So Tiger Woods, the near perfect sportsman isn’t so perfect after all. I guess we shouldn’t be surprised though, after all the man is a professional sportsman, not a religious or community leader. He hasn’t deliberately sought out a high profile; it comes with the territory of success in professional sports. As a society we love it when the mighty fall, the tall poppy syndrome is alive and well in the 21st century. Tiger has proved himself to be fallible, a man in the most basic way with faults and failings like the rest of us and no amount of money or sporting success can change that.
Now I’m not defending his actions, in fact I find it very disappointing; however no more disappointing than I would for any other individual. I do though feel for the stress and pain these actions will now bring him and his family. Tiger, via his website, has bemoaned the lack of respect for his privacy as this incident has unfolded. Quite rightly he mentioned that “Personal sins should not require press releases and problems within a family shouldn't have to mean public confessions”. Unfortunatley for Tiger and all other successful professional sportspeople, one of the first human rights to disappear in line with a higher public profile is that of personal privacy.
The force field of invincibility and professionalism that has surrounded Woods during his ascention to the throne of world golf is gone. Even the multimillion dollar Woods PR machine couldn’t put a posititive spin on this incident. As the week continues we will no doubt hear more revelations about the not so personal life of the worlds most famous sportsman. Perhaps Tiger should listen to the advice of one of his fellow professional golfers who himself has had a less than perfect public profile. Asked during a practice round for this weeks Australian Open to comment on the Woods drama, John Daly simply replied that “Tiger should just tell the truth”.
A caller to a talkback radio station this week noted that Gilllette will be be praying Roger Federer doesn’t have any skeletons in his closet. The company that invested millions of dollars in securing perhaps the worlds three most famous sportspeople, Woods, Federer and French soccer star Thierry Henry to represent its brand. Preceding the Woods incident, Henry’s now infamous ‘Hand of Frog’ incident in the world cup qualifier against Ireland has shown that even the best of the best are vunerable.
Perhaps the reason this incident has promoted so much discussion is that Golf is considered a gentlemans sport and Tiger has always presented himself as the ultimate gentleman, professional, available and courteous. Woods will bounce back. It’s likely he will remain the premier golfer on the planet for many years to come, however his image will forever be tarnished by this incident. Regardless of whether or not sportspeople wish to be considered role models for society is irrelevent, THEY ARE. Simply by virtue of the popularity of their field of excellence, successful sportsman will continue to be placed on a pedastal by the masses that worship their sport. Tiger Woods is neither the first nor the last big name to experience the negative side to success in sport.
Monday's Expert
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
An Eggcelent Sunday Sermon
As the sun rises on a lazy Sunday morning and I rub the sleep from my eyes, my thoughts turn to a Sunday morning indulgence that I sometimes allow myself. A simple plan, eggs, bacon, the Sunday paper and an obligation free morning. As I assemble the troops for my attack on the tastebuds, I notice something odd, not glaringly obvious but definitely a little off. My dozen eggs are not a dozen after all. Without any fanfare, notification or packaging modifications I have unwillingly purchased a carton of TEN eggs. That’s right, TEN eggs. Now I know what you are thinking, who cares? So you’ve missed out on a couple of eggs big deal! But it really got me thinking.
I purchased this product with a dozen eggs in mind, a lifelong, universally accepted volume of an everyday product. It is packed in an identical form to the standard dozen eggs albeit slightly shorter in length. It is positioned on the Supermarket shelves around or directly within the one dozen egg cartons. The only logical conclusion that I can draw from this travesty is that the producers of these eggs didn’t want me to realise that I was buying TEN eggs. Maybe just maybe if it looks the same costs the same and sits in the same spot in the supermarket I won’t notice that I just got conned out of two eggs.
Lets not hang draw and quarter the egg producers of Australia just yet though, they are certainly not alone in these questionable packaging processes. There was a time when I was able to order a stubby or can of beer and know I was drinking 375ml of beer. But no beer producers of the world unite because you too are guilty of participating in this dirty little secret, 330ml, 345ml, 355ml, are all volumes that we now see sold in our liquor outlets as stubbies. I’m still waiting for the 380ml stubby sold at the same price (wishful thinking maybe). Smaller biscuits, less cereal, thinner bread slices, and a seemingly infinite choice of package sizes for consumers to choose from beg the question WHY?
Simple really, to distract us just long enough so that we don’t notice the price. To make it so difficult to work out what we are getting for our money that we don’t bother to question it. So what can we make of this “Camouflage Packaging” technique, when did food packagers decide that the beast way to increase profit margins was to steal from the very consumers that support their existence. Are these companies so devoid of new marketing ideas that the only way they feel they can make ends meet is to fleece there most loyal of customers.
So what does this all mean, what can we take from this Sunday morning sermon? Maybe it’s that loyalty is dead, just because you’ve eaten the same cereal for 35 years, don’t expect to get 15 breakfasts out of you next box just because you always have. Maybe it’s, beware the fancy new package. Whatever it is that old saying we all used to love, “the customer comes first” means little today. The number one person for businesses today is the shareholder, first, second, and last.
Anyway it’s time to get cracking on that breakfast, excuse me while I open my carton of TEN eggs!
Mondays Expert.
I purchased this product with a dozen eggs in mind, a lifelong, universally accepted volume of an everyday product. It is packed in an identical form to the standard dozen eggs albeit slightly shorter in length. It is positioned on the Supermarket shelves around or directly within the one dozen egg cartons. The only logical conclusion that I can draw from this travesty is that the producers of these eggs didn’t want me to realise that I was buying TEN eggs. Maybe just maybe if it looks the same costs the same and sits in the same spot in the supermarket I won’t notice that I just got conned out of two eggs.
Lets not hang draw and quarter the egg producers of Australia just yet though, they are certainly not alone in these questionable packaging processes. There was a time when I was able to order a stubby or can of beer and know I was drinking 375ml of beer. But no beer producers of the world unite because you too are guilty of participating in this dirty little secret, 330ml, 345ml, 355ml, are all volumes that we now see sold in our liquor outlets as stubbies. I’m still waiting for the 380ml stubby sold at the same price (wishful thinking maybe). Smaller biscuits, less cereal, thinner bread slices, and a seemingly infinite choice of package sizes for consumers to choose from beg the question WHY?
Simple really, to distract us just long enough so that we don’t notice the price. To make it so difficult to work out what we are getting for our money that we don’t bother to question it. So what can we make of this “Camouflage Packaging” technique, when did food packagers decide that the beast way to increase profit margins was to steal from the very consumers that support their existence. Are these companies so devoid of new marketing ideas that the only way they feel they can make ends meet is to fleece there most loyal of customers.
So what does this all mean, what can we take from this Sunday morning sermon? Maybe it’s that loyalty is dead, just because you’ve eaten the same cereal for 35 years, don’t expect to get 15 breakfasts out of you next box just because you always have. Maybe it’s, beware the fancy new package. Whatever it is that old saying we all used to love, “the customer comes first” means little today. The number one person for businesses today is the shareholder, first, second, and last.
Anyway it’s time to get cracking on that breakfast, excuse me while I open my carton of TEN eggs!
Mondays Expert.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Farewell Richoman
Friday the 13th, black Friday, many fear it as a day filled with bad luck and bearing bad news. For Richmond supporters Friday the 13th 2009 is such a day. The day when Punt Road’s favourite son calls time on one of the most talked about football careers in the history of Australian Rules football.
Richo the footballer was an enigma, which is probably the only description that would receive uniform agreement from fans and players alike. At times he was the most frustrating of players to watch while at others (most others) he was simply remarkable. Like round 21 1996, when he tore apart the hapless Fitzroy side with 28 possessions, 21 marks, and kicked 7 goals 5 for the afternoon. As coached Robert Walls watched his dominant half forward run riot that day its no that wonder years later as a commentator he remarked that Richo would kick 15 goals in a game one day.
The 15 goals may never have come but tigers fans need not have worried, Richo had so much more to give. Often maligned for his poor disposal, in particular his often less than perfect goal kicking, Richo’s pure ball getting ability is what set him apart from all but a few other key forwards that have graced the AFL fields throughout the country. What was often neglected by his critics was simply the amount of ball he won. Focusing on the shots at goal he missed, he was rarely given credit for the sheer amount of marks (in particular contested marks) he took that led to additional scoring opportunities for himself and his team mates.
Richo wore his heart on his sleave. He was criticised often in his career for his poor body language and berating of team mates when things didn’t go his way. While some of it was justified, it exemplified the passion the man invested in his performance and that of his team. Perhaps if Richmond had more players with his passion over the last 17 years the club would be in a different position.
All tigers fans will have differing favourite memories of Matthew Richardson, however its hard to believe many of them won’t be feeling a sense of loss at this news. Throughout Richo’s 17 years at Punt Road, Richmond has been a poor football club and many fans have continued to show up to the MCG and buy their annual memberships because of Matthew Richardson.
One thing is for sure, watching Richmond from now on will not be the same. No longer will the chant of “RichoRichoman” ring out from the Punt Road end of the “G”, no longer will the faithful scream “yeah” after a classic Richo grab only to mutter “arrrrh” as he misses the shot from point blank range.
Richo leaves the games as humbly as he played it during his glorious career at Punt Road. No fanfare, no final season tour, no farewell game. I’m sure we’ll get the chance to wave goodbye as he does a lap of his favourite ground sometime in 2010 and tiger fans will look forward to that day.
For me, a lifelong Richmond fan, while I knew this day would come, I still feel a sense of loss. My favourite player has gone however his feats will never be forgotten. Thanks for the memories Richo, I’m sure I’ll forever remember those great calls of “RICHO” as you pulled down yet another screamer.
Mondays Expert
Richo the footballer was an enigma, which is probably the only description that would receive uniform agreement from fans and players alike. At times he was the most frustrating of players to watch while at others (most others) he was simply remarkable. Like round 21 1996, when he tore apart the hapless Fitzroy side with 28 possessions, 21 marks, and kicked 7 goals 5 for the afternoon. As coached Robert Walls watched his dominant half forward run riot that day its no that wonder years later as a commentator he remarked that Richo would kick 15 goals in a game one day.
The 15 goals may never have come but tigers fans need not have worried, Richo had so much more to give. Often maligned for his poor disposal, in particular his often less than perfect goal kicking, Richo’s pure ball getting ability is what set him apart from all but a few other key forwards that have graced the AFL fields throughout the country. What was often neglected by his critics was simply the amount of ball he won. Focusing on the shots at goal he missed, he was rarely given credit for the sheer amount of marks (in particular contested marks) he took that led to additional scoring opportunities for himself and his team mates.
Richo wore his heart on his sleave. He was criticised often in his career for his poor body language and berating of team mates when things didn’t go his way. While some of it was justified, it exemplified the passion the man invested in his performance and that of his team. Perhaps if Richmond had more players with his passion over the last 17 years the club would be in a different position.
All tigers fans will have differing favourite memories of Matthew Richardson, however its hard to believe many of them won’t be feeling a sense of loss at this news. Throughout Richo’s 17 years at Punt Road, Richmond has been a poor football club and many fans have continued to show up to the MCG and buy their annual memberships because of Matthew Richardson.
One thing is for sure, watching Richmond from now on will not be the same. No longer will the chant of “RichoRichoman” ring out from the Punt Road end of the “G”, no longer will the faithful scream “yeah” after a classic Richo grab only to mutter “arrrrh” as he misses the shot from point blank range.
Richo leaves the games as humbly as he played it during his glorious career at Punt Road. No fanfare, no final season tour, no farewell game. I’m sure we’ll get the chance to wave goodbye as he does a lap of his favourite ground sometime in 2010 and tiger fans will look forward to that day.
For me, a lifelong Richmond fan, while I knew this day would come, I still feel a sense of loss. My favourite player has gone however his feats will never be forgotten. Thanks for the memories Richo, I’m sure I’ll forever remember those great calls of “RICHO” as you pulled down yet another screamer.
Mondays Expert
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Cats begin to secure place in History
Its always a risky business comparing successful teams from different eras. Many people are quick to use terms such as 'champion' and 'legend' to describe players and teams without real regard for the meaning of such terms. So, after 3 consecutive grand finals including 2 premierships does this Geelong side fit such lofty standards.
The simple answer is NO, not yet anyway.
This doesn't however mean they won't reach a level that compares them to the great teams of the past. The Brisbane Lions 4 consecutive Grand Final appearances and 3 consecutive premierships stands alone in the last 50 yrs of VFL/AFL football as the most successful era on paper if premierships are the measurements of success.
Step back in time and we see the great Melbourne era of 1954-1960, when the Demons appeared in 7 consecutive grand finals winning 5 premierships. Era's such as these create legitimate "legends of the game" such as Norm Smith and Ron Barassi, rather than just great players.
The Brisbane era too can claim at least one champion of the modern game in Michael Voss. Arguments could be made for the status of others such as Akermanis, Black and Brown among others but the status of the Lions as a champion team is undeniable.
So where does this leave the Cats of 2009, 2 flags, 3 grand finals, 65 wins to 10 losses in 3 years. It leaves them as a great team but certainly not the greatest team. One more premiership should see this club slip past the Lions in the historical pecking order of greatness.
And this club has another premiership in it at least. As the sun sets on season 2009 and the Cats deservedly soak up the adulation that comes with a premiership, I believe we can look forward to another successful season from the boys from Kardinia Park in 2010 and perhaps beyond.
According to the stats, the Cats may not be a legend team yet but that is the beauty of sport, they have time on their side. Minimal retirements beckon, minimal talk of salary cap issues and a list of players that seem to understand the unique opportunity they have within their grasp, suggest the run is far from over.
Who knows when this charmed run will finish for this group of Cats. Nobody knows, but when the dust finally settles and they return to the pack, what will history say about this era for the Geelong football club.
Only time will tell, however this punter at least thinks they may create history for the ages.
Mondays Expert
The simple answer is NO, not yet anyway.
This doesn't however mean they won't reach a level that compares them to the great teams of the past. The Brisbane Lions 4 consecutive Grand Final appearances and 3 consecutive premierships stands alone in the last 50 yrs of VFL/AFL football as the most successful era on paper if premierships are the measurements of success.
Step back in time and we see the great Melbourne era of 1954-1960, when the Demons appeared in 7 consecutive grand finals winning 5 premierships. Era's such as these create legitimate "legends of the game" such as Norm Smith and Ron Barassi, rather than just great players.
The Brisbane era too can claim at least one champion of the modern game in Michael Voss. Arguments could be made for the status of others such as Akermanis, Black and Brown among others but the status of the Lions as a champion team is undeniable.
So where does this leave the Cats of 2009, 2 flags, 3 grand finals, 65 wins to 10 losses in 3 years. It leaves them as a great team but certainly not the greatest team. One more premiership should see this club slip past the Lions in the historical pecking order of greatness.
And this club has another premiership in it at least. As the sun sets on season 2009 and the Cats deservedly soak up the adulation that comes with a premiership, I believe we can look forward to another successful season from the boys from Kardinia Park in 2010 and perhaps beyond.
According to the stats, the Cats may not be a legend team yet but that is the beauty of sport, they have time on their side. Minimal retirements beckon, minimal talk of salary cap issues and a list of players that seem to understand the unique opportunity they have within their grasp, suggest the run is far from over.
Who knows when this charmed run will finish for this group of Cats. Nobody knows, but when the dust finally settles and they return to the pack, what will history say about this era for the Geelong football club.
Only time will tell, however this punter at least thinks they may create history for the ages.
Mondays Expert
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
C'mon NRL get real time for McIntyre to go
For the second season in a row the NRL's final eight system has come into question. With a series of upsets in the 1st week of the finals, the vagaries of the McIntyre system have come clearly into focus. Congratulations must go to Parramatta and Brisbane for their impressive victories over higher ranked opponents in the 1st week of the finals, however the net result of those victory's was that both clubs received the opportunity to play a home final in week two over a significantly higher ranked opponent.
MADNESS I say!!
How can a team that spends 26 weeks battling to win the minor premiership lose one game and be forced to travel interstate to play the team that could only finish 6th in the same home and away season. This was the outcome for minor premiers St George who must be sitting back this weekend wondering how they are watching and not playing in a preliminary final.
The story is no better for the Gold Coast Titans, in an outstanding season for the fledgling club, the Titans managed to secure 3rd spot on the NRL table. Follow this result with a fighting loss to the revitalised Brisbane Broncos and the prize for all their hard work is a trip to Sydney to play the bottom ranked finalist Parramatta.
Again let me say congratulations to both the Eel's and the Bronco's. Both sides came into the finals with great momentum playing their best football at the right end of the season. There is a better than even prospect that these two hot teams will contest the 1st NRL grand final between the 6th and 8th place finishers in history.
But why the dream run? If we are not going to reward the teams with the premier finishing positions at the end of the home and away season why do we measure finishing positions at all.
The McIntyre system was developed by mathematician Ken McIntyre for the AFL in 1994 when the league adopted a final series with eight teams. It followed the leagues successful use of McIntyre's final four, five and six systems in previous seasons. The AFL dropped the system in 1999 after six seasons responding to widespread criticism by clubs. Ironically the NRL adopted the system in the same season and has used it ever since.
Supporters of the system for the NRL argue that the State of Origin Series effects the ability of some clubs to finish high in the final eight and the McIntyre system offer a chance for those teams to compete fairly in the finals.
What a load of CRAP!!
Club football and representative football are two different stages. Are we going to begin rewarding teams that make the finals despite missing players through injury? Perhaps we should let them play an extra player as well. These arguments just don't add up.
Lets face it NRL the McIntyre system is a joke, its time to dump it and adopt the same system as the AFL. A system that rewards those clubs that perform for the majority of the season not just a couple of weeks at the end.
Monday's Expert
MADNESS I say!!
How can a team that spends 26 weeks battling to win the minor premiership lose one game and be forced to travel interstate to play the team that could only finish 6th in the same home and away season. This was the outcome for minor premiers St George who must be sitting back this weekend wondering how they are watching and not playing in a preliminary final.
The story is no better for the Gold Coast Titans, in an outstanding season for the fledgling club, the Titans managed to secure 3rd spot on the NRL table. Follow this result with a fighting loss to the revitalised Brisbane Broncos and the prize for all their hard work is a trip to Sydney to play the bottom ranked finalist Parramatta.
Again let me say congratulations to both the Eel's and the Bronco's. Both sides came into the finals with great momentum playing their best football at the right end of the season. There is a better than even prospect that these two hot teams will contest the 1st NRL grand final between the 6th and 8th place finishers in history.
But why the dream run? If we are not going to reward the teams with the premier finishing positions at the end of the home and away season why do we measure finishing positions at all.
The McIntyre system was developed by mathematician Ken McIntyre for the AFL in 1994 when the league adopted a final series with eight teams. It followed the leagues successful use of McIntyre's final four, five and six systems in previous seasons. The AFL dropped the system in 1999 after six seasons responding to widespread criticism by clubs. Ironically the NRL adopted the system in the same season and has used it ever since.
Supporters of the system for the NRL argue that the State of Origin Series effects the ability of some clubs to finish high in the final eight and the McIntyre system offer a chance for those teams to compete fairly in the finals.
What a load of CRAP!!
Club football and representative football are two different stages. Are we going to begin rewarding teams that make the finals despite missing players through injury? Perhaps we should let them play an extra player as well. These arguments just don't add up.
Lets face it NRL the McIntyre system is a joke, its time to dump it and adopt the same system as the AFL. A system that rewards those clubs that perform for the majority of the season not just a couple of weeks at the end.
Monday's Expert
Monday, September 21, 2009
Charlie and Gary a perfect match
The midfielders medal or Brownlow as it is traditionally known has been run and won for another year and a more deserving winner couldn't have been found. Gary Ablett Jnr has been the dominant player in the competition for the last three years and after finishing 3rd and 4th in the last two seasons, Ablett has finally broken through to win football most prestigious individual honour.
The CV of Ablett continues to grow and comparisons between his career and that of his famous father are set to continue. Ablett Snr widely considered on of the games all time greats looks likely to be overshadowed by his equally talented son. Already Gary Jnr has a premiership and now a Brownlow medal in his trophy cabinet to out perform his father. The Brownlow victory comes on top of Ablett's third consecutive Players Association MVP Award and a priemiership on Saturday would finish the perfect season for the brilliant cat.
Ablett's consistency is what sets him apart from the competitions other elite midfielders. While he may lack the flair of his father he rarely plays a poor game. Ablett bolted away early in voting for the 2009 Brownlow polling in 10 of a possible 13 games played to open the season to open up a medal winning lead by Round 16. He finished the vote count as he began polling seven votes in the final three rounds to secure the victory.
Ablett's winning total of 30 votes placed him 8 votes clear of former Brownlow Medalist Chris Judd and confirmed the emphatic nature of the victory. Abletts victory will be a popular one with AFL fans and players confirming his position as the games premier player.
The CV of Ablett continues to grow and comparisons between his career and that of his famous father are set to continue. Ablett Snr widely considered on of the games all time greats looks likely to be overshadowed by his equally talented son. Already Gary Jnr has a premiership and now a Brownlow medal in his trophy cabinet to out perform his father. The Brownlow victory comes on top of Ablett's third consecutive Players Association MVP Award and a priemiership on Saturday would finish the perfect season for the brilliant cat.
Ablett's consistency is what sets him apart from the competitions other elite midfielders. While he may lack the flair of his father he rarely plays a poor game. Ablett bolted away early in voting for the 2009 Brownlow polling in 10 of a possible 13 games played to open the season to open up a medal winning lead by Round 16. He finished the vote count as he began polling seven votes in the final three rounds to secure the victory.
Ablett's winning total of 30 votes placed him 8 votes clear of former Brownlow Medalist Chris Judd and confirmed the emphatic nature of the victory. Abletts victory will be a popular one with AFL fans and players confirming his position as the games premier player.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
When too much sport is never enough.
The second weekend in July represents all that is great about being a sports fanatic in Australia. While the results so far may not have given us all the warm fuzzy feeling we desire going into a working week, many of us will still be rubbing the sleep from our eyes on Tuesday afternoon thanks to the sheer volume of elite sport that has graced our stadiums and TV sets this weekend.
As usual the NRL and AFL have provided many opportunities over the weekend for the purists of each code to obtain their weekly fix.
A Suncorp stadium double header on Friday night continued a poor week for Queensland league fans with both the Bronco’s and Titans cleaned up by NSW infiltrators. The hapless Roosters run of outs continued with a devastating 90 mtr try by the Warriors condemning the Roosters to their 13th loss and cementing their wooden spoon position on the NRL table.
In the AFL, competition front runners St Kilda and Geelong continued on their winning ways. Reining premier Hawthorn raised the hopes of their supporters ending Collingwood’s seven game winning streak and in the battle for the “Caretaker Cup” Richmond and North Melbourne made Nathan Buckley’s future even more cloudy by fighting out the first draw of the AFL season.
But even with all of this football action gracing our TV screens this weekend true sports nuts could be forgiven for having seen very little of it.
For nearly two weeks now the “Tour de France” had wound its way through the French countryside delighting cycling fans. The coverage as usual has provided a visual smorgasbord for viewers, blurring the lines between sporting coverage and a four hour long travel infomercial.
As wonderful as “Le Tour” is to watch, many sports nuts have had to pass on the 2009 version as it clashes with cricket’s greatest rivalry “The Ashes”. As Ricky Ponting leads his team mates into battle against the oldest of enemies, SBS has also had to battle fans as the free to air rights holder for both of these classic events. The cricket won out with the cycling being shunted to the SBS2 channel available only to the chosen few digital consumers.
To make matters worse (or better) for sports fans, this weekend has also been home to arguably golf’s biggest challenge, the British Open. Accepting that “The Masters” is the Wimbledon of the golfing calendar, the “Open” on a links course provides a unique challenge for the biggest names in the sport as well as essential viewing for sports fans.
So, from Friday night sports fans have had the difficult choice between two football codes, the world best cycling tour, the worlds number one cricket contest and world golfs biggest challenge, an impossible choice for any sports freak.
For those who survived their “Friday Night Fight”, Saturday brought no relief for the sleep deprived. Once again sports fans were faced with version II of the Friday night viewing line up with a twist. As difficult as the Friday night decisions were for sports fans the addition of a Bledisloe Cup Rugby Test on Saturday night was enough to send even the most level headed sporties into mental meltdown.
So bring on Sunday and just when we thought the Aussies painful Lords performance and Cadel Evans unfortunate situation in the Tour would provide much needed relief for the seriously sleep deprived, Tasmanian golfer Matt Goggin has condemned Aussie sports fans to another late night. With one round remaining Goggin is a serious contender to become Australia’s latest major winner by positioning himself only one shot from the lead.
So the July sports smorgasbord is complete with side servings of champions trophy hockey, Usain Bolts 9.79s Golden League 100mtr performance and weekend horse racing. Now as a new working week dawns Aussie sports nuts will have to break out the strong coffee and look forward to the relaxation that only a job can provide.
As usual the NRL and AFL have provided many opportunities over the weekend for the purists of each code to obtain their weekly fix.
A Suncorp stadium double header on Friday night continued a poor week for Queensland league fans with both the Bronco’s and Titans cleaned up by NSW infiltrators. The hapless Roosters run of outs continued with a devastating 90 mtr try by the Warriors condemning the Roosters to their 13th loss and cementing their wooden spoon position on the NRL table.
In the AFL, competition front runners St Kilda and Geelong continued on their winning ways. Reining premier Hawthorn raised the hopes of their supporters ending Collingwood’s seven game winning streak and in the battle for the “Caretaker Cup” Richmond and North Melbourne made Nathan Buckley’s future even more cloudy by fighting out the first draw of the AFL season.
But even with all of this football action gracing our TV screens this weekend true sports nuts could be forgiven for having seen very little of it.
For nearly two weeks now the “Tour de France” had wound its way through the French countryside delighting cycling fans. The coverage as usual has provided a visual smorgasbord for viewers, blurring the lines between sporting coverage and a four hour long travel infomercial.
As wonderful as “Le Tour” is to watch, many sports nuts have had to pass on the 2009 version as it clashes with cricket’s greatest rivalry “The Ashes”. As Ricky Ponting leads his team mates into battle against the oldest of enemies, SBS has also had to battle fans as the free to air rights holder for both of these classic events. The cricket won out with the cycling being shunted to the SBS2 channel available only to the chosen few digital consumers.
To make matters worse (or better) for sports fans, this weekend has also been home to arguably golf’s biggest challenge, the British Open. Accepting that “The Masters” is the Wimbledon of the golfing calendar, the “Open” on a links course provides a unique challenge for the biggest names in the sport as well as essential viewing for sports fans.
So, from Friday night sports fans have had the difficult choice between two football codes, the world best cycling tour, the worlds number one cricket contest and world golfs biggest challenge, an impossible choice for any sports freak.
For those who survived their “Friday Night Fight”, Saturday brought no relief for the sleep deprived. Once again sports fans were faced with version II of the Friday night viewing line up with a twist. As difficult as the Friday night decisions were for sports fans the addition of a Bledisloe Cup Rugby Test on Saturday night was enough to send even the most level headed sporties into mental meltdown.
So bring on Sunday and just when we thought the Aussies painful Lords performance and Cadel Evans unfortunate situation in the Tour would provide much needed relief for the seriously sleep deprived, Tasmanian golfer Matt Goggin has condemned Aussie sports fans to another late night. With one round remaining Goggin is a serious contender to become Australia’s latest major winner by positioning himself only one shot from the lead.
So the July sports smorgasbord is complete with side servings of champions trophy hockey, Usain Bolts 9.79s Golden League 100mtr performance and weekend horse racing. Now as a new working week dawns Aussie sports nuts will have to break out the strong coffee and look forward to the relaxation that only a job can provide.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Sheedy launches bid for the Poisoned Chalice
Icon of AFL football and former Essendon coach Kevin Sheedy this week threw his hat in the ring for the vacant head coaching position at Richmond. After repeatedly saying he was not in the running for the job, Sheedy stated his intentions on Wednesday after witnessing the Tigers insipid performance against the competition front runners St Kilda last Sunday.
One must ask however, who would want the poisoned chalice of AFL football?
Since Richmond’s last grand final appearance in 1982 the club has employed 11 senior coaches including current caretaker Jade Rawlings and the recycled 1980 premiership coach Tony Jewell for a second stint in 1985-87.
After burning through nine coaches in 18 years from 1982-1999 the club took a different approach in 2000 offering coach Danny Frawley a five year contract. The club continued this theme with Frawley’s successor Terry Wallace in 2005. Both appointments were designed to give the club the stability it needed to claw its way out of the hole it had created in the 80’s and 90’s.
So what has been the net result for Richmond’s efforts of the past 28 years? A winning percentage of 38% and 13 seasons with less than seven wins. A record that suggests whoever does take the reins at Punt Road has a challenge as great as any faced by an incoming AFL coach.
Whoever does take the job at Richmond for 2010 must remember one thing. Richmond has a habit of ending coach’s careers.
Of the 11 coaches who have held the position since 1982 only one has ever coached AFL football again. John Northey is the odd one out. After leading the tigers to their most successful season in 13 years, a contractual dispute resulted in Northey leaving Richmond to take up the position with the Brisbane Bears.
So where does this place Kevin Sheedy? What can he offer Richmond that others cannot?
First, it is experience; Sheedy’s career at the highest level has already spanned 40 years. There is very little that he hasn’t seen. He has been considered an innovator and proved he can build premiership teams from humble beginnings.
Second is success, quite simply Kevin Sheedy is a winner. As a player he was part of the most successful era in the history of Tigerland winning 3 premierships. As a coach he has a 61% winning record and has coached 4 Essendon premiership sides.
Third is familiarity, Sheedy knows the beast that is Richmond. Adding to his long relationship as a player at Richmond, Sheedy spent this year involved at the club in a marketing role, in a unique position to observe the current internal workings of the club.
Finally, Sheedy has nothing to lose. History shows that if a younger coach tries and fails at Richmond it most likely spells the end of their coaching career. If he is successful in obtaining the Richmond job, it would without doubt be Sheedy’s final coaching appointment anyway.
Some will cite the failed Alan Jeans experiment of 1992 as a reason not to appoint Sheedy. However, there is one big difference. Sheedy is chasing the job, not the other way around. Richmond coaxed a retired Jeans out of retirement hoping to witness a repeat of the glory days at Hawthorn. Kevin Sheedy does not need this job, yet he has a hunger to take the massive challenge on.
Perhaps it is time for Richmond to appoint the man they tried to woo back to Punt Road for so many years. They appear to have tried everything else.
One must ask however, who would want the poisoned chalice of AFL football?
Since Richmond’s last grand final appearance in 1982 the club has employed 11 senior coaches including current caretaker Jade Rawlings and the recycled 1980 premiership coach Tony Jewell for a second stint in 1985-87.
After burning through nine coaches in 18 years from 1982-1999 the club took a different approach in 2000 offering coach Danny Frawley a five year contract. The club continued this theme with Frawley’s successor Terry Wallace in 2005. Both appointments were designed to give the club the stability it needed to claw its way out of the hole it had created in the 80’s and 90’s.
So what has been the net result for Richmond’s efforts of the past 28 years? A winning percentage of 38% and 13 seasons with less than seven wins. A record that suggests whoever does take the reins at Punt Road has a challenge as great as any faced by an incoming AFL coach.
Whoever does take the job at Richmond for 2010 must remember one thing. Richmond has a habit of ending coach’s careers.
Of the 11 coaches who have held the position since 1982 only one has ever coached AFL football again. John Northey is the odd one out. After leading the tigers to their most successful season in 13 years, a contractual dispute resulted in Northey leaving Richmond to take up the position with the Brisbane Bears.
So where does this place Kevin Sheedy? What can he offer Richmond that others cannot?
First, it is experience; Sheedy’s career at the highest level has already spanned 40 years. There is very little that he hasn’t seen. He has been considered an innovator and proved he can build premiership teams from humble beginnings.
Second is success, quite simply Kevin Sheedy is a winner. As a player he was part of the most successful era in the history of Tigerland winning 3 premierships. As a coach he has a 61% winning record and has coached 4 Essendon premiership sides.
Third is familiarity, Sheedy knows the beast that is Richmond. Adding to his long relationship as a player at Richmond, Sheedy spent this year involved at the club in a marketing role, in a unique position to observe the current internal workings of the club.
Finally, Sheedy has nothing to lose. History shows that if a younger coach tries and fails at Richmond it most likely spells the end of their coaching career. If he is successful in obtaining the Richmond job, it would without doubt be Sheedy’s final coaching appointment anyway.
Some will cite the failed Alan Jeans experiment of 1992 as a reason not to appoint Sheedy. However, there is one big difference. Sheedy is chasing the job, not the other way around. Richmond coaxed a retired Jeans out of retirement hoping to witness a repeat of the glory days at Hawthorn. Kevin Sheedy does not need this job, yet he has a hunger to take the massive challenge on.
Perhaps it is time for Richmond to appoint the man they tried to woo back to Punt Road for so many years. They appear to have tried everything else.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Stosur advances despite German assault.
Australia’s last remaining hope in the Wimbledon women’s draw, Samantha Stosur advanced to the third round today after a tough three set battle against German teenager Tatiana Malak. Malak who defeated Australia’s other great hope Jelana Dokic in the first round, threatened to repeat the pain for Aussie tennis fans when she took the opening set from an error riddled Stosur.
Malak’s solid base line game proved difficult to match for the top ranked Australian who was clearly out of sorts in the first set. Stosur’s powerful forehand, so often her most dangerous weapon, proved highly erratic as multiple unforced errors gifted the young German the first break of serve. The trend continued throughout the opening set and the set finished as it had began with four consecutive Stosur errors handing the set to her 101st ranked opponent.
The second set followed a similar script to the opener as Stosur’s rapidly rising unforced error count threatened to derail her Wimbledon dream. After handing an early break to Malak, Stosur finally broke her opponents serve midway through the second set to provide hope that a comeback was imminent. Both players served solidly to send the second set to a tiebreaker.
Four more forehand errors to open the vital tiebreak appeared to have sealed Stosur’s fate as the rock solid Malak continued to frustrate the Australian. Stosur steadied to level the tiebreak at 6-6 and the turning point of the match came in the tiebreak’s marathon 13th point. Stosur toughed out an epic 31 shot rally to secure a set point which she duly converted to even up the match at one set all.
Despite finding form late in the second set Stosur’s forehand nightmare returned early in the deciding set allowing Malak to race to a 4-1 lead. It appeared Stosur’s 44 unforced errors would hand the German a second consecutive victory over Australia’s top ranked players. Just as the match appeared headed for another disappointing result for Australian tennis fans Stosur rallied, finally finding her ‘A’ game and reeling off five consecutive games to secure the match and advance to the third round.
It’s the first time Stosur has advanced past the second round at Wimbledon and looks set to face 13th seed Anna Ivanovic in the third round.
Samantha Stosur (Aus) 4 7 6
Tatiana Malak (Ger) 6 6 4
Malak’s solid base line game proved difficult to match for the top ranked Australian who was clearly out of sorts in the first set. Stosur’s powerful forehand, so often her most dangerous weapon, proved highly erratic as multiple unforced errors gifted the young German the first break of serve. The trend continued throughout the opening set and the set finished as it had began with four consecutive Stosur errors handing the set to her 101st ranked opponent.
The second set followed a similar script to the opener as Stosur’s rapidly rising unforced error count threatened to derail her Wimbledon dream. After handing an early break to Malak, Stosur finally broke her opponents serve midway through the second set to provide hope that a comeback was imminent. Both players served solidly to send the second set to a tiebreaker.
Four more forehand errors to open the vital tiebreak appeared to have sealed Stosur’s fate as the rock solid Malak continued to frustrate the Australian. Stosur steadied to level the tiebreak at 6-6 and the turning point of the match came in the tiebreak’s marathon 13th point. Stosur toughed out an epic 31 shot rally to secure a set point which she duly converted to even up the match at one set all.
Despite finding form late in the second set Stosur’s forehand nightmare returned early in the deciding set allowing Malak to race to a 4-1 lead. It appeared Stosur’s 44 unforced errors would hand the German a second consecutive victory over Australia’s top ranked players. Just as the match appeared headed for another disappointing result for Australian tennis fans Stosur rallied, finally finding her ‘A’ game and reeling off five consecutive games to secure the match and advance to the third round.
It’s the first time Stosur has advanced past the second round at Wimbledon and looks set to face 13th seed Anna Ivanovic in the third round.
Samantha Stosur (Aus) 4 7 6
Tatiana Malak (Ger) 6 6 4
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Double Fault Dokic bows out.
Comeback kid Jelena Dokic bowed out of Wimbledon today losing to German qualifier Tatiana Malek in the first round. A clearly under prepared Dokic failed to build on a promising opening set to go down 3-6 7-5 6-2 to the 101st ranked German teenager.
Dokic’s Wimbledon preparation was severely disrupted after having to withdraw from the French open 2nd round with a lower back complaint. With no lead up matches to prepare her for her grass court assault, Dokic would have been pleased with the way she began the first round encounter.
From the first point of the match Dokic looked sharp securing the opening game with a series of her trademark flat forehand winners. The Dokic dominance continued throughout the first set culminating in a second break to secure the opening set 6-3.
With the first set locked away in only 28 minutes spectators could have been forgiven for thinking the match was heading for an early finish. Enter double fault Dokic. As quickly as Dokic had taken control of the match in the first game, her serve deserted her midway through the second set.
Consecutive double faults gifted Malek her first break of serve and set the tone for the remainder of the match. A brief fight back at 2-4 by Dokic allowed her to put the set back on serve however the serving jitters returned soon after and once again consecutive double faults handed the German the second set.
The deciding set proved much of the same for Dokic as her mounting double fault and unforced error count proved too much for her to overcome. In the end 16 double faults and 46 unforced errors gave the Australian no real chance of progressing to the second round.
Malek now progresses for the first time to the second round at Wimbledon where she will meet another Australian Samantha Stosur who disposed of American Bethanie Mattek-Sands in the first round.
Dokic’s Wimbledon preparation was severely disrupted after having to withdraw from the French open 2nd round with a lower back complaint. With no lead up matches to prepare her for her grass court assault, Dokic would have been pleased with the way she began the first round encounter.
From the first point of the match Dokic looked sharp securing the opening game with a series of her trademark flat forehand winners. The Dokic dominance continued throughout the first set culminating in a second break to secure the opening set 6-3.
With the first set locked away in only 28 minutes spectators could have been forgiven for thinking the match was heading for an early finish. Enter double fault Dokic. As quickly as Dokic had taken control of the match in the first game, her serve deserted her midway through the second set.
Consecutive double faults gifted Malek her first break of serve and set the tone for the remainder of the match. A brief fight back at 2-4 by Dokic allowed her to put the set back on serve however the serving jitters returned soon after and once again consecutive double faults handed the German the second set.
The deciding set proved much of the same for Dokic as her mounting double fault and unforced error count proved too much for her to overcome. In the end 16 double faults and 46 unforced errors gave the Australian no real chance of progressing to the second round.
Malek now progresses for the first time to the second round at Wimbledon where she will meet another Australian Samantha Stosur who disposed of American Bethanie Mattek-Sands in the first round.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Welcome to Monday's Expert
Welcome to Monday's Expert. I have deveolped this blog in an endeavor to improve my writing and sports reporting skill's to support my journalism study at QUT. I look forward to sharing with you some opinion and information about the world of sport that we all know and love.
There will be a leaning towards AFL initally as it is my first sporting passion, however I'm sure as I get more used to posting regular stories I will share my opinion on a wider spectrum of sports.
I hope you enjoy the content of this blog and feel free to share it with your friends.
Cheers Paul
There will be a leaning towards AFL initally as it is my first sporting passion, however I'm sure as I get more used to posting regular stories I will share my opinion on a wider spectrum of sports.
I hope you enjoy the content of this blog and feel free to share it with your friends.
Cheers Paul
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