Round 21 – Essendon v Adelaide: International. Airport Dwellers.

Swish took in two very different but similarly enjoyable games on Saturday, GB v IRE and ESS v ADE.

Vale Harry Beitzel

We have lost another footy broadcasting great in Harry Beitzel. Share your memories of Harry from his umpiring and broadcasting days.

AFL International Cup: Japan Samurais’ speed and skill defeat German height and weight

The Japan Samurai proved too good for the bigger German Eagles. Stephen Alomes has all the action covered.

Enjoying the ride

The question ‘Is football fun anymore?” is the springboard for E. Regnans’ dive into a discussion of the contemporary moment – in and beyond sport.

Sink or Swim?

  I have been reading the recent reports in the press that Surf Lifesaving Queensland (SLSQ) is under threat of litigation over alleged failures in their duty of care. Surf Lifesavers are a remarkable Australian phenomenon, and their red and yellow cap is as iconic as Vegemite. A volunteer organisation that was founded over 100 years ago, [Read more]

Round 21 – Sydney v Fremantle: Heave Ho? Not today, Freo!

Jan Courtin watches her Swans give Freo the old heave-ho.

Round 21 – Essendon v Adelaide: Is Matt Crouch the New Garry McIntosh?

Malcolm Ashwood, revelling in another strong performance by the Crows, sees similarities between Matt Crouch and the great Garry McIntosh, while also expressing strong views on retiring players and the MRP (plus you asked for it, The Chaplin is back!!).

Round 21 – Western Bulldogs v GWS: Surf’s up

The orange tsunami is back. Gill Dite watches them overwhelm the reigning premier.

AFLM Round 20 – St Kilda v West Coast Eagles: On the edge of our seats while stories keep coming

Yvette Wroby meets more story tellers and St Kilda fans as the Saints play for their retiring champion Nick Riewoldt. The Saints are still in this.

“Hynsey”

Ben Hynes, a legendary figure at Williamstown CYMS FC, recently became the first player to reach 300 games for the club. Smokie pays tribute to his friend and former team-mate.

The mind of Steve Johnson: a giant Cat

Stevie J has announced his retirement. Anna Pavlou considers his magic, and says thanks.

The centre circle

The centre circle, where Paul stands among long shadows and watches the sky grow dark. Where his breathing slows, and his fingers freeze. Where his soul arrives without a sound and settles at his feet, and he knows he is home again. That’s what football does to you.

Almanac Book Review: Behind the Goals: The history of the Victorian Country Football League by Paul Daffey

Rod Gillett has reviewed the latest book by The Footy Almanac co-founder Paul Daffey. Behind the Goals: The history of the Victorian Country Football League is out now.

Round 21 – Sal’s Preview: Time to Retire

Sal gets straight into the games, the retirements and points us at the Spring Carnival.

Round 20: Richmond v Hawthorn – The Richmond supporter’s guide to barracking for a good team

After Richmond defeated Hawthorn and seemingly locked in a top 4 spot, Jack Banister resorted to Google to find out just how the finals series works when you finish that high.

AFL 1997 – Twenty Years On: Brisbane Lions (8th)

Brisbane became the Lions in 1997. Their list was fairly stable, but not their place on the ladder. Does this stir up any memories for you?

Something Special This Way Comes

Wesley Hull reports in from Far North Queensland as the Gordonvale State School girls are taking all before them

Round 20 Mega Post

Showdown 43 was a one-sided contest with Adelaide demolishing Port Adelaide in a match that further solidified the Crows premiership favourites status.

Round 20 – Essendon v Carlton: Bombers Prevail After A Scare

Honourable losses – like fine words – butter no parsnips according to Peter Fuller.

AFL International Cup Day One: Dancing and smiling, wind and rain

International Cup editor Jack Banister caught up on three games on Sunday as the competition kicked off. The mix of cultures and styles made for a powerful experience despite the weather trying to put a spoiler on things.