CONTENTS

AFL Strategic Plan 4 Chairman’s Report 6 Board of Directors 10 Advisory Board 11 CEO’s Report 12 VFL Report 16 TAC Cup Report 22 Victorian Competition Graduates to the AFL 26 Umpiring Report 28 Financial Report 30 Administration & Regional Staff 32 Marketing Report 38 Sponsors 39

Female Participation: 46 Youth Girls players participated in the Youth Girls Academy and there are now 39 teams across six competitions.

2 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 AFL Victoria Development Development 40 Community Football 43 Multicultural Football 47 Coach Education 49 AFL Recreational Football 51 Schools Programs 52 NAB AFL Auskick 55 Female Football 57 Umpire Development 59 AFL Player Appearances 61 AFL Kickstart Indigenous Program 62 Fair Game, Respect Matters 64 Resources Available at AFL Victoria 65 AFL Victoria People 66 Structure of Australian Football 67

ANNUAL REVIEW 2010

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 3 AFL VICTORIA STRATEGIC PLAN

During 2009 the strategic plan was OUR VALUES PROGRESSIVE reviewed and updated with the 2010– ACCOUNTABILITY • Strive for constant improvement 2011 Strategic Plan adopted by the AFL • Focus on delivering or exceeding • Respect the great history of our game Victoria Board. performance objectives and its role in the community but challenge the status quo OUR VISION • Responsible for our actions and results • Find new and creative ideas to innovate To be the best state-based sporting and do what we say we will • Focus on the future organisation in . • Act with integrity – deal with all people honestly, ethically and transparently • Embrace change and new ideas OUR MISSION • No surprises • Create football environments that To sustain and grow Australian Football • Make decisions in a timely manner deliver safe, enjoyable and rewarding as the most played, watched and even when under tight deadlines and experiences attended sport across Victoria for the pressure • Contribute to the health and wellbeing benefit and enjoyment of participants, • Be prepared to go the extra mile of communities stakeholders and supporters, while • Persevere when faced with setbacks RESPECTFUL making a meaningful contribution to the • Promote improved environmental • Embrace and respect diversity and health and wellbeing of all communities sustainability performance at all levels inclusion – understand and value the throughout Victoria. of football and community difference in every person

4 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 • Acknowledge the efforts of others OBJECTIVES and promote responsible environment • Listen intently and consider other 1. Participation sustainability awareness through football viewpoints To grow participation through quality 5. Engagement • Help team or other departments or pathways connecting all segments from To utilise Australian Football as a vehicle stakeholders in getting work done AFL Auskick to open-age football to promote healthy lifestyles, cultural • Act with humility and modesty 2. Community diversity, education, employment, safe • Work collaboratively with and among To support members, motivate and and inclusive environments through collegues, members, constituents and nurture volunteers and promote quality communities stakeholders football environments 6. Fans 3. Talent and Second Tier To build relationships with the community To deliver a talented player pathway to develop fans of the game that attracts and develops the best 7. Governance and Management Overwhelming Support: Crowd figures and general participants and enhances the TAC Cup To implement quality governance, competition standards continued to surge, another and VFL competitions management and financial models to healthy indicator for the state of our game. 4. Facilities and Environment optimise AFL Victoria’s assets and attract To provide and maintain essential facilities and retain talented people

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 5 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT THE FUTURE OF FOOTBALL

GRANT O’RILEY AFL VICTORIA CHAIRMAN

As the curtain falls on 2010 we can with the growth of the Youth Girls continued development of the talent and reflect upon a year that underscored Football League, has seen more and community pathways in Victoria. more people than ever before embrace the strength, development, success and VFL continued change of Victorian football. our game. During the past 12 months there has Many key performance indicators – Projects are in place to continue society’s been continued focus on the VFL participation numbers, crowds and integration at all levels, particularly from competition by considering its future profile - produced positive results grass roots upwards. development needs, structural options, and genuine enthusiasm for the future As we move forward the task of funding models and facility requirements. challenges we face. managing such change is going to be This process has been undertaken by Our great game continues to evolve even greater and therefore will require the AFL Victoria Board in conjunction at considerable speed and with its focussed planning so as we can create with club input and has produced a progression comes an unswerving need our future without limitations. pleasing outcome whereby everyone is to keep pace both on and off the field It has been pleasing to have stability focussed on creating a viable, long term with all associated issues. within the AFL Victoria Board and the State League competition. Planning for football’s future is a never Certainly, there was much to garner ending charter. from season 2010, a year where interest Clearly, our relationship with the AFL “Our great game continues to surged thanks to the AFL debuts of continues to prosper. The exceptional evolve at considerable speed and and , support from within the AFL, across a with its progression comes an two highly decorated VFL players. raft of areas, is much appreciated. Such interest flowed over to attendance Without doubt a highlight late in 2010 unswerving need to keep pace as fans recognised a competition that was the success we experienced at both on and off the field with all again lifted its status to new heights. the NAB AFL Draft with AFL Victoria The introduction of to achieving its best result in recent times associated issues. the competition in 2010 created much with nearly 60% of the draft numbers Planning for football’s future is a interest and expanded the exposure of originating from our state. This result never ending charter. ” the VFL as far north as Cairns throughout is a credit to our High Performance the season. Managers, Regional Mangers and all Congratulations to coach Gerard associated with the talent pathways benefits of this are now becoming Fitzgerald and all involved in the VFL through the TAC Cup and VFL evident and this will continue to enhance team that travelled to West Australia and competitions. the support we can provide to aid the comprehensively defeated the WAFL. It During 2010 AFL Victoria struck a growth and development of the game. reinforced Victoria’s position as the best memorandum of understanding with the The 2010 year has seen a range of State League competition in the country. AFL Marketing department for the supply strategies developed and undertaken North ’s Stephen Clifton and Port of marketing development opportunities that have enabled AFL Victoria to move ’s were worthy and event management support. This closer and gain greater insights into co-winners of the JJ Liston Trophy, arrangement continues to develop with competitions and community leagues in recognising the fairest and best player in pleasing results at this early stage. order to support them appropriately for the VFL. Football’s traditional landscape is the future. Williamstown full forward Matthew Little now virtually unrecognisable from a We are also at the early stages of claimed the Jim ‘Frosty’ Miller Medal for participation perspective. Multicultural internally considering what our support the competition’s leading goal kicker. development and the continued and operational structure could The return to a traditional Sunday emergence of female football, particularly look like for the future to ensure the

6 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 Pathway: player Andrew McInnes was just one of the many TAC graduates selected in the 2010 NAB AFL National Draft.

afternoon VFL Grand Final saw a spike stand alone VFL clubs, stand alone AFL hurdles to emerge triumphant in the AFL in the crowd who witnessed North clubs, aligned clubs and partially aligned Under 18 National Championships. Many Ballarat accomplish a third successive clubs. of those players as well as those who premiership, a truly outstanding represented Vic Metro featured in the TAC CUP performance. NAB AFL National Rookie Draft. Once again the TAC Cup proved the best AFL Victoria continues to investigate Congratulations to on football nursery in the country. competition enhancements, particularly its TAC Cup premiership, the club’s About 60 percent of players selected regarding the interchange bench size in sixth flag in the past 10 seasons. Not in the 2010 NAB AFL National Draft the VFL seniors and reserves. surprisingly, many Cannons players were were TAC Cup graduates, a ringing As we move forward we will continue to drafted. endorsement of Victoria’s talented player research and develop the competition The introduction of Greater Western pathway. so a long term viable structure can be Sydney to the TAC Cup for season 2010 Vic Country overcame many logistical implemented that will accommodate added to the competition’s status and

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 7 Moving on: Outgoing AFL Victoria CEO Peter Schwab at the Liston Trophy.

8 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

profile while providing players with a taste We will continue to work closely with Particularly, AFL Victoria would like to of preparing and travelling interstate to VWFL to ensure the appropriate recognise the Department of Planning play football. development and focus is afforded to this and Community Development, Ford, Sincere thanks again to Janet Dore crucial arm of the game. Vic Health, the Melbourne Club and the team at the Transport Foundation, the Department of Justice Facilities Development Accident Commission for its continued and ‘Go for your life’ for their commitment Along with the support of the AFL, the sponsorship. The TAC has been involved to Victorian football. State Government and respective local with the competition since its inception councils, the facilities development Adminstration Headquarters nineteen seasons ago. It is a wonderful program continues. Throughout the year a feasibility study association and we are very proud of it. There has been a range of facilities was conducted in relation to our academy Community Football completed in the past 12 months, development, administration and office Relationships with community leagues headlined by the opening of Highgate requirements in regard to where our and the community at large have never Recreation Reserve, Craigieburn. The future headquarters should be located. been better. state-of-the-art facilities and ground is What was concluded was that a move As part of the community focus in 2010 used by Coburg Tigers, Calder Cannons of AFL Victoria’s administration from the there was an outer eastern corridor and community football. MCG to Visy Park Carlton would better review to investigate the viability and Many other projects to service VFL, cater for our needs. This move was structure of football in the area which TAC and community leagues are on the completed just before the New Year. provided pleasing results. drawing board for 2011 and beyond As well as occupying renovated Visy Gaining a greater appreciation of what which will continue to see better facilities Park offices, AFL Victoria will also be makes community football tick so strongly for spectators and participants of our able to utilise the ground for its various was helped by meeting with most game. Academies and provide a gym facility for presidents and CEO’s of all senior leagues the talented player pathway participants. and we certainly appreciated their time. Both had been long term priorities within Clearly, vibrant business plans and clarity “Once again the TAC Cup proved AFL Victoria. This move will allow our for the future was evident from all those the best football nursery in the academy programs to reach new heights. meetings and AFL Victoria is committed country. Appreciation to continue to work closely to support the On behalf of the AFL Victoria Board I leagues with their plans. About 60 percent of players would like to offer our sincere gratitude Growth in participation numbers, selected in the 2010 NAB AFL to recently departed CEO Peter Schwab, crowd figures and general competition whose tireless leadership, passion, standards continue to surge, another National Draft were TAC Cup commitment, work and results have been healthy indicator for the state of the graduates, a ringing endorsement greatly appreciated. game. of Victoria’s talented player Peter has moved to the position of AFL Certainly, there was a significant decline Director of Coaching and I am sure you in off field incidents and there is a direct pathway.” join me in wishing him well with his future correlation in this regard to how the endeavours. competitions are managed. Thanks also go to all AFL Victoria staff for AFL Victoria remains steadfast in its Life Members their committed work and enthusiasm to plan for football to be a family-friendly AFL Victoria welcomed six new inductees grow and develop our game. environment that maximises participation to its Life Members roll. To my Board, a special thanks for their and attendance opportunities. Long serving Box Hill Hawks President extensive support, belief and dedication To this unswerving aim, AFL Victoria is and Board Member John Ure; to ensure the on-going success and conducting an alcohol behavioural review, Sandringham General Manager and strength of Victorian football. which we expect will lead to the launch former President John Mennie; Werribee Particular thanks to David Doherty and of an alcohol policy supported by many Tigers Coach and former player Simon Ray Gunston who have chaired our sub community leagues in the future. Atkins; North Ballarat premiership captain Shaune Moloney, Port Melbourne committees for their professional and Female Football teammates Ryan McMahon and David innovative guidance. AFL Victoria conducted an independent Pitt were all inducted during the season. In Closing review on the Victorian Women’s Football Congratulations to all the new Life There is no doubt football in Victoria is in League during 2010, a process that saw Members for their outstanding good shape. The Board of AFL Victoria many meetings with key stakeholders, contribution to the VFL. has a greater focus than ever before to including the VWFL executive and its Also, congratulations to John Kempf, a bring improved value to our stakeholders members clubs. stalwart at Sandringham Football Club in pursuit of our common goal which is The overwhelming result, as expected, for decades, on receiving the Alec Gillon to make our game the most watched, highlighted that women’s football has Medal. played and attended sport in Australia. an outstanding future in Victoria as Thank you for your support in 2010 and evidenced by the spiral in participation Sponsors we look forward to an even greater year numbers through the youth girls leagues The continued growth of Victorian football in 2011. over the past five years. owes much to the generous support of several corporations.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 9 AFL VICTORIA BOARD BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Grant O’Riley DAVid doherty oam Chairman Chairman & Director of AFL Victoria Development Advisory Board Founder and Managing Director of one of Australia’s leading financial planning David is a consulting professional and past national organisations, with more than 25 years’ Chairman of the Logistics Association of Australia. experience in the finance sector. Played for two David umpired over 300 games and was involved years in the VFL and more than 10 in the VFA, in coaching junior football. He is a past president winning two flags and regularly played state of the VMFL and now a Director of the AFL Victoria representative football. Board. He is also chairman of the Transport, Distribution and Logistics Industry Round Table and President of the Canada-Australia Institute. PETER SCHWAB STEPHEN JONES CEO PARTNER, ATM CONSULTANTS CEO of AFL Victoria, Peter holds a Bachelor of Stephen is a partner in the public accounting Education (Physical Education and English). firm ATM Consultants and has been involved in Peter is a three-time premiership player with community football for many years including five Hawthorn, where he was later appointed to the years as Chairman of the Eastern Football League. Senior Coach position. Peter was formerly the Chairman of the AFL’s Match Review Panel. JOHN JORDAN GEOFF ALMOND SENIOR BARRISTER Geoff retired from Australia Post as National Manager of Delivery Equipment and Services A Senior Barrister, John was a 300-game player Systems. Geoff has extensive experience as a in amateur and country football, a former VAFA junior football administrator, sitting on junior club A grade senior coach (1980) and has extensive and league boards for more than 20 years. experience as a local football administrator. NICHOLAS BOURKE RAY GUNSTON Managing Director, Bourke Property Chief Financial Officer, Tatts Group A former President of the VAFA, Nick has been Ray has spent more than 30 years associated involved in football as a player and coach in the with football on and off the field. A former VAFA since 1995. Nick joined the VAFA Board in Brunswick VFL player, he also has been 2002, was president in 2007 and is the current involved in Auskick, junior football, coaching chairman of the Australian Amateur Football and administration. A previous board member Council (AAFC). Nick is Managing Director at Essendon, Ray is currently the Chief Financial of Bourke Property which is involved in the Officer of the Tatts Group. Marketing and sale of development properties.

ANDREW DILLON DAVID MATTHEWS General Manager – General Manager – Legal and Business Affairs, AFL Game Development, AFL Andrew joined the AFL in 2000 as legal counsel David was the General and was appointed General Manager – Legal Manager from 1993-96 before being appointed and Business Affairs in 2004. Andrew has been the VCFL Operations Manager in 1997. In 1998 involved with Victorian club football, having played David joined the AFL and was AFL Auskick 290 games in the VAFA. and Participation Manager for five years before being appointed General Manager – Game Development in 2004.

10 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 AFL VICTORIA BOARD ADVISORY BOARD

DAVid doherty oam PETER SCHWAB Chairman & Director of AFL Victoria CEO Development Advisory Board CEO of AFL Victoria, Peter holds a Bachelor of David is a consulting professional and past national Education (Physical Education and English). Chairman of the Logistics Association of Australia. Peter is a three-time premiership player with David umpired over 300 games and was involved Hawthorn, where he was later appointed to the in coaching junior football. He is a past president Senior Coach position. Peter was formerly the of the VMFL and now a Director of the AFL Victoria Chairman of the AFL’s Match Review Panel. Board. He is also chairman of the Transport, Distribution and Logistics Industry Round Table and President of the Canada-Australia Institute. BRAD OSTERMEYER Executive Director Infrastructure, Regional Development Victoria DEREK HUMPHERY-SMITH As an Executive with Regional Development Partner, Lander & Rogers Victoria Brad combines specialist expertise in investment attraction and facilitation, and has over As Head of Workplace Relations & Safety Derek 25 years involvement in community football as a has an impressive national and international player and administrator at club level. Brad also has client base. Derek also has a comprehensive previous experience within the AFL Victoria ranks background in sports law and currently acts for a heading up the Community Football Department. number of AFL clubs in this capacity. Formerly an AFL field umpire Derek can be heard as a media DIANA TAYLOR commentator with the and SEN. Corporate Lawyer, MACpherson & kelley Diana brings 10 years experience in football as an administrator and member of a number of tribunals. She was the first women appointed to the VFL Tribunal and Appeals Board and was President of the Western Region Football League GEOFF ALMOND from 2007 to 2009. Diana is a member of the Geelong FC Board, chairperson of AFL Victoria’s Geoff retired from Australia Post as National Fair Game: Respect Matters Reference Group and Manager of Delivery Equipment and Services Nine Lives – Geelong. Diana is a corporate lawyer Systems. Geoff has extensive experience as a specialising in workplace relations and financial junior football administrator, sitting on junior club services law and is currently the Executive Counsel and league boards for more than 20 years. at law firm Macpherson & Kelley. IAN HAMM Deputy Director, Indigenous Affairs Victoria Ian is a Yorta Yorta man who has been actively involved in the Victorian Indigenous community JOHN DOHERTY in a personal and professional capacity for many years. He has had a wide level of exposure to Senior Magistrate, Sunshine Region policy development and program management Victorian Magistrate for 18 years, including six in through Government Offices and is currently the charge of the western suburbs and now based at Executive Director of Aboriginal Affairs Victoria. Ian Broadmeadows Court. Strong commitment to the is also the former President of the Western Region development of football particularly among junior Football League, one of the major Australian clubs. Management background in courts and Football leagues in Melbourne. harness racing.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 11 CEO’S REPORT GROWING OUR GREAT GAME

PETER SCHWAB AFL VICTORIA CEO

In any given year you seek moments in a very reasonably priced introduction now 39 teams across six competitions the game where you sense something program particularly when compared in youth girls segment. Also we hosted different, better or sometimes worse against other sports in the same area, the inaugural Under 18 National happening. If I had to pick a moment but we do need to be conscious of this Championships in Melbourne in 2010 in the 2010 season it would be driving factor. Arguably as we drop the entry age with two Victorian teams representing the out to Craigieburn to the Highgate into community football we must expect State. Recreation Reserve, the newest venue a number will cross over from Auskick to Flowing on from this increase in female in metropolitan Melbourne, to watch a junior football. While not flagging a small football AFLV has just conducted a former Rugby League star take his first decrease in Auskick numbers in a single review across all female segments with steps towards an AFL career in a match year as a major issue we do need to some great initiatives suggested in that between an interstate team the Gold remain vigilant about the great product of review to further develop the game for Coast Suns against Coburg in the VFL. Auskick which has always underpinned women and girls. It probably encapsulated a lot of things our participation levels. Volunteers about where our game is and where it While there was marginal growth in club Once again football’s ability to attract is heading. Firstly the size of the crowd volunteers was critical to the game’s which attended the game means people success and its continued growth. As an love something different in our game. “If I had to pick a moment in industry one of our biggest challenges Secondly it was played in a growth the 2010 season it would be is to continue supporting our volunteers corridor of Melbourne showing that driving out to Craigieburn to the by making their task as easy as possible as the city spreads so does the game. in an ever increasing compliance Thirdly it was at a facility and venue built Highgate Recreation Reserve, environment. But also important to this on the back of a partnership between the newest venue in metropolitan group of people is to recognise their local, state and federal governments with contribution at all levels. This I must say the input of the AFL and AFL Victoria Melbourne, to watch a former is happening with most major leagues (AFLV). Fourthly it showcased the Rugby League star take his first presenting significant recognition of growth of the game nationally. Finally it steps towards an AFL career...” volunteers at their presentation nights. highlighted the game’s ability to attract I also would like to add my support for the best athletes from other sports. the ever increasing professional quality Overall football in Victoria still attracts a football numbers there are still more than of league season launches. They are a significant number of participants who in 134,000 participants across the State. great example of the respect leagues turn are supported by the volunteers, the When you analyse how many people have for their clubs and their desire to umpires, coaches and administrators of support those players, how many attend lift the overall professionalism of their the game. community games and how much organisation and their member clubs. money sponsors at local level and the Challenges local and state governments provide to Social Programs We also work in a market with other community football it remains a massive The other significant change I have sports who are also trying to grow their social activity. observed in community football in my participation and volunteer numbers. But time has been the growth in the depth the biggest problem we are all facing is Female Football and breadth of social programs our inactivity within our communities. Female football had the most growth of leagues are committed to supporting In 2010 Auskick numbers dropped any segment, particular in youth girls such as respect for women (Fair Game, slightly. Should we be concerned? Is it who continue to grow not just in numbers Respect Matters Program), Beyond Blue price related? We have always provided but in the standard of play. There are (depression), alcohol related violence

12 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 Home and Away: Werribee and Coburg battle it out in round 10 of the VFL season.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 13 AFL Auskick: While not flagging a small decrease in Auskick numbers in a single year as a major issue we do need to remain vigilant about the great product of Auskick which has always underpinned our participation levels.

(Championship Moves), Road Safety Essendon Districts FL. The outcomes officials, support staff and spectators to (TAC), Blue Ribbon (Police), Call To Arms from that initiative have been evaluated enjoy the experience. (cancer campaign) to name but a few of by Latrobe University. But as administrators and lovers of our the many worthy charities and causes game we must be vigilant and continually Code of Conduct our leagues believe in assisting. remind ourselves and everyone involved In 2010 the State Government AFLV has been pleased with the work that the number one reason children play introduced a Code of Conduct, which being done by Essendon Districts sport is for fun, and once the enjoyment football was very happy to assist in and Northern Football Leagues in the is removed from their experience they formulating, given our extensive policy expansion of the Fair Game, Respect will drop out. and practical work around this vital area Matters Program which now engages 41 of behaviour at sporting events. Talent Programs clubs. While we recognise the occasional Our talent programs notably through We’d also like to recognise those leagues incidents of poor spectator behaviour the TAC Cup clubs and their associated that assisted us to trial the Alcohol Policy at matches, the majority of people regions continue to achieve their Development initiative to evaluate low involved in our game at all levels do objectives of producing high AFL Draft alcohol consumption at their Grand conduct themselves in a manner which numbers and quality footballers who Finals, which was conducted at Western allows players, coaches, administrators, either go onto the VFL or return to Region FL, Central Highlands FL and

14 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 CEO’S REPORT

play community football better for the an outstanding achievement by coach, our game with new arrivals as well as experience. players and club. represent our game’s best interests to all In 2010 Vic Country won the NAB AFL Congratulations must be extended to levels of government. Under 18 National Championships in all our TAC Cup and VFL clubs and Partnerships a very tight competition. Vic Metro also especially the premiers of the TAC Cup Another challenge for AFLV is to secure performed well. the Calder Cannons who have now won enough financial resources to undertake The AFL Under 16 National back to back premierships and have been all our strategic objectives and to this Championships were played in Blacktown the most successful on-field team in the end we are grateful to receive funding in Western Sydney where both country competition’s 19 year history. from the AFL - by far the biggest financial and metro teams performed well. I would also like to congratulate all our supporter of football in Victoria - the State Victoria was well represented when it local Clubs and leagues and acknowledge Government via their departments and came to All-Australian selection with 12 those who have had a successful in particular the SRV department and making the Under 18 team, and 15 boys season and to all those Clubs who won a its former Minister James Merlino, Vic being selected to the 2010/2011 AIS-AFL premiership. There are great competitions Health, TAC, Ford Australia and the MCC Academy Squad. right across our state and the interest via their Foundation are all assisting us to in the finals series and grand finals is Pathway achieve this. enormous in community football. All football stakeholders should be Vic Health continues to invest significant proud of the success rate Victoria has Issues funds into our community football in producing players for the AFL as they On other matters of interest the issue of support programs. The TAC invests have all at some stage passed through the ground maintenance is important. As our heavily into our Talent Pathway the TAC pathway of Victorian football. game grows we will require more training Cup Competition, and the MCC help We are very pleased 95% of all graduates and games to be played and this doesn’t significantly with our school programs. from the TAC Cup play football after allow for the recovery of our playing Without these partnerships it would exiting the TAC Cup program. This is a grounds at certain venues, which significantly impact on our capacity to statistic we are just as proud of as the deteriorate under constant use. nurture and grow the game’s future in this number of players drafted. Like any level This is not just our problem as a sport, State. of junior football our aim is to make sure this is a problem for other sports which Acknowledgement players come back to the game each share the same venues and for councils On a personal note I would like to thank season. which have responsibility for them. Only in all the other stakeholders in football for The VFL competition had another fine a true partnership can we solve the issue their support and commitment to our season with the standard continuing of ground maintenance. game. Especially our leagues and clubs to improve. There is no doubt the AFL Another issue is football’s ability to secure for the important role they play in our listed players assist in achieving this, access to enough open space to build communities. but we are also pleased with the quality ovals and facilities whenever I would like to acknowledge the hard of non-AFL listed players and we feel developers and councils responsible for work, dedication and strategic guidance certain the VFL will become an even growth areas are planning. We cannot the Board of AFL Victoria led by Chairman bigger recruiting competition for the AFL grow participation if we do not have Grant O’Riley provide and wish them with the introduction of the two new AFL anywhere to play. good luck in the future role of supporting franchises. Facilities, whether maintaining existing Victorian Football. All of us involved in the VFL took great ones or building new ones, remains a big To the executive team of Mick Daniher, interest in the form of Michael Barlow issue. The amount of money required Stephen Smith and John Hook thank you (Fremantle) and James Podsiadly in this area alone is significant. There for your commitment to the organisation (Geelong) who showed they could play is no easy answer, but a great example and football and the leadership you a significant role at AFL level. In addition of working with a community and its provide to all our staff. (Fremantle) and Marcus supporters to build an outstanding facility To all AFL Victoria staff your Marigliani (Essendon) were other former is what Peter Francis, AFLV’s Regional commitment and support for the game is VFL players to debut in 2010. Once Manager for Gippsland, was able to do at unquestionable and you should feel pride again we are hopeful of more VFL players Morwell. in what you do for the game in Victoria. making the step up. AFLV not only has an obligation to I’d also like to personally thank my provide development programs across all Success assistant Silvana Hurst for making my role segments, it is one of our major strategic The VFL was also successful in its State so much easier. plan objectives. We must and we do match against in I would like to finish with a favourite quote support the following: our community winning by 55 points in a high standard of mine from American legend NFL Coach leagues and their clubs and in doing performance. won the Frank Vince Lombardi, which sums up how I so assist their network of volunteers, to Johnson Medal as Victoria’s best player. believe everyone involved in football in this promote football in our school networks, North Ballarat’s Gerard Fitzgerald was great state should view the game and their grow umpiring numbers, administer the the successful coach. Gerard went involvement in it. Talent Pathway via the TAC Regions and on to coach North Ballarat to their “Teamwork requires everyone to always the VFL competition, provide access to third successive premiership at Etihad ask: “How do I make it easier for my the game to marginalised groups within Stadium in the 2010 VFL Grand Final - teammate?” our community, build an interest in

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 15 VFL REPORT THE TALENT PATHWAY

JOHN HOOK AFL VICTORIA FOOTBALL OPERATIONS MANAGER

SEASON 2010 once again showcased successive premiership. The Michael Manager Marg Richards. the ever increasing high standard of Barlow and stories reinforce Clearly, the introduction of the Gold football played weekly in the Victorian the importance of the talent pathway and Coast Football Club to the 2010 VFL Football League. It was evident on a raft the second tier football structure. season created enormous interest, of levels: AFL and VFL competitions, After two seasons playing the VFL and media exposure and a snap shot of the State representative matches and, at TAC Cup Grand Finals on the eve of young talent in the AFL’s 17th team. the year’s end, the NAB AFL National the AFL Grand Final, season 2010 saw Who could forget the unprecedented Pre-Season and Rookie Drafts and trade both Grand Finals played on the Sunday media coverage and interest generated periods. More and more recognition was before the AFL Grand Final at Etihad by former rugby league star Karmichael bestowed upon the VFL in the player Stadium. It proved a resounding success Hunt when he made his debut for Gold talent pathway. as it showcased AFL Victoria’s two major Coast at the Highgate Recreational Former VFL Team Of The Year competitions. For the second successive Reserve, Craigieburn against the Coburg representatives Michael Barlow (ex- year North Ballarat and Northern Football Club. Gold Coast proved to be a Werribee Tiger) and James Podsiadly Bullants squared off for the VFL Grand competitive unit and we wish them well in (ex-Werribee Tiger/Geelong) underscored Final and again North Ballarat emerged their first year in the AFL competition in the talent of the VFL when they stepped 2011. Certainly, AFL Victoria is proud to straight into the AFL arena in 2010 have helped the Suns in its preparation and made an immediate impact with “Former VFL Team Of The Year in entering the AFL. Fremantle and Geelong respectively. representatives Michael Barlow Draft Significantly, it raised the awareness of (ex-Werribee Tiger) and James While the 2009 draft gave a number of the competition in the eyes not only of VFL players the opportunity to become AFL club recruiters, but also the greater Podsiadly (ex-Werribee Tiger/ part of an AFL club environment, the football community. Certainly, Michael Geelong) underscored the talent of recently held 2010 NAB AFL National Barlow highlighted the importance of Draft, Pre-Season and Rookie Drafts the football pathway. Barlow graduated the VFL when they stepped straight continued that trend. Isaac Smith, a from country club Shepparton, tried out into the AFL arena in 2010 and first year player with North Ballarat was with St Kilda and then was recruited made an immediate impact...” selected in the first round by Hawthorn. to play with Werribee Tigers. After two Williamstown’s and Smith’s seasons in the VFL, where he was named teammate Cameron Richardson ended Fothergill Round Medallist for the most as victors, 20.13.133 to Northern up on the lists of Fremantle and North promising young player with the potential Bullants’ 13.8.86. Melbourne respectively in pre-trade to play AFL, and selected in the VFL Congratulations to all involved at the deals. Team Of The Year, he was then selected North for achieving The AFL Pre-Season Draft saw a further by Fremantle in the NAB AFL Rookie a feat accomplished only seven times in two VFL players – Nathan Ablett (Gold Draft. the previous 100 years. Extended kudos Coast) and (Frankston) It’s a similar storyline for Isaac Smith, to president Peter Wilson, coach Gerard selected by Gold Coast and Essendon a first round NAB AFL National Draft Fitzgerald and captain Shaune Moloney, respectively – advance their careers. selection by the Hawthorn Football who’ve held such pivotal positions in The AFL Rookie Draft saw an additional Club. Remarkably, Smith started the all three flags. Clubs cannot achieve six players – Stephen Clifton (North 2010 season playing for Redan in the such success without a professional Ballarat), Ben Jakobi (Coburg Tigers), , captured the administration. North Ballarat was Cameron Pederson (Box Hill Hawks), attention of North Ballarat and ended the splendidly led off the field by General (Box Hill Hawks), Jonathon season playing in the club’s historic third Manager Mark Patterson and Football

16 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 VFL Action: Joel McDonald in full flight for the Casey Scorpions.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 17 Simpkin (Geelong) and Robert Campbell Valenti who tied for the JJ Liston Trophy. the Fred Hill Memorial Medal for best (Box Hill Hawks) – selected by AFL clubs. Williamstown spearhead Matthew on ground in the Hawks’ 17-point win It took to 11 the number of VFL players Little claimed the Jim ‘Frosty’ Miller against Williamstown in the VFL Reserves who will find themselves on an AFL Medal for the first time with a total of Grand Final. list in the 2011 season. Indeed, it was 80 goals. Frankston’s Michael Hibberd State Match especially pleasing to see two VFL medal won the Fothergill-Round Medal for the The Western Australian Football League winners – co Liston Trophy winner competition’s most promising player who played host to a State match against Stephen Clifton and Fothergill Round in the opinion of the selection panel has the VFL in Perth on May 22. While Medallist Michael Hibberd – rewarded the potential to take his game to a higher our preparation time was considerably with an opportunity at the elite level. We level. Myles Sewell, winner of the 2009 shorter than the WAFL it did not wish both well as a new chapter in their JJ Liston Trophy, was awarded the 2010 diminish the hard work, commitment football career opens. Norm Goss Medal for best on ground in and dedication of the coaching staff and the Grand Final. Individual Honours players. I must also add my thanks to all At VFL reserves level, Williamstown’s Heading this year’s honour roll was VFL clubs and their respective coaches Matthew Cravino won the A. Todd Medal, North Ballarat midfielder who provided outstanding feedback and awarded to the fairest and best player. and Port Melbourne midfielder Shane support in this selection process. Box Hill Hawks Andrew Renton won

18 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 Hard to Beat: For the third year in a row, North Ballarat won the VFL premiership.

Under the leadership of coach Gerard Support personnel are critical for any hardness and ability to win the contested Fitzgerald and captain Brett Johnson, the successful team and we gave the clubs ball along with excellent disposal, by VFL posted an emphatic victory. the opportunity to nominate long serving both hand and foot, was the catalyst for The coaching panel was led by head staff within their clubs to be a part of an excellent victory: 20.11.131 to West coach Gerard Fitzgerald, defensive the Victorian team. These people were Australia 11.10.76. coach, Port Melbourne’s ; outstanding in their roles and their Williamstown full forward Matthew forward coach, Williamstown’s Peter professionalism helped immensely in our Little, who kicked seven goals, won the German and midfield coach, Northern win. Frank Johnston Medallist for the best Bullants’ Robbie Maiorana. Much credit goes, however, to Gerard Victorian player. The state game also The other important group was the Fitzgerald, whose management and presented Collingwood ‘rookie’ Jarryd selectors led by Chairman of Selectors people skills were able to mould a Blair, a former Morrish Medallist, with an Bruce Davis and supported by Col strong group of characters into an opportunity to play at the highest level Kinnear and Peter Weightman. Again excellent cohesive unit. Coupled with his he’d experienced. Blair’s outstanding we had a wealth of experience from this organisational skills and strong coaching game was rewarded not long after by his group and their initial leg work in the philosophies it enabled the team to elevation to Collingwood’s senior list and viewing of games within the first five perform at their maximum on the day. then his first AFL match. The rest, as rounds was essential. Indeed, it was a brilliant display. The they say, is history as Blair held his spot

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 19 VFL REPORT

The Stage is Set: and the Calder Cannons line up for the national anthem at the 2010 TAC Cup Grand Final.

and played in Collingwood’s premiership recipient of the Alec Gillon Award, which is congratulate AFL Victoria’s State team. awarded for outstanding service to a club Director of Umpiring Kevin Mitchell and Once again, the 23rd player rule continued or the league. his assistant Angela Lindsay for their to evolve and provide current and exiting professionalism in running our umpiring Facilities TAC Cup players with an opportunity to department. I would also like to extend The redevelopment of VFL venues remains play senior VFL football. Anything that my congratulations to the umpires that a priority for AFL Victoria. Improved enhances the opportunity of players controlled the VFL Grand Final - Field facilities will generate revenue and through the Victorian player pathway must Umpires: Matthew Leppard, Matthew improve the standard and reputation of be viewed as a positive. Brown and Brett Ritchie; boundary the competition. Certainly, the opening umpires Drew Kowalski, Michael Marantelli Life Membership of the Highgate Recreation Reserve at and Patrick Tongue as well as goal Life membership is a great honour in any Craigieburn was a fantastic addition to umpires Courtney Lai and Anthony Kyrkou. organisation and some fantastic long-time not only the VFL, but also the TAC Cup Another important component of the servants of the VFL were duly recognised and community football. Our thanks VFL competition is the Tribunal. As and rewarded in 2010. Players Shaune are extended to the Federal and State usual Chairman Eddie Power and all Moloney (North Ballarat), David Pitt governments, Hume Council, AFL and of the Tribunal members provided the and Ryan McMahon (Port Melbourne) AFL Victoria who all contributed to this professionalism, guidance and fairness received their automatic life membership magnificent venue. that goes with such an important position. for reaching the 175 game milestones. Appreciation The VFL competition continues to Werribee Tigers’ coach Simon Atkins also On behalf of AFL Victoria, I would like to produce a high standard of attractive and received automatic life membership for thank the ABC for its professionalism and entertaining football and this is matched reaching the 175 games as a player and continued support of the VFL throughout by the Tribunal’s regulation of the rules, a coach. John Ure and John Mennie, 2010, culminating in the fantastic live which makes the VFL a competitive, but two great club administrators, were also coverage of the VFL’s showpiece. The fair competition. recognised for their contributions not only VFL competition over the last two years In closing, I would like to thank all of to their clubs but to the VFL competition has proven to be an extremely important the committed people – club staff, as well. Ure and Mennie have served component of the AFL talent pool. players, administrators, stakeholders and tirelessly Box Hill and Sandringham The game of football cannot proceed umpires – involved in making the VFL the respectively for decades. Sandringham without the umpires and I wish to successful competition it undoubtedly is. Football Club’s John Kempf was the

20 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 VFL REPORT

VFL SEASON 2010 CLUB INFORMATION Bombers 2010 FINAL LADDER P W L D B FF FOR AG PC PTS Queen Elizabeth Oval View Street, Bendigo 3350 Williamstown 18 15 3 0 0 0 2174 1312 165.70 60 Joined VFL: 1998 Premierships: 0 North Ballarat 18 15 3 0 0 0 1650 1260 130.95 60 2010 Coach: bendigobombers.com Casey Scorpions 18 14 4 0 0 0 1619 1471 110.06 56 Box Hill Hawks Port Melbourne 18 13 5 0 0 0 1946 1506 129.22 52 Box Hill City Oval, Cnr Middleborough and Whitehorse Roads, Box Hill 3128 Box Hill Hawks 18 11 7 0 0 0 1663 1531 108.62 44 Joined VFL: 1951 Premierships: 1 2010 Coach: Brendan Bolton Northern Bullants 18 10 8 0 0 0 1814 1539 117.87 40 boxhillhawks.com.au Collingwood 18 10 8 0 0 0 1672 1509 110.80 40 Casey Scorpions Bendigo Bombers 18 10 8 0 0 0 1564 1533 102.02 40 , Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne 3977 Sandringham 18 7 11 0 0 0 1366 1463 93.37 28 Joined VFL: 1982 Premierships: 5 2010 Coach: Gold Coast 18 5 12 1 0 0 1409 1706 82.59 22 scorpions.com.au

Coburg Tigers 18 5 13 0 0 0 1502 1757 85.49 20 Coburg Tigers Geelong 18 5 13 0 0 0 1401 1743 80.38 20 Multiplex Stadium, Harding Street, Coburg 3058 Joined VFL: 1925 Premierships: 6 Werribee Tigers 18 4 13 1 0 0 1586 1957 81.04 18 2010 Coach: David Newett coburgtigers.com.au Frankston 18 1 17 0 0 0 1000 2079 48.10 4 Collingwood Victoria Park, Lulie Street, Abbotsford Joined VFL: 2000 Premierships: 0 2010 Coach: VFL GRAND FINAL RESULTS & AWARDS collingwoodfc.com.au

SENIORS RESERVES Frankston Frankston Oval, Cnr. Young Street and Ploughman Grand Final Grand Final Place, Frankston 3199 North Ballarat 20.13 (133) def. Box Hill Hawks 17.20 (122) def. Joined VFL: 1966 Premierships: 0 2010 Coach: Simon Goosey Northern Bullants 13.8 (86) Williamstown 16.9 (105) frankstonfc.com.au Norm Goss Medal (Best player in Grand Final) Fred Hill Memorial Medal Geelong Cats Myles Sewell (North Ballarat) (Best player in Grand Final) Skilled Stadium, Latrobe Terrace, Umpires Andrew Renton (Box Hill Hawks) Geelong 3220 Joined VFL: 2000 Premierships: 2 Field: Matthew Leppard, Matthew Brown, Umpires 2010 Coach: Dale Amos Brett Ritchie Field: Andrew McCoy, Daniel Craig, geelongfc.com.au Boundary: Drew Kowalski, Michael Marantelli, Jamie Grindal Gold Coast Patrick Tongue Boundary: Nicholas Laurence, Stephen Gloag, Fankhauser Reserve, Olsen Avenue, Southport Goal: Courtney Lai, Anthony Kyrkou Matthew Tomkins Joined VFL: 2010 Premierships: 0 Goal: Dean Jones, Michael Richardson 2010 Coach: Guy McKenna JJ Liston Trophy () goldcoastfc.com.au Steve Clifton (North Ballarat) A. Todd Medal and Shane Valenti (Port Melbourne) North Ballarat Roosters (Best and Fairest) , Creswick Road Fothergill-Round Medal Matthew Cravino (Williamstown) North Ballarat 3550 Joined VFL: 1996 Premierships: 3 (Most promising young player) 2010 Coach: Gerard Fitzgerald Michael Hibberd (Frankston) theroosters.com.au

Jim ‘Frosty’ Miller Medal Northern Bullants (Leading goalkicker in the home & away season) Preston City Oval, Cramer Street, Preston 3072 Matthew Little (Williamstown, 80 goals) Joined VFL: 1903 Premierships: 4 2010 Coach: David Teague northernbullants.com.au

Port Melbourne 2010 VFL TEAM OF THE YEAR TEAC Oval, Williamstown Road, Port Melbourne 3207 B Michael Stockdale Casey Scorpions Peter Faulks Williamstown Northern Bullants Joined VFL: 1886 Premierships: 15 2010 Coach: Gary Ayres pmfc.com.au HB Michael Hibberd Frankston Sam Pleming Port Melbourne Cameron Richardson North Ballarat Sandringham Zebras C Ben Davies Williamstown Brett Johnson Williamstown Coburg Tigers Beach Oval, Cnr. Beach Road and Hampton Street, Sandringham 3191 Joined VFL: 1929 Premierships: 10 HF Gold Coast Port Melbourne Stephen Clifton North Ballarat 2010 Coach: sandringhamfc.com.au F Gold Coast Matthew Little Williamstown Shane Valenti Port Melbourne Werribee Tigers Avalon Airport Oval, Walton Street, Werribee 3030 R North Ballarat Myles Sewell North Ballarat Ed Curnow Box Hill Hawks Joined VFL: 1965 Premierships: 1 2010 Coach: Simon Atkins Int Russell Gabriel Frankston Dom Gleeson Werribee Tigers James Wall Casey Scorpions werribeefc.com.au

Williamstown Toby Pinwill Port Melbourne Jonothan Simpkin Geelong Williamstown Burbank Oval, Morris Street, Williamstown 3018 Joined VFL: 1884 Premierships: 13 Coach Gerard Fitzgerald North Ballarat 2010 Coach: williamstown.aflvic.com.au

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 21 WHERE CHAMPIONS ARE BORN

Encouraging Signs: In 2010 Victoria Country won the AFL Under 18 National Championships in a very tight competition. Metro also performed well.

VICTORIA remains the undisputed best Draft. Significantly, 14 TAC Cup players the raw material. After the trading period nursery of young talent in Australia. It were among the first round selections, and deleting previously listed players was evident across all levels throughout including four – (Oakleigh there were a total of 75 new selections a stellar 2010. Once again, the TAC Cup Chargers), (), from the 112 draftees. Clearly, Victoria underscored its status as an outstanding (Gippsland Power) and was dominant on all levels. Victoria’s development competition as it prepares (Calder Cannons) – in the percentage of players selected was more players to obtain the maximum of their first 10 selections. Included in the draft than three times higher than the next ability so they exit to whatever level percentages is one non-Victorian player State – West Australia, who provided of competition as better players and Ben Mabon, who played with the Murray 17%. Breaking down the numbers even individuals. Bushrangers but is a residentially tied further, 64% of the first round selections As has been the case throughout its ever NSW player. In essence, he was drafted were from the TAC Cup along with Isaac strengthening journey and history, the because his development was enhanced Smith from VFL club North Ballarat; 63% TAC Cup proved the No 1 competition in by playing in the TAC Cup. of second and third round selections providing players to AFL clubs through the In providing a clear, untainted picture respectively were from the TAC Cup and NAB AFL National and Rookie Drafts. The in identifying the pathway of new talent 33% of the fourth round selections were TAC Cup competition contributed 44 new into the AFL via the 2010 NAB AFL from the TAC Cup. players (59%) in the NAB AFL National National Draft it is best to break down Greater Western Sydney was able to

22 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 prelist NSW residential players prior to outstanding from both the VFL and guidance of former Calder Cannons the National Draft and these four players TAC Cup competitions. Again I wish to premiership coach Rob Hyde, Vic Country – Kurt Aylett (North Ballarat Rebels), acknowledge the exceptional work by our emerged with the Championship title Anthony Miles (), High Performance Managers Anton Grbac for the first time since 2003. Gippsland Mark Whiley (Murray Bushrangers) and and Leon Harris. Their assessment of our Power’s Dyson Heppell was named by the Sam Schultz (Murray Bushrangers) - all talent pool and their capacity to work with AFL as Country’s MVP while Dandenong played in the TAC Cup system. While this all stakeholders is a major reason why AFL Stingrays was chosen quartet are viewed as NSW players there Victoria achieved these results. by the coaching panel as the best Vic is little doubt the TAC system helped I would also like to thank all our talent Country player. Vic Metro also performed contribute to their prelisting. If these Region Managers and coaches for all their extremely well, winning four games and players were taken into account, the TAC hard work. It only goes to reinforce our losing only to Vic Country. Calder Cannons’ competition’s contribution to percentage of structure and the quality of people who do Matthew Watson was named by the AFL new talent would be 60%. The NAB AFL so much for the Victorian talent pathway. as Metro MVP with ’ Rookie Draft saw a further 10 TAC Cup As usual, season 2010 provided many Tom Schneider the Metro best player. No players selected by AFL clubs. highlights, none greater than Vic Country’s fewer than 12 TAC Cup players, including AFL Victoria’s contribution to the success in the NAB AFL Under 18 11 Victorians, featured in the All Australian AFL club lists from the 2010 drafts is National Championship. Under the Team: , Lucas Cook, Mitch

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 23 Winners: Calder Cannons went back to back in 2010, winning the TAC Cup.

Hallahan, Dyson Heppell, and win, 17.14 (116) to 8.10 (58). Cannons’ chance to field their strongest teams after (Vic Country); Josh Caddy, captain and dominant midfielder Mitch school commitments had concluded Andrew Gaff, Ben Jacobs, , Wallis was named the TAC Medallist for and showcase their skill and talent in a Matthew Watson (Vic Metro) and Anthony best on ground in the Grand Final. finals pressure environment. The TAC Miles (NSW/ACT, who played with Murray Season 2010 was littered with many Cup also introduced triple headers in Bushrangers during the season). Capping individual highlights. Gippsland Power both metropolitan and country venues. off the Victorian dominance, Rob Hyde captain Dyson Heppell and Sandringham It proved an overwhelming success was named as All Australian coach. A Dragons captain Jackson Sketcher tied for for players, clubs and AFL recruiters. special thank you to all of the staff who the , awarded on the votes Another important component in the contributed to the representative programs of the umpires for the fairest and best success of the TAC Cup is the continued especially Robert Dean (Vic Metro) for his player in the TAC Cup. Northern Knights’ development and improvement of outstanding contribution over many years won the TAC Cup Coaches facilities. Clearly, the opening of Highgate and to the Vic Country staff who received Award while Dandenong Stingrays’ Corey Recreation Reserve at Craigieburn, which Service Awards including Carli Harri, John Buchan led the goal kicking with 52 was utilized by Calder Cannons, was an Hunt, Brian Kinder, Les Ponton, Richard goals. Congratulations to undoubted highlight. Upgrades were Embelton, Paul O’Dwyer and Stuart Page. , who graduated from also undertaken at , Well done to Andrew Nicol (Vic Metro) Oakleigh Chargers, for winning the NAB Dandenong Stingrays, and (Vic Country) on their first AFL Rising Star. A total of 12 ex-TAC Cup and . Special thanks to year coaching in the NAB AFL National players received Rising Star nominations Gippsland Power Regional Manager Peter Under 16 National Championships. A total during the season. The 2010 Keith Burns Francis for all the tireless work he put in to of 15 or 50% of the AFL/AIS Academy Award, for the TAC Cup Coach of the the outstanding facility which was built at scholarships were awarded to Victorian Year, was awarded to Dale Tapping, the Morwell. players. coach. Congratulations to TAC Cup coaches who Calder Cannons continued its phenomenal The season also saw Greater Western have progressed to AFL Ranks, and thank run of premierships in the 21st century as Sydney join the TAC Cup competition as you to Glenn Wilkins for his contribution they emerged from seemingly nowhere the AFL’s newest club took its fledgling over the past two years at North Ballarat to win its sixth flag since 2001. The steps towards 2012 when they will enter Rebels. Geelong Falcons coach Cannons, under Martin Allison’s coaching, the AFL. GWS involvement created is now coaching with Geelong Cats; Steve climbed from seventh at the end of the added interest and awareness to the Grace, after two seasons as Oakleigh home and away season and with its full competition and provided the players Chargers coach is now Development complement of private school players, with an insight into what’s needed to Coach with Fremantle Dockers and marched undefeated through each week prepare for interstate matches, something Gippsland Power’s coach Damian of the finals under the new final 12 series which is very much part of the modern Carroll has become head coach of Box format. The Cannons proved too strong footballer. For the first time a final 12 Hill Hawks and Development Coach at for Gippsland Power in posting a 58 point series operated, which gave clubs a Hawthorn. Written by Adrian Dunn.

24 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 TAC CUP REPORT

TAC CUP SEASON 2010 CLUB INFORMATION Bendigo Pioneers 2010 FINAL LADDER P W L D B FF FOR AG PC PTS Office Address: Golden Square Oval, MacKenzie Dandenong Stingrays 16 13 3 0 0 0 1835 1036 177.12 52 Street, Golden Square 3555 Joined TAC Cup: 1993 Premiership: 0 Northern Knights 16 13 3 0 0 0 1810 1094 165.45 52 2010 Coach: Mark Ellis bendigopioneers.aflvic.com.au Geelong Falcons 16 13 3 0 0 0 1517 998 152.00 52 Calder Cannons Oakleigh Chargers 16 12 4 0 0 0 1707 1333 128.06 48 Office Address: Highgate Recreation Reserve, Craigieburn Sandringham Dragons 16 11 5 0 0 0 1260 1041 121.04 44 Joined TAC Cup: 1995 Premierships: 6 Gippsland Power 16 9 7 0 0 0 1411 1019 138.47 36 2010 Coach: Martin Allison caldercannons.aflvic.com.au Calder Cannons 16 9 7 0 0 0 1315 1283 102.49 36 Dandenong Stingrays Murray Bushrangers 16 8 8 0 0 0 1436 1576 91.12 32 Office Address: Shepley Oval, Pultney Street, Dandenong 3175 North Ballarat Rebels 16 6 10 0 0 0 1449 1456 99.52 24 Joined TAC Cup: 1992 Premierships: 0 2010 Coach: Graeme Yeats 16 5 11 0 0 0 1222 1567 77.98 20 dandenongstingrays.aflvic.com.au

Western Jets 16 3 13 0 0 0 1129 1616 69.86 12 Eastern Ranges Greater Western Sydney 16 2 14 0 0 0 1096 2070 52.95 8 Office Address: Kilsyth Recreation Reserve, Colchester Road, Kilsyth 3137 Bendigo Pioneers 16 1 15 0 0 0 1000 1952 51.23 4 Joined TAC Cup: 1992 Premierships: 1 2010 Coach: Darren Bewick easternranges.aflvic.com.au

Geelong Falcons Office Address: Highton Reserve, Roslyn Road, Highton 3216 Joined TAC Cup: 1992 Premierships: 2 2010 Coach: Paul Hood TAC CUP GRAND FINAL RESULTS & AWARDS geelongfalcons.aflvic.com.au

Grand Final Gippsland Power Morrish Medal (Best and Fairest) Office Address: Morwell Recreation Reserve. Calder Cannons 17.14 (116) def. Gippsland Jackson Sketcher (Sandringham Dragons) and Travers Street, Morwell 3840 Power 8.10 (58) Dyson Heppell (Gippsland Power) Joined TAC Cup: 1993 Premierships: 1 2010 Coach: TAC Medal (Best player in Grand Final) TAC Cup Coaches Award gippslandpower.aflvic.com.au Mitchell Wallis (Calder Cannons) Adam Marcon (Northern Knights) Greater Western Sydney Office Address: Umpires Leading Goalkicker Field: Michael Curtis, Brendan Hosking, Joined TAC Cup: 2010 Premierships: 0 Corey Buchan (Dandenong Stingrays, 48 Goals) 2010 Coach: Alan McConnell Robert Young gwsgiants.com.au Boundary: Tim Morrison, Graham Bergroth, Adrian Masterman-Smith Murray Bushrangers Office Address: 54 Ovens Street, Wangaratta 3677 Goal: Steven Piperno, Michael O’Donnell Joined TAC Cup: 1993 Premierships: 2 2010 Coach: Darren Ogier murraybushrangers.aflvic.com.au

North Ballarat Rebels Office Address: Eurkea Stadium, Creswick Road, North Ballarat 3550 Joined TAC Cup: 1993 Premierships: 1 2010 TAC CUP TEAM OF THE YEAR 2010 Coach: Glen Wilkins nthballaratrebels.aflvic.com.au

B Calder Cannons Cameron Delaney Geelong Falcons Andrew McInnes Dandenong Stingrays Northern Knights Office Address: Blake Park, Gower Street, Preston HB Dyson Heppell Gippsland Power Matthew Watson Calder Cannons Jackson Sketcher Sandringham Dragons 3072 Joined TAC Cup: 1992 Premierships: 4 2010 Coach: Anthony Allen C Shaun Atley Murray Bushrangers Josh Caddy Northern Knights Adam Kennedy Western Jets northernknights.aflvic.com.au

HF Dandenong Stingrays Lucas Cook North Ballarat Rebels Oakleigh Chargers Oakleigh Chargers Office Address: Warrawee Park, Warrigal Road, Oakleigh 3166 F Gippsland Power Darcy Barden Northern Knights Adam Marcon Northern Knights Joined TAC Cup: 1995 Premierships: 1 2010 Coach: Steve Grace R Northern Knights Mitch Hallahan Dandenong Stingrays Tom Liberatore Calder Cannons oakleighchargers.aflvic.com.au

Sandringham Dragons Int Geelong Falcons Tom Schneider Oakleigh Chargers Cameron O’Shea Eastern Ranges Office Address: DC Bricker Pavillion, , Beech Street, Caulfield South 3162 Anthony Miles Murray Bushrangers Joined TAC Cup: 1992 Premierships: 1 2010 Coach: Dale Tapping sandringhamdragons.aflvic.com.au Coach Dale Tapping Sandringham Dragons Western Jets Office Address: Level 2, 1 Mason Street, Newport 3015 Joined TAC Cup: 1992 Premierships: 0 2010 Coach: Steve Kretiuk westernjets.aflvic.com.au

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 25 VICTORIAN Competition GRADUATES THE ROAD TO SUCCESS

26 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 Passing the Test: Over 500 TAC Cup players took part in the AFL Victoria TAC Cup Fitness Testing Day in March.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 27 UMPIRING REPORT EVOLUTION OF UMPIRING

KEVIN MITCHELL AFL VICTORIA STATE DIRECTOR OF UMPIRES

“The pathway continues to provide Persistence, application and dedication We wait to see what the future holds for opportunities” are strong principles in all sports and it is them. As the football standard in both the VFL pleasing to see them in our VFL umpire Pleasing also to see that two 19 year olds and TAC Cup competitions continues ranks. Field umpire Michael Jennings, who and one 20 year old field umpire officiated to flourish, so too the opportunities for officiated in four VFL Senior Grand Finals, in the TAC Cup Grand Final. Just like the young umpires. was finally elevated to the AFL National players, we are certain their future looks With exposure to those levels of football Panel, which consists of only 32 field extremely exciting. it ensures young umpires can achieve umpires. Also Brett Ritchie, a field umpire Our continued association with Sportstec the standards that can enhance their full in the 2009 VFL Grand Final, was elevated and their respective software programs potential in advancing their careers. to AFL Rookie Umpire. greatly assist all aspects of our coaching Season 2010 saw the Umpiring While there were no vacancies on the and feedback processes. Instantly we are Department continue to use technology respective AFL Melbourne Based Boundary able to call upon the library of decisions to assist with the coaching process. All and Goal Umpire panels there are several and other aspects of game management umpires were able to utilise edited video umpires who are ready and waiting to take so that umpires can watch the vision and, highlights, which provides a platform of the next step in their career. It’s not always importantly, learn from it. learning outcomes that assist with fast an easy ride to reach the AFL level for Technology, particularly with its rapid tracking their development. both players and umpires, but we consider evolution, can only further assist with While umpiring will always have its ourselves in Victoria as a major contributor developing young umpires’ careers. controversial moments, which at times of umpires to the AFL National Panel. As another year closes we await with doesn’t please those involved, it must be Our 2010 VFL Senior Grand Final Umpires excitement the opportunities and remembered that without mistakes we all all have displayed the necessary potential challenges that 2011 will present for us would never learn and move forward in to move their careers forward towards the all within the industry and may the game trying to be better. AFL, all they need is an opportunity. continue to challenge us all.

Umpires: The 2010 VFL Grand Final umpires.

28 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 The Bounce: Field umpire Brett Ritchie in action in the VFL Grand Final.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 29 FINANCE REPORT Funding Football’s Heartland

STEPHEN SMITH AFL VICTORIA FINANCIAL CONTROLLER

Our great State of Victoria has long been regarded as the heartland of Australian Rules Football. 2010 Financial Position - Summary The great challenge is the allocating of our funds which REVENUE requires prudent management to ensure both fairness and $ $ above all, outcomes that are in the best interest of Victorian Item Football as a whole. Budget Actual The total funding of the business is spread over the following areas: AFL Grant & Other Direct Funding 6,011,000 6,011,000 Head Office Management and Support Talent Development Fees 2,599,030 2,589,644 Talent Programs State League Government Grants/Revenue 1,335,625 1,501,575 Umpiring

Government Partnership Programs Senior Leagues Managed by State 988,000 983,798 Coaching

Community Football U/age League Managed by State 2,052,480 1,995,256 Indigenous Multicultural NAB AFL Auskick Revenue 2,472,909 2,318,238 Metropolitan Development Programs Country Development Programs Other - Participation & Dev Revenue 805,312 758,696 School Programs AFL Player Appearances Other - Marketing & Sponsorship 1,230,748 1,286,491 Auskick Other - Interest 163,157 174,268 Female Football The combined 2010 Trading Result of both our entities, AFL Victoria and AFL Victoria Development Foundation was Other - Grants 32,500 32,500 a surplus of $113,857. The result exceeded our budgeted forecasts and was made possible by the diligent work of the Other 176,513 191,936 Board, Executive team and all our dedicated staff. I would like to acknowledge the great support all of these people have given me. In particular I would like to acknowledge our TOTAL REVENUE 17,867,274 17,843,402 out going CEO Peter Schwab who has given me significant support during his time at AFL Victoria. Net Surplus= $113,857 The Financial Position - Summary Report presented is

30 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 FINANCE REPORT produced on a standard template produced by the AFL which is submitted annually by all States of Australia. The EXPENDITURE $ $ AFL use the financial data to compare the performance of Item each State and is the basis of their funding allocations for the Budget Actual following financial year. Admin & Finance 1,645,000 1,739,838 Of AFL Victoria’s $18 million turnover, around 50% was AFL generated income from direct AFL Grants and Talent Communications & Media 185,199 169,782 Development Fees. The AFL in addition to this funding Senior Leagues managed by State 2,095,000 1,970,895 provides a cost effective shared services area carrying out various financial tasks such as Accounts Payable, Accounts U/age Leagues managed by State 4,710,321 4,598,310 Receivable, I.T and Payroll. In addition during 2010 AFL Development Expenditure & Grants “The combined 2010 Trading Result of both our - Development Staff (HQ & field staff) 2,023,343 1,954,280 entities, AFL Victoria and AFL Victoria Development Foundation was a surplus of $113,857. The result - NAB AFL Auskick 1,757,85 0 1,666,436 exceeded our budgeted forecasts...” - School programs 225,810 210,705

Victoria entered into a Marketing and Commercial Agreement - Female dev/programs/competitions 290,060 206,629 with the AFL to carry out various services such as securing new Commercial Partners and running major Company - Other Development activities 106,500 104,949 functions. The fruits of this agreement are now showing with significant commercial partners coming on board for the - Talent: State Academies & U16/18 teams 436,000 424,348 2011 year. - Coaching 198,550 234,804 Capital expenditure on infrastructure is imperative to the ongoing future of our game and over the past few years we - Umpiring 976,510 915,268 have achieved great outcomes, jointly funding projects with Government, Councils, Sponsors, the AFL, VFL and TAC Cup - Community Affiliate Grants or funding 1,291,000 1,275,544 clubs. We have some exciting projects on our books for 2011 and as at the time of writing this report are considering other - Indigenous 90,000 91,442 funding proposals we have received. - Multicultural 223,000 205,850 Going forward AFL Victoria and its members need to work together with the AFL to collectively secure funding Other - Marketing & Sponsorship 1,031,500 1,264,153 partnerships that will ultimately benefit all and sure up our financial viability. Other - Capital Transfer 563,030 696,312 I look forward to a successful financial future and working with everyone to achieve our goals going forward. TOTAL EXPENSES 17,848,673 17,729,545

Improved Facilities: The new facilities at Craigieburn.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 31 AFL VICTORIA ADMINISTRATON ADMINISTRATION

PETER SCHWAB CEO

SILVANA HURST DAVID HOWARD EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO CEO MARKETING & [email protected] COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER 8341 6011 [email protected] 8341 6007

STEPHEN SMITH MAtthew roberts FINANCIAL CONTROLLER manager new business [email protected] [email protected] 8341 6012 9643 1965

KAYLEE GEORGE CAROLINE CONNOR MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR Corporate partners [email protected] account manager 8341 6009 caroline.connor@.com.au 9643 1865

FIONA LIDDELL DANA HOWES HUMAN RESOURCES ADVISOR EVENTS CO-ORDINATOR SOUTHERN REGION [email protected] [email protected] 9643 1817 9643 1729

JOHN HOOK ELLIE CAMPBELL FOOTBALL OPERATIONS RECEPTIONIST MANAGER [email protected] [email protected] 8341 6000 8341 6004

leon harris ANTON GRBAC HIGH Performance manager HIGH Performance manager [email protected] [email protected] 8341 6016 8341 6002

LUKE GATTI SOPHIE TIMMS FOOTBALL OPERATIONS FOOTBALL OPERATIONS OFFICER CO-ORDINATOR [email protected] [email protected] 8341 6003 8341 6005

KEVIN MITCHELL ANGELA LINDSAY STATE DIRECTOR OF UMPIRING UMPIRING ASSISTANT [email protected] [email protected] 9416 1499 9416 1499

32 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 AFL VICTORIA GAME DEVELOPMENT GAME DEVELOPMENT

MANAGMENT MICk DANIHER Manager Development & Planning [email protected] 8341 6008

COMMUNITY FOOTBALL PETER McDOUGALL DARRYL COLLINGS Community Football Club Development Development Manager Manager [email protected] [email protected] 8341 6006 8341 6074

STEPHEN STEWART LAUREN BUNTING Footyweb Manager Community Football [email protected] Administration Assistant 8341 6031 [email protected] 8341 6071

ADMINISTRATION COACHING PROGRAMS FIONA HICKS STEVE TEAKEL Development Coaching Development administration ASSISTANT Manager [email protected] [email protected] 8341 6021 8341 6015

KICKSTART INDIGENOUS PROGRAMS MULTICULTURAL PROGRAMS LEON EGAN NICK HATZOLOU Kickstart Indigenous MULTICULTURAL Football Development Manager PROjecT co-ordinator [email protected] [email protected] 8341 6046 9643 1928

FEMALE PROGRAMS UMPIRING PROGRAMS CHYLOE KURDAS NEVILLE NASH Female Football Umpiring Development Development Manager Manager [email protected] [email protected] 8341 6042 8341 6067

JUNIOR PROGRAMS TREVOR ROBERTSON MICHAEL STINEAR Schools Development State Auskick Manager Manager [email protected] [email protected] 8341 6013 8341 6014

FAIR GAME, RESPECT MATTERS PROGRAM KEITH BURNS KATRINA LEASON PROGRAMS CO-ORDINATOR Fair Game, Respect Matters [email protected] Program Manager 8341 6019 [email protected] 8341 6075

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 37 AFL VICTORIA REGIONAL STAFF METRO WESTERN JETS Western SHANE SEXTON REGION MANAGER [email protected] 9390 0611

GRaeme pratt region development NORTH WEST manager [email protected] 9390 0611

CALDER CANNONS North West IAN KYTE REGION MANAGER [email protected] 9350 7112

LEN villani North western community WESTERN development manager [email protected] 9350 7407 CENTRAL

NORTHERN KNIGHTS Northern peter kennedy region Manager [email protected] 9478 3431

phiv demetriou northern community development manager [email protected] 9432 2427

tom delahunty northern community development officer [email protected] 9435 1264

EASTERN RANGES Eastern ANTHONY PARKIN REGION MANAGER [email protected] 9724 9499

SHAWN wilkey Eastern community development manager [email protected] 9762 3843

33 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 DANDENONG STINGRAYS South East Darren flanigan REGION MANAGER [email protected] 9791 8656

mark wheeler region development manager [email protected] 9791 8656

SANDRINGHAM DRAGONS NORTHERN RYAN O’connOr Inner Southern REGION MANAGER [email protected] 9532 8688

gary brown inner southern community development manager EASTERN [email protected] CENTRAL 9555 3982

OAKLEIGH CHARGERS stephen conole Central region Manager INNER SOUTHERN

mark smart region development manager [email protected] 9563 0588 SOUTH EAST MULTICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICERS eder-luiz martins NORTH WEST region [email protected] 8371 0253

NISH MOSES harmit SINGH WESTERN region northeRn region [email protected] [email protected] 9680 6166 8412 1018

michael nguyen michael roberts south east region central east region [email protected] [email protected] 9816 2209 9426 4414 COUNTRY

BENDIGO PIONEERS Bendigo ray byrne REGION MANAGER [email protected] 5444 5832

TONY McNAMARA region development manager BENDIGO [email protected] SUNRAYSIA 5444 4800

TREVOR MELLINGTON Region Development Manager CENTRAL Central Murray/NORTH CENTRAL [email protected] MURRAY & 5480 1686 NORTH CENTRAL GOULBURN MURRAY TREVOR RYAN WIMMERA Region Development Officer Sunraysia [email protected] BENDIGO 5024 8256 BALLARAT NORTH BALLARAT REBELS Ballarat PHIL PARTINGTON region Manager [email protected] SOUTH WEST 5339 0915 GEELONG LATROBE HAMPDEN GEOFF BURDETT VALLEY region development manager WIMMERA [email protected] 5382 6443

JOCK WHITING region development manager SOUTH WEST [email protected] 5572 3218

TIM SHEARER REGION DEVELOPMENT MANAGER BALLARAT [email protected] 5339 0916 GEELONG FALCONS MICHAEL TURNER Geelong REGION MANAGER [email protected] 5241 6986

ALAN THOMPSON region development manager HAMPDEN [email protected] 5562 1167

JOHN EDSALL region development manager GEELONG [email protected] 5241 6986

MURRAY BUSHRANGERS ANDREW CARSON Murray region Manager [email protected] 5722 1776 GOULBURN MURRAY NORTH EAST GREG LIDDELL region development BENDIGO BORDER manager GOULBURN MURRAY [email protected] 5822 2366

JEFF CHANDLER region development manager EAST GIPPSLAND NORTH EAST BORDER [email protected] LATROBE (02) 6040 6451 VALLEY Darren Ogier region development manager NORTH EAST BORDER (WANGARATTA) [email protected] 5722 1776

GIPPSLAND POWER PETER FRANCIS Gippsland REGION MANAGER [email protected] 5134 8133

Damian Carroll ROB REID Region Development Region Development Manager Manager East Gippsland [email protected] 5143 1749

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 36 MARKETING REPORT MARKETING REPORT BUILDING THE BRAND

DAVID HOWARD AFL VICTORIA MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

“If there is one overriding thing that I At the start of this year it was thought we dropped about 50% of sponsorship have found since coming on board, it is that the global financial crisis (GFC) revenue since the GFC, which largely the absolute commitment that everyone was not completely behind us and came from the loss of the naming rights at AFL Victoria has to delivering the there was some concern as to how it sponsor of the VFL. future of football in Victoria.” would continue to impact community Significantly, as we head into the When I joined AFL Victoria I was asked football and its ability to raise revenue. 2011 season, AFL Victoria is pleased if I came from a footy background, There is no doubt that we were facing to announce the signing of two key which in terms of my professional a ‘lag effect’ and while the economy long term sponsorship agreements. background, I didn’t. My family and I continues to improve, sponsorship Peter Jackson Melbourne will have the do go to the footy most weeks, but as a spending is still very tight, which has naming rights sponsorship of the VFL spectator you have no idea about what resulted in 2010 being even more and Acacia Training Solutions have it takes to keep the game as great as it difficult in terms of raising funds. come aboard as AFL Victoria’s premier is. Not only have my first nine months The first task in growing our partner. with AFL Victoria been extremely busy, sponsorship revenue is maintaining the AFL Victoria will continue working with but it has also been a great eye opener. revenue that we already have. While we the AFL and its new business manager, If there is one overriding thing that I were not immune to key sponsorships Matt Roberts, to target new sponsorship have found since coming on board, it is being put under the microscope to opportunities. the absolute commitment that everyone ascertain if there is enough bang for Government sponsorship is extremely at AFL Victoria has to delivering the the buck, in most cases our corporate important and has become even more future of football in Victoria. partners are continuing existing so during the uncertain economic The funding AFL Victoria receives from sponsorships or have committed to times. Our Government partners have sponsors is our second largest revenue new two and three year partnerships. continued to provide great support as stream. In fact, second only to the Even so, as economies got tougher we provide a much wanted avenue to funding we receive from the AFL. and marketers’ belts were tightened reach the Victorian football community.

Partnerships: ‘Go for your life’ were an AFL Victoria partner again in 2010.

38 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 MARKETING REPORT

The AFL Victoria Brand. During the last six months we carried out a lot of work to develop the essence and Pathway attributes of the AFL Victoria brand. Tradition Integrity As shown, the outcome is the brand essence ‘Victoria is the heart and soul HERITAGE of footy’ surrounded by the core brand attributes of Heritage, Leadership and Innovative Supportive Community. The heart and The aim is for everyone at AFL Victoria soul of footy to better understand what our brand LE Y stands for which will allow us to better AD IT communicate our brand with ER UN Excellence SHIP COMM Opportunity One look, One feel and One Voice. Better understanding our brand will lead to a stronger brand for our current and future Demanding Responsible commercial partners to associate with, whether that is for reasons of association or the potential sale of their goods or services.

AFL Victoria would like to thank the following partners

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 39 DEVELOPMENT REPORT FROM THE GROUND UP

MICK DANIHER AFL VICTORIA MANAGER DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING

Throughout 2010 AFL Victoria AFL national competition, for example, continues to grow with player numbers Development worked closely with helping to drive AFL attendances. In reaching 4,350 including a 27% increase schools, leagues, clubs, NAB AFL Auskick fact the success of the AFL national in youth girl teams from 2009. The Youth centers with support from the AFL and competition and the game at the grass Girls Academy Program implemented in AFL clubs to deliver a wide range of grass roots level are interdependent. conjunction with the Essendon Football roots development programs. One of the consequences of continuing Club and the inaugural AFL National Development Program objectives that growth has been the necessity to recruit Youth Girls Under 18 Championships were comprise AFL Victoria’s Development Plan more umpires to officiate in an increasing major highlights in 2010. are all aimed at achieving the three pillars number of games. The success of umpire A total of 104,625 primary and secondary of the organisation’s mission to: development programs such as the school students took part in school • Sustain and grow participation, Umpire Mentor Program supported competitions in both the less than • Provide quality environments for by the industry wide “Umpiring Is six weeks and greater than six weeks enjoyment of participants, and Everyone’s Business Campaign” led by competition categories. This is 675 • Contribute to the health and wellbeing of the AFL has contributed to the success players less than 2009 indicating the all Victorian communities ongoing challenge to continue to engage students and their teachers in playing Delivery on program objectives is the “The magnitude of the depth of football during school hours. However responsibility of Program managers who the total number of teachers registering oversee the Development Department participation at the grass roots in the AFL School Ambassador Program Units that include: Community, Coaching, level is best illustrated by the increased by 9% with 1,509 teachers Umpiring, Female Football, Schools, NAB 232,288 players involved at assisting AFL Victoria to promote football AFL Auskick, Cultural Strategy, Indigenous in schools. and Multicultural Football. A network of clubs, NAB AFL Auskick centres Significantly the AFL Victoria Sports 19 Regional Development Managers and and schools...” Development Program involving students five Multicultural Development Officers undertaking VCAL/VET studies grew to 10 are accountable for delivery of programs of umpire recruitment campaigns. 520 centers involving 235 students compared in local communities. A summary of the new umpires joined umpiring groups in to 91 in 2009. achievements of each development unit is 2010, the highest in 13 years. Through the Australian Football Coaches outlined in this section of the report. The contribution of AFL clubs and their Association 75 level 1 Coach Education The magnitude of the depth of players supporting development strategies courses were conducted throughout participation at the grass roots level is best can’t be underestimated. A total of the state involving 3,232 first year illustrated by the 232,288 players involved 10,744 AFL Player Appearance hours coaches. For the first time an online at clubs, NAB AFL Auskick centres and were conducted in local schools, Auskick coaching course for junior coaches was schools playing in competition in excess centers and junior clubs. 3,106 hours implemented. The 19 regional branches of of six weeks duration. This number is were conducted in 50 country towns the Coaches Association provided ongoing closer to 300,000 when players playing across Victoria. A key strategy utilising resource support, training seminars and in competitions less than six weeks are AFL players is to target primary schools Coach of the Year programs. combined. early in term one to promote the NAB Volunteer training programs conducted by Since 2000 player participation has AFL Auskick program. This year 48,322 AFL Victoria, the VCFL and metropolitan increased by 22%, or 42,337 players - an children were enrolled in 660 Auskick leagues engaged 7,418 participants from average of 4,233 players per year. centers across the state, 7% of these across the state. High participation numbers at the grass children were young girls. As the diversity of our population roots level complement the success of the The interest in women and girls football increases so does the importance of

40 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 Player Appearances: A total of 10,744 AFL player appearance hours were conducted in 2010.

the Multicultural Football Program. This demographic change, flexible leisure opportunities across all areas of the game. year 5,000 students took part in the pursuits, stretched budgets, and a lack of AFL Victoria Major Funding Partners Multicultural School Football Program time, are all challenges confronting AFL The AFL: Critical financial support and from 52 primary schools, 10 secondary Victoria Development. resources are provided by the AFL to schools and four tertiary institutions. Continuing to deliver the same assist AFL Victoria Development conduct 25,200 children and their parents development programs during the its programs aimed at nurturing the game from diverse multicultural communities next decade as we have in the past is at the grassroots level. Importantly, the involving 185 groups were guests of the unlikely to produce the desired growth AFL also provides support by using its AFL at selected AFL games. results. With this in mind AFL Victoria leverage capabilities to negotiate programs The AFL also provided 60 young in conjunction with the AFL initiated such as the National Insurance Scheme indigenous footballers with an opportunity reviews into the future direction of female made available to leagues and clubs. to play at half time of the Richmond v and multicultural football, two programs AFL Clubs: Thousands of children at local Essendon game during the ‘Dreamtime identified as critical potential growth clubs and schools enjoy the experience at the G’ promotion. The Kickstart segments. of having an AFL player visit their Indigenous Future Leaders Camp Over the next 20 years, 50% of Australia’s communities. AFL clubs and their players provided the first step for eight Indigenous population growth will be driven by are involved in a number of activities Victorian boys to be selected to play in immigration. Two thirds of these will arrive to support both participation and fan the AFL’s Flying Boomerangs team that from Asia, 60% will settle in Victoria. development programs. played in the Oceana Championships held Recent projections by Macroplan Australia Department of Planning and Community in Tonga. show that migrant families will overtake Development: Funding provided by the As part of AFL Victoria’s Cultural Strategy the number of locally born families by Department via Sport and Recreation Development 41 clubs were engaged 2025. Attracting people from diverse Victoria enable essential resources being in the Fair Game, Respect Matters pilot backgrounds to Australian Football will be made available for new facilities and program conducted in the Northern a key priority over the next decade. upgrade of established venues around Football League and Essendon District Providing women and girls with options the state. Furthermore state sporting Football League. The Alcohol Policy and opportunities to participate in football association funding is assisting the Development initiative to evaluate alcohol is also a key future direction priority. development of an online mapping system reduction policies introduced in selected In 2011 total female population aged and various recognition programs for leagues was also conducted as part of this 5 – 39 years will reach 5.14 million. The volunteers. strategy. game is currently only capturing 1.5% VicHealth: AFL Victoria Development Following record growth trends over the of this potential market compared to and VicHealth have had a long history of last decade across all player segments the 11.4% of males. Expanding participation working together to build participation pressure is on to find new ways to engage opportunities underpinned by inclusive and major public health concerns. more of the community to retain and grow strategies that engage the female The key programs conducted in 2010 participation. Contemporary lifestyles, population will present significant included:

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 41 DEVELOPMENT REPORT COMMUNITY FOOTBALL

• Participation in Community Sport and Recreation (PICSAR) - a program aimed Total Player Participation at increasing football participation in under – represented population groups involving children and families from multicultural and indigenous Community Club (136,000) communities, disability groups and lower socio-economic communities. Auskick (48,322) • Fair Game, Respect Matters - a culture change program being Schools (40,425) conducted with the support of the Northern and the Essendon District Football Leagues and their clubs aimed Recreation (242) at providing more inclusive, safe and welcoming football environments for Veterans (2,425) women and girls. Club drivers appointed by the clubs are making good progress with a number of initiatives aimed at Female (4,874) insuring the clubs policies and practices along with their facilities are more conducive for the involvement of women and girls. • Alcohol Policy Development - is another cultural change strategy that focused Participation Growth 2000-2010 on evaluating low alcohol reduction policies introduced by certain leagues in 22% growth between 2000 and 2010 conjunction with La Trobe University. Melbourne Cricket Club Foundation: Through the ‘G Footy’ partnership AFL 250,000 Victoria and the Melbourne Cricket Club Foundation provide a comprehensive menu of primary and secondary school 200,000 programs designed for implementation both in the classroom and in the school playgrounds. The partnership also 150,000 promotes the wonderful opportunities for schools attending the MCC National Sports Museum promoted via the AFL 100,000 School Ambassador network. ‘Go for your life’: AFL Victoria works with the ‘Go for your life’ team in conjunction 50,000 with the Department of Health to promote important messages aimed at increasing physical activity and healthy 0 eating to children and families. Football activities provide the vehicle to promote 2000 2003 2006 2008 2010 the benefits of providing healthy and physically active programs that lead to a healthy lifestyle. Department of Justice: with the support of Year Total Participants the AFL Coaches Association, AFL Victoria Development promoted the Championship 2000 189,951 Moves message to players through the coaching networks. ‘Real champs look 2003 200,813 after their mates,’ was the key theme promoted through the campaign. 2006 219,439 EastLink: With support of ConnectEast AFL Victoria was able to conduct the EastLink football development program 2008 212,729 which involved primary schools along the EastLink corridor and selected VFL clubs. 2010 232,288

42 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 COMMUNITY FOOTBALL IN THE HEARTLAND

PETER McDOUGALL AFL VICTORIA COMMUNITY FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

The future growth of football depends such as governance, administration, Club Management Training Program on the quality of league and club development, judiciary systems and Volunteer training programs continue environments coupled with their aggregation are the core functions to be conducted across the state with capacity to administer the game at the of the QLMP. Pleasingly, all leagues 7,418 volunteers participating in league grassroots level. continue to improve each year. For the and club training workshops during The Community Football Unit is focused first time, mandatory requirements were the year. These workshops focused on providing community leagues implemented and must be met before a on administration training and social and clubs with the support, training league may qualify for their funding. education topics such as Alcohol and and resources required to fulfill their Drug Education and the Fair Game roles, enhance the overall quality of “The Community Football Respect Matters Program. community football and encourage Quality Club Program increased participation. Significantly, Unit is focused on providing The Quality Club Program is now a this was highlighted by the growth in community leagues and clubs national program and for the first time participation in Victoria with 104 new with the support, training and this year clubs could apply for their teams established in 2010. Bronze Level accreditation online as part During the year several major programs resources required to fulfill of the AFL Community Club website. It were undertaken. These included: their roles, enhance the overall is very pleasing to see an increase in Quality League Management Program quality of community football the number of clubs participating in the It was pleasing in 2010 to see all AFL and encourage increased program. In 2010 more than 120 clubs Victoria members achieve the minimum participation.” participated in the QCP. Congratulations standard of 80%. Key areas of operation to the Ferntree Gully Junior Football

Crowd Support: The Youth Girls competition was supported well both on and off the field.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 43 COMMUNITY FOOTBALL

Club and the Emerald Football Club for package, participated in the Grand finals were played at Preston City Oval achieving Gold Level accreditation this Final parade, and attended the official and AFL Victoria would like to thank year. AFL Grand Final Luncheon at the MCG Gary O’Sullivan and his staff at the Through this program, clubs are before the Grand Final. Northern Bullants for their support of recognised and rewarded for creating AFL Victoria Metropolitan the Championships. Congratulations quality football environments, which to the Yarra Junior Football League for Junior Championships were welcoming and inclusive. another outstanding carnival winning AFL Victoria supports metropolitan both Division 1 Grand Finals, also to Volunteer of the Year leagues by conducting a carnival for the Eastern Football League for winning Congratulations to the 2010 Volunteer the under-14 and under-15 age groups. both Division 2 Grand Finals. of the Year, Len ‘Spud’ Murphy from The AFL Victoria Youth Girls teams the . Len has are now a permanent fixture of the been a tireless worker for more than 30 Championships and congratulations years at Spotswood and is still actively to the Dandenong & District Junior Junior Development: Northern FL and South East Juniors in action in the Metropolitan Junior involved with the club today. Courtesy FL (formerly, South-East Youth Girls) Championships. of the AFL Len won an accommodation for winning the grand final. The grand

44 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 COMMUNITY FOOTBALL COMMUNITY FOOTBALL RESULTS

COUNTRY FOOTBALL Murray FL North Central FL Moama 19.15 (129) def. Wycheproof-Narraport 13.9 (87) def. 2010 Grand Final results Mulwala 6.10 (46) Boort 6.7 (43) Alberton FL Foster 13.20 (98) def. Ovens & King FL Sunraysia FL Stony Creek 11.8 (74) Tarrawingee 15.9 (99) def. Robinvale 21.12 (138) def. Milawa 15.7 (97) Irymple 11.10 (76) East Gippsland FL Bairnsdale 20.15 (135) def. Ovens & Murray FL Wimmera FL Lindenow 10.15 (75) Albury 13.11 (89) def. Horsham 17.16 (118) def. Yarrawonga 11.13 (79) Nhill 8.12 (60) Ellinbank & District FL Nar Nar Goon 11.6 (72) def. Picola & District FL (NW) Ballarat FL Cora Lynn 9.10 (64) Strathmerton 5.12 (42) def. Lake Wendouree 18.9 (117) def. Yarroweyah 4.4 (28) Ballarat 9.8 (62) Mid Gippsland FL Trafalgar 13.9 (97) def. Picola & District FL (SE) Bellarine FL Morwell East 6.10 (46) Shepparton East 17.15 (115) def. Drysdale 13.13 (91) def. Tungamah 10.7 (67) Geelong Amateur 11.17 (83) MPNFL (Casey Cardinia) Narre Warren 13.24 (102) def. Tallangatta & District FL Central Highlands FL Beaconsfield 11.11 (77) Beechworth 18.9 (117) def. Hepburn 18.11 (119) def. Yackandandah 12.5 (77) Daylesford 8.3 (51) MPNFL (Peninsula) Frankston YCW 16.11 (107) def. Upper Murray FL Colac & District FNL Seaford 9.9 (63) Bullioh 6.4 (40) def. Irrewarra - Beeac 11.10 (76) def. Federal 0.3 (3) Birregurra 11.8 (74) MPNFL (Nepean) Sorrento 17.16 (118) def. Bendigo FL Geelong & District FL Somerville 11.7 (73) Golden Square 11.21 (87) def. Bell Post Hill 21.23 (149) def. South Bendigo 8.10 (58) Werribee Centrals 6.10 (46) North Gippsland FNL Sale City 17.16 (118) def. Central Murray FL Geelong FL Rosedale 13.11 (89) Kerang 15.7 (97) def. South Barwon 11.14 (80) def. Swan Hill 11.18 (84) Bell Park 7.13 (55) Omeo District FL Swifts Creek 22.12 (144) def. Golden Rivers FL Hampden FNL Bruthen 13.10 (88) Wandella 9.8 (62) def. Warrnambool 8.13 (61) def. Nullawil 5.7 (37) South Warrnambool 5.14 (44) Gippsland League Maffra 17.17 (119) def. Heathcote & District FL Lexton Plains FL Drouin 15.11 (101) Heathcote 8.8 (56) def. Skipton 16.15 (111) def. Lockington-Bamawm United 5.9 (39) Lexton FNC 3.8 (26) YVMDFL (Div 1) Woori Yallock 17.16 (118) def. Horsham District FL Maryborough Castlemaine Gembrook Cockatoo 17.8 (110) Kalkee 25.15 (165) def. Maldon 11.12 (78) def. Harrow Balmoral 8.5 (53) Avoca FNC 9.10 (64) YVMDFL (Div 2) Yarra Glen 14.12 (96) def. Loddon Valley FL Mininera & District FL Yarra Junction 5.13 (43) Bridgewater 27.6 (168) def. Glenthompson-Dunkeld 13.8 (86) def. Calivil United 7.11 (53) Tatyoon 4.13 (37) Goulburn Valley FL Shepparton United 12.12 (84) def. Mallee FL South West District FNL Kyabram 8.12 (60) Beulah 14.14 (98) def. Coleraine 11.13 (79) def. Ouyen United 10.12 (72) Westerns 9.10 (64) Kyabram District FL Nagambie 12.17 (89) def. Millewa FL Warrnambool & DFNL Undera 10.14 (74) Gol Gol 14.5 (89) def. Kolora-Noorat 11.6 (72) def. Bambill 5.18 (48) Dennington FNC 9.10 (64)

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 45 COMMUNITY FOOTBALL

Western Border FL Southern FL Moorabbin Saints JFL (U-17 Div 1) West Gambier 11.6 (72) def. (Div 1) St Pauls 10.10 (70) def. Millicent 10.9 (69) St Kilda City 12.8 (80) def. St Peters 9.10 (64) Chelsea Heights 7.11 (53) South West District FNL (Div 2) Yarra JFL (Colts 1) Coleraine 11.13 (79) def. Clayton 10.9 (69) def. St Marys 9.3 (57) def. Westerns 9.10 (64) Oakleigh District 5.13 (43) Ashburton 7.9 (51) (Div 3) Warrnambool & DFNL Hampton 14.7 (91) def. NAB AFL U/18 CHAMPIONSHIPS Kolora-Noorat 11.6 (72) def. Mount Waverley 6.4 (40) 2010 results Dennington FNC 9.10 (64) Vic Metro 11.8 (74) def. Western Region FL Western Australia 8.7 (55) Western Border FL (Div 1) Vic Metro 18.12 (120) def. West Gambier 11.6 (72) def. Albion 14.11 (95) def. Northern Territory 4.7 (31) Millicent 10.9 (69) Spotswood 11.12 (78) Vic Country 16.9 (105) def. (Div 2) Vic Metro 9.9 (63) VCFL REPRESENTATIVE MATCHES Nth Footscray 11.13 (79) def. Vic Country 10.11 (71) def. Parkside 10.14 (74) 2010 Grand Final results Western Australia 9.11 (65) South Australia 8.7 (55) def. Under 19 VAFA Vic Country 7.9 (51) VAFA 15.11 (101) def. (A Section) VCFL 11.11 (77) Old Xaverians 11.8 (74) def. Collegians7.12 (54) NAB AFL U/16 CHAMPIONSHIPS Major Leagues (B Section) 2010 results VCFL 23.13 (151) def. Old Carey 19.14 (128) def. Vic Metro 11.4 (70) def. SA 9.12 (66) Old Haileybury 14.6 (90) Vic Country 4.10 (40) (C Section) METROPOLITAN FOOTBALL Beaumaris 10.11 (71) def. 2010 Grand Final results Caulfield Grammarians 9.16 (70) NAB AFL U/18 All-Australian (D1 Section) Eastern FL Werribee 17.12 (114) def. Adam Treloar – Dandenong Stingrays (Div 1) Collegians 7.12 (54) Noble Park 11.21 (87) def. Andrew Gaff – Oakleigh Chargers (D2 Section) Scoresby 6.9 (45) Anthony Miles – Murray Bushrangers Banyule 9.12 (66) def. (Div 2) Old Paradians 5.10 (40) Ben Jacobs – Sandringham Dragons Mulgrave 11.10 (76) def. (D3 Section) Dyson Heppell – Gippsland Power Bayswater 7.9 (51) La Trobe Uni 12.8 (80) def. Jayden Pitt – Geelong Falcons (Div 3) St Johns Old Collegians 11.13 (79) Upper Ferntree Gully 12.12 (84) def. Lucas Cook – North Ballarat Rebels (D4 Section) Doncaster 10.6 (66) Matthew Watson – Calder Cannons Monash Gryphons 13.12 (90) def. (Div 4) Mt Lilydale 11.8 (74) Mitchell Hallahan – Dandenong Stingrays Templestowe 20.10 (130) def. Shaun Atley – Murray Bushrangers Ferntree Gully Eagles 11.19 (85) Victorian Women’s FL Josh Caddy – Northern Knights

(Premier) Essendon District FL Thomas Liberatore – Calder Cannons Darebin 9.8 (63) def. (A Grade) – Vic Country (Coach) Diamond Creek 4.7 (31) Maribyrnong Park 12.18 (90) def. (Premier Reserves) Greenvale 10.13 (73) Darebin 8.8 (56) def. (B Grade) AIS – AFL Academy Members St Kilda 3.7 (25) Taylors Lakes 16.14 (110) def. (North West) Pascoe Vale 10.12 (72) – Calder Cannons Sunbury 7.12 (54) def. – Calder Cannons Lalor Park Stars 4.1 (25) Northern FL (South East) Matthew Haynes – Northern Knights (Div 1) South Mornington 7.6 (48) def. Liam McBean – Calder Cannons W Preston Lakeside 13.9 (87) def. Parkdale 1.2 (8) Heidelberg 9.12 (66) Jonathan O’Rourke – Calder Cannons – Northern Knights (Div 2) JUNIOR LEAGUE Whittlesea 9.17 (71) def. – Oakleigh Chargers 2010 Grand Final results Lower Plenty 9.3 (57) Will Hoskin-Elliot – Western Jets (Div 3) Dandenong & District JFL (U-16) Elliot Kavanagh – Western Jets Hurstbridge 7.10 (52) def. (Div 1) – Dandenong Stingrays Parkside 2.7 (19) Narre Warren Black 13.1 (91) def. – Dandenong Stingrays Berwick White 11.5 (71) Riddell District FL (Div 2) – Geelong Falcons Riddell Football Club 12.8 (80) def. Endeavour Hills 20.12 (132) def. – Bendigo Pioneers Diggers Rest Football Club 9.9 (63) Narre Warren White 8.5 (53) – Dandenong Stingrays

46 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 MULTICULTURAL FOOTBALL BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS

NICK HATZOGLOU AFL VICTORIA MULTICULTURAL FOOTBALL PROJECT COORDINATOR

AFL Victoria’s Multicultural Program is All-Nations teams. Evaluation of the first five years a tool to build community capacity and One under 12 and one under 15 team of the Multicultural Program was enhanced social inclusion for newly represented the All-Nations in the regional conducted by Red Elephant Projects. arrived and existing Australians from V/Line Championships in the Dandenong A comprehensive report was tabled culturally diverse backgrounds. region. 60 boys from 24 different cultural outlining the successes, challenges and The Multicultural Program aims to backgrounds took part. the next phase of the program. win a better share of this segment by providing opportunities for people from World team competed in the Participation at Community Festivals. culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) National Under 16’s Championships Reached more than 96,000 community backgrounds to get involved in Australian Three players from Victoria’s multicultural members with about 31,000 active Football. As Australia’s most popular sector were part of the squad: Mella participants and 65,000 non active national sport Australian Rules Football Opiew (Sudanese), Mohammad El participants who participated, observed is in a strong position to gain significant Ebrahimi (Iraqi) and Komang Sujaya or witnessed our presence at the cultural representation from the multicultural (Balinese, Indonesian). events and community festivals: sector. African Affair Festival; Chinese New Year In 2010, the Multicultural Schools Football “In 2010, the Multicultural Festival; Game On Festival; Springvale Program was implemented in 98 schools and Box Hill Lunar New Year festivals; (73 primary, 10 secondary, 7 tertiary and Schools Football Program was Welcome to the AFL presentations 8 English language schools) and exposed implemented in 98 schools with AMES Flagstaff students; AFL 7,350 students to Australia’s indigenous (73 primary, 10 secondary, presentation to 150 Swinburne University game. Each student took part in 10 International students and AMES Men’s Australian Football experiences as part of 7 tertiary and 8 English Camp. their induction into the game. language schools) and exposed Enhanced relationships with The AFL Victoria Multicultural Program is a partnership with the Victorian 7,350 students to Australia’s Multicultural Media. Government, the AFL indigenous game.” AFL Media accreditation paved the way and AFL clubs , for Turkish Report, Sameway Newspaper Collingwood, Essendon, Richmond, and (China), Neos Kosmos Newspaper Largest ever Australian Citizenship (Greek), and Ambassador Newspaper Hawthorn. Multicultural Development ceremony took place at the MCG. Officers are playing a key role in (African and Arabic), SBS Radio and In partnership with Collingwood engaging culturally diverse communities 3ZZZ. As well there was extensive media FC, Department of Immigration and with AFL clubs Essendon (Eder – Luiz coverage in Arabic press and radio, SBS Citizenship and the MCG, about 5,000 Martins), Western Bulldogs (Nish Moses), TV and Radio, Sri Lankan, Indian, and people attended with 2,600 taking out Richmond (Michael Roberts), Hawthorn Japanese press. Australian Citizenship. (Michael Nguyen) and Collingwood Other program highlights for 2010 (Harmit Singh). Multicultural Program nominated • In partnership with the Australian Sports AFL Multicultural Program – for the prestigious Beyond Sport Commission, the “All-Cultures” program was launched. Federal Sports Minister Highlights 2010: International Awards The awards recognise projects around Kate Ellis was the official guest. Multicultural Program Camp the world that use sport to address • Professional development training for The Melbourne Camp took place this year social issues within communities. David 25 staff in multicultural development, during AFL Grand Final week reaching Matthews and Jason Mifsud represented leadership, foresight perspectives and 145 trialists and 80 camp attendees. the program in Chicago USA. the future.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 47 COACH EDUCATION

Multicultural: Australian Football is in a strong position to gain representation from the multicultural sector.

• About 25,000 people - 162 different played competitive football for the first • About 850 students were involved in groups - from migrant communities time. Presented Tri/Short Cup to the Multicultural Schools Cup as well as 37 have visited an AFL game, most for the winning team in the Southern Dragons separate tours conducted at AFL club first time. v Sandown Cobras Division 3 Southern venues reaching 1,100 participants. • More than 300 children from the League. • Students throughout Victoria Multicultural Schools Football Program • A total of 68 schools and 3,990 participating in the Multicultural Schools participated in half time NAB AFL participants visited the National Sports Football Program received about 5,000 Auskick Rules and Grid Games on the Museum and toured the MCG. NAB AFL Auskick footballs. MCG and Etihad Stadium. • Six new NAB AFL Auskick centers were • A partnership with Sports without • In 2010, 95 predominantly Asian players established with about 250 participants Borders continued to provide grants for were registered to play in the Southern coming from high rise housing estates and young people to play Australian Football. Football League. Some of these players high cultural diverse background areas.

48 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 COACH EDUCATION THE GAME FOR EVERYONE

STEVE TEAKEL AFL VICTORIA COACHING DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Victorian Coach Education Programs and state league coaches selected to groups of up to 15, which included are a key ingredient in creating a attend the course operating at youth and teaching Australian Football skills, basic positive match day environment and senior levels. Listening to presentations coaching methodology and planning the development of quality community, from Denis Pagan, , Stan conducted via the NAB AFL Auskick school football and high performance Alves, Damian Carroll and Brendan program. coaches. McCartney inspired the group who then • Leadership Coaching Courses for Through the activities conducted by had a number of assessment items Students was an extension of the regional branches of the Australian to complete including training diaries, Orientation to Coaching Course Football Coaches Association (AFCA) practical sessions and having a coaching available to secondary school students, coaches are provided with additional mentor for the season. with a focus on coaching principles, ideas and information to continue to grow High Performance coaches who work in practical skills and developing training their coaching expertise. the TAC Cup, VFL and AFL competitions sessions. were selected to attend an annual course • In secondary schools and the AFL Coach Education conducted by AFL Victoria in conjunction Victoria SEDA program where students In 2010, the coach education program with the AFL at the AIS in Canberra. are undertaking studies in Sport and aimed to provide an opportunity Throughout the year more than 400 Recreation a Level One accreditation to develop a range of skills and course has been designed and understanding of a coach’s role. These delivered to over 300 students. included season planning, conducting “More than 60 coach In partnership with Cricket Victoria, a training session, skill analysis, team education courses were AFL Victoria has developed a Dual play and tactics. The courses are also Recognition Level 1 Junior Coaching targeted to the age group participants are conducted with nearly 3,000 Course, which has been conducted at coaching. participants achieving a Level the Geelong, Warrnambool and Burwood More than 60 coach education courses campuses of Deakin University as well were conducted with nearly 3,000 One accreditation certificate as La Trobe University – Bendigo and in participants achieving a Level One recognised throughout Australia.” Horsham. accreditation certificate recognised More than 700 participants attended throughout Australia. coaches have been re-accredited for coaching orientation sessions conducted The Level 1 Coaching Course was another four years as they continue to via the NAB AFL Auskick program. conducted in four streams - AFL enjoy their coaching and contribute to Additionally, about 160 tertiary students Auskick, Junior Club, Youth and Senior. the development of young players. and 85 teachers attended AFL Victoria These courses formed the minimum Several market specific courses were Coaching programs in 2010. mandatory requirements to coach in all available for teachers, tertiary students AFL Victoria affiliated leagues. Australian Football Coaches and female coaches including a number An online course for Auskick and Junior of preliminary coaching programs: Association (AFCA) Club coaches was introduced as a trial in • Awareness to Coaching Sessions The Victorian branch of the Australian 2010. It proved successful as it allowed introduced participants to the Football Coaches Association (AFCA) coaches to complete a range of topics management of a small group, acts as a “coaching community” to in their own time, while at the course basic skill teaching and supervision provide ongoing support, development they engaged in a more specialised skill conducted via the NAB AFL Auskick and resources to prospective and based program. program. existing coaches throughout the state. The Level 2 Coaching Course was • Orientation to Coaching was an Working with and Paul conducted in November, with community extended introduction to coaching Armstrong from the AFL Coaches

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 49 AFL RECREATIONAL FOOTBALL

The Huddle: Gippsland Power coach Damian Carroll instructs his side during the 2010 TAC Cup Grand Final.

Association, regional AFCA branches Championships Moves Coach of the Lifetime Achievement in Coaching and provided community coaches the Year Awards recognised coaching Coach Education: Keith Burns opportunity to attend Australian Football service and excellence in the following With former St Kilda coach seminars conducted by AFL assistant areas of community coaching: NAB AFL as President, the objective of the coaches. Auskick, Junior Club, Youth, Female, Association is to lead and act in the Through the AFL Coaching program, Senior, VFL and TAC Cup. The 2010 best interest of coach education and AFCA Victoria members receive a winners were: Auskick: Rod Vella coaching support and to uphold the regular electronic newsletter - AFL (Hillside Auskick) integrity, quality and value of coaching Community Development - with Junior: Paul Harvey (Hawthorn Citizens in the football community. The Victorian updates regarding coaching. Each branch of AFCA is administered regional branch has produced coaching through its 19 regional branches and newsletters to support the ongoing “...the AFL Coaches has a membership of more than 9,000 education of its coaches. Association offered the coaches in Victoria. In partnership with the Department opportunity for coaches to be Each regional branch of AFCA is of Justice, the Championship Moves a “coaching community” with a campaign was successfully delivered an ‘AFL coach for a Day’ and committee headed up by an AFL through a number of key coaching attend training and preparation Victoria Development Manager to programs including the AFL coaches oversee the production of a local seminars, Level One senior and youth sessions at an AFL club.” coaching newsletter, conducting courses, and regional and state Coach regional Coach of the Year Awards, of the Year awards nights. As an Hawks Junior Football Club) maintenance of a coaching resource incentive for coaches to go back to Youth: Craig Skinner (Newborough centre and the fulfilment of regional their community clubs and deliver a Junior Football Club) coaching seminars. Championship Moves workshop the Senior: Troy Moncur (Robinvale Football AFL Coaches Association offered the Netball Club) opportunity for coaches to be an ‘AFL Female: Peta Searle (Darebin Women’s FC) coach for a Day’ and attend training and TAC Cup: Dale Tapping (Sandringham preparation sessions at an AFL club. Dragons FC) In 2010 the AFCA Victoria VFL: Gerard Fitzgerald (North Ballarat FC)

50 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 AFL RECREATIONAL FOOTBALL

The AFL Recreational Football motto: Strong demand has been experienced State Youth Games (28 teams) where ‘the game for everyone’ perfectly from several community sectors with groups have participated in a one day outlines the main objective of this more than 9,000 participants playing program. relatively new initiative. the game in the community, at school With the support of the VicHealth The game is enjoyed by all who have or as part of special one day events. funded PICSAR program, an a passion and interest in Australian Significant growth was achieved emphasis has been placed on Football, with a focus on health, fitness, throughout the state with single and introducing multicultural communities safety and the social aspects of team mixed gender community to the game of Australian Football via sport all the while maintaining a strong competitions kicking off in both AFL Recreational Football, especially relationship with the traditional game. in the Goulburn Murray and Northern AFL Recreational Football was “AFL Recreational Football regions. The focus has been in specifically designed to increase primary and secondary schools, along participation in football and physical was specifically designed with community ‘come and try’ days activity in the wider community. It to increase participation in as part of school holiday programs has been modified so it is a game all football and physical activity in and community festivals. the family can play. All contact has Primary and secondary schools have been removed, it is not too physically the wider community.” been especially interested in AFL demanding, it can be played by all ages Recreational Football with the game and genders, and it emphasises social metropolitan and regional Victoria. being played by more than 7,700 aspects - fun and safety. Strong participation has been students and teachers. It has become The game is designed to be flexible in recorded at competitions conducted a common feature of AFL Sports its structure and may be adapted to by the Melbourne and Western Education (SEPEP) programs, the suit the age and ability of participants, Bulldogs Football Clubs, along with annual physical education and health as well as available playing space. An the Koonwarra/ RSL Cricket teachers ACHPER conference, house AFL Recreational Football resource kit – Club and an AFL Victoria conducted competitions and lunchtime activities containing goalposts, ground markers, competition at Box Hill. because of its ability to attract a bibs, tag belts and football – has been It is suitable for special events and has wider participation. AFL Recreational developed to support both community featured prominently in the Australian Football has also been included into and school based competitions. Corporate Games (35 teams) and tertiary Level One courses.

A Different type of Football: More than 9,000 people are now participating in AFL Recreational Football.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 51 SCHOOLS PROGRAMS KICKING GOALS IN SCHOOLS

TREVOR ROBERTSON AFL VICTORIA SCHOOLS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

CERTAINLY, it has been a very productive Australian Football. Professional learning Jason McCartney’s encore performance year for Victorian schools participating in opportunities for teachers included level of his highly successful “Your Destiny is AFL Victoria football programs in 2010. one coaching courses, coaches’ seminars, a Matter of Choice” was conducted at It was a year highlighted by the continued Sport education (SEPEP) and AFL the MCG in the MCC Members Dining growth in the number of AFL Schools Recreational Football. For students with Room in September with 670 secondary Ambassadors, the delivery of the popular sports leadership ambitions, Australian students sharing in the occasion. Kicking Healthy Goals Program into 25 Football coaching and leadership AFL Victoria continued to provide a primary schools in the Ballarat region, programs, with a focus on the role of the range of resources including coaching growth in female participants at all school coach, session planning, teaching basic clipboards, footballs, medallions and VFL levels across the State and eight schools skills and group management, have been passes to secondary schools. finalists in AFL Schools Dream Team and conducted in schools. More than 50,000 girls and boys AFL Quiz Competitions. Secondary represented their schools in 2010 with the MCC Herald Sun Shield and VSSSA MCC G Footy Programs AFL School Ambassadors are a vital Senior Boys Grand Final both played as A vital partnership of the school sector conduit for AFL Victoria in schools with AFL curtain-raiser games at the MCG. is the MCC G Footy program, one of the over 384 secondary AFL Ambassadors St Patricks College, Ballarat won its third most prominent sports development MCC Herald Sun Shield Grand final packages offered to secondary and “More than 50,000 girls and boys over St Joseph’s College Geelong and primary schools. represented their schools in 2010 Essendon Keilor College defeated Hallam G Footy is a joint AFL Victoria and Senior College to win the MCC VSSSA Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) Foundation with the MCC Herald Sun Shield State Championship. initiative, which aims to increase and VSSSA Senior Boys Grand Primary participation and awareness of Australian Final both played as AFL curtain- Football in schools. Working alongside ConnectEast - now in its second year AFL Victoria Development Managers, G raiser games at the MCG.” of a three-year partnership with AFL Footy AFL School Ambassadors have Victoria - saw increased numbers of been acting as important points of contact an 8% increase on last year. In 2010 AFL schools participate in the 2010 EastLink to facilitate the distribution of resources Victoria conducted the AFL Ambassadors Cup Primary Schools Competition. A total and involving the school community in a of the Year Award recognising outstanding of 28 primary schools situated along the variety of activities. contribution to the development of EastLink corridor participated in a knock In 2010, AFL Victoria delivered programs Australian Football. The winner was Dean out round robin football competition. to more than 140,000 teachers and Hendrikse from Marist–Sion College, St Simon’s Rowville defeated Donburn students. The G Footy Program also Warragul. Primary School for the second year in extended to the primary school sector Goalposts provide a visible presence a row in the Grand Final played as a focusing on three main areas - the of Australian Football and a School curtain-raiser to the TAC Cup Grand Final promotion of the National Sports Goalpost Grant Scheme was implemented at Eithad stadium. Museum, AFL Ambassador Program and to provide assistance to secondary AFL Victoria’s Female Football program primary school programs. schools who wished to purchase a set of continued to have strong interest at A key element of the MCC G Footy goalposts. East Loddon P-12 College and schools, with more than 86 schools and program is to support teachers in their Wodonga Senior Secondary College were 2,300 girls nominated to participate in the efforts to promote and engage students in very grateful to receive this resource. AFL Victoria/VPSSA competition.

52 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 Champions: Essendon Keilor College won the 2010 MCC VSSSA State Championship.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 53 SCHOOLS PROGRAMS NAB AFL AUSKICK

The “Get your Kicks at the G Program” AFL Victoria Sport on delivering the Kicking Healthy Goals this year saw 25 primary and secondary Development Program Program to 25 primary schools and schools involved and a total of 608 AFL Victoria in partnership with Sport 1,354 students across the Ballarat region children participate in three activities Education Development Australia in terms 2, 3 and 4. The participating - a visit to the National Sport Museum (SEDA) has completed a very successful schools were: Black Hills, Redan, (NSM), a tour of the MCG and a chance second year of the AFL Victoria Sports Creswick, Ballarat Grammar, Ballarat, to test the new “Game On” Activities in Development Program, providing 253 Sebastapol, Ballarat North, Smeaton, the NSM. We thank the staff at the MCG students with a sport industry based VCE Skipton, Forest St, Myrniong, Waubra, and NSM for their support. or VCAL Certificate lll, Vl and Diploma Yuille Park, Gordon, Windermere, The AFL Primary School Ambassadors in Sport and Recreation program for Canadian Lead, Buninyong, Ballan, Program saw continued growth with students in Year 11&12 in 2010. Hepburn, Creswick North, Coimadai, more than 1,132 teachers at primary Eligible students were recruited to Balliang East, Newlyn, Delecombe, schools enlisting their services as AFL participate in a squad of 25, coordinated Woady Yaloak (Snake Valley). There is Victoria’s AFL Primary School Football by an experienced VIT registered interest already from six other schools for Ambassadors. Their schools received secondary teacher who delivered the 2011. resources and apparel. required curriculum while AFL Victoria We would like to thank the students In 2010 the AFL Ambassador of the Year staff provided practical industry from Ballarat University, the principals, Award was won by Chris Pentland for the experience and training in the delivery of teachers and children for assisting AFL development of an entire school football AFL Victoria Development programs. Victoria and ‘Go for your life’ in making program. Eight programs were set up in 2010 - this program a great success. In order to keep Australian Football Sunshine, Northcote, Montmorency, 1 Seven Program prominent in schools, seven primary Brunswick, Frankston, Clayton, This year the 1 Seven Program increased schools received goal post grants to its number of member schools to 483 assist them to purchase and install - an increase of 30 schools all enjoying new goal posts at their school. The “AFL Players were required the extensive curriculum activities for primary schools that took up this to visit primary schools to children of grades prep to six. 11 of opportunity were St Brendan Primary promote Australian Football... these schools from across Victoria School Shepparton, Bundoora Primary received a Sports Kit as the monthly School, Footscray West Primary School, In 2010, 3,792 AFL player winners. These lucky schools were: Woolsthorpe Primary School, Coleraine appearances were conducted in Park Orchards Primary, Hoddles Creek Primary School, Nyah West Primary primary schools...” Primary, Livingston Primary, Seymour School and Rainbow Primary School. East Primary, Mt Pleasant Rd Primary, AFL players were required to visit Templestowe Heights Primary, Wesburn primary schools to promote Australian Doncaster and Geelong with an Primary, Little River Primary, University Football. Schools can utilise AFL players additional two Diploma groups in Park Primary and Keysborough Primary to conduct classroom activities, guide Parkville and Elsternwick. It is anticipated School. role model programs, and conduct a that another three programs will be set clinic and/or taking the school team up in Gippsland, Eastern Melbourne AFL Schools Competitions Victorian primary and secondary schools for training. In 2010, 3,792 AFL player and another in the Northern suburbs were represented well in the finals of two appearances were conducted in primary at a venue not yet confirmed in 2011, new school national competitions AFL schools compared to 3,398 in 2009 to bringing the total number of programs to Schools Dream Team and the AFL Quiz. just over 73,500 students across Victoria. possibly 12. Western Bulldogs Friendly School Congratulations to Mt Scopus Memorial ‘Go for your life’ School for taking out first place in the program continues to provide hundreds Kicking Healthy Goals Program of school children with an opportunity inaugural National AFL Schools Dream AFL Victoria in partnership with ‘Go for to discover the benefits of healthy Team competition and Eltham High your life’ piloted in 2009 the Kicking exercise and good food choices through School coming second in the state. Healthy Goals Program. The primary a partnership between the AFL, AFL In the AFL Quiz for primary schools, schools program aimed at providing Victoria, Western Bulldogs and Victoria Victoria took out the trifecta in the Year school children with the opportunity University. A total of 34 schools in Three category with Berwick Primary to participate in classroom curriculum Melbourne’s western region participated School, Kingswood Primary and Point activities and complimentary by physical in a program aimed to assist the Lonsdale Primary Schools taking all education activities around healthy food Western Bulldogs achieve greater brand placings, Brunswick North West finished choices and the benefits of physical recognition in the western region and second and Montpellier Primary finished activity. join with AFL Victoria to provide a quality third in the Year Four Category and finally In 2010 AFL Victoria in partnership with physical activity and healthy eating Diamond Creek Primary School finished Go for your life, the University of Ballarat message to children and teachers in the second in the Year Five Category, a and the North Ballarat Football Club, took west. fantastic result for Victorian Schools. the learning from 2009 and embarked

54 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 NAB AFL AUSKICK ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR AUSKICK

MICHAEL STINEAR AFL VICTORIA STATE AUSKICK MANAGER

The 2010 NAB AFL Auskick season was NAB Centre of the Year, NAB Footy Frenzy Eight Victorian children were nominated again very successful. It attracted 48,322 and the ultimate for a participant NAB AFL as NAB AFL Auskickers of the Year boys and girls from across 666 centres Auskicker of the Year. and they received the opportunity to throughout Victoria. Throughout the season Victorian centres participate in the 2010 Toyota AFL The dedication, commitment and passion were lucky enough to be winners of Grand Final including the Parade, Half from our volunteers is vital in ensuring the above competitions and we had 10 Time Grid Game and presenting the participants enjoy a quality program in a nominees for NAB Centre of the Year, premiership medallions to the winning fun and safe environment. The program each receiving $1,000 worth of equipment team. The medal presentations were is dependent upon the support of for their centre. Through the NAB Footy delayed a week after the first Grand parents and the local community and its Frenzy, 15 centres were randomly drawn Final but courtesy of NAB the children ongoing success is a direct result of their and received a $1,000 NAB Award Saver were invited back and completed the involvement. account for their centre. presentations to Collingwood a week Equally important to our volunteers is the later. program’s major sponsor NAB. Once “Response to the 2010 NAB AFL The Thursday before the AFL Grand Final again, NAB has provided tremendous NAB hosted a function for all 22 NAB support through advertising, local staff Auskick season was again very AFL Auskickers of the Year nominees, involvement, equipment and resources successful. It attracted 48,322 where Max Sievers from Beaumaris and more recently through their online boys and girls...” North Auskick Centre was announced as competitions. The competitions include the 2010 NAB AFL Auskicker of the Year.

Valued Sponsorship: NAB were again a great supporter of Auskick in 2010.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 55 FEMALE FOOTBALL

Involved: Eight Victorian children were nominated as NAB AFL Auskickers of the Year.

Max and his family were naturally excited played during half-time of VFL matches. different centres running around on the and their delight grew when presented NAB AFL Auskick Player Visits hallowed turf. with a $5,000 NAB portfolio as well A highlight for many participants is AFL AFL Victoria Coaching Courses as having Cats’ star as a Player Visits. During the season 384 Coach awareness course provided mentor for the 2011 season. AFL players visited NAB AFL Auskick parents with basic group control, skills NAB AFL Auskick Half-Time centres throughout metropolitan activities, coaching points and an One of the most treasured moments Melbourne and Geelong. introduction to the coaching world. of an AFL game is just watching the NAB Auskick Program for All Abilities Orientation Coaching Course is a sheer enjoyment on the faces of the Through resources provided by the hands-on introductory course designed youngsters at the NAB AFL Auskick VicHealth PICSAR program, our All for parents/helpers keen to assist in Half Time. This year 13,334 children Abilities Centres have grown to nine running coaching-based activities. experienced the thrill of running out throughout Victoria, with a total of 322 Level 1 NAB AFL Auskick Course is onto the MCG, Etihad Stadium or Skilled participants. These Auskick centres 14 hours in duration and or parents/ Stadium at half-time. specialise in catering for children with helpers looking to assume a coaching Those children in grades 5-6 physical and intellectual disabilities. role, organise activities, teach skills or participated in NAB AFL Auskick rules NAB AFL Auskick at the G conduct modified games. matches while children in grades 3-4 The chance to partake in an Auskick NAB AFL Auskick Leader Coaching enjoyed Grid Games. This included 122 clinic on the MCG prior to an AFL Course focuses on coaching children participants who were lucky enough to match proved as exciting for parents under 12, covering child development, be involved across the two Grand Finals as it did for all children involved. The clinic and volunteer management and this year. In addition 1,430 children 2010 season saw 875 children from 30 coaching principles.

56 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 FEMALE FOOTBALL SETTING HIGHER GOALS

CHYLOE KURDAS AFL VICTORIA FEMALE FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

FEMALE football continued to make state-wide primary school girls football and coaching. The Academy giant strides in 2010. competition. This year saw 2,225 girls experience culminated in an exhibition It was a year where AFL Victoria from 89 regional and metropolitan match played as a curtain raiser to conducted an independent review of schools involved in the game, which the National Under 18 Youth Girls female football in the State resulting in represents a 15% increase from 2008. Championships Grand Final. a blueprint for our future. Additionally, more than 3,000 primary Youth Girls community football Some of the review’s recommendations school girls participated in VPSSA AFL Victoria’s Youth Girls competition, included continued integration of mixed sex competitions. specifically designed for girls aged female football into existing community Junior community football 13-18, emphasises fun, fitness football structures and further As a stepping stone from NAB AFL and friendship in a family-friendly resourcing for AFL Victoria’s regions to Auskick, local leagues across Victoria environment. Managed by AFL Victoria cope with the growing demand for girls coordinated mixed junior community and supported by local councils and women to play the game. football competitions for girls. In 2010 and the AFL since 2004, Youth NAB AFL Auskick Girls features community football As part of its commitment to encourage competitions across Melbourne, increased female participation in “Young females now make up Geelong and Bendigo. NAB, AFL Victoria conducted in 2010 7.2% of all NAB AFL Auskick In keeping with AFL Victoria’s focus on an all girls Auskick superclinic at the integrating female football into existing . More than 160 participants, a rise of nearly community football structures, AFL girls attended the clinic conducted by one percent in the past Victoria handed over the management AFL Victoria’s Youth Girls Academy, of the South Eastern competition who also provided parents with an two years. Female Auskick to the Dandenong & District Junior insightful information session on the participation will continue to Football League in 2010. Benefits female football pathway. remain a high priority...” included the establishment of two new Young females now make up 7.2% of teams in the region as well as greater all NAB AFL Auskick participants, a local awareness of opportunities for rise of nearly one percent in the past there were 545 girls participating in girls to play the game. While no new two years. Female Auskick participation junior football, an increase of 16% from competitions were added in 2010, will continue to remain a high priority 2008. An annual information more girls than ever played the game. with further development initiatives to session detailing the transition to AFL A total of 869 girls played in 39 be introduced in 2011. Victoria’s Youth Girls leagues was held teams across six competitions, a 27% for girls nearing the age of 14 and increase. Primary school football no longer able to play in mixed junior The Youth Girls talented player pathway Now in its sixth successive year, AFL competitions. provides exciting interleague and Victoria, School Sport Victoria and With support from AFL Victoria, Victorian representative opportunities. the Victorian Primary Schools Sports the North In 2010, a Country State Youth Girls Association (VPSSA) conducted established its very own Junior Girls Championships was added to the the Girls’ Skill Development and Academy. Targeting girls playing VCFL’s VLine Cup, with a representative Competition Program in Victorian junior football, more than 20 girls Geelong side being established for the primary schools. A four-week skill from around Victoria enjoyed a year first time. An Eastern team participated development program for grade 5 long program at the NMFC where they in AFL Victoria’s Metropolitan Junior and 6 girls was complemented by a received on and off field development Championships for the first time, while teacher training program along with a

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 57 UMPIRE DEVELOPMENT

Victory: Victoria claimed the inaugural Youth Girls National Under 18 Championship title against Western Australia by 15 points.

the DDJFL Youth Girls team claimed The Academy program included skills Victorian School Girls team, which their fourth straight Championship title sessions with former St Kilda full back, travelled to Perth to participate in in defeating the Western team. and AFL Victoria High the School Sport Australia National In 2010 the AFL staged the inaugural Perfomance Manager, Leon Harris. Championships. National Under 18 Youth Girls Off-field development sessions in 2010 Victorian Women’s Football League Championships. Held in Melbourne, targeted planning, foot care, leadership AFL Victoria entered a Victorian team and nutrition. Academy players were (VWFL) and a Development team. The Victorian also required to attend their local The VWFL was established in 1981 and team claimed the inaugural National Auskick centres. is open to females aged 16 and over. title, defeating Western Australia by 15 In 2010 the VWFL enjoyed its biggest Secondary school football points, while the Development Team increase in participation in five years. Once again, secondary school girls finished fifth. The league attracted 1,000 players were provided the chance to participate across 29 teams and four competitions, AFL Victoria’s Youth Girls Academy in various competitions and skill marking a 10% increase in participation The Academy grew again in size and development clinics. Competitions from 2009. vision. The Foundation involving School Sport Victoria, The VWFL’s partnership with the came on board as a sponsor, while the Girls Sport Victoria, the Catholic All Melbourne Football Club saw a year Academy continued to enjoy the support Schools Sports Association and other long leadership program implemented of the Essendon Football Club. 46 of independent schools attracted 13,574 across the league and its clubs. The Victoria’s most promising Youth Girls players. The GSV’s Friday Night Footy VWFL also enjoyed a new partnership players and 22 female field umpires competition grew to include 18 teams with the Metropolitan Fire Brigade. participated in the year long program. this year, an increase of four teams. A talent-based academy camp was Victorian Under 18 Head Coach Andrew AFL Victoria also ran 43 clinics reaching held early in the year, while the biennial Jago was an integral member of the approximately 1,500 girls this year. Country vs. Metro match was held at Academy, as participants began the Clinics are conducted by senior female Craigieburn. year with a weekend camp that also players, with many former Youth Girls included the Victoria Police’s High now involved. AFL Victoria supported Challenge Program staff. School Sport Victoria’s Under 16

58 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 UMPIRE DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPING OUR UMPIRES

NEVILLE NASH AFL VICTORIA UMPIRE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

With the support of the Victorian A full list of 2010 winners can be found College in Essendon, Camberwell Country Football League and at aflvic.com.au under Getting Involved/ Grammar, Ringwood Secondary metropolitan football leagues and Umpiring. College, MacKillop College in Werribee associations, AFL Victoria conducts a and Mill Park College. Basic Umpiring Course range of umpire development programs Students attended coaching and The Basic Umpiring Course is that are aimed at recruiting, training training sessions after school and conducted at schools, colleges, tertiary and retaining field, boundary and goal umpired in local football games at the institutions and clubs across Victoria. umpires. weekend. Designed for teachers, students and These development programs are made players, all participants receive a Female Umpire Development available to primary schools, secondary benefits pack that includes a DVD, the The Female Umpiring Academy schools and tertiary institutions, while Ultimate Guide to Umpiring booklet, a continued in 2010, with 22 field assistance is also provided to 38 whistle, cap and drink bottle. umpires selected and the appointment umpiring groups in Victoria to conduct The course introduces participants to of ex AFL field umpire Martin Ellis as recruitment, education and training, the role and skills involved in field, the academy coach. They participated mentoring and coaching programs. In in monthly training/coaching and 2010, the development programs and personal development sessions to resources available to umpiring groups, “In 2010, 710 field, boundary improve their skills, knowledge and leagues and schools included: and goal umpires participated in development. Opportunities were also National Umpiring provided to umpire in representative Accreditation Scheme accreditation courses In Victoria. games and participate in community Level 1, 2 and 3 field, boundary and It is an integral component of an service activities. goal umpire accreditation courses were umpire’s career path.” Umpire Mentor Program conducted through umpire associations The Umpire Mentor Program provides and leagues, AFL Victoria and the VFL. a support framework and resources boundary and goal umpiring. It also In 2010, 710 field, boundary and goal for beginner umpires who make the develops life skills, including: umpires participated in accreditation transition from boundary umpiring to • Decision making courses in Victoria. It is an integral field umpiring, or for newly recruited • Leadership component of an umpire’s career path. field, boundary and goal umpires. An • Effective communication experienced umpire is appointed to Recruitment and Retention • Conflict resolution guide, train and support the learning Umpire numbers in Victoria grew to As part of the course, students involved umpire throughout their early umpiring their highest level in 13 years. have an opportunity to officiate at NAB development. During a match, learning AFL Auskick Grid Games played at • Field Umpires Recruited – 522 umpires are identified by distinctive half-time in AFL matches. • Field Umpires Not Returning – 334 green shirts, black shorts and green In 2010, 1,268 students and players • Number of Field Umpires – 1,699 socks so everyone is aware they have from 54 schools and clubs successfully • Number of Female Field Umpires - 127 undertaken an umpiring induction and completed the course. are a ‘no go’ for criticism. Golden Whistle Awards To assist students with the transition This program has played a major role The Golden Whistle Awards are from the course to umpiring, AFL in the significant advancements made presented to all umpiring groups and Victoria has established six school- in recruiting and retaining umpires. A recognise outstanding performances based umpiring academies at St Bede’s total of 130 new mentors entered the as well as encouraging ongoing College in Mentone, St Bernard’s involvement in the game. program, with 241 mentors returning.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 59 Green shirt umpire numbers increased games and given feedback, as well • Spirit of the laws brochures to 964, compared to 925 in 2009. as attending a coaching and training • Umpiring recruitment brochures and session for AFL umpires. posters Professional Development Program • Laws of the Game Interpretations DVD In its fourth year, the program provides Umpiring is Everyone’s Business • Ultimate Guide to Umpiring booklet opportunities for umpire coaches and Campaign • Umpiring promotional DVD mentors to enhance their skills and This campaign was conducted in • Umpiring Retention Strategies booklet knowledge and attend workshops and May last year with a majority of • Umpire Mentor Program DVD participate in teleconferences. leagues, clubs and umpiring groups • Why Women Umpire Australian There were 142 participants in 2010. participating to promote the role of Football DVD Mates Program the umpire in the football community. • A Day in the Life of an AFL Umpire DVD. The AFL Victoria Mates Program links Several AFL coaches, players and AFL field umpires (seven in total) media personalities participated by with the seven metropolitan umpiring umpiring junior football games and in Female Focus: 22 female field umpires were groups. Young, developing umpires the media. selected to participate in the Female Umpiring Academy. are identified and paired with an Other resources available to umpiring AFL umpire. They are observed in groups, leagues and clubs include:

60 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 AFL PLAYER APPEARANCES AFL PLAYER APPEARANCES

KEITH BURNS AFL VICTORIA PROGRAMS CO-ORDINATOR

The AFL Player Appearances Program activities, role model programs, Auskick centres. In 2010, 384 AFL involves AFL players visiting schools, conducting a clinic or taking the players logged 886 appearance hours NAB AFL Auskick clinics, local clubs and school team for training. In 2010, at AFL Auskick centres. community groups throughout Victoria. primary schools utilised 3,820 Superclinics These promotional activities are a vital appearance hours from 464 AFL NAB AFL Auskick children are invited component of both the AFL’s and AFL players. to attend a superclinic conducted at Victoria’s grass roots development Secondary Schools a central location or at an AFL club strategy. Region Development Managers training venue, mostly during the As part of the AFL and AFL Players allocate AFL players to either school holidays. In 2010, 385 AFL Association Collective Bargaining participate in role model and healthy players logged 800 appearance hours Agreement, every AFL player is lifestyle talks, leadership programs, at various superclinics. committed to conduct 21 half day conducting a clinic, decision making Country AFL Player Appearances appearances – six allocated to the discussions, police in schools AFL and delivered by AFL Victoria Each AFL club selects a day when and 15 allocated to the AFL club. its entire playing list visits country It demonstrates the commitment of “Players were involved for towns to conduct Australian Football all parties to make the AFL players 10,650 hours in 2010, an promotions coordinated by Country Region Development Managers available to promote the game. increase on the 2009 figure With the support of AFL clubs, and supported by local clubs. The AFL players visited Melbourne’s of 10,400 hours and the 2008 AFL players either go into school classrooms and playgrounds or are metropolitan area and outer suburbs, involvement of 10,387 hours.” Geelong and regional centres. Players involved in clinics conducted at a central venue. AFL Community were involved for 10,650 hours in program or training the school football 2010, an increase on the 2009 Training Camps are also conducted team. In 2010, secondary schools by AFL clubs in country regions or figure of 10,400 hours and the 2008 utilised 644 appearances. involvement of 10,387 hours. interstate during February of each In the metropolitan area and Geelong, Junior Club Program year. In 2010, 395 AFL players logged AFL clubs are allocated a region to AFL coaches select a date to free- 3,160 appearance hours at nearly 60 conduct the following AFL Player up players to go out and visit junior country towns. Appearance programs: clubs who have accepted an invitation coordinated through the Region Primary Schools Development Managers. In 2010, 401 Schools are allocated two days AFL players logged 900 appearance that are coordinated by Region hours at junior clubs. Development Managers usually early in the season. Schools have NAB AFL Auskick the option of utilising the AFL player AFL clubs also allocated their players to either participate in classroom specific days to attend NAB AFL

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 61 AFL KICKSTART INDIGENOUS PROGRAM STRENGTHENING RELATIONSHIPS

LEON EGAN AFL VICTORIA KICKSTART INDIGENOUS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Indigenous people come together to do the conclusion of this camp, the eight Indigenous boys was enjoyed as they things that are important and enjoyable most outstanding boys were selected to represented their country as part of the to them. Australian Football is one of our progress to the Qantas Kickstart National ‘Flying Boomerangs’ football team in community’s most popular sports. Camp in Sydney. the Oceania Football Championships AFL Victoria Indigenous Programs Qantas Kickstart National Camp (Stage 2) in Tonga. The eight Victorian boys capitalises on this unique capacity of This year’s five day camp was held in that began their Kickstart journey in the game to bring together Indigenous Sydney from 15-22 July, which was Melbourne back in June, journeyed to communities to participate both on and organised by recently retired Sydney Sydney in August for the national camp off the field in programs that contribute Swans legend Michael O’Loughlin and and were finally rewarded with selection in to good health, valued education, school included eight Victorian boys. About 50 the ‘Flying Boomerangs’ team. Next stop attendance, leadership development, Indigenous boys from across Australia to after Tonga for these talented Victorian life skills training and opportunities for participate in this camp every year. This Indigenous boys is the Under 16 TAC Cup employment. year’s group played a game against one talent pathway program. Involvement in football, whether at a another under lights on the SCG as the Rio Tinto – Footy Means Business club, school, league or AFL Auskick curtain raiser to round 21 game - Leadership Program Partnership centre, provides an important focus for A new initiative in 2010 between the both Indigenous young people and their AFL and Rio Tinto was the establishment families to strengthen relationships to “Involvement in football, whether of a leadership development program connect with a wider community, develop at a club, school, league or targeted at 18-23 year old Indigenous a sense of belonging and develop life young men to maximize talent and skills which are transferable in other life AFL Auskick Centre, provides employment opportunities. In late May, pursuits. an important focus for both a total of 50 Indigenous young men from Strengthening Indigenous families and across Australia participated in a week communities and encouraging wider Indigenous young people and long leadership camp with the highlight mainstream social connections are key their families to strengthen being able to play a game against one outcomes and this can be achieved relationships...” another on the MCG as the curtain raiser through a range of support programs game to Dreamtime at the G - Richmond provided by AFL Victoria and its partners. vs Essendon. Eight Victorian boys They include Indigenous and non Sydney Swans vs Western Bulldogs. This participated in the camp with a Victorian Indigenous groups. year’s camp included a day at Taronga boy, Rowen Pickett winning the medal for KickStart Future Leaders Camp (Stage 1) Zoo, extensive leadership activities and best-on-ground. During 2010, a total of 22 talented under meeting all of the Indigenous players In October, 2010, camp two was 15 Indigenous boys were selected from at the Sydney Swans as well as Swans conducted in Sydney with the same representative/interleague competitions coach, Paul Roos who spoke of the number of participants who played a across the state league’s talent pathway commitment required to making it to game against one another at the newly and were invited to attend a three day the next level. Out of the success of this built AFL ground and facilities at Greater leadership camp program in Parkville camp a squad of 25 players was selected Western Sydney. There were 11 Victorians at the end of June. Participation in to form the Qantas ‘Flying Boomerangs’ in this camp. this camp covers off on character team that toured Tonga in December, There will be two of these camps each identification, leadership and football 2010. year for the next three years, which will talent, which included activities with Qantas Flying Boomerangs Team (Stage 3) present our young Indigenous men with Victoria Police, Essendon Football Club During a 12 day period last December a real opportunities, not only on the football and North Melbourne Football Club. At magical time for our 25 most outstanding field but off field as well.

62 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 Coming Together: AFL Victoria Indigenous Programs capitalise on the unique capacity of football to bring together Indigenous communities to participate both on and off the field.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 63 FAIR GAME, RESPECT MATTERS RESOURCES FOOTBALL, A GAME OF EQUALS

KATRINA LEASON AFL VICTORIA FAIR GAME, RESPECT MATTERS PROGRAM MANAGER

Fair Game, Respect Matters is a program homophobia unacceptable under any teams and others offered female football of AFL Victoria that aims to create safe circumstances. to increase the participation of women. and inclusive environments for women • Encourage coaches to be responsible for Some clubs recruited female coaches, time in Australian Football. The program is ensuring players abide by the expected keepers and umpires. based on research that shows that where standards of behaviour on the field. The Fair Game, Respect Matters pilot relationships between men and women • Inspire the player leadership group to program is in Phase 2 of its delivery and is are equal and based on respect there be responsible for ensuring that players currently being delivered to the clubs within is a direct correlation where violence understand and practice respectful the Northern Football League and Essendon against women can be reduced. behaviour, both on and off the field. District Football League. Football clubs AFL Victoria has embarked on a program • Create minimum standards to ensure have a significant capacity to embrace and to embed Fair Game, Respect Matters in all that entertainment in clubs is appropriate promote cultural change. The men and football development work in future. More for a family-oriented environment. For women involved in Fair Game, Respect work is planned to formalise the introduction example, male and female strippers Matters are working towards creating and to ensure leagues are responsible to and comedians whose material is racist, more vibrant, family friendly, and most sustain long term change. This includes the homophobic, sexist or sexually explicit importantly inclusive clubs that value and development of model policies and codes of are inappropriate and should never be demonstrate respect for all members. conduct for use in clubs. associated with club activities. Fair Game clubs welcome the active The evaluation recommended that, • Develop incident protocols for when there participation of women and girls in all roles. appropriate to the different levels, codes are breaches in expected standards, Fair Game, Respect Matters is a program of conduct and policies should include and guidelines for the management of of AFL Victoria and is funded by VicHealth. messages that: incidents when they occur. The Australian Research Centre in Sex, • Expect respectful behaviour between • Develop processes to deal appropriately Health and Society at La Trobe University all members on and off the field. with breaches of these policies. evaluated the program. The evaluation • Encourage women and girls to After the first season of Fair Game, Respect has been an integral part of the program participate in all on and off-field football Matters in clubs, the number of women in and has contributed ongoing feedback related activities. decision making positions has increased. to ensure continuous learning and • Make all kinds of sexism, racism and Some clubs amalgamated with local netball improvement as the program developed.

Respect Matters: Peter Schwab (second from left) is pictured with members of the Greenvale FC at the Fair Game, Respect Matters Recognition Night held at Windy Hill for the Essendon District Football League.

64 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 RESOURCES RESOURCES AVAILABLE AT AFL VICTORIA

The many invaluable resources available CLUBMAN - $30 CONTACT SKILLS DVD – $25 from AFL Victoria are outlined below. A club resource in CD format that can Appropriate for both junior and senior All listed prices include GST and postage assist with the management of clubs levels, this DVD includes sections and handling. finances and budgeting, stock control, on tackling, fending, smothering and CLUB MANAGEMENT KIT – $25 members contact details and recording of bumping. Developed by the AFL in conjunction with a club’s history. SENIOR COACH’S DIARY – $25 the Australian Sports Commission after THE CLUB – $30 More than 300 pages of detailed extensive consultation with football league A resource that covers all aspects of templates for planning, preparing and and club volunteer administrators who running a community football club, recording your every move. A complete identified priority areas of club operations. including football operations, fundraising, record of your season. The club management kit contains the club structure and financial management. JUNIOR COACH’S DIARY – $20 following club management manuals: The CD contains links to external websites More than 200 pages of detailed for more detailed information, along • Financial management templates for planning, preparing and with standard templates such as job recording your every move. A complete • Club planning descriptions and sponsor proposals that record of your season. • Risk management clubs can adopt and tailor to their own STYLE OF PLAY – $15 needs. • Volunteer management The fundamental principles which • Junior development BOUNCING RACISM OUT OF SPORT underpin the style of play, strategies and • Community partnerships (BROOS) – $25 tactics of Australian Football. The BROOS program consists of a set GAME DAY COACHING – $10 VOLUNTEERS FOR FOOTBALL CD ROM – $25 of user-friendly resources designed to The key areas of effective game day Packed with ideas about how to manage assist leagues and clubs to create a more coaching including game plan, pre game, local football club volunteers, this CD tolerant football environment and remove game on and post game. includes detailed job descriptions for any potential barriers to participation. The every club role, along with volunteer program includes a guidelines booklet, TRAIN SMART DVD – $25 recruitment programs, club organisation sample league and club social and Appropriate for both junior and senior charts, the legislation protecting religious tolerance policies and a DVD/ levels, this DVD highlights training volunteers, web links, and a volunteer video for players, officials and spectators activities from warm-ups through to promotion video clip and recruitment that has been distributed to all leagues game-sense games and full-ground drills. poster. and clubs. GRANT FUNDING GUIDE – $15 THE COACH – $15 TO ORDER This easy step-by-step guide to applying Level One senior manual that sets Visit www.aflvic.com.au – go to Getting for grant funding for your football club out guidelines for the preparation and Involved tab and link to the resources details how to write a grant submission coaching of senior footballers. page. and includes handy tips on how to access funding. AFL YOUTH COACHING MANUAL – $25 Level One youth manual for coaching TACKLING VOLUNTEERS PROGRAM – $15 adolescents – includes planning, An innovative program designed to assist communication, team play and skills. clubs with their recruitment of volunteers, which includes links to the Volunteer AFL JUNIOR COACHING MANUAL – $25 Resource Centre. The junior manual is for Auskick and junior (under/9-12) coaches and focuses on skills, games and the role of the coach.

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 65 AFL VICTORIA PEOPLE STRUCTURE OF AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL AFL VICTORIA PEOPLE

(As at JANUARY 2011)

AFL VICTORIA HEADQUARTERS AFL VICTORIA ADMINISTRATION Multicultural Officer South East Southern Gary Brown GPO Box 4337 Chief Executive Officer TBA Region Michael Nguyen Western Graeme Pratt MELBOURNE VIC 3001 Executive Assistant to CEO Multicultural Offer Central East Phone: (03) 8341 6000 Silvana Hurst Region TBA VFL TRIBUNAL MEMBERS Fax: (03) 9380 1076 Financial Controller Multicultural Offer Northern Edward Power (Chairman) Website: aflvic.com.au Stephen Smith Region Harmit Singh Barry Josephs (Vice Chairman) Marketing & Communications Multicultural Officer North West Tim Bourke AFL VICTORIA BOARD Manager David Howard Region Eder-Luiz Martins Sam Chadwick Grant O’Riley (Chairman) Marketing Co-ordinator Multicultural Officer Western Brian Chaplin Geoff Almond Kaylee George Region Nish Moses Sam Cusumano Nicholas Bourke Receptionist Ellie Campbell David Wood David Doherty OAM Football Operations Manager TAC CUP REGION MANAGERS Sal Perna Ray Guston John Hook Bendigo Pioneers Ray Byrne Rick Lewis High Performance Manager Calder Cannons Ian Kyte AFL VICTORIA DEVELOPMENT Anton Grbac Dandenong Stingrays John Russo ADVISORY BOARD High Performance Manager Mark Wheeler David Doherty (Chairman) OAM Leon Harris Eastern Ranges Anthony Parkin VFL APPEALS Diana Taylor Football Operations Coordinator Geelong Falcons Michael Turner Ian Hill QC (Chairman) John Doherty Sophie Timms Gippsland Power Peter Francis Greg Meese Geoff Almond Football Operations Officer Greater Western Sydney John Larkins Brad Ostermeyer Luke Gatti Lachlan Buzzard Peter Weightman Ian Hamm State Director of Umpiring Murray Bushrangers Derek Humphrey-Smith Kevin Mitchell Andrew Carson VFL INVESTIGATIONS/ Umpiring Assistant North Ballarat Rebels REPORTING OFFICER AFL VICTORIA MEMBERS Angela Lindsay Phil Partington Rick Lewis Bendigo Bombers David Joss Manager – Development and Northern Knights Nick Carmichael Box Hill Hawks Tony Pinwill Planning Mick Daniher Peter Kennedy Casey Scorpions John Sharkie Manager - Community Football Oakleigh Chargers UMPIRE ADVOCATES Coburg Tigers Bill Balakis Development Peter McDougall Mark Smart Nick Carmichael Collingwood Geoff Walsh Club Development Manager Sandringham Dragons Craig Shiel Frankston John Barry Darryl Collings Ryan O’Connor North Ballarat John McClure Community Football Assistant Western Jets Shane Sexton PLAYER ADVOCATES Northern Bullants Lauren Bunting Sean Audley Stephen Papal Footyweb and IT Support AFL VICTORIA REGION Howard Beer Port Melbourne Peter Saultry Manager Stephen Stewart DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS David Reilly Sandringham Gerard Ryan Coaching Development Manager Country Regions Steve Wyatt Werribee Tigers John Nicol Steve Teakel North Ballarat Tim Shearer Ray Lord Williamstown Trevor Monti Schools Development Manager Wimmera Geoff Burdett VCFL Nicholas Rolfe Trevor Robertson South West Jock Whiting AUDITOR VAFA Bruno Conti Umpire Development Manager Bendigo Tony McNamara KPMG Northern FL Tony Topp Neville Nash Central Murray & North Central Eastern FL Graham Halbish Programs Coordinator Trevor Mellington HONORARY SOLICITORS Essendon District FL Ian Price Keith Burns Sunraysia Trevor Ryan Messrs. Riddell District FL Female Football Development Geelong John Edsall Mahoney, Galvin & Rylah Alan Matthews Manager Chyloe Kurdas Hampden Alan Thompson Southern FL Mark Seymour Fair Game, Respect Matters Goulburn Murray Greg Liddell AFL VICTORIA APPEALS BOARD Western Region FL Bill Baarini Program Manager North East Border Jeff Chandler Barry Josephs Dandenong & District JFL Katrina Leason North East Border (Wangaratta) Sam Cusumano Roger Hampson KickStart Indigenous Darren Ogier Ian Percy Moorabbin Saints JFL Development Manager East Gippsland Rob Reid Richard Smith Russell McMurray Leon Egan LaTrobe Valley Adam Dowie Brian Chaplin Yarra Junior FL Peter Haddad State Auskick Manager Metro Regions Greg Meese Victorian Women’s FL Michael Stinear North West Len Villani John Keogh (Secretary) Debbie Lee Development Assistant South East Michael Roberts Fiona Hicks Eastern Shawn Wilkey AFL Multicultural Football Northern Phiv Demetriou Project Coordinator & Tom Delahunty Nick Hatzoglou Central TBA

66 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 STRUCTURE OF AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL STRUCTURE OF AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL

AFL

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

MEMBERSHIP AGREEMENTS CLUB LICENCE AGREEMENTS COMMUNITY FOOTBALL

VFL TAC CUP *SEJ *NFL *EFL *EDFL VICTORIAN *MSJFL COUNTRY FOOTBALL LEAGUE *RDFL 69,075 *SFL *VAFA *VMSFL *WRFL METRO *VWFL FOOTBALL LEAGUES *YJFL 66,925

AFL VICTORIA DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES NAB AFL AUSKICK COMMUNITY PROGRAM UMPIRE COMMUNITIES COACH RECREATIONAL MULTICULTURAL FEMALE INDIGENOUS SCHOOL FAIR GAME - AFL PLAYER 48,322 CHILDREN DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION FOOTBALL 103,625 RESPECT MATTERS APPEARANCES PARTICIPANTS

*SEJ - South East Juniors *MSJFL - Moorabbin Saints Junior Football League *VMSFL - Victorian Masters Superules Football League *NFL - Northern Football League *RDFL - Riddell District Football League *WRFL - Western Region Football League *EFL - Eastern Football League *SFL - Southern Football League *VWFL - Victorian Women’s Football League *EDFL - Eastern District Football League *VAFA - Victorian Amateur Football Association *YJFL - Yarra Junior Football League

AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010 | 67 68 | AFL Victoria Annual Review 2010