2008 Variety Club Bash
October 17th, 2008

Through the generosity of Warrandyte players and supporters we sponsored the Hula Express Team car in this years 3,500 kilometre Variety Club Bash from Melbourne to Yeppon. The girl's managed to raise $47,000 and the whole event an awesome $1.34 million towards the lives of disadvantaged and special needs children. We look forward to getting behind the event again in 2009!

Presentation Night 2008
October 4th, 2008

Club Awards

Snowy Prior Best Clubperson - John Zach
President's Trophy - Fay Rice
Life Membership - Terry Ryan

Under 18s

1st Best & Fairest - Joel Rigby
2nd Best & Fairest - Zac Boyce
3rd Best & Fairest - Kane Stoffels
Most Improved - Wade Austen
Lee Tindale Most Determined Player - Ross Ansaldi
John McCartin Snr Most Consistent Player - Ross Brown

Reserves

1st Best & Fairest - Daniel Large
2nd Best & Fairest - Tim Beasley
3rd Best & Fairest - Paul Burgoyne
Geoff Darby Most Determined Player - Brendan Zach
Most Courageous - Dean Heller
Players Award - Daniel Large

Seniors

1st Best & Fairest - Grant McAdam
2nd Best & Fairest - Matthew Wood
3rd Best & Fairest - Tom Naughtin
Gary 'Madge' Alsop Most Courageous Player - Luke Naughtin
Daryl Valentine Most Determined Player - Ben Taylor
Ron Wilson Medal - Michael Morello
Best First Year Player - Ben Torney




Buuntar Hocko
August 22nd, 2008

Graeme Hocking came to the Bloods last November and immediately set to the task of moulding the players, and club, to his football methodology. A method with little madness. The players soon warmed to Hocko's ideals and game style based on football basics and tailored to suit the Warrandyte list. Unfortunately for Hocko, Leon Jones and Anthony Cheyne, building on a solid start of four and two would be hampered by injuries for the remainder of the season. An unprecedented 52 players played senior football in 2008 making it very difficult to find any stability which was exaserbated with evolving instructions. The playing group is certainly wiser for working under Hocko in 2008 and will take many of his directives on board moving forward. Hocko's devotion can never be questioned and he leaves the club in a better position than when he arrived. We wish Graeme the very best in his future coaching endeavours and sure that we'll see him at Warrandyte in the near future.



Call to Arms Charity Match
July 27th, 2008

Thank you to all donors in the 2008 Call to Arms campaign. We are proud to announce that through the generosity of all players, supporters and residents, WFC has proven to again be the Eastern Football League's most charitable club. The EFL club's managed to raise more than $11,000 for the Victorian Cancer Council through the Adam Ramanaskus led Call to Arms campaign in July. We managed to almost double last years fundraising efforts raising more than $4,000! Special thanks to Tom Naughtin and Jimmy Logan who organised the fundraising and Charity match, and to all players who sponsored girls in the auction.

Charity Match Player Pledges





Yarra Cup Stays at the Dyte
July 20th, 2008

The Bloods started slowly against a Templestowe side keen to notch up their second win of the season. Skill errors in the first quarter and some costly turnovers led to a 13 point first quarter deficit. After a quarter time rev-up Warrandyte had most of the play in the second quarter, and kicking with the aid of a handy breeze the Bloods reduced the margin to less than a kick at half time.

After a couple of early third quarter goals, the Bloods allowed Templestowe to gain the upper hand and the Dockers finished the quarter full of running and in front by 17 points. Warrandyte coach Graeme Hocking was positive at the three quarter time huddle, telling his players that if they continue to take risks and attack, the results will follow.

An early goal to the big Chief Ben Torney saw the margin reduced to 11 points before Templestowe once again extended the gap with a goal to former Blood Liam Riley. Rob Illingworth then goaled with his raking right foot from 50m and the Chief followed up with a strong mark and his second goal for the quarter to bring the Bloods to within a goal. Adam Gamble then goaled under pressure from a 45 degree angle to put the Bloods in front by a point much to the delight of the vocal Warrandyte supporters on the hill. Templestowe once again pushed forward but the Bloods backmen held strong before a Morello snap from 40m bounced through to put the Bloods seven points clear. A Templestowe point had supporters pondering the possibility of a draw before two more behinds sealed the win for the Bloods.

The win, Warrandyte's 5th for the season, means Warrandyte are assured of remaining in Division 3 in 2009. Templestowe will play Mitcham in Round 18 in what may be a fight to determine who will face relegation to Division 4. With four rounds to go, Mitcham are in 9th position, a game and percentage clear of 10th placed Templestowe. The Bloods face an in form Upper Gully next week at home.



Plenty of Work To Do
July 8th, 2008

Warrandyte has struggled to keep pace with the rest of the field in Division Three in recent weeks, registering a sixth straight loss on Saturday at Coldstream. In worrying signs for the Bloods, Saturday’s loss was also the sixth time this season they have lost by a margin of ten goals or more. After a dream start to the season, (Warrandyte was placed fourth on the EFL ladder after six rounds with four wins and two losses), the subsequent slide has seen the Bloods slump to eighth. Warrandyte now sit above only Mitcham and the struggling Templestowe, who have just one win on the board and are looking squarely in the face of relegation. Despite the heavy losses suffered in recent weeks, all is not doom and gloom, with the Bloods continuing in their ongoing policy of developing the youth of the club. Young talent such as Jason Khouri and Tyson Fitzgerald are examples of players who have gained invaluable experience in the senior side in the first half of season 2008. In all, seventeen players have made their senior debut for the Bloods this year.

The Bloods looked good in the opening minutes of their Round 12 match against Coldstream, with gun forward Mick Morello leading and marking strongly twice in the space of four minutes. Unfortunately both shots for goal sprayed wide, and Coldstream were able to clear without too much pressure. The first ten minutes were an arm-wrestle, with both sides unable to get their first goal on the board. Coldstream eventually broke the deadlock with a goal to Dave Trueman, the first of his seven for the day. While the Bloods were failing to capitalise on their opportunities, Coldstream were finding space in their forward line and receiving sharp delivery from their midfield. The Bloods went into the first term break looking trailing by four goals. The second quarter was the Leam Doughty show, the Coldstream captain taking the game by the scruff of the neck and demoralising his Warrandyte opponents. Doughty kicked three goals for the quarter and had a hand in three others as his team took the game away from the lacklustre Bloods.

Behind by 64 points at half time and with just one goal on the board, coach Graeme Hocking questioned the endeavour of his players in the rooms and implored them to regain some pride in their performance. The third quarter did see some improvement in the intensity of the Warrandyte players, but once again opportunities were not converted into shots on goal and the Bloods were again soundly beaten on the scoreboard. Doughty continued to have a major influence on the game, finishing with eight goals after dealing with four different Warrandyte opponents. Morello kicked two goals from limited opportunities and Cal Haskings was clearly best on ground for the Bloods. Haskings, in his first year of consistent senior football after a couple of seasons in and out of the side, has been one of the shining lights for Warrandyte in 2008, providing hard running from half back and much needed physical pressure with his fearless attack on the ball.



Reserves Hold Top Four Spot
July 8th, 2008

Despite dropping two of their last four matches, the reserves have maintained their spot in the top four on the EFL ladder. Recent losses have made it near impossible for the Bloods to climb higher up the ladder, with Boronia, Mooroolbark and Waverley all two games and a whole lot of percentage points above in first, second and third positions respectively. After accounting for Coldstream to the tune of 50 points earlier in the season, many would have assumed the result in Round 12 would be a foregone conclusion. This was a different side to the one that played in the earlier match however, with no less than 14 changes from the team that ran out in Round 3, injuries having taken a serious toll on the Warrandyte playing list in recent weeks.

The Bloods started like a bull out of a gate, kicking the first four goals of the match. Tim Beasley was continuing his golden form, dominating the centre clearances, and Campbell Holland got his hands on the ball early, slotting through two first quarter goals. Unfortunately for the Bloods, the intensity shown early in the match disappeared at the quarter time huddle, and Coldstream were allowed to kick five consecutive goals in the second quarter to bring themselves right back into the match and take a five point lead into half time. From there it was an even tussle, with the two teams trading goal for goal. The match went down to the wire, the Bloods eventually going down by one straight kick and left ruing a missed opportunity. Beasley was clearly best for Warrandyte, along with Glen Carle and Holland, who finished the match with five goals.



Special Presentation
July 4th, 2008

Brian Cartright has organised a special presentation on sports preparation to be held at the club rooms on Tuesday July 22nd at 8pm. The evening will consist of a presentation on the best methods of preparing for, and recovering from, the rigours of our great game. The session will be presented by Dawson Kidgell, from the School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University. Dawson will speak formally about a study he has recently completed on "Effects Of Secondary Warm Up Following Stretching". An experienced speaker and responsible for rehabilitation programs at the Eastern Ranges and Carlton Football Clubs, Dawson is passionate about tackling misconceptions and myths regarding dynamic and static stretching. He will present an up-to-date session that will be easy to understand for players, coaches and parents and his opinions and advice are based on scientifically tested evidence. Following the formal part of the evening, Dawson will field questions from the community in what should be an enlightening opportunity that we can all benefit from.

Bookings are not required, however please ensure you are there prior to 8pm.



Big Ash Bows Out
June 27th, 2008

Round 11 will mark the end of an era at Warrandyte Football Club. After 210 EFL games Ash Grybas has announced he will retire after the Waverley Blues game. Making his debut for the Bloods in 1991, Ash has controlled the backline with dominating spoils and commanding voice. Donning the red and white jumper on 192 occasions, he was an integral part of the 1993 and 2006 Premiership sides. Ash’s exceptional performances during the 90’s were acknowledged when he was named in the ‘Team of the Decade 1990 – 1999’. Of course if you ask Ash, he was always a forward wasted in defence. Never short of a word, we’re still hearing about the two goals he kicked in Round 3 this year and the eight he kicked against the Southern Cobra’s back in 1999. 2008 hasn’t been an easy year for the Grybas family for obvious reasons. Ash has battled with back pain over the last two seasons and finally succumbed to injury. Through this adversity Ash has shown absolute leadership and can hold his head up high for the way he has represented the Warrandyte Football Club. Thank you Ash, and well done on an outstanding footy career.



Under 18s Fall Short
June 30th, 2008

Round eleven was a season defining game for the under 18's. A win would potentially set up an opportunity for a finals appearance. The boys came out strong. Tackles were ferocious. The ball movement was quick and clean. The Bloods were red hot in the first quarter, and it represented on the scoreboard. The Bloods were in front, 14 – 10. At the quarter time huddle Kane Stoffels’ hands were smoking from a stack of possessions. Waverly Blues counteracted this by a blue shadow that followed him all day. Jack Hall snapped giving him a few goals and providing several options inside our attacking fifty.

The Bloods kept up the pressure in the second. Wade Austen provided marking options out of the back line, but the bloods struggled to push the ball forward. Jake Bentley had clean hands, and fellow skipper Zac Boyce provided drive. However, it wasn’t enough and the Bloods trailed by two points at the long break. The Bloods dropped off in the third. Plugger moved Joel Rigby onto the ball, providing thrust forward. Ross Anasaldi continued his good form from past weeks and also contributed in the middle.

Waverly Blues came out early in the forth and posted another three unanswered goals. It took a while for the Bloods to wake up. Slick hands and run provided supply to our forwards. Keith “Smell” Dimech nailed a set shot. Mick Whittle put his head over the footy and won the contested ball. Spud Dunn and Clayton Pearce won several ruck contests all day. Andrew “Dos” Venables and Grant Westgarth provided lots of run on the wings. But their last ditch effort was not enough and Waverly for the third time this season secured the four points.

The Bloods had the same chronic problems. The team could not provide four quarters of talk and effective disposals. To play finals, the Bloods can not afford to loose any more matches. Wins against Upper Ferntree Gully and Boronia are needed. The Under 18’s play Coldstream next week and will hopefully secure a win.

By Jake Bentley and Geoff Zach



My Slump, My Slump My Slump My Slump
June 21st, 2008

Warrandyte have slumped to 7th on the EFL ladder after a disappointing loss to Mitcham on Saturday. The Bloods trailed by just ten points at half time before capitulating in the second half to allow the Tigers to walk away with a 98 point victory. Senior players now realise that renewed commitment is required in order to turn the season around before it is too late. The Reserves continue to improve, recording a comprehensive 80 point win, while the Colts regained some of their early season form and won by four goals.

Warrandyte 6.6 – 42
Mitcham 21.14 – 140


Best: M. Wood, G. McAdam, M. Morello, C. Haskings, T. Naughtin, L. Naughtin
Goals: B. Torney 2, P. Brown, M. Morello, M. Wood, D. Hand



Whitehorse, Black Day
June 14th, 2008

Skill errors were the major contributing factor to a disappointing 35 point loss to Whitehorse. The game was the first time both sides had met since Warrandyte defeated the Pioneers in the 2006 Grand Final. With three late changes to the Bloods side and injuries to Dunn and Fitzgerald the team was not as strong as hoped. Although Warrandyte were in front at half time, when the Pioneers took the lead they didn't look back. Wins to the Under 18s and Reserves were positives to be taken from the day.

Warrandyte 12.9 – 81
Whitehorse 17.14 – 116


Best: L. Naughtin, G. McAdam, B. Taylor, C. Haskings, M. Wood, M. Morello
Goals: M. Morello 6, J. Eldridge 2, D. Rowe, A. Gamble, R. Mullett Treloar



50 Year Reunion
June 10th, 2008

July 12th will be a reflection on one of the clubs most significant seasons - in 1958 Warrandyte defeated Bayswater in the second semi-final and again in the grand final to win the club's first premiership. There are eight surviving members of the premiership side who will be the toast of the 50 Year Anniversary Luncheon on July 12th at 12pm. $30 includes a two course luncheon, beer and wine. Special guest speaker. Book with Bucky Rodgers on 0411 519 671 or email warrandyte@efl.org.au



Tough Times
May 31st, 2008

The season 2008 rollercoaster ride continues for the Bloods with mixed results in the last three rounds. The Queens birthday break could not have come at a better time for a Warrandyte side that has lost their previous two matches by a combined total of 244 points. Comprehensive losses to Boronia in round seven and Mooroolbark in round eight were preceded by a hard fought seven point victory over Upper Ferntree Gully in a valuable win away from home. Despite the recent form slump, the Bloods are still in touch with the Division Three top four, sitting fifth on the ladder with four wins and four losses. The mid-season break gives Graeme Hocking’s charges an invaluable extra week to rest sore bodies and prepare for an important round nine clash with 2007 Division Four premiers Whitehorse Pioneers. The last time the two teams met was in the 2006 Division Four Grand Final when the Bloods, then coached by Peter Green, took home the premiership cup.

Signs were good early for the Bloods in their round eight clash with Mooroolbark. Jack Eldridge, in his first season at Warrandyte after transferring from Seville, got his hands on the ball early and goaled twice in the space of five minutes before the Barkers could register their first goal. Unfortunately that was as good as it got for the visiting side. Mooroolbark replied quickly with a goal of their own, then another, then another, and three more before quarter time to give them a 26 point lead at the first break. The second quarter brought more misery for the Bloods, the Barkers piling on ten goals four behinds to Warrandyte’s three points. Incredibly, it would take until the final quarter for the Bloods to register their third goal, some 90 minutes after their previous six pointer, wingman Adam Gamble swooping on a loose ball and kicking truly from thirty out. Fourth quarter goals to Mick Morello and first-gamer Rowan Mullet-Treloar put a minor degree of respectability into the scoreline, with seventeen year old Mullet-Treloar’s game one of the rare highlights for the outclassed Warrandyte side. Older brother Dion has been an important member of the senior side since early 2006. Young Vice-Caption Luke Dunn battled hard all day against much bigger opponents and earned the respect of his teammates in the form of the round eight players’ award. Coach Graeme Hocking also recognised Dunn’s efforts, nominating him as clearly the best Warrandyte player on a day when winners were hard to find.

Warrandyte 5.8 – 38
Mooroolbark 30.21 – 201


Best: L. Dunn, D. Mullett Treloar, C. Haskings
Goals: J. Eldridge 2, A. Gamble, M. Morello, R. Mullett-Treloar



Back To Earth
May 24th, 2008

Boronia went into round seven sitting in sixth place on the EFL Division Three ladder, one win behind the Bloods who were coming off three consecutive wins and occupying fourth spot. In front of a healthy crowd at Warrandyte Reserve, the Bloods were keen to keep their momentum going and consolidate their place in the top four.

Unfortunately for Warrandyte supporters there was not a whole lot to cheer about. Despite a competitive start, it was one way traffic for the rest of the day with Boronia dominating in all areas of the ground, racking up 46 scoring shots to Warrandyte’s twenty. It was only Boronia’s inaccuracy in front of goal that saved the Bloods from a more embarrassing scoreline, the Hawks kicking more behinds than goals in each of the four quarters and finishing the day with 18 goals 28. It was the Boronia midfielders who did most of the damage, not helped when Warrandyte suffered the loss of key on-baller Luke Naughtin early in the second term with a groin injury.

Warrandyte also went into the match without dominant young ruckman Ben Torney, who strained his wrist in the previous round, and Club Captain Tom Naughtin who has not played since sustaining a knee injury against Mitcham in round one. The emergence of Cal Haskings as an important midfielder in the senior lineup has gone some way to filling the hole left by Naughtin. Haskings, a product of the junior football club and 2004 Under 18 best and fairest winner, has earned a regular senior spot and has brought some much needed physicality to the Bloods often outsized midfield.

To their credit, the Bloods did fight it out to the end against a quality opposition and were able to take some solace in kicking four goals in the final term, eventually going down to the tune of 81 points. Veteran midfielder Matt Wood was best on ground for the Bloods, Grant McAdam and Ash Grybas also among the better performers.

Warrandyte 7.13 - 55
Boronia 18.28 - 136

Best: M. Wood, G. McAdam, A. Grybas, L. Evans
Goals: R. Illingworth 2, J. Eldridge, V. Jones, M. Wood, M. Morello, T. Fitzgerald



Upper Cut
May 17th, 2008

You can just about guarantee that the two coldest days of the year will correspond with Warrandyte’s away matches against Upper Ferntree Gully and Coldstream, and this year is so far proving no exception. It was cold, it was wet and it was muddy, but the Bloods endured the tough conditions and were suitably rewarded with a rare Kings Park win. Goals were difficult to come by as the ball became heavier and more slippery in the driving rain, but Warrandyte centre-half forward Lee Evans made it look easy, taking several strong overhead marks on his way to kicking four goals straight. At the other end, Upper Gully were feeling the absence of star full forward Grant Noonan, missing with a foot injury.

With his team trailing by eight points at half time in a low scoring affair, Warrandyte coach Graeme Hocking questioned the endeavour of his side and asked for a renewed effort after the break. His players responded with a quarter of tough, hard football that at time resembled a game of rugby union, kicking three goals to Upper Gully’s one to take a ten point lead into the last quarter. The final term saw Upper Gully enter their forward fifty several times without being able to convert a major, before finally slotting one through to keep them in touch. The atmosphere around the ground was tense as the Bloods defended grimly, with Upper Gully peppering the goals, scoring several behinds and edging closer to the lead. Finally with just two minutes remaining on the clock, Luke Naughtin snapped a clever goal from 25 out to give the Bloods an eight point margin and some breathing space. Despite a final foray forward, Upper Gully were only able to kick a further behind and the Bloods ran out victors in a tough contest by seven points. Lee Evans was the standout performer with four goals, Naughtin, Vinnie Jones and Rob Illingworth were also important for the Bloods.

Warrandyte 8.10 - 58
Upper Ferntree Gully 6.15 - 51

Best: L. Evans, D. Mullett Treloar, R. Illingworth, G. McAdam, L. Naughtin, V. Jones
Goals: L. Evans 4, V. Jones, L. Naughtin, B. Reid, M. Morello



Yarra Cup Comes Home
May 10th, 2008

The much anticipated clash against local rivals Templestowe saw the Bloods celebrate James Logan's 200th match with a 15 point win to win back the Yarra Cup. Morello kicked another 6, continuing his good form in front of goal, and the Chief Ben Torney was awarded the 150th anniversary of footy medal for best on ground. The Reserves also continued on their winning ways, victors by almost 10 goals. In form full forward Campbell Holland kicked 8, having now kicked 18 goals in 3 matches. The Colts lost to a strong Waverley team by 58 points. This is how the EFL Media team saw the senior game;

Warrandyte (15.16.106) defeated Templestowe (14.7.91) by 15 points at Warrandyte Oval on Saturday, despite Templestowe outscoring its host five goals to two in the final term. Warrandyte’s victory was setup by a dominant display in the second quarter, in which it charged ahead with six unanswered goals which was a fitting celebration for 200 game player Jimmy Logan as TRISTAN MADDOCKS reports.

Templestowe had started strongly with a four goal to two opening term, finding goals through Kane Maghamez and Joel Anderson, who each kicked two for the quarter. Templestowe were very efficient with their ball use in this term, and gave their forwards plenty of opportunities.

Warrandyte only managed two goals for the opening term, one a terrific set shot from the boundary from Tyson Fitzgerald, and the other a set shot from full-forward Michael Morello, who would go on to kick six goals in a match-winning effort.

Templestowe went into the first break 10 points up, and at the quarter-time huddle Warrandyte coach Graeme Hocking asked his players to be accountable and to not run forward of the ball.

Templestowe opened its account in the second term with an early goal to Kane Maghamez, pushing its lead to 16 points. After that, however, Warrandyte really put its foot down, kicking 6 unanswered goals in a 10 minute burst that would ultimately setup their win.

In this period Michael Morello dobbed four majors, and he was ably supported by John Eldridge in the forward line, who kicked the other two goals for Warrandyte. Warrandyte started to kick longer in this term, and began to play with far more urgency. Warrandyte big-man Ben Torney started to have an impact, particularly with his thumping left boot. Templestowe couldn’t find an avenue to goal for the remainder of the term, and went into the major break 22 points down.

In the third quarter, Templestowe again scored the opener, and again it came through star forward Kane Maghamez, who kicked truly from 15 metres out. But Warrandyte were able to respond immediately through Ben Torney, who sent through a monster goal from outside the forward arc.

At that point, however, Templestowe showed some real fight, finding three consecutive goals through Steven Chilton, Anthony Muleta and Kane Maghamez, leaving Templestowe only 10 points in arrears at the 16 minute mark.

Warrandyte then responded through two goals of its own to Ben Torney and Robert Illingworth, steadying its lead. Play of the quarter went to Warrandyte’s Luke Dunn, who had four possessions during a dashing run down the grandstand wing, chaining handballs and finally setting up for Illingworth to kick his goal.

So in the third term it was four goals apiece, and although Templestowe challenged strongly, Warrandyte were able to respond. Templestowe were 23 points behind at the final change, and coach Paul Breen told his players to watch out for opposition run from defence, and to play the percentages by getting the footy on their boot whenever possible.

Templestowe again found the first goal of the quarter, this time through skipper George Sahinidis, who gathered the loose ball, turned around and dribbled it through from 25 metres out. It took ten minutes for the next goal to come, except this time it was to Warrandyte with Illingworth’s second.

From that point, the two teams went goal for goal, Templestowe through Maghamez and Andy Loke, who scrounged a clever goal in the goalsquare, and Warrandyte through John Eldridge and Ben Torney. At the final siren, although Templestowe persisted all day, Warrandyte ran out 15 point winners.

It was a day for the full-forwards, with both Michael Morello and Kane Maghamez kicking six goals each to put them right amongst the best players on the ground. For Warrandyte, Ben Torney was a strong presence around the ground, Grant McAdam played well across the half back line, and Jason Khouri, Piers Brown and Cal Haskings all had impacts at various times.

For Templestowe, the best players included Joel Anderson, Kane Maghamez and Liam Riley. Anderson was dominant around the ground, racking up many, many possessions, and is clearly a classy midfielder. Riley was very creative and dangerous when he had the ball, and he contested hard and regularly setup teammates.



Cougars Open With Class
April 26th, 2008

Warrandyte's slow starts to games have been evident in recent years and against COldstream it would be no different. After a week of soul searching thanks to a 177 point loss to Waverley, the Bloods were determined to make mends against the Cougars. With the injury toll mounting those who took the field were asked to dig deep and play with passion. The game as seen by the EFL Media team:

Coldstream have put the memories of their 0-3 start to the 2007 season behind them, reversing their results in 2008 to kick off the year with three straight wins. After a 2007 season which saw them miss the finals by 11%, Leam Doughty has seen his cougars go undefeated after three rounds, as they stamped their authority on the game early against Warrandyte on the weekend.

Coldstream’s round three clash versus the bloods looked like it was going to be an entirely one sided affair after Coldstream posted the first six goals of the game by the 14 minute mark. The Warrandyte defense was in disarray early in the game, with Chris Murphy dominant - kicking three of the first four goals of the game. Coldstream were gaining possessions at will out of the centre with Patrick Murphy combining well with Matt Price to give the cougar’s first use of the ball.

Warrandyte however made some quick changes with Dion Mullett Treloar moved onto Murphy and Lee Evans moved to half back, and the midfield tightened up. The bloods were finally able to bring up their first major of the game at the 17 minute mark through Tyson Fitzgerald to reduce the margin to 30 points. Vincent Jones was playing a good early stopping role on Coldstream coach and playmaker Leam Doughty, and Ben Torney started to have an impact on the game in the ruck, with Matt Wood and Luke Naughtin lifting their work rates to push Warrandyte forward. At quarter time, it was Coldstream by 31 points.

The second term opened like the first, with Murphy marking up forward and converting for his fourth goal of the game. Centre clearances were the key, and when Jason Khouri pushed forward from the centre clearance and went long from 50 metres out, Warrandyte had their second goal, and the score was back to the quarter time margin. Coldstream were quick to reply, as Doughty put his first score on the board after Dave Trueman marked on the lead, then handballed off to the coach, and the cougars were back out to a 37 point lead.

Torney became a focal point for Warrandyte in the second term, taking ruck honours as well as drifting forward and creating a forward option for the bloods. Torney kicked his first after good vision by Michael Morello, and soon Morello was on the board with his first after a good kick from the boundary, and the margin was cut to 27 points. Matt Price complimented his good midfield work with an answering goal for Coldstream soccer style, but Warrandyte were again quick to reply. Torney and Morello both scored their second goals of the day, and the bloods were back in the game trailing by just 19 points entering time on in the quarter. A late goal to Doughty was not what the bloods needed ticking down to half time, and at half time, the cougars led by 25 points.

The third quarter started off very defensively for both sides, with the first major not brought up till the seven minute mark when Matt Price kicked long from the middle of the centre square, to bomb through the Menzwear Direct goal of the day. Warrandyte got the break from the middle, and Khouri kicked his second goal for the bloods, but this sparked Coldstream back into top gear. With Daniel Price dominating the half back line for Coldstream, Warrandyte found it difficult to head inside forward 50 for the rest of the term. Coldstream however pushed forward at every opportunity, and they quickly piled on the next five goals in a row. Goals to Paul Tempest, Doughty with his third and fourth goals, plus Trueman and Matt Johnson both with their first, gave the cougars a 51 point lead going into the final term. Despite the cougars dominance of the third quarter, Grant McAdam was one player to hold his head high after the third term, working well off half back for Warrandyte.

With the game in the bag for Coldstream, the cougars were unable to continue their dominance in the final term, as Warrandyte kicked eight goals to five in the final quarter to add some respectability to the scoreline. Warrandyte finally found space in their forwardline and with better delivery around the ground, were finding targets and did not turnover the ball as much as they had done in the early stages of the game. Morello finished off the game with five goals for the home side, and played well over the four quarters – with cougar Tim Baker having to be moved onto him in the second half. Ash Grybas enjoy a foray forward in the final term, and bagged two goals, much to the delight of the crowd who would not have seen the dour defender kick too many scores in his career.

Coldstream coach Leam Doughty was on fire in the final term, as he kicked four goals to take his game tally to eight for the match, earning him the Knox Tavern best on ground award. Coldstream home by 36 points.



Waverley Hoodoo
April 19th, 2008

A week is a long time in football. Unfortunately this week will seem a lot longer than last week after our Waverley hoodoo continued on Saturday! The Under 18s again started slowly but gradually came together as a team and although having the same amount of scoring shots went down by 30 points. The reserves played well and with several new faces in the side controlled most of the game. However, Waverley's second quarter was the difference where they kicked four goals to nil. Despite a late fight back time elapsed leaving Warrandyte five points down. The less said about the Seniors the better. An embarrassing performance saw Waverley Blues win by 174 points. Whilst there is a very long injury list (which grew early on Saturday) that is testing the club's depth the lacklustre performance was inexcusable. The Fleet Street ground continues to be a hoodoo for the Bloods winning there on only one occasion back in 2003. The comments from the Waverley reserves and crowd have been noted and stored in the memory bank.



Round 1 Triumph
April 12th, 2008

The Bloods have started 2008 with a bang, registering three strong wins over Mitcham at home on Saturday. The Colts demolished an undermanned opposition by almost 30 goals, while the Reserves were in front from start to finish and recorded a five goal victory. The Seniors got off to a shaky start before storming home in the second half to win by 50 points, with Magic Morello booting 7 goals and first-gamer Adam Gamble kicking 5 from the wing.



The Wait is Over
April 7th, 2008

As the players take the field for the first time in 2008 it will mark the end of the preseason. A preparation that commenced some 154 days earlier. Whilst again being interrupted by the ongoing drought, the club is happy with the committment of the playing group averaging 50 players at training. Our recruits have settled in, returning players restablished and young blood improving. All indications that it will be a much stronger unit this season. Nobody is quite sure what to expect from Mitcham in 2008, however it doesn't really matter as if coach Hocking's game plan is followed correctly and the Bloods play to the potential shown in periods of the preseason, then Warrandyte should prevail. The first win of what is expected to be many at the 'graveyard', and the start of restablishing one of the more difficult road trips in 3rd division.



Season Launched
March 7th, 2008

The 2008 Season was kicked off in style at the clubrooms on March 7th. MC Adam White was exceptional with guests Nathan Thompson, David Walls and David Schwartz. The Ox did a wonderful job in promoting the Punters Club! The players in attendance can certainly take a lot from Robert Walls' wise words and look towards a successful future at the Bloods. The '2008 Season Guide' which has been two months in the making was launched and is now available for purchase. It is a fantastic publication and a must have for all Warrandyte players and supporters. The Club thanks all of our valued sponsors who attended and contributed to the evening. Winners of the sponsors raffle were;

Scoreboard banner - AC&CH Auto Repairs - 9873 0046
Scoreboard boundary banner - Grand Hotel - 9844 3202
Goal boundary banner tennis court end - Beasley's Nursery - 9844 3335
Goal boundary banner IGA end - Parkworks Environmental Contractors - 9722 0944
Home coaches box - Thinking Printing - 9879 8722
Away coaches box - John Roberts & Associates - 9844 2661
Bar fridge advertising - Locksolid Australia
Canteen fridge advertising - Warrandyte Retreat - 9844 0325

Fresh Blood
January 29th, 2008

Warrandyte's list for 2008 has seen a transfusion of new blood with more recruits expected in the coming weeks. The club is determined to again be a successful Division 3 side and lay the foundations for another tilt at second division in the near future. Just as positive for the Bloods in '08 is the return of several experienced Senior players from overseas and interstate work committments. Junior and Under 18 players will be the main focus whilst attracting experienced players to fill any voids. Up from the Under 18s and showing a lot of potential include Evan Jones, Jason khouri, Pat Nichol and Daniel Large who all tasted senior football last year. With a horror injury run last season, Luke Naughtin, Adam Tsapasaris and Tom Roberts could also be viewed as recruits. Todd Holman who has been battling hamstring problems will look to ease into the season. There are a lot of positives to be taken from training so early in the season.

Some of the new players wearing the red & white in '08 include:

John Eldridge - Big Jack. A hard hitting, power forward making the journey down from the frost bitten hills of Seville. With a reliable set of dukes and sturdy shot for goal the Warrandyte forwardline is looking very potent.

Grant Godwin – A Warrandyte junior who has been around the club for a number of years, Grant has finally decided to pull the boots back on and hasn’t missed a beat during preseason.

Michael Hallam – A slightly built tap ruckman who is fleet of foot and will add some much needed height to the reserves list. What he lacks in experience, Mick makes up with enthusiasm.

Adam Hinds – After a long career with East Ringwood, Beans has left the Roos to find a new home at the Bloods. He has immediately fitted in and will look to kick a few bags from the forward pocket.

Vinnie Jones – Coming across from Ringwood, the nimble onballer will add some pace to the midfield. His polished skills will have the forwardline grinning in anticipation of improved delivery.

Jarrod Loughnam – Reserves coach at Seville in 2007, Joffa is no longer fleet of foot but will be a great acquisition for the twos. A wingman that enjoys receiving and parading his great skills on both sides of body. He could play senior football if motivated.

Daniel Rowe - From way of Ringwood, Gerry picked up the TW Sherrin for the first time only a few years ago and is blossoming into a proficient footballer. Loves to party and will fit in well at the Bloods.

Mase Rushgrove - A hard at it back flanker, Mase played with North Ringwood before moving to Silvan. He knows how to find the footy and will give much needed depth to Warrandyte’s list.

Darren Thorne – Darren showed huge potential as a junior and with the Eastern Ranges until his hamstrings hampered his progression. Starting his career at Nth Ringwood before a short stint at Ringwood, Darren is looking forward to a big year at the Bloodery.

Ben Torney – A big, tall forward, the Chief most recently played with Whitefriars in B Grade Amateurs. Great set of hands and raking left foot kick to match he will be a handful for opposition backmen.

Mike Townsend – In only a handful of training sessions the big Kiwi has shown he can quickly adapt to Aussie Rules. We look forward to Mike imposing his big frame on the opposition as if he was still in the front row.



Twenty20
January 27th, 2008

In the 3rd annual Australia Day Twenty20 match against Warrandyte Cricket Club, the footballers thought they were in with a big chance to record their first win. Unfortunately this would not be the case after some late team changes and a less than ideal preparation it quickly became evident that the WCC was far too serious for the Bloods.

A crowd of around fifty gathered on the hill to watch the Naughtin brothers kick of WFC's innings. Luke was probably a little optimistic taking two stubbies out to bat and was brilliantly caught in the deep Fatty Vaughtin style for a golden duck. Tom Naughtin and Morello steadied the ship before a small collapse left the footballers looking at posting a small total. A rotational batting order put some respectibility back into the innings with some big hitting late in the piece getting the score up to 192.

When WFC took the field there was gauranteed to be some fireworks. An entertaining fielding display made the batting look first rate, though unlucky not to get a couple of early catches, the ball just falling short at fouth and sixth slip. The cricketers started to get on top and when their opening batsmen failed to walk after being 'run out' (stumped) the game was getting away from the Bloods.

The wickets slowly began to fall and at each impromptu mid pitch meeting there was plenty of inspiration to spur the boys onto another breakthrough. With only a few overs remaining in stepped one G. Hocking to bowl some cheeky left arm swing bowling. A couple of quick wickets brought the footballers back into contention and left Hocko in desperate need of a shower. Alas, the cricketers managed to get the runs with an over to spare but the jury is still out on who the winners were. It certainly wasn't the game of cricket. Or Luke Naughtin.



Time Trial
December 17th, 2007

There was certainly a buzz in the air at the last training session before the Christmas break. With Josh 'Killer' Eyre giving the nod of approval, 42 players attacked the 3.2km river course in a time trial that has set the benchmark for the rest of the playing group to strive for. Optyende led the pack with an impressive AFL standard 10:55. Each player will complete the time trial on at least two occasions during the preseason to monitor fitness levels and give the coaching staff an indication of individuals aerobic capacity.

Top 12 time results



EFL acknowledges Vitiritti
November 29th, 2007

The league this year paid tribute to the careers of five EFL footballers who have played more than 300 EFL / EDFL games. This included Warrandyte's very own Dale Vitiritti. Vitters has received many accolades over recent years including the 2007 club celebrations of his great career climaxing in his 300th game for the Bloods. The EFL awarded Vitters with Player Life Membership at the AGM at the Karralyka Centre. Congratulations Dale!



Vitiritti & Bowen Appointed
November, 2007

WFC has appointed Dale Vitiritti as Reserves Coach for 2008. Vitters showed his coaching prowess with the Under 18s in '07, narrowly missing a finals berth. Dale will concentrate on developing individual players skills at training and impart the knowledge he has gained in his 306 senior games. WFC is also pleased to announce Jason Bowen as Under 18 coach for '08. AFL Victoria recognised Plugger's coaching last year and he is looking forward to taking the squad into the EFL.



Fiji Mission
October, 2007

Warrandyte Football Club donates to charity annually and contributes to various community groups. This positivity has now been taken overseas to Fiji through the work of Peter Cole's civilian mission "The Spirit Of Sharing". Fiji, one of our closest neighbours, is an underpriviledged country. Children do not have access to the things we take for granted everyday included sports equipment and clothing. Peter Cole appealed to local sports clubs and organisations to supply equipment and sports apparel. WFC donated two dozen footballs and jumpers to the cause.

The mission was supported in Fiji by Rotary Club of North Suva by covering the Vat Tax charges and taking delivery of the container. After several delays by red tape Peter and his team commenced distributed the goods to more than 60 schools. The most common comment from the schools was praise the lord for these gifts that we have been given, they are very much needed and will enhance the lives of our kids.

Mr Greenall a builder from Olinda and a leading figure in community football flew for his first time to Fiji to experience the difference Cole's mission is making. Greenall said "This trip has been the most amazing experience of my life. I have never felt so good and so helpful. I cannot believe that a bunch of brand new & second hand sporting equipment would be so needed anywhere in the world today. I am so impressed by Cole's mission that I am joining his quest and going to help gather a heap of equipment for next years trip."

Mr Cole has been running his mission now for 7 years building up from a few boxes each year to a full container for the past two years. Cole said on his arrival back in Melbourne "I am so happy with the result of this years mission. After all the complications with clearing the container the real benefits were felt when we arrived at each school. The Fijian people are just so wonderful in nature. They appreciate what we have done. People across Fiji are starting to know us and that's great for what I am trying to do. We need to be connected to get into all the rural villages in the interior and on the islands. I am very thankful that I had Andrew Greenall & Stephen Longham along this year to assist as they worked very hard in trying conditions without complaint."

Warrandyte Football Club will again be increasing our contribution in 2008 and we are proud to be a small part of such an important mission.