June 2007 WFC Editorial - 2nd Tier Review Response Williamstown Football Club

P.O Box 307 Over recent weeks a number of articles have appeared in the print media and discussion has raged on Williamstown 3016 talkback radio in relation to the state of football in , the lack of success of Victorian based AFL Clubs and the status of second tier football throughout Australia and in particular the VFL competition. Ph: (03) 9390-0611 Fax: (03) 9390-0644 E: [email protected] Speculation indicates that a number of Melbourne based AFL clubs may choose to field their own team in the VFL instead of remaining in an aligned arrangement.

Such talk has resulted in many queries being directed at the club as to the status of our alignment with Collingwood and also the status of the VFL competition.

To keep members, sponsors and supporters updated on these issues the Board of Directors believe that it is important to outline the current AFL Second Tier Review, WFC Discussions with Collingwood and feedback from AFL Victoria.

To paint a clear picture of all the facts it is important to know the following information:

• Williamstown and Collingwood is in its seventh year of an alignment which expires at the completion of the 2008 season.

3 3 • The AFL have set up a Review Committee which is currently looking at all the second tier competitions throughout Australia e.g. VFL, SANFL, WAFL etc. This committee has met with all AFL clubs, managers of all TAC Cup clubs and is in the process of meeting all VFL clubs. Williamstown Directors Trevor Monti, Barry Round, Andrew Howlett and myself met this committee on Tuesday 15th May.

• President Trevor Monti and myself have met with Collingwood’s Acting CEO Eugene Arocca and Chief of Football Geoff Walsh to discuss this AFL Review and to obtain their thoughts on this process and their club’s preferred plans for the future.

In our discussion with Collingwood it has been made clear that they are happy with the current arrangement but as with all AFL clubs, some members of the Football Department believe that from a development point of view it would be advantageous to have total control over their players by having their own “Reserves” side.

The current scenario allows all AFL clubs to field their own “Reserves” side in the VFL but only Geelong has opted to retain their own side. Collingwood fielded its own side in 2000 but opted to seek an alignment with Williamstown at the end of the 2000 season because of the extra cost, staffing, personnel and top up players which was required.

From a VFL clubs perspective, all VFL clubs are unanimous with AFL Victoria in vehemently opposing any move for AFL clubs re-inventing an AFL Reserves competition which would reduce the VFL to a third tier competition with no AFL players participating. Such a move would dismantle our current competition and would be an unmitigated disaster.

The Williamstown Football Club believes that the lack of success of Victorian based AFL clubs and the on and off field strength of interstate AFL Clubs is the catalyst for this review. At the moment each AFL club in an alignment makes a significant financial saving which assists their financial bottom line.

Speculation is that assistance could be forthcoming from the AFL as a result of recommendations from the Review Committee which will make it more affordable for AFL clubs to field their own side in the VFL. Many issues have to be addressed if it is feasible for more AFL clubs to use the “Geelong model” and field their own 49 1954 49 1955 1956 1958 1959 1969 1976 1986 1990 200 side in the VFL. Such issues include: • List sides of AFL clubs (currently 44) • Access to top up players from the TAC Cup and local leagues • Availability of venues to play games • Inability to play curtain raisers at MCG and Telstra Dome • Hassle of AFL clubs duplicating staff for reserves games • Costs

In our open and frank discussions with Collingwood we have agreed to maintain dialogue with each other but Collingwood has assured us that they have made no decision to change the current arrangement. They are awaiting the outcome of this Review Committee and any resultant recommendations which may arise.

The Williamstown Football Club Board believes that the best option for our club is to remain in an aligned agreement with Collingwood but if that was not to continue, we would consider our options in order to remain a viable club in any revamped second tier competition.

WILLIAMSTOWN FOOTBALL CLUB The Williamstown Football Club believe that it has demonstrated over the last 8 years with firstly the Western Bulldogs in 2000 and Collingwood since 2001 that it can work in a harmonious manner with an AFL partner and deliver positive outcomes in development of young players, establishing a winning environment and on

williamstown.footballvic.com.au williamstown.footballvic.com.au field success.

Williamstown will keep Members, Sponsors and supporters informed as events develop over the next few months.

Brendan Curry Williamstown Football Club The Word From Williamstown—JUNE 2007 Williamstown—JUNE From Word The General Manager ESTABLISHED1864 PREMIERS 1907 1921 1939 19 1945 Head to Head with Captain Brett Johnson

The Word from Williamstown sat down with Williamstown captain Brett Johnson leading up to our Round 8 game against Box Hill. Brett answers a range of questions and demonstrates to all Seagull supporters his passion and determination in bringing ultimate success to Williamstown. Q Congratulations on the role you played in the VFL’s huge win over last week. How was the experience and was it strange wearing the “Big V” as you are a born and bred West Australian and captained WA at Under 18 level? It was very strange wearing the ‘Big V’ growing up and playing for WA. We looked upon the Vics as the enemy and arrogant mainly because they were always the ‘ones’ to beat. It was a great experience to wear the ‘Big V’ and to represent the VFL after playing VFL footy for 7+ years it was an honour to play with some of the best players in the comp. Q How have you seen Williamstown’s on field results in the first third of the season? I am reasonably happy to be sitting 4th at the moment. I believe we are better placed then we were this time last year. I still think we have a bit of ground to make up on the likes of Sandy & Geelong, however we have a much younger list and hopefully this will translate into improved performances both in our Reserves and Seniors teams as the year goes on. Q In your second season at Williamstown, how have you enjoyed the opportunity to captain the club and the influence you now exert over a young VFL player group and with the Collingwood players selected at VFL level? Its an enormous honour to captain the Williamstown Football Club and it has been a great experience so far. The leadership Group is very close and enjoy each others company and really enjoy watching all of our younger team mates develop both as footballers and people. It’s been great to see some of the Seapies get their opportunity at AFL level and showcase their talent. Q Former Williamstown Premiership Full Forward Greg Boxall has had an influence over your career. How important has Greg been and how many times have you been forced to watch the 1976 Williamstown / Mordialloc Grand Final? Greg has been a loyal friend and given me enormous support throughout my football career. I first met Greg 7 1/2 years ago when I arrived at Hawthorn and he hasn’t managed to lead me astray as yet. I haven’t seen the Grand Final yet, however I’ve heard about it as many times as I've heard him belt out an Elvis Presley number! Q You are studying to become a Physiotherapist – how important has it been to maintain your studies and plan for life after football when you were a full time AFL footballer with Hawthorn and Carlton? It was very important to me because I knew footy wouldn't last forever. I’ve almost finished the course and I’m looking forward to starting work. It’s an area I’ve always been interested in and I’ve been fortunate to have dealt with some great physios throughout my footy career. Q After losing in the Preliminary Final to Geelong last year, how driven are you to be part of a premiership side with the Seagulls? I was shattered losing the Prelim last year, it has made me even more determined to go one better this year. I am excited about our prospects this year. I believe we are ‘up to’ something special and capable of taking the next step. Q Do you harbour any ambitious to return to Western Australia or is Melbourne now your permanent home for football and career opportunities? Melbourne is definitely my home for football. I have lived in Melbourne my whole ‘adult life’ and my girlfriend Hayley is a Melbournian. But, who knows I would like to get back maybe one day. Q How do you view our alignment with Collingwood as you have played with Box Hill and the Northern Bullants as an AFL listed player and now at Williamstown as a VFL listed player? It has been different for me, because I was usually coming back from the AFL with Box Hill and Northern Bullants. I believe the alignment is very strong and it is great to watch the younger Seapies develop. For example and have really taken the next step in only their second year of Senior footy after spending most of their time playing for Williamstown last year.

MAJOR SUPPORT SPONSORS Gulls Corner It’s great to see the increase in Gulls Members attending the half time refreshments Keep it up!. Reminder to all those who have not yet had their complimentary Presidents Luncheon, we only have 4 home games left so book in or you will miss out. One of our long time Gulls Members and a truly loyal member of the Williamstown Football Club, Junior Jackson, has not been well enough to get to the games at present so we wish him well and hope to see him soon. Once again I thank you for your support and look forward to the finals in 2007. Go the Mighty Seagulls!

Cheers Judi Jeremiah

WOK RITE IN NOODLE & SNACK BAR 7 FERGUSON STREET WILLIAMSTOWN

THE WORD FROM WILLIAMSTOWN—JUNE 2007 Page 2 Check us out at williamstown.footballvic.com.au After match at Home

A reminder to all members/supporters that after every home game speeches take place in the Social Rooms at 5.30pm. It is an opportunity to listen to Senior Coach Brad Gotch discuss the game and he then interviews two players. Players interviewed this season include Brad Dick, Dean Limbach, , Scott Meyer, Nathan Brown, and Kane McKenzie. The Gulls Burbank Oval Supporters Group run a BBQ after the game and it is a great way to mingle with the Players and Coaching Staff. Everyone is welcome to attend after Morris St, Willi All dogs must each home game and we look forward to seeing you there. Melways be on a leash Map 56 D11 Auction Night 2007

The Williamstown Football Club 2007 Annual Auction will be held on Saturday 4th August at the Yarraville Club. The night features a Main Auction and Silent Auction as well as a live band, famous faces competition and

IVANHOE MOORABBIN SANDOWN PARK pick that song competition. Should be a fantastic night of entertainment. 62 Lwr Heidelberg Rd 650 South Road 770 Princes Hwy, Springvale Tickets cost $35 Tables can be organised for 10-12 people. For tickets ring the Tel: 9499 2279 Tel: 9555 1534 Tel: 9574 1235 club on 9390 0611. 2007 President Luncheons

In 2007 the rich tradition of entertaining and Seniors Wrap Rounds 5-8 successful President Luncheons will continue. President Trevor Monti will host the best value luncheon in town - $40.00 per head which includes Williamstown Seniors are in third position on the a 2 course meal, complimentary beer and wine and ladder with 4 wins, 2 draws and one loss away at a quality Guest Speaker. These luncheons also provide a wonderful opportunity to network. Sandringham. A very pleasing aspect has been Premier Steve Bracks the consistency of effort and performance thus Mark Williams Outlined below are a list of dates of our Luncheons and & Simon Beasley far. The month of June presents a great challenge our Guest Speakers: with 5 tough games and the team began the Round 9 Sunday 10th June Vs North Ballarat - Guest Speaker Port Adelaide Power Coach month in great fashion with an impressive away Mark Williams - Life Members Day - Match Day Sponsor Buffalo Sports win at Box Hill last Saturday. Key forwards Dean Limbach, and Andrew Williams continue Round 10 Sunday 17th June Vs Northern Bullants - Guest Speaker Legendary Media Personality Tony Charlton & TV Star from Neighbours Kevin Harrington - Pet Day - Liam Picken to perform well. SeaPie youngsters Danny Match Day Sponsor Australia Post Stanley, Danny Nicholls, Sam Iles, Ryan Cook, and Ben Davies continue to impress and Kane McKenzie, Round 13 Sunday 8th July Vs Casey Scorpions - Guest Clinton Proctor, Scott Meyer, Liam Picken are showing greater maturity Speakers Premier Mr Steve Bracks & Bookmaker Simon Beasley - Match Day Sponsors KFC & Qenos on a weekly basis. Captain Brett Johnson continues to lead from the front and experienced heads Shane Wakelin, Paul Licuria and Chris Round 15 Sunday 22nd July Vs Sandringham - Guest Speaker Bryan are adding extra steel to the side. First year players Sharrod Melbourne F.C Chairman Paul Gardner - Past Players Day - Match Day Sponsors Subway Altona North & Apprenticeships Wellingham, Nathan Brown, Brad Dick and are impressive Kevin Harrington Plus Paul Gardner youngsters. Consecutive home games against North Ballarat and the Northern Bullants are a wonderful opportunity for the club to establish a Reminder to all sponsors that you have guest passes to attend a luncheon throughout the year top 4 spot on the ladder. and we encourage you to use them and come along and enjoy a Sunday Roast at Williamstown on any of the dates listed above. Bookings Brendan Curry / Trent Mosbey 9390 0611

THE WORD FROM WILLIAMSTOWN—JUNE 2007 Page 3 Check us out at williamstown.footballvic.com.au Curtain Raiser at Geelong Supporters Bus

The following information relates to Williamstown Football Club will again run a Supporters the Williamstown Vs Geelong AFL Bus for all away games during the 2007 season. The bus will depart our Social Club, Seagulls Nest (1 Mason Curtain Raiser match at Skilled Street, Newport) and return there after the final siren. This is a economical and Stadium on Saturday 30th June at easy way to travel to away games and support the Mighty Seagulls. A season pass 10.40am. can be purchased for $60.00 or a weekly ticket costs $7. These prices and conditions only If you wish to purchase a season pass please fill in the attached membership form apply up until the commencement of or you can book a ticket during the season by contacting Rob Kendall on the AFL curtain raiser match at 9397-7650. 10.40am . After the commencement of the AFL curtain raiser match, normal AFL ticket prices will apply to all patrons Casualty Ward VFL CLUB MEMBERSHIP CARDS *Visiting Adult VFL Club members will be charged $9.00 (on Unfortunately the casualty ward at Williamstown in 2007 has presentation of a 2007 VFL Club membership card). been busier than we would have preferred. Last Saturday reigning best and fairest winner Steven Greene suffered a *Visiting VFL Club Members Concession / Pensioner will be charged serious knee injury which is being scanned and we await news whether it will $5.00 (on presentation of a 2007 VFL Club membership Card) end his season. Groin / O.P victim Tom Langlands is slowly building his training workload and should play his first game for the season over the next few *No AFL club membership of aligned clubs can be used to gain weeks. Collegians recruit Andrew Scott has been unable to play in 2007 but access to an AFL curtain raiser match. This includes the North hopefully will resume later in June. Nick Georgiadis (badly broken nose), Ballarat / Tasmania membership card given to all Kangaroos Cameron Lockwood (Quad), Nick Roberts (Groin), Adam Cook (Shoulder / Cork members. Thigh), Joe Hedditch (Shoulder and Richard Knight (Hamstring) should all Details of Entry: resume in the next couple of weeks. Long term injured Seapies Sean Rusling (Shoulder) and Chris Dawes (Knee) will probably resume in July. *Any patrons using a 2007 VFL Club Membership card must enter (Knee) will probably miss 8 weeks but Ryan Lonie should resume this week. the stadium via the Bob Davis Gate at the Western Entry point. *Players and Officials who are using a TRUenergy VFL 2007 Season Pass may enter the stadium through the Sports House in the Reg Past Players Day Hickey Stand .The Reg Hickey Stand is on the Eastern side of the ground (off Moorabool Street). On Sunday 22nd July the club is holding a Past Players Function in a marquee at the ground. There *Patrons who are using a TRUenergy VFL 2007 Season Pass must will be a complimentary barbecue and discounted enter through the Bob Davis Gate at the Western Entry point of the ground. drinks available and the function will be co-ordinated by Tony Hannebery and Ian Rickman. It would be Gates Opening Times: great to see as many former players attend this *The Bob Davis Gate will open for all VFL Club members at function as possible as it should be a huge day when 10.15am / 9.30am. Williamstown takes on 3 time reigning premier Tony Pastore Sandringham. Seating: *2000 free seats are provided on the Gary Ablett Terrace at the Upcoming Match Days Northern end of the ground for all those attending the AFL curtain raiser match. * Sunday June 10th - Vs North Ballarat *VFL Clubs are provided with an additional 35 seats for all those Sponsored by Buffalo Sports players and officials who wish to stay on to watch the AFL match. * Sunday June 17th - Vs Northern Bullants Sponsored by Australia Post Reserves Wrap * Sunday July 8th - Vs Casey Scorpions Williamstown Reserves had a stirring victory over Sponsored by KFC - Western Suburbs & Qenos reigning premiers Box Hill on Saturday after trailing by 5 goals at half time. Close losses to * Sunday July 22nd - Vs Sandringham Frankston (Round 6) and Sandringham (Round Sponsored by Apprenticeships Plus & Subway Altona North 7) have been disappointing but coach Anthony Eames is very excited with the emerging talent at his disposal. Anthony Chiu, Ryan Crawford, Merchandise Range Murray Boyd, Ben Foley, Matthew Grossman, Michael Darvell, Dave Stretton and Matthew Cravino have been consistent performers and Williamstown Football Club’s merchandise James Beaumont first year players Matthew Miller, Sam Toulmin, range featuring Hodded Jumpers $40, Golf Jarrod Clark, Mitchell Keddell, Michael Tanner, James Beaumont and Umbrellas $25, Wristbands $5, Stubby SeaPie rookie have been prominent. Adam Cook, Holders $5, Baseball Caps $15, Sun Visors Cameron Lockwood, Conor Dullard, Nick Georgiadis and Brant Dickson $12, Key Rings $10, Scarf & Beanie Sets $25, have had interrupted seasons with injury but should have greater impact Mens & Women’s Fleece Jumpers in the second half of the year. $30, and much much more…… Items will be on sale at match days in the Social Rooms. For further information visit the Seagulls Shop on our website www.williamstown.aflvic.com.au

THE WORD FROM WILLIAMSTOWN—JUNE 2007 Page 4 Check us out at williamstown.footballvic.com.au