provides opportunities for umpire pp Umpiring recruitment Once more, the program would coaches and mentors to enhance brochures and posters; not have been possible without their skills and knowledge. It is a pp Laws of the Game the support of dedicated parents, four-year program and the number Interpretations DVD; coordinators and volunteers, who of participants in 2009 were: pp Ultimate Guide to Umpiring are the backbone of NAB AFL pp Year 1: 51 people; booklet; Auskick. Equally as important pp Year 2: 33; pp Umpiring promotional DVD; was the backing of NAB, with the pp Year 3: 29; and pp Umpiring Retention organisation taking its involvement pp Year 4: four. Strategies booklet; to a new level through four pp Umpire Mentor Program DVD; fantastic initiatives during the year. Mates Program pp Why Women Umpire Australian NAB AFL Auskicker of the Year The AFL Umpires Association Football DVD; and enabled parents, coordinators and AFL Victoria Mates Program pp A Day in the Life of an AFL and kids to go online and, in 200 links AFL field umpires (12 in Umpire DVD. words or less, nominate entrants who lived the Auskick values of fun, safety, teamwork and passion. During the season, the weekly winner was rewarded with an appearance in a Saturday night AFL half-time game, with the 22 lucky youngsters then receiving the honour of presenting Geelong’s premiership medallions at the 2009 AFL Grand Final, as well as playing in half-time grid games on the big day. Kyle Skene from South Barwon – a loyal Carlton fan – was eventually named as Auskicker of the Year, earning a $5000 NAB portfolio and Cats star as a football mentor for 2010. The NAB Footy Frenzy gave Auskick centres a weekly chance to win $1000 by entering the numbers imprinted on their Auskick footballs online. Fifteen centres across Victoria were lucky enough to be drawn and received the weekly prize. Balmoral took home the NAB AFL Auskick Centre of the Year award, winning a NAB AFL Auskick Super Clinic, with ambassador These girls have eyes only for the ball at this ruck contest during an NAB AFL Auskick match Robert DiPierdomenico and at half-time of a 2009 AFL game. Photo: Greg Kowalczewski.

50 afl victoria annual review 2009 The number of children enjoying NAB AFL Auskick continues to grow, with an additional 2664 participants and 20 new centres taking part in 2009.

Hawthorn stars Campbell Brown Auskick rules matches and AFL Victoria parent coaching courses and all paying a visit. Grades 3-4 enjoying grid games. Coaching awareness course For the AFL Grand Final, 48 thrilled In addition, 1224 kids played during Provided parents with basic group young locals were given a trip to the main break of VFL games. control, skills activities, coaching Melbourne to participate in the points and an introduction to the Grand Final parade and also play in NAB AFL Auskick player visits coaching world. the half-time grid games. As in 2008, there were no less The fourth initiative, the than 376 AFL player visits to Orientation coaching course NAB Assistance Fund, gave 25 NAB AFL Auskick centres Hands-on introductory course centres the opportunity to win a throughout metropolitan designed for parents/helpers Super Resource pack, resupplying Melbourne and Geelong. keen to assist in running clubs such as Anglesea FC, which coaching-based activities. had suffered the theft of much- NAB AFL Auskick needed equipment. program for all abilities Level 1 NAB AFL Auskick course During the September school Adding to the four existing Fourteen-hour course designed holidays in the build-up to the AFL specialist NAB AFL Auskick centres for parents/helpers looking to Grand Final, NAB again ran its Kick catering for children with physical assume a coaching role, organise for Kids day for approximately and intellectual disabilities were activities, teach skills or conduct 700 youngsters at Birrarung Marr, new facilities in Narre Warren modified games. attracting several NAB AFL Rising North (50 registered participants) Star nominees from 2009, including and Kew (31). NAB AFL Auskick leader Brisbane Lion and coaching course Essendon’s Michael Hurley, Tayte NAB AFL Auskick at the ’G Coaching children under 12, Pears and . As ever, the chance to partake in covering child development, an Auskick clinic on the MCG prior clinic and volunteer management NAB AFL Auskick half-time to an AFL game proved just as and coaching principles. This year, 12,548 children exciting for parents as it did for experienced the thrill of running the youngsters involved, with 875 NAB AFL Auskick website out onto the MCG, Etihad Stadium children from 21 different centres For further information about or Skilled Stadium at half-time, with running around on the hallowed NAB AFL Auskick, log on to Grades 5-6 partaking in NAB AFL turf in 2009. aflauskick.com.au

afl victoria annual review 2009 51 Schools ambitions, Australian Football Sun Shield title with a win over Trevor Robertson coaching and leadership programs St Patrick’s Ballarat, while with a focus on the role of the Frankston High School defeated Schools Development Manager coach, session planning, teaching Ballarat High School to win the basic skills and group management MCC VSSSA state championship. have been conducted in schools. There have been many milestones Primary achieved in school development Secondary As part of ConnectEast’s three-year in 2009; a new record was set AFL school ambassadors are a vital partnership with AFL Victoria, the with a 23 per cent increase in the conduit for AFL Victoria in schools, 2009 EastLink Cup primary schools number of teachers volunteering with more than 350 at secondary competition was held, involving to be G Footy school ambassadors; level. In 2009, AFL Victoria 24 primary schools situated within Jason McCartney’s, ‘Your Destiny conducted the AFL Ambassadors the EastLink corridor. St Simon’s is Matter of Choice’ was presented of the Year Award, recognising Rowville defeated Donburn Primary for the last time after four years; outstanding contributions to School in the Grand Final, which and the AFL Victoria Sport the development of Australian was played as a curtain-raiser to Development Program completed Football. The winner was Geoff the VFL preliminary final at Port a successful inaugural year Hickmott from MacKillop College, Melbourne. of operation. Swan Hill. AFL Victoria’s female football AFL Victoria continued to program continued to attract MCC G Footy program provide a range of secondary interest, with more than 92 schools A vital partnership of the school school resources, including and 2500 girls registering to sector is the MCC G Footy coaching clipboards, footballs, participate in the AFL Victoria/ program, one of the most medallions, VFL passes and VPSSA competition. prominent sports development goalposts. In 2009, the Get your Kicks at packages offered to secondary and Goalposts provide a visible the G program saw nine primary primary schools. presence of Australian Football, schools – St Andrew’s Primary G Footy is a joint AFL Victoria and a school goalpost grant in Werribee, St Mary’s Coptic and Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) scheme was implemented Orthodox College, Park Ridge Foundation initiative, which aims to provide assistance to one Primary School, Craigieburn to increase participation and secondary school wishing to Primary, Preshil The Margaret Lyttle awareness of Australian Football acquire a set of goalposts. Memorial School, Fitzroy Primary, in schools. Working alongside AFL Mooroopna Secondary College Yuille Park P-8 Community College Victoria development managers, was extremely grateful to receive and Orchard Grove Primary – and a G Footy AFL school ambassadors these resources. total of 392 children participate. have been acting as important Jason McCartney’s final These students took part in three points of contact to facilitate presentation of his highly activities – a visit to the National the distribution of resources and successful ‘Your Destiny is a Matter Sports Museum (NSM), a tour of involve the school community in a of Choice’ program was conducted the MCG and testing the new variety of activities. at the MCG in the MCC Members Game On activities in the NSM. In 2009, AFL Victoria delivered Dining Room on August 4. A total We thank the staff at the MCG programs to more than 140,000 of 670 secondary students enjoyed and NSM, as well as the AFL teachers and students. The G Footy his last presentation. For Jason, this Victoria sport development program also extended to the ends four years of presenting these students for their support. primary school sector, focusing on seminars across Australia. More The AFL primary school three main areas – the promotion of than 2000 secondary students ambassadors program underwent the National Sports Museum, AFL took part in the 2009 seminars, massive growth, with more than Ambassador program and primary gleaning much from Jason’s 1033 teachers at primary schools school programs. thought-provoking presentation. serving as AFL Victoria’s primary A key focus of the MCC G Footy We thank him for his contribution school football ambassadors. program is to support teachers to the lives and attitudes of the Ambassador schools received in their efforts to promote and many thousands of young people. resources and apparel, and in engage students in Australian More than 50,000 girls and boys 2009 the AFL Ambassador of Football. Professional learning represented their schools in 2009, the Year Award went to Christine opportunities for teachers include with the MCC Herald Sun Shield Burns from Grovedale West Level 1 coaching courses, coaching and VSSSA senior boys Grand Final Primary School. seminars, sport education (SEPEP) both played as AFL curtain-raiser In order to keep Australian and AFL Recreational Football. For games at the MCG. Assumption Football prominent, eight primary students with sports leadership College won its 11th MCC Herald schools received goalpost grants to

52 afl victoria annual review 2009 Assumption College players celebrate their 10-point victory over St Patrick’s College in the final of the 2009 MCC Herald Sun Shield – the school’s 11th, and second consecutive, win in the prestigious competition.

assist them to purchase and install brand recognition in the western be set up in Geelong, Box Hill and new goalposts. The primary schools region, as well as combining with in a yet-to-be-confirmed location in that took up this opportunity AFL Victoria to provide a quality the northern suburbs, bringing the were Our Lady Help of Christians physical activity and healthy total number of programs to eight. in Murtoa, Willowmavin Primary, eating message to children and Katamatite Primary, Thomastown teachers in the west. ‘Go for your life’ Kicking Healthy Primary, Guthrie Street Primary in Goals Program Shepparton, Springvale Heights AFL Victoria Sport AFL Victoria and ‘Go for your life’ Primary, Creswick North Primary Development Program have developed a schools program and Montpellier Primary. AFL Victoria, in partnership with aimed at providing school children AFL players were once again Sport Education Development with the opportunity to participate required to visit primary schools Australia (SEDA), has completed in classroom curriculum activities to promote Australian Football. a successful first year of theAFL complemented by physical Schools can utilise AFL players Victoria Sports Development education activities that promote to conduct classroom activities, Program, which provided 92 Year healthy food choices and the role model programs, clinics 11 and 12 students with a sports benefits of exercise. and training. This year saw industry-based VCE or VCAL The Kicking Healthy Goals 3398 AFL player appearances CertificateIII , IV and Diploma in Program was piloted in eight in primary schools, compared Sport and Recreation. schools – Yuille Community with 2950 in 2008. Eligible students were recruited School, Thornbury Primary, The Western Bulldogs’ Friendly to join a squad of 25 that was Harrisfield Primary, The Basin School program continues to coordinated by an experienced Primary, Bairnsdale West Primary, provide hundreds of school VIT-registered secondary teacher, Upwey Primary, Kensington children with the opportunity to who delivered the required Primary and Greenslopes Primary. discover the benefits of healthy curriculum. AFL Victoria staff More than 350 school children exercise and good food choices continue to provide the practical participated in and enjoyed through a partnership between industry experience and training the program, with feedback the club, the AFL, AFL Victoria in the delivery of AFL Victoria from teachers and children and Victoria University. A total of development programs. extremely positive. 24 schools in the western region Programs were established in We would like to thank the of Melbourne participated in the Sunshine, Northcote, Montmorency, principals, teachers and children program, which aimed to help the Oakleigh and Frankston, and it is for assisting AFL Victoria and Western Bulldogs achieve greater anticipated that another three will ‘Go for your life’ with the pilot.

afl victoria annual review 2009 53 AFL KICKSTART aims to bridge these gaps by AFL PLAYER INDIGENOUS PROGRAM bringing clubs, coaching and APPEARANCES Leon Egan development staff, talented boys Keith Burns KickStart Indigenous and their families/communities Programs Coordinator Development Manager together, and formulating solutions to existing challenges. If talented young footballers can The AFL Player Appearances The overriding objective of the be educated at the age of 12 or Program involves AFL players KickStart Indigenous Program 13 as to exactly what is required visiting schools, NAB AFL Auskick continues to be to promote to reach TAC Cup level, they will clinics, local clubs and community participation, health, education have time to decide whether groups throughout Victoria. These and employment in Victorian to pursue this avenue and be promotional activities are a vital Indigenous communities. able to begin the necessary component of both the AFL’s preparation with their families and AFL Victoria’s grassroots Indigenous Auskick centres and communities. development strategy. In 2009, a new centre with As part of the Collective 15 participants opened in the KickStart Talent Program Bargaining Agreement between the small Indigenous community of Following selection of the final AFL and AFL Players’ Association, Framlingham, located just north squad of 25 from the 2008 AFL every AFL player is committed to of Warrnambool. Additionally, a KickStart Camp, 25 teenagers conduct 21 half-day appearances move was made to re-establish a from across the country travelled – six allocated to the AFL and foothold in Swan Hill, with a pilot to Papua New Guinea earlier delivered by AFL Victoria, and 15 program operating in preparation in 2009 as part of the annual allocated to the player’s AFL club. for a permanent presence in 2010. Indigenous Youth Tour. The This demonstrates the commitment The two initiatives complemented program then saw a new group of all parties to make AFL players the work already being of Victorian youngsters embark available to promote the game. undertaken in the existing centres on this challenging, yet rewarding With the support of AFL clubs, of Bairnsdale West Primary process, which began with the AFL players visited Melbourne’s School (35 student participants), state KickStart camp in Parkville metropolitan area and outer Nowa Nowa Primary School (32), for 22 boys from July 1-3. Eight suburbs, Geelong and regional Echuca (34), the Fitzroy Stars nominees were subsequently centres. Players were involved Football Club (34) and Rumbalara chosen to attend the national for 10,728 hours in 2009, an Football Club (24). In all, more Qantas AFL KickStart Camp increase on the 2008 figure of than 174 Indigenous youngsters (August 18-23), playing an 10,387 hours and the 2007 figure across the state took part in the AFL curtain-raiser prior to the of 9868 hours. AFL Victoria Indigenous Auskick Richmond-Hawthorn match in Centres program. Once again, round 21. After this, the overall Metropolitan and Geelong the chance to compete at half- squad of 50 was again reduced AFL player appearances time of the Richmond-Essendon to 25, with four Victorians chosen In the metropolitan area and Dreamtime at the ’G clash during for the 2010 Indigenous Youth Geelong, AFL clubs are allocated AFL Indigenous Round proved a Tour to South Africa. a region to conduct the following huge attraction, with 96 students AFL Player Appearance programs: from across the state making the Leadership Program pp Primary schools: Schools trip to the MCG on May 23. In conjunction with AFL are allocated two days that Indigenous Program Manager are coordinated by region Community Linking Program Jason Mifsud and the Victorian development managers, usually The Community Linking Program Aboriginal Education Association early in the season. Schools remains an important aspect Incorporated (VAEAI), AFL have the option of utilising the of AFL Victoria’s Indigenous Victoria is in the process of AFL player to either participate strategy, and is earmarked revamping its Indigenous in classroom activities, role for enhancement in 2010 and Leadership Program, which is model programs, a clinic beyond. At present the number delivered to Koori secondary or school training. In 2009, of Indigenous teenagers in the school students using Indigenous primary schools utilised 3398 TAC Cup system is relatively low AFL stars as role models. The appearance hours with 445 AFL due to factors such as cultural mission of promoting leadership, players. understanding, communication, goal-setting and teamwork is set pp Secondary schools: region travel distance, social issues to be enhanced with a renewed development managers allocate and club expectations. The focus on educational content AFL players to either participate Community Linking Program and outcomes. in physical education lessons,

54 afl victoria annual review 2009 female football Chyloe Kurdas Female Football Development Manager

In a heartening sign for the future of women’s and girls’ football, in 2009 female participation enjoyed the highest growth of any AFL Victoria program.

Fair Game: Respect Matters program The valuable role that women and girls play both on and off the football field is highly regarded by AFL Victoria. In 2009, the Fair Game: Respect Matters program was delivered to the Northern Football League (NFL) under the umbrella of the AFL’s Respect and Responsibility policy. The program, funded by VicHealth, saw two- thirds of NFL clubs receive ongoing training and support in reviewing and adapting their policies to make their environments more inclusive, safe and supportive for women and girls. With backing from AFL Victoria and La Trobe Hawthorn’s (left) and conduct a clinic as part of the AFL Player University, clubs have identified Appearances Program, which involves players visiting schools, Auskick centres and clubs Fair Game drivers, assisting them throughout Victoria. to implement relevant goals. leadership programs, clinics during the school holidays. In or school training. In 2009, 2009, 375 AFL players logged NAB AFL Auskick secondary schools utilised 700 appearance hours at To encourage increased female 732 appearance hours with various superclinics. participation in NAB AFL Auskick, 329 AFL players. in 2009 AFL Victoria implemented pp NAB AFL Auskick: AFL clubs also Country AFL player appearances poster displays at all centres across allocated their players specific Each AFL club selects a day when the state. By the end of the year days to attend NAB AFL Auskick its entire playing list visits a regional there was a 20 per cent rise in girls centres. In 2009, 392 AFL location to conduct Australian taking part, bringing their total players logged 934 appearance Football promotions coordinated number to 3862. Young females hours at AFL Auskick centres. by country region development now make up 7.8 per cent of all pp Junior club program: AFL managers and supported by local NAB AFL Auskick participants in coaches select a date to free clubs. The AFL players either Victoria, up from 6.9 per cent in up players to visit junior clubs go into school classrooms and 2008. Continuing to drive similar that have accepted an invitation playgrounds or are involved in increases remains a priority of AFL made through the region clinics conducted at a central Victoria, with further development development managers. In 2009, venue. AFL Community Camps are initiatives to be introduced in 2010. 398 AFL players logged 908 also conducted by AFL clubs in appearance hours at country regions during February Primary school football junior clubs. each year. In 2009, 396 AFL players For the fifth straight year, AFL pp Superclinics: NAB AFL Auskick logged 3200 appearance hours at Victoria and the Victorian Primary children are invited to attend more than 50 country towns. The Schools’ Sports Association a superclinic conducted at a AFL players used planes, buses (VPSSA) conducted the Girls’ Skill central location or at an AFL or their own cars to travel to each Development and Competition club training venue, mostly country town. Program in Victorian primary

afl victoria annual review 2009 55 Victorian under-18 captain prepares to dish off a handball during the 2009 Victorian Youth Girls Championships at the MCG. Photo: Emma Phillips

56 afl victoria annual review 2009 schools. A four-week skill Young females now Secondary school football development program for Grade “make up 7.8 per cent Once again, secondary school 5 and 6 girls was complemented of all NAB AFL Auskick girls were provided the chance to by a teacher training program participate in various competitions and state-wide primary school participants in Victoria, and skill development clinics. girls football competition. In up from 6.9 per cent Competitions involving the 2009, 2350 girls from 94 regional in 2008. Continuing to Victorian Secondary Schools’ and metropolitan schools were drive similar increases Sports Association (VSSSA), Girls involved in the competition, Sport Victoria (GSV), the Catholic representing a 15 per cent increase remains a priority of All Schools Sports Association from 2008. Additionally, more AFL Victoria, with and other independent schools than 3000 primary school girls further development attracted 13,850 players and participated in VPSSA mixed-sex initiatives to be included a new six-week, 14-team competitions. introduced in 2010. GSV competition called Friday Night Footy. Junior community football ” AFL Victoria also ran 55 As a stepping stone from NAB the Metropolitan Boys Junior clinics reaching 1500 girls AFL Auskick, local leagues across Championships, demonstrating this year, and in conjunction Victoria coordinated mixed junior Youth Girls’ heightened integration with School Sport Victoria, community football competitions into Victorian football. established the Victorian under-16 for girls. In keeping with the recent For the third straight year, schoolgirls representative team trend of record participation rates, the Footy Pak South Eastern that participated in the School 779 girls played junior football in Youth Girls team triumphed, Sport Australia championships. 2009, an increase of 16 per cent defeating the Western side in Significantly, this was the first from 2008. An information session the Grand Final. time a girls representative football was also held for girls nearing the The third Under-18 Youth Girls program had been run at the age of 14 and no longer able to Interstate Challenge was held championships, with Queensland play in mixed junior competitions, in Queensland in 2009, with and Western Australia also detailing the transition to AFL the Victorians maintaining their competing. Victoria’s Youth Girls leagues. perfect record by winning both games and another title. Victorian Women’s Football Youth Girls community football In its second year, the AFL League (VWFL) AFL Victoria’s Youth Girls Victoria Youth Girls Academy again The VWFL was established in 1981 competition, specifically designed received great support from the and is open to females aged 15 and for girls aged 13-18, emphasises , providing over. In 2009, the league attracted fun, fitness and friendship in a opportunities for 35 of the most 913 players across 28 teams and family-friendly environment. promising young female footballers four competitions, marking a four Managed by AFL Victoria and and 10 of the most promising per cent increase in participant supported by local councils and young female field umpires in numbers from 2008. the AFL since 2004, Youth Girls the state. The academy program As well as developing a features community football included sessions with Geelong skill partnership with the Melbourne competitions across Melbourne, acquisition coach David Wheadon, Football Club, the VWFL operated Geelong and Bendigo. In 2009, a Essendon assistant coach Gary a talent-based academy during the fifth and sixth competition were O’Donnell and Bombers star Angus early part of 2009 to underpin its added in eastern Melbourne and Monfries. Off-field development selection process for the National Geelong respectively, increasing sessions in 2009 targeted Championships. The 50 players participant numbers by 30 per understanding cultural diversity, involved were given coaching cent. In total, there were 686 girls financial management, sports sessions by former AFL players participating across 32 teams. psychology and public speaking, , Steve Alessio The Youth Girls talented with academy members also and Jason McCartney. Player player pathway provides exciting required to complete four hours of appearances at NAB AFL Auskick interleague and Victorian community service. centres were a highlight of the representative opportunities. At the 2009 Sport and academy program. In 2009, the Northern team was Recreation Victoria Awards, The Victorian women’s team added to the Under-18 Youth AFL Victoria’s Youth Girls defeated Western Australia to take Girls Championships, so that a Academy was acknowledged home its 16th consecutive title at total of four teams competed in for its work, winning the Sport the 2009 AFL Women’s National the carnival. This coincided with and Education category. Championships.

afl victoria annual review 2009 57 resources available at afl victoria

The many invaluable resources football club details how to write and spectators that has been available from AFL Victoria are a grant submission and includes distributed to all leagues and clubs. outlined below. All listed prices handy tips on how to access include GST and postage and funding. THE COACH – $15 handling. Level One senior manual that sets TACKLING VOLUNTEERS out guidelines for the preparation CLUB MANAGEMENT KIT – $25 PROGRAM – $15 and coaching of senior footballers. Developed by the AFL in An innovative program designed conjunction with the Australian to assist clubs with their AFL YOUTH COACHING Sports Commission after extensive recruitment of volunteers, which MANUAL – $25 consultation with football league includes links to the Volunteer Level One youth manual for and club volunteer administrators Resource Centre. coaching adolescents – includes who identified priority areas of club planning, communication, team operations. The club management THE CLUB – $30 play and skills. kit contains the following club A resource that covers all aspects management manuals: of running a community football AFL JUNIOR COACHING pp Financial management; club, including football operations, MANUAL – $25 pp Club planning; fundraising, club structure and The junior manual is for Auskick pp Risk management; financial management.T he CD and junior (under-nine-12) coaches pp Volunteer management; contains links to external websites and focuses on skills, games and pp Junior development; and for more detailed information, the role of the coach. pp Community partnerships. along with standard templates such as job descriptions and sponsor CONTACT SKILLS DVD – $25 VOLUNTEERS FOR FOOTBALL proposals that clubs can adopt and Appropriate for both junior and CD ROM – $25 tailor to their own needs. senior levels, this DVD includes Packed with ideas about how sections on tackling, fending, to manage local football club BOUNCING RACISM OUT OF smothering and bumping. volunteers, this CD includes detailed SPORT (BROOS) – $25 job descriptions for every club role, The BROOS program consists of SENIOR COACH’S DIARY – $25 along with volunteer recruitment a set of user-friendly resources More than 300 pages of detailed programs, club organisation charts, designed to assist leagues and templates for planning, preparing the legislation protecting volunteers, clubs to create a more tolerant and recording your every move. A web links, and a volunteer football environment and complete record of your season. promotion video clip and remove any potential barriers recruitment poster. to participation. The program JUNIOR COACH’S DIARY – $20 includes a guidelines booklet, More than 200 pages of detailed GRANT FUNDING GUIDE – $15 sample league and club social and templates for planning, preparing This easy step-by-step guide to religious tolerance policies and a and recording your every move. applying for grant funding for your DVD/video for players, officials A complete record of your season.

TO ORDER Visit AFL Victoria’s website aflvic.com.au go to the Getting Involved menu and then ‘Resources’.

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The TAC Cup’s 2009 fitness testing day put prospective players through their paces. The above photo sequence (1-4) captures one player’s attempt at the vertical leap.

KICK LEFT, KICK RIGHT, JUNIOR COACHING TRAIN SMART DVD – $25 VCE RESOURCE – $30 CARDS – $40 Appropriate for both junior Coordinated use of video This series of lesson cards and senior levels, this DVD and manual, including contains training activities highlights training activities skill development, fault and physical education from warm-ups through detection, drills, ready-to- sessions sequentially to game-sense games and copy worksheets, body arranged for players aged full-ground drills. systems, skill acquisition five-12. and biomechanics.

afl victoria annual review 2009 59 community football results

COUNTRY FOOTBALL WorkSafe Victorian Country Football League 2009 Grand Final results

Alberton FL Hampton FNL Omeo District FL Stony Creek 14.10 (94) d Koroit 19.7 (121) d Swan Reach 25.19 (169) d Wonthaggi Power 11.14 (80) Warrnambool 11.16 (82) Swifts Creek 21.7 (133) Ballarat FL Heathcote District FL Ovens & King FL Redan 13.13 (91) d Heathcote 15.17 (107) d Tarrawingee 8.8 (56) d East Point 6.12 (48) Colbinabbin 15.13 (103) Glenrowan 5.5 (35) Bellarine FL Horsham District FL Ovens & Murray FL Drysdale 15.18 (108) d Kalkee 20.13 (133) d 22.13 (145) d Geelong Amateur 13.12 (90) Harrow Balmoral 7.6 (48) Yarrawonga 9.14 (68) Benalla & District FNL Kyabram District FL Peninsula FL Bonnie Doon 19.12 (126) d Undera 16.13 (109) d Seaford 21.18 (144) d Swanpool 4.9 (33) Nagambie 13.14 (92) Edithvale-Aspendale 12.15 (87) Bendigo FL Lexton Plains FL Picola & District North West Golden Square 16.12 (108) d Skipton 17.9 (111) d Jerilderie 9.14 (68) d South Bendigo 10.11 (71) Carngham Linton 10.9 (69) Berrigan 8.17 (65) Casey Cardina FL Loddon Valley FL Picola & District South East Pakenham 15.14 (104) d Mitiamo 22.11 (143) d Tungamah 11.15 (81) d Doveton 6.10 (46) Calivil United 12.13 (85) Shepparton East 5.12 (42) Central Highlands FL Mallee FL South West District FNL Daylesford 10.12 (72) d Sea Lake-Nandaly Tigers 19.19 (133) Coleraine 11.13 (79) d Hepburn 9.13 (67) d Ouyen United 14.16 (100) Westerns 4.8 (32) Central Murray FL Maryborough Castlemaine Sunraysia FL Balranald 20.14 (134) d District FL Wentworth 24.19 (163) d Kerang 11.12 (78) Newstead 11.16 (82) d Robinvale 10.10 (70) Dunolly 10.13 (73) Colac & District FNL Tallangatta & District FL Irrewarra-Beeac 17.18 (120) d Mid Gippsland FL Tallangatta 13.10 (88) d Birregurra 10.8 (68) Trafalgar 16.8 (104) d Beechworth 8.15 (63) Morwell East 7.5 (47) East Gippsland FNL Upper Murray FNL Bairnsdale 13.16 (94) d Millewa FL Bullioh 12.9 (81) d Wy Yung 9.11 (65) Bambill 13.14 (92) d Tumbarumba 7.14 (56) Gol Gol 11.5 (71) Ellinbank & District FL Warrnambool & District FNL Nilma Darnum 17.7 (109) d Mininera & District FL Kolora-Noorat 12.11 (83) d Cora Lynn 10.14 (74) Penshurst 11.12 (78) d Timboon Demons 5.3 (33) Tatyoon 6.17 (53) Geelong & District FL West Gippsland Latrobe FL East Geelong 13.13 (91) d Mornington Peninsula Nepean FL Maffra 7.27 (69) d Bell Post Hill 10.10 (70) Frankston 13.18 (96) d Traralgon 9.12 (66) Sorrento 8.11 (59) Geelong FL Western Border FL South Barwon 15.12 (102) d Murray FL South Gambier 12.11 (83) d St Joseph’s 6.9 (45) Tocumwal 16.10 (106) d East Gambier 9.12 (66) Moama 15.10 (100) Golden Rivers FL Wimmera FL Wandella 12.15 (87) d North Central FL Horsham 16.14 (110) d Murrabit 10.14 (74) Charlton 11.11 (77) d Warrack Eagles 13.8 (86) Donald 9.11 (65) Goulburn Valley FL Yarra Valley Mountain District FL Mansfield 16.12 (108) d North Gippsland FNL Upwey Tecoma 17.14 (116) d Kyabram 13.9 (87) Heyfield 15.13 (103) d Woori Yallock 12.13 (85) Churchill 10.14 (74)

VCFL Representative Matches VCFL 13.10 (88) d 2009 David Code Medal VAFA (C-D4 sections) 2.8 (20) Chris Iriving, Seaford FC, Mornington Peninsula Nepean FL VCFL (Major Leagues) 17.8 (110) d 2009 Bob Templeton Medal VAFA (A & B Sections) 15.16 (106) Adrian Dohnt, Lockington Bamawm United FC, Heathcote District FL

60 afl victoria annual review 2009 METROPOLITAN FOOTBALL 2009 Grand Final Results Eastern Fl Riddell District Fl (B Section) (Div 1) Lancefield 16.14 (110) d Old Melburnians 18.21 (129) d Vermont 18.14 (122) d Romsey 14.12 (96) Old Trinity 12.11 (83) Croydon 11.12 (78) Melton Centrals 12.14 (86) d (C Section) (Div 2) Wallan 8.8 (56) MHSOB 18.18 (126) d South Croydon 14.16 (100) d (U-18) Oakleigh 11.17 (83) Mulgrave 12.19 (91) Woodend/Hesket 16.10 (106) d (D1 Section) (Div 3) Kilmore 15.10 (100) Rupertswood 12.18 (90) d Mooroolbark 14.17 (101) d Fitzroy 9.11 (65) Upper Ferntree Gully 6.10 (46) Southern Fl (D2 Section) (Div 4) (Div 1) Williamstown 15.9 (99) d Chirnside Park 18.19 (127) d St Kilda City 19.12 (126) d Peninsula 9.18 (72) Kilsyth 8.15 (63) Chelsea Heights 12.12 (84) (D3 Section) (Div 2) Bentleigh 13.23 (101) d Essendon District Fl Heatherton 10.11 (71) d St Mary’s Sal 10.18 (78) (A Grade) South Yarra 8.8 (56) (D4 Section) Maribyrnong Park 14.18 (102) d (Div 3) La Trobe Uni 21.9 (135) d Greenvale 13.6 (84) Skye 12.9 (81) d Albert Park 8.11 (59) (B Grade) Mt Waverley 9.12 (66) Oak Park 19.24 (138) d Victorian Women’s Fl Pascoe Vale 10.4 (64) Western Region Fl (Premier) (Div 1) Darebin 10.14 (74) d Northern Fl Spotswood 13.13 (91) d Diamond Creek 4.6 (30) (Div 1) Port Melbourne Colts 10.13 (73) (Premier Reserves) Heidelberg 19.17 (131) d (Div 2) Darebin 9.13 (67) d Bundoora 10.7 (67) Deer Park 16.12 (108) d St Kilda 3.3 (21) (Div 2) Parkside 13.9 (87) (North West) Macleod 13.23 (101) d Sunbury 7.9 (51) d Whittlesea 11.11 (77) VAFA Lalor Park Stars 4.3 (27) (Div 3) (A Section) (South East) Parkside 12.9 (81) d Old Xaverians 9.6 (60) d Scoresby Magpies 3.6 (24) d Hurstbridge 8.17 (65) De La Salle 8.9 (57) Parkdale 0.6 (6)

JUNIOR LEAGUE 2009 Grand Final Results Dandenong & District JFL (U-16) Moorabbin Saints JFL (U-17 Div 1) Yarra JFL (Colts 1) Beaconsfield Blue 7.13 (55) d Cheltenham 11.8 (74) d Preston Bullants 11.9 (75) d Berwick White 7.10 (52) St Peters 10.8 (68) St Marys 8.12 (60)

NAB AFL UNDER-18 CHAMPIONSHIPS Western Australia 16.14 (110) d Vic Country 13.10 (88) d Vic Country 12.13 (85) d Vic Country 9.8 (62) Northern Territory 5.6 (36) Tasmania 10.11 (71) South Australia 10.13 (73) d South Australia 16.9 (105) d Vic Metro 24.16 (160) d Vic Metro 9.7 (61) Vic Country 7.12 (54) NSW/ACT 8.1 (49) Vic Metro 8.7 (55) d Western Australia 21.6 (132) d Vic Country 14.6 (90) d QLD 7.7 (49) Vic Metro 10.9 (69) Vic Metro 11.8 (74)

NAB AFL UNDER-16 CHAMPIONSHIPS Vic Country 11.16 (82) d Vic Metro 11.8 (74) d Vic Country 12.7 (79) d South Australia 4.8 (32) Western Australia 8.11 (59) Western Australia 8.6 (54) Vic Country 13.8 (86) d South Australia 11.15 (81) d Vic Country 13.12 (90) d South Australia 5.6 (36) Vic Metro 6.6 (42) Vic Metro 4.6 (30)

NAB AFL UNDER-18 ALL-AUSTRALIAN PLAYERS Ben Cunnington Geelong Falcons Dustin Martin Bendigo Pioneers Tom Scully Dandenong Stingrays Andrew Hooper North Ballarat Gary Rohan Geelong Falcons Daniel Talia Calder Cannons Rebels Josh Toy Calder Cannons

AIS-AFL ACADEMY MEMBERS Northern Knights Tim Golds Oakleigh Chargers Eastern Ranges Tomas Bugg Gippsland Power Sam Gordon Geelong Falcons Dandenong Stingrays Michael Bussey Eastern Ranges Bendigo Pioneers Adam Trelor Dandenong Stingrays Piers Flanagan Geelong Falcons Northern Knights Darcy Watchorn North Ballarat Rebels Oakleigh Chargers Luke Parker Dandenong Stingrays Eastern Ranges

afl victoria annual review 2009 61 afl victoria people As at December, 2009

AFL VICTORIA Yarra Junior FL Development North East Border HEADQUARTERS Bob Rennison Administration Support (Wangaratta) GPO Box 4337 Victorian Women’s FL Samantha Lee Zac Guilfoyle MELBOURNE, VIC 3001 R&R Project Officer East Gippsland Rob Reid Phone: (03) 8663 3000 Katrina O’Donnell Fax: (03) 9650 4194 AFL VICTORIA Multicultural Football Metro Regions Website: aflvic.com.au ADMINISTRATION Project Coordinator North West Chief Executive Officer Nick Hatzoglou Len Villani PATRON IN CHIEF Peter Schwab Multicultural Officer Outer Southern/Peninsula Premier John Brumby Executive Assistant to CEO Western Region Mark Wheeler Silvana Hurst TBA Eastern Shawn Wilkey AFL VICTORIA BOARD Financial Controller Multicultural Officer South Northern Ashley Brown/ Grant O’Riley (Chairman) Stephen Smith East Region Phiv Demetriou Peter Schwab (CEO) Marketing Manager Michael Nguyen Central East Mark Smart Geoff Almond Peter Harley Multicultural Officer Central Inner Southern Gary Brown Nicholas Bourke Marketing Officer East Region Michael Roberts Western Graeme Pratt Andrew Dillon Jennifer Pryor Multicultural Officer David Doherty OAM Receptionist Sarah Murphy Northern Region VFL TRIBUNAL MEMBERS Stephen Jones Partnerships and Harmit Singh Edward Power (Chairman) John Jordan SC Communications Multicultural Officer Barry Josephs Ray Gunston Coordinator Kaylee George North West Region (Vice-Chairman) David Matthews Football Operations Eder-Luiz Martins David Wood Manager John Hook Sam Cusumano AFL VICTORIA High Performance Manager TAC CUP REGION Brian Chaplin DEVELOPMENT Anton Grbac MANAGERS Diana Taylor ADVISORY BOARD High Performance Manager Bendigo Pioneers Ray Byrne Sam Chadwick David Doherty (Chairman) OAM Leon Harris Calder Cannons Ian Kyte John Russo Geoff Almond Football Operations Assistant Dandenong Stingrays Tim Bourke John Doherty Sophie Timms Darren Flanigan Rick Lewis Ian Hamm Football Operations Eastern Ranges Sal Perna Derek Humphery-Smith Administration Officer Anthony Parkin Brad Ostemeyer Sam Coen Geelong Falcons VFL APPEALS Peter Schwab State Director of Umpiring Michael Turner Ian Hill QC (Chairman) Diana Taylor Kevin Mitchell Gippsland Power Peter Weightman Umpiring Assistant Peter Francis Greg Meese AFL VICTORIA MEMBERS Angela Lindsay Greater Western Sydney John Larkins Bendigo Bombers David Joss Manager – Development and Lachlan Buszard Sal Perna Box Hill Hawks John Ure Planning Michael Daniher Murray Bushrangers Rick Lewis Casey Scorpions Community Football Andrew Carson John Russo John Sharkie Development Manager North Ballarat Rebels Coburg Tigers Bill Balakis Peter McDougall Phil Partington VFL INVESTIGATIONS/ Collingwood Geoff Walsh Club Development Manager Northern Knights REPORTING OFFICER Frankston John Barry Darryl Collings Peter Kennedy Rick Lewis Gold Coast Bob Batty Community Football Oakleigh Chargers North Ballarat Peter Wilson Administration Assistant Stephen Conole UMPIRE ADVOCATES Northern Bullants Holly Lunt Sandringham Dragons Nick Carmichael Stephen Papal Footyweb Manager Ryan O’Connor Craig Shiell Port Melbourne Peter Saultry Stephen Stewart Western Jets Shane Sexton Sandringham Gerard Ryan Coaching Development PLAYER ADVOCATES Werribee Tigers John Nicol Manager Steve Teakel AFL VICTORIA REGION Ian Findlay Williamstown Trevor Monti Schools Development DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS Howard Beer VCFL Nicholas Rolfe Manager Country Regions Sean Audley VAFA Bruno Conti Trevor Robertson North Ballarat Tim Shearer Scott Bell Northern FL Ron Bongetti Umpire Development Wimmera Geoff Burdett David Reilly Eastern FL Graham Halbish Manager South West Jock Whiting Essendon District FL Neville Nash Bendigo Tony McNamara AUDITOR Ian Price Programs Coordinator North Central and Central KPMG Riddell District FL Keith Burns Murray Trevor Mellington Alan Matthews Female Football Sunraysia/Mallee HONORARY SOLICITORS Southern FL David Andrew Development Manager Trevor Ryan Messrs. Mahoney, Western Region FL Chyloe Kurdas Geelong John Edsall Galvin & Rylah Diana Taylor KickStart Indigenous Hampden Alan Thompson Dandenong & District JFL Development Manager Goulburn Murray VALE Ron McConnell Leon Egan Greg Liddell Frank Rosbrook Moorabbin Saints JFL State Auskick Manager North East Border Peter Stedwell David Andrews Michael Stinear Jeff Chandler Ted Saultry Waverley Junior FA Development Receptionist Paul Newton Ellie Campbell

62 afl victoria annual review 2009 structure of australian football

As at February, 2010

AFL

WAFC SANFL AFL TASMANIA AFL VICTORIA AFL NSW/ACT AFL QLD AFL NT

MEMBERSHIP CLUB LICENCE AGREEMENTS AGREEMENTS

community football

VFL TAC CUP *DDJFL *NFL *EFL *EDFL victorian *MSJFL country football *RDFL league 71,750 *SFL *VAFA *Wmsfl *WRFL metro *VWFL football leagues *YJFL 64,400

AFL Victoria Development activities NAB afl Auskick community Umpire COACH recreational multi- Schools fair game – afl player Communities female indigenous program development EDUCATION football cultural 109,775 respect matters appearances 49,040 Children

* DDJ FL – Dandenong & District Junior * RDFL – Riddell District Football League * WRFL – Western Region Football League Football League * SFL – Southern Football League * VWFL – Victorian Women’s Football League * NFL – Northern Football League * VAFA – Victorian Amateur Football Association * YJFL – Yarra Junior Football League * EFL – Eastern Football League * WMSFL – Victorian Masters Superrules * EDFL – Essendon District Football League Football League * MSJFL – Moorabbin Saints Junior Football League

afl victoria annual review 2009 63 FOOTBALL VICTORIA LTD ACN 004 246 253 MCG, Brunton Avenue, Jolimont VIC 3002 Produced by The Slattery Media Group for Football Victoria