AFL Second Semi Final 1990 – Essendon v Collingwood: Leaps and Bounds

David Wilson is prompted by recent miseries (drugs scandals, unexpected losses) to remember the first careless rapture of a 15yo boy at his first final. “High on the hill, looking over the bridge, to the M.C.G……….my feet don’t even touch the ground”.

Planning and process: a short reflection on the Dudley Street Footy Trip 2014 example

Anyone who has ever tried to organise a footy trip for middle-aged mates will recognise the scenario outlined here by fellow-traveller C. Jury.

When, in planning the weekend, Koala Mafia boss Dr Bill Ellis made a decision to attend Fitzroy v Uni Blues ahead of Collingwood v Hawthorn (completely understandable – Ed] he didn’t realise the forces it would unleash. [Language warning – but amusing employment of the world’s most versatile expletive – Ed]

Carnival highlights inclusiveness

All roads (and public transport) lead to Preston City Oval this Thursday afternoon for the start of the the 2014 National Inclusion Carnival.

Old (Woollen) Footy Jumpers – Studfield Hawks Junior FC: Sasha Lennon

Where is Studfield? And which of these young champions is Sasha Lennon?

Kangaroos from the Ovens and Murray

Glen Davis nominates his best team of Ovens and Murray League players to have lined up for North Melbourne. Omissions, adjustments and debate encouraged.

Charlie and the Footydream factory: a day in the life

David Wilson thinks that many aspects of the Essendon drugs saga are setting a bad example for our kids. And alleged use of illegal substances is only part of the story. What happens when individuals surrender their responsibility to ‘authority’ and group think?

When is it time to hang the boots up and retire?

Andrew Weiss loves his Lions and Jonathan Brown in particular. But when is enough enough? In the wake of Darren Glass’ retirement, Andrew wonders if it is time to finally put club second, and family and future first.

Coleman’s Likes & Dislikes: Round 13

Round 13 was the round of the underdog: Bulldogs, Demons, Giants and Liam Jones. But where to from here for the Saints? And how much longer for the Bombers?

Overheard at Essendon: a conversation between a worried player and an official: “Trust me”

Sean Curtain relays a conversation overheard out at Bomberland this morning. “Tell us it ain’t true Mr Hird/Dank/Little/Thompson.”

Rules of the game – Chapter 2: The impossible dream*

Charlie Krebs ‘the Footy Bogan’ helpfully defines the physiology of Collingwood players and their opponents (as defined by Magpies fans). He also provides a computer algorithm to “clarify” holding the ball decisions.

Glass: Man of Steel

Peter Baulderstone pays tribute to Darren Glass as one of the toughest, most resilient competitors in the modern era.

The Earth is flat

Rick Kane challenges the way Mick Malthouse understands life, the universe, and close losses.

Mike Sexton’s 7.30 piece on John Coleman

John Coleman is regarded as one of the greatest talents of footy.

Recently Doug Ackerley published a biography of Coleman. Also, film footage of Coleman has been discovered.

Mike Sexton reported on this Coleman coincidence for 730.

Riverina, and Red and Whites

Glen picks a team of players from the Riverina who went on to represent the Swans (both of the South Melbourne & Sydney variety). And he will take on board any suggestions regarding players he may have overlooked.

21 Deep, Penetrating, Important, Philosophical Questions: Gospel music, Twistie Rolls and Shaun Hampson

Sean Curtain isn’t afraid to ask the hard questions. From Van Morrison to the value of St Kilda in the AFL, they are all questions worth asking. Have you got answers?

Leadership Matters (reprised)

Malcolm Ashwood runs the ‘rulebook’ over good and bad leadership in sport. [This piece has been generating comments again – so we thought we’d bring it back – Ed]

A brother’s jumper

Vin Maskell clings to the memory of a football jumper he will never see or touch again.

Coleraine Football Club: Bill Bailey

Wool-grower Bill Bailey played for the Maroons in the late ’60s, and his woollen footy jumper still serves him well.

WAFL Round 11: Royals go to the top, Lions return to form, Sharks stay in the four

Les covers Round 11 of WAFL games. It’s East Perth on top from Swan Districts. Former AFL players and relations are bobbing up.

Lance Franklin: a freak. Not a champion.

If he can’t stand up and deliver in front of goal, a forward can never be a champion. Even if he is 6’6″, ridiculously talented and a joy to watch.