‘Louie’s 87…….And Still Kicking……’ – by K B Hill

KB Hill brings us the delightful story of Lou Cesa who, according to his wife Roma, is still kicking on at 87 and can’t get enough off the footy! Lou is yet another Wangaratta-based personality who personifies the success of immigrant families who have contributed so much to both our country and our game.

“The day ‘Chopsy’ joined the greats……..”: by K B Hill

Another great read from K B Hill, this time about Brendan McAuliffe, winner of The Warrnambool cycling race in 1995.

Almanac Tennis: Watching Ash and Thinking About Stuff

Edward P Olsen first saw Ash Barty play tennis as a 14yo in Melbourne, but it was world events of that day Edward associates with the young tennis player that continues to this day. Read his story about Ash and the Russian riots.

Almanac Tennis: Ash Barty – the perfect role model for young Australians

Sean Mortell channels the view held widely through the Australian populus about new French Open champion Ash Barty. [Lovely tribute – Ed]

Almanac Golf – Golf Capital: Brooks’ double among New York rabble

Hamish Neal with his weekly golf report which features the US PGA win of Brooks Koepka and includes some strong views about New York’s golfing crowds.

Dan McCarthy – Inspired by the racing game by KB Hill

KB Hill talks to Dan McCarthy, who was schooled in the football cradle of Assumption College, but really made his name as a successful horse trainer.

Running with the Richmond Harriers

Andy Fuller gives a first hand recount of running with the Richmond Harrier’s during training Wednesday night.

Almanac Pro Running: The Bull of Stawell (Part I)

Craig Little tells the tale of Luke Versace’s 2014 Stawell Gift victory – a remarkable comeback story, more than a decade in the making, which starts in Pamplona and finishes at Central Park. [Epic – JTH]

Almanac Books: Not Bad Thanks is a hoot

If you want an entertaining examination of mateship and sporting obsession, John Harms thinks Graeme Willingham’s ‘Not Bad Thanks’ is an excellent investment. For extracts, and details on how to obtain the book, please read further.

The All-Rounder, the Import, and the Coach who stayed – KB Hill

KB Hill goes back a hundred years and more to bring us stories about the talented, the ‘colourful’ and the committed. The Wangaratta Football Club certainly went through some interesting times back then.

Should Governments fund AFL and NRL high performance centres?

Thinking Sport asks the question as to what extent, if any, governments should be funding major sporting facilities for elite, high performance sports. [Timely comments considering the upcoming election. Ed]

“Not Bad Thanks” – Graeme Willingham: extract no. 3, Playing above oneself

Exceptionalism, or playing above oneself? Graeme Willingham defines his thoughts on both in this extract from his new book, “Not Bad Thanks”.

When The Mighty Fall/ Fail

The Ruminator asks us to think beyond the easy road of character assassinations and instead explore constructive, respectful and meaningful conversations with those with whom we may disagree strongly. A challenging and perceptive call to pause, think and then engage. A short treatise on humanity.

“Not Bad Thanks” by Graeme Willingham: So, who is Graeme Willingham?

The Footy Almanac has featured extracts from Graeme Willingham’s new book, “Not Bad Thanks” over the past week or so, but little have we heard about the author himself and his background. All is revealed above.

“Not Bad Thanks” – Graeme Willingham: extract No. 2, Tribunals!

Some members of the Not Bad Thanks basketball team had problems with the rules and regulations of the game. This extract from Graeme Willingham’s book “Not Bad Thanks” details some of these problems and their subsequent consequences.

‘Far from the madding crowd…..’ – KB Hill

KB Hill reprises his tribute to Lance Oswald, Strathmerton legend, St Kilda star of the early 60s and a member of both their Hall of Fame and Team of the Century. According to many local experts, he was Wangaratta’s finest football product. Lance passed away recently.

Sarah’s Big Swim: A piece of therapy that feels like France

Sarah Wapling continues to prepare for Sarah’s Big Swim this time by writing this expose about the therapy that is the 3 kilometre time trial. [Are we starting to get somewhere closer to Sarah’s mind here? JTH]

“Not Bad Thanks” – Graeme Willingham: Some thoughts, the critics, and an invite

How a rag tag team of basketballer mates raise themselves from the bottom of the ladder to achieve success is the topic of Graeme Willingham’s book “Not Bad Thanks”. Told with good humour, at times moving, but always entertaining, the book is sure to enthrall all readers. Why not come to the Almanac dinner and hear Graeme discuss his book with John Harms. Details above.

A great weekend in Australian sport

The weekend showcased so much that is great about Australian sport, regardless of what or who you follow. Here’s one take on just some of what we saw.

1987 Australian Open Final

Damian Balassone on a tennis great’s unfortunately timed meal of meringue, cream and fruit.