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Dawes, Byrnes join Demon leaders

Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 19 Januari 2013 | 12.58

Former Magpie Chris Dawes joins Melbourne pre-season training. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE recruits Chris Dawes and Shannon Byrnes have walked straight into the Demons' leadership group for 2013.

The Dees announced today they would have a nine-player leadership group this season, with youngsters Jack Grimes and Jack Trengove to continue as co-captains.

The other addition to last year's leadership team is 22-year-old midfielder Jordie McKenzie.

The full group is: Grimes (co-captain), Trengove (co-captain), Nathan Jones (vice-captain), Shannon Byrnes, Mitch Clark, Chris Dawes, James Frawley, Colin Garland and McKenzie.

Clint Bartram (retired) and ruckman Mark Jamar are the two members of the 2012 leadership group that are not part of this year's group.

Summer Barometer: Click here for Demons' training latest

Coach Mark Neeld said the changes reflected strong competition among the playing group for leadership positions.

Players were chosen based on input from coaches, players and senior staff assessing players on 10 leadership categories including character and competitiveness.

"Jordie McKenzie continues his great story, coming from the rookie list to where he is now. Jordie's work ethic, competiveness and attention to detail have earned him this position," Neeld said.

"We are also pleased at the impact of Shannon Byrnes and Chris Dawes since their arrival. Their leadership and experience was one of the reasons we pursued them during the free agency and trade periods.

"Both Jack Grimes and Jack Trengove experienced a challenging year in 2012, but in their first year as captains, we were very happy with their development and have full confidence that this will continue in 2013."

Neeld said Jamar was disappointed to miss out on this year's leadership group but "handled it like a professional".


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Karmichael set to hunt AFL's best

Ready to shine: Gold Coast Suns defender Karmichael Hunt at pre-season training. Picture: Tim Marsden. Source: The Courier-Mail

KARMICHAEL Hunt will be unleashed on the competition's best clearance players as he enters his third season in the AFL with the challenge to kill or be killed.

Suns coach Guy McKenna has a two-year plan to transform Hunt from a bodyguard to an elite ball-winning AFL midfielder that will begin with the 26-year-old assuming the mantle of chief tagger a tactic the Suns have only occasionally employed over their two season in the AFL.

It is a make or break season for the code-hopper who must discover a way to continue to earn a game in a midfield that includes superstar Gary Ablett and three of the brightest young players in the game Harley Bennell, David Swallow and Jaeger O'Meara.

Hunt's transition from NRL superstar to bona fide AFL player has been a success to date but in 2013 the bar has been lifted.

He has impressed with his ability to win clearances and the bullocking work he does around stoppages but his possession average of a little over 14 a game is no longer enough.

Hunt's biggest possession count was 22 against Fremantle in Rd 6 while twice, against the Kangaroos and Lions, he gathered 21 touches.

Until he can regularly deliver those numbers, he must start delivering some big name scalps.

In a tough opening month Hunt could take on Saint veteran Lenny Hayes, Sydney ball magnet Josh Kennedy and Brisbane's evergreen Brownlow medallist Simon Black.

Hold his own against that esteemed trio and by the time Rd 4 arrives, Port Adelaide might tag him.

"Playing on them and squeezing the life out of them and then learning to work off them, the good taggers end up doing that," McKenna said.

"Eventually, the best way to stop them is to beat them to the ball but that tends to happen over years.

"'It is the evolution."

While McKenna's plan is ultimately all about increasing Hunt's possession count, he will not be judged on his touches during the early days of the new role when his primary focus will be in negating.

"We will look at what his opponent does," he said. "Lenny Hayes averages 27 or 28 possessions and gets seven or eight clearances.

"If we can reduce that by a chunk and make sure the touches he gets are under extreme physical pressure and `K' is responsible we'll be thrilled."


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KB wants trainers' on-field time cut

Former Richmond champion Kevin Bartlett wants to see AFL trainers spend less time on the field. Picture: Derrick Den Hollander. Source: Herald Sun

KEVIN Bartlett has backed plans to slash the time AFL trainers can spend on the ground during games.

The AFL laws of the game committee and players are at odds over a plan to allow trainers to run drinks on to the field only after goals.

It is understood the league also wants to reduce the number of trainers per team from five to four.

The recommendation was made to help ease congestion on the field and limit instances of interference from water-carriers.

Some players contacted by the Herald Sun have labelled the push "crazy" and "dangerous" because of the risk of dehydration in hot conditions.

Bartlett, a member of the laws committee, said players would have adequate access to water under the new proposal.

The AFL legend said any resistance to the plan was "ridiculous", considering there was an average 26.6 goals scored a game last year, plus continual interchange rotations.

"That's 26 times a game at least where they can access water," Bartlett told the Herald Sun.

"If we look at that over four quarters, that's six times a quarter.

"I don't know whether anyone's going to dehydrate in between quarters, are they? If there was to be (up to) 50 interchanges a quarter as well, any player suggesting he could get dehydrated or collapse is being ridiculous."

AFL game analysis manager Joel Bowden presented the plan to the AFL Players Association in December.

For the second consecutive year, it was rejected.

The AFLPA said there were three key reasons for voting against the proposal.

Among their concerns was the potential for long periods between goals and the hot conditions experienced early and late in the season, especially in Perth and Queensland.

West Coast hosted North Melbourne in 28C in last year's elimination final.

"We do not see how this will contribute significantly to reducing congestion," the AFLPA said.

"There are ramifications from a health and safety/performance perspective due to the importance of hydration in our game."

The AFL has introduced rules such as the substitute system to help ease on-field congestion.


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Greene a better fit for Izzy's jersey

Written By Unknown on Jumat, 18 Januari 2013 | 12.58

The GWS Giants revealed their guernsey numbers for 2013 at Moore Park and Toby Greene got the famed No.4. Source: News Limited

THE man who will take over Israel Folau's number at the GWS Giants will almost certainly rack up more possessions in three games than the multi-million-dollar code-crosser did in his entire career in the AFL.

Ball magnet Toby Greene has decided to give up his old No.35 for Folau's No.4.

Greene chalked up a staggering 539 possessions at an average of 28.4 in his first season in senior football compared to Folau's 80 at an average of 6.2."When Izzy retired (Giants welfare manager) Craig Lambert asked if I wanted his number and I thought, 'Why not?" ' Greene told The Daily Telegraph.

"Izzy is a great bloke and was respected by the players. But I liked No.4 because I had it in my junior days a couple of times.

"There are a few of the better players in the competition who wear No.4, like Hanners (Sydney Swan Dan Hannebery) and Jobe Watson at Essendon."


If Greene continues his dramatic improvement, it won't be long before his name is mentioned alongside the Watsons and Hanneberys.

The 19-year-old aimed for a modest 10 games in his first season last year, but ended up with 19 by showcasing form that was a revelation.

He continued to rack up 30-plus possession games week after week and was runner-up in the club's best-and-fairest behind co-captain Callan Ward.

Coach Kevin Sheedy described Greene as the "best ball magnet he has seen in 30 years in football".

He picked up 38 possessions in a match on two occasions and matched it with the best teams in the competition when he snared 35 and 34 against Collingwood and Hawthorn respectively.

"I learned something every week playing on the best players in the competition," he said. "Hopefully I can become more damaging with my disposals and kick a few more goals."

Last year Greene kicked eight goals. He is aiming to at least double that.

"I kicked more behinds than goals - I want to change that around," Greene said.

Greene is backing up his ambition with action - winning the GWS Giants' first 3km time trial before Christmas.

The next challenge is sure to come from opposition clubs who are certain to pay more attention to the man who wears No.4 this year.

"If it (extra attention from opposition) does come it's something I have to get used to," Greene said.


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Pavlich ponders captaincy at Freo

READY TO GO: Matthew Pavlich says he's happy to step down as Fremantle captain when the time is right. Picture: Richard Polden Source: PerthNow

FREMANTLE forward Matthew Pavlich will happily step down as captain when he feels the time is right, saying he has already discussed a succession plan with the AFL club.

Pavlich has established himself as Fremantle's greatest player during his decorated 279-game career, with his six All-Australian awards, six best-and-fairests, and 558 goals all records at the club.

The 31-year-old, who has been captain since 2007, has no immediate plans to step down.

But Pavlich said there were plenty of candidates to replace him once the time was right to pass over the baton.

Aaron Sandilands and Luke McPharlin are likely to be overlooked given they are in the twilight of their careers.

But the likes of David Mundy, Matt de Boer, Nat Fyfe and Hayden Ballantyne would be right in the mix, while Pavlich said Chris Mayne, Stephen Hill, Garrick Ibbotson and Tendai Mzungu were other emerging players who offered sound leadership.


Pavlich has been in close contact with chief executive Steve Rosich, football operations manager Chris Bond and coach Ross Lyon about a succession plan, and said he would embrace the change when the time was right.

"I certainly don't want to stand in the way of anyone. I don't want to suffocate the oxygen out of any other internal candidates," Pavlich said after the team's photo shoot on Thursday.

"If there are some players that are willing to step up and are ready, then absolutely, that would be great and fine with me.

Summer Barometer: Freo injury and training latest

"And equally, if there wasn't, then I'd be happy to continue on.

"We've worked extremely hard to develop not only the leaders within the leadership group, but some of the emerging leaders that are coming through and are starting to have a real impact.

"There's a lot of guys that have played between 70 and 120 games now that we really believe are the future of this club."

Pavlich, who underwent hip, back and Achilles tendon surgery during the off-season, said he was on track to appear in at least one pre-season game.

Meanwhile, Pavlich praised the perseverance of 21-year-old midfielder Anthony Morabito, who will undergo the radical LARS procedure in Sydney next week after rupturing his knee for a third time.

"Just when you're hurting in the pre-season and things might be a bit tough, sometimes you put it in perspective and think about what Anthony Morabito has been through," Pavlich said.

"It gives the guys a massive leg-up.

"His personal development and maturity has really shone through."
 


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Watson talks up trim Hurley

Michael Hurley (right) wrestles with Cale Hooker at Essendon pre-season training. Picture: Town Jay Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON captain Jobe Watson predicts that a slimmed-down Michael Hurley could be the key to the Bombers in defence and attack in 2013.

Injuries restricted the 193cm key-position player to only 16 games last year but he has recovered well from wrist surgery and epitomises the new slim-line Bombers, as does Watson, who's set for another big campaign after winning the Brownlow Medal in 2012.

The 27-year-old Watson, who is listed as 190cm and 94kg, is also looking leaner following an endurance-based training load.

It's a far cry from the soft-tissue injury dramas the 11th-placed Bombers endured last year after placing a big emphasis on building body strength.

"A few guys have been conscious about getting a bit lighter as the game is moving a little bit more into an endurance style," Watson said today.

"The most pleasing thing has been the numbers we have training at the moment.

"There's maybe one or two guys who aren't able to complete it and they're only a few weeks away.

Pre-season pic gallery: Bombers fit and firing

"Just to be able to get the work into such a large majority of the group has probably been the biggest difference from 12 months ago.

"It just means they're not coming in under-done and trying to catch up and when you're trying to catch up it means you're pushing harder and that can lead to some injuries that we did have 12 months ago.

"The way 'Hurls' has come back and the way he looks, Michael Hibberd is another guy who came to Colorado (training camp) and it was really beneficial for him."

Summer Barometer: Bombers' training and injury latest

Watson said Hurley was able to do running drills with the the club before Christmas and then had a plaster cast removed from his wrist following surgery.

"He has certainly noticed the difference being lighter. It's noticeable out there on the track," Watson said.

"He'll probably start as a forward. He can play anywhere."

Watson said he felt energised by a November training camp hiking through the snow in Colorado and returned to post a personal-best time in a 2km time-trial.

The Bombers open their NAB Cup campaign with matches against the Western Bulldogs and Collingwood at Etihad Stadium on February 15.


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Pies plug leaky defence

Written By Unknown on Kamis, 17 Januari 2013 | 12.58

Scott Pendlebury and Dane Swan get a little rough at a Collingwood training session at Gosh's Paddock. Picture: Nicole Garmston. Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD wants to stop the bleeding in the back half which undermined its premiership ambitions last season.

After revolutionising the game with its famed "press" tactics in 2010-11, the Pies pressure weakened last season, prompting a thorough review of the team's defensive operations over summer.

According to Champion Data, Collingwood was ranked No.1 for time the ball spent inside forward-50m in 2010 and 2011, but slid to 11th last year, when they were beaten by premier Sydney in the preliminary final.

While the early-season return of key backman Lachlan Keeffe from a knee reconstruction will help defend the back-50m, the Pies have also zeroed in on how they protect the ball up the ground.

Coach Nathan Buckley said yesterday the Pies wanted to put the brakes on the opposition's scoring in 2013.


"We had heavy scores against, especially against good opponents, which we've clearly identified in our review," Buckley said.

"We allowed too many scores per percentage of inside 50s and we allowed too many inside 50s, so it's definitely a focus of ours.

"We need to be able to slow the opposition ball movement down a bit better than we did in 2012.

"Good defensive sides are generally good transition sides - sides that can be aggressive on both sides of the ball.

"We are practicing that and we'll get a chance to practice that in real time in the NAB Cup and early in the season."

Nick Maxwell, who is critical to the defensive setup with the aerial support he provides teammates, is again set to lead the Pies this year.

Summer Barometer: Pies' training and injury latest

Buckley said although the leadership process was still incomplete, Maxwell had his vote.

"Personally, I've got no reason why Maxy wouldn't be (captain)," Buckley said.

Dale Thomas has removed the moon boot from his recovering ankle, but won't train with the main squad for another three weeks.

First-choice ruckman Darren Jolly is continuing an impressive pre-season but Buckley lauded the impact new tall recruits Ben Hudson and Quinten Lynch had had some arriving at Lexus Centre.

"Ben Hudson has been fantastic, he brings a bit of mongrel into the way that our big fellas go about it," he said.

"I think already that's starting to rub off on our younger talls and we're looking forward to that continuing."

Lynch lost his place in the Eagles' side last season but is set to play a key role in attack for the Pies, as a ruck-forward replacement for new Demon Chris Dawes.

Buckley said Lynch's work ethic had been so strong he needed to be "held back" over summer.

"He's been great, he's a work horse and he's everything we thought we were recruiting," Buckley said.

"You need to put a leash on him.

"If you said we've got 20 x 400m and we're only going to give you 15 seconds break in between, he would put his foot on the line and put his head down and get ready to run. There's no questions."


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Chick sues website over Cousins

Eagles premiership player Daniel Chick is suing for defamation. Source: PerthNow

FORMER West Coast Eagle Daniel Chick has launched legal action over claims made in a series of articles last year.

The 36-year-old, who started his career with Hawthorn, is suing the SportsNewsFirst website, a journalist and the AFL for the publication of a series of articles which mention the former footballer.

In a writ lodged in the WA Supreme Court this week, it says Chick, who is representing himself, is seeking a permanent injunction over the articles, which he claims are defamatory.

Jurrah blew five times legal limit

The writ says three separate stories relating to Ben Cousins, a former teammate at West Coast, being admitted to hospital which mentioned Chick were false. They were published between January and February 2012 on the SportsNewsFirst website, SEN Sports Central and the AFL website.


Chick is also seeking damages, aggravated damages, as well as costs for the publication and republication of the offending articles, claiming that he has suffered hatred, contempt and ridicule as a result.

Three years ago the former footballer was fined $7000 after pleading guilty to importing performance and image enhancing steroids from Thailand.

Chick was caught on arrival at Perth Airport with nine vials and a number of pills concealed in his luggage on October 9, 2010.

PerthNow tried contacting Mr Chick but he did not return calls.


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Port won't give up on Jurrah

Liam Jurrah arrives at Port Adelaide training in December. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

TROUBLED football star Liam Jurrah has been charged with drink-driving after the P-plater blew a staggering 0.27 when he arrived at a house where police were in attendance on Monday.

But they are waiting for him to come to them.

Jurrah has been charged with drink-driving after he blew a staggering 0.27 late yesterday when he arrived at a house where police were in attendance.

The former Demon trained with Port before December's rookie draft but was overlooked.

The Power, however, said they were committed to helping Jurrah find a way back to top-level football.

Despite the 24-year-old failing to show for training with the Port Magpies - the AFL's clubs SANFL cousin - Port says it isn't giving up on Jurrah.

"After making the decision not to select Liam in last month's pre-season and rookie drafts, the club has been working with the AFL to attempt to provide a pathway for Liam to return to the AFL system," the club said in a statement today.


"During this period, the club has been waiting on a commitment from Liam in relation to training and playing with Port Adelaide (Magpies) in the SANFL and working in the club's community department.

"The club is disappointed with Liam's alleged driving offence but before making a decision on his future the club needs time to assess all the information regarding Liam's situation."

The former Melbourne star, who faces aggravated assault charges that will be decided in the Northern Territory in March, reportedly arrived at Para Hills in Adelaide's north where police were dealing with another matter.

Officers from Golden Grove police reported Jurrah, 24, after they'd stopped him in his Holden Commodore about 8.20pm on Monday.

Jurrah, who is living in Elizabeth, was detained after he appeared affected by alcohol.

He was then breath-tested and returning a reading of .269 - more than five times the legal limit of .05.

He was reported for driving under the influence of alcohol, exceeding the prescribed level of alcohol and breaching a probationary licence.

His driver's licence has been disqualified for 12 months and  he will be summonsed to  appear in the Holden Hill Magistrates Court at a date still to be decided.

Port Adelaide Football Club general manager (SANFL) Brian Leys last night said Jurrah had not trained with the club since being made an offer to join its ranks after Port Power failed to take him.

Mr Leys said he had only heard reports of the drink- driving charge through the media. He added: "The offer is still open ... we'd love him to come down."

Jurrah's grandmother, Cecily Granites, told The Advertiser last night that the drink-driving matter was an issue for Jurrah and his family to sort out among themselves.

"It's between Liam and his family ... no one else's business," she said.

"We're sorting it out as a family. He's OK."

Jurrah has in recent months been known to frequent Adelaide's south parklands to visit family members.

The footballer has also attended the Hutt Street Centre for homeless people on a number of occasions.

A family member said that Jurrah had often taken food to  homeless people during his  visits there.

Most of those living in the parklands with whom Jurrah had contact have been moved on after the bashing murder of  a 41-year-old homeless man in December.

A man, 29, of no fixed address, has been charged with the murder.


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Daisy touch and go for Round 1

Written By Unknown on Rabu, 16 Januari 2013 | 12.58

Dane Swan tries to find a way past Scott Pendlebury at Collingwood training. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

Coach Nathan Buckley watches Collingwood train at Gosh's paddock. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD midfielder Dale Thomas is unlikely to play a major role in the Pies NAB Cup campaign as he recovers from ankle surgery.

The Pies star has removed the moonboot from his foot but is still limited in his training load.

Coach Nathan Buckley said the matchwinner would need more recovery time before joining in full training with the rest of the Pies squad.

"He's progressing fairly well, he's getting a lot of touch inside," Buckley said.

"He's been able to work specifically on his strength and he's definitely sick of the bike.

"We will get him out on the track in three weeks' time and gauge it from there."

Buckley was unsure if Thomas would be ready for the Pies' Round 1 date with North Melbourne on March 31.

"Round 1 is 10 weeks away, there's a lot of water to go under the bridge."

The Magpies' coach said he expected Nick Maxwell to be reappointed in the coming weeks as captain although he felt veteran onballer Luke Ball and former club champion Scott Pendlebury were also strong contenders for the role.

"Personally I've got no reason why 'Maxie' wouldn't be (captain),'' Buckley said.

"Our players will choose their own leadership group."

Summer Barometer: Pies' injury & training latest

And Buckley backed the club's decision to ask young defender Marley Williams to work with the Salvation Army for the next 10 weeks as punishment for an assault charge in WA.

"He'll start this evening. The guys send a van out, it's basically a soup van,'' Buckley said.

"It goes around and they spend time with the homeless throughout Melbourne city.

Picture gallery: Pies up for fight at pre-season training

"A lot of of our players have gone and done work there off their own bat from time to time.

"We just feel it's a good opportunity for Marley to see a different side of things and we'll be supporting him with our leaders attending each week as he goes through that community service which we think is appropriate.''

Williams joined the Magpies last year as a rookie and played six senior games and has been promoted to the senior list.

"Marley has got a solid character. He's not perfect,'' Buckley said.

"He's made a mistake. He's been very remorseful about it.''

- with AAP
 


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Morabito opts for LARS surgery

Anthony Morabito (left) will have LARS surgery in an attempt to save his AFL career. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: HWT Image Library

FIRST: How The Sunday Times flagged LARS treatment for Anthony Morabito last weekend. Source: PerthNow

THE father of Anthony Morabito says the young Docker almost gave football away before deciding to undergo LARS surgery.

Fremantle today announced the No.4 draft pick will have surgery next week after tearing his ACL for a third time last week.

Morabito's father Vince said it was a difficult call for his 21-year-old son.

"That was one of decisions he needed to make - whether to give it away or give it another shot," Morabito Sr said.

"Because one of the hardest things for him is that he hasn't fulfilled his dream, so that's the other thing that is driving him as well.

"He was pretty close (to retirement), but he made the decision to play on, we didn't push him into it.

"I just told him whatever he wants to do, the decision was his. He had to be happy with it and not make a decision to please anyone.

"We're pleased everything has fallen into place and we'll support him to the full."

The 21-year-old last week reinjured the left knee he had twice had reconstructed in the past two years, suffering a tear in the graft of the ligament during an attempted tackle.

Having previously had two traditional reconstructions, Morabito and the club elected to use the LARS procedure, with the youngster to fly over east for surgery next week.

The Sunday Times last week revealed Morabito had spoken with LARS pioneers Nick Malceski and Luke Webster about the merits of the procedure.

Summer Barometer: Dockers' injury and training latest

The controversial procedure has allowed players including David Rodan and Nick Malceski to return to action within half a season, but Fremantle football operations manager Chris Bond said it was too early to plot a return date for the midfielder.

"Anthony really just needed some time and space to weigh up his surgery options," he said.

"After discussions with people close to him and the football club, Anthony has decided that this surgery will give him the best chance to resume his playing career.

"Obviously with LARS there's a shorter time frame with coming back, but we think he just needs to get back from the surgery and make sure that everything is OK first.

"We'll see how he recovers from that and then we'll have a better idea."

Morabito missed the 2011 season with a left knee reconstruction after a pre-season mishap, then re-injured the knee when he was preparing for a return to the field in mid-2012.

Last week he tore the graft on his repaired left anterior cruciate ligament in a training drill.


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Knee will be Goodes to go

Written By Unknown on Selasa, 15 Januari 2013 | 12.58

Sydney Swans captain Adam Goodes is on the comeback trail from a knee injury and is confident of being fit for Round 1. Picture: Brett Costello Source: The Daily Telegraph

SWANS captain Adam Goodes admits he is underdone after a pre-season dominated by rehabilitation on an injured knee, but remains confident of being ready for the season opener in March.

Goodes said he would do whatever it takes to be ready for the Round 1 clash with GWS at ANZ Stadium.

The dual Brownlow medallist, who turned 33 last week, partially tore the posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during Sydney's epic grand final win.

Goodes was unable to do any serious training until eight weeks after their premiership celebrations. He will not return to full training with teammates for another five weeks as he continues to ramp up his rehabilitation.

"No pain. No swelling. Nothing to worry about. Just got to get back to the fitness that everyone else is at," Goodes said.

"Every year offers different challenges. Coming back with a premiership medallion makes you feel pretty good about having a sore knee.


"I've been around footy for 15 years. You have to deal with a lot of different things throughout pre-season and you know what you have to do to get yourself right for Round 1.

"I know what I have to do to be ready before we play GWS. There's no worries about am I going to be fit enough.

"It's feeling good. I'm very comfortable. I'm looking forward to getting back to training with the rest of the crew in a couple of weeks."

Summer Barometer: Swans' injury and training latest

Goodes has spent the pre-season in the rehab group alongside defender Martin Mattner (hip), speedster Gary Rohan (leg), midfielder Nick Smith (knee), promising talent Tom Mitchell (knee), grand final hard luck story Ben McGlynn (hamstring) and full-back Ted Richards (ankle).

While his straight-line running has been promising, Goodes has been reduced to limited agility work and direction changing.

His average session has involved running for half an hour, an hour on the cross-trainer in the gym followed by a 1.5km swim.

Goodes will be among 20 big names at the Cadbury Super Team Family Day at Skoda Stadium on Australia Day. He will run a clinic and scratch match with his fellow AFL stars on the day, which is being held in western Sydney for the second year in a row after a Quakers Hill resident won a promotion to have the event hosted in their home town.
 


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Lake on first and final warning

Hawthorn recruit Brian Lake has apologised after he was booked by police for being drunk in a public place on Saturday night. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN has warned prized recruit Brian Lake he cannot afford a repeat of the drunken arrest which landed him in a police cell on Saturday night.

An embarrassed Lake conceded he had to win back respect from his new teammates after fronting the leadership group and coaching staff to explain the late-night incident involving his wife in Sorrento.

The Hawks decided against imposing a ban or suspension, instead ordering the defender to front the club's efforts to help bushfire victims in Tasmania as punishment.

It has been an awful start to the new year for the premiership favourites, with second-year midfielder Alex Woodward requiring a second reconstruction on his right knee.

The onball hard-nut tore the graft in his repaired ACL ligament during an awkward fall at training yesterday.


The devastated 19-year-old laid on the turf for minutes before leaving the ground in tears with trainers.

While Woodward faces another agonising year on the sidelines, an apologetic Lake resumed training yesterday intent on regaining his teammates' trust.

The two-time All-Australian backman admitted his arrest was a setback after an otherwise promising pre-season.

"As a mature player for the Hawthorn Football Club, I should know better about times of leaving places as I did Saturday night," Lake said.

"As you can understand, it's very embarrassing.

"I've worked my butt off for three months to get my body right. To have too many drinks on the weekend, yes I've taken a step back.

"There's no credits in the bank. I'll gain them by training hard."

Hawthorn coaching director Chris Fagan said Lake had been upfront and remorseful about the incident, but could ill-afford a repeat.

"We are very disappointed with what happened, we don't expect our players to be in situations like that," Fagan said.

"We expect this to be a once-off for Brian. There is a little bit of respect he needs to earn back from the rest of the group now which I'm sure he will do."

The Hawks traded picks No.21 and 41 to Western Bulldogs for Lake and pick No.27, hopeful his strong marking and rebounding game would add the missing ingredient to their premiership quest.

After battling serious knee problems in his final years at the Dogs, Lake said he was in top physical condition.

"My knee is feeling is fantastic. The shape I'm in at the moment is probably the best it's been in a very long time," he said.

The club has vowed to support Woodward, who was the 53rd pick in the 2011 national draft.
 


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Ban won't change Brown

Gold Coast veteran Campbell Brown tangles with Bulldog Liam Picken. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

GOLD Coast hard man Campbell Brown says he won't curb his aggression despite sitting out the first six rounds of 2013 through suspension.

Brown says he would be "useless" to the Suns if he tried to play differently.

The 29-year-old former Hawk was suspended for six weeks for a high bump on Adelaide youngster Aiden Riley in the final home-and-away round of 2012.

The original penalty of five weeks was bumped up to six because of Brown's bad tribunal record, but the AFL website reports he won't be changing his ways.

"I don't think it's something I can temper too much because I think if I do, I'll be useless out there, because it's one of my main attributes," Brown said after Suns training.

Summer Barometer: Suns' training and injury latest


"The coaches certainly haven't told me I've got to temper it. I've got to get the balance right because obviously I'm no good sitting on the sidelines.

"I've got to make sure that when I do [go to bump], I get it right, because when I don't, the ramification are quite high."

Brown is still eligible to play in the NAB Cup and expects to make two or three appearances to gain match fitness before embarking on a specially tailored training program to get him right for Round 7.


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Hawk youngster fears knee blow

Written By Unknown on Senin, 14 Januari 2013 | 12.58

Alex Woodward. Picture: Dadswell Mark Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN youngster Alex Woodward has left training with a knee injury, raising fears he needs a second full reconstruction.

The hard-nut onballer was on the comeback from tearing an ACL ligament last March. 

The second-year midfielder was participating in match simulation training this morning when he hurt his knee again.

WHO IS ALEX WOODWARD?
 
A visibly upset Woodward needed help from trainers to leave the track.

He has been sent to hospital for scans.

Woodward was selected with pick 53 in the 2011 national draft.
 


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Sorry Lake says he needs to win respect

Hawthorn footballer Brian Lake at training today after he was booked by police for being drunk in a public place over the weekend. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

Lake with his wife, Shannon. Picture: Julie Kiriacoudis, Source: Herald Sun

Hawthorn footballer Brian Lake (right) at training today after he was booked by police for being drunk in a public place over the weekend. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

UPDATE: BRIAN Lake says he wants to get the respect of the Hawthorn playing group back after a drunken night out led to a $563 fine and four hours in the police slammer.

Speaking today, the star recruit said he was embarrassed and apologetic for the incident following the Portsea Polo on Saturday night.

But the 30-year-old has escaped a fine or club-imposed suspension.

"I've worked my butt off to get my body right. To have too many drinks on the weekend, I've taken a step back," Lake said today.

"From here I want to move on and gain respect. It was a very embarrassing incident.

"I'm here to apologise to everyone involved at the football club, my family and the fans."

Head of coaching and development Chris Fagan said Lake had no more chances if he mucked up again.

"We are very disappointed about what happened. We expect this will be a once off."

When asked if Lake could afford the incident to only be a one off he replied: ``Absolutely, there is no doubt about that.''

The Hawthorn leadership today put the onus on Lake to come up with ways to help victims of the Tasmania bushfires as a sanction.

Lake and his wife Shannon were locked up by police after a drunken verbal stoush in Sorrento.

The two-time All Australian AFL player and wife Shannon were each slapped with a $563 penalty notice for being drunk in a public place.

The couple were placed in a police divvy van and spent four hours in the cells before being released.

Young Hawk fears second knee reco

The pair, who married in 2010, were at the official Portsea Polo after-party at Morgans in Sorrento when they started to argue outside the venue about 10pm on Saturday.

But witnesses said tensions boiled over when others attempted to intervene and then police stepped in.

The onlookers said the altercation was not physical but the couple's argument escalated when others became involved.

Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson announces Brian Lake has been traded to Hawthorn from the Western Bulldogs. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun


In a statement last night, Hawthorn said: "The club considers Lake's conduct to be unprofessional and he will be required to address the leadership group."

The weekend incident caps off a turbulent off-season for the AFL.

A group of Melbourne players was involved in an ugly spat with fans during the Boxing Day Test.

A decision into the Melbourne tanking allegations is due this month and Adelaide was hit with massive fines over salary cap breaches and draft tampering that lead to its former star Kurt Tippett being banned from playing for his new club, Sydney, until Round 12.

Hawthorn's leadership team, which includes Lance "Buddy" Franklin, Jarryd Roughead, Josh Gibson and Luke Hodge, will determine whether sanctions will be placed on Lake, who is yet to play a game for the Hawks.

Lake, 30, crossed to Hawthorn from the Western Bulldogs in a surprise trade deal.

Lake and his wife were among many socialites at the Portsea Polo.

Lake played 197 matches with the Bulldogs.

His manager Marty Pask did not return calls yesterday. Victoria Police said the couple would not face any further action.


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Cats mourn Flanagan's death

Geelong great Fred Flanagan has died. Picture: Zoe Harrison Source: HWT Image Library

GEELONG is mourning the death of two-time premeirship captain Fred Flanagan.

The 88-year-old died this morning and was regarded as one of the Cats' greatest ever players.

Flanagan was a member of Geelong's team of the century and led the club to back-to-back flags in 1951-2.

He was runner-up in the 1950 Brownlow Medal and finished with 163 games and 21 matches for Victoria.

"Fred was a great man and a great Geelong man," Geelong chief executive Brian Cook said today.

"He loved the club and the people that made up the club. I never heard anyone say a bad word about Fred and he loved footy as much at the end as he did throughout his life.

"Fred's record as a player speaks for itself, but it is the man himself that was special. We will all miss Fred's friendship and we offer our deepest condolences to Pauline and to their family."

 

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Dogs tip a new-year resurgence

Written By Unknown on Minggu, 13 Januari 2013 | 12.58

Western Bulldogs star Adam Cooney has enjoyed a strong pre-season. Picture: Norm Oorloff Source: Herald Sun

WESTERN Bulldogs intend to rise up the ladder quicker than expected under second-year coach Brendan McCartney.

The Dogs suffered an horrendous injury run sidelining some of their biggest stars last year, resulting in only five wins - their least since 2004.

But the return of four key senior players, including inspirational broken leg victim Dale Morris, has fuelled hope of a resurgence beyond 2013.

Morris is targeting a Round 1 return after a full year out, along with key backman Tom Williams (shoulder), onballer Daniel Cross (shoulder) and reinvigorated midfielder Adam Cooney (knee).

Cooney, 27, is believed to be enjoying his most productive pre-season since his 2008 Brownlow Medal year, while powerhouse No.5 draft pick Jake Stringer is also on track for an early debut after an impressive summer campaign.


The Dogs are rated $13 outsiders with TAB to play finals this season, ahead of only Gold Coast ($26) and Greater Western Sydney ($51).

But Dogs chief executive Simon Garlick said the club had high hopes of a swift resurgence after investing heavily at the draft table.

"We've seen so many examples of these things where it can turn around quicker than what people might have anticipated otherwise," Garlick said.

"We have got some pretty exciting kids, but throw into that some potential recruits in the likes of Cooney, Morris - and we missed Cross for a period of time last year - and Williams as well.

"So considering all that, we think there is a fair bit to be excited about.

"We are not going to think that it will take 'x' amount of years (to regenerate)."

The Dogs will launch their season with four of their first five games at home ground Etihad Stadium, but have a tough draw overall, playing GWS and Gold Coast only once each, despite a bottom-four finish last year.

Morris has continued to improve over the pre-season after scrapping comeback plans last year when a stress fracture developed in his recovering leg.

 The 30-year-old is not expected to play a major role in the NAB Cup but could press for selection soon after.

"Everything's tracking as you would hope it to be and he's doing as much training as the (fitness) guys want him to do at this stage of the year," Garlick said.

"So it's all geared up for him playing in Round 1. There hasn't been a setback or anything like that."s

"He makes a pretty significant difference for us, having him back there. He's a beauty and he plays on talls and smalls."


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Buoyant Blues

Carlton forward Eddie Betts will get plenty of help in 2013 from Blues big-man brigade. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Carlton forward Andrew Walker puts his balance to the test during yesterday's conditioning session at St Kilda beach. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

CARLTON is racing towards the season with a fully-fit big man division as it strives to the ease burden on its speedy small forwards this year.

Avoiding the bold top-four declarations which dogged the club though an injury hit 2012, a "super-positive'' approach from new coach Mick Malthouse has re-energised the Blues, after a dramatic end to last season.

The wide-ranging change has included moves to release Chris Judd and Bryce Gibbs from official leadership positions, to help them play with more freedom in midfield positions next season.

While a more defensive game plan is being integrated, it is the encouraging signs from Carlton's key forward targets - many who were sidelined for large periods last year - which has fuelled confidence at Visy Park.

Big men Jarrad Waite, Matthew Kreuzer, Levi Casboult, Luke Mitchell, Shaun Hampson and Sam Rowe are all expected to be available for early-season selection, providing Blues coaches with a welcome problem they rarely confronted last year.


Forwards coach John Barker said the club was intent on providing more aerial support in the forward-50m next season.

"We've ban far too reliant on Eddie (Betts) and Jeff (Garlett) and 'Walks' (Andrew Walker) to kick goals and reliant on 'Waitey' (Jarrad Waite) to stand up as a tall forward,'' Barker said.

" We could not get consistently healthy talls last year, so having these guys fit and available is going to be critical for us.

"The good thing is all of them who had some small and big issues last year, they are all ready to go.

"Mick philosophically is really keen to make sure we are fit and healthy at this stage of the year and we are.''

Waite, in particular, has been a stand-out over summer after a lingering back problem last year, but Barker said he should not have to be the main focal point.

"He's a pro in everything he does, Waitey, but he's another one we can't keep relying on to be our only tall target,'' he said.

"We need other guys to stand up and give themselves every opportunity with a healthy pre-season.

"It's great to have guys like Sammy Rowe up and about after his illness (cancer). Levi Casboult is training really well.''

Young backman Andrew McInnes is the only player ruled out for a large chunk of the year after undergoing a knee reconstruction.

Prime midfielder Marc Murphy had minor knee surgery pre-Christmas but is expected to be fit for Round 1.

He was on hand as the Blues completed a two-hour conditioning session at St Kilda beach yesterday, including cycling, stand-up paddle-boarding and some ball-work.

Barker lauded the impact Malthouse has had at the Blues, with 664 games coaching experience.

He is 49 short of Jock McHale's 713-game all-time record.

Malthouse's ability to continue coaching was questioned after his departure from Collingwood in 2011 but Barker said the 28-year coaching veteran's transition to Carlton had been seamless.

"To use one of Mick's lines, it's easy to be negative, but Mick is a super-positive coach,'' he said.

"He's obviously very keen to delegate, so Rob Wiley helps run training and training has been very sharp and really upbeat.

"Mick's slotted in very quickly, he's a very personable guy and the atmosphere is very encouraging and positive.

"The boys are working hard and Mick is working through his game plan week-by-week and the boys are slowly chipping away and getting their teeth into that.''

Malthouse, 59, used a boundary-line centric game style to guide the Pies to the 2010 flag, but Barker said the Blues aimed to be versatile with their ball-movement this year.

"The thing Mick continually talks to the boys about is playing the game in front of you,'' he said.

"Sometimes it will mean taking the boundary and sometimes that will mean changing angles and taking the corridor.

"He has by no means ruled out quick, direct play - that's fairly clear.''


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Hawk fined after drunken night out

Former Bulldog Brian Lake must face Hawthorn's leaders after a heavy night of drinking. Picture: Michael Dodge/Getty Images Source: Getty Images

HAWTHORN star Brian Lake's drunken antics have landed him in trouble with the police and his club.

The former Western Bulldog was fined $563 for being drunk in a public place outside a pub in Sorrento.

He was leaving the pub with his wife when the pair were arrested at 10.10pm and thrown in the slammer for four hours.

The pair had been at the Portsea Polo during the day.

In a statement the club said: "The club considers Lake's conduct to be unprofessional and he will be required to address the leadership group tomorrow."

A Victoria Police spokeswoman said police arrested a 30-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman, both from Caroline Springs, on the Point Nepean Highway.

Lake, 30, was traded to the Hawks in a bold move to help Alastair Clarkson's side jag another premiership with their current squad.

The 197-game veteran joins an extraordinary list of players traded during the off-season who have found trouble with alcohol before playing a game with their new clubs.

New Tiger Aaron Edwards was locked up after a boozy day just 24 hours after North Melbourne traded him.

Former Demons Ricky Petterd (now at Richmond) and Jared Rivers (Geelong) were also scrutinised after they were pictured drinking heavily on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.


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