Souvenir edition • August 6, 2011 25 YEARS STRONG

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West Coast Eagles soar Eagles Coast West Happily helping the the helping Happily The Weekend West • August 6, 2011

Know the score: In round 22 last year coached his 3 210th game for West Coast, which is one more than he played. 25 YEARS STRONG

WORDS: MARK DUFFIELD INDEX Malthouse looks back 5 Worsfold’s vision 6 Woosha the messiah The club 8,9 Eagles set standard 10 f it wasn’t offi cial before, it is now. their player group lived like rock stars off it. It took Worsfold to the very edge of Priddis’ miracle game 11 West Coast coach John Worsfold The way back from those days, which coaching credibility. He kept pronouncing Our All-Star team 12,13 has usurped included two grand fi nals and a premier- that his team was on track when the 25 magic moments 14 as the most infl uential fi gure in the ship but unravelled with the sacking of rest of the football world was convinced Unsung hero 16,17 highly successful 25-year history , the departure of premiership the Eagles had reversed their position The unlucky ones 19 of the football club. captain and a series of scandals from the success-drenched but The immortals 20 IThe clincher has been Worsfold’s that rocked one of the AFL’s most power- scandal-riddled days of 2005 successful rebuild of his team — a project ful clubs to its very foundations, was a and 2006. Cummings’ fondest game 21 three years in the making and unleashed painful exercise. The club plunged to the Worsfold was subject to Every player who’s ever played 22 on an unsuspecting AFL competition in bottom of the ladder for the fi rst time in its criticism and ridicule and his stunning fashion during the 2011 season. history and missed fi nals three years in a sacking became a matter of not THE TEAM Malthouse, who made the Eagles a row — another fi rst. if but when. Editor: Ray Wilson national powerhouse in the early 1990s, The ‘smart money’ suggested Design: Steve Penn coached their fi rst premiership team the coach would be axed early this Contributors: Mark Duffi eld, in 1992 and another in 1994 and never season when it was predicted the Steve Butler, Ray Wilson, missed a fi nals series during 10 years in Eagles would be staring down the Craig O’Donoghue, Dale Miller , made for a hard target to chase barrel of a 2-6 win-loss record. Pictures: down. Now, you can fi le those theories and Getty Images But his dual premiership captain along with Y2K doom and Bob Illustration: Don Lindsay has got him now, imposing his own Hawke’s “by 1990 no Australian child fi ngerprint on a club not just because of will be living in poverty” pronounce- attaining and regaining on-fi eld success, ments. but because of his role in reclaiming Worsfold, known for his unbend- the club’s soul. ing will during a 209-game career West Coast rarely lose their way when he never left anything on on the fi eld. They won more games in the fi eld, has now prevailed as a their debut season under Ron Alexan- coach. der in 1987 (11) than any fi rst-year team He hasn’t just remade the Eagles’ since. They made the fi nals sooner — in playing list, he also has helped their second year — than any team since. rebuild the club’s soul and restored They played in a grand fi nal in 1991 in its place in the community. their fi fth year, won a premiership in their In that context, West Coast’s 25th sixth year and only Hawthorn (four fl ags) anniversary should not just be a have bettered their three in 25 years in the celebration of what the club has been competition. but also what it has now become. West Coast have missed the fi nals just No person has had more to do with seven times in that time, that than Worsfold, the captain who another record no refused to surrender and the coach other club of their who refused to bend, winning out era has matched. over the odds on both fronts. But they lost their way off -fi eld in the late 1990s and . While still formidable on the park, a section of West Coast Eagles and Seven. A Centimetre Perfect partnership from day one. Now that’s special.

CONGRATULATIONS WEST COAST EAGLES, WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE SHAREDARED IN YOUR SUCCESS. The Weekend West • August 6, 2011

Know the score: In 1991 coach Mick Malthouse’s winning percentage 5 was an incredible 81 after the Eagles won 21 games — but not the fl ag. 25 YEARS STRONG

WORDS: STEVE BUTLER Eagles take giant strides after road trips from hell The making of West Coast as an AFL powerhouse came through resilience in defeat in 1990, according to dual Eagles premiership coach Mick Malthouse

gruelling six-week travel “The club had never won a fi nal and was mates when he fi rst addressed them. But “And I was just astounded that players schedule, including a the absolute underdog in the semi against a new standard was soon established with had an understanding of who played in preliminary fi nal loss to . But we beat them and I the help of Malthouse’s confi dantes Rob- the under-19s down at West Perth, but Essendon, saw West Coast thought that it was not only the guts of the bie Wiley (Richmond), Ian Miller (Fitzroy), probably couldn’t tell you who played travel to Carrara on the organisation, but the guts of those players. Tim Gepp (Richmond) and George Young centre half-forward for Essendon. Gold Coast, “What a wonderful testament to courage (St Kilda), who had all played in the VFL. “But we alleviated all that very quickly. Ato play before four consecutive and sustainability, you just knew we were “There were a few hidden snags in That player group opened up and accepted fi nals at in Melbourne to on to something fantastic.” the stream, so to speak, that I was very what I was trying to get across. They fi nish the 1990 season. Malthouse remains West Coast’s most unaware of,” Malthouse said. “One was embraced it and in the end, they owned it. “My favourite recollection at Colling- decorated coach after guiding them the fear of and the record at the MCG. I “The more we bled for our team, the wood is a team photograph from the 2002 through a remarkable 10 seasons follow- was told at the time that there had been more we created the team.” grand fi nal, but my favourite time looking ing his move to Perth late in 1989. no West Australian side ever, whether it Malthouse was cautious about naming back at West Coast was our last six games The 1980 Richmond premiership be junior, or West Coast or his best players during his time at West in 1990,” Malthouse said. defender initially regarded himself a anyone, who had ever won at the MCG. Coast. “That to me was the makings of our distant third to win the job behind Robert “I was also concerned when people at and are football club. We had six games away and Walls and . the football club told me we needed to be the best two best players he had seen but that was absolutely the makings of our After winning the post, Malthouse fi ve or six goals better than the opposition quickly added that four-times Eagles club 1991 run (to the grand fi nal) and our 1992 was overwhelmed by the WA parochial- to be able to win away and I saw them champion had regularly premiership. ism, both in the vehement dislike for both as highly negative infl uences. conquered Carey under his watch. “There was no TV on the planes and Victorian football and in the way the “It was so wrong to even remotely have “I had a real soft spot for Glen, he is a rip- even an airline strike, but there were no Eagles players coveted their WAFL teams those things on your mind. I was told we ping bloke and I loved the way he played,” complaints. On the sixth trip of the run we more than their opportunity in the new couldn’t travel (and win), and the game he said. “If he was a centre half-back in went from Perth to Kalgoorlie, Kalgoorlie national competition. style was skewiff for AFL football as far as Melbourne, he would be voted in the best to Mildura and Mildura to Melbourne and He recalled a mad rush by players to sit I was concerned because it was very off en- 10 or 12 players who have gone around.” there was not one complaint. at the same tables as their WAFL team- sive with no mention of defence. He also said ’s 111 goals and 89 behinds (“and another 30 out on the full”) in 1991 was a standout individual performance. Malthouse said the club always remained close to his thoughts.

WEST COAST FINISHES UNDER MALTHOUSE 1990 third 1995 sixth 1991 second 1996 fi fth 1992 fi rst 1997 sixth 1993 fourth 1998 seventh 1994 fi rst 1999 fi fth You beauty: John Worsfold and Mick Malthouse hold aloft the 1992 premiership cup. Right: Malthouse with Glen Jakovich. The Weekend West • August 6, 2011

Know the score: collected 48 disposals against St Kilda in the fi nal 25 YEARS STRONG qualifying game of 1987 at but didn’t poll a vote. 6

WORDS: RAY WILSON Two more bites at a fl ag WORSFOLD ON How many times do you see a slow-mo GAME PLANS replay almost a full arm higher than big Our game style had to change after the blokes that he’s jumping against? He’s 2006 premiership because our personnel already a good player, already an impact changed. Had we had the same players I player. He is going to be an exceptional would have kept the same style of footy player, not a 30-possession type but doing going, no doubt. And it still would have things to make the team look better. been good enough to win. LOOKING BACK Back then some people called it One of strongest memories I have at the man-on-man, we thought it was 18 blokes club is fi rst meeting , Phil in position, never allowing the opposition Narkle and John Annear, the guys who a loose man. These days, in a nutshell, our came back from Melbourne. It suddenly style revolves around getting the ball into hit home that we were in a serious busi- our forward line and locking it in. If the ness. I’d grown up wearing the No.4 North opposition get it, our aim is to win it back Melbourne guernsey (Glendinning’s) at off them as quickly as we can. training with my junior footy club, so We wanted Phillip Walsh (strategist) to that was pretty special. I loved playing ery few people were from CEO and chairman join us because we felt he was probably with those blokes and others like Michael willing to gamble on John Alan Cransberg. He also went outside the the pioneer of the way the game has gone. Brennan and Robbie Wiley, all the time Worsfold’s hobby horse square in an eff ort to improve his coaching. I wanted to get our team to play that way trying to show that you were worthy of last year. But suddenly, the Midway through last season, Worsfold because it was an area where we could get playing alongside them. world according to Woosha already had changed the set-ups for better as a team. isV taking shape, much to the delight of his lieutenants, and he also invited Ric West Coast fans and to the amazement of Charlesworth, a world-renowned strategist ON COACHING the football universe in general. and coach, to the club to address the VERSUS PLAYING Worsfold’s sermons about the potential Eagles’ coaching group. The roles are so diff erent. A seven-year-old of the team to challenge for a premiership Worsfold also sought the input of the dreams about playing footy at any level, from 2012 were greeted with cynicism and, head coaches of the All Blacks. He had a he doesn’t dream about one day wanting at times, ridicule. skype session with assistant coach Wayne to be a coach. As a player you go home After a summer of soul-searching and Smith and met with head coach Graham after a loss and say to yourself that at least fact-fi nding, Worsfold has steered West Henry when in New Zealand over summer. you did your best. As a coach, you feel Coast into a position close to where he “Graham didn’t know anything about it’s totally your responsibility. You ask said they’d be. me or the sport but I just talked to him me whether I’d like to coach And, now, he has a few more proclama- about coaching to get some diff erent for another decade. My tions that the footy faithful might want to ideas, so I implemented a few things there,” answer is yes and no. tune in to. Worsfold said. Yes, because I love The erudite coach claims his team has “I discussed with him where I felt I was the involvement two premiership windows in the coming at with my playing group and I appreci- in the game, years — one with and one without veterans ated talking to someone totally outside and no such as , , Andrew our organisation — how he saw things because it Embley and . with player issues, dealing with older and wears you down, “There is an opportunity while these younger players, that sort of thing.” it is guys are still playing, and I believe there Worsfold also took a more direct intense and will remain an opportunity when they communication line to the players, but it off ers very little respite. have fi nished,” Worsfold said. “We’re very wasn’t a go-for-broke approach as sug- The answer could be yes but comfortable with the players we have gested by some people because he was in I might need a gap year! been pushing up, the likes of , the last year of his contract. and . “There’s no doubt I was more distant ON CAPTAINCY “If we don’t win a premiership with the from the players last year even though I is an outstanding older guys still playing, then the likes of still met them regularly one-on-one,” he leader, so, too, is Josh Kennedy and Beau Waters and might be the said. “It was more contrived than natural. in diff erent ways. veterans in the next premiership. They I’ve gone back to a more natural feel, a gut ’s another. We have will be the real senior players and others feel and communicate with the players some outstanding leaders there. Some like , Scott Selwood and Luke that way. are stronger on fi eld than off fi eld, all are a Shuey will be the 100-game players, and “I was so focused on trying to explain little bit diff erent. experienced in their own right.” the future of the club I got away a bit from There can be a case made where you In measures ranging from methods coaching day to day. have more than one captain. That would you’d expect from an ordered, scientifi c “The words were never hollow to me be possible, especially if you had two guys mind to simple gut feelings, Worsfold because I was backing in our recruiters who were both great leaders in totally turned himself around as much as the and that was a big reason why I was diff erent areas and there was no crossover. playing group after a tumultuous confi dent saying we have got talent 2010 which threatened to end his going forward. And all of a sudden we ON NAITANUI coaching career. went from people looking at the club If you didn’t know he was 202cm, you’d The scientist in Worsfold called for and asking ‘where is the talent’ to ‘what a say he was a real good mover in the way feedback from coaches and players, and talented list’, in one summer.” he hunts the footy. His leap is exceptional. CONGRATULATIONS WEST COAST EAGLES 25 YEARS & STILL FLYING HIGH! From Retravision - another proud West Australian, still going strong after 50 years. 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Know the score: In the fi nal home-and-away game of 2006 25 YEARS STRONG West Coast kicked 11.1 in the third term against Richmond. 8 9

do The club go bu ye 1992 an

We were a young side in 1991, especially on myself and a few others like . be Playing at Waverley in the grand fi nal wh with all the greats that I looked up to at re Hawthorn, we were a bit shell shocked alm and they came out and pretty much belted us physically. m The fi rst thing of the 1992 grand fi nal an I recall was Gary Ablett taking out Don su Pyke in a forward pocket. I was probably go about 20m away. To see Donny go down, he was pretty ta much out of it. He wanted to get up and lo keep going and just to see him come back be about half an hour later had a big impact on the game. ABOVE: A We went in at half-time 12 points down celebrates West Coast’s but we knew that going into the third 2006 fl ag with Beau W quarter they were running out of legs. If Waters, left, Ash Hansen, ex we stuck at our game plan and did our job , Rowan in individually, we knew we could get over Jones and Sam Butler. so the line. FAR LEFT: Peter Matera on Dean Kemp’s game was awesome, punches the air after along with the performance of Brett receiving the 1992 Norm ou Heady. was a player who we Smith Medal from Carlton th had to watch and he was going really well great . in the fi rst half. Brett did a really good job LEFT: Chris Judd on him. rehearses his speech There was also some personal glory in 2005. with the fi ve goals that I kicked, particu- BELOW: Dean Kemp larly the one that put us in the lead from holds aloft the 1994 outside 50m. It was a great feeling of relief premiership cup. that we were on our way to winning a fl ag. I remember Peter Wilson’s goal over his head and just the one-on-one battles all day. I think it showed what 21 guys could do when they were committed. pretty happy when I got some early kicks. the start of that day. I was sitting in the The fi rst 10 minutes after the siren was I always thought Geelong would be hotel room with Kerry (Daniel Kerr) and a bit of a shock in a way. It really didn’t better than the fi rst time and have a few we were getting up to go to the toilet every sink in until we were down in the rooms tricks up their sleeve, but once we got on fi ve minutes. with family and friends. top we pulled away. It’s an awesome feel- The worst bit was waiting at the hotel, ing when you know you’re far enough in but once you got to the ground, you were DEAN KEMP 1994 front and can’t lose. just doing what you do. In a funny way, it I’d kicked a goal during the third quar- was almost a relief. We prepared for the grand fi nal diff erently ter and then got another one in the fi nal The last fi ve games against Sydney to home-and-away games. Our hotel was term. I was trying to pass the ball to Chris almost seemed like one long game — just just across the road from the MCG and we Lewis from about 55m out but the kick one big, long arm-wrestle. walked to the ground because Mick went over his head and it kept bouncing The last quarter went for some time (Malthouse) wanted us to be among the and dribbled through. We ran past each and I was in the contest for the crowd and soak up the atmosphere. other not long after that and I said sorry mark at the end. Eagles fans were encouraging us and about the pass, but he said ‘don’t worry I remember thinking we were still a Geelong fans were into us saying things about that, I’m rapt’. chance until he took that mark and that that you could never repeat. But we were I was blown away when they was the last roll of the dice. a tight group and walking to the ground announced I’d won the Norm Smith The main thing I remember, pretty together was a really special moment. Medal. You’re standing there among the much from both grand fi nals, was the Being a grand fi nal, you always want to guys and having a lot of fun and then to complete exhaustion at the end of the get your hands on the ball early so you can hear your name read out is unbelievable. games. build confi dence and keep any negative You’ve just won a premiership and you get It was almost as if you’d played every thoughts out of your head. the Norm Smith Medal, too. It has made game of the season and every fi nal at once I wasn’t sure who I’d play on before my life. and you were just cooked. came my way. He’d played Obviously that year the exhaustion on Peter Matera in 1992 so I thought if I CHRIS JUDD 2005 was coupled with the sadness of the fact could start well, that may get him think- that we didn’t get the job done. At that ing about things he’d rather forget. I was I remember being incredibly nervous at point, you can’t stop your mind jumping 011 The Weekend West • August 6, 2011

Know the score: Ben Cousins and Glen Jakovich share the 8 9 most number of club champion awards with four apiece. 25 YEARS STRONG

down the track, wondering if you’re ever We knew how good a team Sydney were THE SCOREBOARDS going to get one. and we knew all the games we’d played 1992 GRAND FINAL Very few of our players had good games, against them previously had been extreme- WEST COAST 16.17 (113) def GEELONG 12.13 (85) but we still only lost by four points. The ly close. GOALS — WEST COAST: P Sumich 6; P Matera 5; T Evans 3; P Wilson 2. GEELONG: year later, it was like everyone played well We’d gone into half-time with a good B Brownless, G Ablett 3; N Bruns, P Couch, K Hinkley, T Poole, P Riccardi, B Stoneham. and we only won by a point. lead and we were confi dent. We’d been BEST — WEST COAST: P Matera, A McIntosh, T Evans, D Kemp, B Heady, P Sumich, I obviously look back with fondness playing good football, but then after half- J Worsfold. GEELONG: K Hinkley, T McGrath, B Stoneham, P Couch, M Bairstow, G Hocking. on the premiership we won the year later time Sydney, like all good sides do, came 1994 GRAND FINAL because it gives you a sense that no matter back at us. WEST COAST 20.23 (143) def GEELONG 8.15 (63) what happens in your footy career, you’ve I remember kicking a goal GOALS — WEST COAST: T Evans 3; B Heady, D Kemp, P Sumich, P Wilson, S Bond, J Ball, really achieved what you set out to do. It’s early in the fi nal quarter and it made the C Lewis, C Waterman 2; D Banfi eld. GEELONG: B Brownless 4; A Wills, G Ablett, P Couch, P Riccardi. almost like a bit of a security blanket. game really tight. I looked up at the score- BEST — WEST COAST: D Kemp, G Jakovich, D Pyke, G McKenna, M Brennan, T Evans. The whole thing about collecting the board and thought ‘we’ve got a big game on GEELONG: M Mansfi eld, S O’Reilly, B Brownless, P Riccardi, P Couch, G Hocking. medal is a real blur. I just remember losing our hands here’. 2005 GRAND FINAL and feeling fl at and exhausted and all of a It was just an incredible feeling when SYDNEY 8.10 (58) def WEST COAST 7.12 (54) sudden someone was telling me I had to that siren sounded. I just remember falling GOALS — SYDNEY: B Hall 2; A Goodes, A Schneider, A Buchanan, T Kennelly, M O’Loughlin, go on stage. to my knees and I had my head in my hands D Jolly. WEST COAST: A Hunter 2; A Hansen, D Cox, B Cousins, A Embley, M Nicoski. I don’t want to downplay the impor- and just couldn’t believe what we’d just BEST — SYDNEY: A Buchanan, N Fosdike, B Kirk, L Roberts-Thomson, J Bolton, L Barry, tance of the Norm Smith, but when you achieved. It was a surreal moment. A Goodes. WEST COAST: C Judd, D Wirrpanda, D Cox, B Cousins, A Embley, A Hunter. lose the grand fi nal it’s sort of a side issue I felt just total relief. It was one of the 2006 GRAND FINAL because it’s not what you’re there for. most mentally draining games that I’ve WEST COAST 12.13 (85) def SYDNEY 12.12 (84) ever been involved in. GOALS — WEST COAST: Q Lynch 3; A Hansen, B Cousins, A Embley 2; C Judd, y I was totally surprised when my name S Armstrong, A Hunter. SYDNEY: M O’Loughlin, N Davis 3; B Mathews, ANDREW EMBLEY 2006 L Roberts-Thomson, A Goodes, A Schneider, R O’Keefe, N Malceski. s got read out for the Norm Smith Medal. BEST — WEST COAST: A Embley, D Cox, D Kerr, C Judd, We’d been there in 2005 and the result was You’re just so wrapped up in the moment. B Waters, A Hansen, C Fletcher, D Chick. SYDNEY: B Kirk, n, extremely disappointing. I think I realised I almost forgot there was a winner of the T Kennelly, A Goodes, T Richards, J McVeigh, in that 2006 grand fi nal week that it’s just medal. N Fosdike, A Buchanan. so hard to make a grand fi nal, let alone win I ended up being diagnosed with a one and here we were. paralysed vocal chords. That particular We’d worked extremely hard to give week heading into the grand fi nal was m ourselves another chance. I remember actually the best my voice had been for on thinking we’re not going to let this one go. three or four weeks. I’d just totally lost it.

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Know the score: West Coast’s lowest score of 1.12 came on an 25 YEARS STRONG infamous day at Windy Hill in 1989 when Essendon booted 25.10. 10 1

WORDS: RAY WILSON W TOP OF THE CLASS SINCE 1987 Team Premiers Losing GF Muscling in on Hawthorn 1988, 89, 91, 2008 1987 M West Coast 1992, 94, 2006 1991, 2005 Brisbane 2001-03 2004 Geelong 2007, 2009 1989, 92, 94, 95, 2008 d the big boys Collingwood 1990, 2010 2002-03 Carlton 1987, 95 1993, 99 E hen West Coast come from non-Victorian clubs, with Essendon 1993, 2000 1990, 2001 fi entered the then Brisbane and West Coast leading the way Nth Melbourne 1996, 1999 1998 VFL in 1987 there with three each. 1997-98 — fr was plenty of Brisbane’s came with a rush from promise but a pre- 2001-03 while the Eagles were supreme Port Adelaide 2004 2007 miership in the in 1992 and 1994, before snaffl ing their Sydney 2005 1996, 2006 Wfi rst few years was built more on prayers third premiership in an epic one-point Since 1987, Fremantle, St Kilda, Western than substance. heart-stopper against Sydney in 2006. Bulldogs, Melbourne and Richmond have At that time, if somebody had Under , Adelaide yet to break the premiership drought. guaranteed the Eagles three premierships snared the 1997-98 premierships while * Collingwood also drew with St Kilda in in their fi rst quarter of a century, the club Port Adelaide’s day in the sun came on the fi rst grand fi nal in 2010. hierarchy would have gleefully accepted. September 25, 2004 when they beat Flags are tough to come by, just ask Brisbane by 40 points. A year later, Richmond, Melbourne, St Kilda, the Sydney (formerly South Melbourne) While West Coast top the non-Victori- and Fremantle. embraced their fi rst fl ag since 1933. an clubs with fi ve appearances in grand All those clubs have failed to win a fl ag Hawthorn are the only Victorian club to fi nals, the hapless Geelong have been in since the competition expanded to take better the premiership successes of West the frame to win seven premierships but in West Coast and the in Coast and Brisbane since the two non- managed only two, in 2007 and 2009. 1987, and subsequently, Adelaide in 1991, Victorian clubs paid their way to become Hawthorn (1989, 2008), West Coast (1992 jumps for joy as Fremantle in 1995, Port Adelaide in 1997 part of the competition. The Hawks won and 1994) and Carlton (1995) all smashed the West Coast Eagles win their fi rst and Gold Coast this year. four fl ags, in 1988, 1989, 1991, 2008, and the Cats’ dreams on the biggest day of grand fi nal in 1992. Picture: Rod Taylor Ten of the last 25 premierships have also lost to Carlton in the 1987 grand fi nal. the year. M

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Important things you should know: This product is issued by Bank of Western Australia Ltd ABN 22 050 494 454 AFSL 236872. Any advice given is of a general natur e only and is not based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. The account requires a minimum deposit of $5,000. There is a $2,000,000 maximum investment limit per customer. You shoul d consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and whether the product is right for you. A PDS is available from 011 The Weekend West • August 6, 2011 Know the score: In Chris Judd’s only game at WAFL level for East Perth 0 11 he kicked fi ve goals and polled top votes in the . 25 YEARS STRONG

WORDS: DALE MILLER or , the fi rst taste was in the side to replace . of the big time is especially “Before I’d even got on the ground hard to forget. Adam Hunter had been pushed into the F The West Coast playmaker dugout and broke his nose and he had his 7 My dream made his debut at 21, fi nally head wrapped,” Priddis said. 5 earning his shot after being “ went back with the Foverlooked in three national drafts and fl ight and collided with Gary Ablett. It was 4 battling negative perceptions over his a really great contest between those two. 8 debut lack of speed and ball use. “I think from that moment you 3 And when the moment fi nally came just really took notice that this is AFL 9 Every AFL footballer cherishes their at a blustery Skilled Stadium in round 10, football and the boys who are out there 1 fi rst game and the rush that comes 2006, it wasn’t just any game. mean business.” 8 The Eagles — missing an injured Chris West Coast kicked just four goals in Judd — appeared down and out at the the fi rst half, but two majors from outside — from reaching the elite level 18-minute mark of the third quarter when 50m from Andrew Embley and another 7 they trailed Geelong by 54 points. three from Tyson Stenglein were pivotal 6 But the 2006 premiers produced one in the late charge. of the more remarkable comebacks in Priddis recalls the infl uence of Kerr, AFL history to stun the hosts and triumph whose 31 disposals earned him three by three points, 16.5 (101) to 15.8 (98). Brownlow Medal votes. “He was the Priddis still rates that game as one of complete midfi elder,” Priddis said. the most memorable of his career. “To be able to win it in close and then to “Even if my career ended at that one be able to run and carry. He kicked a really game it would have been a pretty special good, inspirational goal in that third term i- day for me,” Priddis said. and it was just an inspiring performance.” d “I remember at half-time they had Priddis, who played just one more n massive belief in their ability, their fi tness, match in that premiership year, is now ut the game plan. They just never felt like a mainstay of West Coast’s midfi eld and they were out of it. still feels deeply indebted to the club 92 “The heroics of Ben Cousins, Daniel which gave him a rookie position at the ed Kerr, I think that really stood out to me.” end of 2005. Priddis, the travelling emergency, was “It’s everything that I dreamt of and Matt Priddis celebrates his debut against Geelong. Picture: SMG Images told an hour before bouncedown that he wanted to be a part of,” Priddis said.

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Know the score: , Peter Matera and Daniel Kerr have all been runners-up in the Brownlow Medal.

BACKS HALF-BACKS CENTRES HALF-FORWARDS FO DREW GUY PETER BRETT P BANFIELD McKENNA MATERA HEADY M Born: Feb 27, 1974 Born: May 11, 1969 Born: April 3, 1969 Born: Jan 4, 1970 B Debut: 1993 Debut: 1988 Debut: 1990 Debut: 1990 D Guernsey Guernsey Guernsey Guernsey G No: 31, 6 No: 17 No: 30 No: 39, 1 N Games: 265 Games: 267 Games: 253 Games: 156 G

DARREN GLEN DEAN MITCHELL P GLASS JAKOVICH KEMP WHITE S Born: May 14, 1981 Born: March 24, 1973 Born: Feb 17, 1969 Born: March 28, 1973 B Debut: 2000 Debut: 1991 Debut: 1990 Debut: 1991 D Guernsey Guernsey Guernsey Guernsey G No: 23 No: 48, 27 No: 33, 2 No: 47, 31, 12 N Games: 212 Games: 276 Games: 243 Games: 151 G

ASHLEY JOHN CHRIS CHRIS M McINTOSH WORSFOLD MAINWARING LEWIS L Born: Oct 20, 1972 Born: Sept 25, 1968 Born: Dec 27, 1965 Born: March 17, 1969 B Debut: 1991 Debut: 1987 Debut: 1987 Debut: 1987 D Guernsey Guernsey Guernsey Guernsey G No: 53, 11 No: 24 No: 3 No: 28 N Games: 242 Games: 209 Games: 201 Games: 215 G

Our Eagles All-Stars Chief football writer Mark Duffi eld and Ray Wilson select the cream of the crop from the past 25 years

ome of West Coast’s contem- From our All-Star team selected to Evans deserved their spots on Medal in 2005 and, though ineligible, he porary heroes have edged out mark West Coast’s 20th year, Michael the bench. fi nished top three in 2006 and 2007. four of yesteryear’s top-liners Brennan, , Dwayne The four newcomers came to the Embley has stood the test of time. in our Eagles All-Star line-up Lamb and are all selection table armed with glowing A member of West Coast’s 200-club, of the last 25 years. unlucky to have lost their spots. references. Glass, captain since 2008, the veteran has reserved some of his SSkipper Darren Glass, classy forward Brennan and Waterman are dual has twice won the club champion award best performances for fi nals matches, Mark LeCras, utility player Andrew premiership players while Lamb was a and is a two-times All-Australian. He with his eff ort in the 2006 grand fi nal Embley and on-baller Daniel Kerr all superb run-with player who each week could easily get the nod from selectors rewarded with the Norm Smith Medal. have undeniable claims for inclusion. was handed some of football’s toughest again this season after recovering from LeCras, at 24, is the youngest And there was also strong discussion challenges. He also played in the 1992 his injury-riddled 2010. member of the All-Star team. While on whether Josh Kennedy, in his fourth premiership. Kerr was listed as an emergency the talented goal sneak has spread his season, had fulfi lled enough of a residen- Gardiner, a 2003 All-Australian, in the 2006 line-up which was chosen wings this season with shifts in the tial period to be included. While it appears loses his place despite 129 games for in August. Since then, he has won midfi eld, he was awarded All-Australian inevitable that the big forward will one the club. We’ve gone with only one All-Australian honours in 2007 and was honours last season as a small forward day make the team, he probably needs to ruckman because we fi gured that outstanding in the 2006 premiership. and many critics believed he also should push further claims this year and next. Kerr, Embley, and Tony He was runner-up in the Brownlow have been named in the team in 2009. #$$ G[XJXX^XaWJXfg—4hZhfg) %#$$

Know the score: In 2006 Sydney beat West Coast 85 points to 84 in the fi rst qualifying fi nal before the Eagles reversed the scores to take the grand fi nal.

FORWARDS RUCK INTERCHANGE PHIL DEAN DANIEL DON MATERA COX KERR PYKE Born: Nov 27, 1975 Born: Aug 1, 1981 Born: May 16, 1983 Born: Dec 5, 1968 Debut: 1996 Debut: 2001 Debut: 2001 Debut: 1989 Guernsey Guernsey Guernsey Guernsey No: 33 No: 20 No: 34, 4 No: 1, 10 Games: 179 Games: 218 Games: 181 Games: 132

PETER CHRIS ANDREW TONY SUMICH JUDD EMBLEY EVANS Born: Jan 11, 1968 Born: Sept 8, 1983 Born: June 27, 1981 Born: June 14, 1969 Debut: 1989 Debut: 2002 Debut: 1999 Debut: 1991 Guernsey Guernsey Guernsey Guernsey No: 4 No: 3 No: 32 No: 40, 18 Games: 150 Games: 134 Games: 222 Games: 108

*For current players, MARK BEN LeCRAS COUSINS games played before Born: Aug 30, 1986 Born: June 30, 1978 round 19, 2011 Debut: 2005 Debut: 1996 Guernsey Guernsey No: 19, 2 No: 9 Games: 91 Games: 238

he 25 YEARS ALL-STAR TEAM 20 YEARS ALL-STAR TEAM B: Drew Banfi eld Darren Glass Ashley McIntosh B: Drew Banfi eld Michael Brennan Ashley McIntosh HB: Guy McKenna Glen Jakovich John Worsfold HB: Guy McKenna Glen Jakovich John Worsfold C: Peter Matera Dean Kemp Chris Mainwaring C: Peter Matera Dean Kemp Chris Mainwaring HF: Brett Heady HF: Brett Heady Mitchell White Chris Lewis F: Phil Matera Peter Sumich Mark LeCras F: Phil Matera Peter Sumich Michael Gardiner Ruck: Dean Cox, Chris Judd, Ben Cousins Ruck: Dean Cox, Chris Judd, Ben Cousins an Interchange: Daniel Kerr, Andrew Embley, Interchange: Don Pyke, Tony Evans, ld Don Pyke, Tony Evans , Chris Waterman The Weekend West • August 6, 2011

Know the score: Ross Glendinning carved his reputation as a key defender for North 25 YEARS STRONG Melbourne but was leading goal kicker in his two seasons as skipper of West Coast. 14

WORDS: RAY WILSON AND MARK DUFFIELD reasons 25 to light the candles It hasn’t been all beer and skittles for West Coast over 25 years but the highlights kept coming

Ben Cousins in a classical pose as checks his progress.

Glen Jakovich racked up 29 Daniel Chick’s smother on 12 disposals and collected the three 19 Ryan O’Keefe and subsequent Chris Mainwaring and Ross Glendinning Brownlow votes in a masterful handball to Adam Hunter set up a in 1987, West Coast’s fi rst season. performance against Wayne Carey (14 match-winning goal against Sydney in touches) in round 21, 1994, at the WACA. the 2006 grand fi nal. booted four goals In the fi rst in round 7, Cousins’ amazing 38-possession 1 after West Coast came from 33 13 1995, the highly skilled and at times 20 eff ort in his comeback against points down at three-quarter time to beat recklessly brave Brett Heady kicked fi ve Sydney at Subiaco Oval in round 16, 2007 Richmond by 14 points in the fi rst game goals to earn best-afi eld honours as the — his fi rst match since the 2006 grand on March 29, 1987. Eagles sought to exert an authority on fi nal. Ross Glendinning’s commanding their young rivals. Dean Cox loves playing football 2 performance against Footscray in Peter Sumich kicked 13.3 against Chris Judd’s star was already on 21 but in 2008 he especially relished 1987 at the WACA when he booted 7.5 to Footscray in 1991. 14 the rise but it became even brighter his assignments against Brisbane, when lift the Eagles to victory. He fi nished the 1991 season with when he kicked fi ve fi rst-half goals against he collected a combined 65 disposals in Chris Mainwaring was best 7 111.89 but Sumich was on target Brisbane at in round 12, 2003. two games. 3 afi eld on Hawthorn legend Robert when he booted 13.3 against Footscray at Daniel Kerr’s four-bounce, Nic Naitanui’s three-goal last DiPierdomenico in one of West Coast’s the WACA in round 13. 15 running against 22 quarter against Hawthorn on a dark most famous victories — against the One Brownlow vote doesn’t do Fremantle in round 22, 2003. Kerr polled and stormy night at Patersons Stadium in Hawks on Anzac Day, 1987. 8 justice to the unstinting eff orts of two Brownlow votes in West Coast’s loss. 2009 offi cially announced the arrival of a ’s 23-disposal eff ort Michael Brennan who six times fi nished Ben Cousins became the second new star. 4 in the semifi nal victory over in the top 10 of the club . 16 Eagle to win the Brownlow Medal With his head swathed in bandages, Melbourne at Waverley Park in 1990 Dean Kemp, Peter Matera and in 2005 after Judd’s success the year 23 Mark LeCras celebrated a 12-goal showed what might have been. Injuries 9 Don Pyke starred in the 1992 before. Kerr polled 19 votes, just one haul against Essendon at Etihad Stadium cruelled what shaped as a magnifi cent elimination fi nal against Hawthorn at behind Cousins. in 2010. career, with the ruckman-forward playing Subiaco Oval — a classic heavyweight reached Josh Kennedy was on a seek a total of only 36 games. clash which kept West Coast’s 17 stratospheric heights with his mark 24 and destroy mission against the Troy Ugle went from villain to premiership dream alive. of the year in 2005 when he sat on the Western Bulldogs at Patersons Stadium 5 hero against St Kilda in round 15, Tony Evans booted two shoulders of teammate Andrew Embley in round 9 this year when he booted 1990, when his opponent Craig Devonport 10 opportunistic goals in the second before getting an extra lift from Adem Yze. 10 goals. helped the Saints to a 44-point fi rst-term half of the second term to trim Geelong’s Michael Braun, Cousins and Shannon Hurn kicks like a lead before the nuggety utility player lead to only two goals at half-time of the 18 Kerr were the heroes in an upset 25 mule and while he’s normally moved forward and kicked six goals in a 1992 grand fi nal. 82-point victory over Adelaide at Subiaco fi nding targets from his defensive post remarkable West Coast triumph. Peter Matera twice kicked fi ve Oval in 2005. The Eagles had 227 he kicked a 65m goal in his debut Peter Sumich kicked a point after 11 goals in a match. One was against handballs and 208 kicks to dismantle against Brisbane in 2006, and one of 6 the siren to tie the scores and force a Brisbane in 1995 but his more memorable the Crows who at that stage were eight his three majors against Port replay of the qualifying fi nal against haul was in 1992 when he set up West points and 62 per cent clear on top of the Adelaide this year travelled the Collingwood at Waverley Park in 1990. Coast’s fi rst premiership. ladder. same distance. ’sthe Eagles!

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Know the score: The SCG has not been a happy hunting ground for 25 YEARS STRONG West Coast who have won only three games there from 16 starts. 16 17

WORDS:WORDS: RRAY WILSON An unsung hero ItIt wwasas a moment. There were many throughout hishis 158-game15 career but this one was the most pertinent

ew players committed as Had the Swans defender won the ball, something I could hang my hat on. It selfl essly as Rowan Jones who he had the clear ground to take it forward typifi ed my whole career in a way. was unsung on the terraces but and, at the very least, scramble a point to “I was never a fl ashy player. It was just a West Coast’s inner sanctum draw the game. matter of doing things for the team, things placed a premium on his Jones knew the enormity of the that went unnoticed.” performances. individual battle in this war of attrition. Jones, an investment advisor with FWiWithth 3300 seconds remaining in the The Eagle gathered the ball after it spilt Entrust Private Wealth, often has been 220200606 ggrandraand fi nal, with the nerves of 97,431 free following the chest-on collision with praised by Chris Judd because of the way pepeopleople aatt ththe MCG in a mess, the Eagles Barry. He shovelled it to he rode shotgun over West Coast’s vaunted lelledd SySydneyddney by a point. who got it on to Beau Waters. Seconds midfi eld. He blocked and hindered the St DDanielaaniel KKerr had the ball on the wing. later it was out of bounds, and on the progress of opposition taggers and hunters JoJonesnes wawas patrolling through the centre throw-in the siren sounded. hell-bent on burying the likes of Judd, Ben bubutt wiwithtth ttheh game so tight he didn’t expect “I’d be lying if I didn’t say after that Cousins and Kerr. sta KeKerrrr ttoo ddirectire the ball his way. But he did. game that I was glad to be part of that play,” “Given our midfi eld, everybody had to co ThThen,hen, ththe combat began. The ball was Jones said. “I thought it was reasonably have a role,” Jones said. “A few of us, Daniel rurunningnnning bebetweent Jones and Leo Barry signifi cant but nothing really got made of Chick, Tyson Stenglein and I, were pre- of whwhoo kknewnew a thing or two about being a it after the game. dominantly there to block and create space fi n heheroeror aafterfter hhis epic mark the previous year “Once I retired, a lot more people have because you play to your strengths and we ststoppedtopped WeWest Coast in their tracks within brought it up. It’s nice, and fl attering in had to be smart enough to understand our bu sesecondseconds ooff the fi nal siren. a way. Without big noting myself, it was role was to do the team thing. ne

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20 MKT060811_910693 011 The Weekend West • August 6, 2011

Know the score: Favourite son Chris Mainwaring fi nished in the top fi ve of the club 6 17 champion award fi ve times and was a runner-up three times, but never won the trophy. 25 YEARS STRONG

HONOUR ROLL Year Club champion Best fi rst-year player Best clubman Leading goal kicker 1987 Steve Malaxos Chris Mainwaring Ross Glendinning 38 1988 John Worsfold Guy McKenna Ross Glendinning 73 1989 Guy McKenna Peter Sumich Peter Sumich 45 1990 Chris Lewis Dean Kemp Phil Scott Peter Sumich 90 1991 Craig Turley Glen Jakovich Chris Waterman Peter Sumich 111 1992 Dean Kemp Matt Clape Peter Sumich 82 1993 Don Pyke-Jakovich Drew Banfi eld John Worsfold Peter Sumich 76 1994 Glen Jakovich Shane Bond Guy McKenna Peter Sumich 49 1995 Glen Jakovich Michael Brennan Jason Ball 43 a 1996 Drew Banfi eld Tony Evans Mitchell White 37 gs 1997 Peter Matera Josh Wooden Chris Mainwaring Peter Sumich 33 1998 Ashley McIntosh John Worsfold Fraser Gehrig 42 1999 Guy McKenna Laurie Bellotti Dean Kemp 95 2000 Glen Jakovich Darren Glass Phil Matera Phil Matera 49 d 2001 Ben Cousins Daniel Kerr Rowan Jones Troy Wilson 40 Stop right here. Rowan Jones clears the path for Chris Judd. Picture: Trevor Collens 2002 Ben Cousins Chris Judd Drew Banfi eld Phil Matera 46 s 2003 Ben Cousins Ashley Sampi Michael Braun Phil Matera 62 n “I’m mates with Juddy, and given his was fi ne but in ‘07 I never really cemented 2004 Chris Judd Mark Seaby Josh Wooden Phil Matera 61 stature in the game I’m grateful for his a spot in the team and coming off the end 2005 Ben Cousins Andrew Embley Phil Matera 38 comments.” off a successful era, there were a lot of 2006 Chris Judd Dean Cox Quinten Lynch 65 l Jones retired as a 27-year-old at the end young guys pushing up. of the 2007 season to pursue a career in “I just think my time had come. I was 2007 Darren Glass Matthew Priddis Ashley Hansen Quinten Lynch 52 e fi nancial investment and planning. really happy to play in a side which won 2008 Dean Cox Ben McKinley Jaymie Graham Ben McKinley 42 e “I retired for a combination of reasons a premiership and then go on and get life 2009 Darren Glass Beau Waters Mark LeCras 58 r but essentially because I wanted to start a membership and in hindsight it was the 2010 Mark LeCras Nic Naitanui Mark LeCras 63 new phase of my life,” he said. “My body best decision.” MKT060811_910693

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Important things you should know: This product is issued by Bank of Western Australia Ltd ABN 22 050 494 454 AFSL 236872. Any advice given is of a general nature only and is not based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. The account requires a minimum deposit of $5,000. There is a $2,000,000 maximum investment limit per customer. You should consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and whether the product is right for you. A PDS is available from your local Bankwest store, from bankwest.com.au, or by calling 13 17 18. This special rate of 6.20% p.a. fixed for 9 months is only available until 19 August 2011. Promotional Period 6/8/11 – 19/8/11. Draw Date 7/09/11. Winner will be contacted by phone and in writing within 4 days of Draw Date. Full terms and conditions available at bankwest.com.au HOST11-K2053 The Weekend West • August 6, 2011

Know the score: Seven times Peter Sumich kicked more than eight goals in a 19 match, with a career-high 13 against Footscray at the WACA Ground in 1991. 25 YEARS STRONG

WORDS: CRAIG O’DONOGHUE Nine Eagles in right place at wrong time An unlucky group of Eagles played in losing grand fi nals, either 1991 or 2005, but never got the chance to taste the sweetest of all victories the following year

ark Nicoski could “I thought it could have been my only 16 points, and no premiership medal makes be an AFL legend. chance. So far, it’s turned out that it was.” him desperately unlucky. The Eagles have He could be as famous Nicoski’s 2006 season came crashing played in two losing grand fi nals. The fi rst, as St Kilda’s Barry down around him in round 14. The left- in 1991 against Hawthorn, wasn’t as close as Breen, Sydney’s Leo footer broke his ankle against Hawthorn the Hawks won by 53 points. Barry, Carlton’s Alex at the MCG and his immediate thoughts West Coast created history the MJesaulenko or Collingwood’s Ray Gabelich. turned to September. following season and won their fi rst pre- He could be revered as a West Coast He fought hard, against the odds, to be miership, but , Scott Wat- premiership player. But he’s not. Instead, available for selection. Subiaco allowed ters and didn’t get a second he’s part of a small club comprising nine him to play in their grand fi nal despite chance. Lockyer started in defence in 1991 men who have played in losing grand fi nals Nicoski having no match fi tness, but the on , who won the Norm Smith for the Eagles and not gone on to taste the Eagles coaches weren’t prepared to take Medal, and later moved into the ruck. Mark Nicoski leads to the ultimate glory. any risks. A knee operation early in 1992 cost ball. Below: The agony of the 2005 Nicoski can remember parts of the He watched the thrilling win in the Lockyer his spot in the team and he never grand fi nal loss. Pictures: Getty Images 2005 grand fi nal like it was yesterday. MCG grandstand with a friend. played another AFL match. He started on the bench and kicked the “I remember the siren going and I looked Lockyer played in East Fremantle’s fi rst goal after receiving a handball from at him and said ‘I’ve got to go’,” Nicoski said. premiership the week before the AFL Chris Judd. “I bolted down the stairs to get to the grand fi nal and saw the Eagles create But the one part which stands out is ground. I ran on and it was a little bit history on television in . his perfect view of Barry taking the match- hollow because I didn’t play. “There’s a fair bit of disappointment that saving mark. “But I went over to my good mate I never got the chance to win a grand fi nal,” Nicoski was standing two metres away, Fletchy (), tapped him on Lockyer said. perfectly positioned front and square the shoulder and he was the fi rst person I “I’ve never watched the losing one. I’d ready for the crumbs and the chance to congratulated. have loved to have been a part of it. kick the match-winning goal with just four “He gave me a big hug and said they’d “But I was rapt for the club and seconds remaining. try to win another one for me. the players. “, who I was playing on, “That was a pretty special moment “There’s a lot of great players who fl ew,” Nicoski recalled. because he could see in my eyes that I was never got the chance to even play “I thought ‘that’s great because if it hurting.” in a grand fi nal, so I’m glad I had comes to ground I am fi rst onto it.’ I was Michael Gardiner, Ashley Sampi, Travis that opportunity.” just at the front waiting for the ball to spill Gaspar, Kasey Green and also Lockyer and Watters have gone so I could pick it up and snap it. played in the losing grand fi nal and never on to enjoy premiership success “It wasn’t meant to be. It was pretty shat- got the chance to redeem themselves the with Collingwood in vastly tering. I was pretty cut up afterwards. following season. diff erent roles. Watters is a “A football season is a marathon and you Gardiner has since played in one losing Magpies assistant coach while don’t get many opportunities to play in a and one drawn grand fi nal for St Kilda. Lockyer works in recruiting grand fi nal. Three grand fi nals, decided by a combined from Perth.

Andrew Lockyer, centre, looks on as Peter Wilson tackles in the 1991 grand fi nal. Picture: Greg Burke The Weekend West • August 6, 2011 Th

Know the score: West Coast enjoyed a record winning streak of 12 games to 25 YEARS STRONG open the 1991 season before falling to Carlton by three points at . 20 2

W The immortals G f

S 1992 1994 2006 B: Chris Waterman Ashley McIntosh Guy McKenna B: Ashley McIntosh Michael Brennan B: Beau Waters Darren Glass Daniel Chick HB: Dwayne Lamb Glen Jakovich John Worsfold (c) HB: Guy McKenna Glen Jakovich John Worsfold (c) HB: Adam Hunter C: Peter Matera Craig Turley Chris Mainwaring C: Chris Mainwaring Don Pyke Peter Matera C: Chad Fletcher Chris Judd (c) Michael Braun L HF: Michael Brennan Peter Wilson HF: Brett Heady Jason Ball Peter Wilson HF: Rowan Jones Ashley Hansen Ben Cousins F: Tony Evans Peter Sumich Brett Heady F: Chris Lewis Peter Sumich Shane Bond F: Andrew Embley Quinten Lynch David Wirrpanda bu Ruck: Paul Harding Dean Kemp Don Pyke Ruck: David Hynes Dean Kemp Tony Evans Ruck: Dean Cox Tyson Stenglein Daniel Kerr Ad Int: Chris Lewis Mitchell White Int: Chris Waterman Drew Banfi eld Int: Mark Seaby Sam Butler he Coach: Mick Malthouse Drew Banfi eld Coach: Mick Malthouse Coach: John Worsfold in Co WEST COAST 16.17 (113) def GEELONG 12.13 (85) WEST COAST 20.23 (143) def GELONG 8.15 (63) WEST COAST 12.13 (85) def SYDNEY 12.12 (84) bo Fan messages

WELL DONE! Keep going up. Neil and Rene Henderson.

GO EAGLES! 1987- Big year for WA Ray Glennon, head of Eagles It was the first season the fan club Ireland - once a WE’RE THE EAGLES West Coast Eagles played in Swan now an Eagle for life! 25 years flying high the VFL and the year I was It’s been a long time coming! Our fans know we always try, born. As a result I am blue we make our opposition cry. and gold through and Our history is very proud, the through - my very extensive fans always cheer very loud. jumper collection and tattoo attest to that! I was there to watch them hold up the cup in 2006 and I will stick with my boys no matter what! Congratulations West Coast on 25 fantastic years, I look forward to the next 25! Peta - Nollamara. 25 Solid Years!! Congratulates Congratulations on this West Coast Eagles awesome milestone. Player 25 years of pure Blue and greats & Premierships have Gold. been produced. There’s only We have really enjoyed the one team in the West, Blue ride. and Gold is all we bleed!! Go The Mighty Eagles !!!! Lisa Deighton, Ellenbrook. Hedley and Sue Harmer The West Coast Eagles Congratulations Been a fan for 25 years THE MIGHTY WEST COAST WEST COAST EAGLES through the successful years EAGLES Congratulations you have and not so good years, but - members of the South made us proud over the 25 take great pride on being a Perth Whitehouse family years. Keep it up. On their WCE fan. Good luck with the since 1987. 25 years of From Shirley, Megan and finals in 2011. Margaret McK drama and delight. Naomi Boddington, Stratton. 25th Anniversary PROUDLY BLUE AND GOLD

852363πRSSH060811 011 The Weekend West • August 6, 2011

Know the score: Dean Kemp and Ben Cousins shared the captaincy in 2001 0 21 while Peter Matera, Glen Jakovich and David Wirrpanda were vice-captains. 25 YEARS STRONG

WORDS: RAY WILSON

recalled. “I remember Cuzzy putting a few to kick a few goals when it mattered,” said through my sternum and Brauny and Roo Cummings who booted four goals. (Matera) just kept putting it lace out in the He was angry after being de-listed at Great Scott fi res spot for me.” the end of the 2001 season but it was now Two weeks later, Cummings was “absolutely water under the bridge” and he best afi eld when West Coast annihilated harboured no grudges. for two big hauls Fremantle by 117 points, but he was quick “I played my best football at West Coast to put on record his eff ort in the match and I will always hold good memories following the clash against Adelaide. about my involvement there,” he said. “Don’t forget I backed up that 14-goal Cummings remained in Melbourne haul beautifully with one goal at Skilled after his stint with Collingwood and Stadium the next week,” he joked. has various media roles but his primary In a remarkable coincidence, while employment is as business development Cummings polled top Brownlow Medal manager in Victoria and WA for structural votes against the Crows and Dockers, engineering company Robert Bird Group. David Wirrpanda received two votes in And while he’s been in Melbourne for each match and Cousins was awarded one more than a decade, Cummings remains a Scott Cummings, centre, celebrates with teammates. Picture: Rod Taylor vote in both games. committed West Australian and is still on While Cummings, who won the the board of the Swan Districts Football Club. iterally and fi guratively, Scott Scott Stevens, Ken McGregor, in 1999 with 88 goals (95 “I’m a staunch West Aussie and I fl y the Cummings enjoyed a large profi le and failed to rein in the rampant including fi nals), cherishes the memories fl ag pretty heavily over here, much to my at West Coast during his 46 games Eagle. of both games, his personal favourite is detriment at times,” he said. L from 1999 to 2001. His haul remains the goal-kicking the fi rst qualifying fi nal against Footscray The wise-cracking full-forward was all record for the club but Cummings at the MCG on September 3 that year. business though in two games — against acknowledged that he was on the receiv- “It’s my favourite game of all time CUMMINGS’ RECORD a Year Club Games Goals Adelaide and Fremantle — in 2000 when ing end of a brilliant production line fed because I was playing my 100th, it was he kicked a combined 24 goals. by the likes of Ben Cousins, Michael Braun my fi rst fi nal, it was at the Gee and it was 1994-96 Essendon 40 83 Against Adelaide at the WACA Ground and Peter Matera while Michael Gardiner played in real tough conditions,” Cum- 1997-98 Port Adelaide 37 102 in round 4, Cummings, who came to West was a dominant force in the ruck. mings said. 1999-2001 West Coast 46 158 Coast via Essendon and Port Adelaide, “I had six at half-time and got another “It went right down to the wire (West 2002 Collingwood 5 6 booted 14.1 on a night Crows defenders fi ve in the third quarter,” Cummings Coast won by fi ve points) and I managed

Helping the West Coast Eagles soar in their 25th year and beyond

We’d like to thank the West Coast Eagles for helping make us West Australians proud over the last 25 years. And while we’ve only begun our partnership, we’re looking forward to kicking plenty of goals with them, and you, in the future.

To find out what else we’re doing across our home state, visit WA4EVER.com

11 Bank of Western Australia Ltd ABN 22 050 494 454 AFSL 236872. HOST11-K2054 The Weekend West • August 6, 2011

Know the score: Richard Colless, West Coast’s fi rst chairman in 1987, 25 YEARS STRONG has held the same position at the since 1994. 22 Every player who has ever played Scott Bennett 1 Trent Nichols 4 Jamie McNamara 19 Jaymie Graham 37 Andrew Donnelly 68 Chad Morrison 148 Zach Beeck 1 Michael Dunstan 5 Ashley Smith *20 Troy Wilson 37 *69 Adam Selwood *149 FOR THE RECORD 1 Peter Melesso 6 Ian Downsborough 20 Stevan Jackson 38 Geoff Miles 71 Peter Sumich 150 Games played: 580 1 Koby Stevens *7 Andrew Macnish 20 Andrew McDougall 38 David Hynes 73 Adam Hunter 151 Won: 316 1 7 Michael O’Connell 20 39 Phillip Read 74 Dwayne Lamb 151 Lost: 259 Paul Johnson 1 Todd Holmes 7 Brad Sheppard *20 Ross Glendinning 40 Sam Butler *75 Mitchell White 151 Drawn: 5 Sean King 1 7 Brett Spinks 21 Mitch Brown *41 Ashley Hansen 78 Brett Heady 156 Winning percentage: 54.5 Paul Mifk a 1 Callum Wilson *7 *22 Paul Harding 43 Andrew Lockyer 78 Rowan Jones 158 * before round 19, 2011 Glenn O’Loughlin 1 Andrew Gaff *8 Jeremy Humm 22 Dean Irving 43 Ashley Sampi 78 Chris Waterman 177 Finals Corey Young 1 Tony Begovich 9 Todd Breman 23 Andy Lovell 43 Andrew Williams 84 Quinten Lynch *179 Played: 38 *1 *9 23 Troy Ugle 43 Beau Waters *86 Michael Brennan 179 Won: 17 2 9 23 45 Shannon Hurn *89 Chad Fletcher 179 Lost: 20 Peter Davidson 2 Brendan Krummel 9 Beau Wilkes 23 Scott Cummings 46 Mark LeCras *91 Phil Matera 179 Drawn: 1 Richard Geary 2 9 Laurie Bellotti 24 46 Josh Wooden 96 Daniel Kerr *181 Derek Hall 2 Ashley Blurton 10 Wally Matera 24 Ben McKinley 46 Matthew Priddis *99 David Hart 184 Brownlow medallists Jordan Jones *2 Joe Cormack 10 26 46 Paul Symmons 99 Chris Mainwaring 201 2004 Chris Judd 30 votes 2 10 Mark Merenda 26 Nic Naitanui *47 Karl Langdon 100 John Worsfold 209 2005 Ben Cousins 20 Daniel McConnell 2 10 Matthew Spangher 26 47 Brett Jones *102 Darren Glass *212 Most games as coach Michael O’Brien 2 Lewis Stevenson *10 David O’Connell 27 Chris Masten *47 Mark Seaby 102 Chris Lewis 215 243 Mick Malthouse 2 *11 *27 Eric Mackenzie *49 Tyson Stenglein 102 Dean Cox *218 226 John Worsfold David Antonowicz 3 *12 Travis Gaspar 28 Will Schofi eld *50 Mark Nicoski *103 Andrew Embley *222 45 Matt Connell 3 Mitch Morton 12 Richard Taylor 28 Michael Collica 50 Jason Ball 103 David Wirrpanda 227 44 3 Tony Godden 13 Matt Clape 29 Dean Laidley 52 Daniel Chick 103 Michael Braun 228 22 Brendon Retzlaff 3 13 Murray Wrensted 29 Callum Chambers 54 *106 Ben Cousins 238 * before round 19, 2011 Shane Sikora 3 13 John Gastev 30 Kasey Green 54 Tony Evans 108 Ashley McIntosh 242 Brent Tuckey 3 13 Alex Ishchenko 30 Paul Peos 55 Daniel Metropolis 108 Dean Kemp 243 Most goals Glen Bartlett 4 Ryan Davis 14 Damien Adkins 32 Dean Turner 56 Brent Staker 110 Peter Matera 253 514 Peter Sumich Darren Bennett 4 Jaxon Crabb 15 Brendon Fewster 33 Murray Rance 57 Fraser Gehrig 115 Drew Banfi eld 265 389 Clinton Browning 4 *15 Nick Stone 33 John Annear 58 Craig Turley 115 Guy McKenna 267 259 Chris Lewis Aaron Edwards 4 Craig McGrath 15 Shane Bond 34 Scott Selwood *59 Peter Wilson 117 Glen Jakovich 276 237 Brett Heady Brad Gwilliam 4 *16 Patrick McGinnity *35 Josh Kennedy *61 Michael Gardiner 129 236 Quinten Lynch Peter Matera Damian Hampson 4 Kane Munro 18 Steven Armstrong 36 Jarrad Schofi eld 63 Ryan Turnbull 129 * For current players, 217 Ben Cousins Peter Higgins 4 18 Laurie Keene 36 Steve Malaxos 66 Don Pyke 132 games played before 205 * before round 19, 2011 Neil Marshall 4 18 Mark Zanotti 36 Phil Scott 66 Chris Judd 134 round 19, 2011

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