Hurting Roos to relish spotlight

North Melbourne players after the 96-point elimination final loss to West Coast. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: PerthNow

NORTH Melbourne coach Brad Scott has urged his troops to step into the AFL spotlight with confidence next year, despite the lingering hurt of a savage finals loss.

The young Roos arrived as a future force last season, but were smashed by West Coast in a first-round finals thrashing at Patersons Stadium.

Scott said the 96-point elimination final loss was a "devastating" finish after powering into the finals by winning nine out of 10 games late in the year.

Showing they could play pulsating corridor football, the Roos were rewarded by the AFL with three primetime Friday night games next year -- their most since 2006.

While it comes with a nightmarishly tough draw, Scott said his team should relish the chance to shine on the big stage in 2013.

"If you want to be the best you have got to beat the best and I think if we are really competing well into September we certainly will have earned our spot," Scott told the Herald Sun.

"We won't shy away from that, and, the game is bigger than just the football side of things.

"As a club, I think it's great for us. Our fans are going to see us on at least three Friday nights and there is a chance we play Collingwood in the last round of the year (floating fixture) on a Friday night, too.

"If we get good exposure and it exposes our players to the best teams in the competition, that's got to be a good thing."

Once regarded as a dour, one-paced side, a young crop of outside runners led by linebreaking defender Shaun Atley added a slick edge to the Roos last season.

The club also bolstered its centre line with the addition two former first round draft picks, Port Adelaide's Ben Jacobs (No.16, 2010) and ex-Demon Jordan Gysberts (No.11, 2009).

The new recruits have helped the Roos move on from their first-round finals failure last season, as West Coast buried them under a 43-point quarter-time lead in sweltering heat.

Scott said his squad had the mental resilience to rebound from the finals lashing.

"It was a devastating result, particularly after going some ways to showing that we can compete against the good sides," he said.

"What gives me great heart is that we've had some of those horrible losses over the last three years, but we've responded to each one of them.

"We'll learn the lessons out of it and delve really deeply into why and then go about working really hard on fixing it."
 

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Catch 22: Footy Christmas

Tony Shaw meets a Santa seemingly dressed by Collingwood fans. Source: Herald Sun

IT'S THE ONE time of year when even the AFL and the footy clubs are happy to put the feet up and let cricket take the spotlight.

It's the time of year when football slips out of the media and is replaced by a Test cricketer sitting on Santa's knee asking for Boxing Day Test win. Or a touring English cricketer celebrating the festive season by donning a fancy dress outfit. Or a veteran Aussie batsman cuddling his daughter as he hands her a present from under the Christmas tree.

But fear not, for all you footy tragics who get withdrawal symptoms at this time of year, we've delved into the vault and collated 22 photographs with a Christmas-football theme.

Have yourselves a very footy Christmas.

Click HERE to see the gallery.

If you have any names you think should be there, post a suggestion to twitter.com/wgreenheraldsun

 

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2012 countdown: Top 10 rivalries

Geelong players mob Tom Hawkins after the power forward steered the Cats to victory against Hawthorn. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

The best pictures of the 2012 AFL season

GEELONG and Hawthorn played out two classics but was the feud between former Collingwood allies Eddie McGuire and Mick Malthouse the biggest rivalry of the season?

Over the next 10 days we'll name the highlights, lowlights and simply strange moments of the year in footy in a countdown of top 10 countdowns.

We kicked off the series last week with the best 10 AFL games of 2012,the top 10 marks, the top 10 goals, the top 10 brain fades and the top 10 individual performances.

Today the countdown continues with the top 10 rivalries of the year.

Did we get it right? Leave a comment below

10. Mullet Wars: Maric v Walker
What started as a bit of fun between ex-teammates quickly turned into one of the most talked about do's in the game. The Mullet Wars, featuring Tiger Ivan Maric and Crow Taylor Walker dominated the headlines, the former claiming line honours with his more rugged, wild man mullet. Big Ivan also fired a shot across Walker's bow during the season, claiming the Crow forward had spent a bit of time "grooming" his look. Maric said his mullet was a long-term proposition. "It hasn't crossed my mind to cut it off…my plan is long term," he told SEN in May.

9. Tom Scully v Melbourne
Melbourne fans did little to hide their disappointment when Demon defector Tom Scully suited up for the first time against his old side as a GWS Giant. Scully was welcomed back onto the hallowed MCG turf with fans holding up money bags and "$cully" and "Juda$" emblazoned banners for the Round 13 clash. But the No.1 draft pick handled himself with aplomb, helping himself to 19 disposals including five tackles in the Giants 78-point loss.

8. Alastair Clarkson v MCG coaches box wall
Frustration got the better of Clarkson when he slammed an open hand through a wall in an MCG coaches box after Hawthorn leaked a late goal to nemesis Collingwood in Round 17. Clarkson was responding to an error which Magpie Chris Tarrant seized upon to cut the margin to 16 points at the first break. The premiership coach put his hand through the wall, leaving a chunk of plaster missing and a gaping hole in his wake. Channel 7 cameras captured Clarkson's wild moment of madness but Mick Malthouse defended the action, saying only those in the caper understood the frustration some player errors caused. Clarkson agreed to fork out the cost of repairs.

FoxSports Source: Fox Sports

FoxSports Source: Fox Sports

7. Clarkson v junior football umpire
Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson copped a reality check in July when he was banned for four weeks after verbally abusing a junior football umpire. The ban stemmed from an incident in which it was alleged Clarkson, who was acting as the runner for his son's U9 team, told a 19-year-old umpire's adviser to "F--- off" when the official told him to stop coaching players on the ground. Clarkson accepted full responsibility and said he had been left humiliated and disappointed by his actions at the South Metro Junior Football League game. "I got myself involved in a situation, with my profile and experience from the game, that I should have known better," he said at the time. "I should have pulled myself out of that situation or handled myself better in that situation." Clarkson will miss the first four games of his son's 2013 SMJFL season.

6. Mick Malthouse v Brett Ratten
Brett Ratten was confident of keeping his job. Mick Malthouse was happy being a media commentator. That was until Carlton did the unthinkable and lost to Gold Coast. The Suns pounced on the Blues, kicking the first six goals of the match, to set up a memorable 12-point victory at Metricon Stadium in Round 22. The shock loss sparked Blues chiefs into a round-table at the Malthouse residence. Days later, Ratten oozed class during his Visy Park swansong, thanking the club for the opportunities it had given him as a player and coach. Two weeks later and Malthouse was endorsed as Blues coach at an at-times fiery press conference. Malthouse remained adamant his first met with the Blues hierarchy after the loss to the Suns, despite speculation the takeover had been on the cards for some time. "There are going to be those naysayers saying that (the first meeting) happened before (last Monday)," he told the media scrum. "I have no doubt there are doubts about that."

5. Hawthorn v Sydney
Hawthorn drew first blood. But Sydney landed the knock out blow as the Swans went on to secure a fourth flag. Ryan O'Keefe starred in both games (Round 22 and Grand Final) with a combined total of 58 disposals, 27 tackles and five goals. Lance Franklin (seven goals in two games) and ball magnet Josh Kennedy (61 possessions, three goals) also made the most of their opportunities. Hawthorn leads the head-to-head ledger 6-4 over the past 10 matches.
4. The Weapon v Essendon player's hamstrings
The Weapon was the talk of Windy Hill during 2012 when the bulk of Essendon's list was cut down by soft-tissue injuries. The Bombers struggled to field their best side for much of the season, with Michael Hurley, Nathan Lovett-Murray and David Zaharakis among the worst affected by hamstring and quadriceps strains. The Bombers had more than 25 soft-tissue injuries for the season, Hurley tweaking his hamstring on three separate occasions.  Despite the apparent crisis, Essendon stuck by its man - the Weapon – writing off the injuries to heavy pre-season workload aimed at preparing the young Bombers for a tilt at the flag.

3. Travis Cloke v Collingwood
It was one of the longest contract negotiations in AFL history. But Collingwood got its man when power forward Travis Cloke inked a new four-year deal worth an estimated $4m. The negotiations coincided with Cloke's dramatic form slump and caused coach Nathan Buckley to accuse the forward of damaging his and the club's "brand". Cloke was sought after by as many as six clubs including Fremantle, Adelaide and Carlton.

2. Hawthorn v Geelong
As far as rivalries go, it doesn't get any bigger than Hawthorn and Geelong. The Hawks have lost nine on-the-trot to the Cats since their shock win in the 2008 Grand Final. Big Cat Tom Hawkins was the difference in 2012. The power forward slotted six against the Hawks in Round 19, including one after the siren for a thrilling two-point victory. Tomahawk was again prominent in Round 2, kicking three goals as the Cats went on to record another two-point win despite trailing the Hawks going into the final change. James Podsiadly stood tall with five goals, while skipper Joel Selwood almost knocked himself out crashing into Hawk Brendan Whitecross' legs late in the game. Kennett's Curse, hoodoo, call it what you like… watch out when these two renew pleasantries in Round 1, 2013.

1. Malthouse v McGuire
Hard to see Mick Malthouse getting a Christmas card from Eddie McGuire after a series of 2012 tongue-lashings between the former Collingwood allies. Malthouse re-ignited the feud after the Magpies Round 3 loss, claiming the players weren't responding to Nathan Buckley's style. McGuire hit back, urging Malthouse to "move on" and "give Bucks a go". The pair also butted heads during the Travis Cloke saga and Brett Ratten's departure from Carlton.

Follow Gilbert Gardiner on Twitter @gilbert0408

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Patton hits power button on track

GWS Giants' 2011 No.1 draft pick Jonathon Patton is revelling in his first full pre-season. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: The Daily Telegraph

GWS Giants' No. 1 draft pick Jonathon Patton is thriving in his first full pre-season after revealing how far knee surgery disrupted his first season in the AFL.

In an open reflection of his first year at the Giants, Patton revealed he wasn't fit enough at any point in 2012, carrying pain and swelling in his knee. He was also unhappy being away from teammates while training on his own.

He did not start training with teammates until March, when they had been training as a full squad for five months already.

He also admits to wincing every time he landed on the injured knee during their round 19 win over Port Adelaide - his seventh and last game of the season.

"You do really question yourself a few times in the rehab group," Patton said.

"It's just so taxing. Early mornings every day. You're not with the group, you're watching them train. You're sort of thinking, 'When are you going to play? When are you going to train?' All that adds up. But it makes you mentally stronger."

Now, having completed every task assigned to him by the GWS strength and conditioning staff during the eight weeks since they returned from their end of season holidays, Patton says he feels the fittest of his career.

"You don't really understand it until you're doing it," he said.

"Now that I've done all of this pre-season I can tell so much of a difference."

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Goldstein No.1 and aiming higher

Singular style: North Melbourne ruckman Todd Goldstein wants to stamp his authority on the job. Picture: Rob Leeson Source: Herald Sun

NORTH Melbourne ruckman Todd Goldstein says he is ready to stamp his authority on the Kangaroos' No.1 ruck role after Hamish McIntosh's departure.

While Goldstein has carried the Kangaroos' ruck division in McIntosh's injury-enforced absence in the past two years, the 24-year-old said he needed to step up and "make the most" of his new seniority.

McIntosh joined Geelong via this year's trade period after seven years at North.

"It was sad to see 'H' go, we were all very good mates with him," Goldstein said.

"But I think we have got to move on now and try and stamp our own authority on the game and our own footprint at the club.

"Probably in the last two years with his (McIntosh's) horrible injury run that he's had, I did have to step up and take that role. I enjoy it. I think every player wants to be the No.1 in their position.

"It's definitely a role that I take on. Coming into my seventh year now, I do really need to step up and make the most of it."

With McIntosh restricted to just seven games for 2012, Goldstein attended the most ruck contests in the competition and was ranked third for total hit-outs.

While eager to progress he also wants to see other ruck prospects develop.

"I think we've got a pretty good group of ruckmen now with Daniel Currie being brought on board, Majak (Daw) and Ben Mabon really starting to lift up," Goldstein said.

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2012 countdown: Top 10 recruits

The best pictures of the 2012 AFL season

Mitch Morton and Adam Goodes celebrate a goal. Morton featured in the Top 10 recruits. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: Herald Sun

IVAN Maric was unlucky not to be All-Australian in his first season at Tigerland, but did Mitch Morton's Grand Final cameo boost him into the top 10 recruits of the season?

As we count down the rest of the week we'll name the highlights, lowlights and simply strange moments of the year in footy in a countdown of top 10 countdowns.

We kicked off the series last week with the best 10 AFL games of 2012,the top 10 marks, the top 10 goals, the top 10 brain fades and the top 10 individual performances.

Today the countdown continues with the top 10 recruits of the year.

Did we get it right? Leave a comment below

10. MITCH CLARK (Melbourne)

The big fella didn't come cheaply – and the Dees moved heaven and earth to convince him to join – but Mark Neeld's fascination with the former Lion was quickly justified. Clark was a rare shining light for the Dees this season, up until his nasty foot injury. The spearhead jagged 29.18 from just 11 matches and repeatedly gave it his all in big floggings. Remember the Round 2 debacle against the Eagles? The Dees kicked nine goals for the day in a 108-point belting – and five came from Clark's boot. He straightened the Dees up and with Chris Dawes alongside next year and Jesse Hogan in 2014, Clark should continue to produce gold for the red and blue.

9. MITCH MORTON (Sydney)

"What? Mitch who?" you say. Yep, Morton, didn't make his Swans debut until Round 21. Yep, he had just 42 disposals for the season. Yep, he bagged five goals in 2012. But the livewire sneaks in because without him the Hawks could well be premiers. In the titanic struggle that was the Grand Final, the Tiger discard booted two crunch goals in the second term to spark his side. He justified John Longmire's decision then and there to gamble on him and now he'll forever be remembered as a premiership player. For sheer importance to the season, it's hard to leave this bloke out, as strange as that might just seem.

The 2012 AFL Grand Final at the MCG in Melbourne. Hawthorn vs. Sydney. Mitch Morton and Adam Goodes celebrate a goal Picture: Alex Coppel Source: Herald Sun

8. JEREMY CAMERON (Greater Western Sydney)

Cameron crept into the system as one of the faceless 17-year-old GWS signings, sparing him draft day anxieties, and you suspect he could've rivalled Jon Patton for No. 1 status if not for that. He burst onto the scene with five goals against the Dogs in Round 5, while his contested marking and clutch kicking against Richmond in the wet showed maturity well beyond his years. Cameron had 12 score assists to complement his 29 goals and clunked a staggering 26 contested marks. Goal-wise, he had a better debut season than Franklin, Pavlich, Brown, Nick Riewoldt and Cloke. Wayne Carey warmed to him quickly, declaring Cameron could wind up the AFL's best player. Cameron provided 20 per cent of GWS goals before being booked in for surgery and the Giants believe he and Patton can tear opposition defences to shreds as a one-two punch for the next decade. A shrewd find from the remote town of Dartmoor, western Victoria.

Jeremy Cameron celebrates a goal against the Tigers on Saturday. Picture: Anthony Reginato Source: Herald Sun

7. JOSH HILL (West Coast)

The Eagles snapped up Hill on the cheap – traded for just pick No. 49 – and it turned out to be a shrewd acquisition. With Mark LeCras, Mark Nicoski and Josh Kennedy missing most of the season, Hill's liveliness and goal power became an instant asset. The goalsneak turned his career around – only 18 months ago Chris Grant said he shouldn't wear the Dogs jumper again after a spiritless effort manning the mark – to produce his best-ever season. Hill bagged the most goals and behinds of his career, while turned his tackle numbers up to 69 from 22, showing his ability to apply pressure. Now the challenge is there to remain in the best 22 in 2013.

6. STEVE MORRIS (Richmond)

The mature-age defender added a layer of resilience to Richmond's leaky defence this year. Morris boasts raw pace and a knack for closing key opposition players out of matches – just ask Cyril Rioli. The dashing defender blanketed the Hawks star as the Tigers steamrolled the minor premier in Round 9, even burning free up forward and kicking a memorable goal. Morris also has the scalp of Steven Milne, who he shut down on the Friday night stage, with his closing speed, tackling and pressure acts quickly transforming him into one of the coaches' favourites. Morris's ability to spark teammates with his selfless style has become a highlight of the Tigers this year. You'd now back the son of Richmond premiership great Kevin Morris to advance and become a 100-game strong defender at Punt Rd.

AFL Round 6 - West Coast Eagles vs North Melbourne Kangaroos, Patersons Stadium, Perth. PICTURED- Eagle Josh Hill celebrates a goal in the final term. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: Herald Sun

5. SAM GIBSON (North Melbourne)

When North Melbourne was equal 15th on the ladder after Round 10 and fresh from a 115-point hiding at the hands of Hawthorn, coach Brad Scott decided to give Gibson a chance. It would prove to be a decision which helped the Roos spin their season around. In Gibson's first 11 games, just two were losses. Significantly, he was held to just 14 touches in both those defeats, highlighting how important he is to North's success. Gibson hit a five-week purple patch as the Roos' hot streak peaked, racking up 24, 36, 26, 26 and 28 possessions to officially transform into a key part of Scott's engine room. Gibson, 26, averaged 28 touches for Box Hill last year and his leadership, work-rate and gut running have already impressed at Arden St. Not bad for a very late rookie pick who is already on the 2013 senior list.

Mature age recruit Sam Gibson is making his presence felt as the Kangaroos enjoy a late-season form rivival. Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: Herald Sun

4. TOBY GREENE (Greater Western Sydney)

The Rising Star would have been a mighty tussle if Greene had remained eligible. After Round 11 Greene's lowest disposal count was 29, while he gathered 38 touches and booted two goals against Melbourne to show his dazzling potential. As a midfielder he's lightly-framed but incredibly gifted both on the inside and outside. His white-hot form prompted Kevin Sheedy to suggest he might be the best ball magnet he has coached in the past three decades. Greene wins his own ball and knows how to damage the opposition, while his average of 28 touches a game ranks him in the AFL's top 10 and above names including Cotchin, Dangerfield, Sidebottom, Mitchell and Judd. Not bad for a teenager who 18 months ago couldn't cement a place at Oakleigh Chargers. When the 2011 draft is revisited in years to come, expect Greene to rocket in from No. 11 – where he was chosen.

GWS midfielder Toby Greene is ineligible for the Rising Star award despite his outstanding debut season. Source: Getty Images

3. JON GILES (Greater Western Sydney)

The Power reject was a revelation for GWS this season. At 201cm and 99kg Giles was ready-made and showed his worth immediately, picking up 88 SuperCoach points from 12 touches and 26 hit-outs in the season-opener. Giles, 24, was integral in the Giants' maiden win, kicking three late goals to sink Gold Coast, while he obliterated Port Adelaide with 23 touches, two goals and 26 hitouts in their second victory this year. A glance at his numbers shows when Giles plays the Giants can bank on two tackles, 22 hitouts, a goal and 14 disposals a game. Those figures stack up with all of the game's elite ruckmen. After some conjecture, he's signed on and ready for a bigger 2013.

2. DAYNE ZORKO (Brisbane Lions)

The quick, gutsy midfielder finally got his AFL chance after winning an incredible four-straight best-and-fairest awards at Broadbeach and captaining Queensland's under-21 side. Zorko became an instant AFL revelation for his cult-figure name and natural ball-winning ability after debuting in Round 7 against Collingwood. In just his fifth game he racked up 24 touches, laid seven tackles and booted three goals to be his side's best player in the loss to Hawthorn. His star continued to shine from there, torching the Dogs with 29 classy touches as he and Tom Rockliff set up a memorable win on the road. Zorko, 23, cracked the 30-touch milestone against Sydney and stood up when it counted against Port Adelaide, booting two late goals from 23 touches as the Lions came from the clouds to win. He finished with 163 SuperCoach points and has cracked the ton nine times, highlighting his deadly efficiency. The Suns had the chance to zone-list him and didn't. Big mistake.

SPORT. BCM. 1/7/12. Dayne Zorko of the Lions during the AFL match between the Brisbane Lions and Melbourne Demons at the Gabba. Pic Darren England. Picture: Darren England Source: The Courier-Mail

1. IVAN MARIC (Richmond)

It was the big man's mullet that grabbed our attention in the NAB Cup when the Tigers unveiled their star recruit. Not long after, it was his football that did all the talking. The former Crow dragged the Tigers home several times during their early win bonanza, with Damien Hardwick clapping his hands red at Maric's ruck dominance and work around the ground. It was no wonder new Crows coach Brenton Sanderson tried to keep Maric, who fell out with Neil Craig, with the lion-hearted 26-year-old racking up 652 hit-outs. He'll play his 100th game in Round 2 and based on 2012 Tigers fans have a lot to get excited about looking towards his next 100.

Fans reach for Richmond ruckman Ivan Maric's mullet as he leaves the field. Picture: Michael Dodge. Source: AdelaideNow

Follow Sam Landsberger on Twitter @SamLandsberger

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Kreuzer backs Judd quitting

A champion runner whose stocks soared this year when he lowered the colours of top AFL Draft prospect Lachie Whitfield.

Carlton ruckman Matthew Kreuzer backed Chris Judd's call to step down as captain. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

CARLTON big man Matthew Kreuzer has backed Chris Judd's decision to step down as captain for next season.

"It was his call in the end,'' Kreuzer said.

"He's a terrific player so I don't think it will matter too much whether he's captain or not, he's still going to do the exact same thing and lead on the field.''

>> VIDEO ABOVE: See exclusive Pick Me video of a Blues draftee

After months of speculation, Judd officially announced his decision to hand over the reins earlier this month.

A new skipper is not expected to be named until February, but Andrew Carrazzo and Marc Murphy are said to be the leading candidates for the job.

"There are a few guys that are ready to step up,'' Kreuzer said.

"And it's probably a good thing to do it now because Juddy's still going to be there to guide them and help them out along the way. It'll be good I reckon.''

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Swans were last team standing

The Sydney Swans victorious after the AFL Grand Final 2012. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

MOST Sydneysiders think the Harbour City is the centre of the universe.

In the AFL this year, they were largely right. For once.

The fledgling Great Western Sydney made their AFL premiership debut when they faced the Swans in a standalone fixture at Homebush's ANZ Stadium to launch the home-and-away season on March 24.

And it was the Swans who were the last team standing on September 29 when they triumphed over Hawthorn at the MCG to hand the Sydney-South Melbourne club its fifth VFL-AFL flag.

Midfielder Ryan O'Keefe won the Norm Smith Medal for best-on-ground while co-captain Adam Goodes added to the legendary "Bloods" culture by playing most of the match on one leg.

But every man in a red-and-white jumper had a heroic story to tell. That is just how Sydney roll.

The Giants took the wooden spoon with two wins for the year.

But the two Sydney teams did not stop being in the news.

GWS lost high-priced rugby league recruit Israel Folau, while Sydney somehow managed to find the salary cap space to afford a $3.5 million, four-year offer to Adelaide forward Kurt Tippett.

It left a bitter taste in the mouths of the Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast who - like everybody bar Sydney - thought Tippett was going home to Queensland.

Adelaide were also aggrieved and played hardball in trade negotiations. It all then unravelled in spectacular style.

The Crows, Adelaide CEO Steve Trigg, football manager Phil Harper, ex-football manager John Reid and Tippett fronted the AFL Commission on salary cap rorting and draft tampering charges relating to Tippett's last contract with the Crows that was negotiated in 2009.

Adelaide ultimately lost draft picks and were fined while Trigg and Harper were suspended. Tippett's manager Peter Blucher is under investigation by the AFL Players Association.

Sydney finally got their man in the pre-season draft but Tippett will not be available until the round 13 clash with Port Adelaide after being handed an 11-game ban.

Closer to home, the Lions made strides up the ladder with 10 wins after managing four victories in 2011. The round 10 thriller against West Coast and the round 21 win over Adelaide provided hope.

Gold Coast extended the contract of senior coach Guy McKenna before claiming premiership points but beefed up the role of football director Malcolm Blight. The Suns' first win did not come until round 16.

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2012 countdown: Top 10 departures

The best pictures of the 2012 AFL season

Corey Enright consoles retiring Geelong veteran Matthew Scarlett after the loss to Fremantle - his final match. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

THE Kurt Tippett saga seemed to rip apart rainforests this off-season. But did million-dollar man Israel Folau's defection cause a bigger stir? Or what about Liam Jurrah?

As we count down the rest of the week we'll name the highlights, lowlights and simply strange moments of the year in footy in a countdown of top 10 countdowns.

We've well and truly kicked off the countdowns with the best 10 AFL games of 2012,the top 10 marks, the top 10 goals, the top 10 brain fades and the top 10 individual performances. Yesterday, it was the top 10 recruits of 2012.

Today the countdown continues with the top 10 departures of the year.

Did we get it right? Leave a comment below

10. BRENT PRISMALL (Essendon)

Well, sort of departed. The unlucky former Bomber and Cat went through clubs like Tiger Woods in the lead-up to the pre-season draft. First he stayed on at Windy Hill and was told by James Hird he'd be redrafted, then it was over to train at Alberton where he was reportedly offered a one-year deal, and finally Prismall decided "nah, let's stay in Victoria" and headed back home to train with the Dogs. But in a cruel twist, the Bulldogs signed Nick Lower and then handed their final position on their list to 28-year-old player welfare manager Brett Goodes. With Goodes' former job open and Prismall suddenly unemployed, the Whitten Oval powerbrokers had little hesitation opting for him over a Seek ad. What a whirlwind two months for Prismall, who is stranded on 61 AFL games. And in yet another twist the 26-year-old is expected to sign at Dogs affiliate Williamstown and play there, with Goodes, next season. This was a pretzel of a story.

Brent Prismall trains with the Bombers at Windy Hill. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

9. JASON GRAM (St Kilda)

One of the more bizarre exits from the AFL system we've seen. Gram's career came to a sudden, public and dramatic end in October. The St Kilda line-breaker had his contract terminated after he was arrested and charged before being convicted and fined $5000 on six criminal charges. The 28-year-old played 152 games in red, white and black threads after crossing from the Brisbane Lions. His exit effectively allowed the Saints to sign Dylan Roberton at the death of delisted free agency. With football gone, fingers crossed Gram gets his life on track in 2013. Right now he's enjoying some sun in Thailand… a nice change of pace after 10 sweltering pre-seasons.

Jason Gram has been sacked by St Kilda. Source: Herald Sun

8. MATTHEW PRIMUS (Port Adelaide)

How unlucky is this bloke? Does his knee and misses playing in Port's inaugural flag in 2004 and sacked from the same club after just 47 games at the helm as senior coach. Not sure Primus is all for the AFL's expansion plans… of the 34 losses he coached the two against the baby clubs seemed to haunt him dearly. The Power was the first club to go down to the Suns last year, as serious pressure to retain his job mounted, before they became the first established club to go down at the hands of GWS this season. That was the death knell. So, what's next? If you can't beat them join them – Primus is the new midfield coach at the Suns.

Port Adelaide coach Matthew Primus during a Power training session. Picture: Matt Turner Source: The Advertiser

7. BRETT RATTEN (Carlton)

Much like Primus, Ratten's "coach killer" came against the AFL newbies. After a spirited fightback to crawl into top-eight contention, all the Blues had to do was travel north and eclipse the Suns to keep their season alive. They failed. Miserable. And a prickly Ratten presser after the match pointed to the fact he knew this season would be his last. Ratten decided to coach the final game of the year after being told he was axed and the Mick Malthouse lure materialised. Ratts is off to Glenferrie next year to aid the Hawks. It's been a quiet addition, but that could be one of the recruits of the year.

6. LIAM JURRAH (Melbourne)

Talk about a turbulent year. Jurrah battled an injury curse, was charged over an alleged machete attack, walked out on the Dees and was overlooked by Port Adelaide after a brief training stint at Alberton. Now, he's set to play under Port's eyes in the SANFL with the possibility of reigniting his AFL career in 2014. The mercurial forward was seemingly set for a promising stint at the Dees after being handed Russell Robertson's No. 24 jumper and thumping home 40 goals last year. He could get on the park just once this season – in a 101-point loss to premiers Sydney. Ouch.

Sydney Swans v Melbourne Demons, SCG - Demons Liam Jurrah on a lead. Picture: Anthony Reginato Source: Herald Sun

5. ADRIAN ANDERSON (AFL)

The AFL lost one of its heavyweights when Adrian Anderson suddenly resigned this month. In his nine years as football operations manager, Anderson handled a lot of big issues he must have at times wanted to handball off. Check this list to see what he put up with. But, he left highly respected for his dealings both with the media and at AFL House after entering a faceless 31-year-old handpicked by Andrew Demetriou.

AFL football operations manager Adrian Anderson. Source: Herald Sun

4. MATTHEW SCARLETT (Geelong)

Seriously, how good was this bloke? Three flags, a best-and-fairest and a mortgage on the full-back post in the All-Australian side. Eight times Scarlett made the team of the year, while after 284 games stopping the league's gorillas he is firmly entrenched among the greats. Scarlett will leave a massive hole in Chris Scott's defence and was hands-down the biggest star to depart the game after 2012. Six times this man collected at least 30 touches, showing his ability to kill sides on the rebound, while like many former Cats he's off to the Dogs in 2013 – as a part-time coach under Brendan McCartney.

3. BRENDON GODDARD (St Kilda)

Day one of free agency and one of St Kilda's marquee men packs up and shifts to Essendon for mega bucks. Bang. The BJ defection kick-started the new age of AFL. A No. 1 draft pick and Grand Final star walking was big, especially with talk Goddard could have captained the Saints if he had stayed. In fairness he wasn't coming off an outstanding season and the system did adequately reimburse St Kilda, with Goddard winning it the No. 13 draft pick, used to help secure exciting ruckman Tom Hickey.

Essendon recruit Brendon Goddard models the 9 jumper he will wear next year Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

2. ISRAEL FOLAU (GWS Giants)

Gave up? Mercenary? Did his job? Lacked the ability? Everyone had their say when Izzy walked out on the Giants after just 13 games at the top level. He never kicked more than one goal, picked up more than five kicks in a game and averaged just 1.4 tackles a match, but, gee, his pay cheque would've been handsome. The biggest shock was when Folau snubbed the NRL, instead opting to play with the NSW Waratahs in 2013. Yep, that's three codes in four years for the one-time league great. And it didn't take long for comedians on social media to link him to Melbourne Heart, Sydney Sixers and synchronised swimming at the next Olympics following his defection.

Israel Folau has been visiting prisoners at Parklea prison. Source: Getty Images

1. KURT TIPPETT (Adelaide)

Oh boy. Where do you start? Nearly the preliminary final hero. Now the all-time greatest villain for Adelaide fans. The Crows lost draft picks, Tippett for nothing, huge fines and a spread of embarrassment unlikely to be topped. An uglier departure could not be scripted, and all because Adelaide was hell-bent on keeping the key forward at the end of 2009. But Tippett got to the Swans, will earn about $70,000 a game next season and walked away with his registration in hand and just an 11-game suspension to serve. Thank heavens that two-month saga is done and dusted.

Where to? Kurt Tippett has a big decision to make. Source: Herald Sun

Follow Sam Landsberger on Twitter @SamLandsberger

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Altitude gives new attitude

Matthew Kreuzer says the pain does not stop with Christmas break. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

AFL clubs have closed for Christmas, but the training pain does not stop for the players, says Carlton ruckman Matthew Kreuzer.

The Blues camp split on December 21 and won't return to Visy Park until January 7.

In that time, Kreuzer will holiday in country Victoria and Noosa - all the while keeping a commitment to his training.

"We've all been given our programs from the fitness side of things," Kreuzer said.

"There'll be a few running sessions and weights as well. We've got to try and stay fit.

"I'm tipping (most of the players) would all be pretty similar.

"We've all got the same number of sessions, just some people might have different types of running sessions depending on their position, but it's all pretty similar.

"It's about self-discipline, but obviously the club want to know what you've done so you have to record your sessions."

Kreuzer said it could be sometimes tough to keep up the motivation to train individually, especially when family and friends were relaxing on their summer break.

"But then you think of the big picture and you know you've got to do it," he said.

"We put a lot of hard work in before Christmas so you don't want to let that waste away.

"It's really important to keep on top of things.

"You feel good for the rest of the day anyway if you do it in the morning.

"You've got that freedom, when you're away from the club, to do those sessions whenever you want.

"It's only a two-week break so you don't really get that luxury to fully relax and unwind."

Kreuzer said the club's training camp in Arizona last month had been beneficial from a physical and team bonding perspective and he was keen not to let slip the gains made on the trip.

"It was pretty solid," he said.

"This pre-season has been a bit different obviously, heading over to Arizona.

"Spending two weeks over there and then to have a solid three weeks before Christmas, it hasn't felt as bad.

"But it was good to get away with the boys and good to try different training methods. Obviously, training at altitude has been proven to work so let's hope it has for us."

But with his training program set, was there any room to indulge on Christmas Day?

"Absolutely," he said.
 

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Johnson heads back to Dogs

Evasive outside runner with class and good goal sense.

Midfield wrecking ball Hrovat picks up possessions with ease and nearly every AFL club has shown interest in drafting him. Is he the next Sam Mitchell?

Former Western Bulldogs skipper Brad Johnson is heading back to the kennel. Source: Herald Sun

WESTERN Bulldogs legend Brad Johnson is heading back to Whitten Oval as the Dogs continue to load their coaching artillery with former greats of the game.

Johnson joins as a specialist coach and will work in development, imparting his knowledge on the Dogs' first, second and third-year players.

The six-time All-Australian retired at the end of the 2010 season and came close to accepting a coaching position at Geelong the following season.

Johnson established himself in the media this year, commentating games for Fox Footy.

The 36-year-old's role at the Dogs will be a part-time mentoring and skills position as the club continues to rebuild under senior coach Brendan McCartney.

Last month the Dogs signed former Geelong stars Matthew Scarlett and Cameron Mooney to part-time coaching positions.

"When presented with the opportunity to bring Brad on board – we wholeheartedly grabbed it," Dogs football manager James Fantasia said today.

"There is no question that Johnno will bring an incredible amount of experience, skills and knowledge to our younger players – who are just thrilled to have him on board."

Luke Dahlhaus, who inherited the No. 6 jumper from Johnson, will work closely with the former captain, along with prized draft picks Jake Stringer, Jackson Macrae and Nathan Hrovat.
 

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Demetriou's new No.2 named

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou with Gillon McLachlan at the Australian Football Hall of Fame. Picture: Andrew Filipovic Source: Herald Sun

AFL football operations manager Adrian Anderson announces his resignation. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

ANDREW Demetriou's likely successor Gillon McLachlan has been promoted to the new position of deputy CEO of the AFL.

McLachlan will also fill the role of acting head of football operations until a replacement is named for Adrian Anderson, who finishes at the league tomorrow.

The appointments are effective immediately.

The ascent of McLachlan, who knocked back a $1.5 million offer to be CEO of the NRL in September, is believed to have been a factor behind Anderson's resignation.

McLachlan held the job of chief operating officer from 2008-12. His responsibilities in that job - including broadcasting, venue deals and digital media - will now be part of the deputy CEO job description.

A new head of football operations is expected to be appointed before the start of the 2013 season.

A restructure of the league executive has followed the recent departures of Anderson, human resources manager Christina Ogg and strategy and marketing boss Andrew Catterall.

The league will advertise in January for a new football operations manager, "people and culture" manager and a manager of fan development and customer acquisition.

"It is timely to establish a new look team at the executive level to ensure the AFL maintains an organisational structure that is aligned with our future strategic priorities," Demetriou said in a statement.

"Gill has made a significant contribution to the AFL across a number of strategic fronts and this promotion is well deserved."

Tomorrow will be Anderson's final day at AFL House after nine years in the job.

Anderson says he is unsure what his next career move will be and has distanced himself from speculation linking him to the vacant North Melbourne CEO position.

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Surgery won't hold Clark back

Tough, courageous and a born leader. The Dees have a steal in Viney, who will play Round 1 next year.

Melbourne forward Mitch Clark underwent surgery today. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

STAR Melbourne forward Mitch Clark went under the knife today - but don't sweat Demons fans - he is still on track to resume running in the new year.

Clark went in today to have staples removed from his right foot, which he suffered a season-ending injury to in June.

The former Lion sustained a 'Lisfranc injury' to his foot, a painful setback which ruined the career of Trent Croad.

Clark tweeted: "Just a quick in and out to get my staples out. Always part of the plan. Won't slow me down."

The 25-year-old was in blistering form for the Dees before the bitter blow and was shaping as their shining light for the season.

If he recovers before Round 1 he will join a powerful new set up, along with premiership forward Chris Dawes.

The Dees will add boom spearhead Jesse Hogan to their mix in 2014 as well, after nabbing the West Australian teenager in the mini-draft.

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Giants target six wins in 2013

GWS coach Kevin Sheedy wants his fledging club to win six games in 2013. Source: Getty Images

GREATER Western Sydney coach Kevin Sheedy is targeting as many as six wins in 2013 as his fledgling club aims to build on a solid inaugural season.

To many pundits, the Giants' two wins this year with 36 debutants in their squad and average home crowds of around 11,000 in a highly competitive Sydney football market can be regarded as a relative success.

Although veteran mentor Sheedy concedes winning games is "pretty crucial" for the future of the Giants, the code's most prominent ambassador likes to look at the bigger picture.

For Sheedy, that's growing the AFL's profile in Australia's largest city, as he philosophised today about his goals for 2013.

And Sheedy believes crosstown rivals the Swans' premiership win will only benefit his side.

Far from being intimidated by the A-League's Sydney derby that attracted a raucous crowd of 26,000 last weekend, Sheedy says the AFL should be excited that sports fans crave city rivalries.

Reflecting on a challenging year that yielded wins over Gold Coast and Port Adelaide, Sheedy insists a solid foundation has been laid for the future.

"You'd hope we can get between three to six wins (in 2013) depending on injuries and how the season plans out," he said after a tough training session in warm conditions.

"We ran out with the most first-game players this year in the history of footy, so that makes it hard to balance out where you're going to be the following year."

As big a concern for the 64-year-old is building the AFL in Sydney and avoiding the fate of the Gold Coast Suns, who suffered a 20 per cent drop in memberships and crowds in their second season in the competition this year.

Sheedy gave a back-handed compliment to his former club Richmond, who he played 251 games for between 1967-1979.

Despite not winning a premiership over the past 30 years, the Tigers were praised for creating a culture of popularity in the face of some on-field struggles.

"It's quite an amazing story," he said. "It's about how you create a football club.

"(And) the best thing about this club (GWS) is it's a white canvas. We can create our own history."

Sheedy hopes GWS can boost their membership tally to 15,000 with an exciting crop of youngsters coming through and having recruited the likes of experienced defenders Bret Thornton from Carlton and Stephen Gilham from Hawthorn.

"There's 350,000 people in Sydney that barrack for AFL clubs," he said.

"We need to find them and encourage them to build our game.

"If we're the second club (they support), I don't have a problem with that, although I'd love us to be their first."

Far from embracing a siege mentality against rival football codes, Sheedy welcomes the options open to youngsters in the west.

"We're the only country that has the four codes - AFL, rugby league, rugby union, soccer," he said.

"It's the best way to go in this country. We deliver the whole menu in football. That's what makes us a special place."
 

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Dees to respond to tanking claims

Melbourne will formally respond to allegations of tanking in late January. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

THE AFL has asked Melbourne to respond to evidence which could lead to the club being charged with tanking for draft picks in 2009.

The league said any charges that resulted were expected to be laid in late January, after the Demons have had time to respond.

"Evidence gathered during the investigation will this week be provided to relevant parties to give them an opportunity to comment," the league said in a statement.

"It is expected that a final decision regarding whether any charges under AFL rules are warranted will be made in late January 2013."

AFL investigators have already interviewed key Demons football staff and officials about the allegations.

If the allegations are substantiated, it could lead to the AFL Commission handing down severe penalties for the club and individuals found to have been involved.

Demons president Don McLardy said earlier this month that Melbourne planned to defend themselves against the claims.

"I can assure you we will use every resource available to us to defend the integrity of the Melbourne Football Club in the strongest possible way," he said.

The long-running investigation was sparked by comments made by former Melbourne midfielder Brock McLean, now with Carlton, in a television interview in July in which he claimed ``Blind Freddy'' would have realised the club wasn't trying to win late in the 2009 season.

Melbourne's poor record that season meant they qualified for a priority pick, giving them the first two selections in that year's draft, under a system that has since been scrapped.
 

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Crowley suffers injury setback

Fremantle midfielder Ryan Crowley has suffered a pectoral tear, but the club isn't confident it won't hinder his 2013 season, Picture: Faith Moran Source: PerthNow

FREMANTLE tagger Ryan Crowley has a torn pectoral muscle and will be on a modified training program for the next six weeks.

Scans confirmed Crowley sustained the injury during a recent training session at Fremantl Oval, but the 2012 Doig medallist will not have to undergo surgery to repair the damage.

Dockers coach Ross Lyon would not delay the start of Crowley's 2013 campaign after the 28-year-old enjoyed a breakout 2012 season in the purple and white and became one of Fremantle's most important players.

"We expect Ryan to be able to maintain his fitness and be available for selection come Round 1 of the season proper," Lyon said.

Crowley had been on of Fremantle's strongest performers on the track since pre-season training began in early November.
 

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Water torture a dry argument

The AFLPA has raised concerns about a proposal to limit the amount of ground time for trainers, particularly in Perth and Brisbane where the hotter climate poses problems for visiting teams. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

PLAYERS are at odds with the AFL over a plan to slash the time trainers can spend on the ground.

Under the proposal, trainers would be permitted to run drinks to players on the ground only after a goal.

AFL game analysis manager Joel Bowden raised the proposal in a presentation to AFL Players' Association delegates last week.

Bowden said the push was part of an effort to reduce on-field congestion.

Players have slammed the bid -- resurrected after being first raised last year -- arguing it posed health risks.

It is understood the league also wants to cut the number of trainers per team from five to four.

The AFL has put to the players that the number of goals scored in a game provides ample on-field drinking time.

It was suggested in the AFLPA delegates' meeting that some teams could use trainers deliberately to congest parts of the ground in games or to pass messages to players.

Players contacted by the Herald Sun yesterday rejected those suggestions.

The AFLPA did not support the move when the league floated changes to trainer rules last year.

Some of the game's stars said yesterday the proposal was dangerous, considering the increasing physical demands required to play at the top level.

Symptoms of dehydration include muscle weakness, poor concentration and dizziness.

One player contacted by the Herald Sun yesterday said it was "crazy" because of the potential for long periods between goals.

The AFLPA noted three key reasons for rejecting the proposal in a laws-of-the-game submission last year.

"We do not see how this will contribute significantly to reducing congestion," the response said.

"There are ramifications from a health and safety/performance perspective due to the importance of hydration in our game.

"Not all players rotate heavily and there are long periods between goals in some games."

AFL spokesman Patrick Keane said yesterday he was not aware of planned changes to the rules on trainers.

Keane said the only restrictions on trainers were the forward 50m for kick-ins and the centre square at centre bounces.

Games in Queensland and Perth present a greater dehydration risk when temperatures rise above 30C early and late in the season.

West Coast's elimination final win over North Melbourne was played in stifling conditions with the temperature hitting 28C at bounce down.

Games in Darwin and Cairns are scheduled next season.

The AFL has been determined to ease on-field congestion and has brought in several rules -- including the substitute system -- to help make play more free-flowing.
 

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2012 countdown: Top 10 brain fades

The best pictures of the 2012 AFL season

Richmond's Daniel Connors lost his career after sleeping through a training session with Dustin Martin. Picture: Michael Dodge Source: Herald Sun

MOST agree the match review panel had a stinker, the Bombers should have just caught the bus to Wangaratta and Chris Judd's "chicken-wing" tackle was a brain explosion. But it's hard to go past Daniel Connors and his faulty alarm clock as the biggest brain fade of 2012.

Over the next week we'll name the highlights, lowlights and simply strange moments of the year in footy in a countdown of top 10 countdowns.

We kicked off the series on Monday with the best 10 AFL games of 2012, and followed that with the top 10 marks on Tuesday. Yesterday it was the best 10 goals of 2012.

And today the countdown continues with the top 10 brain explosions of 2012.

Did we get it right? Leave a comment below

10. Mark Stevens not putting money on Daniel Talia to win the Rising Star
"EVERY now and then, a betting price sits up and slaps you in the face."
That was how Stevo kicked off his Hardboiled column on June 28. He called it – Daniel Talia to win the Rising Star. At the time the stingy Crow was paying a tasty $51. Did Stevo get on? No. No doubt he'd love that call over again. Still, amazing foresight and hopefully it resulted in a few extravagant Grand Final parties for loyal SuperFooty readers.

Daniel Talia,Kathryn and Jack Talia, Picture: Ludbeyw Source: Herald Sun

9. Stephen Milne's homophobic slur to Harry O'Brien
Harry O and his Pies took no offence, but that didn't stop the AFL slapping Saint Stephen Milne on the wrist for his bizarre sledge in August this year. The goalsneak was alleged to have called O'Brien a "f------ homo" in a heated verbal exchange. Umpire Dean Margetts lodged a report and paid a 50m penalty for abuse and Milne was ultimately fined $3000, forced to apologise and undertake an education program. It was the second time in three years Milne has been accused of a homophobic jibe – both against the Pies.

Collingwood v St Kilda. MCG. milne and o,brien. Picture: Ludbeywayne Source: Herald Sun

8. Will Minson abuses Danyle Pearce
This is the one that divided the football community – where do you draw the line when over the white line? Minson's sledge about Pearce's mother outraged the former Power midfielder and was his second attack on a Port player in four years. It cost him a one-match suspension and the big fella fought back tears as he made a public apology.

Port's Danyle Pearce wrestles with Bulldogs' Will Minson at Etihad Stadium. Picture: Michael Klein Source: AdelaideNow

7. Matthew Scarlett decking Hayden Ballantyne
It was only Round 1, but tempers flared when the Cats met Ross Lyon's new Fremantle side. After three quarters of niggling and mouthing off, Scarlett snapped. He landed one right on Ballantyne's chin, flooring the Docker antagonist and immediately being booked. Scarlett conceded post-match he had cost the Cats the match and earned himself a three-week ban in the process. But most of the football fraternity sympathised with Scarlett, and some rival players even took to Twitter to endorse the Cat's left hook.

Hayden Ballantyne of the Dockers goes to ground after being punched by Geelong's Matthew Scarlett. Source: Getty Images

6. Essendon decides to charter private jet to Wangaratta for pre-season game
The tortoise and the hare came to life in February this year when the Bombers never made it to their Wangaratta showdown against St Kilda, despite chartering two airplanes. As wild weather lashed north-east Victoria, and with the Saints already at the country ground after travelling by bus the day before, Essendon's planes were unable to land. The result? The Saints held a glorified training session for the strong contingent of country fans, were awarded maximum NAB Cup points for the match and Essendon locked in by the AFL for a take-two next year. And yes, they will get the bus.

St Kilda captain Nick Riewoldt stands in the rain in Wangaratta. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

5. Brock McLean tweeting "your mum gave me aids"
It was an interesting year for Brock. He returned from the footy wilderness to Carlton's side, kicked a match-winning goal to sink Richmond's season, dumped the tanking bomb on old mob Melbourne and then told a twitter troll his mum had aids. McLean tweeted "Today can f--- right off" which drew a random punter to bite back with: "Did you finally get delisted?" McLean then unleashed with: "No, your mum has given me aids" and the entire Carlton administration simultaneously face-palmed. The result? A $5000 fine and being forced to undertake an education program, along with the old AFL classic – a suspended one-game ban.

4. Pavlich misses All-Australian team
He was a lock in seemingly everybody's side and the captain in most – but the Fremantle superstar couldn't even jag a place on the David Dench in the only one that mattered. Pavlich let slip his omission the day of the announcement, revealing he was not invited to the gala night in Melbourne. What the? He only booted 69 goals and seemingly dragged Fremantle into the top eight in the second half of the season with a swag of best-afield performances. Instead Buddy got the nod, but at least for Pav he already has six AA Guernseys in the pool room.

3. Match review panel – take your pick
Was it Sharrod Wellingham escaping with just a three-game ban for the bump that left Kade Simpson concussed and with a shattered jaw? Or how about citing Joel Selwood for pushing brother Adam over? Jack Ziebell did everything to escape suspension but was eventually slugged four weeks for collecting Blue Aaron Joseph. That ban led to the football world crying foul and Roos coach Brad Scott declaring it had been a "bitterly disappointing day for football."

Sharrod Wellingham of the Magpies bumps Kade Simpson of the Blues during the round 15 AFL match between the Collingwood Magpies and the Carlton Blues at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on July 6, 2012 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

Jack Ziebell copped a four-match suspension for this hit on Aaron Joseph last week. Source: Getty Images

2. Chris Judd's chicken-wing tackle
It was hailed Juddy's impromptu WWE audition and it immediately drew the ire of North Melbourne's onball contingent. The Carlton captain inexplicably lifted and twisted the defenceless arm of Leigh Adams, leaving the Roo writhing in agony. The "chicken-wing" tackle dominated headlines for the next week and, eventually, Judd was dealt a four-game suspension after the match review panel handballed his case directly to the tribunal. Couple that with Juddy's eye-gouging case and elbow to the face of Matthew Pavlich and he soon could fill this list himself.

Chris Judd appears to tug on the arm of Kangaroos hardman Leigh Adams. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

1. Dan Connors sleeps in
Finally, Dan Connors was back. The Tigers bad boy won the faith back of his club – and a place in the senior side against GWS. What a fairytale. Fast-forward two weeks and he was gone. Connors and good mate Dusty Martin slept in, missed a training session and it was all over. He swears it was a simple, innocent alarm malfunction but after countless chances the goalkicker was marched out of Punt Rd. Connors played out the season in the Goulburn Valley Football League and is set to play in the EDFL next season. No disrespect to Aberfeldie, but it's a long way from playing a part for the resurgent yellow and black army.

Daniel Connors was sacked by Richmond. He is now wanting to re-ignite his career after battling his drug and alcohol problems. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

TOMORROW: THE TOP 10 INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCES OF 2012

Follow Sam Landsberger Twitter: @SamLandsberger

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Blues buy into Malthouse way

Coach Mick Malthouse lays down the law at Carlton training yesterday. Picture: Norm Oorloff Source: Herald Sun

Andrew Walker, Chris Judd, Kade Simpson, Dennis Armfield and Andrew Collins at Carlton training yesterday. Picture: Norm Oorloff

CARLTON midfield coach Rob Wiley says Mick Malthouse's hard-line coaching style hasn't wavered since the pair last worked together during the three-time premiership coach's tenure at West Coast.

Wiley, who will act as Carlton's director of development and coaching, said Malthouse has instilled a heavy defensive strategy this preseason, which will be pivotal to the side's new-look game plan.

"He's changed slightly (over time), but what's given him success before with other teams he's introducing that here at Carlton," Wiley said of Malthouse.

"And that's a lot of discipline, a lot of hard work, and working together. It's about being a team.

"You can't win games of football if there's only 18 contributors. It's about everyone contributing and everyone playing their role. That hasn't changed in the way Mick's gone about it."

With one of the Blues' five-man leadership members likely to snap up the vacant captaincy position, Wiley backed Chris Judd to maintain a strong leadership presence within the playing group.

Wiley hopes to work one-on-one with Judd to help improve the five-time best and fairest winner's deficiencies.

"Chris will play exactly the same role as he'd done ever since he's started playing football," Wiley said.

"He leads by example and you can't ask for any more. He'll just play exactly the way he's played in the past. It's a bonus having anther leader."
 

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Smashing alternative for Steve

GWS midfielder Stephen Coniglio with teammates Callan Ward and Tom Scully and Sydney Thunder cricketer Cameron Borgas. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

IN another life, Stephen Coniglio could have been batting along side superstar Chris Gayle for the Sydney Thunder tonight.

The Greater Western Sydney midfielder spent years playing representative cricket for Western Australia, and even braved a few lethal spells from NSW and Australian quick Pat Cummins during an Australian championships.

Coniglio didn't look out of place as he and GWS teammates Tom Scully and Callum Ward visited a Thunder training session ahead of their BBL clash with Adelaide at ANZ Stadium.

The Thunder and GWS have more in common than they realise. They both struggled in the Big Bash League and AFL respectively in their first seasons. And both are trying to win the hearts and minds of Western Sydney.

Coniglio said it was up to both teams to keep moving forward and learn from their experiences.

"They struggled last year, we struggled last year, but there is hope, and all we can do is take little steps and always strive to be better," Coniglio said.

"For a while I thought about (pursuing) cricket, but I'm happy in the AFL. I still watch cricket every day, and it's great to interact with these guys."
 

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Leaders on trial for Blues captaincy

Defender Nick Duigan, who is one of several Carlton players auditioning for the club captaincy over the course of the pre-season, says former skipper Chris Judd's role around the club will stay the same.

Carlton defender Nick Duigan during a training session at Visy Park. Picture: Michael Dodge. Source: Getty Images

CARLTON'S next captain will be decided after two months of careful observation by coach Mick Malthouse.

Leadership group newcomer Nick Duigan said yesterday that Marc Murphy, Andrew Carrazzo and Kade Simpson would be under the Malthouse microscope until after the NAB Cup.

Duigan and the other member of the five-man leadership group, Jarrad Waite, are not candidates for the captaincy.

"Mick has said that the captain will obviously be chosen from that five-man leadership group so from there he wants to get a better read on the players, see how captaincy might impact on them and see how we handle it on game day through the NAB Cup," Duigan said.

"I think towards the end of that period Mick and the group will sit down and nut out a leader."

Duigan, a rugged defender only two years into his Carlton career at age 28, said any of the three would be a great successor to Chris Judd, who has stepped down.

"They're all well and truly capable," he said.

"Carrazzo is really demanding and vocal and I suppose a more extroverted leader within the group.

"Simpson is not as outspoken and loud as Carrazzo and prefers to have his onfield leadership do most of the talking. He's certainly a very courageous player and plays the team role.

"It doesn't hurt that (Murphy) is one of the best players in the country. He's really grown into leadership material and he's demanding of himself, and that just rubs off on all the players."

Duigan said he expected Judd's role to change only in an official capacity.

"The way he goes about it around the club will be the same," he said. "He's still got plenty of fire in the belly and wants another flag.

"It gives plenty of other guys an opportunity and I think there are a few guys who are more than capable of stepping in and fulfilling that role, so we'll just look forward to seeing how that all unfolds."

Duigan said the Carlton players were adjusting to Malthouse's trademark direct approach after six years under Brett Ratten.

"The drills have changed, the meetings are a bit shorter and sharper, he's very clear on his messages and he has a different philosophy on how he wants his side to play," he said.

"We're all trying to learn that as best we can."

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Now I'm home, says Kurt Tippett

Former Adelaide Crow Kurt Tippett in a Sydney Swans jumper for the first time after his first training session with his new club. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

FORMER Adelaide key forward Kurt Tippett was at peace with his controversial departure from the Crows as he settled into his new role with the Sydney Swans yesterday.

Tippett will serve an 11-match suspension and must cough up a $50,000 fine for his part in the messy saga that was sparked by a dodgy contract signed in 2009 - but he is ready to move on.

He was in a sunny mood as he spoke ahead of his first training session with the Swans at Lakeside Oval yesterday.

He would not be drawn into a slanging match over the episode that has harmed both his and the Crows' reputations. "I enjoyed my time in Adelaide," Tippett said.

"It was a good place, I met some great people, enjoyed my football there.

"But that's in the past now. I'm really excited about my future here.

"I felt that Sydney was the perfect fit for me. A tremendous club, a very successful club, premiership-winning club.

"One that's very well respected and Sydney's a great place as well. The future here is very bright.

"There was a little bit of time when I guess my future was a little bit unclear. But it's fantastic to be here.

"I look forward to playing football, settling in, training hard, preparing myself well and earning the guys' trust over summer.

"It's been a challenge, for myself and my family, but I'm happy to put all of that behind me now.

"I'm really excited about my future here in Sydney.

I felt that Sydney was the perfect fit for me ... the future here is very bright

"It's very exciting to be here in Sydney after a long off-season and a few little challenges. It's fantastic to be here to meet the players and meet the coaches and looking forward to playing football."

Tippett was given a prince's welcome by the Swans, with team-mate Jarrad McVeigh and coach John Longmire speaking highly of their marquee recruit.

Tippett said he had not spoken to Greater Western Sydney, which is understood to have delisted ruckman Dean Brogan in an attempt to land his services, confirming speculation he was signed and delivered to the Swans well before the saga surrounding his last Adelaide contract became public.

"I have the utmost respect for the Sydney Swans," Tippett said.

"They've got a great culture and I really want to be part of that."

Tippett was also unconcerned about the pressure that came with his price tag, which has been estimated to land between $800,000 and $1 million for his first season.

The Advertiser yesterday spoke to a range of Crows insiders, and the reaction was mixed - some remain angry with the defection and his perceived lack of loyalty, others said it was an unfortunate affair as a player who was thought of as a dedicated professional, a thinker and a considerate team member was lost to the club.

"I set myself pretty high standards and I'm just worried about living up to my own standards," Tippett said.

"He (Longmire) expects me to prepare myself and come in and play a role for this side.

"That's my focus - to develop a role I can play really well. I'm not going to speculate as to when my first game will be.

"Obviously I know I'll have 11 weeks out, I'll focus on training hard during that time and we'll take it from there.

"That's a non-issue for me now.

"I obviously missed a few games to concussion but came back was able to play the way I wanted to in the end so I'm happy that won't be an issue moving forward."

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Heat's on for Power's new rookie

Sandover Medallist Kane Mitchell endured his first Port Adelaide training session in searing heat. Picture: Campbell Brodie. Source: The Advertiser

SANDOVER Medallist Kane Mitchell joined Port Adelaide for his first training session in searing heat at Grange after being taken at No.5 in the rookie draft and could not keep a smile of his face.

He had packed his bags and made a dash to the airport after learning his fate on Tuesday and Mitchell, who was in Claremont's WAFL premiership team last season, spoke ahead the Power's training session with a sense of conviction better times were ahead for Port Adelaide.

"Mate, it's huge," he said. "We've got a pretty good list and got some really good recruits.

"It's exciting.

"I was lucky enough to get my name called out, a fair few phone calls (followed), then jumped on a flight at 5pm Perth time and wouldn't have it any other way.

"I just want to be here and start training.

"You've got to make your own luck in football and hopefully I've done so.

"But only time will tell.

"(But) Port's got a great history. They've won an AFL premiership and I'm sure we're gunning for that this year. Success is what you want in football clubs and hopefully we can breed it.

"I think we've got an exciting young list and if we can embrace that energy and pull in the same direction I'm sure we can win more games than we lose.

"It (being successful) is a mutual respect between the playing group, it's caring; you care for your teammates and you want to do everything in your power to be successful with them," he said.

"You have to believe you can win - that's universal in life.

"If you don't believe in yourself in business then you're not going to succeed."

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Werribee stint pays off for Kyle

New Adelaide Crows rookie Kyle Hartigan at West Lakes. Picture: Calum Robertson. Source: The Advertiser

NEW Crows rookie Kyle Hartigan credits a move to mature-age football factory Werribee as the catalyst for his football revival.

Hartigan lived every young footballer's nightmare in 2009 when he went from top prospect to draft-day bust in less than 12 months.

But a bold decision to join Werribee in the VFL - the same club that helped spark the careers of Michael Barlow and James Podsiadly - has finally paid dividends.

"It's been a good club to be at where mature-age blokes are being picked up from," Hartigan said.

"I just had to wait for my chance and I was lucky enough that it popped up with the Crows."

Hartigan's move to Werribee caused a minor fracas in Melbourne at the end of the 2009 season.

He was zoned to Williamstown, but didn't fancy the idea of spending a season stuck in that club's reserves because of all the Western Bulldogs leftovers that needed a game. So he pushed hard to join Werribee and, after a brief challenge, Williamstown settled for a $5000 transfer fee.

The move didn't pay off immediately - Hartigan was overlooked in two more drafts before the Crows came calling on Tuesday.

He was forced to consider another career and has spent the past three years working as an electrical apprentice - a situation that has given him new perspective.

"Everything I did as a top ager I narrowed toward getting drafted and I got a bit caught up in it," Hartigan says.

"Working gave me a different outlook on life. If it (getting drafted) didn't happen I still had other things."

But getting drafted was still the 21-year-old's priority and he improved enough under former Western Bulldogs midfielder Scott West this year to convince the Crows of his worth.

"He's just been really consistent," West said.

"His main strength is his competitiveness, and he's got really good fitness and agility."

Hartigan isn't the only Werribee player making the move to SA this year. Tiger team-mates Travis Tuck and Brad Mangan have signed with SANFL club West Adelaide, so there will be a couple of familiar faces.

"I only found out at training on Monday night that Brad was gone," Hartigan says.

"He let me know and said if I need someone to live with, he'll have a house for me."

Hartigan is likely to begin the season at South Adelaide in the local league.

Sturt has decided to use the No. 1 selection in the SANFL mini-draft on Crows ruckman Angus Graham, leaving Hartigan for the Panthers at pick two.

"We'll see what happens ... If I end up there I'll be pretty happy," he said.

"I've got a long way to go. I've never been in the AFL system. I can only put my head down and train as hard as I can.

"I've got blokes ahead of me at the moment so I've just got to learn from those guys and do my best. If an opportunity arises hopefully I'm in good enough form and I've done everything I can to get the spot."

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Poulos to put stamp on Crows

Adelaide Crows in pre-season training, from left, Nathan Van Berlo, Rory Sloane and Patrick Dangerfield. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: The Advertiser

ADELAIDE will ramp up its emphasis on strength and power over summer under new fitness coach Nick Poulos as the club seeks to keep up with the evolution of the game.

Poulos, who joined the club under long-serving fitness man Stephen Schwerdt, has identified Chris Judd and Gary Ablett as the blueprint players of the competition because of their body types - their enormous talent notwithstanding - and Adelaide will look at further developing its players' lower body strength to help them excel in the congestion around the ball.

With Schwerdt having joined Gold Coast, it is now Poulos's turn to make an imprint onsummer training, although he said he had been left an outstanding framework by Schwerdt.

It is the shared vision of Poulos and senior coach Brenton Sanderson - who still outlifts several of the players in the gym - that the player who can run all day will never reach his full potential if he doesn't also have a bit of beef and grunt.

One of the Crows who is close to the ideal body type for the modern footballer is Patrick Dangerfield - quick, enduring and explosive.

The challenge for Poulos is to come up with a balanced program for all his players: David Mackay, a quick half back flanker or wingman, needs to keep weight on during the year; others, such as Jason Porplyzia, need to ward off persistent injuries.

Danger is a bit of a freak, actually: one of the best athletes I've worked with

"We've had this conversation with the coaches and there's still a lot of congestion around the ball," Poulos said.

"But you still have to spread (take off from the contest) very, very quickly so you need a large aerobic capacity.

"That's still your bread and butter and that's a big part of the program.

"But my gut feel is that you're still going to have to break out of a tackle, get out of that density around the ball.

"So you need to be strong and explosive but be able to run all day, and repeatedly.

"I think the trend is that you have to be able to work at high intensity - run all day, but intensity is going to be at the top of the ladder.

"They have to be extremely fit aerobically but breaking a tackle, absorbing physical contact, it's what makes the game great and such a challenge.

"Danger, Judd, Ablett - can run all day but still strong. Judd, definitively, as a blueprint.

"Danger is a bit of a freak, actually: one of the best athletes I've worked with.

"But also have to look at guys like Dave Mackay, who's super fit and ran a PB (personal best) the other day.

"He's a classic example of someone who's put on more lean muscle, got a lot stronger and is running better because he's more efficient."

It's a balancing act for clubs as to how to best prepare their players at this time of year. On one hand they need them to be stronger, on the other, fitness coaches have to worry about how much weight players carry around on the ground.

Beach weights - impressive big muscles built up on low repetitions in the gym - can make players look like Tarzan but be less effective than Jane. They still have to run.

"The focus has to be on the lower body," Poulos said.

"They have to be strong through the legs, glutes and the aim is to make them more efficient runners.

"You want them to be stronger but more efficient, so that as the game goes on, they're essentially using less energy.

"But at the same time have to be explosive and fast and there's still the upper body."

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Open up on AFL drug use: Crosisca

Former Collingwood footballer Gavin Crosisca is urging the AFL to change its policy on drug use. Picture: Ian Currie. Source: Herald Sun

REFORMED drug addict Gavin Crosisca has urged the AFL to revamp its illicit drugs policy, warning players are no longer afraid of the penalties.

Crosisca is determined to help the fight against drugs.

The former Collingwood player, who has been clean since May 2011, recently confessed he had spent 25 years as a player and coach addicted to amphetamines, cannabis and alcohol.

Crosisca, 44, yesterday volunteered to be involved in the AFL's drugs symposium next month, hopeful the league would assemble a panel of drug and alcohol experts and throw the forum open to the public.

The 1990 premiership player said if the AFL stuck with a three-strikes drugs policy, there must be greater disincentives for first and second strikes and fewer loopholes.

Crosisca, an assistant coach at Carlton as recently as 2008, is concerned that players can dodge strikes by repeatedly self-reporting drug use, and avoid tests while receiving counselling for a second strike.

My addiction was hidden ... if someone had confronted me it would have brought the issue to attention more quickly

"The AFL have been doing the best they can, but this is a great opportunity to bring this into the public forum, and do more," he told the Herald Sun.

"I have had a good look at the AFL's illicit drugs policy and it's about five years old and there is a real opportunity for them to revamp that.

"My addiction was hidden. Looking back, if someone had confronted me it would have brought the issue to attention more quickly. After your first strike someone needs to be told, not just AFL club medicos and the club doctor.

"Kids need help straight away, even if it's a one-off.

"The reason why players aren't afraid of it is there are no consequences.

"They aren't strong enough for them to be fearful of it.

"For a second strike you get a $5000 fine and a suspended six-match sentence and your club chief executive finds out.

"But without your coach knowing, or at least your welfare officer or chaplin, we are just hoping."

Players cannot play while receiving counselling after a second strike, but Crosisca said only a freak occurrence, such as Hawthorn's Travis Tuck being caught by police with drugs, would lead to three strikes.

Crosisca, who regularly attends Narcotics Anonymous meetings, has had extensive discussions with people in the drug and alcohol fields about the AFL's issues.

"I would be the first to put my hand up and would love to be involved in some way in the (symposium)," he said.

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Drug test wake-up call for Pies

Collingwood onballer Dayne Beams - one of the players woken by an early morning drug test in Utah. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: The Advertiser

COLLINGWOOD'S overseas pre-season camp has been interrupted by an early morning drugs test.

The Pies were woken at 6.30am yesterday in Utah's Park City for surprise blood and urine testing.

A group of players, including Harry O'Brien, Dane Swan, Scott Pendlebury, Dayne Beams and Darren Jolly, were all made to undergo tests in the team hotel before sunrise.

The rude awakening - ironically on a designated "sleep-in" day - caused a flurry of Twitter activity.

O'Brien tweeted: "Nice 6.30am wake up call from the drug testers. @swandane noted: "They aren't the most popular people right now."

Vice-captain Pendlebury said: "630 blood test and drug test isn't ideal on the day u get a sleep in. #bigfan".

It caused coach Nathan Buckley to chime in with: "That's life as a professional H #smallpricetopay".

Collingwood players were tested on at least one earlier trip to Arizona and drug testers showing up at clubs' pre-season camps isn't unusual.

The tests come ahead of an AFL-agreed drugs symposium after calls for action by Collingwood chief executive Gary Pert.

Pert last month raised serious concerns about a growing illegal drug culture in football.

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We want to get better: McVeigh

Sydney Swans co-captain Jarrad McVeigh faces the media with new signing Kurt Tippett. Picture: Phil Hillyard. Source: The Daily Telegraph

SYDNEY co-captain Jarrad McVeigh was quick to make a fuss over Kurt Tippett as the club assessed the signing of the former Crow ahead of his first training session with his new club yesterday.

When addressing the signing, the Swan's key message was improvement.

"We want to improve as a group," McVeigh said.

"Just because we won the premiership doesn't mean we don't want to get better.

"We see Kurt as a long-term player and we're rapt to have him at the club.

"After a hectic couple of months, we can get out there today and get back to what back to what he knows best and that's playing footy.

"It's an exciting time for the club. We do want to improve as a group and to get a player of Kurt's calibre - we need to boost our big guys department, in the forward line and ruck.

"We see Kurt as a one of those players and a long-term player for us.

"We know the way he plays, we know he trains hard and works hard and we expect that from him.

"He'll earn the players' trust the way he goes about it over the next few months and hopefully when he can get out on the park he'll have the players' trust and we can get on with it."

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Kurt must earn Swans' respect

Kurt Tippett prepares for his first training sessions with the Sydney Swans. Picture: Matt King. Source: Getty Images

KURT Tippett can't relax just yet.

After an incredibly turbulent off-season, the 25-year-old power forward must now overcome another major hurdle before he can settle into his new Sydney home - earning the respect and trust of the most fiercely loyal playing group in the AFL.

Tippett officially became a Swan yesterday after wearing Swans colours and training with teammates for the first time. But he is not one of the boys, yet.

Swans co-captain Jarrad McVeigh said yesterday Tippett still has to prove himself.

"We've got a set of behaviours that we like to live by and we'll go through all that kind of stuff over the next few months," McVeigh said.

"All the boys that come through, you want to earn the respect of your peers and that's what you want out of footy.

"You do that by training hard, doing all the right things and then when game day comes you look after your mate and if Kurt can do that and the other boys can do that they'll get a game."

(Kurt will) earn the players' trust the way he goes about it the next few months

He has not got off to a great start, suspended for the Swans' first 11 matches of the AFL season, including all pre-season matches which will only see him available to debut for the club in round 13 against Port Adelaide on June 22.

Tippett was banned from playing any form of football by the AFL for his involvement in salary cap breaches and draft tampering with former club Adelaide.

However, McVeigh said the club has no trepidation about Tippett's character.

"We see Kurt as a long-term player for us," he said.

"We know the way he plays. We know he trains hard and works hard. We expect that from him. He'll earn the players' trust the way he goes about it the next few months.

"Hopefully, in round 12 or whatever it is that he can get out on the park, he'll have the players trust and we can get on with our business."

Tippett yesterday admitted it has been a difficult few months for him since leaving Adelaide in a messy exit, but vowed to earn the trust of his teammates through determination on the training pitch.

"It's been a long off-season with a few little challenges," he said.

"It's fantastic to be here and meet the players and coaches. I'm looking forward to playing football.

"There was a little bit of time where I guess my future was a little bit unclear, but it's fantastic to be here. I look forward to playing football, settling in, training hard, preparing myself well and earning the guys trust over summer.

"It's been a challenge for myself and my family, but I'm happy to put all that behind me now and I'm really excited to be here in Sydney.

"I've got to come in with a good attitude towards getting better and making sure I'm at my best when I can play."

Tippett has signed only a two-year deal with the club after nominating terms for a two-season deal in the pre-season draft for fear of being plucked by a team he did not want to go to.

However, the Swans will commence talks with Tippett's manager Peter Blucher as early as next month to discuss extending his deal to four years - as the club originally hoped to do.

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Jetta's journey proof of value

Sydney Swans star Lewis Jetta celebrates after the siren in the 2012 AFL grand final. Picture: Phil Hillyard. Source: Herald Sun

INDIGENOUS educator Gerard Neesham says AFL clubs should keep faith with talented Aboriginals, pointing to Sydney star Lewis Jetta as the poster boy for second chances.

The issue of indigenous recruitment has flared again, with a handful of talented players overlooked in recent drafts because of perceived problems with their character.

The Herald Sun revealed yesterday Essendon could not consider Perth teenager Dayle Garlett, because he went on a 4am bender in Perth only three days before the pre-season draft.

Garlett will return to play at WAFL club Swan Districts. That club's football manager, Phil Smart, criticised AFL clubs for being hypocritical.

He attacked AFL multicultural manager Jason Mifsud, saying his club had not received a phone call from the league official for two years, despite Garlett's problems.

Neesham, whose Clontarf Academies have helped 3000 indigenous boys across 54 schools, said AFL clubs should not back off.

"The classic is Lewis Jetta," Neesham said.

"We picked him up and put him in our program when he was turning 16 and he finished year 12 at 19.

"Lewis wasn't even at school . . . he was disconnected from mainstream society and then he came into our program and became a fantastic story."

Smart said Mifsud needed to spend more time at grass-roots level.

"We have had a couple of issues with a couple of boys who were in the AIS and we have had no contact from Mifsud," he said.

"We have had contact from (game development manager) Kevin Sheehan, who has been very helpful, but Mifsud is in charge of indigenous development and we have not had one phone call from him."

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Top executive subs himself off

Outgoing AFL operations manager Adrian Anderson heeded the advice of his father Ken: "Keep your eye on the ball and get on with it." Picture: Mike Keating Source: Herald Sun

WHEN Andrew Demetriou poached a young lawyer from Corrs Chambers Westgarth nine years ago to head the AFL's football operations department, he warned him it could be "a very unpopular role".

Demetriou knew how thankless the job could be, having just had three years in the position. Three months into Adrian Anderson's tenure, Demetriou called the new man into his office and told him he had "vastly exceeded expectations " as far as unpopularity went.

Anderson had been headhunted for his expertise and integrity, but initially was attacked by many football traditionalists for not having a strong football pedigree, in the way former players Demetriou and Ian Collins had before him.

After six months in the job, Anderson was slammed by then Collingwood coach Mick Malthouse who, in defending his right to criticise umpires and the tribunal, suggested Anderson did not understand the pressures on coaches and players, and should spend time on the Magpies' bench.

Instead Anderson heeded the advice of another mentor, his father Ken: "Keep your eye on the ball and get on with it."

Over nine seasons Anderson did just that, helping overhaul the tribunal and introduce the league's drugs policy and collective bargaining and free agency agreements.

The critics, including many among the football public, remained.

Nine years of controversy

But Anderson's diligence and character began to win him wider respect.

At yesterday's media conference to announce his departure from the AFL, 20 to 30 of the league's senior staff were in the room.

Afterwards, Richmond great Kevin Bartlett, who worked with Anderson on the laws of the game committee, described him as an "outstanding administrator who always had player welfare at the top of his list".

Anderson had spent the best part of a decade fronting up when the AFL had unpopular news, deflecting and spinning with the best of them. So it came as no surprise he had little trouble obliquely manoeuvring through the circumstances of his own departure. At 40 it was "time for a new challenge" and "something different".

Twice during the 30-minute media conference Anderson seemed to falter.

First, in answer to rumours he might be North Melbourne's new chief executive. "I haven't had any discussions with, ah, North and, um, yeah. so I ... um, haven't made decisions about, at this point, what I'm going to do next," he said.

It is understood, however, that the ill-feeling from the Roos over Anderson's handling of the Lachy Hansen concussion investigation makes that scenario highly unlikely.

Secondly, Anderson seemed to choose his words carefully when asked whether he was disappointed the AFL Commission had rejected some rule change recommendations, notably for two substitutes on the interchange bench.

There was a suggestion Anderson had felt jilted when Demetriou anointed Gil McLachlan as his successor this year, although in reality that happened in 2006, when then No.2 Ben Buckley moved to Football Federation Australia.

Asked about reports of a fractured relationship with Anderson, Demetriou yesterday dismissed them as "complete garbage". But it is known the AFL is restructuring its football department and intended to diminish Anderson's influence.

Anderson told Demetriou on Tuesday of his decision to leave, but he conceded yesterday he had known for some weeks it was time to go.

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