VAFA Annual Report 2012

for the love of the game

ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Front cover photo: Cam Howat (Old Carey) was the 2012 Woodrow Medalist and captained the Senior Big V side in their win against the EFL in March.

Victorian Amateur Football Association

121st ANNUAL REPORT SEASON 2012 Presented to the Members at the Annual General Meeting Melbourne Racing Club 3 December 2012

1

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Mission statement

To provide all stakeholders of the VAFA with an affordable, enjoyable and competitive game of Australian Rules football in a safe environment, whilst making a meaningful contribution to the community and the development of the game.

The Victorian Amateur Football Association was established in 1892 and incorporated under the Companies Act 1961 on the 26th day of February 1970.

Contents

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

VAFA 2012

3

President’s Report

4

CEO’s Report

6

Umpire Operations

10

Premier

12

Premier B

18

Premier C

22

Division One

26

Division Two

30

Division Three

34

Division Four

38

Under 19

42

Under 18

46

Club XVIII

47

Representative Football

50

The Big V Club

55

Winning Edge Club Championship

56

Rising Star 2012

56

2

VAFA

2012

Patrons

Independent Tribunal

Messr. J.F.X. Dillion, M.G. Russel and the Hon. John S. Winneke, AC QC RFD

Mr. D.H. Scott

Chairmen: Messrs. P.C. Clothier, P. Couzens, J.G. Denahy, D.J. Hughes, J.K. Pilkington, D. Reynolds, P.G. Rhoden, P.J. Rodda.

Members: Messrs. J.H. Boorn, M.B. Brook, G.J. Condron, D.R. Dodds, S. Grey, T. Isaacs, R.E. Lippold, A. Marshall, P. Mason, R McLean, J.F. Nelson, M.D. O’Brien, G.S. Ridd, G. Rosewarne, F. Stafford, A.H. Walstab, C.F. Wills, J.C. Wilson.

Board

Investigation Panel

President Mr. B. Conti

Vice-President Mr. T.J. Merrett (resigned June 2012)

Treasurer

Messrs. B. Conti, A.M. Amad, L.E. Beveridge, Mrs. D.M. Connors-Calhaem, Messrs.

M.T. Hazell, B.R. McTaggart, T.J. Merrett, T.J. Nelson, D.H. Scott, M.W. Sholly, N.J. Toohey, G.A. Voyage.

Chairmen: Messrs. R.L. Evans, B.R. McTaggart, G.A. Voyage Members: Messrs. A.M. Amad, D.R. Booth, P.J. Grima, M.T. Hazell, M. Kelliher, T.J. Nelson, D.H. Scott, N.J. Toohey.

Chief Executive Officer

Registration Secretary

Mr. M.W. Sholly

Mr. C.C. Bastow

General Manager Football Operations

Saturday Score Recorder Mrs. N.M. McTaggart

Mr. T.P. Noonan

Elsternwick Park Duty Officers Mr. J. Robinson and Mr. B.J. Ivey

General Manager Administration

Publications Editor

Mrs. S.J. Anderson

Mr. M.J. Fitzgerald (to 22 June) Mr. A.T. Leonard (from 23 June)

General Manager Umpire Operations

Life Members

Mr. B.L. Goodman

Messrs. V.J. Deane*, L.A. Adamson*, H.J. Stewart*, J.S. McCann*, E.F. Atkins*, F.H. Coldrey*, O.J. Meehan*, P.A. Matthews*, G.T. Moore*, L.S. Zachariah*, J. Fullerton*, Mrs. N. Fullerton, Messrs. A.G. Perrin*, I.A. Brown*, G.W. McTaggart*, R.A. Sinclair*, M.G. Russell, T.A. Johnson*, N.C. Rundle*, J.F.X. Dillon, A.J. Keam, J.A, Miles, J.A. Fisher, J.F. Hawkins, P.J. Harris*, Dr B.W. Costello, Messrs.

D.H. Scott, A.H. Stephens*, C.C. Bastow, T.M. Lyon, I.H. Munro, A.J. O’Callaghan, D.R. Burnes, N.W. Nugent, A.L. LangfordJones, Mrs. N.M McTaggart, Messrs.

K.W. Sharkie, J.F. Nelson, P.O’Donohue*, D.R. Booth, D.J. Cook, J.A. Wilson*, R.L. Evans, Mrs. M.L. Bastow, Messrs.

J.C. Wilson, P.W. Hutchinson, B.R. McTaggart, P.B. Stevens, J.W. Bell, B.J. Ivey, P.G. Rhoden, N.M. Bourke, D.J. Hughes and Dr. G. Janko.

General Manager Commercial Operations Mr. B.C. O’Hara

General Manager Media & Communications Mr. M.J. Fitzgerald (to 22 June) Mr. A.T. Leonard (from 23 June)

Administration Ms. O.P. Crowe Mr. B. Hodges

VAFA Lawyers Monahan & Rowell

VAFAUA President Mr. L.R. Holmes

Club XVIII Umpire Co-ordinator Mr. D. Windlow

Tribunal and Investigations Co-ordinators

*deceased

Mrs. S.J. Anderson and Mr. C.C. Bastow

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VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

President’s

report

Another successful season concludes our 111th year. I often refer to the longevity of this association and how it continues to play a meaningful and important role in the lives of so many people. Let me commence my editorial by thanking the thousands of volunteers who contribute so selflessly to the running of their clubs and to the Association in general. These volunteers are the lifeblood of our competition and all should be thanked and congratulated for the manner in which they carry out their tasks.

Toohey’s leadership will always occupy the attention of the Board as we seek to ensure that the Amateur ethos is maintained, that our rules and policies are relevant and adhered to, so that a safe and respectful environment can continue to be enjoyed by all of our stakeholders. With such a large competition and turnover of officials this is an ongoing challenge and the introduction of an Integrity Officer and an Ambassador program has been designed to complement

To the clubs that tasted premiership success well done and I am sure you will have pleasant memories for years to come.

Collegians winning back-to-back in our Premier Section is an outstanding effort.

The performances of several district clubs was particularly gratifying with the highlights including Beaumaris (Premier B) reaching Premier Section for the first time in its history, Parkdale Vultures (Premier C) winning backto-back to go to Premier B along with their Grand Final opponents Fitzroy. Both clubs will play in Premier B for the first time.

Other district clubs enjoying premiership success included Bulleen Templestowe (Div 2) and South Mornington (Div 4). Well done to our other senior premiership winning clubs in North Old Boys/St Pats (Div 1) and Yarra Valley (Div 3). To the clubs that have been relegated I hope that you all take the opportunity to take stock and plan diligently so that you may enjoy a successful year in 2013.

the Board and staff’s efforts in this regard.

Earlier in the year the Board implemented its strategic plan for the next 3 years and we have made good progress with its implementation. The status of our 4 strategic pillars, 11 objectives and 28 initiatives will be tabled separately however I thought I would share with you some important challenges

however it is felt that in general some of the

that we are facing.

These volunteers are the lifeblood of our competition and all should be thanked and congratulated for the manner in which they carry out their tasks.

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

The integrity of the competition under Justin

Our Football Growth and Development agenda driven by George Voyage is largely about

maximising

participation

and

developing the frameworks to ensure the highest possible standard of football is attained. From a participation perspective we felt there was a need to review the state of junior football within the VAFA and so we commissioned Phil De Young (a VAFA stalwart) to write a report. I am pleased that we have chosen to implement some of Phil’s recommendations for 2013 as we seek to further assist all clubs with their junior teams. We are also very aware of the pressure being applied to our district clubs from

surrounding

competitions

looking

to poach players and a summit has been planned with all district clubs to review how we can assist them counter act the pressures they face from local competing district clubs.

I am mindful that the poaching of Amateur players is not restricted to just district clubs pressures facing the district clubs are more pertinent and it is our intention to identify ways in which we can assist them further.

The departure of Rupertswood is a reminder as to how vulnerable our district clubs can be and we don’t want this trend to continue. On the flip side to this it appears we will have at least two new senior clubs within our ranks in 2013 and so at this early stage it appears the competition will again be bigger in 2013.

The Commercial agenda led by our Vice President Michael Hazell has made great inroads and we look forward to seeing some exciting initiatives being delivered over the next two to three years. We feel there is a great opportunity for the VAFA on behalf of its member clubs to maximize the commercial value that is inherent within our association.

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The apparel tender awarded to KooGa and

Luke Beveridge and Tim Merrett who

to the staff this year in Blair O’Hara and

the opportunities and cost savings this will

resigned earlier this year. David has served

Andrew Leonard and look forward to their

deliver is the first of many benefits that we

on the Board for the past 29 years and Bruce

involvement in years to come.

expect to deliver to our member clubs.

for the past 16 years. Both have served as

And finally the Facilities sub-committee which I look after, continues to focus on re-developing our home ground, as well as work more closely with councils to ensure the facilities our clubs have are the very best they possibly can be. We are currently in a planning phase with the City of Bayside regarding the re-development of Elsternwick Park and hope to be clearer on the options available to us over the next few months.

Through the season we also embarked on a program of working more closely with all 24 municipalities where our clubs play. We

President and have provided outstanding service to the VAFA. On a personal level they have given me a great deal of support during my time as President and I sincerely thank both of them. Tim Merrett served on the Board for seven years and was our Vice President for two and a half years and was forced to resign earlier this year due to work related pressures and also served very well during his time. Luke has just completed his first year as an Assistant Coach at AFL club

for their ongoing and wonderful financial support, as always their contribution allows the VAFA to keep costs down to the lowest possible level.

And finally I wish all members of the VAFA community the very best over the coming months and trust that you have an enjoyable time with your friends and family and I look forward to your continued involvement in our great Association in 2013.

Hawthorn and after 2 years on the Board

Bruno Conti

has no option but to step down from his

President

will continue to develop our relationships

position. I wish all of these gentlemen the

with these municipalities to ensure our

very best and thank them sincerely for their

clubs have the best opportunity available to

contribution to the VAFA.

improve their facilities.

I would like to thank all of the sponsors

To Michael Sholly and all of the staff, thank

As always there is plenty of work before us

you for your unwavering support throughout

and I am forever grateful for the wonderful

the year. Michael’s contribution to the

support provided by our Board and staff. The

VAFA has been outstanding to date and we

Board will undergo some changes due to the

are privileged to have him as our CEO. We

retirements of David Scott, Bruce McTaggart,

are delighted with the additions we made

VAFA

board

B. Conti President

L.E. Beveridge

T.J. Merrett Vice-President

(elected July 2012)

D.H. Scott Treasurer

M.W. Sholly CEO

A.M. Amad

(resigned June 2012)

M.T. Hazell Vice-President

D.M Connors-Calhaem

B.R. McTaggart

T.J. Nelson

N.J. Toohey

G.A. Voyage

5

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Chief Executive Officer’s report

The Victorian Amateur Football Association

took over the Premier C – Division 4 team

has always been proud of the conduct

that played the EFL Divisions 3 and 4 and

and integrity of clubs in our Association

former St Bedes/Mentone Tigers coach

but the debate as to whether we were the

Owen Lalor led the U19 team in their clash

strongest community football competition

with the VCFL.

has been a recurring argument amongst friends and foes who follow local football.

By any measures this has been laid to rest thanks to the incredible achievements of our representative side both this and previous years.

Post season we again toured New Zealand with our Under 18 team and were successful in both matches. As a reward for winning the 2011 Junior Coach of the Year, Tom Maule from Old Xaverians was appointed coach and did a splendid job bringing the team

In March our senior team played against the

together and building great camaraderie in

Eastern Football League to help celebrate

a short time. Thank you to Owen Lalor who

their 50th anniversary.

mentored Tom on this trip.

Pre-season is not

traditionally the strongest time for the Amateurs, however, the senior win truly entrenched our competition as the number one community football competition. This is on the back of wins against the VCFL the previous year and our U23s winning the AAFC carnival. In July, our reputation was further enhanced and our ranking assured when we ran out convincing winners against AFL Sydney in Blacktown.

Whilst

a

very

rewarding

of the Association. Each year throws up so many great stories and with such a large competition it is difficult to highlight them all but below are just a few of this season’s highlights: • Collegians winning back to back Premier Section premierships • Beaumaris

winning

promotion

to

job of assembling this team and getting

Premier Section, the first solely district

them to perform at such high standards with

club to do so since Ormond played in

such limited preparation at different times

1996

of the year. The challenge awaits us next year when we defend the trophy against the

• Parkdale Vultures winning back to back flags and progressing from Division 1

VCFL, which is a team that combines the top

through to Premier B for the first time in

players from eight different leagues around

their history

the state.

Nigel Credlin took over the role as the

• Prahran Assumption gaining successive promotions going from Division 3 to

Director of Representative Football and was

Division 1

able to have immediate impact by assembling high quality individuals to lead our various

• South Mornington for winning their first

teams. Ben Robertson was elevated from the

senior premiership and being promoted

U19s and coached the successful U23 team

to Division 3

against Western Australia. Dean Matthews

The challenge awaits us next year when we defend the trophy against the VCFL, which is a team that combines the top players from eight different leagues around the state.

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

had

competitions that are the heart and soul

Congratulations to Simon Lethlean and his coaching staff who did such an outstanding

we

representative program, it is the 25 separate

• Chadstone winning their first match in four years • Old Xaverians winning the Winning Edge Club Championship Another aspect that stands our competition apart

from

others

is

the

outstanding

umpiring group we have. Brian Goodman and the coaching team led by Tony Hales do a magnificent job to ensure our umpires officiate the game in a manner that both players and spectators can respect and enjoy. It is a pleasure to see young and fit

6

people be given such great support and confidence which leads them to choose to umpire in the VAFA. This has a lot to do with the effort our clubs make to ensure they are respected and welcomed into each club’s home.

This positive environment has seen so many talented umpires come into the competition in recent years.

These talents are not

only encouraged but are rewarded. In the Premier Section Grand Final two of the field umpires were aged 18 and 22, the boundary had two 18 year olds and in the goal mouth at one end we had Rebecca Brown, our first ever female umpire to officiate in a Premier

Another aspect that stands our competition apart from others is the outstanding umpiring group we have.

Other points of interest included an $80,000 increase in sponsorship, finals revenue increased by 14% and a decrease in the cost of representative football by $47,000 due mainly to an AAFC U23 carnival held in

Grand Final.

Adelaide in 2011.

Because of this our umpiring numbers

We continue to maintain strong cash

are increasing and after concentrating on increasing our numbers on the boundary in season 2013 we will be turning our attention to the goals. We are seeking an additional 15–20 umpires so that all senior matches can have independent goal umpires.

reserves that will assist the Association to provide high quality service to the members without the added burden of increased affiliation fees.

The season was launched in spectacular fashion at the MCC Dining Room. The dinner

The largest segment of the umpiring division that goes unheralded are those champion men who give up their Saturday morning to umpire in a Premier reserves match not attached to their club so that we can have independence. After the morning slog, most of them will get to their club around

was highlighted by a magnificent speech

by AFL premiership coach, Chris Scott. His engaging manner delighted the 360 strong attendees as he spoke of the Geelong culture and the measures that he believed were important for success. SEN commentator Mark Fine delivered the toast to the VAFA.

quarter time to help out in other areas. The

Dr George Janko received Life Membership

Association is indebted to you.

of the Association after becoming the VAFA’s

The VAFA does not apologise for the amount of investment made to the umpiring department. Of the $1,189,620 received in affiliation fees, $770,684 or 64.8% was spent on umpiring. We will endeavour to increase

honorary doctor to our representative teams in 1994. George has travelled extensively with the teams giving of himself and his time generously to the Association and is a most deserving recipient.

this percentage as we continually strive to

In July, over two hundred past champions

build on not only our numbers but also their

of representative football attended the

development to ensure we have the highest

sixth annual Big V Club lunch at the RACV

possible standard of umpiring.

Club. Three more players were elevated to

In his final report as the VAFA treasurer, David Scott was delighted to announce a surplus of $101,658. This was substantially aided by $91,877 refund on payroll tax which the VAFA had paid over the past five years.

This refund is solely due to David’s diligence

champion status – John Jones (Marcellin), Shane McGuire (North Old Boys) and Doug Arnold

(Hampton

Rovers).

Our

thanks

are extended to Anthony Amad and his committee for their organisation and Nick Bourke as the Master of Ceremonies.

in following up demands from the State

The VAFA Presentation Night Dinner was

Revenue Office which delivered a handsome

again held at Leonda on the Monday

result. This was offset when $38,000 for the

evening prior to the Premier Grand Finals.

renovations to the umpire and player change

The winners were announced during a vote

rooms at Elsternwick Park was written off.

count on 96.5 Inner FM a few weeks prior.

7

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Chief Executive Officer’s report (continued)

Inner FM confirmed all previous listening

the 10 pages of papers the umpires were

records were broken during the broadcasts

required to fill in after each match and send

of all senior sections over the two nights.

to the VAFA.

Knowledge of the winners does not detract from the Presentation Night Dinner with Andrew Leonard and Michael Crooks hosting a fantastic evening.

We have continued to be pioneers on the technological front with the introduction of live scores. Our service was logged into by 3000 unique users and over 15000 visits each weekend of the season. No doubt this will grow further next season. We were the

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

This instantaneous system

has not only enhanced the recording of our information but improved the tribunal process.

As a result of the VAFA’s work in this area, other leagues have reacted and now SportingPulse, the administrator of Footyweb, has assured us that a new free system will be available to all leagues in 2013. A special word of thanks must go to

first competition to introduce a paperless

Luke Holmes who worked tirelessly with

match day administration process. Whilst

Redtxt to ensure the delivery of the program

it had its teething problems it eliminated

prior to the 2012 season.

8

At the Members Meeting in 2011 the clubs endorsed the VAFA employing a Commercial Manager and in June, Blair O’Hara was appointed. Blair has made a great start to his work developing business for not only the VAFA but all our clubs too. He has engineered a terrific partnership with KooGa which should result in great benefits for our clubs. We are working on a number of initiatives that focus on the Association’s financial sustainability that will serve to benefit all our clubs.

We are working on a number of initiatives that focus on the Association’s financial sustainability that will serve to benefit all our clubs.

Many thanks to Sportscover who continue as the Association’s major sponsor. Chris Nash, David Lamb and Martin Kelly continually strive to give our clubs the best possible level of insurance.

Sue Anderson continues to provide sage advice to all clubs on matters financial and tribunal. Her appetite to ensure all clubs are serviced correctly is a credit to her professional attitude. Olivia Crowe and Ben Hodges both provide excellent support to their respective managers.

We thank our many sponsors who continue to support the Association including Bendigo Bank East Malvern, 2XU, Club Warehouse, Beiersdorf, Primary Edge, Winning Edge Presentations, Coates Hire, Acacia, Australian Sports Apparel, Boags, Sherrin, Cyan Press, Redtxt, Dartfish, Scott Partners Consulting, Weatherson catering, and Southern Sports Physiotherapy.

This season we partnered with SEN 1116 who provided advertisements on their popular morning breakfast and drive programs. We are confident of building on this relationship in 2013 as we endeavour to raise our public profile.

Michael Fitzgerald departed after three years and was replaced by Andrew Leonard. The transition was seamless and Andrew did a wonderful job building on our Facebook page, increasing our Twitter numbers, producing the content of the Amateur Footballer, increasing our website content and introducing the popular VAFA TV. We are delighted that Andrew has recently accepted a full time position and anticipate the continued growth of all our media platforms and communications in 2013.

The full time staff were supported by Cliff Bastow (registration secretary and tribunal co-ordinator on Tuesday night), Shane Way (tribunal assistant), and Liz Wilson. On match day we had John Robinson and Bruce Ivey sharing the ground manager’s position with Nancy McTaggart (scorer), Phil Hope (scoreboard) and Graeme Wilson and all his staff on the gates.

My thanks to President Bruno Conti who also chairs the Facilities Sub-Committee, along with fellow sub-committee chairmen, Justin Toohey (Competition Integrity), Michael Hazell (Commercial) and George Voyage (Football, Growth and Development) and all Board members for the leadership and support they have provided to the staff.

Finally thanks to all our clubs and their members who continue to fly the amateur flag ensuring our principles never waiver and thrive in the face of stiff opposition.

Michael Sholly Chief Executive Officer

Tim Noonan completed his first year and did an outstanding job administering over 2000 home and away matches and more than 100 finals games. Add to this the representative program and it is a job handled by a person with patience and a meticulous attention to detail.

9

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Umpire operations

Umpiring over the past decade has shown

them without too much fuss. The improving

steady improvement across the board with

standard of VAFA football has meant umpires

improved decision making and consistency

need to be better equipped in both fitness

our main strengths and 2012 has been one

and skills to keep up with the pace of the

of our finest years yet. A revamped coaching

game.

group led by senior umpires coach Tony Hales was assembled and the results have been extremely pleasing given the landscape and environment in which we operate.

The introduction of three field umpires in Premier matches in 2009 was the correct decision given the improvement in skill levels

by VAFA players. The speed of ball movement

The 2012 season commenced on Sunday

dictated this requirement and now free kicks

1st April with 2 pre-season Representative

are correctly awarded at both ends of the

matches against the EFL and the performances

ground.

of the VAFA umpires appointed was first class.

VAFA v EFL Senior umpires were: - Field Umpires: Andrew Heffernan and Matthew Pryor - Boundary Umpires: Gavin Boyd and Ryan O’Shea - Goal Umpire: Clayton Evans

VAFA v EFL C-D4 umpires were:

On 15th July our U19 representative team took on a skilful VCFL U19 group at Elsternwick Park. Ben LaVale was appointed to officiate the match in his first year of umpiring with the VAFA. Sean Scully Jnr also umpired his first representative match after nine years with the VAFA. VAFA U19 v VCFL U19 - Field Umpires: Ben LaVale and Sean Scully Jnr

- Field Umpires: Josh James and Ben Nicholson

- Boundary Umpires: Luke Bevan and Mitchell Bevan

- Boundary Umpires: Robert Hamilton and Top: Rebecca Brown Bottom: Andrew Heffernan

Jarryd Morton - Goal Umpire: Matthew Dervan

The

umpiring

performances

in

all

The wet season hit hard in June making

Representatives matches by our umpires

playing and umpiring a difficult task so when

were exceptional and the VAFA is extremely

the next two representative matches were

proud of the way every umpire represented

played by our U23 representatives against

themselves and the VAFAUA.

Western Australia and our senior side against AFL Sydney the adjustments to the style of game were significant. In both matches our representative umpires were magnificent and highlighted the standard of umpiring across the VAFA competition.

VAFA v WAAFL U23 umpires were: - Field Umpires: Merv Monty and Matthew Pryor - Boundary Umpires: Daniel Adams,Mitchell Jones and Ryan O’Shea - Goal Umpires: Rebecca Brown and Matthew Dervan

VAFA v AFL Sydney umpire was: – Field Umpire: Daniel Silfo

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

- Goal Umpire: Patrick Dwyer

Over the past three years the AFL has partnered with the VAFA by introducing former AFL players to a “Player to Umpire” program. This resulted in Jordan Bannister - who umpired with the VAFA in 2010 becoming a regular field umpire in AFL matches in 2012. This program continued with a former VFL player Brent Wallace taking up the whistle and umpiring in the second half of the season with the VAFA. Brent will trial for the VFL in 2013 which proves that this program is working and that the VAFA will play a significant role in developing these former players in years to come.

It is extremely pleasing to have so many “young-guns” that are full of enthusiasm as they progress from junior sections into

The VAFA has experienced many rule and

senior ranks. Umpires that have progressed

law changes in recent times and our umpires

well are: Ben Nicholson, Ben Lavale, Christian

have needed to learn quickly to implement

Schaefer, Mark Rogers, and Jack Maclean with

10

many more that will stand us in good stead for the future. This is what we need if we are to have a vibrant professional group of senior umpires and I am looking forward to the next wave of young talent coming through in 2013.

Prestigious awards for 2012 were presented at the VAFAUA pre-finals dinner at the MCC

We need to recruit; • Enough goal umpires for all senior matches; • More official club umpires for Premier to Premier C Reserves and Thirds sections; • More field umpires to provide two

Dining Room in August.

umpires in every game and three field

Golden Whistle: Matthew Dervan

sections on a regular basis.

umpires in Premier and Premier B

Most Improved Goal Umpire: Ray Stokes Most Improved Field Umpire:

Some major challenges are; • Dealing with umpires that have

Sean Scully Jnr

increased family and work commitments;

Most Improved Boundary Umpire: Mitchell Jones

• Educating clubs that constant poor

Young Achiever award: Nathan Morton

criticism does not improve umpire

Best First Year Umpire: Ben LaVale &

in the right manner will assist in

Leigh Saunders

standards but communication the improvement of our umpiring standards;

Andy Carrick Award: Paul Tuppen Bob Dunston Award: Wayne Hinton

• Rising costs of recruiting;

Commitment to the VAFAUA:

• Travel issues;

John Bradford

By continuing to work closely with the Yarra

Congratulations to Matthew Pryor on winning

Junior Football League and the South Metro

the Umpire of the Year award. Matthew had an impressive season culminating in him being appointed to the Premier Grand Final.

One of our young stars of the future, Ben Nicholson, won the Most Promising Umpire award and will no doubt be looking to follow in the steps of Andrew Heffernan and Matthew Pryor who will be trialling for the VFL in 2013.

Veteran

umpire

Russell

Davidson

who

umpired this years Premier B Section Grand Final also capped off another excellent season by being appointed to umpire the two

Junior Football League we will give ourselves every chance of recruiting some talented umpires for the future.

Umpires appointed to finals matches should be very proud of their efforts. The finals series this season was umpired extremely well, with the VAFA receiving many positive comments from clubs about the standard of officiating and this was most gratifying for the umpiring fraternity.

Congratulations to Rebecca Brown, who was our first female to goal umpire the Premier

U18 matches in New Zealand.

Grand Final.

The VAFA is indebted to our many reserve

The Premier Grand Final Umpires were:

club umpires who have done a sterling job, particularly at Premier to Premier C level.

Having independent officials at matches is important for our competition and whilst it may have tested their resolve, it has never dented their spirit or commitment.

- Field Umpires; Luke Holmes, Andrew

improved their performances due to their dedication and commitment.

Our hard working coaching staff in Tony Hales, Steve McCarthy, Mark Gibson, Brian Woodhead, Terry Gunn, Robert Sebbens (Boundary), Neil Woods (Assistant), Harry Stamos (Goal), David Windlow (Club XVIII), Wayne Hinton (Fitness), John Robinson (Admin) and Neeraj Kochhar (Physio) are to be congratulated for their professional approach and commitment.

A special thank you to outgoing VAFAUA President Luke Holmes who has led by example and along with his executive provided a great environment for our umpires. Luke has brought heightened enthusiasm, new ideas and was the instigator of the VAFA being the first football competition to go paperless by processing match-day documents by the iPhone. This was a monumental task that worked so well in its first year of operation.

To our umpire observers, we thank you for all the feedback and support to our umpiring group. This support is paramount if umpires are to develop their skills and improve and reach new performance standards.

The VAFA staff in Michael Sholly, Tim Noonan, Sue Anderson, Andrew Leonard, Blair O’Hara, Ben Hodges, Olivia Crowe, Cliff Bastow and Shane Way has continued to provide support and guidance for our umpires and I thank them all for their fantastic contribution.

The support from the VAFA Board in all matters umpiring has again been first class.

Bruno Conti (President) and George Voyage chairman of our Football sub-committee have been unwavering in their desire to provide the best environment possible for our umpires.

Finally, I wish all clubs, officials and supporters all the very best for the off season and I am looking forward to working closely with you again in 2013.

Heffernan, and Matt Pryor - Boundary Umpires: Daniel Adams, Merime Tamo, and Ryan O’Shea

Brian Goodman General Manager Umpire Operations

- Goal Umpires: Rebecca Brown and

Next year the challenges continue as we

Clayton Evans

embark on a huge recruiting campaign that

David Windlow continues to do a great job

will ensure we show continual improvement

with the Club XVIII umpires and although

across all disciplines and provide clubs with

numbers were not at the level we needed

the best available umpires.

this season, this group has developed and

11

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Premier

Collegians claimed back to back flags in the top section for the first time since 199293 seasons with a seven point win over Old Xaverians in a classic Premier Section grand final. The match was a pulsating contest and will be remembered by all who were there for the ferocity, skill and courage on display by all 44 who took the field.

Many of us thought Old Xaverians had played their Grand Final in a memorable comeback victory over De La Salle in the Preliminary Final a week prior but their five goals to two burst in the third term proved this team was made of sterner stuff.

Early season prognostications had the 2011 champs and Old Xaverians on top of most people’s selections for eventual premiers.

Whilst Collegians kept stringing the wins together, by mid season Old Xavs looked the team to beat as Andy Gowers had his side playing consistent hard football. Matt Ball was outstanding throughout the year as was Nick Wynne across half back but a late season run of games in atrocious conditions seemed to slow the momentum of Xavs. They found a gear in the Preliminary Final and carried that into the Grand Final but couldn’t quite get there.

Ultimately the combined class and possibly the pace of the Collegians runners Will Tardiff, Courtney Hylton, Josh Kamenar and Lachlan Ferguson combined with the strength and skill of Andrew Scott, Nick Ries and Barclay Dixon meant that the men in purple always had cover if one of their players was having a poor day.

De La Salle should be preparing for 2013 with an increased vigour as a grand final berth was theirs for the taking in 2012. A 26 point margin in their favour at the final change was not enough and what happened next was something that De La must use as motivation for 2013 lest it scar this talented generation wearing blue and gold. De La Salle can be

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

proud of what they managed in 2013. They blooded an incredible amount of players and managed to maintain winning form at the same time. Brett Eddy returned from his knee injury showing how important he could be and when the two Williams brothers (Sam and Jacob) were playing they were exciting to watch. De La recorded wins against all sides including a good win against eventual premier Collegians. They are the makings of an excellent side, just remove their final quarter from their 2012 CV and 2013 has much to look forward to.

Old Scotch entered 2012 with a major change to their coaching setup as they followed the lead of reigning premiers Collegians by appointing co-coaches. Dean Anderson and Stuart Powell had the Cardinals firing early as they knocked off rivals Old Xaverians and were 6-2 heading into a clash with Old Carey. It was the Carey clashes that shaped their season, they lost in round 9 to send Old Scotch on a streak which saw them win once in the next five games. Then it was a round 16 come from behind win against the Panthers that had the Old Scotch faithful believing. They entered the first semi final full of form and confidence but poor conversion and a silky De La Salle ended their season on a warm September day. Nick Jamieson claimed the club’s best and fairest.

In what turned out to be coach Trevor Rowe’s final year after a most successful period for Old Carey it was a case of so near yet so far.

Carey lost three games by under a kick - all from winning positions - but the killer was the heartbreaking four point loss to Old Scotch in round 16. The star studded Panthers were left to lick their wounds after another solid season in Premier Section that ultimately didn’t bear fruit, finishing fifth for a second straight year.

Co-Captain Cam Howat streaked the field to win the Woodrow Medal, but couldn’t stop Julian Rowe winning the club best and fairest.

Damien Yze shared the competition goal kicking award whilst all who were there will

12

The match was a pulsating contest and will be remembered by all who were there for the ferocity, skill and courage on display by all 44 who took the field.

remember his brother, former Melbourne champion Adem’s debut for the club against Old Trinity when he kicked five final quarter goals – one of them goal of the year - to help the side in their comeback win in round 8.

Runners-up from 2011, St Bedes/Mentone Tigers had a new coach in 2012 as Mick Dwyer took over the reigns. Adjustment time was needed, or perhaps the exodus of players was the reason for the slow start. At 1-5, the season wasn’t looking good. Round 13 was the turning point – a comprehensive win over Old Scotch at home and losses to their nearest rivals allowed some breathing space. It launched a run of four wins in a row to secure another year in the highest tier and finishing mark of 9-9 was passable for a side in transition. Pat Keane was unearthed from within to claim the best and fairest and the club is in a good spot to return to finals footy in 2013.

and they were not without a chance of playing finals. The second half of the season only netted two more wins but there was enough talent from their U19 team that had a taste of senior action to suggest that the coming years could be fruitful ones for the Snowdogs. This was highlighted by Andrew Grosso’s seven goal performance against Old Xavs. The club had a tough year off the field with the tragic deaths of U19 player Harry Overman and 1984 premiership captain and club champion Gary McAllister. Tom Caven won a second best and fairest for his play across half back.

Old Trinity’s season profile was cast in round 1 and continued for the next two weeks before they were able to sing the song after defeating Caulfield in round 4. Recent campaigns in the top section have been ignited by the OT’s flying starts to the season, early losses are hard to turn around in amateur football and despite bouncing back with a couple of wins Old

Trinity were constantly behind the eight ball in 2012. The heartbreaker came against Old Carey in round 8 when they led by 35 points 10 minutes into the last only to go down by 8 points. Old Trinity’s season was still alive in round 16 if they could manage to defeat an equally desperate and relegation threatened University Blues. Alas they kicked poorly and fell short by four points, returning to Premier B, Christian Butler won the best and fairest and the evergreen Andrew Ramsden shared the competition leading goal kicker award with 56 majors.

Andrew Leonard

Promoted sides invariably have an axe hovering over them as usually only one is able to survive the jump from Premier B. Unfortunately for Caulfield who spent the shortest of sojourns back in Premier as they return to Premier B without the memory of a win. The Fields became the ninth side since promotion and relegation were introduced to have a winless season in the top section. Tom O’Sullivan’s season was the highlight, earning representative honours in both the U23 where he was captain - and senior Big V sides.

He also polled in eight of his 14 games in the Woodrow Medal, capping it off by winning the club best and fairest.

St Bernards on the other hand returned to Premier and played attractive football under Chris Tankard and their season was set in motion by a thrilling four point win in round 1 over their conquerors in the Premier B Grand Final of the previous season. A brilliant win over De La Salle at home in round 9 had given St Bernards a positive win loss record

13

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Results PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

Collegians

18

16

2

0

0

0

1745

1196

145.9

64

Old Xaverians

18

14

4

0

0

0

1473

1140

129.21

56

De La Salle

18

12

6

0

0

0

1675

1245

134.54

48

Old Scotch

18

12

6

0

0

0

1641

1359

120.75

48

Old Carey

18

10

8

0

0

0

1431

1231

116.25

40

St Bedes/Mentone Tigers

18

9

9

0

0

0

1485

1638

90.66

36

St Bernards

18

7

11

0

0

0

1432

1690

84.73

28

University Blues

18

6

12

0

0

0

1168

1495

78.13

24

Old Trinity

18

4

14

0

0

0

1374

1687

81.45

16

Caulfield Grammarians

18

0

18

0

0

0

1056

1799

58.7

0

Scribe’s team of the year B

T Caven (St Bernards)

T Carey (Old Xaverians)

HB

C Howat (Old Carey)

L McQueen Miscamble (Old Carey)

G Hamilton (Old Trinity)

C

J Rowe (Old Carey)

P Summers (University Blues)

C Lee (Collegians)

HF

N Ries (Collegians)

J Watts (University Blues)

T O’Sullivan (Caulfield Grammarians)

F

S Pickett (De La Salle)

P Ambrose (Old Xaverians)

S Glennen (St Bedes / Mentone Tigers)

R

S Neaves (Old Scotch)

P Kean (St Bedes / Mentone Tigers)

N Jamieson (Old Scotch)

INT

J Baxter (De La Salle)

S Sherwan (Old Scotch), J Vickers (De La Salle), M Ball (Old Xaverians), T Zimbachs (Collegians)

1st Semi Final

2nd Semi Final

Preliminary Final

Grand Final

De La Salle 1.2 6.4 8.10 14.14 (98) Old Scotch 1.5 3.7 6.11 11.12 (78) De La Salle Goals: B. Eddy 3, N. Roberts 3, S. Pickett 2, J. Vickers 2, J. Moloney, D. Lowe, J. Williams, M. Moore Best: M. Hine, J. Moloney, T. Humphrey, L. Jarvis, D. Lowe, J. Vickers Old Scotch Goals: L. Hill 2, G. van den Broek 2, A. Houlihan 2, R. Eva, J. Davis, M. van den Broek, H. Dick, M. Passador Best: G. van den Broek, L. Hill, J. Bowden, R. Eva, H. Dick, A. Houlihan

Old Xaverians 1.1 3.4 6.5 14.6 (90) De La Salle 4.2 7.5 10.7 11.10 (76) Old Xaverians Goals: B. Goss 4, M. Handley 3, E. Prowse 2, J. Agius 2, M. Darvell, J. Williams, D. Lynch Best: B. Goss, E. Prowse, J. Agius, N. Wynne, M. Darvell, P. Ambrose De La Salle Goals: B. Eddy 6, D. Lowe, J. Williams, N. Roberts, A. Kneebone, S. Haslem Best: B. Eddy, T. Humphrey, A. Shields, D. Lowe, T. Hunt, C. Kelliher

Collegians 2.3 4.7 10.9 15.11 (101) Old Xaverians 4.4 6.6 9.8 9.9 (63) Collegians Goals: N. Sautner 5, S. Taft 3, N. Ries 3, L. Ferguson 2, J. Harvey, J. Bull Best: L. Ferguson, N. Ries, W. Tardif, J. Kamener, N. Sautner, J. Bull Old Xaverians Goals: P. Ambrose 2, M. Handley 2, O. Gidley, J. Williams, L. Tiernan, M. Ball, B. Rogerson Best: J. Agius, N. Dimattina, M. Ball, R. Colbert, B. Kennedy, B. Rogerson

Collegians 2.2, 6.2, 8.7, 10.11 (71) Old Xaverians 1.3, 3.6, 8.8, 9.10 (64) Collegians Goals: C. Blumfield 2, S. Taft 2, N. Ries 2, N. Sautner, L. Ferguson, N. Corp, A. Scott Best: W. Tardif, C. Blumfield, A. Scott, J. Kondarovswkis, N. Corp, N. Ries Old Xaverians Goals: B. Goss 2, J. Williams 2, M. Handley 2, O. Gidley, L. Tiernan, N. Wynne Best: N. Wynne, T. Carey, M. Ball, L. Tiernan, T. Dynon, J. Agius J.F. Nelson Medallist: Andrew Scott (Collegians)

Left: Collegians Captain Nick Ries Right: Collegians Chris Blumfield and Old Xaverians Ben Kennedy battle for the ball Opposite page: Jock Nelson Medalist Andrew Scott

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

14

JN Woodrow Medal

Votes

Cameron Howat

Old Carey

Chris Richards

St Bedes / Mentone Tigers

21 14

Hamish Dick

Old Scotch

13

Thomas O’Sullivan

Caulfield Grammarians

13

Julian Rowe

Old Carey

12

Trent Zimbachs

Collegians

12

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

Andrew Ramsden

Old Trinity

16

56*

Damien Yze

Old Carey

16

56*

Sam Pickett

De La Salle

20

51

Matthew Handley

Old Xaverians

18

48

Shaun Glennen

St Bedes/Mentone Tigers

18

41 *Sharpshooter

Collegians Premiership Team B

J. Kamener

S. Inglis

HB

C. Hylton

C. Holst

W. Tardif

C

J. Kondarovswkis

D. Strachan

C. Blumfield

HF

N. Ries

N. Corp

J. Bull

F

L.Ferguson

N. Sautner

S. Taft

R

B. Dixon

A. Scott

T. Zimbachs

INT

COACHES

15

C. Simmons

J.Harvey, J. Jorgensen, C. Lee, S. Troon Mark Hibbins & Simon Arnott

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Premier reserves

PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

De La Salle

18

16

2

0

0

0

1403

793

176.92

64

Old Xaverians

18

13

5

0

0

0

1314

714

184.03

52

Collegians

18

13

5

0

0

0

1327

835

158.92

52

University Blues

18

12

6

0

0

0

1283

907

141.46

48

Old Scotch

18

12

6

0

0

0

1504

1072

140.3

48

Caulfield Grammarians

18

9

9

0

0

0

1416

1110

127.57

36

St Bernards

18

9

9

0

0

0

947

1112

85.16

36

Old Carey

18

3

15

0

0

0

891

1440

61.88

12

Old Trinity

18

2

16

0

0

0

793

1645

48.21

8

St Bedes/Mentone Tigers

18

1

17

0

0

0

659

1909

34.52

4

De La Salle Premiership Team

Grand Final

B

D. GriďŹƒn

A. Palmer

M. Nankervis

HB

J. Crowe

A. Roberts

B. Pratt

C

A. Kneebone

J. Hansen

E. Clinch

HF

M. Duggan

T. Parker

D. Close

F

R. Harris

N. Fyfield

J. Phillips

R

N. Roberts

J. Harris

L. Semmel

INT

P. Harrison, N. Hyland, L. Williams, L. Bull

COACH

Dominic McInerney

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Pts

De La Salle 2.2, 5.4, 7.6, 7.6 (48) Old Xaverians 2.6, 2.8, 4.9, 5.15 (45) Old Xaverians Goals: D. Iacuone, T. Parker, C. Larkins, D. Harangozo, A. Ryan Best: S. Lees, J. Scanlan, A. Ryan, D. Sapuppo, J. Ulbrick, M. Walsh De La Salle Goals: J. Phillips 2, J. Harris, E. Clinch, T. Parker, M. Duggan, N. Fyfield Best: R. Harris, B. Pratt, J. Crowe, J. Phillips, L. Semmel, N. Roberts Best on Ground: Ryan Harris (De La Salle)

16

Premier thirds

PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Old Xaverians

18

15

1

0

2

0

1658

552

300.36

Pts 68

Collegians

18

13

3

0

2

0

1393

750

185.73

60

Old Scotch

18

11

5

0

2

0

1118

798

140.1

52

University Blues

18

10

6

0

2

0

1150

841

136.74

48

De La Salle

17

7

8

0

2

1

1157

1106

104.61

40

Old Carey

18

4

12

0

2

0

847

1300

65.15

24

St Bernards

17

4

11

0

2

0

753

1339

56.24

24

Caulfield Grammarians

18

4

12

0

2

0

875

1584

55.24

24

Old Trinity

18

3

13

0

2

0

526

1330

39.55

20

University Blues Premiership Team

Grand Final

B

J. Edwards

T. Calvert

C. Boravac

HB

D. Condon

L. Quin

A. Prendergast

C

R. Kennedy

E. Long

J. Hibbert

HF

B. Drake

J. Hood

S. Dalton

F

D. Carmody

J. Townley

H. Hanlon

R

J. Crawford T. Auld D. Marshall B. Jongebloed, M. Pickering, L. Garrick, P. Marshall, O. Lade, P. Mithen Bob Girdwood

INT COACH

17

University Blues 3.6, 6.8, 9.9, 10.13 (73) Collegians 0.1, 3.4, 5.5, 7.6 (48) Collegians Goals: J. Ashman 2, D. Mutton, P. Timms, J. Slatyer, D. Jayatilake, A. Shinkfield Best: N. Brown, L. Schoknecht, A. Shinkfield, M. Parrent, R. Blackley, J. Slatyer University Blues Goals: J. Townley 3, H. Hanlon 2, R. Kennedy, D. Carmody, S. Dalton, B. Drake, D. Marshall Best: D. Condon, J. Crawford, B. Jongebloed, J. Hood, J. Townley, L. Quin Best on Ground: Jared Crawford (University Blues)

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Premier B

Although the last few years in Premier B

some of their regions up-and-coming stars

have produced some blanket finishes across

such as young Sudanese ruckman, Bol

an incredibly tight competition, 2012 saw a

Kolang. Bernie Sheehy retired as AJAX coach

return of a more traditional divide between

at seasons end, fittingly bestowed with an

the top and bottom halves of the ladder.

AFL Victoria Recognition of Service Award

The year started with six new coaches at the

after a long and illustrious coaching career.

helm: a clear message from clubs striving for Premier Section that close was simply not good enough. There was a common trend of replenishment and revitalisation amongst the club ranks with plenty of youth, a steadying core of experience and a sprinkling return of highly vaunted veterans across the competition.

A compelling start by St Kevin’s led by newly installed Coach Daniel Harford saw them unbeaten through the first eight rounds, giving high hopes to the tri-colour faithful who had endured a frustrating 2011 finals series.

season was largely unremarkable, certainly by their standards, and a middle-of-theroad finish surprised many considering the solid wins they enjoyed over Beaumaris and University Blacks. Many of their high quality players had VFL commitments that were keenly felt, perhaps more so than any other Premier B side.

Old Ivanhoe and Oakleigh were unable to avoid relegation, but next year’s turn in Premier C will hopefully see them rally and

Meanwhile Old Ivanhoe and Oakleigh slipped

rebound.

to the bottom rungs early on, their reserve

University

ranks unable to underpin the various losses to their lists and a number of huge scores were kicked against them. University Blacks loomed large as finals contenders under favourite son Matt Kempton, winning well until they dropped a slippery 2-point game to Beaumaris who also showed renewed strength and confidence throughout their list. Old Melburnians and Old Brighton were slower to start but once some rhythm was established, each challenged at the highest level, finishing their respective years with plenty of impetus and positives looking forward to 2013.

Promoted from Premier C, AJAX and Werribee Districts both showed flashes of brilliance despite

some

erratic

form,

and

were

pleasingly able to maintain their position in Premier B for 2013. Werribee were shattered in the pre-season with unprecedented losses

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Dropping down from Premier, Old Haileybury’s

Blacks

took

out

the

minor

premiership with 16 wins and two losses, St Kevin’s struggled with form in the final rounds of the home and away, but hung onto second spot nevertheless with superior percentage to Beaumaris. Old Melburnians held out Old Haileybury and Old Brighton to finish in fourth place.

The semi finals were as contrasting in nature as the vastly different weather conditions over the first finals weekend; Uni Blacks heralded their return to Premier with a resounding 11 goal thrashing of SKOBs at Box Hill City oval under a heavy lashing from the heavens. A much closer battle ensued the following day in warm, still conditions at Trevor Barker Oval where Beaumaris took the points in a thrilling contest with Old Melburnians to advance to the Preliminary final.

of experienced and promising young players,

The signs didn’t look good for St Kevin’s,

but were able nonetheless to showcase

their confidence battered from the second

18

University Blacks loomed large as finals contenders under favourite son Matt Kempton, winning well until they dropped a slippery 2-point game to Beaumaris

semi and the Sharks were clearly in form.

GT Moore Medal

In their 50th anniversary year Beaumaris

Charlie Richardson

University Blacks

20

Thomas Paule

Old Melburnians

19

Andrew Willingham

University Blacks

18

club had never before achieved. St Kevin’s

James Marchesani

St Kevins

14

regained Tom Simpson and Phil Edgar but

Daniel Costello

University Blacks

14

weren’t just vying for a finals berth, but promotion to Premier – something the

Beaumaris flew out of the blocks with three unanswered goals and were electric in a hard-fought contest. Ben Dowd and Michael Shanahan were outstanding for St Kevin’s, whilst the likes of Sam McBain, Wil Murton and Sean Coote typified the spread of youth and experience that carried Jason Mifsud’s

Votes

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

David Fayman

AJAX

15

60*

Henry Parkes

St Kevins

19

51

Jake Lew

AJAX

15

48

Cameron Beck

Old Melburnians

19

49

Lachlan Bennett

Old Melburnians

19

Sharks through to victory, a grand final and

University Blacks Premiership Team

elevation to the Association’s highest tier.

Grand

Final

day

was

momentous

48 *Sharpshooter

for

each of the contenders; University Blacks and Beaumaris were competing for both Reserves and Senior Premierships so both clubs had large followings in attendance on a surprisingly warm day. Expectations were high, Blacks were returning to Premier after a five year hiatus, whilst Beaumaris will

B

L.Kalms

T.Howgate

N.Batten

HB

S.Thomas

A.Pitt

J.Delahunty

C

A.Drysdale

D.Costello

H.Lahy

HF

H.Lacey

J.Slabbert

C.Richardson

F

J.Matthews

J.Foster

S.Weekley

R

A.Willingham

B.Mahon

S.Flight

INT COACH

T.Napier, J.Roder, C.Turner, J.Gaylor Matt Kempton

be the first District club to grace the upper echelon for sixteen years. The early game ended in a nail-biting finish, Blacks victorious by two points.

The feature game was a showcase of Premier B talent and Blacks again dominated the packs and clearances. Beaumaris fought hard and were impressive in patches, Anthony Carroll and Cal Buckley their best but Black’s consistency across the ground was evident.

Moore medallist Charlie Richardson showed his Best and Fairest form to take out the Cordner Best on Ground medal, while Bede Mahon got the nod from the Inner FM commentary team. Delahunty was superb in defence, Willingham in the ruck and Foster unstoppable kicking five goals as the Varsity took out the 2012 Premiership with a 27-point win.

19

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Results PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

University Blacks

18

16

2

0

0

0

1801

941

191.39

64

St Kevins

18

13

5

0

0

0

1832

1261

145.28

52

Beaumaris

18

13

5

0

0

0

1757

1310

134.12

52

Old Melburnians

18

12

6

0

0

0

1612

1333

120.93

48

Old Haileybury

18

11

7

0

0

0

1529

1303

117.34

44

Old Brighton

18

10

8

0

0

0

1523

1404

108.48

40

AJAX

18

7

11

0

0

0

1538

1880

81.81

28

Werribee Districts

18

4

14

0

0

0

1253

1612

77.73

16

Oakleigh

18

3

15

0

0

0

1250

1966

63.58

12

Old Ivanhoe

18

1

17

0

0

0

1070

2155

49.65

4

Scribe’s team of the year B

J Huxtable (Werribee Districts)

S Bishop (St Kevins)

M Dean (Werribee Districts)

HB

J Delahunty (University Blacks)

A Pitt (University Blacks)

A Marangon (Old Melb)

C

B Seccull (Old Haileybury)

C Buckley (Beaumaris)

E Routman (AJAX)

HF

P Edgar (St Kevins)

C Beck (Old Melburnians)

T Dean (Beaumaris) (VC)

F

J Slabbert (University Blacks)

D Fayman (AJAX)

D Anthony (Old Brighton)

R

A Willingham (University Blacks)

J Marchesani (St Kevins)

C Richardson (University Blacks)

INT

A Lynch (St Kevins) (C), M Del Monte (Old Ivanhoe), H Harrold (Oakleigh), J Perrett (Old Brighton)

COACH

Matt Kempton

Semi Final 1

Beaumaris Old Melburnians

4.3 5.2

6.7 9.2

13.8 14.4

18.13 (121) 16.4 (13)

Semi Final 2

University Blacks St Kevins

1.3 0.1

4.7 1.3

8.11 1.4

11.14 (80) 1.7 (13)

Beaumaris Goals: S. Gower 3, M. Petering 3, W. Murton 2, R. Cathcart 2, S. McBain 2, M. Duggan, L. McNicholas, W. Edmonds, J. Ward, T. Buckley, K. Barnes Best: B. Haynes, C. Buckley, M. Ensor, L. McNicholas, M. Duggan, T. Dean Old Melburnians Goals: L. Bennett 3, T. Hywood 3, C. Beck 2, P. Kruger 2, N. De Steiger, N. Nixon, J. Beaumont, T. Paule, A. Marangon, P. Kennon Best: E. De Fegely, J. Beaumont, T. Hywood, J. Beaumont, H. Macciolli, T. Paule

University Blacks Goals: J. Foster 3, H. Lacey 2, J. Matthews, S. Flight, J. Slabbert, H. Lahy, A. Willingham, J. Gaylor Best: N. Batten, B. Mahon, A. Willingham, S. Weekley, H. Lahy, J. Delahunty St Kevins Goals: S. Bishop Best: K. Brick, J. Nash, S. Bishop, J. Weber, P. Keely, M. Shanahan

Preliminary Final

Grand Final

Old Xaverians De La Salle

1.1 4.2

3.4 7.5

6.5 10.7

14.6 (90) 11.10 (76)

Old Xaverians Goals: B. Goss 4, M. Handley 3, E. Prowse 2, J. Agius 2, M. Darvell, J. Williams, D. Lynch Best: B. Goss, E. Prowse, J. Agius, N. Wynne, M. Darvell, P. Ambrose De La Salle Goals: B. Eddy 6, D. Lowe, J. Williams, N. Roberts, A. Kneebone, S. Haslem Best: B. Eddy, T. Humphrey, A. Shields, D. Lowe, T. Hunt, C. Kelliher

University Blacks Beaumaris

4.5, 3.0,

10.5, 4.4,

14.9, 7.6,

University Blacks Goals: J. Foster 5, C. Richardson 2, H. Lacey 2, J. Slabbert, H. Lahy, A. Willingham, S. Weekley, B. Mahon, A. Drysdale Best: S. Weekley, A. Willingham, J. Delahunty, B. Mahon, J. Foster, C. Richardson Beaumaris Goals: S. Braithwaite 3, S. McBain 3, T. Dean, R. Cathcart, A. Carroll, J. Ward, M. Petering Best: A. Carroll, C. Buckley, S. Braithwaite, T. Dean, K. Barnes, M. Ensor I.R Cordner Medallist: Charlie Richardson (University Blacks)

Left: Uni Blacks’ Steven Flight in the Grand Final Right: from the left is: Scott Weekley (VC) Andrew Willingham, Daniel Costello (C) Tom Howgate (VC) & Huw Lacey

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

15.12 (102) 11.9 (75)

20

Premier B reserves

PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

University Blacks

18

15

3

0

0

0

1792

574

312.2

60

St Kevins

18

15

3

0

0

0

1678

744

225.54

60

Old Brighton

18

15

3

0

0

0

1569

884

177.49

60

Beaumaris

18

13

5

0

0

0

1599

980

163.16

52

Old Melburnians

18

10

8

0

0

0

1642

937

175.24

40

Old Haileybury

18

8

10

0

0

0

1255

1467

85.55

32

AJAX

18

4

14

0

0

0

949

1672

56.76

16

Old Ivanhoe

18

4

14

0

0

0

618

2103

29.39

16

Oakleigh

18

3

15

0

0

0

924

1756

52.62

12

Werribee Districts

18

3

15

0

0

0

872

1781

48.96

12

University Blacks Premiership Team B HB C HF F R INT COACH

D. Batten A. Torney M. Aitken A. Jesse (C) J. Crameri T. Woods

Grand Final University Blacks 6.4, 10.6, 11.9, 12.10 (82) Beaumaris 0.1, 6.4, 8.4, 12.8 (80) University Blacks Goals: A. Cook 3, M. MacGugan 2, A. Jesse 2, J. Gardiner, J. Bismire, S. Myers, J. Steadman, J. Crameri Best: D. Hunt, M. MacGugan, A. Cook, S. McNamara, S. Yule, A. Jesse Beaumaris Goals: T. Pritchard 3, J. Di Natale 2, D. Pritchard 2, S. McLaren, N. Loucaides, M. Millar, N. Dickinson, J. Bull Best: J. Bull, J. Evans, W. Mattingley, T. Abbott, B. McLean, T. Rayner

H. Guthrie J. Heeley A. Else D. Hunt M. Macgugan J. Gardiner N. Holt J. Bismire J. Steadman A. Cook S. Myers S. MacNamara J. Nettlefold, J. Clarke, J. Lahy, S. Yule Luke O’Connell

Best on Ground: Daniel Hunt (University Blacks)

Premier B thirds

PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

St Kevins

17

10

5

0

2

1

1664

871

191.04

52

Old Xaverians

16

9

5

0

2

2

1322

863

153.19

52

Old Brighton

17

10

5

0

2

1

1218

1061

114.8

52

Old Melburnians

17

10

5

0

2

1

1332

1165

114.33

52

University Blacks

16

5

9

0

2

2

907

1064

85.24

36

Northern Blues

18

5

10

0

3

0

1004

1174

85.52

32

AJAX

9

2

6

0

1

0

577

1219

47.33

12

Oakleigh

6

0

6

0

0

0

383

1173

32.65

0

Old Melburnians Premiership Team B HB C HF F R INT COACH

O Jenkins C. Stubbe N. Russell C. Baillieu J. Hooper D. Velakoulis R. Armit L. Koumouris M. Cottee A. Carter C. Tunbridge C. Wilmoth A. Cameron B. Baines S. Kemmerer T. Lackmann T. Oman W. Thompson (C) L. Ellis, J. Bate, S. Stacey, N. Yencken, A. Crosby, M. Spies John Guest

Grand Final Old Melburnians 3.3, 5.6, 7.10, 12.12 (84) Old Xaverians 1.2, 3.8, 6.10, 9.16 (70) Old Melburnians Goals: S. Kemmerer 4, T. Oman 2, C. Tunbridge 2, B. Baines , A. Carter , J. Hooper , A. Cameron Best: T. Oman, D. Velakoulis, A. Cameron, J. Hooper, A. Carter, W. Thompson Old Xaverians Goals: C. Denton 2, J.Curtis 2, L.Bisset 2, Z.Haupt 2, B.Corcoran 1 Best: Z.Haupt, L.Bisset, J.Curtis, N.Nunan, C.Denton, J.Banting Best on Ground: Zebe Haupt (Old Xaverians)

21

Pts

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Premier C

Premier C Section was the most open and competitive section in the VAFA in 2012. With just a few weeks to go in the home and away season every team from third to eighth were within two wins of each other. A side effect of this was that the relegated teams were known at this time too and Hampton Rovers and Monash Blues were consigned to playing out their last five weeks with the knowledge that they would be playing Division football in 2013.

The premiership race was wide open and the run into the finals was a question of who could avoid injuries, build form and keep that momentum rolling until Grand Final day at Trevor Barker Oval in September. The team that found all of that was Parkdale Vultures as they made their way to a second grand final appearance in as many years, securing double promotion and back to back premierships by defeating Fitzroy in the decider by 18 points.

Both Parkdale Vultures and Fitzroy have reached their highest section in the VAFA when they line up in Premier B next year.

Parkdale Vultures were heavy favourites against the Roys after their 10 goal win in the semi final but this contest was much closer.

The Vultures’ Matt Boland Lachlan Oakley and Matt Ryan were brilliant in the Grand Final with the latter securing the Ritterman Medal for the best on ground. Parkdale Vultures have retained the services of their two time premiership coach Sam Radford for their assault in Premier B and you would not put it past them to complete a triple jump by the end of 2013.

Fitzroy could be the next big thing in the VAFA. Already they have the makings of a powerful club and the determination of their administration and player group has to be

reserves and thirds securing premierships, the senior team was still disappointed with the loss to the Vultures. However, the Roys have enormous depth and will be a strong club in Premier B next season. Runner up in the Zachariah Medal Josh Vansittart won the club’s best and fairest.

Mazenod came third but can head into 2013 with optimism that the club is in a strong position. They had all four of their teams play finals in 2012 and whilst the elusive premiership flag was not achieved there was plenty of upside with their U19s beaten grand finalists after the siren. Tim Bourbon won the club best and fairest and the club had another winner in Stefan Davis who won the search for the VAFA’s strongest man on VAFA TV. It still seems strange to see Marcellin in Premier C and particularly so given the Eagles were one of the better performed sides in the home and away season. Losing a double chance on percentage to Fitzroy in round 18 might have cost the club a second final but a heartbreaking one point loss to Mazenod in the first semi should be motivation for the club as they prepare for next year. The club did provide the Zachariah Medalist Jarrod Carlson for the competition best and he also won his club’s best and fairest.

PEGS were the closest of the rest to playing finals and only missed out fourth spot on percentage. PEGS had a stellar season that should not be overlooked but still managed to drop games they were expected to win.

However, in such an even year where only two and a half wins separated first and sixth it is hard to be critical. Chris Goullet picked up the club best and fairest and with coach Trent Cummings re-appointed, expect the PEGS boys to be right amongst it in 2013.

witnessed first hand. Whilst the club had three teams making grand finals with their

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

22

The premiership race was wide open and the run into the finals was a question of who could avoid injuries, build form and keep that momentum rolling until Grand Final day

Half a game back was the inconsistent Old Camberwell who struggled to string wins together through the season. Often they saluted in games they were not expected to and lost matches they should have won. The club has a fantastic new facility at Gordon Barnard Reserve and they have the potential to be a major player in Premier C next season.

Banyule made a good transition as a promoted club back in Premier C. Adam Barclay was a standout winning the club best and fairest and the competition leading goal kicker for the section, but he alone could not help the Bears win enough games in the closing stages and their campaign ended in seventh position.

Rupertswood’s final season after 12 years in the Association ended in eighth place in Premier C. It was always a tough road trip out to Sunbury and the VAFA wishes Rupertswood the best of luck as a club in the future and is thankful for their contribution in their time with the Association. Lachlan Baddeley won

L Zachariah Medal

Votes

Jarrod Carlson

Marcellin

22

Joshua Vansittart

Fitzroy

20

Cameron Livori

PEGS

16

Leigh Fletcher

Hampton Rovers

14

Ben Hart

Old Camberwell

14

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

Adam Barclay

Banyule

17

71*

Leigh Brennan

Rupertswood

18

60

Darren Rochford

Parkdale Vultures

19

61

Chamath Jayaweera

Mazenod

20

57

Jack Duke

Old Camberwell

18

51 *Sharpshooter

Parkdale Vultures Premiership Team B

S. Kelleher

T. Redmond

T. Boland

HB

P. Groves

M. Ryan

C. Dillon

C

L. Platt

M. Graham

D. Price

HF

C. Ryan

D. Rochford

M. Kidner

F

S. Larkins

M. Boland

B. Hampton

R

M. Meyer

D. Robbins

P. Sullivan (C)

INT COACH

L. Oakley, R. Swayn, S. Chapman, S. Hendricks Sam Radford

the club best and fairest.

With about four rounds to go in the 2012 season Monash Blues were resigned to the fact that they would be playing in Division 1 in 2013. Fortunately they earn a reprieve courtesy of Rupertswood’s departure from the Association and it’s a great chance for the club to test themselves again in Premier C with a full list to choose from.

Hampton Rovers will be the first to admit that it was a difficult year for the club but outgoing coach Russell Barnes could not be more proud of what the club managed to do in 2012. Playing young players, often out of position didn’t see the club secure a senior win but the camaraderie and mateship was never questioned at the immaculate Boss James Reserve. Leigh Fletcher claimed his fourth club best and fairest award.

23

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Results PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

Parkdale Vultures

18

13

4

1

0

0

1751

1249

140.19

54

Fitzroy

18

13

5

0

0

0

1686

1139

148.02

52

Marcellin

18

13

5

0

0

0

1514

1135

133.39

52

Mazenod

18

11

7

0

0

0

1612

1118

144.19

44

PEGS

18

11

7

0

0

0

1643

1342

122.43

44

Old Camberwell

18

10

7

1

0

0

1531

1205

127.05

42

Banyule

18

8

10

0

0

0

1511

1632

92.59

32

Rupertswood

18

7

11

0

0

0

1425

1623

87.8

28

Monash Blues

18

3

15

0

0

0

1110

1538

72.17

12

Hampton Rovers

18

0

18

0

0

0

885

2687

32.94

0

Scribe’s team of the year B

J Parkinson (Fitzroy)

S Oldman (Mazenod),

HB

T Boland (Parkdale Vultures)

S Bennett (Old Camberwell)

B Bonner (Mazenod)

C

J Carlson (Marcellin)

L Fletcher (Hampton Rovers)

S Towner (PEGS)

HF

B Hampton (Parkdale Vultures)

D Rochford (Parkdale Vultures)

L Ablett (Fitzroy)

F

A Barclay (Banyule)

L Brennan (Rupertswood)

C Jayaweera (Mazenod)

R

W Carlyle (Old Camberwell)

J Vansittart (Fitzroy)

T Bourbon (Mazenod)

INT

S Baring (Monash Blues)

A Viney (Marcellin), M Quigley (Rupertswood), B Walsh (Banyule), C Goullet (PEGS)

Semi Final 1 Marcellin Mazenod

4.2 3.1

7.3 4.7

8.5 8.9

10.9 (69) 10.10 (70)

Semi Final 2

Parkdale Vultures Fitzroy

4.0 5.3

12.5 5.3

15.9 5.5

20.13 (133) 7.7 (49)

Marcellin Goals: M. Holmes, S. Abrahams, M. Bortolotto, J. Bortolotto, P. Augustin, A. Beaini, D. Jarred, N. Crosbie, J. Carlson, D. McMahon Best: J. Crimmins, J. Symes, J. Carlson, P. Augustin, A. Viney, M. Gasparini Mazenod Goals: T. Bourbon 3, N. Thomas 2, R. Thomas 2, D. Regan, C. Jayaweera, B. Phibbs Best: T. Bourbon, S. Inglis, B. Bonner, C. Smith, B. Phibbs, F. Ree

Parkdale Vultures Goals: L. Oakley, 6, M. Boland 6, S. Larkins 3, D. Rochford 3, C. Ryan, C. Dillon Best: L. Oakley, M. Boland, D. Robbins, M. Kidner, M. Ryan, D. Price Fitzroy Goals: L. Ablett 2, J. O’’Reilly 2, R. Angiolella, W. Fenton, M. Allen Best: J. Vansittart, M. Kyroussis, C. Polidoras, M. Allen, J. O’Reilly, R. Angiolella

Preliminary Final

Grand Final

Fitzroy Mazenod

2.5 2.2

8.8 6.7

14.11 6.8

19.12 (126) 9.11 (65)

Fitzroy Goals: M. Brown 3, R. Borland 2, J. Vansittart 2, S. Baker 2, W. Fenton 2, S. Cations 2, J. O’Reilly, L. Ablett, M. Kyroussis, J. Fraser, D. Pound-Palmieri, J. McGee Best: J. Vansittart, L. Ablett, J. Parkinson, S. Baker, J. Simcoe, M. Brown Mazenod Goals: C. Jayaweera 2, B. Phibbs 2, D. Regan, P. Johnson, N. Thomas, J. Cowan, S. Inglis Best: F. Reed, D. Chamberlain, T. Bourbon, J. Cowan, M. Chamberlain, B. Phibbs

Parkdale Vultures Fitzroy

5.4, 1.0,

7.8, 4.3,

10.13, 7.7,

Parkdale Vultures Goals: M. Boland 4, L. Oakley 3, C. Ryan 2, P. Groves 2, S. Larkins, C. Dillon, S. Hendricks, R. Swayn Best: L. Oakley, M. Ryan, M. Boland, D. Robbins, P. Groves, B. Hampton Fitzroy Goals: R. Borland 4, S. Cations 2, L. Ablett, W. Fenton, T. Hudson-Bevege, M. Kyroussis , J. McGee J. Meakin, J. Dalton Best: R. Borland, L. Ablett, J. Parkinson, J. Meakin, J. Vansittart, M. Kyroussis M. Ritterman Medallist: Matthew Ryan (Parkdale Vultures)

Left: David Robbins was one of Parkdale Vultures better players Right: Mark Kidner in the Grand Final

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

15.16 (106) 13.10 (88)

24

Premier C reserves

PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Fitzroy

18

18

0

0

0

0

1784

615

290.08

72

Marcellin

18

14

4

0

0

0

1544

808

191.09

56

Old Camberwell

18

12

6

0

0

0

1678

890

188.54

48

Mazenod

18

10

8

0

0

0

1512

928

162.93

40

PEGS

18

9

8

1

0

0

1181

1114

106.01

38

Banyule

18

8

9

1

0

0

1202

1213

99.09

34

Parkdale Vultures

18

8

9

1

0

0

1070

1291

82.88

34

Monash Blues

18

7

10

1

0

0

1193

1129

105.67

30

Rupertswood

18

1

17

0

0

0

695

1831

37.96

4

Hampton Rovers

18

1

17

0

0

0

393

2433

16.15

4

Fitzroy Premiership Team B HB C HF F R INT COACH

Pts

Grand Final Fitzroy 2.4, 4.7, 11.13, 12.14 (86) Marcellin 2.2, 3.4, 4.5, 7.6 (48) Fitzroy Goals: M. Racovalis 4, D. Pound-Palmieri 3, J. Beech 2, P. O’Connor, N. Jumeau, O. Stoltz Best: J. Dimond, D. Pound-Palmieri, M. Coad, C. Ball, P. O’Connor, D. Olarenshaw Marcellin Goals: G. Romanin 2, S. Crapper, D. Tantsis Hall, D. Marson, H. Lee, T. Jordan Best: M. Bridges, D. Tantsis Hall, D. Isaac, J. Coburn, D. Marson, A. Montalto

C. Moore C. Ball T. Parkinson T. Cheshire T. Biscaro R. Ewing N. Jumeau D. Olarenshaw N. Marshall O. Stoltz J. Beech D. Pound Palmieri M. Cussen M. Racovalis J. Clark M. Coad J. Dimond P. O’Connor D. Kynigopoulos, A. Harbor, M. Lee, W. Johnson Bruce Edwards

Best on Ground: Jesse Dimond (Fitzroy)

Premier C thirds

PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

Fitzroy

16

14

2

0

0

2

2046

808

253.22

64

St Kevins

18

16

2

0

0

0

1654

940

175.96

64

Old Camberwell

18

13

5

0

0

0

1618

1065

151.92

52

Mazenod

18

8

9

1

0

0

1296

1275

101.65

34

Marcellin

18

7

10

1

0

0

1632

1388

117.58

30

Banyule

17

6

11

0

0

0

1283

1610

79.69

24

Old Mentonians

18

4

14

0

0

0

896

2090

42.87

16

Whitefriars

17

1

16

0

0

0

880

2166

40.63

4

Fitzroy Premiership Team B HB C HF F R INT COACH

Grand Final

D.Ryan G.McCarthy J.Harding R.Breda J.Murray C.Krousoratis M.Beacham S.Graham M.Cusack S.Fulton M.Oliver A.Ley T.Wilson D.Temple J.Mackay D.McLeod M.Cook J.Cowan Clark M.Younger, A.Grant, J.Pitts, D.Morgan, N.Brown, A.Biggs Troy McMaster

Fitzroy 1.6, 4.7, 6.9, 13.12 (90) St Kevins 2.2, 3.2, 4.4, 6.5 (41) Fitzroy Goals: T. Wilson 6, D. Temple 2, M. Beacham 2, A. Ley, J. Murray, M. Oliver Best: A. Ley, J. Pitts, D. Temple, T. Wilson, M. Cusack, G. McCarthy St Kevins Goals: L. Davrain 4, T. McMaster, D. Loschiavo Best: R. Dicintio, L. Davrain, J. Murphy Cruise, D. Kelly, J. Jolly, D. Loschiavo Best on Ground: James Pitts(Fitzroy)

25

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Division 1

North Old Boys / St Patrick’s were deserved Division 1 premiers, capping off a remarkably consistent season with a hard-fought 18 point victory over Peninsula Old Boys in the Grand Final. In perfect conditions for football at Trevor Barker Oval, NOBs-St Pats got off to a flyer and hung on grimly as the Pirates threw everything at them. NOB/ St Pats were outstanding all season, with their only blemish being a heavy defeat at Peninsula in round 2. It was an impressive effort to then go on and win the next 18 games on the trot culminating with the flag.

NOBs/St Pats premiership captain Matthew Keown enjoyed a brilliant season, winning his second consecutive Pepper Medal for the competition’s best and fairest player.

Although they were again the bridesmaids, one cannot understate the effort of the Peninsula Old Boys in the grand final.

They fought until the bitter end, narrowing the deficit to as little as eight points in the final term. Purely and simply, they were beaten by a superior opponent on the day. The consolation for the Pirates is that they progress to Premier C in 2013, where they are sure to provide a stern test for all opponents who travel to Mt Eliza. Peninsula was also very consistent, losing only three matches during the home and away rounds.

Forward Shaun Payze was the competition’s leading goal-kicker with 58 goals.

Under the stewardship of veteran VAFA coach Frank Dunnell, Old Geelong proved to be the big improvers of 2012. The highlight of the OGs’ season was a stirring come-

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

from behind victory at Peninsula, a result which saw the rest of the competition sit up and take notice. Although Old Geelong managed to record a thrilling overtime win in the first semi-final, they were not quite strong enough to match it with the Pirates in the Preliminary Final. Colby O’Brien won his second consecutive best and fairest award.

In a season blighted by injury, Whitefriars never quite got into top gear, so they can probably take some solace from the fact that they were only minutes away from a preliminary final appearance. The Friars surprisingly dropped three games at home and it was instructive that the top two teams both “did the double” over them. Young gun Danny Hogan was a convincing winner of the Friars best and fairest.

Although they finished fifth, all at Melbourne High School Old Boys would probably admit that the three games between themselves and fourth place was a fair reflection of the gap in class between the finalists and the rest of the competition. After recovering from a horror 1-3 start to the season, the Unicorns competitiveness saw them string together some fine wins in the middle part of the season.

For much of the first half of the season Old Mentonians were in the top four, but they fell away badly, recording only a solitary win in the last eight rounds. Despite this disappointing end to the year the Panthers took some giant strides, particularly if one remembers they only narrowly avoided relegation in 2011. Also, the decision to play a handful of home matches at Mordialloc proved successful. Luke Hull was the best and fairest.

26

It was an impressive effort to then go on and win eighteen games on the trot culminating with the flag.

After being relegated from Premier C in 2011, Ormond would have been looking to bounce back and, at the very least, play finals. But it was not to be. The huge first round win over the Saints was a false dawn. Despite being competitive in the first half of the season, Ormond limped to the finish line, winning only the last of their final six matches.

The best that could be said for the disappointing Williamstown CYMS is that they managed to avoid relegation. Five wins was a poor return for a club which, given preseason form, was widely expected to play a part at the pointy end of the season. The CYs’ 13-point win over MHSOB in round 13 would ultimately save them from the drop.

Ben Gray was a runaway winner of the best and fairest.

Following their 2011 Division 1 Grand Final, Glen Eira lost a number of experienced players to retirement, which left a large hole in the playing roster. The Saints could manage only four wins, and copped some thumpings from the top teams, however they will get another shot at Division 1 next season due to the Rupertswood departure from the Association. Fellow new side St John’s Old Collegians will return to Division 2 after only one season. The Jocs were by far the youngest outfit in Division 1 this season, and will surely be better for the experience.

LS Pepper Medal

Votes

Matthew Keown

North Old Boys/St Patrick’s

23

Justin Mills

Glen Eira

20

Stefan Barbour

Peninsula

18

James Tran

MHSOB

16

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

Shaun Payze

Peninsula

21

58*

Josh Vanderloo

Williamstown CYMS

16

52

Todd Patterson

North Old Boys/St Patrick’s

19

53

Callum Wood

Old Geelong

19

50

Matthew Keown

North Old Boys/St Patrick’s

20

41 *Sharpshooter

North Old Boys/St Patrick’s Premiership Team B

D. Beaumont

M. O’Donoghue

D. Delmenico

HB

A. Oakley

C. Hosking

P. Ryan

C

J. Cassell

M. Porter

T. Brady

HF

C. Ryan

M. Keown

C. Horsley

F

S. Sleep

T. Patterson

J. Gibson

R

P. Shepherd

M. Firman

S. O’Connor

INT COACH

C. Ford, D. Tonkin, L. Ezard, G. Maxton Richard Peoples

Darren Dawson

27

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Results PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

NOBs/St Pats

18

17

1

0

0

0

1929

1185

162.78

Pts 68

Peninsula

18

15

3

0

0

0

2251

1063

211.76

60

Old Geelong

18

13

5

0

0

0

1811

1329

136.27

52

Whitefriars

18

12

6

0

0

0

1900

1269

149.72

48

MHSOB

18

9

9

0

0

0

1432

1663

86.11

36

Old Mentonians

18

7

10

1

0

0

1393

1303

106.91

30

Ormond

18

6

11

1

0

0

1496

1548

96.64

26

Williamstown CYMS

18

5

13

0

0

0

1232

2075

59.37

20

Glen Eira

18

4

14

0

0

0

1283

2173

59.04

16

St Johns

18

1

17

0

0

0

1148

2267

50.64

4

Scribe’s team of the year B

J. Tran (MHSOB)

C. Christianson (St Johns)

B. Southam (Peninsula OB)

HB

B. Gray (Williamstown CYMS)

C. McDonald (Whitefriars)

D. Hogan (Whitefriars)

C

L. Hull (Old Mentonians)

S. Barbour (Peninsula OB)

T. Brady (North Old Boys/St Patrick’s)

HF

C. Wood (Old Geelong)

M. Keown (North Old Boys/St Patrick’s)

H. Simon (Ormond)

F

J. Vanderloo (Williamstown CYMS)

S. Payze (Peninsula OB)

J. Mills (Glen Eira)

R

G. Snow (Old Mentonians)

N. Campbell (MHSOB)

D. Elkman (Ormond)

INT

A. Oakley (North Old Boys/St Patrick’s), R. Cordy (Old Geelong), J Gaget (St Johns), A. Spink (Glen Eira)

Semi Final 1 Old Geelong Whitefriars

2.1 5.5

4.5 7.5

6.5 9.7

12.14 (86) 12.12 (84)

Semi Final 2

North Old Boys/St Pats Peninsula

3.6 2.5

4.9 6.8

5.12 7.10

8.17 (65) 8.15 (63)

Old Geelong Goals: R. McEvoy 5, J. O’’Shea 2, C. O’’Brien 2, H. Timms Best: H. Timms, W. Symons, M. Collister, P. Ellis, C. O’’Brien, E. Bayles Whitefriars Goals: R. Petracca 4, J. Daou 3, D. Tibaldi 2, A. Woods 2, M. Mirabella Best: T. Pollett, J. Scannell, R. Petracca, J. Daou, R. Storey, D. Loh

North Old Boys/St Pats Goals: M. Firman 3, L. Ezard, T. Patterson, C. Horsley, S. Sleep, P. Ryan Best: C. Hosking, M. Firman, T. Brady, J. Cassell, D. Delmenico, P. Shepherd Peninsula Goals: S. Grigg 3, J. Pomeroy, S. Payze, V. Clarke, S. Barbour, N. Fisher Best: S. Barbour, . Bannister, A. Wood, S. Grigg, T. Stainforth, R. Bambery

Preliminary FInal

Grand Final

Peninsula Old Geelong

3.3 1.2

5.8 1.2

10.13 3.4

12.16 (88) 6.5 (41)

Peninsula Goals: J. Coghlan 3, A. Wood 3, S. Barbour 2, N. Fisher 2, B. Brisbane, J. Pomeroy H. Whitty, R. Bambery Best: A. Wood, W. Sansom, J. Hood, B. Brisbane, B. Southam, S. Barbour Old Geelong Goals: R. McEvoy 2, J. Ratcliffe, A. Macdonald, N. Waters, C. Wood Best: M. Rockefeller, S. Kitchen, R. Cordy, H. Johnstone, A. Suvoltos

North Old Boys/St Pats Peninsula

6.3 2.1

11.5 5.3

16.13 (109) 13.13 (91)

North Old Boys/St Pats Goals: C. Horsley 4, M. Keown 4, M. Firman 3, T. Patterson 2, C. Ryan, P. Shepherd D. Tonkin Best: P. Shepherd, T. Brady, M. Keown, M. Porter, A. Oakley, C. Horsley Peninsula Goals: H. Whitty 3, S. Barbour 2, J. Coghlan 2, N. Fisher 2, B. Brisbane, B. Southam, G. Carr, A. Wood Best: N. Fisher, B. Southam, A. Wood, H. Whitty, R. Bambery, S. Barbour J.W Manton Medallist: Nicholas Fisher (Peninsula)

Left: Jack Gibson just gets his kick in for North Old Boys/St Pat’s Right: NOB/St Pat’s Premiership captain and Pepper Medalist Matt Keown battles for the ball

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

13.10 8.10

28

Division 1 reserves

PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Old Geelong

18

16

2

0

0

0

2009

728

275.96

Pts 64

Peninsula

18

13

5

0

0

0

1678

900

186.44

52

MHSOB

17

11

6

0

0

0

1289

900

143.22

44

Whitefriars

18

11

7

0

0

0

1363

1101

123.8

44

Ormond

18

10

8

0

0

0

1405

1022

137.48

40

Old Mentonians

17

10

7

0

0

0

1445

1132

127.65

40

Williamstown CYMS

18

9

9

0

0

0

1271

1205

105.48

36

NOBs/St Pats

18

6

12

0

0

0

1048

1282

81.75

24

Glen Eira

18

3

15

0

0

0

892

1677

53.19

12

St Johns

18

0

18

0

0

0

379

2832

13.38

0

Old Geelong Premiership Team

Grand Final

B

J. McPherson

J. Wright

T. Slattery

HB

T. Bear

W. Symons

N. O’Hare

C

D. Wood

M. Morris

G. Perry

HF

S. Lansdell (C)

T. Hope-Johnstone

R. Herd

F

W. Oakley

W. Harris

E. Stevens

R

C. Bolsin

H. Beaumont

J. Powell

INT COACH

A. Power, A. Price, N. Neville, T. Steinfort Chris Rubick

29

Old Geelong 6.5 6.5 8.6 12.11 (83) MHSOB 3.4 4.5 7.7 9.7 (61) Old Geelong Goals: E. Stevens 4, T. Hope-Johnstone 4, W. Harris 3, A. Power Best: D. Wood, E. Stevens, T. Bear, W. Harris, W. Symons, J. Powell MHSOB Goals: M. Hamilton-Ho 3, N. Orchard 2, M. Ham, M. Santomartino, C. Hewish, C. Wright Best: C. Wright, T. Fraczek, J. Bunting, N. Orchard, M. Hamilton-Ho Best on Ground: David Wood (Old Geelong)

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Division 2

When a grand final is decided by two points

should acknowledge the season that was in

you are glad you were there to witness it. What

2012, Eltham won 14 games and were very

made the Division 2 Grand Final a showcase

hard to beat at home and Sam Richardson

for the section was the undulating nature of

won the club best and fairest.

the contest between the demoted Bulleen Templestowe and the promoted Prahran Assumption. Such a contrast between the two sides from the previous season was undetectable on the day.

Bulleen

Templestowe

Old Paradians season was one of promise in their first outing under the playing captain coach David Boundy. Boundy is one of the stars of the competition and whilst he continued to be one of Paradians better

bounced

back

to

players he rarely made his way in to the best

Division 1 in style by claiming the flag a year

players list at the end of each game. Instead

after a season that had netted them only two

we saw James Kandilakis, Daniel Giddings and

wins. The grand final was full of lead changes

Daniel Mahony taking the limelight. Boundy

and momentum swings but ultimately it just

still led their goal kicking, but Giddings claimed

happened that the Bullants were in front at

the club best and fairest.

the final siren. It capped a memorable season for the club who also won the Reserves premiership. Bulleen Templestowe’s Paul Florence was best on ground in the grand final and Rod Edsall claimed the club best and fairest.

Monash Gryphons had a positive season that ultimately saw them fall short of finals football by a couple of games and proved that when you get promoted and manage to hold on to most of your players, you are a good chance of survival. Ten wins and eight losses is a good

Coming from a perfect season in 2011,

year and funnily enough, was exactly the same

Prahran Assumption acquitted themselves

record as their previous year in Division 3. The

brilliantly in this section. After an early wake up

problem being they didn’t have the benefit of

call – a thrashing in round one to the eventual

a final five this time to launch a similar finals

premiers – Ash Mills had the team playing a

assault. It was a stabilising year and one that

committed brand of football and the side

the club can be proud of. Matthew Fletcher

entered the finals with confidence. Earning

was named the club’s best and fairest.

another promotion twice in as many years equates to success despite the heartbreaking grand final loss. This team should continue the ride of promotion before their veterans hang up the boots. One of those veterans, Paul Donahoo won the best and fairest and another Adam Sleight fell marginally short of the league goal kicking award.

After round 12, Therry Penola was a game outside the four in fifth and had seven wins on the board. At seasons end they had managed just one win in the final half dozen matches to finish a disappointing sixth with a negative win/loss record. Games were lost that should have been won. Perhaps the winter wet and mud didn’t suit their football style, but deep

Old Eltham Collegians looked destined for

down the club has loftier expectations so

a grand final berth for much of the season.

expect them to fire a shot or two next season

However two losses in the finals after earning

with former favourite son Dennis Castaldi

the double chance should sting enough for the

taking over the senior coaching reigns at the

Turtles to enter 2013 as one of the favourites

club.

in Division 2. Before looking to the future we

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

30

The grand final was full of lead changes and momentum swings but ultimately it just happened that the Bullants were in front at the final siren.

St Mary’s Salesian hovered a bit too close to the relegation zone throughout the season.

When they lost they tended to lose by a fair margin. David West can be thanked for driving the team forward as he collected his second Fullerton Medal for best and fairest in the section. West also won the club’s best

J Fullerton Medal

Votes

David West

St Mary’s Salesian

Sebastian Mahoney

South Melbourne Districts

21 20

James Musster

Prahran Assumption

19

Kristian Cherbakof

Bulleen Templestowe

18

Jarrod Egglestone

Therry Penola

18

Kye Cherian

Monash Gryphons

18

and fairest and is keen to stay at the club to work with one of the youngest lists in the Association.

At round 14 South Melbourne Districts were stuck in the midst of a relegation battle, but it’s amazing what a big club function can do to galvanise a club. South Melbourne’s centenary

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

Sebastian Ciavola

Old Eltham Collegians

19

71*

Adam Sleight

Prahran Assumption

21

71

Stuart Patten

La Trobe University

18

46

Jack McMeel

La Trobe University

18

44

Matthew Costello

Therry Penola

16

celebrations were to be held on 28th July and both the seniors and reserves saluted that day against St Mary’s Salesian to create an even brighter mood for the revelry that night.

The smiles continued the following week as they defeated eventual premiers Bulleen Templestowe. It was back to reality when they lost to bottom side La Trobe in Round 16 but a win in round 17 secured their safety for another season. Seb Mahoney picked up the club’s best and fairest.

42 *Sharpshooter

Bulleen Templestowe Premiership Team B

M. Pace

D. Tonelli

HB

D. Dynon

O. Schmidt

R. Course

C

O. Groth

B. Tourogianis

A. Lucisano

HF

P. Voglis

S. Avramidis

K. Cherbakov (C)

F

J. Wise

J. Khouri

J. Cowell

R

G. Williams

P. Florance (VC)

R. Edsall

INT COACH

P. Sartori

L. Wallis, C. Azer, J. Wilson, M. Stella Anthony Palmer

Emmaus St Leo’s earned a break when they were informed they would play another year in Division 2 despite finishing ninth with just three wins in 2012. Paul Baranello won their best and fairest and with the knowledge that they get another chance at Division 2 next year, don’t expect them to waste it.

Latrobe University were finalists in 2011 but this year was a different story. Winning only two games for the year sent the varsity club down a section. Elliot Kelly held off Carl Joyce to win the club’s best and fairest.

31

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Results PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Bulleen Templestowe

18

15

3

0

0

0

1811

1072

168.94

Pts 60

Old Eltham Collegians

18

14

4

0

0

0

1752

1054

166.22

56

Prahran Assumption

18

14

4

0

0

0

1614

1109

145.54

56

Old Paradians

18

12

6

0

0

0

1294

1048

123.47

48

Monash Gryphons

18

10

8

0

0

0

1477

1395

105.88

40

Therry Penola

18

8

10

0

0

0

1413

1422

99.37

32

St Mary’s Salesian

18

6

11

1

0

0

1024

1768

57.92

26

South Melb Districts

18

5

12

1

0

0

1395

1565

89.14

22

Emmaus St Leos

18

3

15

0

0

0

1118

1693

66.04

12

La Trobe University

18

2

16

0

0

0

998

1824

54.71

8

Scribe’s team of the year B

S Whiteside (Old Eltham)

J Matherson (Prahran Assumption)

L Wells (Monash Gryphons)

HB

J Egglestone (Therry Penola)

C Joyce (La Trobe University)

D Boundy (Old Paradians)

C

K Cherien (Monash Gryphons)

P Baranello(Emmaus St Leos)

D West (St Mary’s Salesian)

HF

P Florence(Bulleen Templestowe)

A Sleight (Prahran Assumption)

A Richardson (Old Eltham)

F

C Beluszar (Emmaus St Leos)

S Ciavola (Old Eltham)

S Patten (La Trobe University)

R

M Mashette (St Mary’s Salesian)

K Cherbakof(Bulleen Templstowe)

M Costello (Therry Penola)

INT

M Fletcher (Monash Gryphons), E Costello(Sth Melbourne Districts), J Muster(Prahran Assumption), S Mahoney(Sth Melbourne Districts)

Semi Final 1

Prahran Assumption Old Paradians

1.8 1.1

1.9 4.4

4.13 4.5

6.16 (52) 5.6 (36)

Semi Final 2

Bulleen Templestowe Old Eltham Collegians

3.4 2.2

7.13 2.3

10.16 4.6

15.18 (108) 7.7 (49)

Prahran Assumption Goals: A. Simpson 3, J. Robbins 2, M. Pell Best: P. Donahoo, B. Dempsey, D. Anglin, E. MacDonald, A. Simpson, A. Parsons Old Paradians Goals: M. Derham 2, A. Rendina, D. Mahony, D. Giddings Best: A. Rendina, M. Bellizia, S. Miller, D. Strantzen, A. Tulipano, J. Kandilakis

Bulleen Templestowe Goals: J. Khouri 3, P. Voglis 3, J. Cowell 2, J. Wise 2, P. Florance 2, O. Schmidt C. Azer , K. Cherbakof Best: R. Edsall, D. Dynon, J. Cowell, P. Florance, P. Sartori, B. Tourogianis Old Eltham Collegians Goals: J. Shea C. Brown, J. Laver, S. Whiteside, S. Richardson, B. Galvin, A. Hargrave Best: J. Laver, M. Crooks, R. Foo, B. Galvin, A. Lendaro, A. Hargrave

Preliminary Final

Grand Final

Old Eltham Collegians Prahran Assumption

2.1 0.4

5.4 6.7

5.6 9.11

7.12 (54) 11.14 (80)

Old Eltham Collegians Goals: S. Ciavola 2, J. Shea 2, C. Brown, S. Whiteside, S. Richardson Best: S. Richardson, A. Lendaro, J. Laver, S. Ciavola, J. Iaquinto, J. Shea Prahran Assumption Goals: J. Robbins 3, A. Parsons 2, A. Simpson, A. Sleight J. Ancrum, M. Pell, R. Pascoe, J. Musster Best: N. Davey, J. Ancrum, A. Parsons, J. Musster, P. Donahoo, E. MacDonald

Bulleen Templestowe Prahran Assumption

2.2 3.1

4.4 4.5

8.8 7.10

Bulleen Templestowe Goals: P. Voglis 4, A. Lucisano 2, C. Azer 2, J. Khouri, M. Stella, P. Florance Best: P. Florance, R. Edsall, J. Wilson, C. Azer, D. Tonelli, O. Schmidt Prahran Assumption Goals: A. Simpson 4, A. Parsons 2, A. Sleight 2, E. MacDonald, P. Donahoo Best: B. Dempsey, E. MacDonald, N. Davey, D. Barrett, P. Donahoo, M. Pell A.R Fellows Medallist: Paul Florence (Bulleen Templestowe)

Left: Anthony Lucisano attempts to win the ball Right: Rob Edsall tries to break free

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

11.11 (77) 10.15 (75)

32

Division 2 reserves

PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Bulleen Templestowe

18

17

1

0

0

0

1816

604

300.66

68

Old Paradians

18

13

5

0

0

0

1417

745

190.2

52

Prahran Assumption

18

12

4

2

0

0

1369

777

176.19

52

Therry Penola

18

12

6

0

0

0

1432

807

177.45

48

Old Eltham Collegians

18

10

8

0

0

0

1003

1259

79.67

40

Monash Gryphons

18

8

9

1

0

0

1198

1264

94.78

34

Emmaus St Leos

18

5

12

1

0

0

943

1241

75.99

22

St Mary’s Salesian

18

4

14

0

0

0

944

1510

62.52

16

La Trobe University

18

4

14

0

0

0

725

1768

41.01

16

South Melb Districts

18

3

15

0

0

0

808

1680

48.1

12

Bulleen Templestowe Premiership Team

Grand Final

B

D. Raneri

S. Pallozzi

M. Coulston

HB

A. Stavretis

D. Rogers

A. Tehan

C

D. Dakin

J. Paolucci

M. Roussidis (VC)

HF

A. Verga

G. Chivers

A. Lauria

F

D. Follacchio

D. Florance (C)

A. Samie

R

N. Palumbo

L. Costa

D. Voglis

INT COACH

N. Monaco, J. Meng, J. Hopkinson, M. Voglis Robert Schneider

33

Pts

Bulleen Templestowe Old Paradians

2.2 1.1

5.3 1.1

7.5 4.4

9.7 (61) 6.7 (43)

Old Paradians Goals: A. Asdagi 2, S. Rehlicki 2, T. Gibbons, A. Mascia Best: D. Strantzen, A. Cunningham, S. Rehlicki, A. Posterino, R. Licciardi, J. Monro Bulleen Templestowe Goals: D. Follacchio 3, A. Samie 3, G. Chivers, D. Dakin, D. Voglis Best: D. Voglis, S. Pallozzi, A. Tehan, d. Raneri, L. Costa, A. Verga Best on Ground: David Voglis (Bulleen Templestowe)

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Division 3

In a 12 team competition with only 18 home

UHS-VU were the third best side of the year,

and away rounds and a final five, the season

but at one stage mid-season they looked like

would be defined by who could maximize

they would drop out of the five altogether.

the fixture they were assigned for in 2012.

Fortunately they re-discovered their touch

It was the men from the bush, the Yarra

and made it to a preliminary final. Ultimately

Valley Old Boys that were best equipped as

they and indeed the rest of the competition

they lead the competition all season only to

were just a little off the pace of the grand

falter momentarily in the Second Semi Final

finalists. Russell Matthews won UHS-VU’s best

before re-gathering to take the Division 3

and fairest.

Premiership from Ivanhoe.

Aquinas and Kew had some good wins

The Bushrangers were the dominant side

throughout the season – Kew beat Ivanhoe

of the section and they displayed all that

in the same game as Ash Close kicked his

dominance in the Grand Final against Ivanhoe

100th - but there were also some losses that

Amateurs. A fortnight earlier, Ivanhoe had

they probably regret. In a final five where you

turned the competition on its head by sending

finish fourth or fifth you really need everything

Yarra Valley via a longer route to promotion

going right come September in order to

and a chance at glory. By half time in the big

make a push for promotion like the Monash

game it looked as though we were in for a

Gryphons managed 12 months earlier. Kew

repeat of the Second Semi Final, Ivanhoe lead

had Andrew Brazzale who kicked many goals

a tight contest. At three quarter time there

including a bag of 12 one afternoon, and

was still plenty to do but Ivanhoe failed to

Aquinas had quality players like Leigh Toomey

score as Yarra Valley kicked 11 unanswered

at their disposal but both clubs fell short in

goals to claim the premiership by a massive

September. Ethan Roberts picked up the best

83 points.

and fairest for Kew whilst Jack Price won the

Sam Collie won the best on ground medal

award for Aquinas.

and the Yeo’s both kicked five goals on the

The best of the rest was Elsternwick. Never

day. For Ivanhoe it was a season with much to

an easy ground to travel to, the second oldest

celebrate. Their captain, Paul Harris, won the

club in the competition celebrated some fine

Hutchinson Medal as the competition’s best

wins in 2012 and the club’s production line

and fairest and their young forward Ashleigh

of Mahony’s continued with Craig notching

Close was the only player to kick a century

his 300th senior game for the club to become

of goals in the entire VAFA competition and

the fourth Mahony to reach the milestone.

he achieved this in round 16 of the season.

Unfortunately for Craig they will have to wait

Harris also claimed the club best and fairest

for next year to add to the tally as the Wicks

and Yarra Valley’s best and fairest was won

finished outside the five. Lachlan Bedingfield

by Damien Pagan in a cliffhanger from Sam

won the best and fairest.

Savage.

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

34

By half time in the big game it looked as though we were in for a repeat of the Second Semi Final, Ivanhoe lead a tight contest.

St Francis Xavier had a good year to consolidate its promotion by finishing seventh. Richmond Centrals finished on the same number of wins in eighth position and both clubs were in finals running at times. For the Centrals their best and fairest winner was Luke Walsh whilst Sam Burns was the leading vote getter at St

P Hutchinson Medal

Votes

Paul Harris

Ivanhoe

26

Ethan Roberts

Kew

23

Nicholas Rowland

UHS-VU

22

David Tremewen

Hawthorn

22

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

Ashleigh Close

Ivanhoe

21

117*

Albert Park managed to beat the teams

Aaron Thornton

Elsternwick

17

80

around them but struggled against the top

Andrew Brazzale

Kew

19

70

Rhys Kirk

UHS-VU

20

69

Justin Hunter

Elsternwick

17

Francis Xavier.

sides in 2012. A draw with Kew and a win against Aquinas showed they could match point loss to Hawthorn would have hurt just as much as the big loss to Yarra Valley. Justin Mahoney claimed the Falcons best and fairest.

Hawthorn had a season they would rather forget. A host of injuries at the start of the campaign was just the start, but it was the falsifying of information to the tribunal and resultant penalties that could have knocked the club down. The resolve of the club and

58 *Sharpshooter

it with finals standard opposition but a one

Yarra Valley Premiership Team B

D. Ricketts

D. Letson

G. Coutts

HB

D. Pagan

C. Beal

J. Trend

C

R. Little

S. Collie

J. O’Callaghan

HF

S. Savage

S. Donald

C. Hodgens

F

N. Pollard

R. Yeo

S. Yeo

R

J. Amos

M. Wines

R. Pollard

INT COACH

D. Vanderzeil, K. Moody, D. Hopper, J. Canham Rob Drew

graceful acceptance of the sanctions are to be admired. The competition’s integrity was upheld and confirmation of Hawthorn’s demotion to Division 4 for season 2013 was met with a series of wins. David Tremewen won the club’s best and fairest.

With Hawthorn’s demotion and the sortie of Rupertswood from the competition both Old Westbourne and Power House have had the luckiest of escapes in 2012. Power House is the first club to avoid relegation after finishing in 12th position with two and a half wins. Old Westbourne were just half a game ahead of them and also avoided the drop. Scott Kidd won the best and fairest for Old Westbourne and Darren Baker claimed Power House’s top honour.

35

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Results PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Yarra Valley

18

17

1

0

0

0

2336

1060

220.38

Pts 68

Ivanhoe

18

15

3

0

0

0

1784

1114

160.14

60

UHS-VU

18

12

6

0

0

0

1591

1327

119.89

48

Aquinas

18

12

6

0

0

0

1630

1518

107.38

48

Kew

18

11

6

1

0

0

1493

1146

130.28

46

Elsternwick

18

9

8

1

0

0

1777

1572

113.04

38

St Francis Xavier

18

7

11

0

0

0

1424

1560

91.28

28

Richmond Central

18

7

11

0

0

0

1328

1525

87.08

28

Albert Park

18

6

11

1

0

0

1424

1615

88.17

26

Hawthorn

18

5

13

0

0

0

1206

1851

65.15

20

Old Westbourne

18

3

15

0

0

0

1002

1982

50.55

12

Power House

18

2

15

1

0

0

1014

1739

58.31

10

Scribe’s team of the year B

K. Hayes (Elsternwick)

M. Cochrane (Kew)

D. Firman (Richmond Central)

HB

J. Butterfeild (St Francis Xavier)

J. Amos (Yarra Valley)

R. Foster(Aquinas)

C

C. Kingsford (Ivanhoe)

P. Harris (Ivanhoe)

S. Savage (Yarra Valley)

HF

A. Thornton (Elsternwick)

S. Donald (Yarra)

A. Brazzale (Kew)

F

S. Angus (Richmond Central)

A. Close (Ivanhoe)

D. Pritchard (Hawthorn)

R

L. Toomey (UHS-VU)

D. Tremewen (Hawthorn)

L. Bedingfield (Elsternwick)

INT

R. Fort (Ivanhoe), S. Burns (St Francis Xavier), J. Brick (Albert Park), D. Pagan (Yarra Valley)

Semi Final 1 Aquinas UHS-VU

8.0 4.4

14.1 7.8

16.3 12.19

17.9 (111) 15.24 (114)

Semi Final 2 Yarra Valley Ivanhoe

3.2 5.2

11.4 7.5

13.6 11.7

14.8 (92) 15.8 (98)

Aquinas Goals: S. Williams 6, J. Price 3, P. Jurkovsky 2, J. Perrett 2, M. Jess, L. Fringuelli, C. Willis, M. Niezen Best: M. Niezen, L. Toomey, S. Williams, M. Jess, L. McDonald, B. Burke UHS-VU Goals: R. Kirk 6, J. McDonald 2, S. Payne 2, C. Kelly, E. Pearson, T. O’Halloran, M. Temming, E. Clarke Best: M. Temming, G. Guest, J. McDonald, N. Rowland, R. Kirk, S. Payne

Yarra Valley Goals: R. Little 4, S. Donald 2, S. Yeo 2, B. Trend 2, S. Savage 2, C. Hodgens, J. O’Callaghan Best: B. Trend, S. Collie, J. O’Callaghan, S. Savage, D. Ricketts, D. Pagan Ivanhoe Goals: A. Close 5, L. Roberts 2, J. Harty 2, M. Lovell 2, M. Franich, M. Jacobs, B. Richardson, P. Walter Best: T. Williamson, P. Harris, P. Walter, M. Lovell, A. Close, J. Harty

Preliminary Final

Grand Final

Yarra Valley UHS-VU

2.3 3.3

6.4 4.7

16.8 6.9

25.10 (160) 9.10 (64)

Yarra Valley Goals: S. Savage 9, S. Donald 7, R. Yeo 3, S. Yeo 2, C. Hodgens 2, D. Vanderzeil, R. Little Best: S. Donald, S. Savage, S. Collie, R. Pollard, D. Hopper, D. Letson UHS-VU Goals: R. Kirk 5, R. Watts, T. O’Halloran, S. Payne, L. Habel Best: D. Pinney, S. Payne, G. Guest, T. O’Halloran, R. Kirk, R. Matthews

Yarra Valley Ivanhoe

0.4, 1.3,

4.8, 6.4,

19.20 (134) 7.9 (51)

Ivanhoe Goals: J. Harty 3, T. Williamson, B. Richardson, M. Lovell, A. Close Best: T. Williamson, P. Walter, G. Francis, L. Roberts, M. Jacobs, J. Harty Yarra Valley Goals: S. Yeo 5, R. Yeo 5, R. Pollard 3, R. Little 2, D. Pagan, S. Donald, M. Wines, S. Savage Best: S. Collie, S. Savage, M. Wines, G. Coutts, D. Letson, R. Yeo V.B. Zanin Medallist: Sam Collie (Yarra Valley)

Left: Chris Beal Yarra Valley OB Premiership Captain Right: Greg Coutts the veteran back-pocket was in the best

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

8.12, 7.9,

36

Division 3 reserves

PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

Yarra Valley

18

16

2

0

0

0

1916

690

277.68

64

Kew

18

16

2

0

0

0

1829

694

263.54

64

Ivanhoe

18

14

4

0

0

0

1614

797

202.51

56

UHS-VU

18

13

5

0

0

0

1562

1009

154.81

52

St Francis Xavier

18

11

7

0

0

0

1454

938

155.01

44

Aquinas

18

9

9

0

0

0

1348

1095

123.11

36

Albert Park

18

8

10

0

0

0

1238

1449

85.44

32

Richmond Central

18

7

11

0

0

0

1000

1426

70.13

28

Hawthorn

18

5

13

0

0

0

1064

1678

63.41

20

Power House

18

3

15

0

0

0

824

1703

48.39

12

Elsternwick

18

3

15

0

0

0

835

2047

40.79

12

Old Westbourne

18

3

15

0

0

0

683

1841

37.1

12

Yarra Valley Premiership Team

Grand Final

B

L. Grimwade

HB

T. May

A. Wingate

J. Cordwell

C

D. Perry

N. Pask

J. Hall

HF

M. Dunk (C)

B. Nicholas

D. Mills

F

N. Paton

B. Seeger

L. Gillies (C)

R

A. Russell

M. Fraser

D. Blewonski

INT

COACH

B. Harding

J. Harding

S. Creed, H. Cooper, S. Gillin, L. McCleary Ian Trend

37

Yarra Valley 4.2, 6.5, 8.9, 12.14 (86) Ivanhoe 1.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3 (21) Ivanhoe Goals: A. Horton, J. Brownell, M. Gleeson Best: J. Benson, B. Fleming, A. Horton, J. Brownell, S. Conley, T. O’Donnell Yarra Valley Goals: N. Paton 3, H. Cooper 2, J. Hall 2, D. Blewonski, B. Seeger, B. Nicholas, N. Pask, L. Gillies Best: A. Russell, J. Cordwell, D. Blewonski, N. Pask, T. May, D. Mills Best on Ground: Anthony Russell (Yarra Valley)

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Division 4

For much of the season the Division 4 race looked like a one horse race. South Mornington was cruising through the year and was on track to repeat the performance of Prahran Assumption and others of completing an undefeated season. Whilst the Tigers still won the Premiership they found the final weeks of the season tougher than the opening salvos of the campaign.

The Grand Final brought together South Mornington and Swinburne University who were the clear number one and two teams.

Swinburne had claimed a moral victory in round 18 in defeating the Tigers by a point but the result was reversed – albeit by only a goal – in the following week’s second semi final.

South Mornington was to be promoted for the first time in their history and Swinburne Uni would play a Preliminary Final against Eley Park Sharks. The Sharks had beaten first time finalists Point Cook in the first semi and were no match for the Uni side.

It was a tremendous grand final with Swinburne leading at every change but falling to a seven goal to three final quarter comeback from South Mornington to see the Tigers claim their first VAFA premiership by 15 points. Michael Clark was named best on the ground for South Mornington whilst Nathan Brodie won the club’s best and fairest in a premiership year. Jesse Albrecht could have kicked a ton had he played more games but won the competition’s goal kicking with 85 for the season.

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

For Swinburne they move to Division 3 with plenty of promise. Luck, fate or just losing to a better team on the day could be thrown up as reasons for the Grand Final loss. A lost premiership opportunity hurts, but there is enough talent in this outfit that should see them do well next season. Ben Higgins was top of the table of club votes for the season whilst the output of Jackson Manning and Kane Fitzpatrick was always reliable.

Eley Park Sharks were bitterly disappointed not to make the Grand Final and earn promotion, however, with the squad they have assembled they should be one of the favourites for the Division 4 title next season.

The club has fought manfully to remain in the competition and they now have great numbers and fantastic enthusiasm to succeed. Three of those talented players all finished in the top four of the Meehan Medal but David Bennett, Alastair Renshaw and Mitchell Saunders probably all took votes off each other. Bennett was named the club’s best for 2012.

Point Cook is a team on the move, finishing fourth in just their third year in the VAFA. They have an abundance of youthful talent out of their junior club with Jordan Lampi and his brother Jessi the pick of these. Jordan won the Meehan Medal and finished third in their best and fairest. However, Tristan Furr won the top club honour indicating the club has depth too.

North Brunswick and a revitalised Manningham Cobras threatened the top four at times but fell short by five wins which only demonstrated the chasm that existed in Division 4 this year. North Brunswick beat Manningham Cobras in round 18 by two points to beat them in to fifth but improvement will be needed from both clubs if they are to push to finals next season.

38

Whilst the Tigers still won the Premiership they found the final weeks of the season tougher than the opening salvos of the campaign.

The Cobras have mirrored their season of the year before and North Brunswick improved by one win so the ability to beat the top clubs is vital if either team is to play finals in 2013.

Steven Rose won the Manningham Cobras best and fairest whilst Davor Lucevic won the same award at North Brunswick.

West Brunswick could not bounce back after arriving in the section as a relegated side. Six wins was one more than the previous year but better things would have been expected from the Magpies. Former Meehan Medalist Bill Irving won the club best and fairest whilst Josh Melican had a good season.

Box Hill North managed to win five games in 2012 which equalled their efforts of the previous season. Daniel Penny polled the best in the Meehan Medal voting and also won the club best and fairest.

Mt Lilydale’s fall from grace continued as they finished ninth in Division 4 a year on from taking out the Division 3 wooden spoon.

The club is in a re-building phase and hopes to mount a charge back up the ladder and indeed the sections in the coming seasons.

Russell Strong took home the club’s best and fairest award.

OJ Meehan Medal

Votes

Jordan Lampi

Point Cook

David Bennett

Eley Park Sharks

23 18

Alastair Renshaw

Eley Park Sharks

18

Mitchell Saunders

Eley Park Sharks

15

Daniel Penny

Box Hill North

15

Jackson Manning

Swinburne University

15

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

Jesse Albrecht

South Mornington

16

85*

Daniel Penny

Box Hill North

18

61

Scott McPherson

Manningham Cobras

14

57

David Viola

Eley Park Sharks

19

52

Patrick Notaro

North Brunswick

15

48 *Sharpshooter

South Mornington Premiership Team B

M. Killen

N. Wheeler

S. Wright

HB

R. Kemp

M. Clark

N. Brodie

C

B. Price

J. Dade Bell

M. Heib

HF

J. Spencer

G. Pullen

M. Duff

F

R. Spencer

J. Albrecht

L. Hockey

R

S. Smith

L. Fitzsimmons

S. Cunningham

INT COACH

B. Williams, T. Mitchell, K. Gascoigne, K. Woodruff Mark Green

Round 16, 2012, almost four years to the day since their last win, Chadstone Football Club was able to mark down in ink their first win under the Chadstone name. Mt Lilydale was the club who will be linked with the fateful occasion as they succumbed at home to the Sinners by 20 points. Coach David Cafarella become a media darling for the week as the club celebrated in fine style. Keith Biggs was good enough to win the best and fairest and hopefully there are more wins ahead for Chadstone.

39

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Results PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

South Mornington

18

16

2

0

0

0

2230

926

240.82

64

Swinburne University

18

16

2

0

0

0

1899

1162

163.43

64

Eley Park Sharks

18

15

3

0

0

0

1892

1384

136.71

60

Point Cook

18

12

5

1

0

0

2076

1569

132.31

50

North Brunswick

18

7

11

0

0

0

1611

1528

105.43

28

Manningham Cobras

18

7

11

0

0

0

1408

1584

88.89

28

West Brunswick

18

6

12

0

0

0

1351

1523

88.71

24

Box Hill North

18

5

12

1

0

0

1534

2158

71.08

22

Mt Lilydale

18

4

14

0

0

0

1170

1843

63.48

16

Chadstone

18

1

17

0

0

0

975

2469

39.49

4

Scribe’s team of the year B

D. Barry-Maclauy (Chadstone)

N. Mauran (Swinburne Uni)

HB

S.Rose (Manningham Cobras)

M. Clark (South Mornington

N. Brodie (South Mornington)

C

L. Martin (West Brunswick)

J. Lampi (Point Cook)

B. Price (South Mornington)

HF

P. Notaro (North Brunswick)

S. McPherson (Manningham Cobras)

D. Penny (Box Hill North)

F

J. Manning (Swinburne Uni)

J. Albrecht (South Mornington)

D. Viola (Eley Park)

R

A. Renshaw (Eley Park)

T. Furr (Point Cook)

D. Sullivan (Manningham Cobras)

INT

M. Saunders (Eley Park)

D. Bennett (Eley Park), J. Dade-Bell (South Mornington), B. Higgins (Swinburne Uni), R. Strong (Mt Lilydale)

Semi Final 1

Eley Park Sharks Point Cook

6.6 5.4

9.13 9.7

15.20 10.9

22.29 (161) 14.11 (95)

Semi Final 2

South Mornington Swinburne University

2.3 0.5

4.8 3.6

6.13 6.8

9.17 (71) 9.11 (65)

Eley Park Sharks Goals: J. Edlich 4, S. Barry 4, D. Viola 4, D. Perkins 3, D. Bennett 2, G. Deacon 2, A. Peacock, Z. Khariwala, C. Marsiglio Best: M. Viola, D. Bennett, Z. Khariwala, D. Perkins, M. Corstorphin, C. Marsiglio Point Cook Goals: R. Munn 3, A. Marsh 3, J. Lampi 2, T. Wilson 2, M. Pozzuto 2, A. Auciello, J. Wallert Best: M. Pozzuto, J. Lampi, A. Auciello, P. Auciello, B. Cox, T. Wilson

South Mornington Goals: J. Albrecht 3, W. Spencer 3, L. Hockey, K. Woodruff, T. Mitchell Best: N. Brodie, S. Smith, T. Mitchell, M. Duff, M. Heib, J. Dade-Bell Swinburne University Goals: C. Kilmartin 4, J. Manning 2, M. Westland, M. Manning, A. Hyman Best: M. Lingham, N. Mauran, P. Wild, S. Fragiacomo, J. Manning, C. Kilmartin

Preliminary Final

Grand Final

Swinburne University Eley Park Sharks

4.5 2.6

7.8 5.8

14.12 5.10

19.19 (133) 6.11 (47)

Swinburne University Goals: C. Kilmartin 5, J. Manning 3, M. Westland 2, Z. Scrase 2, L. McManus 2, M. Leahy, D. Hassaballa, M. Lingham, B. Higgins, D. Manning Best: J. Brun, C. Kilmartin, A. Hyman, S. Fragiacomo, K. Fitzpatrick, M. Leahy Eley Park Sharks Goals: D. Bennett 2, J. Edlich, M. Viola, G. Deacon, K. Lindsay Best: M. Corstorphin, D. Bennett, T. Miller, J. Peacock, A. Peacock, M. Viola

South Mornington Swinburne University

3.5 6.1

4.7 7.7

7.15 10.8

South Mornington Goals: J. Albrecht 4, K. Gascoigne 3, B. Price 2, M. Clark 2, M. Heib 2, S. Smith Best: M. Clark, S. Smith, L. Fitzsimmons, K. Gascoigne, J. Albrecht, N. Brodie Swinburne University Goals: L. McManus 3, R. Lugg 2, M. Westland 2, J. Manning 2, C. Kilmartin 1, Z. Scrase 1, M. Leahy 1, M. Manning 1.

Best: S. Fragiacomo, D. Hassaballa, M. Westland, K. FItzpatrick, P. Wild, N. Mauran A.K. White Medallist: Michael Clark (South Mornington)

Left: Jesse Albrecht won the Div 4 goalkicking Centre: Kade Woodruff Right: Stuart Cunningham

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

14.17 (101) 13.8 (86)

40

Division 4 reserves

PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

South Mornington

18

16

2

0

0

0

2158

581

371.43

64

Eley Park Sharks

17

13

4

0

0

1

2020

864

233.8

56

Swinburne University

18

14

4

0

0

0

1797

800

224.62

56

West Brunswick

18

12

6

0

0

0

1800

655

274.81

48

Point Cook

18

10

8

0

0

0

1652

1390

118.85

40

North Brunswick

18

9

9

0

0

0

1097

1172

93.6

36

Box Hill North

18

6

12

0

0

0

1045

1596

65.48

24

Mt Lilydale

17

4

12

1

0

0

842

1555

54.15

18

Manningham Cobras

18

4

13

1

0

0

744

1996

37.27

18

Chadstone

18

0

18

0

0

0

327

2894

11.3

0

Swinburne University Premiership Team

Grand Final

B

D. McKail

A. Carroll

S. Kilpatrick

HB

N. Blyth

B. Cairns

R. Hurst

C

M. Dunn

J. Loring

S. McGrath

HF

M. Hodgson

M. Bonomi

T. Elliman

F

B. Gittus

O. O’Keeffe

T. Kennedy

R

J. Bradley

A. Pettifer

D. Dore

INT

COACH

L. Morrison, L. Dalton, J. Coy, T. Bugle Shane Kelly

Swinburne University 2.2 4.5 6.7 10.8 (68) South Mornington 3.5 6.9 7.13 7.16 (58) South Mornington Goals: K. Debernardi 2, R. Tyrrell ,J. Dowsett, S. Duffield, R. McConville-Brain, M. Mitchell Best: J. Dowsett, Z. Pearton, R. McConville-Brain, K. Debernardi, C. Benton, D. Woodruff Swinburne University Goals: T. Kennedy 2, M. Bonomi 2, C. O’Keeffe 2, L. Morrison 2, A. Carroll, D. Elliman Best: A. Pettifer, D. Dore, R. Hurst, D. Elliman, L. Morrison, J. Loring Best on Ground: Aaron Pettifer (Swinburne University)

41

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Under 19

The U19 season commenced back in April

St Bernards and St Bedes/Mentone Tigers

with teams spread across five sections. The

filled out third and fourth respectively whilst

difficulty in assessing a form of a team in any

the seventh placed Old Scotch produced the

given year tends to depend on the number of

Newbury Medallist for the competition’s best

top age players who get their second year at

and fairest in Conor O’Beirne.

U19 level and the talent of the players who

In Section 2 it was the finals bolter in Caulfield

have just finished school arriving at their club

Grammarians against the long time favourites

and mingling with senior players for the first

Old Brighton in the Grand Final also at Central

times in their football lives.

Reserve. Caulfield had won through from

If the past four years was anything to go by

fourth place defeating Werribee Districts and

then in U19 Premier you can bank on De La

St Kevins on the way to a potential fairytale

Salle and Old Xaverians to be there at the

conclusion to 2012. It wasn’t to be as Old

pointy end of the season. That is exactly what

Brighton monstered the Fields in the Grand

happened in this year’s decider played in

Final to claim the premiership by 125 points.

front of a huge crowd at Central Reserve. De

Old Trinity were the best in the section and

La Salle reversed their second semi final loss

their player Emerson Satur claimed the

to Xavs and the result from the 2011 decider

McTaggart Medal as the competition best and

to run out winners by 40 points. It was De La’s

fairest.

seventh Grand Final in a row at this level and

The Section 3 decider was one for the ages

this was their fifth premiership tilt in that time.

as Mazenod and Collegians shared 12 goals in

It was a brilliant game of under age football

the final quarter and the match was decided

and a great advertisement for amateur

with a kick after the siren. Mazenod had

football confirming the belief that this is the

levelled the scores with 14 seconds to go,

premier U19 competition in Australia. Hugh

but from the next centre clearance the ball

Nicolson won the best on ground medal

found its way onto the chest of Nick Blackney

in the Grand Final with four goals and the

of Collegians 30 meters from goal. As the

competition’s leading goal kicker Charlie Haley

siren sounded, Blackney knew that any score

also had four for the game.

would do. There was never any doubt as he kicked truly and Collegians won the Grand Final by a goal amidst scenes of delirium and devastation in equal measure. Northern Blues

De La Salle Premiership Team B

L. Wood

D. Convery

J. Fisher

HB

S. Brooks

J. Bull

M. Stizza

C

S. McGraw

B. Wilson

L. Barda

HF

H. Nicholson

O. Persson

M. Hamilton

F

C. Haley

M. Howard

S. Gotch

R

M. Johnson

H. Haley

J. Mattiske

INT COACH

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

H. Ramsey, J. Gava, J. Terrell, O. Purton-Smith Michael Brown

42

Results PREMIERSHIP LADDER

and Old Camberwell finished third and fourth with Tom Schipper of Old Camberwell winning the Brown Medal for the competitions best and fairest.

Old Geelong had a good year as a club with only their senior team failing to make a grand final but that could be amended in years to come with the talented crop of U19 players coming through. The U19 North premiership was secured by OGs against a gallant Williamstown CYMS at Trevor Barker Oval by just eight points. The win was highlighted by the comeback from five goals down for which they can thank Karey Taylor who kicked six goals to half time which was enough for him to claim the best on ground medal. Ivanhoe who were favourites for the premiership were bundled out in straight sets from top

P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Old Xaverians

18

17

1

0

0

0

2095

947

221.22

68

De La Salle

18

15

3

0

0

0

2132

893

238.75

60

St Bernards

18

14

4

0

0

0

1669

1051

158.8

56

St Bedes/Mentone Tigers

18

11

7

0

0

0

1908

1173

162.66

44

Old Melburnians

18

9

9

0

0

0

1394

1541

90.46

36 36

University Blues

18

9

9

0

0

0

1359

1576

86.23

Old Scotch

18

7

11

0

0

0

1424

1501

94.87

28

Beaumaris

18

5

13

0

0

0

1059

1805

58.67

20

Fitzroy

18

2

16

0

0

0

911

2057

44.29

8

University Blacks

18

1

17

0

0

0

787

2227

35.34

4

Grand Final

De La Salle 5.2, 8.5, 9.6, 15.10 (100) Old Xaverians 2.2, 3.5, 7.5, 9.6 (60) De La Salle Goals: H. Nicholson 4, C. Haley 4, J. Howard 3, B. Wilson, J. Bull, J. Fisher, S. Gotch Best: H. Nicholson, B. Wilson, J. Fisher, S. Brooks, J. Mattiske, s. McGraw Old Xaverians Goals: M. Margin 2, R. Ralph 2, J. Close, N. Sharkey, T. Williams, C. Woodley, L. Pirrie Best: L. Denton, S. Franklyn, J. Anderson, H. Batten, J. Skene, J. Close T.A. Johnson Medallist: Hugh Nicholson (De La Salle)

CR Newbury Medal

Votes

Conor O’Beirne

Old Scotch

14

Justin De Steiger

Old Melburnians

13

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

Charlie Haley

De La Salle

17

76*

Steven Berengo

Old Xaverians

17

59

Robert Ralph

Old Xaverians

20

54 *Sharpshooter

spot and Therry Penola rounded out the four. Nic Holdsworth of the CYs claimed the competition best and fairest for the section.

There must be something in the water at Parkdale Vultures as this year was all about premiership glory. The seniors triumphed a week later but perhaps they were inspired by the eorts of their younger mates who won the U19 South premiership over De La Salle Gold. The celebrations commenced early in the last quarter as the margin extended beyond the reach of a comeback. It The final margin was 45 points with Lewis Emerson a stand out best on ground with his seven goals. Peninsula were knocked out in the Preliminary Final but provided the competition best and fairest winner in Cameron Macaulay and finishing fourth were St Bedes/Mentone Tigers.

Andrew Leonard

43

Pts

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Under 19 section 2

PREMIERSHIP LADDER Old Brighton St Kevins Werribee Districts Caulfield Grammarians Old Haileybury Old Trinity Old Carey Marcellin

P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

18 18 17 18 18 18 17 18

15 13 11 11 8 7 4 2

3 5 6 7 10 11 13 16

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0

1458 1567 1414 1367 1367 1020 1147 918

760 962 1138 1057 1311 1302 1853 1875

191.84 162.89 124.25 129.33 104.27 78.34 61.9 48.96

60 52 48 44 32 28 16 8

Old Brighton Premiership Team B HB C HF F R INT COACH

Grand Final

Old Brighton 6.1, 14.7, 18.12, 21.16 (178) Caulfield Grammarians 1.2, 2.3, 3.4, 6.10 (46) Old Brighton Goals: C. King 5, M. Tregear 4, J. Pascoe 3, H. Graham 3, L. Otto 3, M. Pascoe 2, T. Jones 2, N. Hellyer 2, J. Knight 2, H. Johnson Best: R. Naughton, C. King, J. Pascoe, T. Hamilton, T. Jones, L. Healy Caulfield Grammarians Goals: J. Small 3, N. Tonkin, D. SIimic, S. Hood Best: C. Logan, L. Holmes, J. Rogers, J. Small, A. Burtsin, D. Dickson

C. Hardgrave T. Hamilton R. Kiley R. Naughton D. Verney L. Healy L. Otto T. Jones D. Robinson M. Pascoe C. King M. Delaney J. Knight M. Tregear H. Graham W. Johnston J. Pascoe N. Paine-Ellis H. Johnson, N. Hellyer, H. Carlson, J. Moffitt, P. Sands, S. Zaia Adam Pirrie

GW McTaggart Medal

J.A. Miles Medal: Jordan Pascoe (Old Brighton)

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

Emerson Satur

Old Trinity Grammarians

22

Matthew Mitchell

Old Haileybury

18

69*

Jordan Cellini

St Kevins OB

21

Michael Tregear

Old Brighton

20

Votes

66 *Sharpshooter

Under 19 section 3

PREMIERSHIP LADDER Mazenod Northern Blues Collegians Old Camberwell PEGS Old Xaverians Ormond St Bernards

P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

18 17 17 18 18 17 15 16

14 13 13 11 6 5 4 1

3 4 3 7 12 12 11 15

1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1

1546 1854 1449 1482 1073 1051 897 807

918 919 880 1052 1232 1660 1814 1834

168.41 201.74 164.66 140.87 87.09 63.31 49.45 44

58 56 54 44 24 24 20 8

Collegians Premiership Team B HB C HF F R

Grand Final

Collegians 2.2, 4.10, 8.13, 13.16 (94) Mazenod 1.5, 4.7, 6.10, 13.10 (88) Collegians Goals: A. Fahie 2, T. Varigos 2, W. Pocknee 2, N. Blackney 2, L. Apted 2, S. Madeira, H. Pool, E. Cattell Best: E. Cattell, N. Blackney, L. Apted, A. Fahie, W. Pocknee, S. Hobbs Mazenod Goals: Louis Greco 5, JP Malietzis 2, Nick Jook 2, Lachlan Mann 2, Luke Greco 1, Hassan 1.

Best: Louis Greco, Patrick Flannigan, J P Van Rensburg, JP Malietzis, Jake Davis, Lachlan Mann

M. Schure T. Cantwell R. Jesaveluk M. Yates S. Hobbs A. Fahie (C) M. Newton L. Apted E. Cattell T. Phillips W. Pocknee S. Sabbatucci H. Hawkins N. Blackney T. Varigos T. Goodman H. Pool S. Madeira M. Dockery, W. Hayes, C. Regan, O. Whitehead, S. King, M. Griffin Rob Ferguson

INT COACH

T.M. Lyon Award: Elliot Cattell (Collegians)

IA Brown Medal

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

Thomas Schipper

Old Camberwell Grammarians

17

Sam Hibbins

Collegians

18

63*

Sandon McCann

PEGS Football Club

12

Louis Greco

Mazenod

19

41

Jay Himat

Old Camberwell Grammarians

12

Jake Powell

Northern Blues

17

Votes

41 *Sharpshooter

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

44

Under 19

north

PREMIERSHIP LADDER Ivanhoe Williamstown CYMS Old Geelong Therry Penola La Trobe University MHSOB AJAX Emmaus St Leos

P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

18 15 18 18 17 16 3 8

14 9 12 10 6 1 1 0

3 5 5 7 10 14 2 7

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1

0 3 0 0 0 2 0 0

1636 1568 1443 1533 1218 1115 214 274

722 1024 1001 1018 1283 1768 519 1688

226.59 153.12 144.16 150.59 94.93 63.07 41.23 16.23

60 52 52 44 28 16 4 4

Old Geelong Premiership Team B HB C HF F R INT COACHES

Grand Final

Old Geelong 1.1, 6.2, 9.8, 10.14 (74) Williamstown CYMS 5.7, 5.10, 6.12, 9.12 (66) Old Geelong Goals: K. Taylor 6, W. Sloss, H. Byrne, A. De Fegely, S. Hughes Best: K. Taylor, C. Burbury, R. Kemp, W. Sloss, H. Byrne, B. Yeo Williamstown CYMS Goals: S. Davis 4, M. McLaughlin 2, J. Dawson, R. Joy, Y. Hemphill Best: S. Davis, N. Holdsworth, C. Matheson, S. McVernon, R. Ackerly, P. Cutajar-Miloser

H. Bayliss C. Burbury B. Yeo W. Lugg C. Fisher B. Keys W. Holmes R. de Crespigny A. de Fegely (C) G. Macdonald R. Kemp R. Vocale S. Hughes K. Taylor J. Grimshaw C. Jordan W. Sloss H. Byrne C. Heal, J. Habla, O. Robinson, M. Ryan, C. Barham, G. Morrison Dan O’Brien & Simon O’Brien

P.J. Harris Medallist: Karey Taylor (Old Geelong)

VAFA Best & Fairest Medal

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

Nic Holdsworth

Williamstown CYMS

19

Jai Swainger

Ivanhoe

16

60*

Dylan Craig-Darroch

Ivanhoe AFC

14

Karey Taylor

Old Geelong

19

Henry Byrne

Old Geelong

14

Votes

65 *Sharpshooter

Under 19

south

PREMIERSHIP LADDER De La Salle Parkdale Vultures Peninsula St Bedes/Mentone Tigers St Mary’s Salesian Monash Blues Hampton Rovers Beaumaris

P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18

15 14 14 11 8 5 3 1

3 4 4 6 10 12 15 17

0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

2088 1894 1909 1747 1606 1210 655 528

807 896 996 1260 1528 1533 2012 2626

258.74 211.38 191.67 138.65 105.1 78.93 32.55 20.11

60 56 56 46 32 22 12 4

Parkdale Vultures Premiership Team B HB C HF F R INT COACH

Grand Final

J. Stent-Powell J. Crowley M. Nixon A. Knight C. Dillon S. Chitty (C) J. Everest L. Emerson C. Stielow S. Hendricks L. Morgan D. Glascott D. Ballard J. Boland C. Welch T. Fenwick M. O’Donnell J. Kovarik N. Rayner, J. Dunstan, M. Podesta, A. McNeil, M. Dickie, J. Russell Luke Borella

Parkdale Vultures 2.2, 6.3, 12.5, 18.6 (114) De La Salle 1.3, 3.6, 4.9, 10.10 (70) Parkdale Vultures Goals: L. Emmerson 7, C. Dillon 2, J. Boland 2, J. Russell 2, M. Dickie , D. Glascott, C. Welch, L. Morgan, J. Dunstan Best: L. Emmerson, D. Glascott, M. Nixon, S. Chitty, C. Dillon, A. Knight De La Salle Goals: J. Hanley 4, M. Hogan 2, J. Tsoutsouras, D. Grant, P. Hatch, K. Wallis Best: S. Harrington, J. Hanley, J. Duhau, M. Pennacchia J.S. Simpson Medallist: Lewis Emmerson (Parkdale)

VAFA Best & Fairest Medal

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

Cameron Macaulay

Peninsula OB

22

Jordan Young

St Bedes/Mentone Tigers

16

67*

Lewis Emmerson

Parkdale Vultures

19

Lewis Emmerson

Parkdale Vultures

16

51

Luke Morgan

Parkdale Vultures

19

Votes

45

*Sharpshooter

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Under 18 PREMIERSHIP LADDER P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

Oakleigh

18

11

4

0

3

0

1291

594

217.34

56

Werribee Districts

18

12

4

0

2

0

1398

747

187.15

56

Rupertswood

18

9

6

0

3

0

1032

698

147.85

48

St Bernards

18

10

6

0

2

0

1174

799

146.93

48

St Mary’s Salesian

18

10

6

0

2

0

1169

847

138.02

48

Williamstown CYMS

18

2

13

0

3

0

479

1577

30.37

20

UHS-VU / Flemington

18

0

15

0

3

0

410

1691

24.25

12

Oakleigh Premiership Team B HB C HF F R INT COACHES

Grand Final

J.Benoiton S.Murray N.Guerin A.Deneys A.Seremalis T.Minchin M.Tate J.Lever A.Mase J.Davidson Z.Pearce-Thomas L.Gillard T.Michael A.Cloke B.Still M.Aranha L.Daidone L.Gogis L.Lloyd, M.Jackson, R.Khan, A.Weymouth, B.Grizzell, J.Cook Ash Lever

Oakleigh 3.2, 6.6, 14.10, 19.12 (126) Werribee Districts 3.2, 3.3, 5.6, 8.8 (56) Oakleigh Goals: A. Cloke 6, Z. Pearce-Thomas 3, A. Deneys 3, B. Still 2, R. Khan, J. Lever, M. Aranha, L. Gogis, M. Tate Best: A. Deneys, A. Cloke, M. Aranha, L. Gogis, J. Lever, M. Tate Werribee Districts Goals: Accaarito 2, Thomas 1, King 1, K Delaney 1, Smith 1, Kneazvic 1, O’Brien 1 Best: Stoios, O’Brien, Elliott, Christou, D Delaney, King.

Harry Overman Medalist: Aaron Cloke (Oakleigh)

VAFA Best & Fairest Medal

Leading Goalkickers

GP

Goals

Aaron Cloke

Oakleigh

25

Dane Thomas

Werribee Districts

18

65*

Taylor Bisognano

St Bernards

10

Aaron Cloke

Oakleigh

17

Stefan Piantella

St Bernards

10

Votes

Oakleigh Krushers claimed their second Under 18 Premiership in the competition’s four year history when they beat Werribee Districts in the Grand Final by 70 points.

The blond deadlocks of the Krusher’s Aaron Cloke are hard to miss on the football field as he won the best on ground medal for his six goals. This was added to the award for the competition best and fairest that he had already claimed.

Andrew Leonard

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

64 *Sharpshooter

46

Club XVIII There were two Club XVIII sections in 2012

Therry Penola’s Raymond Steer won the

with Section 1 consisting of 12 teams and

section’s

10 teams lined up in Section 2. The 12 team

his side were beaten by the rampant Old

competition in Section 1 meant that we saw

Geelong in the Preliminary Final. Richmond

the introduction of a final six for the first time

Cardinals rounded out the top four but

leading

goalkicker

award

but

in VAFA football. This ensured that all six

couldn’t get past the first semi final. The gap

finalists would therefore have to win three

to the rest of the competition outside the

finals to secure a premiership.

Old Xaverians were the standout side of the competition and indeed did not drop a game all year on the way to another premiership for the Crocs. A perfect season is one to

finalists was five games, however all teams will be looking to improve as they get an influx of new players who drop back to Club XVIII with the commitment to play one more season.

Top: Andrew Barrett (Co-Captain), Joe McGrath (Coach), and Duncan Parry (Co-Captain) Bottom: Nick Smith (Captain) and Andrew Catchlove (Coach)

cherish and James McDonald can certainly do that having left Sportscover Arena in August with four medals draped around his neck.

The big Croc forward won not only a premiership medallion that day but also won the best on ground in the Grand Final and prior to collecting those two medals he also collected the medals for the section competition best and fairest and leading goalkicker. A superb individual achievement.

Nevertheless it was the 26 players in red and black with green socks that won the title over Old Melburnians.

Old Melburnians were the second best team of the season and rightly made the Grand Final. The final six format of the section was also a success with the victorious finalist going according to the seedings and the best two teams made it to the decider having each played a game the week prior.

In Club XVIII Section 2 the premiers were Old Geelong over Hawthorn in a clash that was closely6 fought in the early stages before Old Geelong got on top and kicked clear finally winning by 53 points. It was the second runners-up performance in two seasons for Hawthorn and they will be disappointed having been the minor premiers and heaviest scoring side of the season.

Old Geelong’s Tom Waters was named best on the ground in the Grand Final whilst Hawthorn had the joint winners of the competition best and fairest playing for them. Nicholas Criticos and Constantinos Terzoglou tied the competition best and fairest count on 19 votes but couldn’t get their side over the line on the day.

47

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Club XVIII

section 1

PREMIERSHIP LADDER Old Xaverians Old Melburnians NOBS/ St Pats Prahran Assumption St Bernards De La Salle Ivanhoe Williamstown CYMS Monash Blues Fitzroy Old Ivanhoe Therry Penola

P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

15 13 15 15 14 14 15 12 15 14 7 15

14 11 12 10 9 7 6 4 4 1 1 1

0 2 3 4 5 6 9 8 10 13 6 14

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0

0 2 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 0

1952 1537 1089 1255 1346 1193 951 830 828 683 460 578

489 592 921 639 935 773 1267 1209 1221 1578 1193 1930

399.18 259.63 118.24 196.4 143.96 154.33 75.06 68.65 67.81 43.28 38.56 29.95

60 52 48 44 40 36 24 20 20 8 4 4

Best & Fairest

Votes

James McDonnell

Old Xaverians

24

Jason Storer

Prahran Assumption

23

Owen Webb

Old Melburnians

17

Leading Goalkicker

GP

Goals

James McDonnell

Old Xaverians

17

92

Hamish Christie

Noth Old Boys / St Patrick’s

15

60

Theodore Code

Old Melburnians

15

47 *Sharpshooter

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Grand Final

Old Xaverians 4.3, 6.10, 8.14, 14.16 (100) Old Melburnians 0.0, 2.3, 5.5, 5.6 (36) Old Xaverians Goals: M. Green 3, S. Chester 3, S. O’Brien 2, J. McDonnell 2, N. Silk, B. Perry, A. Barrett, C. McIntyre Best: D. Higgins, C. McIntyre, W. Martin, A. Barrett, D. Quinn, J. Moylan, J. McDonnell Old Melburnians Goals: E. Cooper 2, T. Code 2, A. Clark Best: M. Conomy, A. Tandy, J. Miller, H. Tomlinson, E. Cooper, S. Buultjens Best on Ground: James McDonnell (Old Xaverians)

48

Club XVIII section 2

PREMIERSHIP LADDER Hawthorn Therry Penola Old Geelong Richmond Cardinals Old Paradians Kew Bulleen Templestowe Richmond Snakes UHS-VU Eley Park Sharks

Grand Final

P

W

L

D

B

FF

F

A

%

Pts

15 15 13 15 14 15 14 14 15 14

13 13 11 11 6 5 4 3 3 3

2 2 2 4 8 10 10 11 12 11

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0

1886 1619 1650 1385 874 902 1027 745 603 632

645 578 639 717 1042 1323 1388 1582 1593 1828

292.4 280.1 258.22 193.17 83.88 68.18 73.99 47.09 37.85 34.57

52 52 52 44 24 20 16 16 12 12

Old Geelong 2.2, 4.7, 8.12, 13.17 (95) Hawthorn 2.2, 3.4, 4.5, 6.6 (42) Old Geelong Goals: J. Lewis 2, T. Claeys 2, T. Bayles 2, D. Kimpton 2, D. Creak, J. Graham, A. Carah, M. Costin Best: T. Waters, C. Gibbs, C. Waters, E. Harrison, M. Walkom, Z. Taylor Hawthorn Goals: G. Dellaportas, M. Wawrzynczak, A. Demetriou, C. Armatas, T. Demetriou, J. Bartzis Best: M. Murray, N. Criticos, A. Hachem, A. Stavridis, W. Ioannidis, J. Farah Best on Ground: Tom Waters (Old Geelong)

Best & Fairest

Votes

Nicholas Criticos

Hawthorn

Constantinos Terzoglou

Hawthorn

19

Raymond Steer

Therry Penola

17

Leading Goalkicker

19

GP

Goals

Raymond Steer

Therry Penola

17

90

Timothy Bayles

Old Geelong

18

79

George Dellaportas

Hawthorn

16

47 *Sharpshooter

49

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Representative football

Our representative program was one of the longest years we have had as we began preparations for the games against the EFL in pre-season prior to Christmas and the Under 18 tour of New Zealand completing the year in October. This year’s program began with our senior side again defeating the EFL followed by a mid year game against AFL Sydney at Blacktown where we triumphed again. The other teams to play in 2012 were the Premier C – Division 4 team, the Under 23 team, the Under 19 and the Under 18 team.

VAFA Senior vs. EFL Division 1 and 2 The Big V triumphed over the Eastern Football League by 12 points in a tough contest at Bayswater, reinforcing the reputation of the VAFA as the most successful representative outfit in our great game.

After struggling to kick straight early and then losing momentum, the VAFA team was struggling to stay in the contest. However a rousing three quarter time speech from coach Simon Lethlean and increased determination and running, the visitors thundered home to a memorable victory.

Coach Lethlean, a former Big V captain who had worn the famous jumper in many

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

important victories, praised the efforts of all, but highlighted the character and resilience of his team.

Julian Rowe was named best afield, while his Old Carey teammates Cam Howat, Lachy McQueen-Miscamble and newcomer James Rimington showed plenty of class too. NOBSPC newcomer Matt Firman also showed polish.

In the final term, needing big efforts from the forward line, Andrew Merrington and Matt Handley re-asserted their influence, while Nick Sautner broke Eastern hearts with two precision kicks as the clock went into time-on.

EFL 5.2 8.5 9.8 10.10 (70) VAFA 2.6 3.11 6.13 11.16 (82) Goals: Sautner 3, Colbert, Rimington, Merrington, Rowe, Bull, Handley, Howat, Firman Best: Rowe, McQueen-Miscamble, Firman, Dowd, Zimbachs, Shaw

50

VAFA Seniors

Front Row: Ben Hodges (Match day assistant), Kylie Da Fonte (Trainer), Jack Bull (Collegians), Lachlan Ferguson (Collegians), Justin Perkins - Vice Captain (Caulfield Grammarians), Simon Lethlean (Coach), Paul Wintle-Captain (St Bedes/Mentone Tigers), Lex Vasdekis (Assistant Coach), Trent Zimbachs (Collegians), Thomas O’Sullivan (Caulfield Grammarians), John Robinson (Time Keeper), Neeraj Kochhar (Physiotherapist) Second Row: Tim Noonan (Football Operations), Nigel Credlin (Director of Rep Football), Luke Gladman (Assistant Coach), Justin Madden (St Bernards), Jack Watts (University Blues), James Jorgenson (Collegians), Cameron Purss (Old Xaverians), Lachlan Hill (Old Scotch), Matt Handley (Old Xaverians), Daniel Silfo (Umpire), Brian Goodman (Team Manager), John Bromley (Trainer) Third Row: Daniel Strachan (Collegians), Justin Baxter (De La Salle), Nick Roberts (De La Salle), Ben Smithwick (Old Carey), Jackson Eade (Old Camberwell), Matthew Ball (Old Xaverians), Peter Summers (University Blues), Andrew Scott (Collegians), Will Tardiff (Collegians), Brad Rogerson (Old Xaverians)

VAFA under 23

Front Row: Kylie Da Fonte (Trainer), Matthew Dean (Werribee Districts), Lachlan Ferguson (Collegians), Bede Mahon - Vice Captain (University Blacks), Thomas O’Sullivan - Captain (Caulfield Grammarians), Ben Robertson (Coach), Jarryd Robertson - Deputy Vice Captain (St Bedes/Mentone Tigers), John Nicolopoulos (Old Haileyburians), Nigel Credlin (Director Of Rep Football), Michael Sholly (CEO), Nikki Phillips (Trainer), Lawrie Robertson (Chairman of Selectors) Second Row: Josh Singh (Physiotherapist), Mick Overman (Team Manager), Tim Cantwell (Assistant Coach), Anthony Carroll (Beaumaris), Jackson Eade (Old Camberwell), Nicholas De Steiger (Old Melburnians), Maxwell Van den broek (Old Scotch), Thomas Penberthy (Collegians), Patrick Ambrose (Old Xaverians), Thomas Carey (Old Xaverians), Andrew Sutherland (Assistant Coach), Tim Noonan (Football Operations) Third Row: John Robinson (Time Keeper), Bart Walsh (Banyule), Nicholas Jamieson (Old Scotch), Cameron Livori (PEGS), Alexander Singleton (St Bernards), Bas Simpson (Old Carey), Stephen Harris (Old Carey), Philip Edgar (St Kevins), James North (Old Brighton), Jacob Williams (De La Salle), John Edgar (Assistant Coach)

VAFA C-D4 vs EFL Division 3 and 4 In the curtain raiser to the senior game, the EFL Division 3-4 team defeated the VAFA Premier C–Division 4 team by 15 points in a highly entertaining contest. Banyule’s Adam Barclay booted eight goals for the Big V in a brilliant performance, but could not get his team over the line.

Skipper Gareth Snow won the toss for the VAFA and kicked with a slight breeze.

The VAFA held sway early, but might have registered a few more scores given their forward entries.

The EFL had an unhappy time in front of the

51

sticks but straightened up to dominate the middle part of the contest, booting ten goals to five in the second and third terms.

The last quarter was a shootout but the visitors couldn’t get closer than 9 points despite the mercurial Barclay and a supporting cast that did everything possible to steal the game.

EFL: 1.2 5.12 11.13 17.16 (118) VAFA: 3.3 6.7 8.10 15.11 (101) Goals: Barclay 8, Fletcher, Baranello, Boundy, Thomas, Keown, Crotty, Carlyle.

Best: Barclay, Snow, Grant, Tran, Fletcher, Blanch.

Simon Bennett - (Old Camberwell) playing for the Prem C - Div 4 against the EFL

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Representative football

VAFA Under 23 vs. WAAFL Under 23

VAFA Senior vs. AFL Sydney

Victoria, led by courageous and creative skipper Tom O’Sullivan, defeated WA by 26 points at Sportscover Arena. The diminutive midfielder from Caulfield Grammarians was a midfield general, directing traffic and winning contested ball in the clinches.

The Big V held off a determined AFL Sydney

Under cloudy skies but otherwise splendid conditions the Vics looked dangerous early and threatened to put the visitors away before half-time. The Victorian radar was uncalibrated as too many opportunities were missed.

conditions. The Vics wasted opportunities

team to win by 47 points at Blacktown International Sports Park in Sydney.

Paul Wintle (St Bede’s/Mentone Tigers) led the side as his brother Luke had done last year, as the twilight contest began under perfect with

errant

short

passing

before

Harboursiders kept up the pressure but could not garner sufficient return and the Big V, with some fine forward work from Lachlan

After half time the twin sharpshooters Max Van Den Broek (Old Scotch) and Jackson Eade (Old Camberwell) managed to convert regularly with both ending up with six goals.

The Big V midfielders always had options going forward whilst at the other end of the ground, the fast-leading and long kicking Ben Grace was a lively focal point for the visitors.

WA skipper Luke Conca was in everything, but the Big V ruck combination of Tom Penberthy and Nick De Steiger were dominant at the stoppages around the ground, setting up opportunities for the running fleet.

Ferguson, Jack Bull (both Collegians) and Tom

The third term decided the game and from there the Big V was largely untroubled except for a late flurry of goals from the Sandgropers that had the coaching staff concerned even if the players didn’t show it.

AFL Sydney didn’t go away. The stadium

Alex Singleton managed to halt the momentum when he grabbed a strong pack mark, played on and slotted it from 20 metres to ensure the reigning AAFC champion won the game.

At the final change, the Vics led by 21 points

VAFA: 5.5 7.13 13.15 17.16.118 WAAFL: 4.2 6.4 9.7 14.8.92 Goals: VIC: J Eade 6, M van den Broek 6, P Ambrose, J Nicolopoulos, T Penberthy, A Singleton, P Edgar Best: VIC: T O’Sullivan, L Ferguson, J Eade, B Walsh, N de Steiger, M van den Broek.

O’Sullivan led by 11 points at the first change.

Jackson Eade opened the second quarter with a goal but the local team came out stronger. A late surge after strong work by Cam Purss (Old Xaverians) and Shane Neaves (Old Scotch) in the ruck and Trent Zimbachs (Collegians) and skipper Paul Wintle in defence saw the Big V go to the half time break with a 19 point lead.

Pete Summers (Uni Blues) opened the third term with a goal inside a minute, but lights shone brightly, and so too did James Rimington, who found the ball consistently and created great run through the middle in the now treacherously slippery conditions. and with a strong finish, put the game beyond the Sydneysiders reach. With the midfield rampant, the Big V played hard uncompromising football applying pressure until the final siren.

Coach Simon Lethlean praised the endurance and commitment of his team, which had to work hard for the win. Lachlan Ferguson, making his Senior Big V debut, won the Spirit of the Big V award.

The VAFA is now 3-0 against AFL Sydney.

VAFA:

5.5

9.6

11.11

15.18.108

AFL Sydney: 3.4

6.5

8.8

8.13.61

Goals: J Watts 3, L Ferguson 3, J Eade 2, T O’Sullivan, J Bull, L Hill, J Madden, M Handley, P Summers, N Roberts Best: P Summers, J Bull, N Rimington, C Purss, P Wintle, L Ferguson

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Jack

Watts (Uni Blues) kicked the first goal. The

52

VAFA C-D4

Front Row: Marc Woolnough (Assistant Coach), Nikki Phillips (Trainer), Paul Groves (Parkdale Vultures), Tom Coghlan (Parkdale Vultures), Michael Christian - VC (Banyule), Dean Matthews (Coach), Gareth Snow – C (Old Mentonians), Zeke McCarthy – VC (Parkdale Vultures), James Musster (Prahran Assumption), James Tran (MHSOB), Kylie Da Fonte (Trainer), Shane Regan (Team Manager), Tim Noonan (General Manager Football Operations) Second Row: Leigh Fletcher (Hampton Rovers), Rob Chisholm (Ormond), Matthew Keown (NOBSPC), Paul Florence (Bulleen Templestowe), Thomas Paterson (Glen Eira), Warren Carlyle (Old Camberwell), Rees Thomas (Mazenod), Robert Mann (Mazenod), Sam Baring (Monash Blues), Simon Bennett (Old Camberwell), Michael Hazell (Assistant Coach) Third Row: Ben Hodges (Assistant Football Operations), Adam Barclay (Banyule), Jarrod Carlson (Marcellin), Jonathon Blanch (Marcellin), Sam Savage (Yarra Valley), David Boundy (Old Paradians), Bart Walsh (Banyule), Paul Baranello (Emmaus St Leos), Mitch Grant (Parkdale Vultures), Simon Considine (Marcellin), David Witchell (Assistant Coach)

VAFA under 19

Front Row: Kylie Da Fonte(Trainer), Rhys Moylan(St Bernards), Adam Caplan(AJAX), Alexander Croft(Collegians), Owen Lalor(Coach), Daniel Garside(St Bedes/Mentone Tigers), Zachary Ginies(St Kevins), Josh Taylor(St Kevins), Shaun Glennen(St Bedes/Mentone Tigers), Nikki Phillips(Trainer) Second Row: Tim Noonan(Football Operations), Jeffrey Jankie(Team Manager), Charlie Woodley(Old Xaverians), Simon Caven(St Bernards), Jack Langford(Banyule), Simon Harris(Old Carey), Jandre Slabbert(University Blacks), Brede Seccull(Old Haileyburians), Gabe Hamilton(Old Trinity), Luke Wintle(Assistant coach), Andrew Hayes(Assistant Coach) Third Row: Gavin Brown(Runner), Mick Lovejoy(Assistant Coach), Nic Daish(Old Melburnians), Josh Cowan(Mazenod), Thomas Garside(St Bedes/Mentone Tigers), Hernry Parkes(St Kevins), Jonathon De Pellegrin(Werribee Districts), Gene van den Broek(Old Scotch), Steven Scott(Oakleigh), Gerard Jackson(Runner/Assistant Coach), Pat Young(Physio) Absent: Ben Jarick(Old Brighton)

VAFA Under 19 vs. Worksafe VCFL Under 19

(Collegians) and Shaun Glennen (St Bedes / Mentone Tigers) had them within 4 points.

Dan Garside (St Bedes / Mentone Tigers) won the best from the VCFL coaches.

The U19 VCFL representative side won a tough contest at Sportscover Arena against the VAFA Big V team by 50 points.

However, it was the ability of the VCFL to run and carry into the breeze and kick a couple of late goals to earn an 11 point lead into the final term.

The VAFA were held goalless in the first and last quarters and that cost them. The VCFL kicked six unanswered goals in the final quarter to win 12.14.86 to 4.12.36 to take a lead in this current series of games 3-2.

In beautiful sunny conditions the VAFA wasted their use of the breeze in the first quarter to only manage four behinds.

A goal to Henry Parkes (St Kevins) in the second quarter against the flow of play was a good sign but the VCFL still led at half time by 20 points.

In a low scoring game the Ammos came out firing at the start of the third quarter. Goals to Gene Van Den Broek (Old Scotch), Alex Croft

53

The final quarter was dominated by the marking talls and particularly Matt Taberner from the VCFL who was the best forward from both sides all day. Taberner kicked three goals and was awarded the medal for best player by Owen Lalor and his coaching staff.

For the home side, Brede Seccull (Old Haileybury) was the most consistent performer all afternoon winning the best honours from his own coaching staff whilst

Worksafe VCFL U19 2.1, 4.6, 6.7, 12.14 (86) VAFA U19 0.4, 1.4, 4.8, 4.12 (36) Goals VAFA U19 : G. van den Broek 1, H. Parkes 1, A. Croft 1, S. Glennen 1 Best VAFA U19 : B. Seccull, D. Garside, J. De Pellegrin, G. Hamilton, A. Croft, J. Langford

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Representative football

VAFA Under 18 vs New Zealand Under 18 Game 1 The VAFA U18 side commenced its tour of New Zealand in the best fashion winning comfortably over the AFL NZ U18 side on Saturday by 81 points.

The game started in sunshine but being the windy city of Wellington the conditions deteriorated over the course of the contest to see the closing stages being completed in driving wind and rain.

The contest was played in a great spirit with players from both sides going hard at the ball and tackling ferociously.

This marks the first year that the Kiwis played as an under 18 team after previous years playing as an under 20 side against the VAFA’s under 18s.

Old Scotch’s Ed Walmsley led the VAFA’s goal kickers with three goals and a host of players bagged a couple of goals each.

Peninsula’s Jordan Pomeroy was named the VAFA’s best player on the day and he also managed a couple of goals.

The VAFA side shared the ball around with many players getting double figure possession counts.

VAFA 3.4 7.6 12.12 15. 14.104 AFLNZ 0.1 1.2 2.1 3.5.23 Goals - Walmsley 3, Sher 2, Pomeroy 2, Egglestone 2, Devereux 2, D’Andrea 2, Coots 1, Cerini 1.

Best Pomeroy, Sher, Egglestone, Dammenhayn, Hendricks, D’Andrea

VAFA Under 18 vs. New Zealand Under 18 Game 2 The VAFA U18 side won Game 2 of the series against AFL NZ U18s in Wellington by 61 points.

The conditions were a significant improvement on the previous match with only a slight breeze favouring one end of the ground which helped the VAFA to a blistering seven goal opening quarter.

AFL NZ was held scoreless for two quarters - the first and the third - when they kicked against the breeze.

VAFA under 18

Back: Damon Cerini (Rupertswood), Kyle Buchanan (St Mary’s Salesian), Edward Walmsley (Old Scotch), Matthew Burton (Werribee Districts), Kyle Duerden (St Mary’s Salesian), Nick Devereux (UHS-VU), Lachlan Jowett (St Bernards), Darcy Ryan (Therry Penola), Julian Dammenhayn (Kew), Jordan Pomeroy (Peninsula), Alex McDougall (Emmaus St Leos), Sean McVernon (Williamstown CYMS), Front: Nathan Bratby (Williamstown CYMS), Rhett Coots (Rupertswood), Brock Egglestone (Therry Penola), Adam LaRiccia (Emmaus St Leos), Anthony Carlus (Rupertswood), Stefan Piantella (St Bernards), Sam Bradford (South Melbourne Districts), Jack Cowell (Bulleen Templestowe), Sean Hendricks (Parkdale), Sam Sher (University Blacks), Ben Andrews (St Mary’s Salesian), Sam D’Andrea (St Bedes/Mentone Tigers),

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

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However with the breeze at their backs the Kiwis were able to take the game on and outscore their more experienced opponents in both the second and the fourth quarters.

The VAFA side was able to capitalise on the mistakes of the opposition with fast instinctive play, whereas the Kiwi build up was slower, with any turnover proving costly.

A survey of the players found that the VAFA boys had about 36,000 games more experience than their New Zealand opposition who combined, had played about 100 games of Australian football.

This didn’t stop the effort that was put in and the VAFA is proud of its four years of sending a team to New Zealand to help the development of the game there.

For the VAFA, the major goal kickers were Ed Walmsley (Old Scotch) who again kicked three, Sam Bradford (South Melbourne Districts) also kicked three whilst Alex McDougall (Emmaus St Leos) was the only other multiple goal kicker.

The VAFA’s best were Sam Sher (University Blacks), Jack Cowell (Bulleen Templestowe) and Walmsley.

Tom Maule put his coaching skills on the line taking the U18 team to New Zealand and he returns with the VAFA’s 100% record intact.

VAFA U18: 7.4 8.5 14.7 15.9.99 AFLNZ U18: 0.0 3.2 3.2 6.2.38 Goals: Bradford 3, Walmsley 3, McDougall 2, LaRiccia, Pomeroy, Carlus, Coots, D’Andrea, Duerden, Sher Best: Sher, Cowell, Walmsley, D’Andrea, Duerden, McVernon

Big V Club The Big V Club held its sixth annual lunch at the RACV Club on 22 July. Many heroes of past victories gathered to relive memories of playing together in the famous guernsey. The Club inducted three new Champions of the Big V. Hampton Rovers champion Doug Arnold was represented by three generations of Arnold’s at the lunch. After returning from the war as a fighter pilot, Doug captained the Big V each year from 1948 – 51 and was also captain of the All Australian amateurs in1950 and 1951.

North Old Boy and former AFL tribunal chairman Shane Maguire was the second player to be inducted a champion. Shane Maguire represented the Big V in 1969, 71, 74, 75 and was captain in 1976. He played for the All Australian Amateurs in-1971 and 1974 before being selected as the 1976 AAFC Carnival Captain. After retiring Shane was a Big V selector from 1981 to 1986. A magnificent contribution of nearly 20 years to the Big V. The final inductee was John Jones of Marcellin, who unfortunately couldn’t attend the lunch but was represented by his father Jack and brother Tony. John played from 1981 – 84 consecutively and was captain in 83 and 84. In 1982 he was selected as All Australian vice captain.

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Big V Legends • Bruce Bourne (Ormond) • Paul Considine (North Old Boys) • Simon Costello (University Blacks) • John Fisher (Kew) • Rob Fuller (Old Scotch) • Geoff Hibbins (Collegians) • Shane Murphy (De La Salle) • Jock Nelson (MHSOB) • Jim Peters (University Blacks) • Manson Russell (Old Scotch) Big V Champions • Norm Beattie (Coburg) • Rick Brockwell (Banyule) • Rohan Brown (Old Melburnians) • Brett Connell (Ormond) • Ian Cordner (Old Melburnians) • Tony Fellows (Thomastown) • Ian Gabraith (University Blacks) • Leigh Grant (Power House) • Peter Hutchinson (Power House) • Ken Jorgenson (Commonwealth Bank and VAFAUA) • Phil Kingston (Ormond) • Phil McLaughlin (Old Paradians) • Greg Wade (St Bernards) • Brian Goodman (VAFAUA) • David Hughes (Old Scotch) • Sam Birtles (Hampton Rovers) • Peter Slattery (Old Xaverians) • John Jones (Marcellin) • Shane Maguire (North Old Boys) • Doug Arnold (Hampton Rovers)

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

Winning Edge Club Championship Old Xaverians won the Winning Edge Club Championship for 2012 finishing just ahead of their Premier section rivals Collegians.

Ivanhoe Amateurs had a fantastic year as a club without tasting the ultimate success came third and Old Geelong were fourth.

Interestingly out of the top four clubs, Old Geelong were most successful with three

of their four contributing sides winning flags. Collegians were next best with two premierships whilst Old Xaverians and Ivanhoe went trophyless from their eligible sides. Points are awarded for recorded wins as follows: 4 points for a Senior win, 2 points for a Reserve win, 3 points for a U19 win and 1 point for a Thirds or Club XVIII win.

Seniors

Reserves

U19/U18

Thirds/Club XVIII

Total

Old Xaverians

56

26

51

17

150

Collegians

64

26

42

15

147

Ivanhoe AFC

60

28

48

6

142

Old Geelong

52

32

42

13

139

De La Salle OC

48

32

45

9.5

134.5 133.5

St Kevins OB

52

30

39

12.5

Peninsula OB

60

26

42

0

128

Old Brighton Grammarians

40

30

45

12.5

127.5

Mazenod

44

20

46.5

10.5

121

Parkdale Vultures

54

17

42

0

113

Club Warehouse Rising Star – Lachlan Ferguson Lachlan Ferguson had a brilliant season for Collegians. He capped it off by winning his second senior premiership for the club playing as a midfield forward. This year Ferguson was selected in the Senior, U23 and U19 VAFA representative sides. In the U23 match against the WAAFL he was one of the best handful of players playing through the middle of the ground. Against AFL Sydney, Ferguson was again in the best and also kicked three goals. He missed the U19 match through injury but nevertheless it was an outstanding achievement to be named in all three sides. A player to look out for, a career at the highest level is not out of the question for this young gun.

VAFA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

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Highlights 2012

•

Michael Hazell elected Vice President replacing the departing Tim Merrett who resigned in June.

• •

George Janko received Life Membership of the Association.

Blair O’Hara joins the VAFA as the new General Manager of Commercial Operations.

•

Andrew Leonard joins the VAFA as General Manager of Media and Communications replacing Michael Fitzgerald who left after two and a half years.

•

Former Old Melburnians player Sam Dunell makes his debut for St Kilda Football Club in the AFL after being promoted from the rookie list.

•

The Senior VAFA side defeats the EFL in a preseason match in March.

•

The VAFA U23 team defeats the WA Amateur team in June at Sportscover Arena.

•

The Senior VAFA side defeats AFL Sydney at Blacktown in Sydney in July.

•

The vote count for the seven senior sections is broadcast live on Inner FM breaking their best ever ratings.

•

Old Xaverians win the Winning Edge Club Championship.

•

Rebecca Brown is the first female to umpire in a Premier Section Grand Final as one of the two goal umpires.

•

Andrew Heffernan at 18 years old became the youngest person to field umpire a Premier Section Grand Final

•

Collegians win back-to-back Premier Section premierships for the first time since 1992-93 defeating Old Xaverians in the Grand Final.

•

Parkdale Vultures win back-to-back premierships by securing the Premier C flag against Fitzroy moving from Division 1 to Premier B in two seasons.

•

Parkdale Vultures and Fitzroy by winning promotion to Premier B have reached their highest level since being in the competition.

•

University Blacks win the Premier B premiership returning to Premier Section for the first time since 2008.

•

Beaumaris won promotion to Premier section for the first time in their history and in doing so become the first solely district club in the top section since Ormond in 1996.

•

Prahran Assumption secured promotion for the second year in a row by finishing runner up in Division 2.

•

South Mornington won their first senior VAFA premiership when they won the Division 4 flag.

•

Matt Keown won back-to-back LS Pepper Medals for North Old Boys / St Patricks for the best and fairest player in Division 1; he later captained his side to the club’s first senior premiership since 1982.

•

VAFA Coaches of the Year were: Senior – Mark Hibbins and Simon Arnott (Collegians), Junior – Michael Brown (De Le Salle).

www.vafa.com.au