Well it was a fantastic way to finish the year with both the Reserves and Seniors knocking off St Kevins sides that will play finals football. Both teams played as well as they have all year and there was a real buzz about the place with supporters already talking about season 2013. Over the three sides, we finished with exactly a 50% strike rate - 27 wins from 54 matches. The last part of the season saw the club win all of eight games which is a fantastic platform for next year. In fact the Seniors won seven of their last nine games.
But what about season 2012? It started off with some new coaches and plenty of fresh faces amongst the playing fraternity. And it was a season of mixed results - some brilliant football but at times some poor performances that were to cost us the right to play finals football. But on our day, usually the days of high self belief, we could beat the best. We defeated the top three sides during the year, but struggled to beat those around us. The wins over Beauy (twice) and Blacks were clear highlights, while Saturdays wins, from a club's perspective were right up there. The boys were on top for most of the day in last Saturday's clash. The visitors charged at the start of the last quarter but the boys held firm and indeed kicked the last seven goals for the game. Will McTaggert proved what an enigma he is with an outstanding display in the last quarter. But the win was set up by the performance of a solid mid field led by Gledders and Hammer - the co captains who have done a magnificent job all year. They were well supported by Brede Seccull and Nashy who demonstrated a solid return to form after a serious illness. The defence held firm as they have throughout the year with the opposition only scoring eight goals.
Seniors
Old Haileybury |
2 |
1 |
13 |
5 |
3 |
33 |
8 |
5 |
53 |
17 |
7 |
109 |
St Kevins |
2 |
2 |
14 |
4 |
5 |
29 |
6 |
8 |
44 |
8 |
9 |
57 |
Goal Kickers: T. Ridgway 4, W. McTaggart 4, B. Seccull 2, J. Nicolopoulos 2, H. McLauchlan , C. Millard , M. Stowe , D. Comben , M. Lillie
Best Players: P. Gleadhill, B. Seccull, L. Nash, J. Nicolopoulos, A. Woltering, N. Gooda
The Reserves really finished the year off well with a "come from behind" win over top placed St Kevins. The lads kicked five goals in the last quarter. Andy Mathers and Mark Seccull both capped off fine seasons with excellent performances with Sec's last minute goal to be talked about for years.
Reserves
Old Haileybury |
1 |
4 |
10 |
4 |
8 |
32 |
8 |
10 |
58 |
13 |
11 |
89 |
St Kevins |
5 |
1 |
31 |
7 |
3 |
45 |
10 |
5 |
65 |
11 |
5 |
71 |
Old Haileybury
Goal Kickers: A. Mathers 3, P. Hutchinson 2, R. Mosbey 2, S. Fitzgerald , M. Seccull , D. Gilby , R. McMurray , J. Spanos , T. Coles
Best Players: A. Mathers, M. Seccull, R. Mosbey, C. Hill, D. Mackenzie, R. Mathers
I will leave the season's micro and individual analysis to those that know more about the game than me. For moi, I just love watching the Bloods going around, the high fives and encouragement when a goal is scored, the personalities that shine on game day and the camaraderie displayed when singing the song or having a yack in the rooms afterwards. Of course this all oozes when winning and that is what we strive for. We gain respect when we win and even more admiration when displaying some humility which the boys do well.
The players did the jumper proud and it is a rare occasion for club dignitaries to have to front the tribunal. And when we did, our fine record held us in good stead. This reflects our standing in the football community and something we should be proud of and aim to retain - as individuals and as a club.
Congratulations to all the coaching staff who have worked so tirelessly for the last nine months in getting the boys on the paddock. It takes a lot of commitment and everyone involved in the coaching realms should be recognized.The senior coaching panel, led by Darren Seccull, continued the club tradition of having passionate people in charge and that ultimately leads to success. Probably at times frustrated, the boys stuck to their guns, made some hard decisions, (some tactical beauties like moving Corey Millard to CHF on Saturday) and certainly led the group well. We ended up with a positive ledger and clearly there are optimistic signs for the years to come. Well done guys.
One of the real pleasing aspects of the year was the ongoing improvement for the Ressies. Congratulations have to be extended to Craig Brockley and Mal McLauchlan who have done a fantastic job over the last few years building a side passionate about playing for each other and the club. This was clearly on display on Saturday and demonstarted how far we have come this year. Pitch and Kighty were deservedly chaired off the ground as they have both seen the dark days, where only their spirit got them onto the ground - days to which we shall not return.
The U/19s had a bit of a rollercoaster season on the field but certainly had a great time off the paddock and in each others company. The future looks bright with the expectation that many of them will be donning the magenta and black for many years to come. They were well supported by a passionate army of parents and it was terrific to see this group enjoying their sons' exploits. Well done to Matt Mitchell who won the competition's goal scoring in a personal milestone. Both he and Luke Pinot made the team of the year for the Division. Coach Dale Anderson bought the technical age to coaching with the ipad game planner and did a fantastic job getting the boys up each week.
So much is done off the field that has to be recognized. It was remiss of me not to publicly acknowledge these efforts after the game on Saturday but everyone was having a good time and didn't want to hear from me! Anyway, this forum probably has a bigger audience.
To Keith first of all who simply does an amazing job in all his handy work around the place. He never ceases to amaze - with his opening comment to me on Saturday lamenting the fact that the juniors had helped themselves to some of our chips behind the bar - Morning Keith! Anyway the place would not function without him and it is so pleasing to see him recovered from his earlier illnesses and retain his enthusiasm and knowledge of Haileybury Football - whether it be reflected in soup recipes for Tuesday night (not sure about the pea and ham), line marking or local government issues. He is the one who cleans the rooms when everyone is gone, marks all the grounds, lugs the gear to away games and as mentioned keeps the place ticking over. Thank you once again Keith.
Of course these days he is supported by Mr Moo, Carl Krechman, The Bear. They are up there with the best of the dynamic duos - Batman and Robin, Huey and Louy, Abbott and Costello and any number of grumpy old men. The Bear supplied nearly all of our dietary requirements for the year in a truly magnanimous display. His constant calls to coaching staff and personnel demonstrated his passion for the place.
The other dynamic duo are the two special ladies in the kitchen/canteen. Ably supported by husband Geoff and the band of women warriors, Felicity Wigg and Sue Connell have once again done a sterling job. People should not underestimate the effort they put in and the financial repercussions for the club. Every home game without fail they are there and their only request is some light refreshment at high noon!
There are so many others to thank - physios, Barry Carson and Jim Bonwick as goal umpires, boundary umpires, Mary on the time keeping, Bonnas's Band of Helpers, the Seccull clans, and the list goes on - The Doyle brothers (not just for Tony's money gathering ability), the luncheon BBQ boys, team managers, scoreboard operators, and the most passionate umpire steward in the game - Peter Jenke. You are all very much appreciated and the club is truly grateful.
A big thank you to the committee of 2012. I think we have worked together well. Brett Carson has done fine job answering VAFA and Glen Eira enquiries, Tony Mitchem has managed to hopefully balance the books and Dale has been instrumental in ensuring we had an active and fun social agenda - the Ball being a highlight. Everyone has contributed and I look forward to working with you all again next year in some capacity.
All of our sponsors should be acknowledged. They provide exceptional financial support for the club without which we would struggle to survive. It is important they receive something in return so please take another look at the directory and use their services wherever possible. We have sponsors from all industries so you are bound to find what you require.
We have embarked on a couple of new endeavours this year. The Past Players Association was a resounding success in its inaugural year so a big thank you must go to Southa and Evil. We have the opportunity to create something special. Similarly, Southa and Dale must be thanked for their efforts in decorating the rooms at each home. It was a great initiative to have the history on display. Our relationship with our co-tenants continues to improve.
Next year we intend fielding a Thirds side which is another sign of the club heading in the right direction. Indeed the club's path is a key focus at the moment and we shall be spending much time and effort over the next period ensuring we are set up for a positive future. We will retain our strong links with the school, which will continue to be the lifeblood of the club. We look for any thoughts or contributions you may have.
Coming up we have the AFL Grand Final Breakfast on the 29th of September. This is an important fund raiser for the club so your support would be appreciated. Details are attached for what is always a great morning. This year we have our very own Sergio Paradise as MC, with Marty Fields and Stephen Allison the comedians - two of the best. A table of 10 can be purchased for $125ph. You can book via the clubs store here - http://www.clubdata.com.au/Club/old-haileyburians-amateur-football-club.aspx
We shall very soon be announcing dates for the Presentation Night and AGM.
Don't forget to book your place at the OHA Football Lunch as the RSVP date is this Friday.
And finally to all the club's supporters. On behalf of the committee, coaches, staff and players, a big thank you for following the mighty magenta and black. There was a brilliant atmosphere at McKinnon on Saturday and our communal aim is to ensure that is the vibe every week in 2013.
Last Modified on 13/04/2013 21:45