■ The AFL’s father-son rule is one of the last remaining remnants of the past that excites loyal footy fans. Who doesn’t want to see the son of a famous clubman run out in the same jumper, sing the same song and continue the family business? The AFL and its newer clubs, that’s who. The rule has been changed so many times over the years that it’s becoming harder and harder for this wonderful tradition to continue.
I understand that times have changed but can we keep one small, non-corporate item for us fans? The new AFL boss says he wants the game to go back to the fans and supporters and, trust me, this is one area all footy fans agree on. I wrote two books about it because I think it’s a unique aspect of our game that has nothing to do with money; it’s all about history. Look at the names currently playing, Watson, Cloke, Wallis, Liberatore, Bews, Hawkins, Moore, Fletcher and McDonald. Great to see Mitch Wallis sign with the Bulldogs for another three years, by the way. Like father Steve, I have no doubt he’ll be a captain of the club.
■ Our WRFL-88.9 WYN FM radio coverage went to Caroline Springs for the big Division Two clash with West Footscray on Saturday. The game turned out to be a fizzer, with West winning easily.
Hawthorn premiership player and Norm Smith medallist Brian Lake is a Caroline Springs resident and is heavily involved with the club. It was great to catch up with Brian and have a pre-match chat for our radio coverage. When his schedule allows, Brian hosts a matchday coterie to raise money for the club. But it all turned a little sour last week when the blustery conditions caused the marquee to come adrift from its moorings and take off. Thankfully, it was reeled in by those at the ground before any damage was done, although it did make for some interesting radio as the marquee blocked our view for several minutes.
■ Netball royalty comes to town on Saturday, August 1 with Melbourne Vixens and Australian Diamonds star Madi Robinson hosting a free NetSetGo ‘Bring a Friend’ Fun Day at Hoppers Crossing Junior Netball Association on the corner of Mossfiel Drive and Heaths Road, Hoppers Crossing.
The event runs from 10.30am until 12.30pm and is open for children from 5-10. Bookings are essential. Call Darren on 0413 607 645 or email mhellmann@bigpond.com.
Any news, let me know on email kevin@howdypartnersmedia.com.au. Follow me on Twitter, plus check out the Howdy Partners Media website as well.
