Could probably do without the lemon too. They are already sour as ****.
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AFLW 2024 - Round 6 - Chat, game threads, injury lists, team lineups and more.
What They're Saying - The Bulldogs Media Thread - Part 2
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The issue for Norf is that they don't represent anything . They're stuck in an area with just a lost dogs home . In their prime of the 90's they had a coach who despised any form of attention to their club .
Ozil
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Whinging is in their creed.
They're irrelevant. They represent nothing and nobody, the list has gone down the toilet, the coach is tactically inept and a destabilising influence, the chairman is a guffawing moron and the fans are so bitter and twisted that they instantly burn even the tiniest modicum of sympathy anyone can muster for them.
They're irrelevant. They represent nothing and nobody, the list has gone down the toilet, the coach is tactically inept and a destabilising influence, the chairman is a guffawing moron and the fans are so bitter and twisted that they instantly burn even the tiniest modicum of sympathy anyone can muster for them.
The Roos not representing anything is a good point. I mean, they have the "no pokies" thing, but they haven't piggy backed off of that to create an image of being a family or community club. They've sort of dropped the "shinboner spirit" angle, but haven't replaced it with anything.
I think that the Dogs and Roos operate in the same niche, from which both are trying to escape, but we've done a much better job recently of getting our (on and off field) ethos across publicly (exciting, hard working, caring, growing).
When I think about what the Roos are as a club, the positives are reducing or eliminating their debt and increasing membership, but the negatives are the PR debacles and public complaining (Brad's umpire rant, delisting legends via twitter and the backlash, Good Friday bleating). Basically, they project as the retirement aged, middle class white male of footy clubs: not wealthy, but comfortable, fiscally prudent and inexplicably grumpy. What sort of message is that?
Even geographically, I'm not sure what or where they represent. Sure, North Melbourne, but Canberra? Ballarat? Tasmania? What is the link between the communities they try and inject themselves into?
In any event, how do you get a consistent positive message across when the public faces of the club are a disliked, whingeing coach, a President who can't be taken seriously and (until he was sacked recently) one of the most anonymous and bland captains in the league.
Hopefully our club can stay on its current track for a long time and escape the Dogs/Roos/Saints/Dees minnow pack.
I think that the Dogs and Roos operate in the same niche, from which both are trying to escape, but we've done a much better job recently of getting our (on and off field) ethos across publicly (exciting, hard working, caring, growing).
When I think about what the Roos are as a club, the positives are reducing or eliminating their debt and increasing membership, but the negatives are the PR debacles and public complaining (Brad's umpire rant, delisting legends via twitter and the backlash, Good Friday bleating). Basically, they project as the retirement aged, middle class white male of footy clubs: not wealthy, but comfortable, fiscally prudent and inexplicably grumpy. What sort of message is that?
Even geographically, I'm not sure what or where they represent. Sure, North Melbourne, but Canberra? Ballarat? Tasmania? What is the link between the communities they try and inject themselves into?
In any event, how do you get a consistent positive message across when the public faces of the club are a disliked, whingeing coach, a President who can't be taken seriously and (until he was sacked recently) one of the most anonymous and bland captains in the league.
Hopefully our club can stay on its current track for a long time and escape the Dogs/Roos/Saints/Dees minnow pack.
Thanks for that. The tears over there were so salty and delicious that I stayed up till 3am taking them in ...
.... good thing I'm working from home today.Funny thing is, other than taking the piss out of them for being so salty, we never really give them any attention on our board. They on the other hand seem obsessed with us - multiple threads of evidence.
Actually the pool they've got is decent as well.
Super Hans
marcus proudson
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There's just something seriously wrong with the Norf board. I still can't believe one of their posters insinuated that Bontempelli is an advocate for the death of Indigenous Australian's because of his Lindsay Thomas comments. Or when one of them wanted to "jump the fence and choke Bontempelli to death with his head band"..
And did you know Hunter is a pussy who faked delayed concussion? Apparently unless you have concussion on the spot you're making it up.
And this was all just after a home and away loss. You'd think their mods would pull them in line but they get in on it.
But if you say Norf they want your head.. Sad sacks of shit they are.
And did you know Hunter is a pussy who faked delayed concussion? Apparently unless you have concussion on the spot you're making it up.
And this was all just after a home and away loss. You'd think their mods would pull them in line but they get in on it.
But if you say Norf they want your head.. Sad sacks of shit they are.
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Mmm its pretty gross behaviour and im pretty switched off going over there even for a laugh these days...even for the internet its a bit ridiculous.
Its only a bloody game after all.
That's the price of living in an echo chamber. You get so convinced that you and your side are the good guys that anything said or done to aid your cause is the right and just thing to say/do. It's people like that who'll say that there are "no bad tactics, just bad targets".
I for one am absolutely glad that we have a rather large group of diverse and contrarian opinions on this board, while also having a mature and level-headed group of mods. You all shit me sometimes but I wouldn't have it any other way.
100action
Norm Smith Medallist
Lmao at north turning on each other. They even disrespected their God greg miller who went out of his way to land wayne carey securing them two premierships.
This iss the equivalent of wb supporters shitcaning dalrymple. Perhaps if they rebutted or embraced the points raised by their best ever personnel instead of blindly slinging shit at him they would get somewhere.
This iss the equivalent of wb supporters shitcaning dalrymple. Perhaps if they rebutted or embraced the points raised by their best ever personnel instead of blindly slinging shit at him they would get somewhere.
GetDimmaBack
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Just went to the Norf board for a a quick look.
Too miserable, too depressing, too pointless to be wasting time going again.
Saddest, most victim-indulgent bunch on BF.
By about twice the length of the Flemington straight.
Actually feeling a bit sad for 'em - despite the fact that it's all of their own doing.
Too miserable, too depressing, too pointless to be wasting time going again.
Saddest, most victim-indulgent bunch on BF.
By about twice the length of the Flemington straight.
Actually feeling a bit sad for 'em - despite the fact that it's all of their own doing.
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This is easily THE BEST sports article I have ever read. Please take the time to enjoy this. I was reading most of it through teary eyes.
http://www.theroar.com.au/2016/10/13/the-exorcists-how-the-western-bulldogs-beat-history/
http://www.theroar.com.au/2016/10/13/the-exorcists-how-the-western-bulldogs-beat-history/
ThirdLegUp
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Jay Croucher. Take a bow...
Brilliant piece. And congrats to the Roar for clearly giving him open slather on word limit.
flyingfishdang
Senior List
Best thing I have ever read. Amazing. Sums up how we all feel/felt.
Scragcity thanks for posting that link, a magnificent read.
threenewpadlocks
Brownlow Medallist
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/bus...a/news-story/26c51877acec55737b59e3165d8e7d6d
**** me I love this club. Forward-thinking and innovative whilst the rest of the league is left swimming in old-fashioned thinking by anti-intellectual ex-players, media figures and the like.
**** me I love this club. Forward-thinking and innovative whilst the rest of the league is left swimming in old-fashioned thinking by anti-intellectual ex-players, media figures and the like.
Probably a dumb question but how do you stop opposing teams sending someone to scoop our data?
threenewpadlocks
Brownlow Medallist
You don't. Basically there's a few way that these things work - one would be we'd give the earliest possible data available (say that we had similar data for the 2012 season onwards, we'd only make the 2012 data avaliable for the hackathon), another way is you make the names of the player anonymous.
Another way is you can simply make up data from scratch. I know it sounds ridiculous but if you fudged some numbers it wouldn't be reflective of reality.
Remember that it isn't so much the data that's valuable, but the application - so if somebody who wins this competition comes up with a new awesome way to help our positioning at stoppages or visualising ball movement with data or whatever, presumably our club will utilise that method and the trade-off is worth it from some scout from Hawthorn or whatever getting access to Shane Biggs' positional data for 2015.
Capital_Dog
Rookie
Indeed. Saw it yesterday. Captures very well, what it is has been like been a Bulldogs fan over the last few decades.
Congrats to Jay.
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Well worth the read for when you get to the bottom of the article...
Flag Droughts - How long has your club been waiting?
Staff writers
October 15, 2016 8:00 AM
Last premiership: 1998
Drought: 18 years
It's been a case of so near yet so far for the Crows since winning their first two premierships. The Crows have reached the finals in 11 of the past 18 seasons. Four of those runs finished with preliminary final heartbreak, with the most recent coming in 2012. The Crows have always been around the mark, making shrewd trades to bring in Eddie Betts and quality draft picks to remain in the hunt.
Coach: Malcolm Blight
Captain: Mark Bickley
Norm Smith medallist: Andrew McLeod going back to back.
In 1998 …
Mark Taylor equaled the great Don Bradman's record Test score for an Australian cricketer of 334. The Midday Showgets the chop after 25 years on the air and the Aussies clean up at the Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur with 199 medals. - Lee Gaskin
Last premiership: 2003
Drought: 13 years
It's been just 13 years since the Lions finished off their historic hat-trick of premierships from 2001-2003. On that occasion they flogged favourites Collingwood by 50 points, led by Simon Black's Grand Final-record 39 disposals and five goals to Jason Akermanis. They made the decider the following year against Port Adelaide, but since then have contested the finals just once – in 2009. Things plummeted following the bungled recruitment of Brendan Fevola, and like most of the past seven seasons, the Lions again are in rebuild mode under new coach Chris Fagan.
Coach: Leigh Matthews
Captain: Michael Voss
Norm Smith medallist: Simon Black
In 2003 …
Shane Warne was suspended for 12 months, just days before cricket's World Cup after a positive test to an banned drug. - Michael Whiting
Last premiership: 1995
Drought: 21 years
The Blues capped off a record-breaking season in 1995, winning the final 16 games to secure their 16th premiership. Apart from a brief resurgence under club great Brett Ratten, when they competed in finals for three consecutive seasons (2009-11), the past 21 years have been the worst in the club's history. The closest the Blues have come to a premiership was in 1999 when they were defeated by North Melbourne in the Grand Final.
Coach: David Parkin
Captain: Stephen Kernahan
Norm Smith medallist: Greg Williams (Carlton)
In 1995 …
Ray Martin won his fourth Gold Logie as host of Channel Nine’s A Current Affair. - Howard Kotton
Last premiership: 2010
Drought: Six years
It's been only six years since the Magpies last saluted but it seems considerably longer, given all that has transpired since. The next year the Pies were conquered by just one team, Geelong, on three occasions including the Grand Final. The club then enacted its controversial coaching succession plan, replacing Mick Malthouse with Nathan Buckley, and Buckley has gradually overhauled the list while unexpectedly sliding down the ladder to fourth, eighth, 11th, 12th and 12th. They remain optimistic about a rapid rise built on talented youth.
Coach: Mick Malthouse
Captain: Nick Maxwell
Norm Smith medallist: Lenny Hayes (St Kilda) in the drawn grand final and Scott Pendlebury (Collingwood) in the replay.
In 2010 …
A 1932 Picasso painting of his mistress fetched a record $106.5 million at a Christie's auction. Meanwhile, Pies fans happily forked out $7 for fake sleeve tattoos to be more like superstar Dane Swan. - Ben Collins
Last premiership: 2000
Drought: 16 years
Essendon's last flag was perhaps its greatest ever, as the Bombers ran rampant to record the best single season by a club in the game's history. The Bombers lost just one game for the season en route to their 16th flag, winning 24 of a possible 25 games, and they thumped Melbourne by 10 goals in the Grand Final. The Bombers blew a great chance to claim back-to-back flags the following year when they took a bunch of injured players into the premiership decider against the Brisbane Lions, and haven't been close to adding to their trophy cabinet since. They haven't even won a final since 2004, meaning only Richmond has a longer drought since a finals win (discounting Gold Coast as a new side in the competition).
Coach: Kevin Sheedy
Captain: James Hird
Norm Smith medallist: James Hird
In 2000…
The Olympic Games were held in Sydney, which forced the AFL to restructure its fixture. The Grand Final was held a few weeks earlier than usual on September 2, allowing for the Olympics' start on September 15 and take the spotlight for most of the month. - Callum Twomey
Last premiership: N/A
Drought: 22 years
The Dockers are yet to break their premiership duck, having entered the competition in 1995. The Dockers struggled early in their existence. They did not play a final until 2003 and didn't win a final until 2006. They have played in three preliminary finals but have only played in one Grand Final in 2013. They came very close to winning that premiership but inaccurate kicking and a lack of composure at times cost them against Hawthorn. - Alex Malcolm
Last premiership: 2011
Drought: Five years
Striving to become one of the greatest teams of the modern era, and win its third premiership in five years, Geelong achieved the feat with victory over Collingwood. It was a coming of age for young forward Tom Hawkins, who played the best game of his career, hauling in seven contested marks – the most ever recorded in a Grand Final. A trademark Jimmy Bartel performance saw him adjudged best on ground, while Steve Johnson booted four goals with a dislocated kneecap. It was also coach Chris Scott's first year in charge at the Cattery. The Cats have made two preliminary finals (2013 and 2016) in that time, but are still searching to return the big match.
Coach: Chris Scott
Captain: Cameron Ling
Norm Smith medallist: Jimmy Bartel
In 2011…
Apple co-founder Steve Jobs died, aged 56, of cancer. - Ben Guthrie
Last premiership: N/A
Drought: Six years
Just six years into their existence, the Suns are not only without a premiership, but are the only club in the competition to never play finals. It looked assured in 2014 when they stormed to a 9-6 record, but a Gary Ablett shoulder dislocation dashed their hopes, as the Suns lost six of their final seven matches. Although individuals have made significant improvements in recent years, there are more questions than answers ahead of the 2017 season. They have plenty of talent and could ascend quickly, but a first flag still looks some way off. - Michael Whiting
Last premiership: N/A
Drought: Five years
The Giants came close to winning their first premiership in 2016, but fell just short of a Grand Final berth when they were beaten by eventual premiers the Western Bulldogs in a thrilling preliminary final. In 2016, GWS set a club record for number of wins in a season, won in Perth and Adelaide for the first time, and with no stars leaving in the off-season, they'll be right up there again in 2017. - Adam Curley
Last premiership: 2015
Drought: One year
The Hawks quest for a fourth-straight flag ended after a straight-sets defeat in the finals. But they're reloading quickly to contend again next year, with former Tiger Ty Vickery already on board as a much-needed ruck/forward role. Will Tom Mitchell and Jaeger O'Meara follow him to Waverley? If they do, the top four beckons for the Hawks again.
Coach: Alastair Clarkson
Captain: Luke Hodge
Norm Smith medallist: Cyril Rioli
In 2015 …
Donald Trump was an angry New York property tycoon and reality TV star, considering a run for political office - Ashley Browne
Last premiership: 1964
Drought: 52 years
After the Western Bulldogs' premiership triumph this season, Melbourne now holds the longest flag drought. Their last premiership victory came in 1964 when legendary coach Norm Smith won his sixth VFL premiership. The Demons have appeared in just two Grand Finals since, in 1988 and 2000. The Demons, who led by 11 points at the final change, surrendered the lead to their rivals in the fourth quarter but a late winner from defender Neil Crompton ensured the flag was theirs. Smith was infamously dismissed from his coaching job the following year, sparking the so-called Norm Smith 'curse'.
Coach: Norm Smith
Captain: Ron Barassi
Norm Smith medalllist: The Norm Smith Medal, named after the Melbourne coach, wasn't struck until 1979.
In 1964…
'Beatlemania' swept across Australia as the mop-topped English band made their way Down Under for the first time.- Ben Guthrie
Last premiership: 1999
Drought: 17 years
The Roos sought redemption after kicking themselves out of the 1998 Grand Final and overpowered Carlton by 35 points, a week after the Blues clinched an a famous prelim final victory over Essendon by a point. North's triumph marked the club's second flag in four seasons and was the beginning of the end of the Kangaroos' dominant era. The next year was the last of their seven successive preliminary final appearances and North hasn't been back to the big dance this century.
Coach: Denis Pagan
Captain: Wayne Carey
Norm Smith medallist: Shannon Grant (North Melbourne)
In 1999 …
Australians voted 'No' in the republic referendum. - Travis King
Last premiership: 2004
Drought: 12 years
The Power's hopes of going back-to-back ended with a semi-final loss to cross-town rivals Adelaide. Then came the embarrassing 119-point flogging by Geelong in the 2007 Grand Final, after which the Power missed the finals for five straight years. The Cats again ended their chances in 2013 before a gut-wrenching three-point preliminary final loss to Hawthorn the following year. The Power have missed the finals the past two years and appear some way off challenging for a flag.
Coach: Mark Williams
Captain: Warren Tredrea
Norm Smith medallist: Byron Pickett
In 2004 …
Gardening guru Don Burke digs a hole for the final time with his iconic TV show Burke's Burkeyard getting canned. Casey Donovan wins Australian Idol (before disappearing just as quickly), while Will Ferrell unleashes Ron Burgundy upon the world. - Lee Gaskin
Last premiership: 1980
Drought: 36 years
Now a Richmond 'immortal', it was Kevin Bartlett who led an 81-point thrashing of Collingwood in the Tigers' last premiership in 1980. The club's 10th flag marked the end of a highly successful 13 years that netted five premierships. The club has since played in one Grand Final (1982) and just six finals series. The Tigers looked to be on the right track, playing in consecutive finals in 2013-15, but now appear to be in rebuild mode once more with no indication when their breakthrough flag will come.
Coach: Tony Jewell
Captain: Bruce Monteath
Norm Smith medallist: Kevin Bartlett (Richmond)
In 1980 …
Sale of the Century made its debut on Channel Nine. -Nathan Schmook
Last premiership: 1966
Drought: 50 years
Since St Kilda's first and only premiership, it has played in five Grand Finals. In 2010, the Saints drew with Collingwood before losing the replay. The previous year ended in defeat at the hands of Geelong after finishing 20-2 during the home and away season. Darren Jarman booted six goals as Adelaide overcame a half-time deficit in 1997 to topple St Kilda and Hawthorn was the Saints' conqueror in 1971, by seven points.
Coach: Allan Jeans
Captain: Darrel Baldock
Norm Smith medallist: Not awarded but St Kilda historian Russell Holmesby rated Ian Stewart the best player that day, with Ian Cooper also having played very well.
In 1966 …
England won the only soccer World Cup in its history. -Dinny Navaratnam
Last premiership: 2012
Drought: Four years
The Swans have come extremely close to adding another premiership to their 2012 triumph, but just can't quite turn regular season results into flags. They lost the decider in 2014 to Hawthorn, and this year to the Western Bulldogs, went down to Fremantle in Perth in the 2013 preliminary final, and lost two finals in 2015 after finishing in the top four in all four years. With a star-studded midfield and some quality young talent coming through, there's no doubt the Swans will be a chance again in 2017.
Coach: John Longmire
Captain: Jarrad McVeigh and Adam Goodes
Norm Smith medallist: Ryan O'Keefe
In 2012 …
The hashtag #Linsanity took over the world, thanks to the brief success of New York Knicks point guard Jeremy Lin in the NBA. The Asian-American phenomenon came and went all in the same season however, and the 28-year-old is now with the Brooklyn Nets, his sixth NBA franchise. - Adam Curley
Last premiership: 2006
Drought: 10 years
The Eagles celebrated the 10-year anniversary of their last premiership triumph this year. Only one 2006 premiership player, Sam Butler, is still playing. They had a dramatic fall from grace following that triumph with the well-documented illicit drug issues surrounding the club. The Eagles made the top-four in 2007 but were knocked out in straight sets. They struggled for three years before returning to play in a preliminary final in 2011. Another dip in 2013 led to John Worsfold's resignation. Adam Simpson took the Eagles to a Grand Final in 2015 but the Hawks were far too good. The Eagles also fell well short in the elimination final this year against the Western Bulldogs despite winning 16 home and away games.
Coach: John Worsfold
Captain: Chris Judd
Norm Smith medallist: Andrew Embley (West Coast)
In 2006 …
Melbourne hosted the Commonwealth Games in March. The MCG was unavailable for AFL football until round four when Collingwood and Essendon played on Anzac Day. - Alex Malcolm
Last premiership: 2016
Drought: No drought
The competition's longest drought broke nearly two weeks ago and it brought unbridled joy to the red, white and blue faithful, who had endured 62 years since the club's one and only flag in 1954. The football world rejoiced as the Dogs finally had their day and grown men shed many a tear as Luke Beveridge and Easton Wood held aloft the premiership cup.
Coach: Luke Beveridge
Captain: Easton Wood
Norm Smith medallist: Jason Johannisen
In 2016 …
Etihad Stadium was purchased by the AFL for a reported $200 million, and sale should give the Dogs a better stadium deal and therefore for money to spend on future premiership assaults. - Ryan Davidson
Flag Droughts - How long has your club been waiting?
Staff writers
October 15, 2016 8:00 AM
Last premiership: 1998
Drought: 18 years
It's been a case of so near yet so far for the Crows since winning their first two premierships. The Crows have reached the finals in 11 of the past 18 seasons. Four of those runs finished with preliminary final heartbreak, with the most recent coming in 2012. The Crows have always been around the mark, making shrewd trades to bring in Eddie Betts and quality draft picks to remain in the hunt.
Coach: Malcolm Blight
Captain: Mark Bickley
Norm Smith medallist: Andrew McLeod going back to back.
In 1998 …
Mark Taylor equaled the great Don Bradman's record Test score for an Australian cricketer of 334. The Midday Showgets the chop after 25 years on the air and the Aussies clean up at the Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur with 199 medals. - Lee Gaskin
Last premiership: 2003
Drought: 13 years
It's been just 13 years since the Lions finished off their historic hat-trick of premierships from 2001-2003. On that occasion they flogged favourites Collingwood by 50 points, led by Simon Black's Grand Final-record 39 disposals and five goals to Jason Akermanis. They made the decider the following year against Port Adelaide, but since then have contested the finals just once – in 2009. Things plummeted following the bungled recruitment of Brendan Fevola, and like most of the past seven seasons, the Lions again are in rebuild mode under new coach Chris Fagan.
Coach: Leigh Matthews
Captain: Michael Voss
Norm Smith medallist: Simon Black
In 2003 …
Shane Warne was suspended for 12 months, just days before cricket's World Cup after a positive test to an banned drug. - Michael Whiting
Last premiership: 1995
Drought: 21 years
The Blues capped off a record-breaking season in 1995, winning the final 16 games to secure their 16th premiership. Apart from a brief resurgence under club great Brett Ratten, when they competed in finals for three consecutive seasons (2009-11), the past 21 years have been the worst in the club's history. The closest the Blues have come to a premiership was in 1999 when they were defeated by North Melbourne in the Grand Final.
Coach: David Parkin
Captain: Stephen Kernahan
Norm Smith medallist: Greg Williams (Carlton)
In 1995 …
Ray Martin won his fourth Gold Logie as host of Channel Nine’s A Current Affair. - Howard Kotton
Last premiership: 2010
Drought: Six years
It's been only six years since the Magpies last saluted but it seems considerably longer, given all that has transpired since. The next year the Pies were conquered by just one team, Geelong, on three occasions including the Grand Final. The club then enacted its controversial coaching succession plan, replacing Mick Malthouse with Nathan Buckley, and Buckley has gradually overhauled the list while unexpectedly sliding down the ladder to fourth, eighth, 11th, 12th and 12th. They remain optimistic about a rapid rise built on talented youth.
Coach: Mick Malthouse
Captain: Nick Maxwell
Norm Smith medallist: Lenny Hayes (St Kilda) in the drawn grand final and Scott Pendlebury (Collingwood) in the replay.
In 2010 …
A 1932 Picasso painting of his mistress fetched a record $106.5 million at a Christie's auction. Meanwhile, Pies fans happily forked out $7 for fake sleeve tattoos to be more like superstar Dane Swan. - Ben Collins
Last premiership: 2000
Drought: 16 years
Essendon's last flag was perhaps its greatest ever, as the Bombers ran rampant to record the best single season by a club in the game's history. The Bombers lost just one game for the season en route to their 16th flag, winning 24 of a possible 25 games, and they thumped Melbourne by 10 goals in the Grand Final. The Bombers blew a great chance to claim back-to-back flags the following year when they took a bunch of injured players into the premiership decider against the Brisbane Lions, and haven't been close to adding to their trophy cabinet since. They haven't even won a final since 2004, meaning only Richmond has a longer drought since a finals win (discounting Gold Coast as a new side in the competition).
Coach: Kevin Sheedy
Captain: James Hird
Norm Smith medallist: James Hird
In 2000…
The Olympic Games were held in Sydney, which forced the AFL to restructure its fixture. The Grand Final was held a few weeks earlier than usual on September 2, allowing for the Olympics' start on September 15 and take the spotlight for most of the month. - Callum Twomey
Last premiership: N/A
Drought: 22 years
The Dockers are yet to break their premiership duck, having entered the competition in 1995. The Dockers struggled early in their existence. They did not play a final until 2003 and didn't win a final until 2006. They have played in three preliminary finals but have only played in one Grand Final in 2013. They came very close to winning that premiership but inaccurate kicking and a lack of composure at times cost them against Hawthorn. - Alex Malcolm
Last premiership: 2011
Drought: Five years
Striving to become one of the greatest teams of the modern era, and win its third premiership in five years, Geelong achieved the feat with victory over Collingwood. It was a coming of age for young forward Tom Hawkins, who played the best game of his career, hauling in seven contested marks – the most ever recorded in a Grand Final. A trademark Jimmy Bartel performance saw him adjudged best on ground, while Steve Johnson booted four goals with a dislocated kneecap. It was also coach Chris Scott's first year in charge at the Cattery. The Cats have made two preliminary finals (2013 and 2016) in that time, but are still searching to return the big match.
Coach: Chris Scott
Captain: Cameron Ling
Norm Smith medallist: Jimmy Bartel
In 2011…
Apple co-founder Steve Jobs died, aged 56, of cancer. - Ben Guthrie
Last premiership: N/A
Drought: Six years
Just six years into their existence, the Suns are not only without a premiership, but are the only club in the competition to never play finals. It looked assured in 2014 when they stormed to a 9-6 record, but a Gary Ablett shoulder dislocation dashed their hopes, as the Suns lost six of their final seven matches. Although individuals have made significant improvements in recent years, there are more questions than answers ahead of the 2017 season. They have plenty of talent and could ascend quickly, but a first flag still looks some way off. - Michael Whiting
Last premiership: N/A
Drought: Five years
The Giants came close to winning their first premiership in 2016, but fell just short of a Grand Final berth when they were beaten by eventual premiers the Western Bulldogs in a thrilling preliminary final. In 2016, GWS set a club record for number of wins in a season, won in Perth and Adelaide for the first time, and with no stars leaving in the off-season, they'll be right up there again in 2017. - Adam Curley
Last premiership: 2015
Drought: One year
The Hawks quest for a fourth-straight flag ended after a straight-sets defeat in the finals. But they're reloading quickly to contend again next year, with former Tiger Ty Vickery already on board as a much-needed ruck/forward role. Will Tom Mitchell and Jaeger O'Meara follow him to Waverley? If they do, the top four beckons for the Hawks again.
Coach: Alastair Clarkson
Captain: Luke Hodge
Norm Smith medallist: Cyril Rioli
In 2015 …
Donald Trump was an angry New York property tycoon and reality TV star, considering a run for political office - Ashley Browne
Last premiership: 1964
Drought: 52 years
After the Western Bulldogs' premiership triumph this season, Melbourne now holds the longest flag drought. Their last premiership victory came in 1964 when legendary coach Norm Smith won his sixth VFL premiership. The Demons have appeared in just two Grand Finals since, in 1988 and 2000. The Demons, who led by 11 points at the final change, surrendered the lead to their rivals in the fourth quarter but a late winner from defender Neil Crompton ensured the flag was theirs. Smith was infamously dismissed from his coaching job the following year, sparking the so-called Norm Smith 'curse'.
Coach: Norm Smith
Captain: Ron Barassi
Norm Smith medalllist: The Norm Smith Medal, named after the Melbourne coach, wasn't struck until 1979.
In 1964…
'Beatlemania' swept across Australia as the mop-topped English band made their way Down Under for the first time.- Ben Guthrie
Last premiership: 1999
Drought: 17 years
The Roos sought redemption after kicking themselves out of the 1998 Grand Final and overpowered Carlton by 35 points, a week after the Blues clinched an a famous prelim final victory over Essendon by a point. North's triumph marked the club's second flag in four seasons and was the beginning of the end of the Kangaroos' dominant era. The next year was the last of their seven successive preliminary final appearances and North hasn't been back to the big dance this century.
Coach: Denis Pagan
Captain: Wayne Carey
Norm Smith medallist: Shannon Grant (North Melbourne)
In 1999 …
Australians voted 'No' in the republic referendum. - Travis King
Last premiership: 2004
Drought: 12 years
The Power's hopes of going back-to-back ended with a semi-final loss to cross-town rivals Adelaide. Then came the embarrassing 119-point flogging by Geelong in the 2007 Grand Final, after which the Power missed the finals for five straight years. The Cats again ended their chances in 2013 before a gut-wrenching three-point preliminary final loss to Hawthorn the following year. The Power have missed the finals the past two years and appear some way off challenging for a flag.
Coach: Mark Williams
Captain: Warren Tredrea
Norm Smith medallist: Byron Pickett
In 2004 …
Gardening guru Don Burke digs a hole for the final time with his iconic TV show Burke's Burkeyard getting canned. Casey Donovan wins Australian Idol (before disappearing just as quickly), while Will Ferrell unleashes Ron Burgundy upon the world. - Lee Gaskin
Last premiership: 1980
Drought: 36 years
Now a Richmond 'immortal', it was Kevin Bartlett who led an 81-point thrashing of Collingwood in the Tigers' last premiership in 1980. The club's 10th flag marked the end of a highly successful 13 years that netted five premierships. The club has since played in one Grand Final (1982) and just six finals series. The Tigers looked to be on the right track, playing in consecutive finals in 2013-15, but now appear to be in rebuild mode once more with no indication when their breakthrough flag will come.
Coach: Tony Jewell
Captain: Bruce Monteath
Norm Smith medallist: Kevin Bartlett (Richmond)
In 1980 …
Sale of the Century made its debut on Channel Nine. -Nathan Schmook
Last premiership: 1966
Drought: 50 years
Since St Kilda's first and only premiership, it has played in five Grand Finals. In 2010, the Saints drew with Collingwood before losing the replay. The previous year ended in defeat at the hands of Geelong after finishing 20-2 during the home and away season. Darren Jarman booted six goals as Adelaide overcame a half-time deficit in 1997 to topple St Kilda and Hawthorn was the Saints' conqueror in 1971, by seven points.
Coach: Allan Jeans
Captain: Darrel Baldock
Norm Smith medallist: Not awarded but St Kilda historian Russell Holmesby rated Ian Stewart the best player that day, with Ian Cooper also having played very well.
In 1966 …
England won the only soccer World Cup in its history. -Dinny Navaratnam
Last premiership: 2012
Drought: Four years
The Swans have come extremely close to adding another premiership to their 2012 triumph, but just can't quite turn regular season results into flags. They lost the decider in 2014 to Hawthorn, and this year to the Western Bulldogs, went down to Fremantle in Perth in the 2013 preliminary final, and lost two finals in 2015 after finishing in the top four in all four years. With a star-studded midfield and some quality young talent coming through, there's no doubt the Swans will be a chance again in 2017.
Coach: John Longmire
Captain: Jarrad McVeigh and Adam Goodes
Norm Smith medallist: Ryan O'Keefe
In 2012 …
The hashtag #Linsanity took over the world, thanks to the brief success of New York Knicks point guard Jeremy Lin in the NBA. The Asian-American phenomenon came and went all in the same season however, and the 28-year-old is now with the Brooklyn Nets, his sixth NBA franchise. - Adam Curley
Last premiership: 2006
Drought: 10 years
The Eagles celebrated the 10-year anniversary of their last premiership triumph this year. Only one 2006 premiership player, Sam Butler, is still playing. They had a dramatic fall from grace following that triumph with the well-documented illicit drug issues surrounding the club. The Eagles made the top-four in 2007 but were knocked out in straight sets. They struggled for three years before returning to play in a preliminary final in 2011. Another dip in 2013 led to John Worsfold's resignation. Adam Simpson took the Eagles to a Grand Final in 2015 but the Hawks were far too good. The Eagles also fell well short in the elimination final this year against the Western Bulldogs despite winning 16 home and away games.
Coach: John Worsfold
Captain: Chris Judd
Norm Smith medallist: Andrew Embley (West Coast)
In 2006 …
Melbourne hosted the Commonwealth Games in March. The MCG was unavailable for AFL football until round four when Collingwood and Essendon played on Anzac Day. - Alex Malcolm
Last premiership: 2016
Drought: No drought
The competition's longest drought broke nearly two weeks ago and it brought unbridled joy to the red, white and blue faithful, who had endured 62 years since the club's one and only flag in 1954. The football world rejoiced as the Dogs finally had their day and grown men shed many a tear as Luke Beveridge and Easton Wood held aloft the premiership cup.
Coach: Luke Beveridge
Captain: Easton Wood
Norm Smith medallist: Jason Johannisen
In 2016 …
Etihad Stadium was purchased by the AFL for a reported $200 million, and sale should give the Dogs a better stadium deal and therefore for money to spend on future premiership assaults. - Ryan Davidson
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/a...ialSF&utm_source=HeraldSun&utm_medium=Twitter
EVERYWHERE Western Bulldogs’ president Peter Gordon looks, indicators show the club is experiencing massive growth.
The Bulldogs have had to find extra staff to handle membership queries.
And you can’t buy a membership to the social club for next year. They sold out two days after the club’s Grand Final win on October 1, the Bulldogs’ first flag since 1954.
TRADE NEWS: HAMLING’S FREO MOVE FORCES RESHUFFLE
Gordon says the Bulldogs aspire to become “one of the middle or even larger clubs”.
Part of that strategy is making a submission to play on Good Friday next year, as well as slashing the club’s debt of over $9 million.
“The impetus given to the business by what the team was able to do was probably the most significant economic benefit to the club for the long term, ever,” Gordon told the Sunday Herald Sun.
“We had our best-and-fairest on the Wednesday following the Grand Final and I think there were just on 1600 people there, which was far and away the biggest we’ve ever had.
“We saw the chart of the ratings this week for television audiences per club, which we’ve moved I think from 14th to No.1 in 12 months.
Western Bulldogs president Peter Gordon says things are booming out west.
“We have never, maybe this year for the first time, sold out our social club membership.
“We rule the line at 10,000 and we had sold out of social club memberships by the Monday after the Grand Final, for 2017.
“We’ve had to employ extra people in our membership team to cope with the demand.
“We’ve got very strong corporate interest for next year. From a business point of view, there’s almost no indicator that isn’t trending in the right direction for us, either very, very dramatically or significantly.”
Gordon says the increase in demand for all of the club’s products and services has been a welcome challenge for chief executive Gary Kent and his management team.
“We’re anticipating the healthiest (profit) result we’ve had in many years,” Gordon said.
“We believe we can make a significant inroad into our debt, which started the year at about $9.5 million.”
Gordon said it would be easy to focus on paying off the debt.
“But in another sense … one could say the most enduring legacy that we as a board could leave for the next generation of leadership would be a dramatically increased fan base, membership base, and to have moved the club from the rankings of the smaller clubs of the AFL into a different category, into one of the middle or even larger clubs,” Gordon said.
The AFL has recorded the Bulldogs’ membership tally at just under 40,000 in 2016.
“I don’t have any doubt that we will have a record membership in 2017,” Gordon said.
EVERYWHERE Western Bulldogs’ president Peter Gordon looks, indicators show the club is experiencing massive growth.
The Bulldogs have had to find extra staff to handle membership queries.
And you can’t buy a membership to the social club for next year. They sold out two days after the club’s Grand Final win on October 1, the Bulldogs’ first flag since 1954.
TRADE NEWS: HAMLING’S FREO MOVE FORCES RESHUFFLE
Gordon says the Bulldogs aspire to become “one of the middle or even larger clubs”.
Part of that strategy is making a submission to play on Good Friday next year, as well as slashing the club’s debt of over $9 million.
“The impetus given to the business by what the team was able to do was probably the most significant economic benefit to the club for the long term, ever,” Gordon told the Sunday Herald Sun.
“We had our best-and-fairest on the Wednesday following the Grand Final and I think there were just on 1600 people there, which was far and away the biggest we’ve ever had.
“We saw the chart of the ratings this week for television audiences per club, which we’ve moved I think from 14th to No.1 in 12 months.
Western Bulldogs president Peter Gordon says things are booming out west.
“We have never, maybe this year for the first time, sold out our social club membership.
“We rule the line at 10,000 and we had sold out of social club memberships by the Monday after the Grand Final, for 2017.
“We’ve had to employ extra people in our membership team to cope with the demand.
“We’ve got very strong corporate interest for next year. From a business point of view, there’s almost no indicator that isn’t trending in the right direction for us, either very, very dramatically or significantly.”
Gordon says the increase in demand for all of the club’s products and services has been a welcome challenge for chief executive Gary Kent and his management team.
“We’re anticipating the healthiest (profit) result we’ve had in many years,” Gordon said.
“We believe we can make a significant inroad into our debt, which started the year at about $9.5 million.”
Gordon said it would be easy to focus on paying off the debt.
“But in another sense … one could say the most enduring legacy that we as a board could leave for the next generation of leadership would be a dramatically increased fan base, membership base, and to have moved the club from the rankings of the smaller clubs of the AFL into a different category, into one of the middle or even larger clubs,” Gordon said.
The AFL has recorded the Bulldogs’ membership tally at just under 40,000 in 2016.
“I don’t have any doubt that we will have a record membership in 2017,” Gordon said.
- Dec 21, 2005
- 23,638
- 14,971
- AFL Club
- Western Bulldogs
Is 'the Bont' the best 20-year-old we've seen?
Ben Collins
October 16, 2016 8:00 AM
Marcus Bontemepelli already has the premiership medal that so many greats missed out on
IN A WHIRLWIND start to his AFL career, Marcus Bontempelli has attracted comparisons with with some of the biggest names in the history of the game.
The 2016 Western Bulldogs premiership hero's meteoric rise to superstar status has prompted some to ponder whether he is the best 20-year-old of all time.
To assist the discussion, we've compiled a shortlist of 14 players who were champions at 20. It's not a definitive list, but it's comprised entirely of Australian Football Hall of Famers, and almost entirely of official Legends, including icons such as Jack Dyer, John Coleman, Ted Whitten, Ron Barassi, Leigh Matthews and Tony Lockett.
Before their 21st birthdays many had won club best and fairests, and eight had claimed Brownlow Medals – Geelong's Edward 'Carji' Greeves, Collingwood's Albert 'Leeter' Collier, Fitzroy's Haydn Bunton and Denis 'Dinny' Ryan, Essendon's Dick Reynolds and Gavin Wanganeen, South Melbourne's Bob Skilton and Melbourne's Brian Wilson – while West Coast's Chris Judd and Brisbane's Michael Voss had both barely turned 21 when they took 'Charlie' home.
So 'The Bont' has fierce competition.
Before we take a closer look at some other terrific 20s, let's re-cap Bontempelli's remarkable achievements.
In just his third AFL season since the Bulldogs snaffled the former Northern Knights under-18s star with pick No.4 in the 2013 NAB AFL Draft, the tall midfielder enjoyed a 2016 season that has already entered Bulldog folklore.
After finishing third in the Dogs' best and fairest last year at 19, Bontempelli won the club award in a premiership year - something of a gold standard for footballers. And he did it easily, receiving 319 votes while his nearest teammate Dale Morris managed 248, as the youngster helped pilot the Dogs to their first flag in 62 years.
The precocious left-footer, who was also selected in the All Australian team for the first time, was the youngest club champion in a premiership team since Leigh Matthews' effort at Hawthorn in 1971.
Youngest best and fairest winners in premiership years
Age
Player
Club
Season
19y, 207d
Leigh Matthews
Hawthorn
1971
20y, 81d
Albert Collier
Collingwood
1929
20y, 201d
Kevin Bartlett
Richmond
1967
20y, 305d
John Coleman
Essendon
1949
20y, 312d
Marcus Bontempelli
Western Bulldogs
2016
20y, 364d
Harry Collier
Collingwood
1928
• Age measured to Grand Final day.
• Since 1988, Richmond has listed Jack Dyer as its 1932 best and fairest winner (when he was just 18 years and 320 days), but exhaustive research by club historians Rhett Bartlett and Trevor Ruddell has failed to reveal any evidence of this accolade.
Regardless of how Bontempelli measures up among the top 20-year-olds in history, he seems destined for similar greatness, which he'd no doubt take in his smooth stride.
TERRIFIC 20-YEAR-OLDS
Peter Burns
DOB: January 5, 1866
Career: South Melbourne 1885-1891 (VFA), Geelong 1892-96 (VFA) & 1897-1902 (VFL)
At 20 he was … arguably the biggest name in the game. The previous year, as a 19-year-old in 1885, he'd left Ballarat Imperial to join South Melbourne, which he immediately lifted to a premiership team, prompting The Australasian to hail him as the player of the season.
He became … 'Peter The Great' – the code's first superstar, its first 300-gamer and one of the greatest players of the game's first 50 years. Won four VFA flags with South and was the first captain of a VFL representative team.
Dick Lee
DOB: March 19, 1889
Career: Collingwood 1906-1922
At 20 he was … the best sharpshooter in the VFL, having topped the League goalkicking table in three successive seasons to draw within just 20 goals of the all-time goals record.
He became … a goalkicking legend. A longtime holder of the League's goals (707) record, the three-time premiership player led the competition goalkicking a record eight times (10 if we include finals) and was later inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame.
Bob Pratt
DOB: August 31, 1912
Career: South Melbourne 1930-39 & 1946
At 20 he was … the most spectacular high-marking forward in the competition. Kicked 71 goals in 17 games in 1932 and, before his 21st birthday the following season, had piled on 85 in 13 games en route to his first century and a premiership.
He became … a record-breaking goalkicker and an official Legend. Amassed three successive, League-topping centuries, including what remains a record of 150 in 1934, matched by only Hawthorn's Peter Hudson in 1971.
Haydn Bunton
DOB: July 5, 1911
Career: Fitzroy 1931-37 & 1942, Subiaco 1938-41, Port Adelaide 1945
At 20 he was … captain and well on the way to his second Brownlow Medal in just his second season. The seemingly unstoppable rover also represented Victoria in both seasons, averaging 31.5 kicks and 10.5 marks in two games.
He became … the only man to win three Brownlow and three Sandover Medals, and would later achieve Legend status and a place in the AFL's Team of the Century.
Jack Dyer
DOB: November 15, 1913
Career: Richmond 1931-49
At 20 he was … already one of the most explosive and feared players in the competition. At 18, the ruckman/forward played just 10 games but received the equal-most Brownlow Medal votes for his team (equal-fifth overall) in the premiership year of 1932, and represented Victoria. If not for injury that year, he'd have played in Grand Finals in each of his first four seasons.
He became … the famed 'Captain Blood'. Played a then-record 312 games, was a long-term captain-coach/coach, won two flags and an equal club-record five best and fairests (see table above), was selected in the AFL's Team of the Century, became a Legend in the Australian Football Hall of Fame and was also a footy media megastar.
Jack Dyer, seen here at the MCG in 1999, has few equals in Richmond folklore. Picture: AFL Photos
Dick Reynolds
DOB: June 20, 1915
Career: Essendon 1933-51
At 20 he was … one of the VFL's best rovers, finishing equal-seventh in the Brownlow Medal in his debut season at 18, winning the medal the next year, finishing equal-fifth in his third season and in 1936 was on his way to another top-10 placing along with a second club best and fairest.
He became … known as 'King Richard', played a then-League record of 320 games, won three Brownlows and an equal club record of seven best and fairests, captain-coached/coached the Bombers to 12 Grand Finals for four premierships, and earned Legend status and a spot in the AFL's Team of the Century.
Des Fothergill
DOB: July 15, 1920
Career: Collingwood 1937-40 and 1945-47
At 20 he was … a Brownlow medallist and a three-time club best and fairest winner, twice in teams that finished runner-up. In the 1938 finals series, the powerhouse rover/forward tallied 6.1 from 28 kicks in a semi-final, 5.0 from 26 kicks in the preliminary final, and eventual premier Carlton was relieved to keep him to 20 kicks and 4.3 in the Grand Final.
He became … a shock defector to VFA club Williamstown on a lucrative deal, later returning to the Pies where he continued to star from 1945-47, topping the League goalkicking in 1946. Selected in Collingwood's Team of the Century and was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame.
John Coleman
DOB: November 23, 1928
Career: Essendon 1949-54
At 20 he was … and remains the only player to kick 100 goals in his first season. The high-leaping spearhead bagged a record 12 goals on debut and was a key to Essendon's premiership side that season.
He became … one of the most magical players in history, and the full-forward in the AFL's Team of the Century. The official Legend booted 537 goals in just 98 games, winning two flags and leading the League goalkicking in each of his five completed seasons, before a knee injury ended his career at 25. Later coached the Bombers to two premierships.
On top of his goalkicking feats, John Coleman coached the Dons to a pair of flags. Picture: AFL Photos
Ted Whitten
DOB: July 27, 1933
Career: Footscray 1951-70
At 20 he was … A dynamic centre half-back who would soon be voted club champion in the Bulldogs' first premiership year. Had been their best finals player the previous season.
He became … 'Mr Football' - one of the game's greatest players and ambassadors. A true utility who could play in any key position, Whitten played a then League record 321 games, won a then equal club record five best and fairests, and was recognised with official Legend status and selection in the AFL's Team of the Century.
Ron Barassi
DOB: February 27, 1936
Career: Melbourne 1953-64, Carlton 1965-69
At 20 he was … a unique player later described as the game's first ruck-rover. Provided a point of difference that helped Melbourne make the 1954 Grand Final and win the next two flags before he turned 21.
He became … Footy's most iconic figure. An official Legend, an AFL Team of the Century member, he won six premierships (two as captain) and two best and fairests before sensationally joining Carlton as captain-coach and leading the Blues to two flags. Later took North Melbourne to its first two premierships.
Tony Lockett and Ron Barassi were brought together for a brief time at the Swans. Picture: AFL Photos
Bob Skilton
DOB: November 8, 1938
Career: South Melbourne 1956-71
At 20 he was … a brilliant, courageous rover who'd won a Brownlow Medal, two club best and fairests, a club goalkicking award (with 60) and six Victorian selections.
He became … a three-time Brownlow medallist and the winner of a record nine club best and fairests. An official Legend who selected in the AFL's Team of the Century. Also coached the Swans and Melbourne.
Kevin Bartlett
DOB: March 6, 1947
Career: Richmond 1965-83
At 20 he was … a flyweight rover who won a best and fairest in the Tigers' premiership year of 1967 after averaging 20.7 kicks and slotting three goals in the Grand Final against Geelong.
He became … the first player to reach 400 games (403 to be precise), along with an official Legend, a five-time best and fairest, five-time premiership player and Norm Smith medallist, who finished second and third in the Brownlow Medal. Also coached Richmond.
Kevin Bartlett's coaching stint at Richmond didn't come close to his playing feats. Picture: AFL Photos
Leigh Matthews
DOB: March 1, 1952
Career: Hawthorn 1969-85
At 20 he was … a pocket battleship who'd won back-to-back best and fairests, the first of which was in the Hawks' premiership year of 1971. Averaged 20 kicks and two goals a game in this period and also represented Victoria in both years.
He became … 'Lethal' Leigh - arguably the greatest player of all time. An official Legend who was selected in the AFL's Team of the Century after a career that encompassed 332 games, 915 goals, eight best and fairests, four flags, a Coleman Medal and six club goalkicking awards. A four-time premiership coach with Collingwood and the Brisbane Lions.
Tony Lockett
DOB: March 9, 1966
Career: St Kilda 1983-94, Sydney 1995-99 & 2002
At 20 he was … already a hulking presence and the most promising young forward in the competition after goal tallies of 77, 79 and 60 in St Kilda's wooden-spoon teams from 1984-86. Had also represented Victoria.
He became … the AFL's greatest goalkicker with 1360, including six centuries. A six-time Coleman medallist and three-time best and fairest winner, he won the 1987 Brownlow Medal at 21 and was later elevated to Legend status.
Michael Voss
DOB: July 7, 1975
Career: Brisbane 1992-2006
By the age of 20 he'd … become a brilliant midfield battering ram. The mature redhead was on track to tie for the 1996 Brownlow Medal and claim his second successive club best and fairest.
He'd eventually … be an inspirational triple premiership captain, five-time best and fairest winner, five-time All Australian (twice as skipper), dual AFL Players' Association MVP and Australian Football Hall of Fame inductee. Also coached the Lions from 2009-13.
Chris Judd
DOB: September 8, 1983
Career: West Coast 2002-07, Carlton 2008-15
By the age of 20 he'd … produced a brilliant 2004 season with the Eagles that would be rewarded with a Brownlow Medal and a club best and fairest, after finishing in the top three in the two preceding years. A unique contested-ball beast who burst clear of congestion with scintillating pace and evasion.
He'd eventually … become the only player to achieve captaincy, Brownlows, best and fairests, AFL Players' Association MVPs and All Australian selections (six in total) at two clubs. Won a second Brownlow at Carlton and ended up with five club best and fairests. Captained the Eagles to the 2006 premiership, a year after being the Norm Smith medallist in a losing team.
Ben Collins
October 16, 2016 8:00 AM
Marcus Bontemepelli already has the premiership medal that so many greats missed out on
IN A WHIRLWIND start to his AFL career, Marcus Bontempelli has attracted comparisons with with some of the biggest names in the history of the game.
The 2016 Western Bulldogs premiership hero's meteoric rise to superstar status has prompted some to ponder whether he is the best 20-year-old of all time.
To assist the discussion, we've compiled a shortlist of 14 players who were champions at 20. It's not a definitive list, but it's comprised entirely of Australian Football Hall of Famers, and almost entirely of official Legends, including icons such as Jack Dyer, John Coleman, Ted Whitten, Ron Barassi, Leigh Matthews and Tony Lockett.
Before their 21st birthdays many had won club best and fairests, and eight had claimed Brownlow Medals – Geelong's Edward 'Carji' Greeves, Collingwood's Albert 'Leeter' Collier, Fitzroy's Haydn Bunton and Denis 'Dinny' Ryan, Essendon's Dick Reynolds and Gavin Wanganeen, South Melbourne's Bob Skilton and Melbourne's Brian Wilson – while West Coast's Chris Judd and Brisbane's Michael Voss had both barely turned 21 when they took 'Charlie' home.
So 'The Bont' has fierce competition.
Before we take a closer look at some other terrific 20s, let's re-cap Bontempelli's remarkable achievements.
In just his third AFL season since the Bulldogs snaffled the former Northern Knights under-18s star with pick No.4 in the 2013 NAB AFL Draft, the tall midfielder enjoyed a 2016 season that has already entered Bulldog folklore.
After finishing third in the Dogs' best and fairest last year at 19, Bontempelli won the club award in a premiership year - something of a gold standard for footballers. And he did it easily, receiving 319 votes while his nearest teammate Dale Morris managed 248, as the youngster helped pilot the Dogs to their first flag in 62 years.
The precocious left-footer, who was also selected in the All Australian team for the first time, was the youngest club champion in a premiership team since Leigh Matthews' effort at Hawthorn in 1971.
Youngest best and fairest winners in premiership years
Age
Player
Club
Season
19y, 207d
Leigh Matthews
Hawthorn
1971
20y, 81d
Albert Collier
Collingwood
1929
20y, 201d
Kevin Bartlett
Richmond
1967
20y, 305d
John Coleman
Essendon
1949
20y, 312d
Marcus Bontempelli
Western Bulldogs
2016
20y, 364d
Harry Collier
Collingwood
1928
• Age measured to Grand Final day.
• Since 1988, Richmond has listed Jack Dyer as its 1932 best and fairest winner (when he was just 18 years and 320 days), but exhaustive research by club historians Rhett Bartlett and Trevor Ruddell has failed to reveal any evidence of this accolade.
Regardless of how Bontempelli measures up among the top 20-year-olds in history, he seems destined for similar greatness, which he'd no doubt take in his smooth stride.
TERRIFIC 20-YEAR-OLDS
Peter Burns
DOB: January 5, 1866
Career: South Melbourne 1885-1891 (VFA), Geelong 1892-96 (VFA) & 1897-1902 (VFL)
At 20 he was … arguably the biggest name in the game. The previous year, as a 19-year-old in 1885, he'd left Ballarat Imperial to join South Melbourne, which he immediately lifted to a premiership team, prompting The Australasian to hail him as the player of the season.
He became … 'Peter The Great' – the code's first superstar, its first 300-gamer and one of the greatest players of the game's first 50 years. Won four VFA flags with South and was the first captain of a VFL representative team.
Dick Lee
DOB: March 19, 1889
Career: Collingwood 1906-1922
At 20 he was … the best sharpshooter in the VFL, having topped the League goalkicking table in three successive seasons to draw within just 20 goals of the all-time goals record.
He became … a goalkicking legend. A longtime holder of the League's goals (707) record, the three-time premiership player led the competition goalkicking a record eight times (10 if we include finals) and was later inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame.
Bob Pratt
DOB: August 31, 1912
Career: South Melbourne 1930-39 & 1946
At 20 he was … the most spectacular high-marking forward in the competition. Kicked 71 goals in 17 games in 1932 and, before his 21st birthday the following season, had piled on 85 in 13 games en route to his first century and a premiership.
He became … a record-breaking goalkicker and an official Legend. Amassed three successive, League-topping centuries, including what remains a record of 150 in 1934, matched by only Hawthorn's Peter Hudson in 1971.
Haydn Bunton
DOB: July 5, 1911
Career: Fitzroy 1931-37 & 1942, Subiaco 1938-41, Port Adelaide 1945
At 20 he was … captain and well on the way to his second Brownlow Medal in just his second season. The seemingly unstoppable rover also represented Victoria in both seasons, averaging 31.5 kicks and 10.5 marks in two games.
He became … the only man to win three Brownlow and three Sandover Medals, and would later achieve Legend status and a place in the AFL's Team of the Century.
Jack Dyer
DOB: November 15, 1913
Career: Richmond 1931-49
At 20 he was … already one of the most explosive and feared players in the competition. At 18, the ruckman/forward played just 10 games but received the equal-most Brownlow Medal votes for his team (equal-fifth overall) in the premiership year of 1932, and represented Victoria. If not for injury that year, he'd have played in Grand Finals in each of his first four seasons.
He became … the famed 'Captain Blood'. Played a then-record 312 games, was a long-term captain-coach/coach, won two flags and an equal club-record five best and fairests (see table above), was selected in the AFL's Team of the Century, became a Legend in the Australian Football Hall of Fame and was also a footy media megastar.
Jack Dyer, seen here at the MCG in 1999, has few equals in Richmond folklore. Picture: AFL Photos
Dick Reynolds
DOB: June 20, 1915
Career: Essendon 1933-51
At 20 he was … one of the VFL's best rovers, finishing equal-seventh in the Brownlow Medal in his debut season at 18, winning the medal the next year, finishing equal-fifth in his third season and in 1936 was on his way to another top-10 placing along with a second club best and fairest.
He became … known as 'King Richard', played a then-League record of 320 games, won three Brownlows and an equal club record of seven best and fairests, captain-coached/coached the Bombers to 12 Grand Finals for four premierships, and earned Legend status and a spot in the AFL's Team of the Century.
Des Fothergill
DOB: July 15, 1920
Career: Collingwood 1937-40 and 1945-47
At 20 he was … a Brownlow medallist and a three-time club best and fairest winner, twice in teams that finished runner-up. In the 1938 finals series, the powerhouse rover/forward tallied 6.1 from 28 kicks in a semi-final, 5.0 from 26 kicks in the preliminary final, and eventual premier Carlton was relieved to keep him to 20 kicks and 4.3 in the Grand Final.
He became … a shock defector to VFA club Williamstown on a lucrative deal, later returning to the Pies where he continued to star from 1945-47, topping the League goalkicking in 1946. Selected in Collingwood's Team of the Century and was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame.
John Coleman
DOB: November 23, 1928
Career: Essendon 1949-54
At 20 he was … and remains the only player to kick 100 goals in his first season. The high-leaping spearhead bagged a record 12 goals on debut and was a key to Essendon's premiership side that season.
He became … one of the most magical players in history, and the full-forward in the AFL's Team of the Century. The official Legend booted 537 goals in just 98 games, winning two flags and leading the League goalkicking in each of his five completed seasons, before a knee injury ended his career at 25. Later coached the Bombers to two premierships.
On top of his goalkicking feats, John Coleman coached the Dons to a pair of flags. Picture: AFL Photos
Ted Whitten
DOB: July 27, 1933
Career: Footscray 1951-70
At 20 he was … A dynamic centre half-back who would soon be voted club champion in the Bulldogs' first premiership year. Had been their best finals player the previous season.
He became … 'Mr Football' - one of the game's greatest players and ambassadors. A true utility who could play in any key position, Whitten played a then League record 321 games, won a then equal club record five best and fairests, and was recognised with official Legend status and selection in the AFL's Team of the Century.
Ron Barassi
DOB: February 27, 1936
Career: Melbourne 1953-64, Carlton 1965-69
At 20 he was … a unique player later described as the game's first ruck-rover. Provided a point of difference that helped Melbourne make the 1954 Grand Final and win the next two flags before he turned 21.
He became … Footy's most iconic figure. An official Legend, an AFL Team of the Century member, he won six premierships (two as captain) and two best and fairests before sensationally joining Carlton as captain-coach and leading the Blues to two flags. Later took North Melbourne to its first two premierships.
Tony Lockett and Ron Barassi were brought together for a brief time at the Swans. Picture: AFL Photos
Bob Skilton
DOB: November 8, 1938
Career: South Melbourne 1956-71
At 20 he was … a brilliant, courageous rover who'd won a Brownlow Medal, two club best and fairests, a club goalkicking award (with 60) and six Victorian selections.
He became … a three-time Brownlow medallist and the winner of a record nine club best and fairests. An official Legend who selected in the AFL's Team of the Century. Also coached the Swans and Melbourne.
Kevin Bartlett
DOB: March 6, 1947
Career: Richmond 1965-83
At 20 he was … a flyweight rover who won a best and fairest in the Tigers' premiership year of 1967 after averaging 20.7 kicks and slotting three goals in the Grand Final against Geelong.
He became … the first player to reach 400 games (403 to be precise), along with an official Legend, a five-time best and fairest, five-time premiership player and Norm Smith medallist, who finished second and third in the Brownlow Medal. Also coached Richmond.
Kevin Bartlett's coaching stint at Richmond didn't come close to his playing feats. Picture: AFL Photos
Leigh Matthews
DOB: March 1, 1952
Career: Hawthorn 1969-85
At 20 he was … a pocket battleship who'd won back-to-back best and fairests, the first of which was in the Hawks' premiership year of 1971. Averaged 20 kicks and two goals a game in this period and also represented Victoria in both years.
He became … 'Lethal' Leigh - arguably the greatest player of all time. An official Legend who was selected in the AFL's Team of the Century after a career that encompassed 332 games, 915 goals, eight best and fairests, four flags, a Coleman Medal and six club goalkicking awards. A four-time premiership coach with Collingwood and the Brisbane Lions.
Tony Lockett
DOB: March 9, 1966
Career: St Kilda 1983-94, Sydney 1995-99 & 2002
At 20 he was … already a hulking presence and the most promising young forward in the competition after goal tallies of 77, 79 and 60 in St Kilda's wooden-spoon teams from 1984-86. Had also represented Victoria.
He became … the AFL's greatest goalkicker with 1360, including six centuries. A six-time Coleman medallist and three-time best and fairest winner, he won the 1987 Brownlow Medal at 21 and was later elevated to Legend status.
Michael Voss
DOB: July 7, 1975
Career: Brisbane 1992-2006
By the age of 20 he'd … become a brilliant midfield battering ram. The mature redhead was on track to tie for the 1996 Brownlow Medal and claim his second successive club best and fairest.
He'd eventually … be an inspirational triple premiership captain, five-time best and fairest winner, five-time All Australian (twice as skipper), dual AFL Players' Association MVP and Australian Football Hall of Fame inductee. Also coached the Lions from 2009-13.
Chris Judd
DOB: September 8, 1983
Career: West Coast 2002-07, Carlton 2008-15
By the age of 20 he'd … produced a brilliant 2004 season with the Eagles that would be rewarded with a Brownlow Medal and a club best and fairest, after finishing in the top three in the two preceding years. A unique contested-ball beast who burst clear of congestion with scintillating pace and evasion.
He'd eventually … become the only player to achieve captaincy, Brownlows, best and fairests, AFL Players' Association MVPs and All Australian selections (six in total) at two clubs. Won a second Brownlow at Carlton and ended up with five club best and fairests. Captained the Eagles to the 2006 premiership, a year after being the Norm Smith medallist in a losing team.
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Norm Smith Medallist
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I hate this articles. It just gives people in the media ammunition if he starts to struggle. It just adds so much pressure on the kid.Is 'the Bont' the best 20-year-old we've seen?
Ben Collins
October 16, 2016 8:00 AM
Marcus Bontemepelli already has the premiership medal that so many greats missed out on
IN A WHIRLWIND start to his AFL career, Marcus Bontempelli has attracted comparisons with with some of the biggest names in the history of the game.
The 2016 Western Bulldogs premiership hero's meteoric rise to superstar status has prompted some to ponder whether he is the best 20-year-old of all time.
To assist the discussion, we've compiled a shortlist of 14 players who were champions at 20. It's not a definitive list, but it's comprised entirely of Australian Football Hall of Famers, and almost entirely of official Legends, including icons such as Jack Dyer, John Coleman, Ted Whitten, Ron Barassi, Leigh Matthews and Tony Lockett.
Before their 21st birthdays many had won club best and fairests, and eight had claimed Brownlow Medals – Geelong's Edward 'Carji' Greeves, Collingwood's Albert 'Leeter' Collier, Fitzroy's Haydn Bunton and Denis 'Dinny' Ryan, Essendon's Dick Reynolds and Gavin Wanganeen, South Melbourne's Bob Skilton and Melbourne's Brian Wilson – while West Coast's Chris Judd and Brisbane's Michael Voss had both barely turned 21 when they took 'Charlie' home.
So 'The Bont' has fierce competition.
Before we take a closer look at some other terrific 20s, let's re-cap Bontempelli's remarkable achievements.
In just his third AFL season since the Bulldogs snaffled the former Northern Knights under-18s star with pick No.4 in the 2013 NAB AFL Draft, the tall midfielder enjoyed a 2016 season that has already entered Bulldog folklore.
After finishing third in the Dogs' best and fairest last year at 19, Bontempelli won the club award in a premiership year - something of a gold standard for footballers. And he did it easily, receiving 319 votes while his nearest teammate Dale Morris managed 248, as the youngster helped pilot the Dogs to their first flag in 62 years.
The precocious left-footer, who was also selected in the All Australian team for the first time, was the youngest club champion in a premiership team since Leigh Matthews' effort at Hawthorn in 1971.
Youngest best and fairest winners in premiership years
Age
Player
Club
Season
19y, 207d
Leigh Matthews
Hawthorn
1971
20y, 81d
Albert Collier
Collingwood
1929
20y, 201d
Kevin Bartlett
Richmond
1967
20y, 305d
John Coleman
Essendon
1949
20y, 312d
Marcus Bontempelli
Western Bulldogs
2016
20y, 364d
Harry Collier
Collingwood
1928
• Age measured to Grand Final day.
• Since 1988, Richmond has listed Jack Dyer as its 1932 best and fairest winner (when he was just 18 years and 320 days), but exhaustive research by club historians Rhett Bartlett and Trevor Ruddell has failed to reveal any evidence of this accolade.
Regardless of how Bontempelli measures up among the top 20-year-olds in history, he seems destined for similar greatness, which he'd no doubt take in his smooth stride.
TERRIFIC 20-YEAR-OLDS
Peter Burns
DOB: January 5, 1866
Career: South Melbourne 1885-1891 (VFA), Geelong 1892-96 (VFA) & 1897-1902 (VFL)
At 20 he was … arguably the biggest name in the game. The previous year, as a 19-year-old in 1885, he'd left Ballarat Imperial to join South Melbourne, which he immediately lifted to a premiership team, prompting The Australasian to hail him as the player of the season.
He became … 'Peter The Great' – the code's first superstar, its first 300-gamer and one of the greatest players of the game's first 50 years. Won four VFA flags with South and was the first captain of a VFL representative team.
Dick Lee
DOB: March 19, 1889
Career: Collingwood 1906-1922
At 20 he was … the best sharpshooter in the VFL, having topped the League goalkicking table in three successive seasons to draw within just 20 goals of the all-time goals record.
He became … a goalkicking legend. A longtime holder of the League's goals (707) record, the three-time premiership player led the competition goalkicking a record eight times (10 if we include finals) and was later inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame.
Bob Pratt
DOB: August 31, 1912
Career: South Melbourne 1930-39 & 1946
At 20 he was … the most spectacular high-marking forward in the competition. Kicked 71 goals in 17 games in 1932 and, before his 21st birthday the following season, had piled on 85 in 13 games en route to his first century and a premiership.
He became … a record-breaking goalkicker and an official Legend. Amassed three successive, League-topping centuries, including what remains a record of 150 in 1934, matched by only Hawthorn's Peter Hudson in 1971.
Haydn Bunton
DOB: July 5, 1911
Career: Fitzroy 1931-37 & 1942, Subiaco 1938-41, Port Adelaide 1945
At 20 he was … captain and well on the way to his second Brownlow Medal in just his second season. The seemingly unstoppable rover also represented Victoria in both seasons, averaging 31.5 kicks and 10.5 marks in two games.
He became … the only man to win three Brownlow and three Sandover Medals, and would later achieve Legend status and a place in the AFL's Team of the Century.
Jack Dyer
DOB: November 15, 1913
Career: Richmond 1931-49
At 20 he was … already one of the most explosive and feared players in the competition. At 18, the ruckman/forward played just 10 games but received the equal-most Brownlow Medal votes for his team (equal-fifth overall) in the premiership year of 1932, and represented Victoria. If not for injury that year, he'd have played in Grand Finals in each of his first four seasons.
He became … the famed 'Captain Blood'. Played a then-record 312 games, was a long-term captain-coach/coach, won two flags and an equal club-record five best and fairests (see table above), was selected in the AFL's Team of the Century, became a Legend in the Australian Football Hall of Fame and was also a footy media megastar.
Jack Dyer, seen here at the MCG in 1999, has few equals in Richmond folklore. Picture: AFL Photos
Dick Reynolds
DOB: June 20, 1915
Career: Essendon 1933-51
At 20 he was … one of the VFL's best rovers, finishing equal-seventh in the Brownlow Medal in his debut season at 18, winning the medal the next year, finishing equal-fifth in his third season and in 1936 was on his way to another top-10 placing along with a second club best and fairest.
He became … known as 'King Richard', played a then-League record of 320 games, won three Brownlows and an equal club record of seven best and fairests, captain-coached/coached the Bombers to 12 Grand Finals for four premierships, and earned Legend status and a spot in the AFL's Team of the Century.
Des Fothergill
DOB: July 15, 1920
Career: Collingwood 1937-40 and 1945-47
At 20 he was … a Brownlow medallist and a three-time club best and fairest winner, twice in teams that finished runner-up. In the 1938 finals series, the powerhouse rover/forward tallied 6.1 from 28 kicks in a semi-final, 5.0 from 26 kicks in the preliminary final, and eventual premier Carlton was relieved to keep him to 20 kicks and 4.3 in the Grand Final.
He became … a shock defector to VFA club Williamstown on a lucrative deal, later returning to the Pies where he continued to star from 1945-47, topping the League goalkicking in 1946. Selected in Collingwood's Team of the Century and was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame.
John Coleman
DOB: November 23, 1928
Career: Essendon 1949-54
At 20 he was … and remains the only player to kick 100 goals in his first season. The high-leaping spearhead bagged a record 12 goals on debut and was a key to Essendon's premiership side that season.
He became … one of the most magical players in history, and the full-forward in the AFL's Team of the Century. The official Legend booted 537 goals in just 98 games, winning two flags and leading the League goalkicking in each of his five completed seasons, before a knee injury ended his career at 25. Later coached the Bombers to two premierships.
On top of his goalkicking feats, John Coleman coached the Dons to a pair of flags. Picture: AFL Photos
Ted Whitten
DOB: July 27, 1933
Career: Footscray 1951-70
At 20 he was … A dynamic centre half-back who would soon be voted club champion in the Bulldogs' first premiership year. Had been their best finals player the previous season.
He became … 'Mr Football' - one of the game's greatest players and ambassadors. A true utility who could play in any key position, Whitten played a then League record 321 games, won a then equal club record five best and fairests, and was recognised with official Legend status and selection in the AFL's Team of the Century.
Ron Barassi
DOB: February 27, 1936
Career: Melbourne 1953-64, Carlton 1965-69
At 20 he was … a unique player later described as the game's first ruck-rover. Provided a point of difference that helped Melbourne make the 1954 Grand Final and win the next two flags before he turned 21.
He became … Footy's most iconic figure. An official Legend, an AFL Team of the Century member, he won six premierships (two as captain) and two best and fairests before sensationally joining Carlton as captain-coach and leading the Blues to two flags. Later took North Melbourne to its first two premierships.
Tony Lockett and Ron Barassi were brought together for a brief time at the Swans. Picture: AFL Photos
Bob Skilton
DOB: November 8, 1938
Career: South Melbourne 1956-71
At 20 he was … a brilliant, courageous rover who'd won a Brownlow Medal, two club best and fairests, a club goalkicking award (with 60) and six Victorian selections.
He became … a three-time Brownlow medallist and the winner of a record nine club best and fairests. An official Legend who selected in the AFL's Team of the Century. Also coached the Swans and Melbourne.
Kevin Bartlett
DOB: March 6, 1947
Career: Richmond 1965-83
At 20 he was … a flyweight rover who won a best and fairest in the Tigers' premiership year of 1967 after averaging 20.7 kicks and slotting three goals in the Grand Final against Geelong.
He became … the first player to reach 400 games (403 to be precise), along with an official Legend, a five-time best and fairest, five-time premiership player and Norm Smith medallist, who finished second and third in the Brownlow Medal. Also coached Richmond.
Kevin Bartlett's coaching stint at Richmond didn't come close to his playing feats. Picture: AFL Photos
Leigh Matthews
DOB: March 1, 1952
Career: Hawthorn 1969-85
At 20 he was … a pocket battleship who'd won back-to-back best and fairests, the first of which was in the Hawks' premiership year of 1971. Averaged 20 kicks and two goals a game in this period and also represented Victoria in both years.
He became … 'Lethal' Leigh - arguably the greatest player of all time. An official Legend who was selected in the AFL's Team of the Century after a career that encompassed 332 games, 915 goals, eight best and fairests, four flags, a Coleman Medal and six club goalkicking awards. A four-time premiership coach with Collingwood and the Brisbane Lions.
Tony Lockett
DOB: March 9, 1966
Career: St Kilda 1983-94, Sydney 1995-99 & 2002
At 20 he was … already a hulking presence and the most promising young forward in the competition after goal tallies of 77, 79 and 60 in St Kilda's wooden-spoon teams from 1984-86. Had also represented Victoria.
He became … the AFL's greatest goalkicker with 1360, including six centuries. A six-time Coleman medallist and three-time best and fairest winner, he won the 1987 Brownlow Medal at 21 and was later elevated to Legend status.
Michael Voss
DOB: July 7, 1975
Career: Brisbane 1992-2006
By the age of 20 he'd … become a brilliant midfield battering ram. The mature redhead was on track to tie for the 1996 Brownlow Medal and claim his second successive club best and fairest.
He'd eventually … be an inspirational triple premiership captain, five-time best and fairest winner, five-time All Australian (twice as skipper), dual AFL Players' Association MVP and Australian Football Hall of Fame inductee. Also coached the Lions from 2009-13.
Chris Judd
DOB: September 8, 1983
Career: West Coast 2002-07, Carlton 2008-15
By the age of 20 he'd … produced a brilliant 2004 season with the Eagles that would be rewarded with a Brownlow Medal and a club best and fairest, after finishing in the top three in the two preceding years. A unique contested-ball beast who burst clear of congestion with scintillating pace and evasion.
He'd eventually … become the only player to achieve captaincy, Brownlows, best and fairests, AFL Players' Association MVPs and All Australian selections (six in total) at two clubs. Won a second Brownlow at Carlton and ended up with five club best and fairests. Captained the Eagles to the 2006 premiership, a year after being the Norm Smith medallist in a losing team.
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