Great pre season info

[yakka]

SuperCoach 2015: the young guns to watch and rookies who could be Round 1 bolters
Ben Higgins News Corp Australia December 11, 2014 11:00AM SHARE

YOUR SuperCoach 2015 homework starts now.

After the AFL national and rookie drafts, we run the rule over some of the young guns set to feature next season.

While prices and positions aren’t revealed until later this month, it’s a safe bet that these rookies will be pretty popular when it comes time to select your starting line-up.

Petracca & brayshaw

Expected position: midfield

Expected price: $200k plus


The Vic Metro pair are sure to be expensive but are also set to see plenty of playing time. Paul Roos isn’t likely to throw them into the midfield full time in 2015 with Petracca likely to spend time forward (which means goals and goal assists) and possibly Brayshaw in defence (which means intercept marks). Petracca averaged 129 SuperCoach points across his two TAC Cup seasons (21 disposals and two goals per game).

JARROD PICKETT (GWS Giants)

Expected position: forward-midfield

Expected price: $170k

The South Fremantle excitement machine will likely spend a lot of time in the forward line in 2015 but can still push up the ground to win his own ball and then kick big goals. The Giants hope Pickett develops into a Michael Walters or Stevie J type of midfield-forward and this can only be a good thing for SuperCoach. At Colts level for South Fremantle, Pickett averaged 21 disposals, five inside-50s and two goals per game in 2014.

JORDAN DE GOEY (Collingwood)

Expected position: midfield

Expected price: $170k

The tough midfielder should slot straight into the Magpies’ engine room given the departures of Luke Ball and Dayne Beams. The No.5 draft pick will not come cheap and still needs to work on his ball-winning to be a premium cash cow but his classy disposal makes up for it in the SuperCoach format. Nathan Buckley is keen to mould the Magpies in his image, so expect the club’s top pick to get plenty of chances to make his mark.

ISAAC HEENEY (Sydney Swans)

Expected position: midfield)

Expected price: $120k-$140k

Like last year’s No.18 pick, Luke Dunstan, Issac Heeney could be SuperCoach gold in 2015. The elite midfielder averaged 27 disposals (16 contested), eight tackles and 139 SuperCoach points at the national championships. Champion Data have compared him to Steele Sidebottom and we’re throwing SC studs Luke Parker and Robbie Gray into the mix. Another positive is Heeney was a Swans Academy selection, so he won’t be as expensive as the top picks. Dunstan started the 2014 season at $132k.

JAYDEN LAVERDE (Essendon)

Expected position: midfield

Expected price: $120-$140k

The smooth moving midfielder will add the polish to a workmanlike Bombers engine room. Laverde was an absolute steal for Essendon at pick No.20 and can’t ask for better role models than Jobe Watson and Dyson Heppell. At 189cm, the Western Jets product is a difficult match-up on the outside and loves to run and carry — averaging more than 300m gained per game — which could mean big SuperCoach points.

CALEB DANIEL (Western Bulldogs)

Expected position: forward

Expected price: $100-$120k

The shortest man in the draft — he stands 167cm — could make an instant impact at AFL level as Luke Dahlhaus sees more time in the midfield. Daniel was rated the No.1 player at the national championships by Champion Data after averaging 172 SuperCoach points, including a 21-disposal, three-goal, 217-point effort against Vic Metro. The under-18 All Australian posted an elite 16.1 beep test at the Draft Combine.

CLEM SMITH (Carlton)

Expected position: defence-midfield

Expected price: $100-$120k

The West Australian has already nominated himself as Carlton’s Byron Pickett and knows how to find plenty of the ball. Rated as a possible second or even first-round pick before the national draft, Smith slipped to the Blues at pick 60. Expect Smith to be listed as a defender — potentially with dual midfield status — and be in the $120k price range. He could well be 2015’s version of Jarman Impey with an ability to play at either end of the ground.

AARON VANDENBERG (Melbourne)

Expected position: midfield

Expected price: $90k-$120k

A genuine beast of a midfielder in the NEAFL, it will be interesting to see how he develops at Melbourne over the pre-season. The Demons’ midfield depth has certainly been boosted in the past two years and the Ainslie product could be pushed to a flank in the AFL. Averaged 31 touches in 2014 with a high of 56 against Eastlake and has all the attributes to be a mature-age success story under Paul Roos.

KANE LAMBERT (Richmond)

Expected position: midfield

Expected price: $90k-$120k

The Williamstown product is being touted as the next Michael Barlow or Anthony Miles. The Tigers have left a spot open on the senior list and a place in the Tigers’ midfield rotation is certainly there for the taking. We expect Lambert to be priced as a normal rookie, which would make him insanely cheap for the level of output that we believe he is capable of. If Lambert doesn’t get a start from Round 1, he’s going to be the ideal downgrade target later in the season.

NATHAN KRAKOUER (Port Adelaide)

Expected position: defence

Expected price: $90k-$120k

Yep, it’s pretty hard to crack this Power line-up. However, Port re-drafted Krakouer for a reason and could use his speed and skills off the half-back line. Given the former Sun hasn’t played in the AFL for two years, he should be available at a rock-bottom price. We all thought he was capable of elite SuperCoach scores before he stepped away in 2011 and after returning with Port Magpies in the SANFL, he polled best and fairest votes 12 times in 16 games.

KEEP A KEEN EYE ON
PATRICK McCARTIN (St Kilda)

Expected position: forward

Expected price: $200k plus

Yes, he is a key forward. Yes, he is going to be super expensive. But forward rookies who play most weeks are rare. The Saints can’t rely solely on Nick Riewoldt and McCartin is ready to go. He’s not going to make a heap of cash like a Dom Tyson or James Aish but given his high starting price McCartin might be a solid long-term investment. Let’s be honest, the Saints can’t afford not to play him.

JAKE LEVER (Adelaide Crows)

Expected position: defence

Expected price: $130k-$150k

Another key position player and one coming off a knee reconstruction to boot. However, the Crows don’t have much in the way of key defenders and Lever fills an immediate need. Despite the injury, Lever was touted as a top five pick and should be ready to play from Round 1. In 2013 he averaged 18 touches, three intercept marks and 95 SuperCoach points for Calder Cannons. Knee injuries didn’t seem to bother Troy Menzel or Joel Selwood in their draft years.

BLAINE BOEKHORST (Carlton)

Expected position: midfield

Expected price: $130k-$150k

The mature-age midfielder is straight out of the WAFL and barring any slip up could easily be named for Round 1. In 19 games for Swan Districts in 2014, Boekhorst averaged 21 touches and four marks. The Blues like the 21-year-old’s run and carry but he can also win his own ball. At pick 19, Boekhorst will be available at a decent price and has starting midfield capabilities depending on how he is used by Mick Malthouse during the pre-season.

DANIEL McKENZIE (St Kilda)

Expected position: midfield

Expected price: $120k-$140k

While all the attention has gone to first round picks Paddy McCartin and Hugh Goddard, McKenzie was the first pick of the second round and has plenty of star potential himself. He’s light at 77kg but has all the athletic attributes to make an impact in his debut year. Let’s not forget that the Saints gave at least one game to every player expect one on their list in 2014. McKenzie will be given plenty of opportunity and will be a lot cheaper than his new teammates.

Pick Me: Touk Miller2:09
TOUK MILLER (Gold Coast)

Expected position: midfield

Expected price: $120k-$130k

Is this Dion Prestia 2.0? Miller is 2cm taller than his Suns teammate and plays a similar brand of football. Obviously, it is going to be difficult to crack the Suns starting line up but Miller could spent time forward as he acclimatises to the AFL. The Calder Cannons product is a ball magnet with a booming kick and should be cheap after he was taken in the second round. If nothing else, he could be a popular downgrade target later in the season.

LIAM DAWSON (Brisbane Lions)

Expected position: defender-midfield

Expected price: $100k-$120

Picked up through the Lions’ academy, the versatile youngster can play either a creative or lockdown role in defence or through the midfield. Despite missing the 2014 National Championships, Dawson won the Harrison Medal in 2013 as the best player in division two. After the departure of Joel Patfull there is a hole in the Lions’ defence and Dawson at 188cm and 81kg could help fill the void.

TIM MEMBREY (St Kilda)

Expected position: forward

Expected price: $120k-$150k

The question is, what impact will Paddy McCartin’s arrival have on Membrey? Before the draft, Membrey was expected to be the No.2 forward behind Nick Riewoldt. Now? Membrey managed just one game for the Swans and arrives at the Saints as a delisted free agent. The forward started 2014 at the rookie price of $123k, so we can expect him to be similarly priced again. It will be interesting to see how the Saints line up in the NAB Challenge.

SHANE BIGGS (Western Bulldogs)

Expected position: defence-midfield

Expected price: $200k-$240k

A late acquisition by the Bulldogs in trade week, Biggs managed six games in two years at Sydney. Biggs averaged 47 points in three games in 2014 and could be priced around the $200,000 mark. The Dogs needed depth in defence and Biggs, a smooth mover with clean skills certainly fills a need. There will be competition from the likes of Easton Wood, Jason Johannisen, Sam Darley and Joel Hamling. If he gets the nod from Round 1, Biggs will be one of those rare rookie defenders with SuperCoach starting capabilities
BRENDEN ABBOTT (Collingwood)

Expected position: midfield

Expected price: $90-$120k

The Magpies took a punt on Abbott and Derek Hine has said the club will need to be patient. However, if the Albany product puts in a quality pre-season the club as well as SuperCoaches could be rewarded. Abbott played 15 games for Claremont this season and despite some “personal issues” has been described as “a powerful, physical half-back flanker with explosive speed, strength and agility”. A natural football talent who could blossom in an elite AFL environment.

KANE LUCAS (West Coast)

Expected position: midfield

Expected price: $180k-$220k

After the former Blues’ comments about Mick Malthouse, it’s safe to say Lucas has something to prove next season. With a chip on his shoulder and an shallow Eagles midfield, we might finally see why Lucas was taken at pick No.12 back in 2009. After seven games at an average of 47 SuperCoach points in 2014, Lucas should be available at a discount. Whether he is 2015’s Dom Tyson or Colin Sylvia remains to be seen.

 

[siwel]

Ben Reid injures calf at Collingwood training as big man’s wretched run in 2014 continues

COLLINGWOOD big man Ben Reid will miss a chunk of the Pies’ pre-season after breaking down with another soft-tissue injury at training.

The Pies confirmed Reid, 25, has injured his “good” calf at training on Monday and looks set to miss four to six weeks.

KILOS: LIGHT THE WHITE WAY TO GO

His latest setback comes on the back of a forgettable 2014 season for the versatile swingman, who managed just four matches in a year dogged by quadriceps, hamstring and calf complaints.

“Reidy is searching for answers and wondering why ... hopefully he’s up and going after Christmas,” skipper Scott Pendlebury said on Tuesday.

“He has a history of calf injuries but he’s an optimistic person ... Hopefully it’s 4-6 weeks and we’ll see him back out there.

“For us to be a good side, he’s key part of that.”

The news is better for Pendlebury, who expects to rejoin contact drills after the Christmas break following post-season shoulder surgery.

 

[yakka]

Recruit turning heads at Hawthorn's pre-season training camp
Travis King December 16, 2014 11:02 PM

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Jonathan O'Rourke ... has done almost everything since he's come to the club and he's building his confidence
Hawthorn's head of fitness Andrew Russell

JONATHAN O'Rourke is wasting no time earning his stripes at Hawthorn, with the midfield recruit among the most impressive performers at the Hawks' pre-season training camp.

Injury partly restricted O'Rourke to just nine games in two seasons at Greater Western Sydney and the former No.2 draft pick knows he faces a challenge to break into the Hawks' best 22 next season.

But with the players in the midst of a gruelling eight-day camp on the Sunshine Coast, Hawthorn's head of fitness Andrew Russell said O'Rourke had grown in fitness and confidence by completing nearly every session since he crossed to Waverley.

"Some of the young guys have been really good and we've been really happy with what we've got out of them," Russell told the club's website.

"Jonathan O'Rourke, who came from GWS, has done almost everything since he's come to the club and he's building his confidence and getting into the group and we're really happy with how he's going."

The Hawks' squad is near full fitness heading into the Christmas break, allowing the coaching staff to get a heavy workload into the players at Mooloolaba.

Ruckman Marc Pittonet and small defender Teia Miles have adapted quickly to life in the AFL since they were picked up in last month's NAB AFL Draft, while second-year running machine Billy Hartung won acclaim from Sam Mitchell for his "absolutely outstanding" efforts on Monday.

However, the veteran onballer's training intensity hasn't gone unnoticed either.

"We've got some old boys in the group but they're not slowing down," Russell said.

"Sam Mitchell is training as well as I've ever seen him, Grant Birchall is in excellent shape and David Hale hasn't missed a beat at all – just to name a few – but there's a lot of guys that are really moving well."

The Hawks have interspersed brutal running sessions with boxing, circuit work on the beach, weights and skills sessions during the camp, which Russell said was a crucial part of Hawthorn's tilt at a premiership three-peat.

"Physically there's no doubt it really sets up our year," he said.

"We want to challenge them physically, but with that then comes the mental challenge of being able to back up with high workloads, high stress on the body and fatigue because the AFL season is a tough, long, hard slog.

"It's like a marathon and they have to be able to mentally back up week after week after week, so this is just start..


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[yakka]

Demons' Fantasy prices and positions revealed for 2015
Ben Guthrie December 17, 2014 7:00 AM

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Ben Newton looks to be a steal in Fantasy next year
THE FUTURE is here for Melbourne.

Christian Petracca, selection No.2 in the 2014 NAB AFL Draft, and Angus Brayshaw, pick No.3, are the two young midfielders the Demons are building their club around.

But do they command a place in your NAB AFL line up.

In a nod to his versatility, Petracca has been given dual position status and may be claimed as a forward or a midfielder in 2015. His starting price is $297,000.

Brayshaw can only be selected as a midfielder and is marginally cheaper at $294,000.

Early indications are that Brayshaw is slightly ahead of Petracca and, depending on NAB Challenge form, will be pushing to play in round one.

Midfielders Nathan Jones [$572,000], Bernie Vince [539,000] and Dom Tyson [$510,000] are Melbourne's priciest players, which is appropriate considering they finished in the top three of the Demons' best and fairest.

The Demons' players to present some value include, Colin Garland [DEF, $331,000], Max Gawn [FWD/MID, $320,000] and Ben Newton [MID, $192,000].



If hype is anything to go on, then Jesse Hogan [FWD, $194,000] should be an absolute lock in your AFL Fantasy team.

The young Melbourne forward is yet to play a game, however he has shown in one NAB Challenge game that he is going to be some sort of player.

At that price, picking Hogan is a no-brainer.


This time last year, Christian Salem's [FWD, $193,000] first pre-season hit a roadblock when he was diagnosed with a thyroid problem.

In good news, after promising debut season, Salem is back in full health and is up and firing this pre-season.

Salem is a chance to see some more midfield time in 2015 and the Demons have high hopes the 19-year-old can be a genuine gun in the coming years.

Rookie Aaron Vandenberg [MID, $120,000] may also be worth considering, if he looks like playing his way into Paul Roos' team early next year.

The ready-made on-baller collected 56 disposals in a game in the NEAFL last year, so he can certainly find the football.


Jack Grimes [DEF, $400,000] has been a popular member of fantasy teams throughout the years. But at $400,000, and having averaged 70.61 in 18 games in 2014, it's time to look elsewhere.

Grimes struggled with the weight of the co-captaincy last season, which has prompted him to ditch the title heading into 2015.

Grimes acknowledges he needs to be playing better footy, so Heritier Lumumba [DEF/MID, $402,000] is a more assured option. The former Pie is listed as dual position, which is a bonus for prospective fantasy owners.

Friday: we reveal GWS' Fantasy prices and positions for 2015


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[yakka]

SuperCoach 2015: Dane Swan a midfield/forward as player positions revealed
Al Paton News Corp Australia Network December 18, 2014 9:00AM SHARE

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Dane Swan is keen to put a disastrous 2014 season behind him. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Wayne Ludbey / News Corp Australia
CAN Dane Swan bounce back after a “putrid” 2014 to regain SuperCoach superstar status next year?

It’s one of the big questions of the 2015 SuperCoach season. While many SuperCoach players are prepared to write off Swanny, we have some information that make you think twice — the proven fantasy stud is available as a midfielder and a forward next.

When SuperCoach Gold users and Herald Sun subscribers gain access to the advanced team picker next week, they will find some big position changes that could change the game next season.

As well as Swan, Tiger Brett Deledio and Bomber Brendon Goddard have been named as midfield/forwards.


That’s right, Brett, you’re sure to be popular in 2015. Picture: Wayne LudbeySource: News Corp Australia
So have Kangaroo Jack Ziebell, Gold Coast star Harley Bennell and No.2 draft pick Christian Petracca.

Port recruit Paddy Ryder is a forward/ruck and so is the man likely to replace him in the Essendon line-up, Tom Bellchambers. But Nic Naitanui is still just a ruckman.



Among those to lose dual-position status in 2015 are Sam Mitchell and Pearce Hanley, who can both only be picked in the midfield next season.

Patrick Dangerfield, the most popular forward in the 2014 game, is a midfielder only in 2015 and Stefan Martin, a revelation as a forward/ruck in 2014, can be picked only in the ruck.

Jimmy Bartel, who could be picked as a midfielder or a defender last season, is now a forward.

Among the players to keep their DPP status are Tiger Dustin Martin, Lion Dane Zorko, Kangaroos veteran Brent Harvey and Port Adelaide star Robbie Gray (all midfield/forwards) and Hawks Shaun Burgoyne and Luke Hodge (both midfield/defenders).


NEW DUAL-POSITION PLAYERS
Dane Swan (Collingwood) — midfield/forward

Brendon Goddard (Essendon) — midfield/forward

Brett Deledio (Richmond) — midfield/forward

Jack Ziebell (North Melbourne) — midfield/forward

Harley Bennell (Gold Coast) — midfield/forward

Dale Thomas (Carlton) — midfield/forward

Adam Cooney (Essendon) — midfield/forward

Paddy Ryder (Port Adelaide) — ruck/forward

Tom Bellchambers (Essendon) — ruck/forward

Jarrod Harbrow (Gold Coast) — midfield/defender

Nathan Krakouer (Port Adelaide) — midfield/forward

Christian Petracca (Melbourne) — midfield/forward

Jayden Laverde (Essendon) — midfield/forward

Hugh Goddard (St Kilda) — defender/forward

Sam Durdin (North Melbourne) — defender/ruck

Kane Lambert (Richmond) — midfield/forward

NO LONGER DPPs
Patrick Dangerfield (Adelaide) — midfielder

Sam Mitchell (Hawthorn) — midfielder

Pearce Hanley (Brisbane) — midfielder

Jimmy Bartel (Geelong) — forward

Luke Parker (Sydney) — midfielder

Jarrad McVeigh (Sydney) — midfielder

David Swallow (Gold Coast) — midfielder

Stefan Martin (Brisbane) — ruck

Chad Wingard (Port Adelaide) — forward

Lewis Taylor (Brisbane) — forward

Josh Caddy (Geelong) — midfielder

Luke McDonald (North Melbourne) — defender

 

[Braider]

I'm happy to hear these words...

"When SuperCoach Gold users and Herald Sun subscribers gain access to the advanced team picker next week...."

 

[yakka]

I'm happy to hear these words...

"When SuperCoach Gold users and Herald Sun subscribers gain access to the advanced team picker next week...."

Oohh yeah brother can't wait

 

[yakka]

But Nic Naitanui is still just a ruckman.

 

[yakka]

Patrick Dangerfield, the most popular forward in the 2014 game, is a midfielder only in 2015

Jimmy Bartel, who could be picked as a midfielder or a defender last season, is now a forward.

 

[Nk29]

NDS pure mid then?

 

[Goodie's Guns]

NDS pure mid then?

Yep confirmed in DPP thread I think.

 

[Nk29]

Yep confirmed in DPP thread I think.

Good makes the defensive line more POD for everyone.

 

[yakka]

Young Cat Thurlow out of hospital
Ben Guthrie December 19, 2014 1:26 PM

Jackson Thurlow has been released from hospital

GEELONG utility Jackson Thurlow has been released from hospital and will spend the Christmas break recuperating in his home state of Tasmania as he continues his recovery from a lacerated kidney.

Thurlow was discharged from hospital in Geelong on Friday morning and is set to travel home to spend the two-week break with his family in Launceston.

The Cats expect his recovery from the injury, which he sustained at training last Saturday, will take between six to eight weeks and his return date is still yet to be determined.

Thurlow copped an accidental elbow at training during a drill and after the extent of his injury became more apparent he was sent for scans.

He avoided surgery but remained in hospital for a little less than a week to rest under observation.

Thurlow has played 10 games in two seasons for the Cats after being selected with pick No.16 in the 2012 NAB AFL Draft.

The injury is a blow for Geelong, as the club viewed Thurlow – who played in the Cats' semi-final loss to North Melbourne – as a potential replacement for Allen Christensen or Travis Varcoe through the midfield or even up forward.

Thurlow had returned to training in top shape, having participated in the Noosa Triathlon in November and it was well known that he had had a solid month on the training track.

 

[yakka]

The Chosen Few
Footy's most extraordinary men in an extraordinary video
07:45am Dec 18, 2014
Boomer stars as exhausted Roos eye flag
Boomer stars as exhausted Roos eye flag
Reality of premiership chance drives North through gruelling session
04:19pm Dec 18, 2014
Flag window won't shut with veterans: Mundy
Flag window won't shut with veterans: Mundy
David Mundy says flag chances won't go when veterans retire
03:21pm Dec 19, 2014
Young Dee's knee relief after training mishap
Young Dee's knee relief after training mishap
Demon draftee suffers knee injury at training but escapes major damage
03:08pm Dec 19, 2014
Giants' Fantasy prices
Giants' Fantasy prices
You could build an entire midfield around GWS, such is the club's depth
06:03pm Dec 19, 2014


Where's your club at? Pre-season training so far and what's coming up in 2015
staff writers December 20, 2014 5:11 PM

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Freo star Nat Fyfe works hard in the gym as he recovers from off-season shoulder surgery
ADELAIDE
Pre-season so far: Training sessions have had an intensity that only the arrival of a new coach can bring. Phil Walsh has been incredibly vocal during sessions, letting it be known exactly what he wants and expects. With the club yet to iron out its tackling issues, the skill has proved an early emphasis, but Walsh's main focus has been on maintaining training benchmarks. 'Elite standards' has become somewhat of a catchphrase early in his tenure as coach as he tries to instill a work ethic in the playing group that reflects his own. Usual suspects Rory Sloane and Patrick Dangerfield have led the way, as has Taylor Walker and Brad Crouch. Sam Kerridge's aerobic capacity has also been on full show.
Training return: January 5
Community Camp: Port Lincoln, March 2-3
NAB Challenge games: Game one, v North Melbourne, Centenary Oval, Port Lincoln, Sunday, March 1, 4.10pm
Game two, v Geelong, Simonds Stadium, Geelong, Thursday, March 12, 7.10pm
Game three, v Port Adelaide, AAMI Stadium, Adelaide, Saturday, March 21, 3.40pm)
Round one: v North Melbourne, Adelaide Oval, April 5, 2.50pm - Harry Thring

BRISBANE LIONS
Pre-season so far: Almost the perfect pre-season to date as Justin Leppitsch integrates 13 new faces into his team. Daniel Rich (knee), Jack Redden (ankle), Matthew Leuenberger (knee) and Brent Staker (calf) have all trained strongly after missing much of 2014, while off-season recruits Dayne Beams, Allen Christensen and Mitch Robinson have not missed a beat. The only hiccup has been a hamstring injury to young defender Justin Clarke who will return in late January. The Lions bypassed a pre-season training camp to Arizona (they took the entire team last year), in preference to a team-building four-day camp at Noosa on Queensland's Sunshine Coast.
Training return: January 5
Community Camp: Sunshine Coast (Maroochydore to Maryborough/Gympie), February 10-11
NAB Challenge games: Game one v St Kilda, Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex, Burpengary, Saturday, February 28, 3.10pm
Game two v Sydney Swans, C.ex Co*** International Stadium, Co*** Harbour, Friday, March 6, 7.10pm
Game three v Gold Coast, Metricon Stadium, Friday, March 20, 7.40pm.
Round one: v Collingwood, Gabba, Saturday, April 4, 6.20pm - Michael Whiting

What's your club's possible round one line-up?

CARLTON
Pre-season so far: This pre-season has contrasted starkly with the Blues' preparation for last season. For a start, there are very few injuries to report – Kristian Jaksch (foot) could be training in January while Cameron Giles (foot) will take longer – which is a dramatic improvement on last year when almost half the list underwent post-season surgery. And due to the football department cap the Blues decided against doing altitude training in Arizona for a third successive year, and will instead slog it out at Mt Buller, in Victoria's alpine region, in late January. Rob Wiley, Carlton's director of development and coaching, said the Blues have focused on refining their game plan and improving their ball use, defensive mechanisms and endurance, with an emphasis on game-related drills. Wiley said the leaders have been setting the standard, with veteran Chris Judd in the Blues' top-three before leaving for an overseas holiday. Others to impress include Lachie Henderson, Levi Casboult and Tom Bell, while youngsters Troy Menzel and Patrick Cripps are well advanced on last year.
Training return: January 6
Community Camp: Shepparton, February 17-18
NAB Challenge games: Game one, v West Coast, Rushton Park, Mandurah, Friday, February 27, 4.10pm WST
Game two, v Collingwood, Queen Elizabeth Oval, Bendigo, Sunday March 15, 4:40pm
Game three, v Geelong, Etihad Stadium, Sunday March 22, 4:10pm
Round one: v Richmond, MCG, Thursday April 2, 7.20pm - Ben Collins

COLLINGWOOD
Pre-season so far: After last year's horror run with injury, the Magpies have been careful to manage their players this pre-season. A number of players, coming back from long-term injuries, are on restricted programs, including Brent Macaffer (knee), Matt Scharenberg (knee), Dane Swan (hip), Scott Pendlebury (shoulder) and Jonathan Marsh (hamstring). The curious tale of Ben Reid continues to baffle, after he injured his "good" calf at training last Monday. The injury is set to sideline him for up to six weeks. First-round draft pick Jordan De Goey has impressed with his competitiveness, while former Cat Travis Varcoe looks slick on the track. The Magpies' first-to-fourth-year players had a gruelling pre-season camp in early November, while the whole squad will head to Queenstown in late January.
Training return: January 5
Community Camp: Bendigo/North Central (March 16-17)
NAB Challenge games: Game one, v Hawthorn, Aurora Stadium, Thursday, February 26, 7.10pm (EDT)
Game two v Carlton, Queen Elizabeth Oval, Bendigo, Sunday March 15, 4.40pm (EDT)
Game three v Western Bulldogs, Etihad Stadium, Sunday March 21, 7.10pm (EDT)
Round one: v Brisbane Lions, The Gabba, April 4, 6.20pm - Ben Guthrie

Collingwood players go for a run on the club's Falls Creek camp in November. Picture: AFL Media


ESSENDON
Pre-season so far: The Bombers have cut back on their overseas high-altitude training camps to have a "meat and potatoes" pre-season, as returning coach James Hird described it. Just four players (captain Jobe Watson, Cale Hooker, Michael Hurley and Michael Hibberd) were sent to Boulder, Colorado for a burst of high-altitude training. Injury-wise the club avoided too many off-season surgeries, and Tom Bellchambers has made steady progress after a second operation on his troublesome ankle. They'll need the ruckman firing next season after the departure of Paddy Ryder to Port Adelaide.
Training return: January 5
Community Camp: Sunbury, Riddell, Macedon Ranges – February 9-10
NAB Challenge games: Game one v St Kilda, Morwell Recreation Reserve, Morwell, Saturday, March 7, 4.40pm
Game two v GWS Giants, Spotless Stadium, Friday, March 13, 7.10pm
Game three v Melbourne, Etihad Stadium, Friday, March 20, 5.50pm
Round one: v Sydney Swans, ANZ Stadium, Saturday, April 4, 4.35pm - Callum Twomey

FREMANTLE
Pre-season so far: Ross Lyon promised a demanding pre-season and that’s exactly what he’s delivered so far. The Dockers have trained hard since the full squad returned on December 1 but the players prepared themselves well during the off-season. They have incorporated more football work into the early part of pre-season in conjunction with the running. Tendai Mzungu and Matt de Boer dominated the 3km time trial and veterans Matthew Pavlich, Luke McPharlin and Aaron Sandilands have returned in good shape. Nat Fyfe suffered a shoulder injury ahead of November’s International Rules Series but he will be in full training after Christmas. Garrick Ibbotson is close to a full return from shoulder surgery. Michael Johnson (back), Zac Clarke (knee), Max Duffy (shoulder), Anthony Morabito (knee) and Colin Sylvia (ankle) are still on restricted duties but all are progressing well.
Training return: January 5
Community Camp: Geraldton and Mortlock, February 18-19
NAB Challenge games: Game one, v Melbourne, Fremantle Oval, Perth, Thursday, March 5, 4.10pm.
Game two, v Sydney Swans, Drummoyne Oval, Sydney, Sunday, March 15, 4.10pm.
Game three, v West Coast, Patersons Stadium, Perth, Sunday, March 22, 4.10pm.
Round one: v Port Adelaide, Patersons Stadium, Sunday April 5, 2.40pm. - Alex Malcolm

GEELONG
Pre-season so far: Unlike previous seasons, the Cats have decided to stay local for their pre-season. Under newly appointed strength and conditioning coach Scott Murphy, who worked in a similar role when in charge of the Australian Wallabies, Geelong is focusing on more long-distance based running this summer. The Cats identified a lack of fitness for their late-game lapses in 2014 and are attempting to get as many kilometres into the players' legs as possible. The kidney injury to Jackson Thurlow, whose return date remains unclear, is a blow considering the smooth-moving wingman probably commands a place in Geelong's best 22.
Training return: January 5
Community Camp: Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast, Mininera Mortlake (February 23-24)
NAB Challenge games: Game one, v Gold Coast, Tony Ireland Stadium, Townsville, Sunday, March 1, 3.40pm (EST)
Game two, v Adelaide, Simonds Stadium, Thursday March 12, 7.10pm (EDT)
Game three, v Carlton, Etihad Stadium, Sunday March 22, 4.10pm (EDT)
Round one: v Hawthorn, MCG, April 6, 3.20pm - Ben Guthrie

GOLD COAST
Pre-season so far: Rodney Eade has had a tricky initiation as Suns coach, with a number of his star players having already missed some work. Gary Ablett (shoulder) should resume contact work early in the new year, while big men Zac Smith, Charlie Dixon and Tom Nicholls still recover from various ailments. Jaeger O'Meara (knees) is still recovering from surgery and racing the clock for round one, while Dion Prestia (hamstring) and Harley Bennell (calf) overcame minor setbacks. After three years of pre-season altitude camps in Arizona, the Suns have stayed on the Gold Coast so Eade can bed down his gameplan. With most players now fit enough and strong enough to handle the rigours of an AFL season, there has been a greater emphasis on using footballs this pre-season, as Eade tries to sharpen the Suns' skills.
Training return: January 7
Community Camp: Townsville, Mackay, Byron Bay, March 2-3
NAB Challenge games: Game one, v Geelong, Tony Ireland Sadium, Townsville, Sunday, March 1, 3.40pm
Game two, v GWS Giants, Blacktown, Saturday, March 7, 4.10pm
Game three, v Brisbane Lions, Metricon Stadium, Friday, March 20, 7.40pm.
Round one: v Melbourne, MCG, Saturday, April 4, 1.40pm - Michael Whiting

GWS
Pre-season so far: The ambitious Giants have made no secret of their desire to push for finals if not next year, then 2016, and a big pre-season program is crucial in those plans. With key forward Jon Patton and tall defender Tim Mohr in rehab from knee reconstructions, it would have pleased coach Leon Cameron to see big man Adam Tomlinson win the 3km time trial for first-to-fourth year players on day one of pre-season. Midfielder Josh Kelly and small defender Tomas Bugg rounded out the podium. Liam Sumner (navicular stress fracture) and James Stewart (glandular fever) have suffered setbacks, but most of the squad trained to exhaustion at the club's gruelling pre-Christmas camp at Noosa.
Training return: January 5
Community Camp: Canberra and southern New South Wales, February 17-18.
NAB Challenge games: Game one, v Gold Coast, Blacktown, Saturday, March 7, 4.10pm.
Game two, v Essendon, Spotless Stadium, Friday, March 13, 7.10pm.
Game three, v Sydney Swans, Startrack Oval, Sunday, March 22, 1.10pm.
Round one: v St Kilda, Etihad Stadium, Sunday, April 5, 1.10pm. – Travis King

HAWTHORN
Pre-season so far: The premiership celebrations faded into memory once the Hawks' full squad returned to training on December 1. Several stars – including best and fairest Jordan Lewis and Isaac Smith - came back early to train with the younger brigade as recruits James Frawley and Jonathan O'Rourke settled into the new surroundings. Smith, Billy Hartung and Ben McEvoy resumed in outstanding nick and claimed the podium places in the 2km time trial, while spirits have been lifted by Jed Anderson and Brendan Whitecross taking positive steps in their injury rehabilitation. The Hawks earned their Christmas break during a brutal eight-day camp on the Sunshine Coast in mid-December.
Training return: Early January (estimate)
Community Camp: Tasmania, February 27-March 1.
NAB Challenge games: Game one, v Collingwood, Aurora Stadium, Launceston, Thursday, February 26, 7.10pm.
Game two, v North Melbourne, Shepparton, Sunday, March 8, 4.10pm.
Game three, v St Kilda, Etihad Stadium, Thursday, March 19, 7.10pm.
Round one: v Geelong, MCG, Monday, April 6, 3.20pm. – Travis King

Ex-Demon James Frawley has begun his life as a Hawk in strong training form. Picture: Getty Images


MELBOURNE
Pre-season so far: Began training informally before other clubs and then stepped it up pre-Christmas with some serious running drills preceding skill sessions. Wise heads rated a late November running session as the club's hardest session ever. Jesse Hogan was working hard and Jimmy Toumpas is making every effort to justify his high draft selection, while Jack Trengove and Jack Watts were the biggest names on a tiny rehabilitation group. The players also undertook a form of the Paleo diet in an attempt to improve player energy levels. With very little dead wood on the list now, the Demons heads to the Sunshine Coast and Casey to continue training in January because soccer's Asian Cup is being played at AAMI Park.
Training return: January 5
Community Camp: Leongatha/Wonthaggi February 11/12
NAB Challenge games: Game one v Fremantle, Fremantle Oval, Thursday March 5, 4.10pm WST
Game two v Western Bulldogs, Eureka Stadium, Ballarat, Saturday March 14, 4.10pm EDT
Game three v Essendon, Etihad Stadium, Friday March 20, 5.50pm EDT.
Round one: v Gold Coast, MCG, Saturday April 4, 1.40pm - Peter Ryan

NORTH MELBOURNE
Pre-season so far: The Roos scaled back their annual Utah training camp this year, with just 13 players making the trip to train at high altitude for two weeks in November. The group consisted mainly of North's younger players, but skipper Andrew Swallow, Daniel Wells and Jack Ziebell also went, all keen to make an early start to the pre-season after their injury-interrupted 2014 seasons. The rest of North's group remained at home and started their pre-season later than usual, given the club's preliminary final appearance this year. The Roos hit the ground running, incorporating much of their conditioning work into lung-busting skills sessions. Sam Gibson, Ryan Bastinac and Mason Wood were again the Roos' best performers in the club's opening 2km time trial last week, while former Western Bulldog Shaun Higgins and second-year midfielder Trent Dumont have impressed with their fitness. Key forwards Drew Petrie (ankle), Ben Brown (knee) and Robbie Tarrant (tibia) are not expected to return to full training until after Christmas, while defender Lachlan Hansen (hip) is eyeing a return in mid to late January. Ziebell and Aaron Black both had post-season shoulder surgery, but have been able to do all of the distance and repetition running.
Training return: January 5
Community Camp: Hobart and Werribee, February 19-20
NAB Challenge games: Game one v Adelaide, Centenary Oval, Port Lincoln, Sunday, March 1, 4.10pm ACDT Game two v Hawthorn, Deakin Reserve, Shepparton, Sunday, March 8, 4.10pm AEDT
Game three v Richmond, Etihad Stadium, Saturday, March 21, 1.10pm AEDT
Round one: v Adelaide, Adelaide Oval, April 5, 2.50pm - Nick Bowen

PORT ADELAIDE
Pre-season so far: Not content with a preliminary final exit in 2014, the Power vowed to amp up their pre-season training and have followed through on their promise. An eight-day camp in Dubai took players to the very edge of what they though thought physically possible. From day one it was clear Port's players were keen for a big summer when most ran personal best times in their 3km time trial with veteran Kane Cornes leading the way. Ollie Wines has been in outstanding touch this summer, slimming down as he enters his third season. But Wines isn't alone; skipper Travis Boak, Brad Ebert, Robbie Gray and Karl Amon are just a few who are flying.
Training return: January 3
Community Camp: Barossa Valley, February 16-17
NAB Challenge games: Game one, v West Coast, Norwood Oval, Adelaide, Sunday, March 8, 4.10pm
Game two, v Richmond, Lavington Sports Ground, Albury, Saturday, March 14, 4.40pm
Game three, v Adelaide, AAMI Stadium, Adelaide, Saturday, March 21, 3.40pm)
Round one: v Fremantle, Patersons Stadium, April 5, 4.40pm - Harry Thring

RICHMOND
Pre-season so far: Richmond's youngsters started back on November 10 but most of the older players filtered through and took part in training sessions before their official return two weeks later. Only Steven Morris (shoulder), Matt Thomas (knee) and Ben Lennon (hip) started on modified programs after surgery and Tiger fans would have been buoyed by a fit Ivan Maric starting well and looking like he'll avoid the type of disjointed pre-season he endured last year. As a group, they headed to Townsville in early December for a week-long training camp that finished with an "Amazing Race"-type challenge, which tested the players in a range of physical tasks over three days. The pinnacle of the camp was an 8km kayak race to Magnetic Island and back before they finished off with an arduous hike that saw captain Trent Cotchin – who confirmed a five-year contract extension while on the camp – disband the teams so the challenge could be finished with all the players working together.
Training return: January 5.
Community Camp: East Gippsland (Bairnsdale/Lakes Entrance), February 10-11, 2015.
NAB Challenge games: Game one, v Western Bulldogs, Whitten Oval, Saturday February 28, 4.40pm
Game two v Port Adelaide, Lavington Sports Ground, Albury, Saturday March 14, 4.40pm
Game three v North Melbourne, Etihad Stadium, Saturday March 21, 1.10pm.
Round one: v Carlton, MCG, Thursday April 2, 7.20pm. - Jennifer Phelan

ST KILDA
Pre-season so far: St Kilda continues to build strong links with New Zealand, holding its December pre-season training camp in Queenstown. Players were put through a strenuous program of hiking, mountain bike riding, hill sprints and lengthy football sessions, with an early focus on game style. The club's new recruits have settled in well, with the promise from coach Alan Richardson that there will be opportunities for them in 2015. Team bonding was also a focus for the young group, with activities including white water rafting. Jarryn Geary and David Armitage have shone so far.
Training return: January 7.
Community Camp: Wellington, Christchurch and Auckland, December 1-3, Tyabb, December 1
NAB Challenge games: Game one v Brisbane Lions, Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex, Burpengary, Saturday, February 28, 3.10pm
Game two v Essendon, Morwell Recreation Reserve, Saturday, March 7, 4.40pm
Game three, v Hawthorn, Etihad Stadium, Thursday March 19, 7.10pm
Round one: v Greater Western Sydney, Etihad Stadium, Sunday, April 5, 1.10pm - Nathan Schmook

Jarryn Geary in action during St Kilda's pre-season training. Picture: AFL Media



SYDNEY SWANS
Pre-season so far: Given his testing results at the NAB AFL Combine, it was no great surprise to see running man Jack Hiscox take out the first 3km time trial of the pre-season with the first-to-fourth-year players. The draftee backed up that effort with another win when the full list convened. Dan Hannebery was the pick of the more senior players, while youngsters Tom Mitchell, Lloyd Perris, Harry Cunningham and Dane Rampe have shown strong improvement. The Swans are keeping their pre-season based in Sydney, with a mix of running, boxing and skills sessions prominent so far. Alex Johnson is making slow progress with his knee injury, jumping a few hurdles and working to clear infection. The good news is he is the only Swan sidelined.
Training return: January 5
Community Camp: Wollongong, Bowral, Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Gosford, Tamworth, Armidale, Wagga Wagga and Sydney metro locations, February 23-24
NAB Challenge games: Game one v Brisbane Lions, C.ex Co*** International Stadium, Friday, March 6, 7.10pm
Game two v Fremantle, Drummoyne Oval, Sydney, Sunday, March 15, 4.10pm
Game three v Greater Western Sydney, Startrack Oval, Sunday, March 22, 4.10pm
Round one: v Essendon, ANZ Stadium, Saturday, April 4, 4.35pm – Nathan Schmook

WEST COAST
Pre-season so far: The most notable aspect of the Eagles' pre-season to-date is the size that has been added to a number of players. Coach Adam Simpson suggested his midfield needed to add bulk and they have followed instructions by working exceptionally hard in the gym during the off-season. It has not affected the squad’s running ability, as many players have maintained or improved their 2km times. Draftee Damien Cavka created a stir when he broke Chris Masten's club record in the 2km time trial. The Eagles have continued to work hard on their ball movement, carrying on the process that Simpson began in his first pre-season in charge. The Eagles do have some injury concerns though. Scott Selwood required another ankle clean out and Callum Sinclair suffered a serious finger dislocation. Eric Mackenzie (hip), Sharrod Wellingham (knee), Elliot Yeo (hand), Xavier Ellis (AC joint), Matt Rosa (pectoral muscle), Jeremy McGovern (hip) and Jack Darling (foot) have all been eased through the early part of pre-season.
Training return: January 5
Community Camp: Bunbury, February 10-11
NAB Challenge Games: Game one, v Carlton, Rushton Park, Mandurah, Friday, February 27, 4.10pm
Game two, v Port Adelaide, Norwood Oval, Adelaide, Sunday, March 8, 4.10pm
Game three, v Fremantle, Patersons Stadium, Perth, Sunday, March 22, 4.10pm
Round one: v Western Bulldogs, Etihad Stadium, Saturday April 4, 7.20pm - Alex Malcolm

WESTERN BULLDOGS
Pre-season so far: New coach Luke Beveridge has close to a full list on the training track with several players starting the pre-season strongly after post-season surgeries. Jordan Roughead and Fletcher Roberts have resumed full training following shoulder reconstructions at the end of the season, while 2013 draftee Matt Fuller is being eased back in after shoulder surgery. Clay Smith is the only player not in the main group as he continues his recovery from a knee reconstruction. Young gun Marcus Bontempelli has been an early flyer, adding a whopping 7kg to his already imposing frame. Lachie Hunter has been another strong performer with the youngster winning the opening 2km time trial ahead of Bontempelli and Mitch Wallis. High-profile recruit Tom Boyd had a delayed start to training after having his appendix removed.
Training return: Early January
Community Camp: Ballarat, March 4-5
NAB Challenge Games: Game one, v Richmond, Whitten Oval, Saturday, February 28, 4.40pm
Game two, v Melbourne, Eureka Stadium, Ballarat, Saturday, March 14, 4.10pm
Game three, v Collingwood, Etihad Stadium, Saturday, March 21, 7.10pm
Round one: v West Coast, Etihad Stadium, Saturday April 4, 7.20pm
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the AFL or its clubs

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[Philzsay]

The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the AFL or its clubs

I always find this disclaimer at the end of an AFL article funny.

Some of the above training updates are simply just a cleverly written paragraph mentioning a couple of points from that's club PR marketing fluff articles over the last few weeks, plus an update on the state of certain players injuries. Not a great lot of actual views or opinions. I don't blame the authors though, they often have too much on their plates to be expected and allowed by their employer to attend training every week.

Training reports on various fan forums are some much more interesting and informative.

 

[freowho]

I always find this disclaimer at the end of an AFL article funny.

Some of the above training updates are simply just a cleverly written paragraph mentioning a couple of points from that's club PR marketing fluff articles over the last few weeks, plus an update on the state of certain players injuries. Not a great lot of actual views or opinions. I don't blame the authors though, they often have too much on their plates to be expected and allowed by their employer to attend training every week.

Training reports on various fan forums are some much more interesting and informative.

Fluff. Good word.

Everybody is firing, every player is posting personal bests! They could make me sound good for round 1.

It's only worth listening to when they say a player won't be right for round 1.

 

[anfa18]

I don't blame the authors though, they often have too much on their plates to be expected and allowed by their employer to attend training every week.

It's fine to have a disclaimer but most readers ignore it and just take the article as fact. If the journalist refuses to write fact only due to "work load", well then their journalistic integrity means nothing. This is why no one likes Caroline Wilson, she spills her guts on an issue when a "source" tells her one side of an issue that actually has 4 or 5 sides. Have we not learnt anything from the Essendon saga? Every man and his dog has an opinion, without actually knowing half of the facts. This is a huge problem in all forms of journalism and it will only get worse when there appears to be minimal or no consequences.

 

[yakka]

Early start a boost for Dan
Swans Media - Tanya Paolucci December 16, 2014 3:51 PM

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SwansTV: Hannebery pre-break catch up SwansTV chats to Sydney Swans midfielder Dan Hannebery ahead of the pre-season Christmas break

Dan Hannebery completes a near-PB on his first day back
An early start to his fitness campaign during an off-season European break has helped prepare Dan Hannebery for a big attack on this pre-season.

Hannebery posted an impressive run in his first three-kilometre time-trial for the pre-season at the beginning of December, which was just short of his personal best time.

After experiencing an injury-interrupted 2014 season, which saw the midfielder miss six matches with an ankle syndesmosis injury, the 23-year-old said he made fitness his number one priority during the off-season break.

“I’m feeling pretty fit at this time of year,” Hannebery told SwansTV on Tuesday.

“I think I had a good build up and in my off-season I really made it my plan to come back in top condition and I probably haven’t done that in a couple of years.

“The fitness guys gave me a good three-and-a-half to four weeks off, which was handy after a full season and after having a few injuries as well.

“But in the last week of my Europe travels I decided to knuckle down a little bit more and spend a few days in England with my cousin.

“I had a good, solid week of training over there before I came back to Sydney, which held me in good stead.”

While his commitment to fitness at the end of his break played an important role in his first-up performance on the track, the arrival of a host of new draftees has also helped spur Hannebery to achieve his best.

The Swans’ number four said draftee Jack Hiscox, who holds an 800-metre national title, added another dimension to the club’s competitive running drills and has challenged him to step up his efforts.

“Certainly he (Hiscox) jumped out of the blocks in that three k-er and he was flying,” Hannebery said.

“You could sort of see how far ahead he was and what you could certainly aspire to.

“The other day he also drove a fair few of the boys along when we were doing 300-metre runs and I think ‘Macca’ (Jarrad McVeigh) had a go at (catching) him and I had a go at him, so we’re all sort of working together to try and knock him over.

“I think if someone who is that good of an athlete can certainly help to drive the group, it helps us with our running, and certainly the other day all the boys were having a go at him, so it was good to have him there.”

It’s not just Hiscox who has caught the attention of Hannebery and the senior group, with fellow draftees Isaac Heeney, James Rose and Abe Davis all showing glimpses of their best in the pre-Christmas sessions.

Hannebery said Heeney in particular had been a stand out, and backed him to challenge for a spot in the senior side in 2015.

“I’ve seen a little bit more of Isaac Heeney and have done some one-on-one running with him and some wrestling,” he said.

“He had me covered for a few of them, but I had him covered for the next few.

“He’s a good young kid and he works really hard and I can certainly see him slotting into the midfield at some stage.

“He’s a big kid for an 18-year-old and I’ve really been impressed with how fit he is.

“I could see someone like Isaac fitting straight into the team if he has a good pre-season and sticks to his role, so he is someone who has really impressed me.”

Reflecting on the first three weeks back at training, Hannebery said he felt the entire squad had stepped up the intensity, and were determined to produce a strong season after a disappointing end to 2014.

On a personal note, the 2010 AFL Rising Star said he hoped to produce a more consistent 2015 after a slow start last season.

“Individually I think it’s important just to have a consistent pre-season and start the year off a lot better than I did last year,” Hannebery said.

“From there, I just need to play my role and also be consistent for the whole year.”

 

[Grant]

Kreuzer article:
http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-12-22/kreuzers-cap-fits

I don't like the quote at the side from a fantasy or Carlton fan perspective. If he plays with Warnock or Wood and plays forward often (as hinted) he has little to no fantasy value. Scores something like 20-25pts more when playing purely as the no.1 ruck.

 

[IDIG]

Completely agree Grant, becomes very SC irrelevant now.