Little Winners

Yesterday, I witnessed greatness. I shouted and screamed and celebrated with a team I knew very little about. I sported colours not of my own team. I basked in the glory of Grand Final victory.

That's right, the Oak Park Under 12s produced a stunning 63 to 15 defeat of Strathmore FC.

So you're probably wondering why I drove all the way to Keilor to be a part of this epic win?
And no, it wasn't because I spent the previous night sitting alone in the freezing cold at the MCG, watching my beloved Magpies being ripped apart by the Lions. I was sporting the blue & white because my baby brother plays for the mighty Oakers. "Spaz" as he is lovingly nicknamed by his team (due to the fact our surname is Santuccione, not because he is actually a spaz) is famous for his goal kicking abilities, and had begged me to come along and see his team play. So, not wanting to win the award for the world's worst sister, and having missed the entire season due to the fact we simply live far apart, I couldn't let the little man down.

Spazzaccione & I - Pre-game

From the moment I arrived at Keilor Park Reserve, I was immediately as excited as I was before the first bounce at a Pies game. I made my way over to Mum, who was anxiously sitting on the sidelines. Hoardes of families, kids, parents and some extremely pushy parents, surrounded us. A little beanie-clad girl no older than two sat to our left, and her enthusiasm for the game made me wonder if I had been the same at her age. Then she booed the umpire for making a bad call. Definitely.

The Oakers started strong. Big Will down in the goal square absolutely dominated.
Mark and goal. Mark and goal. Mark and goal. Mark and goal. For an 11-year-old, I couldn't believe his strength and ability to gain control of the ball, not to mention his "straight through the sticks" kicking style. We needed him at the Pies!

The ambush continued well into the second quarter, with Strathmore giving it their best crack but sadly couldn't stop the Oak Park juggernaut. As I sat there watching mothers cheer, fathers give coaching orders and kids throw tantrums because they weren't allowed to have a hot dog, I couldn't help but imagine what kind of "Footy Mum" I would make.
Would I be pushy? Would I be too shy to say anything? Or would I be one of those mums who picks the lamest possible nickname for my kid and yell it across the field at my little fuzzy wuzzy baby bear? It made me think deeper into just how important this magical game of Aussie Rules can be to a family and the effects playing the game can have on kids of such a young age.

I joined in on the 3/4 time huddle, and listened intently as the Coach encouraged the boys and commended their individual efforts. Spaz got orders to get out there and boot some goals, with which he promised his team mates he would deliver. 

By the time the fourth quarter had started, it was apparent that Oak Park had the game all stitched up. Spaz had delivered on his promise and booted two goals, and the boys didn't even look tired. What shocked me the most however, was the fact that as a young Strathmorian slotted a much needed goal, several of the Oakers applauded the boy's efforts. There was no booing. No nasty exchanges. No nudges or shoves. It was a civil, respectful game. The players of opposition teams were encouraging each other, despite the fact this was the game that needed to be won. It was adorable and admirable all in one.

The final siren rang out and the field erupted. We all ran onto the ground to celebrate.
The Oakers jumped and ran and hugged and screamed. Immediately, the winning Captain shouted "three cheers for Strathmore!" and I think my heart melted in an instant.  The boys lined up to shake the hands and congratulate their gutted opponents, and again I was drawn back to the thoughts of how noble and respectful these two teams had been of each other. It was as if it didn't matter that one team had dominated and the other had lucked out, they were all comrades and they had just survived a war together. If only all of our modern day AFL players had the same stance when it came to playing the game. When did it stop being fun and start being war?

Oak Park Under 12s PREMIERS 2014 - Congratulations kids!!!

Back at the Club rooms, the party continued well into the afternoon. The Oakers were hyped up on Pizza, Fish n Chips, Fizzy drinks and winning. It was the most fun I could have had with a bunch of 11 and 12 year olds, not to mention the fact they weren't shy in inducting me into their boys club! I believe one of the boys was hoping I would be attending the same High School as he would next year. He looked a little deflated when I mentioned I'd finished High School ten years ago! The camaraderie of these boys and the acceptance of each other no matter what size, shape or ability they had was simply beautiful, and completely uncommon in today's age. It really demonstrates how a Club and serious sporting types can be embraced, nurtured and shaped into respectful characters both on and off the field. It made me so proud to know my own brother was a part of this. 

Chris & Aidan - "brothers" / winners

And so, I congratulate the Oak Park Under 12s and the Strathmore Under 12s for their fantastic Football efforts on Sunday. Being Premiers and participating at a Grand Final is something not everyone will experience and I'm sure the experience will live with them forever. I must also apologise for my lack of flogging last week - I have been extremely unwell and could only get myself back on the web today.

To catch up, my pick for Flog Of The Week for the previous week is Carlton's Mitch (Floginson) Robinson, for lying to his own club about being involved in a brawl outside a bar and persisting with his lie until he had been caught out. When will players learn that everything they do is in the spotlight?!? You're never alone! I also induct him as Flog Of The Week due to the fact this isn't the first time he has told a story that wasn't true... is it Mitch???? This was enough of a Flog act to translate into this week, and therefore I will be back with the F.O.T.W. next week.
 

A very deserving Flog Of The Week(s) - Carlton's Mitch Robinson

Until next time,

-Lady K- 

    x0x
 

Cheap Shot

I'll admit, there are times when I would like to leap over the fence at the Football and introduce my palm to someone's face. There are other times I'd like to turn around and do the same to an opposition's fan. But I can't. And I won't...for two simple reasons;
1) I'm a total wuss and
2) Violence has no place in Football (or pretty much anywhere for that matter).

But history dictates otherwise in the world of AFL. And more recently, from within the Richmond Football Club. This weekend's match against Greater Western Sydney will more than likely result in another Tigers man on the sidelines for a few weeks, after an extremely cheap shot was taken by Richmond midfielder Reece Conca against GWS Giant Devon Smith. 

Now that he has some time on his hands, perhaps Tyrone Vickery can get a damn hair cut!

This pathetic and foolish act ices the cake on an embarrassing week for the Tigers, with forward Tyrone Vickery sidelined for four weeks for an unnecessary strike on West Coast great Dean Cox a week before. Watching the footage of each attack indicates that there may be an epic brain fade happening down in the Tiger den, with players obviously not remembering that whatever they do is documented on just about every media platform one can get their hands on. Not to mention the fact that if their own stupidity prevails, they're more than likely to receive a hefty fine or even a few weeks on the bench, as well as put a target on their back. It is embarrassing to a Club, to its dedicated fans and to the code itself when players indulge in callous acts that have little to do with the game itself.

I have watched the footage of Conca's attack on Smith several times now, and I can't count the amount of times I said "who does that?". For those of you who have not seen the incident, Conca was coming off the ground to the bench after a brief scuffle with Smith, which saw Conca's jumper tangled over his head. There was not much in it. A standard wrestling match between players who had perhaps mouthed off at one another during play. Nothing to get your shorts in a strop over. Surrounded by two umpires and with the cameras firmly fixated on him, Conca ran up behind an unaware Smith, and struck him hard across the back of the head. Smith fell to his knees as Conca threw his arms to his sides as if to say "what did I do?". Commentators of the game were rife with confusion and astonishment at Conca's cheap shot, immediately saying he will be reported for his stupidity. When Reece was asked if he would like to issue an apology to Smith, he reluctantly offered up a very heartless "sorry mate... there you go".
Really? That's it? I'd say it was a dog act, but dogs are loyal. 

Reece Conca takes a very cheap shot on GWS' Devon Smith on Saturday

So what does it say about a Footy player? Clearly they are aware of the ramifications that come with committing such an act, and clearly they are aware that they are being watched by thousands of people across the globe. We have seen so many incidents over time in our great game that have sometimes even resulted in a change of the rules. The game seems as though it isn't as "tough" as it used to be. There's not much of a chance we will see an all-in brawl like the days of old, 'the bump' is no longer just a dance from the 70's and it comes with consequences, and if you make any contact above the chest, well... you're almost certain to give away a free kick.

It really makes you wonder whether or not some of these players truly understand that playing Football is a privilege, not a right. Whether or not they grasp the concept of fair play and if they don't, then why not? What does it say about the education of players from a fair and just level, and not a 'play to win, do whatever it takes' kind of level? When a player from a team you love makes a mistake but is able to take responsibility or you can clearly see it was an error in judgement, it's okay - we can usually deal with this and all is forgotten. But when a player engages in an act that makes you embarrassed or disappoints you, anyone and everyone will chime in and usually you end up the target for an unwarranted Facebook attack or rant at their expense. I know I give it to a lot of my supporter friends when their players do idiotic things on the field, but I also am more than happy to have a rant about my own team, should they do something to embarrass me as a supporter (and trust me, there has been plenty).

Chris Judd and his chicken wing, Big Bad Barry Hall and his fist of fury, Hayden Ballantyne and his little man complex, Jarryd Brennan's headbutting antics and Mitch Robinson's well.. Mitch Floginson in general. And let's of course not forget the nine match ban on former St. Kilda player Steven Baker for repeated offences against Geelong's Steve Johnson (Baker was later banned from playing Football for life after just one match for Mornington Peninsula after his prominent AFL career had ended) are just a few of the incidents that have seen the game brought into disrepute for unnecessary and sometimes extremely dangerous conduct on the field. These are the types of incidents that are ruining our game. Not only for other players and Clubs, but for the fans too. And I think this is something that needs a little more attention across the board, to ensure that these types of behaviours don't continue on the field. Should we impose harsher penalties on players for behind-play misconduct? Are we too harsh as it is? Or should we just continue to allow players to do whatever it is they feel they have to to win the ball or the game? Is this really the type of price we want to pay for a win? Where's the merit and pride in that? I know these blokes have talent and skill, so why are so many of them starting to throw this by the wayside?
I don't want to pay to see men embarrassing everyone by trying to rip each other to shreds. If I wanted to see that, I'd watch NRL. 

It will be a sad, sad day in AFL history when our game becomes so void of talented play and so full of gutless wonders. 

And so I present to you this week's FLOG OF THE WEEK:

   

    RICHMOND'S REECE CONCA

This week's FLOG OF THE WEEK has plenty to scratch his noodle about

Coming up on The Flog, I'll get to chatting with Collingwood's Travis Cloke on dealing with the haters, who's the most annoying down at Magpie land and what makes him tick.... 

Flog on, my friends...

- Lady K x0x

Passion of the Krys T...

If I had a dollar for every time I mentioned the word "Collingwood", I'd be a billionaire. It's like word vomit for me. There aren't many people who understand how a 28-year-old female can be so obsessed with a Football Club - but everyone who knows me, knows my passionate love for the mighty "Black & White". But for those of you who don't know me, here's a deeper insight into the passion of the Krys T .... Krystal T. That's me....
 

The day after winning the 2010 Grand Final
Post-match celebrations at Gosch's Paddock

Signed Premiership Guernsey
Best day of my life - 2010

There have only been a few things in my life that have meant so much to me, that are the blood that runs through my veins, but the Collingwood Football Club (or"the  

Collywobbles" as so many of my friends and foes say) became a part of me from a very, very young age. In all honesty, it has probably been the healthiest relationship I have ever been in. Sure, we have had our fair share of ups and downs in the last 28 years, but I have stuck to my gut instinct, my heart and my head (and the excessive pressure from my father) and together, we have prevailed. Just call me "Miss Magpie". 

I can still recall the first game I have a memory of. I was about three years old, and it was the Mighty Pies versus the Saint Kilda Saints at one of my favourite places on Earth - the MCG. My dad, my uncle (sadly, a Saints supporter) and myself were there, and I can even remember the most random of details such as my uncle's red parka and his yellow backpack with a big rainbow on it. I remember sitting in his lap, cheering for the Pies at my dad's cues. I had no idea at the time what I was looking at of course, but that day obviously ignited some sort of spark inside me that would change me forever.

Luke Ball & I

I have such wonderful fond memories of the games (and some I have repressed for life) and of times spent with my dad. Growing up, dad had always been required to travel extensively for work, but our special outings to the games always made up for lost time. We had the same routine every game. Driving in dad's car, pre-game talkback going on and dad offering his own commentary every so often to those on air. I'd plug my discman into my ears - yes, a discman, not an iPod.. no such thing those days! - for the ride and for the long trek to the 'G (dad liked to park as far away as he possibly could). In those days, we wouldn't sit too close to the action, usually surrounded by our fellow MCC members who weren't all that animated during play. But as I got older, I discovered I liked to sit closer to the action, so around the age of 13 dad and I started parting ways outside gate two and would reunite after the game.

Ben Johnson & I
My favourite player for 12 years

At half time I would often get a phone call from him, checking up on me and ensuring I hadn't jumped the fence and run onto the field. The call always began the same way "I see you" he would say, and sure enough I'd turn around and there he would be, up on level 2, waving at me as if we hadn't seen each other in years. 

We'd have a quick review of the match and finish with our stock standard sign-off of "Go Pies!". Sometimes, if the Pies were copping a flogging, he would make me leave the game early. I hated that. It made me feel as if I was betraying my boys by surrendering my support. Dad obviously couldn't                                                                  cope as well with losses as I could at that stage.

Angelica & I - Perth 2012
I love travelling for all interstate games

Preliminary final victory over Geelong
ESPN footage
2010

When I reached 14 years old, I was allowed to bring friends to the games. Hardly any of the girls I was friends with at the time had any interest in footy, but on the odd occasion I could convince one to come along. Now that I think about it, I really needed new friends back then. I ended up meeting a lot of people at the games who I still sit with to this day,  so I gave up bringing people who didn't care and began meeting my new "crew" every week in our standard front row centre spot. This spot is now famous because of us. 

Caught on camera in the audience at The Footy Show

One game set it off and now we are all practically famous. I'm known as the "crazy Collingwood chick" for always getting my face on TV during the games. People will constantly text or call with their commentary as to how many times I've been on their screens. Some of my friends even play drinking games on Anzac Day to the sight of this Miss Magpie's face.  By the time I was 22, I started working in the Sports industry, allowing me to meet a lot of players, media and the corporate AFL crowd.  

Anthony Rocca & I
On field at Etihad 2008

I've since been lucky enough to have formed some great relationships with many amazing players and media icons, who have at one point or another told me "you get more air time than we do!". An absolute crock of shit in my eyes, of course, however I will never forget the day Anthony Rocca pulled me aside in the change rooms at the 'G and said "every time I turn on my bloody TV, Krystal, there you are!". Being such a huge Footy fan and an even bigger Pies fan (I used to crush on Saverio Rocca when I was about 8), that was a huge moment for me. I actually felt famous. 

Embarrassed, but famous. A pretty cool feeling for a 22-year-old nobody. People I have never even met started approaching me at pubs or sending me Facebook messages, all with the same "you go for Collingwood, don't you?" tagline. It got a little creepy at one stage!

Brodie Grundy & I
Eminem Concert  2014

It was then that I realised that no matter how stupid I  may look screaming my lungs out with a possible

Jamie Elliot & I
Post-match 2013

awkward orgasm-type face on National TV, that this place, this sport, this passion for the Club was the one place where I felt 100% comfortable being myself. It is the one place I can go and show every ounce of emotion and not care who thinks what of me. I can love what I love, without hesitation. The more games I started attending, the more my face became known. People overseas would e-mail my dad and say "just seen your daughter on the TV". Dad loved telling me stories of how many of his colleagues would see me on television and get in contact with him. 

Alan Didak's last game

Paul Licuria & I - 2010
Legends Game Afterparty

Dane Swan
Pre-extreme tattoo coverage

My favourite incident he recalled to me happened at a game in 2011. He was in his usual spot on level two. Me - stock standard position on ground level. I was chatting to my friend who happened to be a boundary reporter for the radio. Dad happened to be listening to the same station when Gary Lyon and James Brayshaw were said to remark that their boundary reporter had missed his live cross cue, as he was distracted by a woman in a pink skirt. I was wearing a pink skirt. Dad called me as the story unfolded, and as I watched my friend fumble for words to say to his live audience, I could not contain my laughter. My friend later told me all the boys in the commentary box  had suggested I become the new reporter instead. I don't know who went more red, me or him. It was such a hilarious and enlightening moment for me, considering I had very little self-esteem at the time. 

Mum & I
Post-Grand Final win 2010
In the arena with Lionel Richie & the team

Nowadays, through my contacts and networking, I can access most areas at the MCG and Etihad. I consider myself extremely lucky that my passion met my fantasies and I can overindulge like that in the Football world on a weekly basis. It's what I imagine heaven will be like - that's how much I love this great game. At first I think I only liked it just for the hot boys, I mean, what young girl wouldn't? But as I got older, formed relationships and even dated some of the boys, I realised that it was not about them at all. It was so much more than that. 

Post-Grand Final win 2010 outside the 'G
Far too much excitement & alcohol

I love every aspect of the game itself - the skill, the thrill and the overwhelming excitement that comes with every kick of the ball. In 2013, I was fortunate enough to tick off a long-time bucket list item and discover just how exhilarating on-field atmosphere and what playing in front of a crowd at the 'G feels like. I was selected to play in the Cadbury 9's at half time between Collingwood and Adelaide. I kicked one goal. It was the best 30 minutes of my Football life. 

Post match celebrations - June 15th, 2013
Collingwood vs. Adelaide
Cadbury 9s player

Buckley

Bobby-Rose

Jack
8-6-1998 - 17-5-2011

My niece, Sienna
Grand Final Day 2010

This is what I live for. Those moments when your heart feels as if it's going to beat right out of your chest as someone lines up for goal, the times when you feel so broken because your team has crumbled at the feet of another, the joy that swallows every part of you as you celebrate a gutsy win... that moment when you realise you have just spent 3 and a half hours watching a pack of men go to war and nothing in the world could make you happier. I even named my dogs after players - Bobby-Rose & Buckley... Or that moment you have just walked out of the tattoo parlour freshly inked with your team's name, to be forever worn with pride. Sorry dad, I didn't want you to find out this way! The positive memories of attending the games as a child with my dad and the thought that one day I can share the same joy with children of my own. 

 The infamous tattoo
              Post-game celebration, Sydney 2011

Sure, time may pass, memories may fade, but the passion I have for the Magpies grows stronger every year. I know that no matter what happens in my life, the Club will always be there... ain't nobody can take that away from me. 

And that's as Black & White as it's gonna get for me.

I would like to thank my dad, Chris, for introducing me to the Collingwood Football Club - you only have yourself to blame! And for always taking me to the games as a kid. I am forever indebted to you for this. xxx

Flog on,

Lady K -x0x- 

Time On...

It is a widely spread thought that "absence makes the heart grow fonder". Well, if that's the case, then I'd say a 3 and a half year absence from The Flog would ensure an overly-affectionate array of followers at my feet. However, given that I wasn't marketing The Flog back in the day, I'm not expecting anything much just yet. But I will say, welcome back.

It's been a long and interesting journey for me over these past few years - some of my experiences good, some great, and others just plain ugly. 2011 also saw a devastating loss in the AFL Grand Final, though some will argue it was the best day of their life. Those people don't know anything, obviously. First and foremost however, I must begin with a retraction.

For those of you unfamiliar with this, a retraction is "a public statement made about an earlier statement that withdraws, cancels, refutes, diametrically reverses the original statement or ceases and desists from publishing the original statement. The retraction may be initiated by the editors of a journal, or by the author(s) of the papers (or their institution). Retractions may or may not be accompanied by the author's further explanation as to how the original statement came to be made and/or what subsequent events, discoveries, or experiences led to the subsequent retraction" - thank you, Wikipedia.

I began The Flog on the promise of a 'Flog Of The Week'. This is still very much something I will continue with, however, as someone a bit older, wiser and more experienced nowadays, I will perhaps take a little more care in my reasons for choice of Flog. I must stress that everything posted on my blog is entirely my of my own opinion. It is purely for my passion of the industry, and for entertainment purposes only. It must be taken lightly.
My reason for a retraction however, comes after I took up a position as Ricky Nixon's EA & Communications Advisor in 2012. Yes, you read that correctly - I was the absolute Nixhead's assistant.

I had formed an acquaintance with the man known now as "The Chicken Train" back in 2008 through my previous work in the sports industry, however it wasn't until 2012 that Chicken and I became friends. Coming off several humiliating personal and public episodes, Chicken was ready to relaunch himself after his rehabilitation process, and he wanted my help to do so. As I had no other exciting job prospects on the go, I met with Chicken to discuss what he had planned in order to turn his life around. He had a series of live comedy shows ready to launch, and a few other projects in the pipelines, but needed to know how to market himself and his shows accordingly. This is where I was to come in. If I am speaking honestly, at first I felt a little hesitant to accept his offer, because the selfish side of me knew what could happen to my reputation if I did. However I am rarely one to be selfish and decided it was just as big a risk for him to hire me as it was for me to work for him. Not to mention the fact I knew it would be an exciting challenge and an experience that I could take with me forever. I mean come on, who wouldn't want to manage a train wreck???

The most important thing for me was to know all the facts. And I mean all the facts. I told Chicken from the outset that he needed to be 100% honest with me about his past and the allegations made against him, or else I would not be able to work for him. And despite my previous hangups about Chicken, I believed his honest and sometimes hilarious explanations. And so, with my trust instilled in Chicken, I accepted the job. And I didn't care what anyone was going to say. And boy, did I hear some interesting rumours about myself during this time!

Chicken and I had a successful working relationship, and Chicken's comedy shows were a sellout. So many great opportunities, contacts and stories came out of my time with the Train, and although I no longer work for him, we continue a great friendship and are extremely supportive of one another's dreams and aspirations. I am not ashamed of working for him. The only thing I am ashamed of is perhaps my previous statements in relation to the Chicken through The Flog. Although I will not disagree, at the time he did act like a bit of a flog, my uneducated and uninformed opinion was a bit too harsh on the old Chicken, and I therefore retract any statements made against him that may hurt him should he ever read The Flog - Chicken, you know I love ya!! And I know you've heard it all before. You're a great man, and have exceptional coffee throwing skills. All aboard The Chicken Train #TootToot!

   Alex Fasolo, Myself & Chicken

   Grand Final Day, 2013

I will admit that my reputation suffered several times whilst working with Chicken, but I wasn't phased - not only do these people's opinion not matter to me, but they don't know Chicken like I do. They are in the same frame of mind I was in about him back in 2011 - all because the media loves to create a circus at the expense of someone they don't really know anything about. Carowhine... err, Caroline Wilson being the worst culprit of all during my time with the Train. And she still irritates the life out of me to this day... as she does many others. 

A lot has changed in the AFL world in the last 3 and a half years. Players have been and gone, new teams have been formed and even the big boss - Demetriou - turned his back on the industry. Don't let the door hit you on the way out, Andrew...
However, the biggest and most shocking story to come out of the Clubs has been the Essendon drug scandal. Not only has this brought the game I love into disrepute, it has blown open a media frenzy, and for a long, long time, the only thing you'd read about were the dismal black and red. To read about this, hit up my next blog "Whatever We Take" by clicking here. I must also make mention that Campbell Brown was let go from the Gold Coast Suns for again conducting indecent behaviour ... I found this rather amusing .... hehehe ... 

And so, my dear friends, I present to you the inaugural winners of the Flog Of The Week Awards, consistently for an entire two seasons: 




THE ESSENDON FOOTBALL CLUB  & ANDREW DEMETRIOU.






Stay tuned & keep flogging! And may our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by the devastating disappearances and bombings of MH370, MH17 and SA006 and all those involved or on the front lines in Gaza.


Lady K x0x

Whatever We Take

For those of you that have missed out, were living under a rock, or just want a refresher on the biggest, blackest scandal of the AFL world, I've taken the liberty of dismantling the entire scandal from its beginning in 2013 until this very day.... stay tuned for updates....

On February 5th, 2013, the Essendon Football Club "self-reported" to ASADA and the AFL, asking they investigate perhaps inappropriate use of supplements throughout the 2012 season. Then coach James Hird calls a press conference and is quoted saying he takes "full responsibility for what happens in our footy department". He goes on to state that "if there have been goings on in our football department that are not right, we want to know".

On February 7th, the Australian Crime Commission holds a press conference that was named "the blackest day in Australian Sport". Here, they make their Drugs in Sport report public. The report outlines widespread usage of illicit drugs, hormones and peptides by the Essendon Football Club and highlights links to organised crime. Home Affairs and Justice Minister Jason Clare states "It's cheating but it's worse than that.  It's cheating with the help of criminals". 

By this stage, Australia, namely Victoria, is in disarray. Some supporters of the Club are quick to disband and throw out their memberships. Others stick around and insist it's all a web of lies. Football fans unite and pick their sides - the ones who believe it's true, the ones who don't believe it's true, and the ones who just want to have a reason to whinge.

As the psychotic episode continued, the headlines got bigger and Essendon's grave dug deeper. On April 10th, it is suggested to James Hird that he stand down, however he refuses. In my eyes, this was a huge mistake. If he had stepped down here, perhaps his reputation as a trusted Coach, adored past player and respected member of the AFL community would not have become so tainted.

On April 11th, the Bombers suffered another blow. Former Essendon sport scientist Stephen Dank relays to the media how he injected Hird with Hexarelin - a substance banned for players by WADA in 2004. Hird denies anything of the sort, insisting that Dank is merely trying to destroy his reputation.

April 12th comes around and the saga continues. Andrew Demetriou states in a press conference that Hird must consider stepping aside. 

For 8 whole hours on April 16th, James Hird is interviewd by investigators from the AFL and ASADA.

On May 6th, a report by former Telstra Boss Ziggy Switkowski, commissioned by Essendon, finds that the experimental nature of Essendon's sport science program was not properly documented, challenged or adequately controlled. Players are then allegedly told by ASADA investigators that no prosecutions would be made over the use of AOD-9604 as its legal status is confusing.

Essendon CEO Ian Robson resigns on May 23rd, claiming that "There is no excuse in not knowing, and as CEO, I am accountable and I accept that accountability."

Retired Bomber Mark McVeigh comes out on June 8th stating how shocked he was at his grilling from ASADA and claiming that things he heard in the interview are things he knew nothing about.

On June 24th, another bomb goes off. Much loved and respected Captain, Jobe Watson, tells Fox Footy he was injected with AOD-9604. "I signed that consent form... I believed it was legal at the time and that AOD was what I was being given". This confession saw Jobe's reputation turned upside down, and a whole new debate sparked on whether or not he was the right man to continue captaining the side. During their June 27th match against the Eagles in Perth (which Jobe led the Bombers to an incredible victory), Watson is booed heavily throughout. In late June, the Bombers are allegedly approached by AFL figures to ask what sanctions the club would be willing to accept. A loss of premiership points and sanctions for Hird are amongst the options.

July 1st sees AFL football operations Chief Mark Evans publicly lets slip that Essendon could lose premiership points as deducted by the commission.

On July 25th an article by the Herald Sun revealed a meeting held at Chairman David Evans' house on February 4th, dubbed the "night of crisis" meeting. Conflicting reports against Demetriou were made, where it was said that Evans had been tipped off by Demetriou about the ACC investigation.

Essendon suffer a loss to the Hawks on July 28th. Evans suffers a post-match physical breakdown in the rooms and subsequently resigns.

On July 31st, former Dons fitness boss Dean "The Weapon" Robinson gives an explosive television interview, claiming the Club had asked him to perform "black ops". Essendon refutes, saying his allegations are "totally without foundation". It isn't until August 2nd that the AFL confirms it has received ASADA's interim report into the use of supplements at the Club.

August 13th the headlines splashed across the Nation read "CHARGED". Hird, Assistant Coach Bomber Thompson, Club Doctor Bruce Reid and Head of Football Danny Corcoran have been charged with conduct "likely to bring the game into disrepute". The Club state they will fight all charges laid against them. In Mid-August, long before the official terms of the charges are released and before the hearing, proposed penalties are allegedly put to the Club.

By the time August 21st comes around, everyone is eager to know the fate of the depleted Dons. The charges are revealed, with new Essendon Chairman Paul Little declaring a "war" on the AFL. Andrew Demetriou opens his mouth stating "I want to state very clearly: there has been no predetermination of this matter by the AFL Commission". James Hird tries to slap the AFL back by launching Supreme Court action, claiming natural justice was denied. Court documents allege that Demetriou and his deputy (now CEO) Gillon McLachlan tipped off Essendon on February 4th's "night of crisis" that the players had taken performance enhancing drugs. The next night, the CEO's of the remaining 17 clubs meet and declare their support of the AFL.

At this point, I had face-palmed so many times, I was simply sick and tired of reading about it, hearing about it and even knowing about it. And I know many weren't far behind me. Not only did it take away the excitement of the game for all the other Clubs still involved in the competition and still vying for a place in the Finals, it generated a whole new reputation for our beloved AFL - one that was shameful, embarrassing and just plain dirty.

With deal offers being discussed, Paul Little writes an open apology letter to members and supporters on August 23rd, stating that there will be an acceptance of sanctions. By August 25th, with finals drawing closer, a meeting is held at the home of Gillon McLachlan with Hird and two other unnamed guests.

Over two long days, August 26th and 27th, the AFL Commission hearing regarding the charges takes place at AFL House. It isn't until later that we hear claims that no evidence was heard by the commission and no cases were presented. Face palm mode: extreme.FINALLY, we get an answer: The Bombers are DISQUALIFIED from the 2013 Finals and are fined two million dollars. Hird is given (and accepts) a 12-month ban and subsequently drops his Supreme Court action against the AFL. Bomber Thompson and David Corcoran are also punished, however Bruce Reid doesn't stop fighting.

Andrew Demetriou comes out with a statement I'm tipping he wished he never made on September 13th. After an article published in The Australian claims that the charges against Dr Reid would be dropped, Demetriou blasts the paper, dismissing the article as "deplorable" journalism. On September 18th, however, Demetriou ate his words. All charges against Dr. Reid are dropped and no penalties are imposed. It was at this point I abdicated my support of Demetriou as a trustworthy and reliable pillar of the AFL community. I could only see him as a filthy liar with dirty hands.

Finals fever takes over the Nation and sees the Hawks secure a gutsy Premiership title over the Sydney Swans. Momentarily, we are allowed to think about others, and not a skerrick of black and red is in sight. Just the colours of poos and wees...

It isn't until December 5th that the Dons get their name back on the front pages.
The Herald Sun reveals Hird is being paid by the Club during his 12 month ban, and of course the first to run their mouth about the statement was Andrew Demetriou on radio. "He's not allowed to be paid - I want to make that very clear ... If there is one thing I will go to my grave on, I know 100 per cent the AFL is not paying and I know that - Essendon is not paying." Hmmm... It was going to be a hard task believing him since his credibility was consistently shot down throughout the saga.

On December 11th, outside their Toorak home, Tania Hird is animated in her defence of her husband James. She claims Demetriou knows James was being paid, and states that the AFL has total disregard for the truth. She also asks that the league desist in threatening her hubby and his Bombers.

By December 13th, the AFL has had enough and threatens to withhold fundings from Essendon if they do not offer an explanation as to whether and why Hird was receiving pay.
An agreement is reached and Hird is not to be paid before December 31st 2014, therefore he receives no pay from January 1st, 2014 until this date.

Exactly one year after the Bombers bombed out, on February 5th 2014, the investigation continues, having not a single player charged for use of performance-enhancing drugs. The Dons membership campaign swings into action. "Whatever It Takes" was probably not the smartest campaign for them in 2013, so instead they switch to "Don The Sash".

On March 2nd, The Herald Sun reveals the names of 10 players currently on the playing list who told ASADA they had suspicions of being injected with banned peptides. Paul Little hits back with another letter to members and supporters claiming "our club is by no means in any crisis". 

A day of celebration came for many of us, and a huge revelation in the AFL world was unlocked the very next day on March 3rd - Andrew Demetriou resigns as CEO of the Australian Football League, denying the timing of the Herald Sun's article the previous day having any impact on his decision. He states that his time will finish at the season's end, and that he leaves the game "with no regrets".

On March 18th, James Hird appears on the Essendon Fox Footy show The Hangar and speaks in-depth about his excitement to return to coaching once his suspension ends in August. Although Hird was banned from having any formal contact with his Club, Andrew Demetriou says the AFL approved the interview. Many mouths were soured however, at the timing of the interview, which aired on the eve of Round 1, 2014.

On March 20th, James Hird leaves for France, where he will spend the next few months with his family, and attend one of the most prestigious business schools. Tania Hird is interviewed on ABC's 7:30 program, again adamant that Essendon were tipped off by Demetriou prior to the scandal.



Tania is labelled "less than helpful" by Club Chairman Paul Little on March 21st, and will discuss James' future at the Club. Demetriou continually denies Tania's allegations. James' contract is announced as being honoured for the 2015-16 season by Little on March 26th, with many Bombers fans wondering where Mark Thompson will be left to fit in again.

A few months go by and as June 12 hits, 34 Essendon players are issued by ASADA with show-cause notices relating to the 2012 supplements scandal. It is later revealed that these players will not be included in the 3-day Federal proceedings, which begin on August 11th.

Only 4 days ago, upon his return from France last Tuesday, Hird has been granted welcome back to the Club in Round 23 this season, however it has been decided that he will not have an active role at training, nor a place in the coaches box. His focus will be entirely on the Dons' 2015 season. *As I write this, the Dons are now sitting pretty at 7th place on the ladder with a total of 10 wins and 7 losses.

So there it is, folks. The biggest scandal in the history of the AFL, and a story we will be telling generations to come. Although it is not finished, I hope all of the Clubs have taken a strong warning from the consequences of such a dirty saga and that we never have to read about such rubbish again. I still despise the Dons, however this dates way back to 1986, and my passionate love for the Collingwood Football Club seeing us as sworn enemies. Still, I can respect a legend when I see one...
 

Paul Chapman & I after the Dons smacked my boys two weeks ago
I got crucified by many for apparently "jumping ship" from the Pies.
You wish. I would never desert my team. #sidebyside

Stay tuned & keep flogging! And may our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by the devastating disappearances and bombings of MH370, MH17 and SA006 and all those involved or on the front lines in Gaza.


Lady K x0x