Manager: Swan is fine, end of story

Collingwood's Dane Swan at this year's Brownlow Medal. Picture: Michael Klein. Source: Herald Sun

DANE Swan's manager Liam Pickering has dismissed suggestions that the Collingwood star has a lifestyle problem.

Pickering came to Swan's defence after there was a call this week for the 2011 Brownlow Medal winner to be sacked for alleged poor conduct during the off-season.

"There is no problem,'' Pickering told SEN today. "He (Swan) is across exactly what needs to be done. We've discussed it, we know where he is at, and we move on.''

AFL stars avoid drug strikes

Pickering said he had not asked Swan about the allegations that his off-field behaviour was seen as a serious issue at Collingwood, but he had spoken with the club.

"There wasn't a lot of facts to it,'' Pickering said of the call to sack Swan.

Asked whether he had specifically asked his player whether drugs were a serious issue for AFL footballers, he said: "Why would I? If you ask them, what do you think their response would be?

"You try to educate your players, but you trust their better judgment in a situation that they will understand the implications.''

Collingwood chief executive Gary Pert told the Herald Sun this week that illegal drug use among AFL players was one of the biggest problems in the game.

Picture gallery: Magpies hit the beach
 

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Lovett-Murray to play on

Nathan Lovett Murray charges through the middle. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

NATHAN Lovett-Murray has ended an agonising wait by finally putting pen to paper on a new one-year contract with Essendon.

Lovett-Murray is the last Bombers veteran to sign on for 2013, five weeks after David Hille committed and three months after Essendon played its final match for 2012.

He joins Hille, Alwyn Davey, Scott Gumbleton and Dustin Fletcher on one-year deals at Windy Hill.

The 30-year-old will line up for this 10th season after being selected at pick 27 in the 2004 rookie draft.

Bombers football manager Danny Corcoran said he was delighted Lovett-Murray was playing on.

"Nathan has been a great servant of the Essendon Football Club and we are very pleased that he will remain at our club next season," Corcoran said.

"His versatility and ability to play in a wide range of positions makes him a valuable member of the team, providing us with greater flexibility around the ground."

Corcoran said Lovett-Murray was also a leader in the indigenous community.

The Bombers have turned over almost a quarter of their list in the post-season, with servants Sam Lonergan, Henry Slattery, Ricky Dyson and Kyle Reimers among those delisted.

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Disgraced Crows CEO keeps job

The AFL bans Kurt Tippett for the first 11 games of 2013 while fining Adelaide Crows $300,000 and imposing draft sanctions.

Adelaide Crows CEO Steven Trigg speaks to the media at his press conference after the AFL Commission hearing at AFL House. Picture: Michael Dodge. Source: Getty Images

• Tell us: Have the Crows been dealt with fairly by the AFL?

ADELAIDE has decided to stick with chief executive Steven Trigg after his six-month ban from the AFL was discussed at a board meeting this morning.

Trigg received a $50,000 fine and a 12-month suspension suspension -- six of which are suspended for five years -- for his role in the Kurt Tippett affair involving draft tampering and salary cap breaches.

Trigg admitted concealing the illegal secret deals with Tippett for three years.

He will be replaced by chairman Rob Chapman for the six months of his ban.

The club will also stand by football operations manager Phil Harper, who received a two-month ban with four months suspended.

His role will be filled by list manager David Noble until he returns.

Both suspensions take effect on January 1.

The Crows board met today to discuss the next step after yesterday's marathon AFL Commission hearing and unanimously resoved to support Trigg and Harper returning to work with the club at the end of their suspensions.

"The board is united on this," chairman Rob Chapman said.

"All decisions of the board are based on putting the club first and ensuring the best overall outcomes for the club.

"We are entering a crucial period for the Adelaide Football Club, with critical decisions to be made, especially surrounding our move to Adelaide Oval, and we believe Steven is the best person to lead us through this period."

Mark Stevens: Slap on wrist for Crows

On the toughest day in Adelaide's 22-year history, the AFL Commission yesterday fined Adelaide $300,000 and stripped the Crows of their first and second-round picks in next year's draft. The penalties, listed in full at the bottom of this story, are effective from January 1.

The bans mean Trigg is barred from any role with any club until July 1, Harper until March 1 and Tippett cannot play for his destination club - likely premier Sydney - before their Round 12 match in 2013. The officials cannot be paid by the AFL or clubs during their suspensions.

Chapman - who revealed he had learnt of the incriminating third-party deals in Tippett's contract from Harper on October 13 - had warned that a lengthy ban on Trigg and Harper could result in their sacking.

But the club that this year forced former recruiting boss Matt Rendell to resign despite not having any rule breaches against his name has decided Trigg's role remains tenable. Rendell left the club in March over a racism row.

"That position back then with Matt was hard, it was hard for Matt and the club," Chapman said.

Dodgy deal the Tippett of the iceberg

"Steven's position is somewhat different. A whole different set of circumstances, a whole different set of reasoning and we'll be assessing all of that over the next couple of days in more detail.

"Ditto Phil (Harper). The club board will meet soon, I've already convened that. We'll decide on our structure of management in the short term to continue the strength and leadership of the Adelaide Football Club.

"You can rest assured we have been planning that for some time and are advanced in our thinking. As soon as a decision is reached, we'll be making that announcement as soon as possible."

Trigg refused to take any questions after reading out a prepared statement, citing "legal constraints".

Kurt Tippett leaves the AFL Commission with his legal counsel David Gallbally. Picture: Norm Oorloff Source: adelaidenow

Tippett left AFL headquarters without speaking.

Armed with its high-powered legal team, Adelaide yesterday arrived at AFL House offering guilty pleas to all nine charges - related to salary cap breaches and draft tampering - faced by its current and former officials.

Tippett - who remains free to move to the club of his choice, the Sydney Swans - also pleaded guilty to the two charges against him.

Tippett blames Crows for 11-week ban

Commission chairman Mike Fitzpatrick said it took into account the club's co-operation, guilty pleas and concession of its first two picks at this month's draft. He was also satisfied that despite keeping the Tippett deals secret for three years, the breaches were not "systemic".

"I want to send a message to all 18 clubs and all supporters around the country so that everybody understands our position," he said.

"Any club engaging in conduct prejudicial to the draft or a scheme involving payments to players in contravention of our rules will be penalised."

- Adelaide Crows fined $300,000 and stripped of their first and second round picks in the 2013 national draft.

- Tippett fined $50,000 and suspended for the 2013 pre-season and first 11 home and away games, with a suspended sentence for the remaining 11 home and away games.

- Steven Trigg fined $50,000 and suspended from any involvement in the AFL for the first six months of 2013, with a suspended sentence for the remaining six months.

- Former Crows football operations manager John Reid suspended from any involvement in the AFL for the first six months of 2013, with a suspended sentence for the remaining six months.

- Crows football operations manager Phil Harper suspended from any AFL involvement for the first two months of 2013, with a further four-month suspended sentence.

- with Scott Walsh

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Tippett hearing into ninth hour

Adelaide Crows are expected to be hit with a severe penalty by the AFL at today's commission hearing into alleged draft tampering and salary cap rorting.

Adelaide Crows chief executive Steven Trigg could lose his position at today's hearing. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: The Advertiser

AFL operations manager Adrian Anderson arrives at AFL House for the Commission meeting that will decide penalties for Adelaide and Kurt Tippett. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

AFL prosecutor Jeff Gleeson arrives. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

THE hearing into Adelaide and Kurt Tippett's salary cap breach has dragged into its ninth hour.

There is no sign of when a verdict might be reached.

The Adelaide Football Club's twitter feed has reported, "some time to go yet".

A large media contingent remains camped outside AFL House waiting for a verdict.

It had appeared the Crows' and Tippett's AFL hearing was drawing closer to an end after inaugural Crows chairman Bob Hammond left AFL House about 11.30am.

Hammond, also a former AFL commissioner, is understood to have appeared before today's league commission hearing as a character witness for club football operations manager Phil Harper.

The parties have been inside the closed hearing for more than seven hours after arriving shortly before 8am today.

Crows officials and Tippett's representatives made a back-door arrival at the league's Docklands headquarters as they tried to dodge the waiting media pack.

Adelaide officials - chairman Rob Chapman, chief executive Steven Trigg, football operations manager Phil Harper and former football boss John Reid - refused to answer questions as they attempted to slip in through a back entrance.

Tippett and his legal crew headed by top QC David Galbally also tried to avoid the cameras as they entered through the same door.

Several AFL bosses including Adrian Anderson and female commissioner Sam Mostyn began arriving through the front door from about 7.40am.

Speculation suggests the Crows and Tippett are simply bargaining with the AFL on penalties.

Tippett is rumoured to be facing a 12-match suspension while the Crows are expecting a $300,000 fine and a ban from the first two rounds of next year's draft.

Questions will be asked from all of the parties, mitigating factors will be presented on behalf of the Crows and then it is understood there will be an adjournment for the AFL Commission to deliberate.

The player at the centre of Adelaide's greatest crisis, Tippett, is expected to plead not guilty to the charges levelled at him.

The Crows will argue:

THEY have not broken the salary cap, which cost Carlton so dearly in its penalties from the AFL in 2002, when they were restricted in two drafts and fined close to $1 million.

PLEADING guilty to all of the charges before the club does, is not an admission of wilfully breaking the rules or seeking personal gain.

THE charges were brought upon them by themselves, but not necessarily in a wilful or sinister fashion.

The Advertiser also understands Reid, who by right did not have to front the hearing - he no longer works in the game - will be happy to take the fall for the transgressions that have transpired.

Crows insiders have quashed speculation Harper may be the fall guy.

It was also Reid's field in which the alleged salary cap breaches and draft tampering happened when the original Tippett contract was drawn up in late 2009.

The careers of Trigg and Harper at West Lakes are set to be decided tomorrow.

If they get suspended for more than six months by the AFL, their positions with the Crows will most likely be seen as untenable.

Less than that, it becomes a judgment call for the board.

Chairman Rob Chapman yesterday sent an email to all of the club's members promising each member they would be contacted by a club director to explain what has transpired once the matter has been finalised.

Where to? Kurt Tippett has a big decision to make. Source: Herald Sun

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Tigers promote Maric, Grimes

Ivan Maric became a fan favourite after joining the Tigers from Adelaide. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

RICHMOND ruckman Ivan Maric and injury-prone defender Dylan Grimes will help lead the Tigers under new skipper Trent Cotchin next season.

Chris Newman, who stepped aside as captain at the end of last season, has stood down from the leadership group.

Players and coaches voted on the new leadership structure during their training camp in Cairns this week.

The expanded leadership group also includes Cotchin, vice-captain Brett Deledio, forward Jack Riewoldt and midfielder Daniel Jackson.

Maric finished third in the Jack Dyer Medal after joining the Tigers from Adelaide.

Grimes has played just 17 senior games and faces an uncertain future after more surgery on his hamstring this week.

"Both players fully deserve their inclusion in the leadership group, for the respect they have within the club and the way they conduct themselves, both on and off the field," football manager Craig Cameron said.

"Dylan is an outstanding young leader and a fine example to the developing players on our list, and Ivan has made an enormous impact at the club in only 12 months."

Cameron said Newman would continue to be a leader regardless of any official position. He is the only member of the 2012 leadership group not to retain his position.

After four days of hard training in the Cairns heat, the Tigers have broken into groups and dropped in various locations across north Queensland to compete in an Amazing Race-style challenge.

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Eagle handed nightclub ban

FACING CHARGES: Eagle Murray Newman has been handed a nightclub ban following a grievous bodily harm charge. Picture: Faith Moran Source: PerthNow

YOUNG West Coast forward Murray Newman has been barred from entering any nightclub as part of renewed bail conditions granted during a court appearance on a grievous bodily harm charge.

Newman, 18, was charged after an incident earlier this month at the Library Nightclub in Northbridge which allegedly left a man with facial injuries so severe he needed surgery.

At Newman's first appearance in Perth Magistrates Court, lawyer Terry Dobson said he was not ready to enter a plea, as they were waiting on a report from Royal Perth Hospital detailing the alleged victim's injuries.

David Grace QC will make submissions on behalf of Newman at his next appearance.

Newman's bail was renewed, but with an alteration requested by West Coast chief executive Trevor Nisbett that Newman be allowed on licensed premises for AFL club business only.

He will not be allowed into any nightclub, and not allowed on any licensed premises after 11.30pm.

Newman also posted $10,000 bail with a $10,000 surety, and vowed not to contact or go within 50m of the alleged victim.

He will appear in court again in January.

The Eagles said at the time they were "bitterly disappointed" with Newman, who played four games in his debut season for the club, kicking three goals.

His off-season has not improved since being arrested and charged, being beaten by 44-year old John Worsfold in two 2km time-trials in the days after his arrest.

Worsfold later said the club was fully supporting Newman.

"He's not out there on his own. We're all supporting him and making sure we can help him through it all," he said.

"Obviously his future, in terms of his life, hinges on the outcome of this case and football's a small part of it."
 

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Lower, Bate train with the Dogs

Evasive outside runner with class and good goal sense.

Midfield wrecking ball Hrovat picks up possessions with ease and nearly every AFL club has shown interest in drafting him. Is he the next Sam Mitchell?

The goalkicking midfielder the Dogs desperately crave. Put serious work into his contested footy work this season.

Nick Lower could be heading to the Dogs. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

THE Western Bulldogs could strengthen their back half with delisted Fremantle defender Nick Lower, who trained under coach Brendan McCartney this morning.

Former Dee Matthew Bate, who the Dogs targeted in last year's trade period, also trained at Whitten Oval today.

Lower is a big chance to win a senior listing at the Dogs at the December 11 pre-season draft.

>> VIDEO PLAYER ABOVE: Pick Me videos of three prized Dogs draft picks

The 25-year-old was unlucky to be cut by the Dockers, with sources close to Lower tipping he would have been safe if Adam McPhee had announced his shock retirement before the delisting was made.

Lower played three games in an injury-hampered 2012 season, taking his career tally to 42 games.

He hit a major form spike at the back end of 2011, racking up 37 touches against Collingwood in a career-best effort.

Lower is considered the front-runner to land at the Dogs, with the club expected to use one selection in the pre-season draft and one in the rookie draft.

Dog draft pick on fast track to success

"We won't rule out taking at least one mature-age player," Dogs recruiter Simon Dalrymple said.

The Dogs offered a second-round pick for Bate last year but were told only pick No. 17, ultimately used on hard-nut Clay Smith, would satisfy the Dees as the deal broke down.

Bate was axed by Mark Neeld as part of a major Melbourne clean-out at the end of the season.

Champion VFL onballer Ben Duscher is also training at the Dogs and remains close to assistant coach Shannon Grant.

Duscher, who captains Bendigo Gold where Grant coached from 2010-11, is one of the prime second-tier midfielders and has drawn AFL interest the past two years.

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Jurrah keen to grab Port lifeline

Controversial former Demons player Liam Jurrah attends his first training session with Port Adelaide, in the hope of being picked up in the pre-season and rookie draft.

Liam Jurrah arrives at the Port Adelaide Football Club for a trial training run. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

TROUBLED former Demons star Liam Jurrah has passed his first test at Port Adelaide.

The former Demon has this morning reported to training in good physical condition, defying reports that he had stacked on the weight since walking out on Melbourne in August.

Jurrah - trying to revive his AFL career with the Power via the pre-season and rookie drafts - arrived at Alberton at 7am alongside the club's Aboriginal Employment and Engagement Manager Paul Vandenbergh.

He then took to the track with the rest of the Power squad at 8.45am and cut a streamlined figure in his new predominantly black Port training gear.

Jurrah completed warm-up drills, laps of the oval and a mini "keepings-off'' football game before the media were kicked out of the closed training session.

Jurrah's training session in pictures

The only player to wear a cap at the session - conducted in searing heat - Jurrah struggled to get hold of the ball in the fast-paced, end-to-end game.

He was puffing noticeably at the end of the drill but looked to be enjoying his new surroundings.

Club officials say he is "extremely keen'' to resurrect his 36-game, 81-goal career.

New Port coach Ken Hinkley refused to guarantee Jurrah a gig at the club next year but said he would be given every opportunity to push for a senior list or rookie spot.

Former Bomber Brent Prismall appears to be ahead of Jurrah in the battle to be selected at the pre-season draft, leaving two rookie positions available.

Hinkley said he had spoken to Jurrah - who has been living in Adelaide with family since quitting the Dees and being embroiled in off-field drama - twice in the past week.

"And he's really excited about getting an opportunity to show that he can play AFL football still,'' Hinkley said.

"We don't doubt that he can play the game, we've just got to make sure that he's physically OK to play because he has had some significant injuries in the past 12 months (ankle and wrist).

"The fact that he's turned up here today in a new environment to train - and I would imagine he knows there's  some scrutiny coming his way - says his focus is pretty right.''

Hinkley - who denied the club had offered Prismall a two-year contract - said 24-year-old Jurrah had to make every post a winner in his two weeks of training at Port before the December 11 drafts to push his case for selection.

He said the club would also do its homework on Jurrah's off-field status, given he is due to face an Alice Springs court hearing in March to answer alleged aggravated assault charges.

"All of those things you've got to make good decisions about,'' Hinkley said.

"We as a club would be making sure we knew everything we need to know about any player because it's our responsibility to get the right people into the club.

"I need to talk to him (Jurrah) about his football stuff and our people in list management need to make sure all the other stuff is ticked off.''
 

Port coach Ken Hinkley watches as Liam Jarrah stretches before his first training session. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

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Vanstone joins Port board

Former senator Amanda Vanstone back at her North Adelaide home after returning from her posting as Australian ambassador to Italy. Picture: Brodie Campbell Source: The Advertiser

FORMER Howard Government minister Amanda Vanstone has signed on as a director of Port Adelaide.

Vanstone, a passionate Port Adelaide supporter who spent 23 years in federal parliament, accepted an invitation to join the board from new president David Koch.

"I was delighted to be at the Grand Final in 2004 to see Port Adelaide's first AFL Premiership and like all supporters I want to see that again, for the club's sake and for South Australia's" Vanstone said.

"We're going to need some fighting spirit and the Port Adelaide Football Club has plenty. It is one of their very admirable qualities.

"One thing Australians really admire is a group that can go through a tough time, rebuild and come out stronger. It is as true for football clubs as it is for people. That's what we intend to do as we build an exciting future."

Vanstone, 59, held several senior posts in the Howard Government including serving as Minister for Immigration from 2003-07.

She served as a SA senator from 1984-2007 and was Australia's ambassador to Italy from 2007-10.

"Amanda is a passionate Port Adelaide supporter who brings global thinking, a worldly perspective and a wealth of local, national and international experiences to the club," Koch said.

"She will help our push towards best practice in all that we do and be an important contributor to the renewal of Port Adelaide, the strengthening of the club's brand and the pursuit of our vision for its future."

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Winmar cut by Saints

Nick Winmar has been cut by the Saints. Picture: Chris Eastman Source: Herald Sun

Classic all-rounder who can break lines from defence, rotate through the midfield, and sneak forward to kick goals.

ST KILDA'S disastrous 2009 off-field trading and recruiting spree has completely unravelled with the Saints today sacking top draft pick Nick Winmar.

The speedster was the last player left on the Saints' list that they brought in after the Grand Final loss to Geelong.

The wretched two-month period saw St Kilda cough up prized picks for Andrew Lovett and Brett Peake, lose Collingwood-turned premiership midfielder Luke Ball for nothing and draft Winmar, Jesse Smith, Adam Pattinson and Will Johnson - who have all since been delisted.

Exclusive video of St Kilda's top draft pick Nathan Wright

The Saints have now lost their first selection in the 2008-10 drafts, with Tom Lynch (Adelaide) and Jamie Cripps (West Coast) traded in the past two seasons.

Winmar, who was recruited using pick 32 overall, played just two matches in his three years at the club and had a year left on his contract.

"Late last week we advised Nick and his manager that we would be releasing him from the final year of his contract," Saints footy boss Chris Pelchen said.

"This was a difficult decision, however we feel it is the right one for both Nick and the club. Nick has been a respected member of the Saints over the past three years and we wish him every success for the future."

Winmar, 21,  is eligible for both the pre-season and rookie drafts, while the Saints will now carry an extra pick on December 11.

The Saints have been linked to former West Coast midfielder Adam Cockie, who impressed at VFL affiliate Sandringham this season.

St Kilda today flies to Colorado for its high-altitude training camp under respected new fitness chief Bill Davoren.

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Saints defend teammate Fisher

St Kilda Footballer Sam Fisher at home. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: Herald Sun

ST KILDA midfielder Leigh Montagna has dismissed reports Sam Fisher could be dumped from the Saints' leadership group.

Montagna defended the veteran defender as the team prepared to travel to Boulder, Colorado for an altitude training camp after an article appeared in Fairfax Media on the weekend that suggested Fisher's off-field behaviour had alarmed the club.

"From my point of view, I saw that article and there was nothing in that," Montagna said.

"There's been no talk about that at all, about (his) leadership.

"He's won two best-and-fairests, he's one of our most professional players.

"From the players' point of view, I didn't see much substance in that article."

It has already been a tumultuous off-season for the Saints, with star midfielder Lenny Hayes undergoing open heart surgery, Brendon Goddard using free agency to join Essendon and Jason Gram sacked over off-field issues.

The Saints dropped out of the top eight this season under new coach Scott Watters, but Montagna remains bullish about their prospects.

"The improvement is going to come across the board and what's really pleasing for St Kilda is the Sydney model," he said.

"If you look at the way they went about their premiership, they still have their older guys playing at a really high standard, but the young guys stepping up and improving.

"Certainly if we can follow that model ... we're very positive about what's ahead of us next year."

Saints delist Nick Winmar

With Goddard gone and veteran leaders such as Hayes and captain Nick Riewoldt in their 30s, Montagna said it was vital that mid-range players picked up the slack.

"We have some guys who have played a lot of football in that middle tier - Jarryn Geary, Sean Dempster and Ben McEvoy," he said.

"Guys who are in that middle bracket, we're probably looking for them to step up.

"There are probably a few of us who have been in the leadership group for a few years now and it's probably time, with Brendon leaving and Nick and Lenny getting a little bit older, that some younger guys step up."

Goddard has just returned from Essendon's altitude camp in Boulder and Montagna said some Saints had been in touch with their former teammate about the training.

It will be the first time that the Saints team have gone through a full-scale altitude camp.

New St Kilda conditioning boss Bill Davoren is a big fan of altitude training.

Davoren is a long-time triathlon coach and he has arranged for Dave Scott to speak to the Saints during their Boulder trip.

Scott is one of triathlon's most famous figures, winning the Hawaiian Ironman six times.

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Tiger goes under knife

Dylan Grimes was enjoying a good pre-season before hurting his hamstring again. Picture: Ben Swinnerton Source: Herald Sun

RICHMOND hopes Dylan Grimes will be available for Round 1 next season after surgery on his cursed hamstring.

Grimes went under the knife today after hurting his left hamstring for the third time this year. It is understood he suffered a small split in the tendon.

Grimes, who had been firing in pre-season training, pulling up sore at training last Friday.

He is the only Richmond player not taking part on a training camp in Cairns.

Grimes, 21, has played just 17 games but is seen as a key to the Tigers' young backline.

He has been plagued by hamstring injuries, travelling to Germany for treatment by soft-tissue expert Dr Hans-Wilhelm Muller-Wohlfahrt this year after injuring his left hamstring twice.

In 2011 he tore the hamstring tendon in his right leg.

"Given Dylan's history with hamstring injuries, we believe surgery was the best option," Richmond's elite performance manager Peter Burge said.

"We won't know the extent of his recovery time until it settles from the surgery.

"Despite the setback, Dylan is keen to start his rehabilitation and is hopeful of being ready for the start of the 2013 season."

Grimes tweeted today: "Just about to go under the knife.. Thanks everyone for the support, it has been so overwhelming! Can't wait to see the boys back in melb!"

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Hawks winners in "goodwill" games

Tim O'Brien was picked up by Hawthorn in the draft. Picture: Peter Argent Source: The Advertiser

FATE is a fickle thing when it comes to determining one's football future, particularly when confronted with the uncertainty of the draft.

And so it was last week when, as late as Wednesday, South Australian Tim O'Brien thought his first career move would keep him in Adelaide with the Crows.

That is until the Crows, embroiled in a Kurt Tippett-related salary cap scandal, handed in their first two draft picks in a "goodwill gesture'' it hoped would reduce the penalty it will inevitably suffer in the coming weeks.

O'Brien, who was likely destined to be selected with the Crows' pick No.20, was instead taken by Hawthorn's pick No.28 and as a result the 193cm forward was packing his bags for Melbourne.

"I did have a lot of contact with Adelaide,'' O'Brien said after completing his first training session at Waverley Park.

"But I was the same as everybody else, I didn't really know what was going on with them. It was a big thing when they lost their pick, I suppose.''

Draft Track: Complete profiles of every pick

Rather than dwell on what might have been, O'Brien said he could not have asked for a better result than landing at Hawthorn.

"I'd been talking to Hawthorn during the year and it was probably the club I wanted to go to the most,'' he said.

"It's just a great feeling around here. It's one of the older, more established clubs. There's a lot of great players to learn off, great leadership.''

If fellow Hawks recruit Kaiden Brand was nervous about where the football Gods would place him last week then he wasn't letting on.

Brand, also a key forward and also a South Australian, said he didn't get too caught up in the hype of draft day on Thursday.

"I had to work, so I was there most of the day,'' Brand, an apprentice electrician, said.

"Then I had Westies (West Adelaide) footy training, so I actually got a phone call when I was on my way home. I didn't get to watch (the draft).''

Asked what it was like to be able to hand in his resignation on Friday, Brand said: "It was a pretty good feeling''.
 

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Viney sets Demon standard

Tough, courageous and a born leader. The Dees have a steal in Viney, who will play Round 1 next year.

Jack Viney and Shannon Byrnes lift the pace. Picture: Klein Michael Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE'S father-son gem Jack Viney has wasted little time making a big impression on his new teammates.

The hard-nut midfielder was a standout with his ferocious attack on the ball at training today.

The man who looms as a bargain No.26 pick for the club is headed for a likely Round 1 debut for the Dees.

Viney, and another new recruit, David Rodan, from Port Adelaide, were the two who impressed most in the session which focused on the Dees' stoppage work.

But there was some concern for former No.1 draft pick Jack Watts, who walked off the track late in the session with a groin concern.

Watts appeared to be in some discomfort as he ended his session feeling the right side of his groin.

Watts sought the immediate attention of the club's doctor and physio.

Click HERE for more pics of Demons training

Veteran Aaron Davey also appeared to struggle with his fitness as he continues to recover from a left knee problem.

The Demons midfielder had his knee taped and limped at times during the two-hour work-out at Gosch's Paddock.

The 158-gamer played eight games last season and has a battle on his hands working his way back into the Demons' best 22.

Melbourne assistant coach Leigh Brown and Jack Viney have a muck-around wrestle at training today. Picture: Klein Michael Source: Herald Sun

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Johnson bolts into Test contention

Mitchell Johnson celebrates his fourth wicket. Picture: Nikki Davis-jones Source: Herald Sun

A FIRED-UP Mitchell Johnson has shown he can still shake up a batting order with a blistering spell for Western Australia in the Sheffield match against Tasmania at Bellerive.

The former Test spearhead floored Tigers keeper Tim Paine with a vicious bouncer and hit several others in picking up four scalps on day two with a menacing display of speed.

The spell could see Johnson return to the Test frame ahead of the final duel against South Africa in Perth, with Victorian quick James Pattinson set to miss with a side strain.

Tasmania reached 9-398 at tea in their first innings, a massive lead of 331.

Ben Dunk fell three runs short of his maiden Shield hundred to top score, while skipper George Bailey made 66.

But with a Test spot in the offing after James Pattinson was ruled out for the summer, Johnson answered Tigers paceman Jackson Bird's 6-25 with firepower - and, for the most part, control - to have figures of 4-103.

The 31-year-old had Bailey caught at deep fine leg at 4-275 before Paine (4) and Luke Butterworth (2) were out to slips catches from superb deliveries to leave the Tigers 6-295.

Paine hadn't looked comfortable after he'd been hit flush on the side of the head, requiring a new helmet and copping a verballing from Johnson.

A short ball at Xavier Doherty's throat had the spinner fending a catch to short leg and on his way for two at 9-355.

A prolonged verbal battle between Johnson and James Faulkner then followed as the Tigers allrounder made 55 not out in a brave cameo.

Johnson may be behind fellow left-armer Mitchell Starc in the Test pecking order but the prospect of his menace on his bouncy Perth home deck could make selectors pause for thought.

Earlier, Tigers opener Dunk fell agonisingly short of a ton when he was caught behind for 97, surpassing his previous best of 45.

WA will have a mountain to climb if they're to avoid an innings defeat after they made just 67 in their first dig.

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Colledge ready to graduate

TOP TALENT: West Coast coach John Worsfold says recruit Brandt Colledge is ready to play next season. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: Herald Sun

WEST Coast Eagles coach John Worsfold believes teenage forward Brant Colledge is capable of making his debut next season.

The Eagles tracked the 192cm utility throughout the year before pouncing with their first selection at pick No.45 in Thursday's national draft.

Fellow Perth product Fraser McInnes, picked up in last year's national draft, appears set to be the prime beneficiary of more opportunity in the wake of Quinten Lynch's departure to Collingwood.

But Worsfold predicted 18-year-old Colledge, whose colts career with the Demons has been limited by a serious ankle injury, would be ready to play next season if the chance presented.

McInnes - who is yet to debut - and Colledge are friends and are likely to jostle for several years for a role in the West Coast forward line supporting key weapons Josh Kennedy and Jack Darling.

"The (recruiting) boys say Colledge is a really powerful boy, he could play next year physically. They're confident with that," Worsfold said.

"I always say you really don't know that until you get to about March and you have a look at how they've handled the pre-season workload and where they sit."

Colledge, who is studying a law degree, said he was excited by the challenge of trying to break into the Eagles' formidable forward line.

"I think I'm just a committed, competitive guy and if I can bring some good intangibles and attributes to the club like that I think it would be really good," he said.

"There's a lot of good young talent at the Eagles that will hopefully push for a premiership in the near future. Hopefully I can learn from them and be a part of some success in the future."

Worsfold said the selection of Mark Hutchings, the club's final pick at No.60, was a reward for the 21-year-old's professionalism and determination.

Hutchings, a former captain of the WA under-18 team, spent one season on St Kilda's rookie list in 2010 before returning to Perth and enjoying two superb seasons with West Perth.

"There's no doubt his professionalism, his hard work and his attitude to want to get the best out of himself is a real strength of his, and that's contributed to him having such a good year," Worsfold said.

"Some kids get disappointed and don't put as much into their footy if they're overlooked in a couple of drafts, but he's been motivated to keep doing the work and that's a great sign."

Hutchings finished second to Claremont's Kane Mitchell in last season's Sandover Medal despite earning a whopping 51 votes.

"He got tagged pretty much all year but still had a very good season," Worsfold said.

"He's just a real hard-working, accumulator of the footy and he can play at half-forward. We're really excited for what he adds to the group."

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September axe to spur Griffin

DRIVEN: Fremantle ruckman Jonathon Griffin will use last year's September omission as a motivating factor this pre-season. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

PLENTY of Fremantle players are beginning this pre-season spurred by the pain of last season's finals exit.

One big Docker has been dealing with the pain of not even being out there in September.

Ever since he arrived at Fremantle two years ago, Jonathon Griffin has been asked whether he and Aaron Sandilands can play together.

Quietly but with an inner-determination, the wholehearted ruckman has continually reasoned that the pair can.

It is a belief Griffin continues to hold despite enduring the most frustrating period of his career.

The 26-year-old played 13 matches last season, the most he had managed since 16 for Adelaide in his debut year in 2007.

But after coach Ross Lyon experimented with using both he and Sandilands together for just the third time in the easy Round 23 victory over Melbourne, Griffin was axed for the finals and missed the Dockers' finals triumph over Geelong.

"It was hard to take, but you move on. It was really difficult to watch the finals," he said.

"That's what you play for all year and pre-season, so it's going to be something that I'll use to drive me through this pre-season and hopefully I'll have a good pre-season campaign and push forward for a good 2013."

Griffin will return to training on Wednesday with Fremantle's oldest players, but will be on light duties until after Christmas following surgery on his troublesome left hip.

He carried the problem throughout last season, including when called on to shoulder the ruck load for nine consecutive games through the middle of the season when Sandilands was out with a serious toe injury.

"I played through it pretty much all year. It stirred up a lot of things like my hamstrings, adductors - just stuff that I had to manage which made it frustrating," he said.

"I just tried to play the best footy that I could and I thought I was playing some pretty solid football.

"But the coaching staff and the match committee made the decision (to drop me), and I back their decision. I'm just going to use that as drive for this season."

Griffin has rarely been tested in attack during his two years in the west, with most of his games coming as a ruck replacement for Sandilands. He's adamant he's capable of forming a dangerous combination with skipper Matthew Pavlich up forward.

"It's been difficult because of that. Because Aaron's been out, it hasn't really given us the chance to experiment much with me up forward and Aaron in the ruck, or Aaron up forward and myself in the ruck," he said.

"Hopefully both of us can be fully fit and we can show them that we can make it work. I'd love to work alongside Pav in the forward line and also work alongside Aaron in the ruck.

"Hopefully I can spend some more time up in the forward line in the pre-season and develop that part of my game. I love playing up forward; I think most people do."

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Dons to draft delisted Prismall

Brent Prismall trains with the Bombers at Windy Hill. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON has confirmed it will take delisted midfielder Brent Prismall if he remains available in next month's pre-season draft.

The injury-hit Prismall has been told by the club that he will be granted a reprieve on December 11.

It came after the Bombers passed on their final selection in Thursday night's national draft, leaving one slot available for the pre-season draft.

Coach James Hird has assured Prismall that the pick will be used on him if he is available.

Exclusive Pick Me video of Dons draftee Joe Daniher

"We passed on one of our picks and we have a pre-season pick," Hird told the club's website.

"We are under no illusion that if Brent is there then we will definitely be picking him. That is something we are still looking at."

Prismall has been training with Essendon in the hope of securing another chance.

The 26-year-old has had little luck with injury, managing only 61 AFL matches with Geelong and Essendon.

Meanwhile, the Bombers have announced a trading profit of $401,429.

As a result of funds received for the development of the high performance centre at Melbourne Airport of $11.9 million, the club has recorded an overall operating profit of $12.3 million.

"The Flight Plan fundraising for the new High Performance Centre has made steady progress this year securing nearly $19 million of the $25.7 million project cost," Essendon chief executive Ian Robson said.

"We are confident our strong financial position will allow the club to pay down the shortfall as quickly as possible, aiming to be debt-free by 2015."

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