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News 2012
BRIAN WILLIAMS
January 26, 2012
Brian Williams was a life member of the Warrandyte Football Club and Vice President for the last 9 years. He died suddenly on Monday morning at his home in Donvale due to heart failure. In recent times Brian had battled and had beaten a cancer located at the rear of his nose and had received the all clear prior to Christmas for the third consecutive review. He had put on some weight and was feeling stronger week on week. He was bright and positive and was undertaking more hours of gardening work than he had been able to do during his treatment and recovery periods so we were all shocked to learn that he had passed away in his sleep on Monday the 23rd of January.
Brian became a member of the Warrandyte Football club when his sons Dean & Brendan played Junior Football for Warrandyte. During this period Brian coached several sides and joined the committee, he became an avid supporter of the club and continued to support the club when his sons moved on to other activities.
As many will know Brian was passionate about Fitzroy and he was equally passionate about Warrandyte. Accompanied on the boundary by his great friend Terry Sloan they would both offer advice to the opposition and umpires alike and unrelenting support for the Bloods.
In 2000 Brian joined the committee again to help to change the perception that both the football community and moreover the Warrandyte community had developed of the club. His main objective was to make WFC an inviting place to be for the reestablishment of Under 18 sides that had fallen by the wayside and to bring respect back to the Warrandyte Football Club name. Some tough decisions were taken in the years that followed as respect for the Warrandyte Football Club was rebuilt and recognition of this effort was acknowledged by the EFL and relationships that had previously broken down re-established with the Junior club. Furthermore WFC has had an U18's side every year since.
In the early stages the U18's objective was achieved through combined sides with East Doncaster and later Heathmont but this meant that there were at least 14 young men coming through the club, which has kept it alive and significantly contributed to the 2006 Senior Premiership success. WFC has fielded U18's sides in our own right for the last 6 years and should continue to do so as the age group has now moved to U19's in the EFL which was an initiative driven in no small part by WFC.
Brian took on the responsibility of Vice President after rejoining the Committee and has been a tireless worker on all aspects of club business. He was instrumental in establishing WFC as a "Good Sports Club" stepping through the status to achieve level 2 in 2010 and set up for level 3 accreditation this year. In a similar manner Brian worked on and qualified WFC as a Bronze AFL accredited club; the first in the EFL. Brian continued working on this and the club is currently a Silver AFL accredited club with everything in place for a Gold evaluation. Brian was a tireless worker and ever reliable - picking up things in his ute, running the bar, opening the rooms and providing transport to away games.
Brian managed to find a positive in every challenge that confronted the club and above all was an avid supporter of the U18's and keenly interested in the development of all players. He brought humour into the challenge whilst committing to a large portion of the workload. A great friend to players, members, sponsors and supporters, he leaves a great legacy behind him and will always be remembered.
We will miss you Brian but do our very best to recognise your efforts through on field successes. Rest in Peace.
News 2011
BIGGS DRAFTED TO SWANS
December 13, 2011
Warrandyte Football Club's Shane Biggs has been picked up by the Sydney Swans in the AFL Rookie Draft. After making his senior football debut with the Bloods in 2010, last year Biggs played at the Bendigo Bombers and Mulgrave in Division One of the EFL. In 2010, Biggs was named as Warrandyte's Best First Year Player after being called up to the Senior line-up after dominating in the first three rounds of Under 18 matches.
All at Warrandyte FC wish Shane the best of luck next year with the Swans, hopefully the start of a long and successful AFL career.
Further info can be found on the Sydney Swans website
Footage of Biggs in action can be found here
2012 PRESEASON COMMENCES:
November 23rd, 2011
Pre season training for season 2012 officially commenced on Monday 14 November. After a mixed 2011 the playing group made their intentions for season 2012 know in the best way possible, by turning out in force with over 65 players in attendance.
The session was dedicated to testing all players agility, speed and fitness through a series of drills. The information has been recorded and will be used to analyse where each individual players fitness and strength and condition training should be focused. Players will then be grouped according to the results of the testing and be given targeted fitness sessions to help them improve in the areas that most need attention i.e. core strength, speed and agility, general fitness etc. Each groups fitness will then incorporated into each weeks training sessions.
Training will remain every Monday and Wednesday nights at the Warrandyte Reserve small oval from 6:00pm sharp. Everyone is welcome to get on board what everyone at Warrandyte will be wishing is a successful year ahead.
The club would also like to announce that Justin Hansen has been appointed as the coach of WFC under 19’s for season 2012. Justin supported 2011 under 18 coach Gareth Woodcock as runner and assistant coach. Gareth unfortunately had to step down as the colts coach due to work and family commitments but the club is thrilled to have Justin take the reins. His enthusiasm and knowledge of the playing group will pay help pave the way for a successful 2012 for the under 19’s. With Justin’s appointment the club has just the reserve and under 19 assistant coaching positions still vacant. The 2012 coaching panel is listed below:
Senior Coach: John O’Brien
Senior Assistant: Jarred Loughman
Reserves Coach: Ash Grybas
Reserves Assistant: TBC
Under 19 Coach: Justin Hansen
Under 19 Assistant: TBC
The club is also looking for team managers for each side to assist Football Operations Manager Dale Falkingham with various match day and administrative duties. Anyone interested should contact Tom Naughtin on 0421 231 419.
GO BLOODS!!!
2011 Award Winners
November 11th, 2011
Senior Awards:
Ron Wilson Medal for Leading Goalkicker: Michael Morello (57 goals)
Best First Year Player: Tom Appleby
Most Determined Player: Ben Taylor
Madge Alsop Most Courageous Player: Ben Reid
Best and Fairest: Lee Evans
Runner Up: Tom Naughtin
2nd Runner Up: Todd Holman
Players Award: Tom Naughtin
Reserves Awards:
Most Courageous: Matt Falkingham
Best and Fairest: (Three way tie) Cal Haskings, Paul Burgoyne, Josh Harris
Players Award: Glen Carle
Geoff Darby Most Determined Player: Paul Burgoyne
Under 18s Awards:
Best and Fairest: Mitch Gaffney
Runner-Up: Sam Beasley
2nd Runners-Up: Matt Colborne-Veel
John McCartin Most Consistent Player - Jesse Deer
Lee Tindale Most Determined Player - Nick Dinakis
Most Improved: Dale Paul
John O'Brien Club Champion: Lee Evans
Close But No Pioneer
May 26th, 2011
Warrandyte
lost an enthralling contest with Whitehorse Pioneers on Saturday afternoon,
going down by less than a kick in a thrilling final quarter that saw Warrandyte
edge in front only to stumble at the final hurdle.
After an
emotional minute’s silence to pay respects to the recent passing of coach Neale
Carroll, and life members Terry Sloan and James Logan, James’ playing jumper
was retired and passed to his father Ian and brother Stuart. Warrandyte President Phil Treeby noted that
it was appropriate that on this day we would face our recent arch rival
Whitehorse Pioneers, against whom James played his final senior game in Round
18 2009, and whom Warrandyte defeated in 2006 to win a much celebrated Premiership.
In perfect
football weather the Bloods were wasteful early in front of goal, and only
inaccurate kicking at the other end kept the Bloods in touch at quarter
time. Todd Holman and Dion
Mullett-Treloar were working hard across half back to repel Whitehorse attacks,
and the newly implemented Warrandyte zone defence was stretched as Whitehorse
moved the ball quickly from their kick-ins. At quarter time Warrandyte were yet
to record a major, trailing 0.6 to 2.5.
Quick out
of the blocks after a dressing down from coach John O’Brien, the Bloods claimed
a narrow lead through two quick opportunistic goals to highly decorated veteran
Matt Wood. At the other end of the ground it was Whitehorse’s turn for wasting
opportunities as they struggled to find the goals. Ben Taylor presented
strongly across half forward and Luke Dunn took several strong contested marks
however the Bloods struggled to convert midfield opportunities to marks inside
the forward fifty.
At half
time the game was still in the balance, with Whitehorse regaining a small
advantage, leading 4.10 - 34 to 4.6 – 30.
The third
quarter saw the Bloods again come out of the blocks firing with an early goal
to Luke Dunn to re-take the lead in what was becoming a see-sawing battle.
Warrandyte ruckman Dave Hand left the field for treatment from the trainers for
a badly swollen knee which left the Bloods lacking in height and relying on 18
year old first year player Sam Tansley, one of Warrandyte’s rising stars. Hand
later returned to the field but heavily strapped and with restricted movement.
Whitehorse
settled through the third quarter while poor decision making and skill errors
cost the Bloods dearly. At the final break, Whitehorse had opened up a 15 point
lead.
After John
O’Brien questioned his players’ commitment at the three quarter time huddle,
the Bloods once again hit the ground running at the start of the final term. A
strong mark and goal to Michael Morello put the Bloods within reach, before
several near misses chipped away further at the Whitehorse lead. A goal to Todd
Holman finally gave the Bloods a one point lead before Whitehorse capitalised
on a Warrandyte turnover to quickly snatch the lead back, then goaled again to
extend the lead.
A Clint
Kennedy tackle and turnover in the Warrandyte backline stopped a certain
Whitehorse goal before young Warrandyte gun Tom Appleby goaled under pressure
to narrow the margin to five points.
With the
parochial Warrandyte crowd at full voice, Captain Tom Naughtin ran down a
Whitehorse opponent to win a free kick, before hitting Clint Wheatley on the
lead forty metres out on a slight angle.
Wheatley’s
kick narrowly missed, bringing the Bloods within four points. As the clock
ticked down and the siren imminent, the Bloods had one final opportunity with
Ben Taylor running onto a loose ball at centre half forward, his kick under
pressure drifting right and failing to score. Seconds later the siren sounded
with the Bloods four points short.
This rare
home loss is just the Bloods third loss at Warrandyte Reserve since Round 1
2009, an impressive 18-3 win loss record. Warrandyte now sit sixth on the EFL ladder after four rounds.
Whitehorse Pioneers 11.12-78
defeated
Warrandyte 10.14-74
Goal Kickers: M. Wood 4, M. Morello 2, T. Holman 2,
T. Appleby , L. Dunn
Best Players: M. Wood, L. Evans, C. Kennedy, L. Naughtin, L. Dunn, D.
Beasley
Reserves
Warrandyte 9.15-69
defeated Whitehorse 8.5-53
Goal
Kickers: S. Christopher 2, J. Buhagiar , C. Watson , L. Brewis
, C. Haskings , D. Bryant , J. Wright , J. Burgoyne
Best Players: G. Godwin, C. Watson, J. Miller, J. Hale, J. Buhagiar, P.
Burgoyne
Colts
Warrandyte 7.9-51
defeated by Whitehorse 15.7-97
Goal Kickers: M. Colborne-Veel 2, D. Tester , L.
Oakey , J. Deer
Best Players: N. Thorpe, M. Colborne-Veel, A. Haikal, L. Oakey, D.
Tester
No Feathers Plucked
April 18th, 2011
This week saw the Bloods head out to Tormore Reserve and take on the Boronia Hawks. In typically blustery conditions at the massive Tormore Reserve, the Bloods were quick out of the blocks against a Boronia side that appeared slow. Missing their captain and star player, Dean Grice, it seemed Boronia might be ripe for the picking. Dictating most of the play for what seemed an eternity, Warrandyte failed to capitalize on the score board. Mid way through the first term, the play began to even up as Boronia tightened the strings of Warrandytes ball winners and began to settle into the pace of the game. Boronia’s new star recruit and ex AFL footballer Ben Holland found himself unguarded in the goal square for a quick snap for Boronia’s first major of the day. With Jamie McNamara marking inside the forward fifty twice within two minutes, Boronia opened up a narrow early lead but he Bloods were lucky not to be 4 or 5 goals behind as Boronia wasted many scoring opportunities. Kicking with the aid of the gusty wind, the Bloods finally pinpointed a marking option up forward late in the final term with Luke Dunn on the end of a clever pass from veteran Todd Holman. The Bloods finished the quarter with constant turnovers inside 50 and it was this failure to capitalize on the 3-4 goal wind, which would ultimately hurt the slow starting Warrandyte side.
The second quarter saw Boronia again with the early running, as the Bloods struggled to break past their half forward line into the wind. Three goals in just twelve minutes to the Hawks gave them a very handy 20 point lead. The Warrandyte backline held strong in the second half, repelling an immense number of Boronia attacks. Led by Dion Mullett-Treloar and Lee Evans, they seemingly kept Warrandyte in the game. With the half nearly over some of Warrandytes forwards began to work themselves into the game with veteran Clint Wheatley capitalizing on an inspirational tackle by the desperate Captain Tom Naughtin. Going into half time with almost the same margin at the first break, Warrandyte left the ground knowing the hard work was yet to come.
Needing a big third quarter with the wind, the Bloods got off to the best possible start with an early goal to Mick Morello, but it was soon nullified by Boronia’s fourth goal for the day at the non-scoring Southern end of the ground. With Boronia winning most of the clearances around the ground the Bloods were struggling to work themselves back into a match that was quickly seeming out of reach. Warrandyte's new recruit Gareth Hitchman or GA2 as he is now known, kicked his first for the day with a touch of class, before Matt Wood steadied to give Warrandyte only there second goal for the quarter. During this quarter it seemed Warrandyte lacked endeavor and the ability to follow their opponents back into defence. Too many times Boronia had players unmarked in the forward line and this reflected on the scoreboard with the Hawks kicking 5 goals to 2 into the breeze.
Going into the final term with the huge task of scoring 6 goals into the stiff breeze while holding Boronia goalless, the Bloods needed a minor miracle to have any hope of leaving with the four points. Unfortunately Boronia had other plans and two goals within six minutes snuffed out any slim hope of a Warrandyte comeback. To their credit the Bloods fought it out valiantly and held Boronia to just three goals for the quarter, whilst kicking a couple of their own. Warrandytes backmen were inspirational and most certainly kept the bloods in touch for most of the day. The eventual margin 35 points.
Best players for Warrandyte on a disappointing day were Dion Mullett-Treloar, Lee Evans, Tom Naughtin and Todd Holman
Seniors
Boronia 15.7 - 97
Warrandyte 9.8 - 62
Goal Kickers: L. Dunn 3, C. Wheatley 2, C. Kennedy , T. Holman , G. Hitchman , M. Wood
Best Players: L. Dunn, T. Holman, L. Evans, D. Mullett Treloar, T. Beasley, L. Naughtin
Reserves
Boronia 18.18 - 126
Warrandyte 4.6 - 30
Colts
Boronia 26.25 - 181
Warrandyte 2.6 - 18
Three Cougars Thanks
April 9th, 2011
Warrandyte have registered their first win for 2011 with an impressive 43 point win against Coldstream. With the game in the balance for two quarters, the Bloods found themselves two goals down early in the third quarter kicking against a strong breeze, before banging on five goals in quick succession to go into the final term with a three goal lead. Warrandyte continued their run into the last quarter, superior fitness enabling them to run over the top of Coldstream and register a seven goal win.
Courageous skipper Tom Naughtin was one of the best for the Bloods, along with Ben Taylor, Ben Reid and young up and comer Tom Appleby. Mick Morello was also a standout at full forward finishing with nine of Warrandyte's 13 goals. Next week the Bloods make the trip to Boronia.
Warrandyte 13.10 - 88
Coldstream 6.9 - 45
Goal Kickers: M. Morello 9, B. Taylor 1, T. Naughtin 1, C. Wheatley 1, M. Wood
Best Players:T. Naughtin, M. Morello, B. Reid, T. Appleby, B. Taylor
Reserves
The Warrandyte Reserves smashed an undermanned Coldstream side, with Luke Brewis dominating up forward and finishing with a career best ten goals.
Warrandyte 24.13 - 157
Coldstream 4.1 - 25
Colts
Warrandyte 8.17 - 65
Coldstream 4.10 - 34
Emotional Day for Bloods
April 4th, 2011
It was an emotional start to the 2011 season on Saturday as Warrandyte players took to the field wearing three black armbands in memory of Terry Sloan, Neale Carroll and James Logan. In a pleasing display of solidarity with their local rivals, Templestowe players also showed their respect with black armbands of their own.
After observing a minute of silence in respect for Terry, Neale and James, Warrandyte kicked with the aid of a strong breeze in the first quarter. The Bloods started well and controlled much of the play in the first quarter, however goals to Mick Morello, Todd Holman and first-gamer Gareth Hitchman were offset by several missed opportunities up forward. Holman's goal was the highlight of the first quarter, the mercurial midfielder managing to find the goals whilst being tackled hard up against the boundary line. At quarter time the Bloods led three goals three behinds to Templestowe's two straight goals.
The second quarter saw Templestowe make better use of the wind, with Warrandyte struggling to work the ball forward of the centre. Clint Wheatley goaled for the Bloods to steady the ship, but Eccles for Templestowe was causing headaches for the Warrandyte backline on his way to a nine goal bag. Another hard fought goal for the Bloods kept them in touch at half time, with Templestowe leading by three goals at the main break.
In the third term the Bloods had the upper hand in general play. At half time Warrandyte coach John O'Brien had implored his forwards to improve their accuracy in front of goal, however missed opportunities hurt the Bloods again in the third quarter. Some undisciplined play and questionable umpiring decisions combined to gift Templestowe valuable goals at the other end, with the two sides neck and neck going into the final term, Warrandyte up by two points.
The final quarter started as an arm wrestle with neither side able to gain the ascendancy. Free kicks again hurt the Bloods as Ben Taylor was on the receiving end of a yellow card after a fairly innocuous scuffle. With the Warrandyte backline coming under increasing pressure it was only a matter of time before cracks appeared and Templestowe banged on three goals in quick succession to give Warrandyte a very difficult task. A goal from Warrandyte skipper Tom Naughtin gave some hope but it was not Warrandyte's day, with the Dockers again goaling to finish twenty points in front, to the delight of the parochial home crowd.
Warrandyte's young side, almost unrecognisable from last year's finals side, may take some time to develop, however positive signs were there to show plenty of potential. Saturday's side included first gamers David Beasley, Leon Holewa, Sam Tansley, Caleb Atkinson and Jake Bentley, all progressing from Warrandyte Under 18 and Reserves sides, and Gareth Hitchman who arrived at the Bloods this year from Greensborough.
Next week Warrandyte take on Coldstream before travelling to Boronia after the Easter break.
Templestowe 17.7 - 109
Warrandyte 13.11 - 89
Goal Kickers: M. Morello 2, M. Wood 2, C. Wheatley 2, B. Reid , T. Holman , G. Hitchman , L. Dunn , T. Naughtin , B. Taylor , D. Hand
Best Players: C. Kennedy, L. Naughtin, S. Tansley, L. Holewa, D. Beasley, L. Evans
RIP Andrew James "Jimmy" Logan
March 28th, 2011
Vale Neale Carroll
February 11th, 2011
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Warrandyte Football Club is shocked and deeply saddened by the news that our newly appointed coach Neale Carroll passed away on Tuesday. Cowboy had instantly made a positive impact on the playing group. Although not knowing him for long, it was quickly evident that Neale was a man larger than life that loved his footy. He will be sorely missed.
The Northern Football League posted this tribute on their website (www.nfl.org.au):
| It is with great sadness that the Northern Football League community mourns the tragic passing of Neale 'Cowboy' Carroll. Neale was a massive presence around the NFL, having had stints with Northcote Park, Greensborough and Diamond Creek in his 30 years involved in the league.
In 1998, Neale was the first Diamond Valley Football League player to play 300 A Grade games, and was subsequently inducted as the 58th Life Member of the DVFL. Northern Football League Football Operations Manager Jarrad Carey, a former Greensborough Under 19s player, led the tributes for Neale.
"Cowboy was one of the older blokes when I first came down (to Greensborough), but he seemed to take a real interest in the young kids coming through at the club," said Carey.
"Despite the early time slot of the 19s he was always at the huddles during matches and it wasn't hard to hear him barracking from the sidelines." In recent years I got to reacquaint myself with the great man in my role as Footy Ops Manager for the league. He hadn't changed one bit and was one person I always looked forward to bumping into around the traps."
I was lucky enough to share a few quiet bourbons at the Bundy Pub with him following the 2009 NFL Presentation Night and it will remain a great memory - even when he tried to coax a former AFL Vic staff member back to his garage for a few friendly rounds of boxing at 3am once the drinks dried up."
What you saw was what you got with Neale Carroll. He was a real footballer's footballer and had the respect from everyone he played, and coached, against. Cowboy's status as a DVFL Life Member affirms that and the football community is all the poorer for his passing."
Neale originally joined Northcote Park in 1981 - the Cougars' first year in the competition - and played seven Senior and 14 Reserves games in his first season. He was a member of Northcote Park's 1985 Division 2 Senior premiership side, and played Division 1 football with the Cougars in 1986.
After Northcote Park were relegated back to Division 2 at the end of the 1986 season, Neale stayed in Division 1, transferring across to Greensborough after 102 Senior and 15 Reserve games with the Cougars.
From 1987 onwards, Neale played with Greensborough and was a member of the Boro's 1988 and 1989 Division 1 Senior premiership teams, as well as featuring in the 1987, 1990, 1991 and 1994 finals campaigns. By the time he retired in 2001, he had played over 435 Senior games, including 355 in Division 1.
In recent years, Neale coached Diamond Creek to the 2005 Division 2 Senior premiership and led them into Division 1 until the end of 2007. He then became the Greensborough Division 1 Senior coach from 2008 until the end of 2010. Neale was set to coach Warrandyte Football Club in the Eastern Football League this year.
A respected figure wherever he went, Neale will be sorely missed around the northern Melbourne community. The Northern Football League Board and staff offer their deepest condolences to the Carroll family during this tough time.
Neale's funeral will be held on Wednesday February 16 at St Mary's Primary School, Greensborough from 11am. The wake will follow at the Greensborough Football Club.
Carroll to Coach Bloods in 2011
January 13th, 2011
After an extensive search and interview process, Warrandyte Football Club is excited to announce the appointment of Neale Carroll as Senior Coach for 2011. Neale has a long and decorated playing and coaching history and will bring a fresh approach to the club. The search for a new coach began in earnest after 2009/10 Senior Coach Michael Tout advised the club of his intention to step down from the role due to personal reasons immediately following the 2010 season.
Neale Carroll began his playing career at Northcote Park in the Northern Football League (then Diamond Valley Football League), playing in three Premierships including one as captain, and winning a Best and Fairest along the way. He later played in two Premierships at Greensborough FC, winning two A and four B Grade Grade Best and Fairest awards, and was named in the GFC Team of the Century.
When he finally hung up the boots after 24 years, Carroll had played an incredible 435 senior games, including 355 A Grade (Division 1) games, a DVFL/NFL record.
After gaining experience in an Assistant Coaching role at Greensborough from 2000-2002, Carroll accepting the Senior Coaching role at Diamond Creek Football Club, taking them from cellar dwellars to finalists in 2003 and 2004 before winning an elusive Premiership in 2005. Later returning to coach Greensborough from 2008-2010, Carroll now joins the Bloods with some fresh ideas to take Warrandyte FC to the next level.
Pre-season training resumes on Monday 24th January at Mullum Mullum Reserve in Donvale - feel free to come down to watch the Bloods train and introduce yourself to Neale.
News 2010
Warrandyte Reserve to be redeveloped under a Coalition Government
October 31st, 2010
Ryan Smith, Member for Warrandyte, announced today that, under a Baillieu Government, Warrandyte Reserve would undergo a major redevelopment.
With an initial investment from a Baillieu Government of $800,000, additional local council and community contributions will mean that significant funds will be available for the project.
"I am delighted to be able to make this substantial commitment to the future of the Warrandyte Reserve and to the many people who enjoy the Reserve's facilities", said Mr Smith.
"Players and supporters of the Warrandyte Netball Club, Cricket Club, Football Club and Junior Football Club will all benefit from this investment." Warrandyte's sporting clubs are the lifeblood of the community, and many of Warrandyte's families are involved in the clubs in a variety of ways.
"Whether it be in the raising of funds for the respective clubs, in cheering their team to victory or being part of Warrandyte’s successful teams, Warrandyte Reserve is a focal point for the many volunteers and sports men and women in our community."
"I am extremely proud of those who have worked tirelessly in lobbying for the very necessary upgrades to this valuable community asset. These people have given an enormous amount of time to achieve this outcome, and I am thrilled that they have been rewarded with this funding commitment."
Best and Fairest 2010
September 28th, 2010
EFL Team of the Year Squad Announced
September 2nd, 2010
Bloods Bundled Out
August 30th, 2010
Warrandyte Seniors and Reserves were both bundled out of the EFL Premiership race on the first day of finals at Ringwood's Jubilee Park recently. On what was a disappointing day for the club, the Seniors were beaten by 27 points at the hands of Doncaster, while the Reserves suffered a 65 points loss against Chirnside Park. Despite a strong finish to the season, the Under 18s narrowly missed participating in finals after finishing in fifth place.
Seniors
In typically blustery August conditions at the massive Jubilee Park ground, the Bloods were slow out of the blocks against a Doncaster side that appeared switched on early. It was a defensive start to the game with neither side able to register a goal before Doncaster's Pat Considine marked in the forward fifty twice within two minutes to open up a narrow early lead. Kicking with the aid of the gusty wind, the Bloods finally pinpointed a marking option up forward late in the final term with Michael Morello on the end of a clever pass from veteran Matt Wood. Another goal to Morello in quick succession saw the Bloods carry a two point lead into the quarter time break. It was this failure to capitalise on the 3-4 goal wind in the first quarter which would ultimately hurt the slow starting Warrandyte side.
The second quarter saw Doncaster again with the early running, as the Bloods struggled to break past their half forward line. Four goals in just twelve minutes to the Sharks gave them a very handy 23 point lead and Warrandyte supporters scratching their heads. To their credit the Warrandyte backline held strong in the second half of the second term, repelling a number of Doncaster attacks, but time and time again the Bloods failed to string enough clean possessions together to penetrate inside fifty. A scoreless quarter for Warrandyte left them with a 26 point half time deficit and a lot of work to do.
Needing a big third quarter with the wind, the Bloods got off to the best possible start with an early goal to Clint Kennedy, but it was soon nullified by Doncaster's third goal for the day at the non-scoring northern end of the ground. Doncaster were winning most of the clearances around the ground while the Bloods were struggling to work themselves back into a match that was quickly seeming out of reach. Warrandyte's young gun Shane Biggs kicked his first for the day with a touch of class, before big Al Wise marked a Ben Taylor bomb in the goal square and all of a sudden the margin was back to 12 points. Inaccuracy in front of goal again hurting the Bloods with three goals five behinds for the quarter.
Going into the final term with the huge task of scoring at least two goals into the stiff breeze while holding Doncaster goalless, the Bloods needed a minor miracle to have any hope of pursuing their premiership aspirations into preliminary finals week. Unfortunately Doncaster had other plans and two goals within six minutes put paid to any slim hope of a Warrandyte comeback. To their credit the Bloods fought it out valiantly and held Doncaster two just the two goals for the quarter, the eventual margin 27 points.
Best players for Warrandyte on a disappointing day were Ben Reid, Dan Large and Captain Tom Naughtin. Doncaster have since gone on to defeat North Ringwood and will now face Upper Ferntree Gully in the Division Three Grand Final on Sunday at Jubilee Park.
Doncaster 9.14 - 68 def. Warrandyte 5.11 - 41
Goal Kickers: M. Morello 2, A. Wise, S. Biggs, C. Kennedy Best Players: D. Large, T. Naughtin, A. Tsapatsaris, B. Reid, C. Vanflorestein, S. Christopher
Reserves
The Reserves were also slow starters against a Chirnside Park side they had convincingly beaten at Warrandyte in late June. Chirnside Park had the aid of the breeze in the first quarter and were the first on the board with two early goals. Ross Ansaldi kept the Bloods in touch with a hard running goal midway through the first term after also being involved in the same passage of play starting on the Warrandyte half back line. With just the one goal for the quarter the Bloods went into the first huddle 14 points adrift.
The second quarter was a scrappy affair with neither side gaining the upper hand. A quick clearance and strong mark to Justin Khouri in the Warrandyte forward line pegged the margin back before a Chirnside Park goal into the wind again put them 14 points ahead. Both teams struggled to gain clean possession across half forward as Warrandyte failed to capitalise on the 3-4 goal wind. A second goal to Khouri midway through the term again reduced the Chirnside Park lead to nine points at half time.
Unfortunately for the Bloods the match was effectively over about fifteen minutes into the third term as Chirnside Park dominated possession in the midfield, piling on five unanswered goals before Warrandyte were able to enter their forward fifty. Another two goals to Chirnside Park left Warrandyte reeling and facing a 55 point three quarter time margin.
A lacklustre final quarter saw the Bloods only able to kick one further goal, another to Khouri, while Chirnside Park rubbed salt into the wound with another two goals against the wind. On a dirty day for the Bloods, Warrandyte's better players were Watson, Khouri and Ansaldi.
Chirnside Park have since beaten Boronia in the Preliminary Final and will face the undefeated North Ringwood in the Reserves Grand Final on Sunday.
Warrandyte 4.3 - 27 def by. Chirnside Park 13.14 - 92
Goal Kickers: J. Khouri 3, R. Ansaldi Best Players: C. Watson, D. Beasley, R. Ansaldi, J. Buhagiar, J. Khouri, P. Burgoyne
WFC Team of the Decade 2000-2009
August 13th, 2010
Warrandyte Football Club recently announced their Team of the Decade for 2000-2009. Promoted to Division Two after the 1999 Premiership win, The Bloods struggled in 2000 and were relegated back to Division Three after struggling to three wins for the year. The early 2000's saw moderate success in Division Three culminating in an elimination final loss in torrential rain at Jubilee Park in 2003, where just two goals were scored for the entire match. 2004 started well and the Bloods were in the four after six rounds, but the season fell away from there. With the arrival of coach Peter Green in 2005 the club entered a rebuilding phase with renewed focus on local youth. The revival of the Under 18s was key to any future success.
2005 saw the Bloods fighting for relegation, and despite brave efforts were unable to avoid the drop down to Division Four for the first time in the club's history. As Lee Tindale fortuitously wrote however, they were "just passing through", and a fairytale end to the season saw Warrandyte slip into second place in the final round before a 1 point win over The Basin in the qualifying final. A 22 point win over Whitehorse in the Grand Final gave the Bloods their sixth Premiership.
Back up to Division Three and 2007 was another tough year, the Bloods narrowly able to avoid relegation due to the inclusion of two new clubs into the EFL. 2008 saw the departure of Green and the arrival of Graeme Hocking as coach, and with a high rotation of players through the senior team failing to allow the side to settle, the Bloods again struggled, despite the emergence of several young stars.
In 2009 Michael Tout replaced Hocking and brought with him a coaching team including Billy McCormack and Warrandyte legend Dale Vitiritti, to immediate success. The young Bloods exceeded all expectations and finished third, winning a first final against Whitehorse before losing to Upper Gully in the second week of finals.
A decade of ups and downs - and below are the best that Warrandyte has had to offer over the last ten years.
|
Team of the Decade 2000 - 2009 |
| Backs: |
Grant McAdam |
Stewart Rough |
Rick Templeton |
| Half Backs: |
Ben Reid |
Dion Mullett-Treloar |
Dale Vitiritti |
| Centre: |
Liam Riley |
Matt Wood (c) |
Aidan Davey |
| Half Forward: |
Todd Holman |
Guy Taylor |
Lee Evans |
| Forwards: |
Craig Dick |
Mick Morello |
Chris Cornell |
| Rucks: |
Kimberly O'Connor |
Tom Naughtin (vc) |
Matt Blagrove |
| Interchange: |
Glen Carle |
Josh Eyre |
|
|
Matt Treeby |
Warren Reuhland |
|
Upper Gully Too Strong
July 18th, 2010
Seniors
Upper Gully 13.8 - 86 def Warrandyte 5.8 - 38
Goal Kickers: M. Wood 2, C. Kennedy 2, C. Wheatley
Best Players: M. Wood, C. Vanflorestein, T. Beasley, B. Reid, M. Feben
Reserves
Upper Gully 1.5 - 11 def by Warrandyte 17.19 - 121
Goal Kickers: D. Bryant 5, J. Logan 2, A. Gamble 2, G. Carle, L. Brewis, J. Bentley, J. Buhagiar, C. Atkinson, C. Haskings, L. Whitfield, R. Mullett Treloar
Best Players: J. Burgoyne, C. Haskings, L. Naughtin, G. Godwin, R. Mullett Treloar, D. Bryant
Colts
Upper Gully 6.11 - 47 def by Warrandyte 1.7 - 13
Goal Kickers: A. Batsanis
Best Players: A. Sabo, S. Trenfield, A. Reddie, D. Caldwell, Z. Bentley
WFC Joins GreenHouse League
July 13th, 2010
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Warrandyte FC has joined the GreenHouse League for this season. We are now calling on all of our members to sign up and join in to help us meet our fundraising goal.
The GreenHouse League is a challenge for footy and netball clubs where club member households get involved to help the environment. Each week of the challenge, your household completes energy, water and waste saving actions that reduce your family's impact on the planet. | Each action you complete and report earns points and raises money for our club.
Our goal is reduce our carbon footprint. So join our team, take action and help us score! The challenge runs for 8 weeks and there are great prizes for households as well as clubs. There are environmental actions everyone can take to earn us points. And your household will save on energy and water bills too!
The GreenHouse League kicks off on July 19, and for your household to be part of our club team you must register to participate now. Join the team and help the planet while you earn rewards for our club.
Register now at the GreenHouse League website: www.greenhouseleague.vic.gov.au
Our Club Code is GHL00007
Shark Revenge
July 11th, 2010
Seniors
Warrandyte 16.15 - 101 defeated Doncaster 7.6 - 48
Goal Kickers: M. Morello 5, S. Biggs 3, B. Taylor 2, C. Wheatley 2, B. Reid, M. Feben, C. Kennedy, T. Naughtin
Best Players: B. Reid, M. Morello, C. Wheatley, D. Hand, C. Vanflorestein, D. Large
Reserves
Warrandyte 11.12 - 78 defeated Doncaster 8.3 - 51
Goal Kickers: L. Whitfield 3, D. Bryant 2, J. Logan, J. Bowen, G. Carle, T. Konrad, L. Naughtin, C. Haskings
Best Players: C. Watson, D. Bryant, C. Haskings, J. Bowen, L. Whitfield, L. Naughtin
Colts
In perfect early morning conditions on Saturday, the Warrandyte under eighteens met an aggressive, professional and well-drilled outfit in Doncaster at Taroona Reserve. The hosts were no match for Doncaster from the first bounce as the visitors dominated centre bounces with slick, coherent set ups that had Warrandyte on the back foot early. Apart from a goal to Haikal who read the ball well to mark and convert from fifty, all the early forward thrusts were to the other end of the ground.
Keen to regroup after the break, Warrandyte refused to give in at quarter-time and resumed full of determination. Doncaster, however, continued to win most of the contests in the second quarter although Warrandyte's Appleby was strong at ground level and collected numerous possessions. By half-time the Bloods were a long way behind on the scoreboard but to their credit were eager to persist.
A bone-crunching shepherd from Williams seemed to provide the spark that Warrandyte needed, but midway through the third quarter, it was too late. From that moment, however, the Bloods were more intense at the contest and showed an urgency that was lacking earlier. Chapman and Heffernan battled hard throughout the second quarter while Bowen was steady in defence. Sabo provided much-needed run-and-carry and it was pleasing to see the lads continue to back themselves because when they are at their best, they are good enough to compete with the best teams in the competition. A more aggressive and committed start will be required in future matches if this team is to perform to its potential.
Warrandyte 5.11 - 41 lost to Doncaster 20.7 - 127
Goal kickers: J. Ellis, A. Haikal, T. Appleby, J. Rudolph, J. Nicholls
Best Players: T. Appleby, A. Sabo, P. Heffernan, R. Bowen, S. Williams, J. Miller
Muddy Bloods Rudded
July 5th, 2010
Seniors
It was always going to be tough for the Bloods to come back from a goalless first half, and despite working their way back into the match to get within two straight kicks late in the final term it proved too big a task on Saturday. In drizzling rain and on a ground covered in three inches of mud, Warrandyte were slow out of the blocks and it took a half time bake from Michael Tout to get them moving.
Led from the backline by the reliable Adam Tsapatsaris and Dion Mullet-Treloar, the Bloods mounted an unlikely comeback with two early goals in the final term, including a rare Brian Lake-like running goal from full back Matt Feben, but were unable to edge in front. Luke Dunn kicked two goals in the final term in his best match since returning from injury.
North Ringwood 10.5 - 65 def Warrandyte 7.10 - 52
Goal Kickers: L. Dunn 2, C. Kennedy, B. Reid, M. Morello, C. Wheatley, M. Feben
Best Players: D. Mullett Treloar, J. Boyce, Z. Bentley, T. Hookey, L. Dunn, M. Wood
Reserves
In a remarkable scoreline, the Reserves managed four straight goals in tough conditions, while North Ringwood registered four goals and fifteen behinds. Around half of those behinds were rushed through at the last line of defence by the Warrandyte backmen.
Best on ground for the Bloods were veteran flanker Glen Carle and the reliable and improving Troy Konrad, who also snuck forward for a goal. Warrandyte retains third spot on the EFL ladder.
North Ringwood 4.15 - 39 def Warrandyte 4.0 - 24
Goal Kickers: J. Buhagiar, T. Konrad, J. Khouri, D. Bryant
Best Players: T. Konrad, C. Haskings, C. Watson, B. Tobin, J. Buhagiar, G. Carle
Colts
The Warrandyte U/18s faced the North Ringwood juggernaut in tough conditions at Quambee Reserve on Saturday. On top of the ladder and undefeated, North Ringwood have been a formidable combination throughout the year but the visitors went into the game with some confidence due to a relatively even contest fought out between the teams in their round three encounter, when North Ringwood finished strongly to rercord a 22-point win.
Clean ball handling and disposal were extremely difficult from the outset as both sides tried hard to gain the early ascendancy. Appleby continued his strong form of recent weeks as McKee provided first use to the on-ballers, who worked tirelessly throughout the first half but found North Ringwood's pressure overwhelming. Bowen added stability to the back half when he came on and Miller read the play with precision from a back pocket.
The Saints kicked away after half-time as the Bloods struggled to keep in touch but to thier credit continued to win their share of contested balls, which is an important statistic with finals looming. Skill errors led to costly turnovers, however, as North Ringwood had slightly more poise in the greasy conditions. The young Bloods will be eager to continue their good form over the coming weeks.
North Ringwood 10.10 - 70 def Warrandyte 3.2 - 20
Goal kickers: Unavailable
Best Players: Unavailable
Tiger Tamers
May 29th, 2010
Seniors
The seniors fronted up to Walker park for another must win clash against our new rivals. A win would see the bloods with an opportunity to be at the pointy end of the ladder come the Queens birthday Weekend, a loss meant slipping back into the host of teams vying for the 3rd and 4th spots on the ladder. Sensing how big a clash this was the boys appear focused and ready to play in the first quarter. Despite Mitcham posting the first major of the day the bloods restless pressure around the footy saw the balance eventually swing Warrandytes way and (thanks to some accurate finishing) kicked away to an early
The second term saw Warrandyte stamp their dominance on the match with an 8 goals to 3 quarter. Morello was starting to find space and Clint Wheatley continued to turn back the clock since his return to the bloods in 2009 by dominating the centre corridor and chipping in with two goals of his own. The backline continued to hold Mitchams dangerous forwards quite. 2010 recruit Cameron Van Florenstein was doing a job on Marcus Kenny who is leading the EFL 3rd division goals kicking and Feben and Tsapataris were creating havoc for Mitcham with accurate kicking and hard running from the half back line.
In recent weeks 3rd quarters had been the bloods achilles heal, preferring to switch off rather than put teams to the sword. Coach Michael Tout used the half time break to drum the importance of putting together a four quarter effort and sending a message that the bloods were serious contenders in season 2010. The Warrandyte faithful were rewarded for sticking around as the senior team led by Ben Reid and Tim Beasley in the midfield continued to smother Mitcham with sustained pressure and aggressive tackling. Again the back six held the Mitcham hired guns quite and although only adding 4 goals to their score, the bloods held Mitcham to just 1 goal of their own.
Warrandyte controlled the game in the last term against a Mitcham side that never gave up but was simply well held in key positions on the ground. Luke Dunn showed glimpses of his best in his return to the seniors from a long term shoulder injury and Zach Bentley made an impressive debut coming into the senior side from the under 18s and Shane Biggs again showed he will be a handful for his opponents wether up forward or through the middle of the ground.
Mitcham 11.16 - 82 def by Warrandyte 25.14 - 164
Goal Kickers:
Best Players:
Reserves
In a scrappy opening quarter Warrandyte dominating general play in the reserves clash against Mitcham but failed to capitalise on their opportunities and hurt Mitcham on the scoreboard. Showers began to fall in the second term which benefited a bigger bodied Mitcham side. At half time it was Mitcham leading by 5 points.
It was fair to say that the coaching staff were not that happy as the boys trudged off and they received an old fashioned bake. Whatever seconds coach and club stalwart Ash Grybas said had the desired effect in the third term. Warrandyte came out full of running in the second half and slammed on 7 goals to put the game beyond doubt at three quarter time. Warrandytes small men were finally first to the ball and were being rewarded for their efforts with some straight shooting up forward from Jimmy Logan and Clint Kennedy.
The last term continued in the same vein and saw Warrandyte record a 50 point win. Daniel Bryant continued his hot streak in front of goal by booting 5 majors, James Logan kicked 3 and Clint Kennedy on his return from a stint working in Fiji also kicked three. Flynn Jarvis was awarded best afield honours for his outstanding ruck work and never say die attitude.
Mitcham 11.4 - 70 def by Warrandyte 19.6 - 120
Goal Kickers: D. Bryant 5, J. Logan 3, C. Kennedy 3, G. Carle 3, F. Jarvis 2, J Buhagiar, C Haskings, B. Tobin.
Best: F. Jarvis, G. Carle, C. Kennedy, J. Logan, J. Buhagair, B. Tobin
Colts
The under 18s recorded their 5th win for the season beating Mitcham by 41 points at Walker Park. Slippery conditions greeted both sides as the game got underway, this was evident with handling errors on both sides marring the first quarter of play. It was Warrandyte who adjusted to the challenging conditions first and managed to boot 5 majors to nil before half time in what was shaping as a low scoring affair.
As the ground dried out in the 3rd quarter the skill level from both sides improved and this saw the game open and scoring become more frequent. Although Mitcham managed just 2 goals 2 for the quarter it could have been much worse for the bloods as if it wasnt for some resolute defending from Jack Ellis and Sam Williams (returning from suspension) the game could have been much closer at 3 quarter time.
A timely reminder from Brian and Ben saw the boys fly out of the blocks early in the last and pile on two quick goals to seal the win. Jack Ellis played a pivotal role in the ruck, dominating the centre circle and was dangerous when resting up forward booting 4 goals earning him best on field honours. Other good contributors were Harris, Rudolph, Versteegen and Buruma who chimed in when it counted with three majors of his own.
Mitcham 6.9 - 45 def by Warrandyte 12.14 - 86
Goal Kickers: J. Ellis 4, N. Buruma 3, R. Bowen 2, A. Batsanis, A. Reddie, T.Denham
Best Players: J. Ellis, J. Harris, J. Rudolph, A. Batsanis, T. Versteegen, S. Williams
Three Cougars Thanks
May 22nd, 2010
Seniors
The Seniors led from start to finish against Kilsyth on Saturday, finishing with a six goal to two final quarter to record a 67 point victory. For the first time in weeks the Bloods kicked more goals than points, and in a pleasing return from injury Adam Tsapatsaris was best on ground, while Big Al Wise and the young Caleb Atkinson were impressive on debut. There were six multiple goal kickers.
Warrandyte 21.18.144 def Kilsyth 12.5-77
Goal Kickers: M. Morello 4, M. Wood 3, C. Wheatley 3, S. Christopher 3, H. Hosking 2, A. Wise 2, S. Biggs, B. Taylor, A. Tsapatsaris, C. Atkinson
Best Players: A. Tsapatsaris, M. Feben, H. Hosking, T. Beasley, C. Vanflorestein, M. Wood
Reserves
The twos were full of confidence after a come from behind win against Doncaster last week, and a win was never in doubt after a five goal to nil first quarter. Despite letting the foot off the accelerator in the second term, the Bloods led by 29 points at half time before the game opened up in the second half allowing Warrandyte to power home to record a 66 point victory. It was a day for the Old Balls contingent with over 30's Glen Carle and Ryan Cullen best afield for the Bloods.
Warrandyte 13.13-91 def Kilsyth 3.7-25
Goal Kickers: J. Logan 3, L. Dunn 2, D. Hand 2, D. Bryant 2, J. Buhagiar, G. Carle, C. Haskings, L. Brewis
Best Players: G. Carle, R. Cullen, J. Buhagiar, P. Burgoyne, L. Brewis, D. Hand
Colts
The Warrandyte Under 18s returned to the top four when they accounted for an undermanned Kilsyth at home on Saturday. The lads started well with mid-fielders combining strongly to win centre clearances and give the forwards numerous opportunities. The inclusion of Appleby to the centre bounce structure certainly bolstered the on-ball department. McKee and Ellis were dominant talls and Reddie followed instructions brilliantly, providing run and support from his wing. At quarter time, Warrandyte had already opened up a handy lead.
The young bloods continued along the same vein during the second quarter until a lapse in concentration and intensity allowed the visitors in for two consecutive late goals that took some of the polish off an otherwise excellent half. Without panic at half-time, the boys resolved to keep the opposition out of the contest for the rest of the game.
Early in the third quarter the young Bloods were able to re-assert themselves over their opponents and didn't give Kilsyth another look-in. Bentley was the best mid-fielder for the third consecutive week and continued to show class, strength and courage while Appleby wasn't far behind. Bowen was an effective reader of the play and Rudolph was strong in the air. Eventually Warrandyte ground their opponents out of the contest and ran out easy winners.
Notably, the boys were well aware after the game that a couple of tougher opponents loom on the horizon and more consistent form will be required if they are to hold on to their spot in the four.
Warrandyte 16.15-111 def Kilsyth/Montrose 3.1-19
Goal Kickers: A. Haikal 4, J. Rudolph 3, Z. Bentley 3, T. Peter-Budge 2, C. Kovarik, M. Chimenton, T. Appleby, J. Harris
Best Players: Z. Bentley, A. Haikal, T. Appleby, R. Bowen, J. Ellis, A. Reddie
Sharks Draw Blood
May 17th, 2010
Seniors
After two hard fought victories in the previous two weeks, the Bloods went to Shark Park on Saturday confident that they could cause an upset against undefeated Doncaster. Unfortunately confidence was not enough as Doncaster inflicted the Bloods' biggest loss so far in 2010.
Inaccuracy in front of goal again hurt Warrandyte early in the match, with 6 behinds registered before their first major. At half time Doncaster led 11.7-73 to Warrandyte 3.7-25.
The second half was a more even affair, with the Bloods applying more pressure to their Doncaster opponents and delivery into the Warrandyte forward line improving. Six goals apiece in the third term gave the Sharks a 50 point three quarter time lead.
In a lacklustre final term, with the game's result beyond doubt, the Sharks kicked four goals to Warrandyte's two to record a 63 point victory. Best for the Bloods were Tim Beasley and Tom Naughtin, with Adam Gamble the target up forward with four goals. Doncaster remain undefeated on the top of the EFL ladder with six wins while Warrandyte sit sixth, with an important match against Kilsyth at home this Saturday.
Doncaster 21.14-140 def Warrandyte 11.11-77
Goal Kickers: A. Gamble 4, R. Ansaldi 2, M. Morello 2, C. Wheatley 2, S. Biggs
Best Players: A. Gamble, C. Wheatley, M. Morello, R. Ansaldi, S. Biggs
Reserves
The twos were slow out of the blocks on Saturday and found themselves trailing at the quarter time and half time breaks. With Doncaster maintaining a narrow lead early in the final term, it was persistant pressure from Warrandyte onballers coupled with superior fitness that enabled the Bloods to claw back the lead. A one handed grab from Daniel Bryant and handball over the top to Jarrod Boyce in the goal square gave the Bloods an eleven point advantage before another mark and goal from Bryant sealed the win for Warrandyte.
Bryant finished with four goals, with Paul Burgoyne and Rowan Mullet-Treloar also among Warrandyte's best. Big Al Wise also showed some great signs in his first game for the Bloods after several years away from the game. Warrandyte now sit in third place on the EFL ladder with four wins and two losses, with a healthy percentage of 161.24%
Doncaster 9.9-63 def by Warrandyte 12.8-80
Colts
The Warrandyte under 18s faced another formidable opponent in their Round six encounter with Doncaster on May 15th. Played on the magnificent Scramms Reserve, the match began with Doncaster gaining the ascendancy from the outset. With more speed and class around the ground, they were able to use the ball more effectively; with more strength at the contests, they were able to force Warrandyte errors and win more contested possessions. Throughout the early stages, Doncaster were regularly first to the ball, although strong tackling from Caldwell and Bentley lifted the young Bloods' spirit. Generally, the visitors seemed intimidated.
Warrandyte re-grouped during a soul-searching half-time break and the lads certainly played with more confidence in the second half. Bentley continued to collect numerous possessions and was again Warrandyte's best mid-fielder. Other players to show impressive perseverance were Nick and Aaron Batsanis, Ellis, Reddie, Peter-Budge and McKee. The boys showed admirable character to battle the game out but were well below their best and need to reverse the trend if they are to remain a competitive force amongst the league leaders.
Doncaster 18.9-117 def Warrandyte 7.9-51
Goal Kickers: A. Batsanis, N. Batsanis, M. Chimenton, L. Jackson, A. Haikal, J. Ellis, K. Windhofer
Best Players: N. Batsanis, A. Haikal, Z. Bentley, A. Batsanis, T. Peter-Budge, S. Cardamone
Two Outta Three Aint Bad
May 9th, 2010
Seniors
Warrandyte held off a fast finishing Upper Ferntree Gully on Saturday to record an eight point victory and move to fifth on the EFL ladder. In bright sunshine at Warrandyte Reserve the Bloods shot out of the blocks like Usain Bolt, with a shell shocked and flat footed Upper Gully side watching helpless as Warrandyte skipped away to a handy early lead.
It was all one way traffic in the first twelve minutes as Warrandyte repeatedly worked the ball forward with clean hands and precision passes. Matt Wood delivered lace out to Morello who kicked truly, before Clint Wheatley snapped a clever goal from the pocket. Goals to Tom Roberts and Steve Christopher in quick succession gave the Bloods a valuable head start before Upper Gully could register their first goal. With Dion Mullett-Treloar given the tough job on Jay Sherlock, and Matt Feben looking after Matt Petracca, the Bloods were wary of the dangerous Upper Gully forward line that did so much damage in the two sides 2009 Semi Final clash. As both sides settled into the tempo of the game the quarter finished with both sides trading goals, with the Bloods holding a 31 point advantage at quarter time.
It was Upper Gully who kicked the first after the quarter time break, no doubt with the words of their coach still ringing in their ears. Another goal to Morello steadied the Bloods before Upper Gully came again, with some Warrandyte skill errors causing turnovers directly resulting in Upper Gully shots on goal. Unfortunately for the Bloods, when they did win the ball through the midfield and deliver into their forward line it was often wasted, with poor kicking in front of goal spreading like the flu from one forward to the next.
Both sides registered six scoring shots in the second term, with Upper Gully’s four goals to Warrandyte’s wasteful one narrowing the half time margin to fourteen points.
The third term had the Warrandyte crowd abuzz with the arrival of Shane Biggs, in his first senior game for Warrandyte after starring in last year’s Under 18 side. Biggs found his feet quickly and looked very much at home in the Warrandyte forward line, swooping on a loose ball 25m from goal before calmly goaling a left foot snap. Perhaps more pleasing, late in the quarter Biggs closed quickly on a fumbling Upper Gully backman before gaining possession and chipping over the top to an unmanned Matt Wood for an easy shot on goal. It is this kind of forward pressure that Warrandyte has sorely lacked in recent weeks.
Also impressive, in his second senior appearance after debuting in Round Four against Chirnside Park, the young Hamish Hoskings began to impose himself in ruck contests around the ground despite some attempted physical intimidation from a more experienced Upper Gully opponent. Hosking also took several contested marks around the ground, and won the love of the parochial Warrandyte crowd with the best "don't argue" fend off seen since Peter Green’s finals series in 2006.
With inaccuracy in front of goal a real concern in recent weeks, the Bloods again struggled to convert opportunities in the third term, with four goals and six behinds in comparison the Upper Gully's five goals three. Despite eight more scoring shots, the Bloods found themselves just thirteen points in front at the final break, with Michael Tout telling his side for the second week in a row that they must attack in the final quarter to win the game.
The final term was a bit of a see saw battle with first blood to Upper Gully, before mercurial Warrandyte forward Adam Gamble marked strongly twenty metres out on a slight angle. Gamble's kick sprayed off the side of the boot, before a turnover from the Upper Gully kick in allowed him to pounce on a loose ball and snap truly from deep within the opposite pocket.
A goal to Sherlock despite close attention from Mullett-Treloar narrowed the margin once again before Warrandyte pushed deep into attack, a rushed behind the result. The Upper Gully ruckman punched the ball forward from the resultant kick in, clearly a set play as the Upper Gully midfielders broke from defence in numbers and converged on the loose ball in the centre of the ground. A quick kick forward left the Warrandyte defenders out positioned and just like that Upper Gully had hit the lead for the first time in the match, with just minutes remaining.
With time ticking and running on tired legs, the Bloods worked hard to work the ball forward, before Morello took a strong contested mark forty metres out directly in front. While the Warrandyte crowd could not sit still, the goal umpire did not move as the ball sailed directly over his head to regain the lead for the Bloods.
It was more tight, contested football as Upper Gully again threatened to retake the lead. A turnover at half back and a kick forward left Grant McAdam to take a one handed contested mark at the last line of defence, before switching the ball to Ben Taylor on the half back flank. A long kick down the line to Lee Evans who had been providing a target all day and the ball was back in the Warrandyte forward line. Upper Gully again threatened to clear before a turnover and quick kick found first-gamer Shane Biggs alone about 35 metres out on a slight angle.
Biggs calmly slotted the goal, his fourth for the day in an impressive debut, before the siren sounded on a hard fought Warrandyte victory over a highly fancied opposition.
Coach Michael Tout said after the game that the most pleasing aspect of the win was the side's ability to step up despite the absence of several key players due to injury. "It's hard when we are without guys like Tsapatsaris, Reid, Torney, Dunn and Luke Naughtin" said Tout, "but the other boys have stepped up and taken responsibility for the team’s performance. It's these types of wins that we get the most out of."
With Reid likely to return next match after missing a week with concussion, and Tsapatsaris a few weeks away, it is exciting times for the young Bloods side, who next week take on the undefeated Doncaster.
Warrandyte 16.19-115 def Upper Gully 16.11-107
Goal Kickers: S. Biggs 4, M. Morello 3, C. Wheatley 3, A. Gamble 2, M. Wood, L. Evans, T. Roberts, S. Christopher
Best Players: D. Mullett Treloar, H. Hosking, M. Wood, D. Large, T. Hookey, S. Biggs
Reserves
The Warrandyte Reserves have recovered from two disappointing losses to beat a determined Upper Gully side on Saturday.
The return of key midfielders Cal Haskings and Jarrod Boyce, in for his first game of 2010, certainly made a difference with some added physicality through the middle of the ground. Despite a quick start from Upper Gully, who led by sixteen points at quarter time, the Bloods proved the stronger side after the first break. James Logan led the way up forward with four goals, relishing the opportunity to kick goals after spending the majority of his illustrious career in the back half of the ground. In an even spread, Daniel Bryant kicked three, while Kennedy, Brewis and Whitfield kicked two apiece. Warrandyte co-captain Grant Godwin was also among the best for the Bloods, who move to third on the EFL ladder.
Warrandyte 17.11-113 def Upper Gully 11.2-68
Goal Kickers: J. Logan 4, D. Bryant 3, C. Kennedy 2, L. Brewis 2, L. Whitfield 2, T. Konrad, J. Bentley, R. Mullett Treloar, D. Hand
Best Players: G. Godwin, J. Logan, J. Boyce, C. Kennedy, D. Bryant, D. Hand
Under 18s
In perfect conditions at Warrandyte Reserve on Saturday, the U/18 stage was set for a season-defining clash against highly-rated powerhouse Upper Ferntree Gully. The visitors got away to a strong start, winning clearances with a well-organised centre bounce structure as the Warrandyte boys tried in vain to stem the flow. Inneffective tackling and some hesitancy gave Upper Gully enough breathing space to slam on consecutive goals and come in at quarter-time a long way ahead.
Quarter-time gave Warrandyte a chance to re-assess their line-up and shift their approach to a more defensive strategy; tackling and manning up the main items on the table during discussions at the break.
Anthony Haikal went forward and provided a strong target as Warrandyte straightened up and looked more capable during a more hard-fought second quarter. Chimenton showed dash when switched to defence and Bentley and Tibb were the best of the mid-fielders.
As the second half got under way, the lads knew what was required and applied themselves with more vigour but were still unable to make significant inroads as Upper Gully's confidence at the contest was a key factor. Harris was asserting himself around the ground and Jackson showed intelligence in the forward line to set up goals that kept us in the hunt.
Goals to Harris and Haikal seemed to catch the opposition on the back foot early in the last quarter and as everyone lifted their intensity, the challenge was thrown to Upper Gully to withstand a fast-finishing Warrandyte eager to make amends for a poor start. To their credit, the visitors were able to steady and run out convincing winners while everyone at Warrandyte learned a valuable lesson in the consequences of giving a good side a head-start. On a positive note, the boys were pleased to have been able to finish the game strongly, which gives confidence for future clashes with quality opponents.
Warrandyte 9.9-63 def by Upper Gully 14.10-94
Goal Kickers: S. Trenfield 2, A. Haikal 2, C. Tibb, Z. Bentley, J. McKee, J. Harris, J. Nicholls
Best Players: S. Trenfield, A. Haikal, Z. Bentley, A. Reddie, M. Chimenton, J. Harris
BLOODS HOME IN THRILLER
May 2nd, 2010
Seniors
Warrandyte are back on the winners list after a hard fought encounter with Chirnside Park on Saturday. In a nail-biting final term, the Bloods were able to hold onto the lead despite intense pressure from Chirnside Park, three points in front when the siren finally sounded after an abnormally long fourth quarter.
Warrandyte kicked with the aid of a strong breeze and had most of the play in the first term. The Bloods unfortunately lost Ben Reid early after a heavy clash of heads, Reid stretchered from the ground to take no further part in the game. After some scrappy early football the Bloods took a 20 point lead into quarter time.
Chirnside Park used the breeze more effectively in the second term, while Warrandyte had difficulty converting in front of goal kicking into the strong wind. Skipper Tom Naughtin seemed to be everywhere, pushing deep into the backline to assist the Warrandyte defenders and also winning a lot of contested ball at stoppages around the ground. In a low scoring match, Warrandyte were one point in front at half time.
The third quarter saw the Bloods again a little bit wasteful in front of goal, a problem that has cost them in recent weeks. Lee Evans and Adam Gamble were providing dual marking options across half forward, with Clint Wheatley also getting amongst it. With a 17 point margin at the final break and Chirnside Park coming home with the wind, coach Michael Tout told his players not to try and defend the lead, but to keep attacking. "If you go defensive, they will come over the top of you" said Tout. "You must kick goals this quarter."
Kick goals they did, in the highest scoring quarter of the match. After two early goals to Chirnside Park, the Bloods responded with two of their own through Evans and Wheatley to open up a 19 point lead. Play stopped for several minutes as the Chrinside Park ruckman was carried from the field after suffering a knee injury. A quick break from the centre saw Chirnside Park goal and reduce the margin to thirteen points. Another mark and goal and the margin was down to seven, with Warrandyte supporters starting to get nervous. With time ticking, Chirnside Park kicked a behind before Morello kicked a clever goal to stretch the margin to two straight kicks.
In a nail-biting finish, Chirnside kicked another goal, then another behind. Warrandyte were unable to clear the ball from defence, twice picking out the big Chrinside Park centre-half back from the kick in. Thankfully his shots on goal went astray, and the Bloods finally cleared. Glen Carle, in his 100th appearance in the Senior side and first for 2010, was in several key contests late in the final term, with youngsters Tim Beasley and Dan Large also throwing themselves headlong into contests. With Warrandyte supporters calling for the siren as the clock ticked past 38 minutes, Jason Khouri kicked an opportunistic goal from a snap in the pocket to extend the Warrandyte lead to nine points, surely now a match winning lead.
There was more to come, however, with Chirnside clearing from the centre bounce and kicking a quick goal to again bring the margin back to three points. From the centre bounce Chirnside Park again moved the ball forward, before Mullett-Treloar took a strong, Leo Barry-esque mark deep in their forward line. With the ball cleared to the wing and out of trouble, the siren finally sounded with the Bloods three points in front, the same margin as their only other encounter at Kimberley Reserve in 2006, when then coach Peter Green kicked a goal with seconds to play to snatch an unlikely victory. The Bloods now have a 3-0 record against Chirnside Park.
Chirnside Park 12.14-86 def by Warrandyte 12.17-89
Goal Kickers: C. Wheatley 3, L. Evans 2, A. Gamble 2, M. Morello, D. Large, T. Roberts, J. Khouri, M. Wood
Best Players: D. Mullett Treloar, T. Beasley, D. Large, C. Wheatley, T. Naughtin, T. Hookey
Reserves
The Reserves struggled to find their early season form in a scrappy match against Chirnside Park, squandering the use of the wind in the first quarter before allowing their opposition to kick three goals in five minutes in a lazy period of the second term. The Bloods trailed by 20 pioints at half time.
With a tough job ahead of them the Bloods finally started to show some spirit, dominating play in the third term after Chirnside kicked the first goal to stretch the lead to 26 points. After a five goal quarter, the Bloods took a 7 point lead into the final term, with Chirnside coming home with the wind.
It was Chirnside Park who scored first in the final term, before another goal gave them a four point lead. A strong mark and goal to Daniel Bryant into the wind gave Warrandyte the lead again, before some undisciplined play allowed Chirnside Park to goal and regain the lead. Time ran out for the Bloods with Chirnside eight points in front. The Warrandyte Reserves now sit on two wins and two losses, sitting just inside the top four on percentage.
Bryant, Jones and Cullen were among Warrandyte's best, along with Joe O'Mara in his first match back from a long term injury. Clint Kennedy kicked four goals after coming back from the Seniors this week.
Chirnside Park 11.11-77 def Warrandyte 10.9-69
Goal Kickers: C. Kennedy 4, D. Bryant 2, L. Whitfield 2, J. Logan, C. Atkinson
Best Players: D. Bryant, C. Kennedy, E. Jones, R. Cullen, C. Atkinson, J. O'Mara
Colts
Despite a convincing win on the scoreboard in round four, the Warrandyte U/18s struggled at times to reproduce the flow and teamwork that had become trademarks over the first three weeks. Perhaps due to a persistent Chirnside Park, the visitors seemed lethargic and were unable to set up effective forward structures in the early stages. As a result, scoring was haphazard as Warrandyte peppered the goals from awkward angles.
The second quarter saw some improvement in teamwork as the opposition struggled to maintain their pressure on a more skilled Warrandyte. There was frustration in the visitors' rooms at half-time, however, as assistant coach Ben Torney implored the lads to be more intelligent with the ball and to use the centre corridor more assertively.
After half-time Warrandyte continued to build a massive lead as Biggs, Peter-Budge, Campbell and Tibb collected numerous possessions, setting up scoring opportunities and denying the opposition any use of the ball. In general, a scrappy game which gives little indication of how Warrandyte will fare against tougher opponents in the next few weeks.
Chirnside Park 2.8-20 def by Warrandyte 24.27-171
Goal Kickers: S. Biggs 6, T. Peter-Budge 4, T. Campbell 2, Z. Bentley 2, J. Ellis 2, C. Tibb, R. Bowen, M. Chimenton, T. Versteegen, L. Jackson, J. McKee, A. Haikal, A. Sabo
Best Players: Biggs, Peter-Budge, Campbell, Tibb
Lest We Forget
April 26th, 2010
Warrandyte players donned two black armbands on Saturday in their matches against North Ringwood. One was a mark of respect to those who lost their lives fighting for our country, the other was to remember our teammate and friend Brendan Zach. Likewise, the minute of silence before each game represented time to reflect on the tragedy of war, as well as the devastating loss of our mate last Sunday morning.
Colts
Following a big win over Coldstream in Round Two, the Under 18s keenly anticipated a much tougher assignment against North Ringwood. The match started in wet, slippery conditions but both sides were able to move the ball with some precision, although pressure and strong tackling made scoring difficult. Half-time scores were dead level at 4. 4. 28 apiece.
Chimenton was best afield at the main break with long kicking and running causing headaches in the visitors' camp. Haikal wasn't far behind with his now customary offensive dash from the backline giving impetus to the midfielders and forwards.
The Saints were able to score more easily in the third quarter but the Bloods rallied with strong bullocking work from Appleby; Biggs came into the game across half forward and Bowen was impressive across half back.
The last quarter was a desperate slog in trying conditions as Harris and McKee worked their way into the game with effective ruck-work and marks around the ground. Appleby combined beautifully with his ruckmen at centre bounces and won decisive clearances as the highly fancied North Ringwood were unable to shake off a determined Warrandyte outfit. Chimenton returned to the fray with a powerful exhibition of running football and Versteegen was busy although his inaccuracy in front of goal was costly. Cardamone's run from half-back was a feature but North Ringwood were able to steady late and hung on to be too strong on the day.
Warrandyte 9.8-62 lost to North Ringwood 12.12-84
Goal Kickers: S. Biggs 2, T. Peter-Budge 2, A. Haikal 2, L. Jackson, J. Harris, P. Heffernan
Best Players: M. Chimenton, T. Appleby, J. Harris, S. Cardamone, A. Haikal, T. Versteegen
Reserves
The Reserves were led onto the field by Geoff Zach, brother of Brendan and former Warrandyte player, granted a transfer from South Yarra Football Club to play one game for the Bloods wearing his brother's Number 20 jumper as a one-off tribute. Brendan's mum Judy, dad John and sister Cat joined the side for coach Ash Grybas' pre-match address, as Grybas asked his side to play just the way Brendan played, without fear.
In front of the biggest crowd seen at Warrandyte Reserve for some time, many of whom were there as a tribute to Brendan, the Bloods started strongly and had two goals on the board within a couple of minutes. Putting enormous pressure on their North Ringwood opponents, the Bloods kicked away to a 25 point quarter time margin, with goals to Jack Wright in his first game for 2010, Liam Whitfield and Adam Gamble, fresh off a ten goal haul against Coldstream last week.
A lapse in concentration let North Ringwood back into the match in the second quarter, and four goals in quick succession saw them draw level late in the quarter. A late goal to Warrandyte through Troy Konrad gave the Bloods a narrow seven point lead at half time.
The third quarter was an arm wrestle, with neither side able to gain the ascendancy. A turnover at centre half back directly resulted in a North Ringwood goal, before Daniel Bryant goaled to again give the Bloods the lead. North Ringwood peppered the goals, with inaccuracy the only savior for Warrandyte who were having trouble clearing the ball out of defence. North Ringwood took a three point lead into the final term, the stage set for an exciting finish.
It was North Ringwood who scored first in the fourth term, a strong mark and goal giving them a ten point lead. A goal to the Bloods through Jack Wright kept them in the contest, before North Ringwood goaled directly from a centre bounce clearance to again edge ahead. Another North Ringwood goal made the job tough for the Bloods, before a classy running goal to Ben Jackson gave them a sniff. Another goal to Konrad and the Bloods looked like they might be able to snatch an unlikely victory, before North Ringwood again cleared the ball out of the middle and goaled from inside fifty.
A Warrandyte Reserves side who had been desperate to sing the club song on a special day for the club were unfortunately not quite good enough to beat a strong side in North Ringwood. The final margin, North Ringwood by 14 points.
Warrandyte 10.10-70 lost to North Ringwood 12.12-84
Goal Kickers: T. Konrad 2, J. Wright 2, A. Gamble 2, B. Jackson 2, D. Bryant, L. Whitfield
Best Players: D. Bryant, J. Bentley, J. Bowen, J. Wright, C. Haskings, T. Konrad
Vale Brendan Zach
April 18th, 2010
As the devastating news was delivered to club members on each occasion it was greeted with shock. Disbelief that a young man with so much promise made such a fatal decision. A decision that leaves so many questions unanswered and a community grieving.
Brendan made his debut with the Warrandyte Football Club in 2006 playing 14 games with the Under 18s. It was quickly evident that he was a very capable player and seamlessly made the transition to senior football the following year. Eight games in the Firsts as an 18 year old, Brendan would regularly feature in the top grade but it was in the Reserves that his best football was seen. Early form indicated Zachy was on track to have a break out season in 2010.
Also a key player with Warrandyte Cricket Club, Brendan was the winner of the 2009 WCC - WFC All Rounder Award which was testament to his ability as a sportsman. Often spending six days a week at Warrandyte Reserve it was Zachy's home away from home. More often than not he would be there to greet you with his cheeky smile.
Off the field Brendan made a lasting impression. Always quick to remind anyone of any fallacies but also willing to be the brunt of the joke, he was a good natured person that all local clubs need. Happy to help wherever there was a shortage of volunteers and never complained about getting his hands dirty. To know that Brendan will no longer be at his club to greet us is very difficult to comprehend. A mourning process that will take some time.
Life can throw up many obstacles and often seemingly untenable situations arise. But there are always options. It might not be an easy road to travel and doesn't need to be a journey taken alone. Communicate to your friends, family or colleagues. Learn from others and be the best you can be. That is all anyone can ask.
Funeral Details
Brendan's funeral will be held 1pm Friday at St Aidan's Uniting Church, 23 Duggan St, Balwyn North, followed by burial at the Warrandyte Cemetery, Brackenbury Street, Warrandyte, arriving approx. 3 p.m. No flowers by request, donations to 'beyondblue' would be appreciated. Brendan's family request those attending the Funeral Service to wear bright coloured clothes.
Bolting Colts Jolt Coldstream
April 17th, 2010 - Round 2
In typically idyllic conditions at Coldstream, the Warrandyte U18s were methodical in their round two victory. Gaining the ascendancy at centre bounces, ruck trio Ellis, McKee and Harris provided their midfield colleagues with access to the ball and a well organised forward line were able to capitalise on quick delivery. Chimenton covered enormous ground and was an effective mobile target early.
Once they had asserted themselves, the young Bloods refused to relent and were consistently winning contested balls and maintaining possession with running link-men and precise disposal.
In the second half the pace of the game dropped marginally but Coldstream were still unable to keep up with the visitors, who seemed to gel together remarkably well in an ominous display of four-quarter football.
Warrandyte 27.15-177 def Coldstream 8.8-56
Goal Kickers: J. Ellis 5, S. Biggs 4, A. Haikal 3, T. Denham 3, R. Bowen 2, N. Lilimbakis 2, J. McHardy, N. Buruma, S. Williams, M. Chimenton, T. Appleby, L. Jackson, J. Harris
Best Players: J. Ellis, S. Biggs, R. Bowen, A. Haikal, T. Denham, T. Appleby
Headache For Arch Rivals
April 10th, 2010 - Round 1
Warrandyte have started the 2010 season with a convincing win against Whitehorse Pioneers on Saturday. In front of a sizeable crowd at Warrandyte Reserve, the Bloods led from start to finish, eventually recording a 58 point victory. The Pioneers have become something of an arch-rival in recent years, and the Bloods have generally had the upper hand, winning the 2006 Division Four Premiership and more recently the 2009 First Semi-Final. Despite having the wood over the Pioneers, Warrandyte’s recent disappointing form in practice matches against Tarwin and Glen Waverley meant the Bloods were very conscious not to underestimate their Round One opponents.
The Bloods received a rousing reception from the parochial Warrandyte crowd as they took to the field for the first time in 2010, but it was a rather lacklustre first quarter, with neither side particularly clean with their ball movement in the opening minutes. As play settled Warrandyte were able to break forward through quick hands from Matt Wood and a penetrating kick from Ben Reid and first gamer Glenn Archer marked strongly in the forward pocket before calmly slotting through Warrandyte’s first goal. Later in the quarter goals to livewire forward pocket Steve Christopher and Mick Morello took Warrandyte to a handy twenty point quarter time lead.
The second quarter saw Warrandyte slip back into some old habits, with poor decision making causing several unnecessary turnovers. Through the midfield, young gun Ross Ansaldi was mopping up at ground level and Adam Tsapatsaris and Grant McAdam were both racking up possessions floating across half back, however some basic mistakes hampered Warrandyte’s entry into the forward line. Fortunately, Whitehorse failed to fully capitalise on Warrandyte’s sloppy second term, with inaccurate kicking in blustery conditions. Whitehorse registered 3.6 for the quarter, to Warrandyte’s equally inaccurate 2.4, giving the Bloods a two goal half time margin.
At half time Warrandyte coach Michael Tout reminded his players of the hard work they had all put in over pre-season and asked them to commit to overrunning Whitehorse in the second half. “Keep running, keep taking risks, just make sure you use the ball properly” said Tout.
In the third quarter Warrandyte were able to gain the ascendancy as the game started to open up. Whitehorse players were struggling to stay accountable against a fitter Warrandyte side, with Warrandyte backs such as Dion Mullet-Treloar and Matt Feben regularly running off their opponents to provide uncontested options further up the ground. The Warrandyte ball movement also became sharper, with less unforced errors and more run from behind. Goals to Dan Large and Steve Christopher widened the Warrandyte lead, then Archer marked strongly in the square and duly kicked his second. Two quick goals to Whitehorse kept them in the contest before late goals from Lee Evans and veteran Matt Wood gave Warrandyte a 34 point break going into the last quarter.
The final term saw Warrandyte further increase their lead, with many forays forward starting from the Warrandyte’s dominant backline – one of the features of the side’s success in 2009 and once again looking to be a strength in 2010. The last quarter saw the Bloods kick seven goals to the Pioneers’ three, with Christopher bobbing up for another two opportunistic goals to take his tally to six for the day. Archer kicked his third and fourth out of the goal square before diving full length across a Whitehorse boot in a desperate smother attempt and receiving an inadvertent kick to the head. Stretchered from the ground in front of a concerned crowd, Archer thankfully was not seriously injured and was soon up and about celebrating the Warrandyte victory. Dan Large calmly slotted through the resultant free kick and the Bloods ran out victors to the tune of 58 points.
After a solid pre-season training campaign, and with the inclusion of several new players to the Warrandyte side that reached a preliminary final in 2009, hopes are high amongst supporters for further a successful 2010. First gamers Cam Van Florestein, from Croydon, and Clint Kennedy, from Rye, showed plenty of promise on Saturday, while Flynn Jarvis, Paul Burgoyne and Justin Khouri also impressed after stepping up from Warrandyte’s Reserves and Under 18 sides. Jarvis provides a secondary ruck option while Burgoyne is an in and under player, and Khouri a stocky leading forward. Van Florestein is a ruckman or centre half forward with strong hands, while Kennedy is a strong marking forward who provides valuable experience to a young Warrandyte side.
Coach Michael Tout was pleased with the improvement shown in his side after disappointing practice match performances in recent weeks. “I’m happy with the result today” said Tout after the game, “but there is still a long way to go if we want to match it with the top sides in this division. This is a good start but that’s all it is, a start.”
Warrandyte travel to Coldstream next week to take on a team that have reportedly recruited well over the pre-season and who traditionally have proved very hard to beat on their home turf.
Warrandyte 17.15-117 – def Whitehorse 8.11-59
Goal Kickers: S. Christopher 6, G. Archer 4, L. Evans 2, D. Large 2, M. Wood, M. Morello, A. Tsapatsaris
Best Players: R. Ansaldi, B. Reid, S. Christopher, D. Mullett Treloar, A. Tsapatsaris, G. McAdam
Reserves Start Strongly
April 12th, 2010 - Round 1
Warrandyte Reserves also registered a win in their Round One clash against Whitehorse. The Warrandyte side has been in good form in their pre-season matches, with a respectable loss against a higher ranked opposition in Eltham Panthers followed by convincing wins against Tarwin and Glen Waverley.
Warrandyte 200 game veteran and premiership player Ash Grybas took the reins of the Reserves side following the departure of ‘09 coach Adam Hinds, and with a long list of players to choose from, it was a strong Warrandyte side selected for Saturday’s game against the Pioneers.
The first quarter saw a sluggish start from the Bloods, winning a lot of the ball through the middle of the ground but unable to capitalise on the scoreboard. At quarter time the Bloods were in front by the narrowest of margins, 2.2 to Whitehorse 2.1.
In the second term, Warrandyte started to gain the ascendancy, with some quick ball movement and overlapping handballs creating some sharp passages of play from the backline through to the forward fifty. Clever use of the ball and clean skills saw the Warrandyte midfielders begin to dominate their Whitehorse opponents, and as the game began to open up, the delivery into the Warrandyte forward line also improved. Adam Gamble and James Logan were providing dual targets up forward, with seventeen year old Liam Whitfield also presenting strongly. Late quarter goals to ruckman Dave Hand and big centre half forward Hamish Hosking sent the Bloods to the half time break with a 19 point advantage.
A third quarter highlight saw Brendan Zach take a big ride on a Whitehorse opponent’s shoulders to take a sensational mark, while the Warrandyte backline continued to repel any Pioneer attacks. Tim Hookey, in his first game for the Bloods, took several strong contested marks at centre half back, while Caleb Atkinson, in his first game out of the Under 18s, was racking up possessions in the centre square. Further goals to Gamble, Hand and Hosking, and running goals to Opteynde and Konrad off each wing saw the bloods take a 48 point lead to three quarter time; 12.8 to Whitehorse 4.8.
The final term delivered more of the same, with a hard running Warrandyte side beating their Whitehorse opponents to the ball and then using it more effectively once in possession. A five goal to one final quarter resulted in a final score of Warrandyte 17.8-110 to Whitehorse 5.9-39.
Warrandyte 17.8-110 def. Whitehorse 5.9-39
Goal Kickers: A. Gamble 4, D. Hand 3, J. Logan 2, H. Hosking 2, L. Whitfield 2, G. Carle, T. Konrad, B. Opteynde, C. Atkinson
Best Players: T. Hookey, B. Zach, D. Hand, H. Hosking, C. Atkinson, A. Gamble
Bloods Back in Action
February 28th, 2010
Great Day for a Great Cause
February 28th, 2010
More than 3,000 people flocked to Eltham's Central Park to watch Warrandyte take on Eltham in the first practice match of 2010. The ground was in magnificent condition and with Nathan Thompson, Damian Monkhorst, Adam Simpson, Shannon Grant and Glenn Archer taking the field, the scene was set for a fantastic day.
But the footy was really a sideshow. The real reason we were there was for Maddison. The Black Saturday fires that ravaged Victoria in 2009 had sadly orphaned Maddison at age 12. Not only had she lost both parents and her young sister, Maddy suffered burns to 50% of her body. Frequent visits to hospital and surgery are already something Maddison has had to come to terms with as she requires regular skin grafts and treatment.
Warrandyte coach Michael Tout heard of Maddison's plight and made contact with Paul Kemenzsy's, the police officer who rescued Maddison on that horrific day. Touty wanted to make a significant contribution to Maddy's future and suggested Warrandyte play a practice match with Eltham. From this point the idea became a reality and snowballed to become a major community event.
With fantastic support from local businesses and volunteers, Victoria Police, Eltham Football Club and Eltham Cricket Club, we ran a very successful day raising more than $50,000. Further to this a swimming pool, landscaping and various other donations have taken the total passed $110,000. A contribution that is sure to make a positive difference to Maddison's future.
Warrandyte Football Club would like to thank all businesses and personel who donated their produce and time to this wonderful cause. A very rewarding event that we look forward to in 2011.
AGP OAM
February 16th, 2010 - from the Warrandyte Diary
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Warrandyte resident Anthony Giles-Peters (pictured) has been awarded an Order of Australia Medal in recognition of his services to people with a physical disability, working through the Australian Ventilator Users Network (AVUN).
"I am surprised and honoured by this award, and also take it as recognition of AVUN and the many people who have contributed to the organisation over the years," Mr Giles-Peters co-founded the network in 1989 to provide a self-help and advocacy group for people who rely on ventilators for life support. He has been president since 1991. | While self-help remain the core of the network's functions, it has undertaken a strong advocacy role, contributing to government reviews and working to ensure that ventilator users receive medical and community support.
In the early 1990s, AVUN worked alongside the HIV/AIDS lobby in a campaign to save the Fairfield Hospital, concerned that if the hospital were closed, the multi-disciplinary team supporting ventilator users would be lost. "When Fairfield Hospital eventually closed, AVUN represented the interests of ventilator users in their move from Fairfield to the Bowen Centre at the Austin Hospital," Mr Giles-Peters said.
Since 1996, much of the network's energies have been focused on developing community based, supported accommodation for ventilator users. "After more than 10 years work, the Ventilator Accommodation Support Service opened in 2007 in Thornbury," Mr Giles-Peters said.
The support service comprises four houses providing long-term accommodation and respite. "A number of the people who use the service came from the Fairfield Hospital. They had been living in institutions for decades.
"The service provides a real home where residents direct the support they need," Mr Giles-Peters said. Residents have a role in the direction of the service and can participate in the life of the broader community.
Mr Giles-Peters remains chairman on the Support Service steering committee, allowing him to oversee the initiative. The service is funded by state government and staffed by Yooralla.
Anthony has lived in Warrandyte since 1978 and is a life member of the Warrandyte Football Club. He was secretary of the club for eight years. "My experience with the Warrandyte Football Club later helped me in setting up AVUN and applying for incorporation," he said.
In addition to his voluntary work with AVUN, Mr Giles-Peters is employed part-time as a disability advocate. He still manages to attend most of the football club's senior games.
Yarra Valley Works Commence
January 5th, 2009
Sad Passing of WFC Great
January 4th, 2009
Blood Insfusion
November 19th, 2009
Vitiritti Life Member
October 17th, 2009
James Logan Honoured
October 17th, 2009
James Logan has been recognised for his commitment and tireless support of the Warrandyte Football Club with the awarding of Life Membership. Logan captained the Under 18s in 1996 and has since played over 200 senior games, polled more than 90 B&F votes, was emergency in the 1999 Premiership side and a key part of the 2006 Premiership. Off-field, Jimmy has been on Committee for 12 years, Secretary of the club since 2000, and won a record 5 Downlow medals. At age 31 he becomes the Club's youngest ever Life Member. Jimmy Logan has been recognised for his commitment and tireless support of the Warrandyte Football Club with the awarding of Life Membership. Logan captained the Under 18s in 1996 and has since played over 200 senior games, polled more than 90 B&F votes, was emergency in the 1999 Premiership side and a key part of the 2006 Premiership.
Off-field, Jimmy has had his hand in everything. Committeeman, Secretary, Social Coordinator, Football Operations, you name it he's done it and still found time to win a record 5 Downlow medals. At age 31 Jimmy becomes the Club's youngest ever Life Member.
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Games - 214
Seniors 1996 - 2009
Premiership Player 2006
Best Club Person 2006
Reserves Best & Fairest 1998
General Committee 1998 - 1999
Secretary 2000 - current
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AFL Victoria Quality Club Program
The Quality Club Program is a about standards in club administration. Instituted in 2005, the program is designed to recognise and reward community football clubs for achieving a base standard of club administration through to levels of excellence.
In 2007 AFL Victoria awarded Warrandyte Football Club Bronze Level Status. In 2008 Warrandyte became one of only five EFL clubs to be awarded Silver Level Status and the club is currently working on becoming the EFL's first Gold Level Status recipient. |
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