The Nuns of Naples 1984-91

With his usual rapier wit, Damian Balassone cuts to the chase in addressing the death of Diego Maradona.

Trick-or-Treating Malcolm Blight

From Halloween knocking on the (rumoured) door of one of the greatest ever footballers to chatting footy with God and masquerading with Murali, these are some of Damian Balassone’s treasured tales from decades past.

The Half-Back Flankers

‘The Half Back Flankers’ is a poem from Damian Balassone’s recent publication, ‘Strange Game in a Strange Land’.

The Lockdown Poems

Damian Balassone is back with his poetic take on issues ranging from sex in the COVID age via ancient Roman poets to the US presidential election. Cheeky bugger!

The Black and White Song and Dance

In light of Fathers’ Day this weekend, we’ve reprised this wonderful writing from Damian Balassone, who takes us on a beautiful familial journey of joining the Collingwood faithful via Abruzzo, Dights Falls and Victoria Park with thanks to his late father, Donato.

Almanac Teams: An African Australian AFL Team

Damian Balassone has been researching a team made up of African Australian footballers who have played at least one AFL game. It’s an exciting combination.

Marvel

We’re lucky enough to witness a second generation Daicos these days and those of us fortunate enough to have seen both players will enjoy this poem about the original marvel by Damian Balassone.

St Kilda Parish Priest, 1966

Barry Breen’s 1966 premiership winning kick is remembered by Damian Balassone.

An Hour in Heaven

Robbie Flower, an excerpt from Damian Balassone’s recent release, ‘Strange Game in a Strange Land’.

Super Duper

Another terrific footy poem from Damian Balassone; Super Duper, Bruce Duperouzel.

Eddie Gilbert

A short innings caught in poetry by Damian Balassone – the unlikely contender Eddie Gilbert with quick as lightning pace, the immortally incumbent Don facing.

Flying Doormat

Former Carlton champ Bruce Doull is immortalised in verse by Damian Balassone.

Barassi and Blight

One of the many great poems in Damian Balassone’s recently published collection, ‘Strange Game in a Strange Land’

Robbie Flower at the Western Oval

Damian Balassone has just published a book of poems about footy greats, here’s one about the dazzling Robbie Flower.

Daisy Pearce

Daisy Pearce has returned to the AFLW this season, stamping her class on the competition immediately. Damian Balassone penned these words a couple of years ago but they still ring true today.

The Fieldsman in the Floppy White Hat

Fielding at slip on a windy day, nestled under your Greg Chappell hat, then hey! Damian Balassone’s version is far more evocative and poetic!

Poetry: The Man from Moe

Damian Balassone with a teaser from a forthcoming book of verse.

Who Killed David Hookes?

Damian Balassone pens a thought provoking view of the death of cricketer David Hookes.

Almanac Cricket – Test Team of the 80s

In a moment of sleeplessness, Damian Balassone created a super Test Team for the 1980s. What do you think of his team? Any glaring omissions?

Strange Rain

A punting windfall as expressed by Damian Balassone in his poem.