Ice said:
Can you please give a bit more info on what was said?
Do they ever train with the AFL list? If so, how often. Maybe a select few?
How often do they train as a VFL group? I assume it is after 5 pm?
Do they train with the other clubs they play with?
I also wonder the payment details - I suppose a base fee and amounts per game played?
I am just interested in how they integrate with the AFL list, if at all.
Thanks in advance for any info
Ice
They didn't touch on those things.
As people have said, Richo MC'd. Did a very good job. Was amusing. Got stuck into Benny Gale and Dimma on all the overseas junkets in the off season.
Benny Gale announced that VFL games would be played at Punt Road.
Dimma gave a brief speech on what he has been doing since the season's end. Also spoke briefly about the benefits of having a dedicated AFL team. Praise for Cambo for working hard to set it up, and for coming up with the catch phrase "One club, two teams".
Then the new listed players plus rookies were introduced. All were brought out on stage. Lennon spoke first. He talked about his time with the club earlier in the year, getting to know the boys, expecting to train hard and play where he is needed - mentioned half forward, half back and in the midfield when he has built up fitness/engine. Hampson and Thomas also briefly spoke. Hampson was told in no uncertain terms by Richo that there should be no glowing references to the Blues as "we hate the Blues". Crowd cheered! Hampson talked about supporting Ivvy and playing up forward when needed. Spoke about the selectors looking at the match ups for other teams, and deciding who matches up better on the day - he, Ivvy etc ... Thomas talked about being reunited with many of the Port Adelaide staff who are now with Richmond, and cracked a funny gag about getting cuddles from "Chock" (o).
Then the VFL coach and team were brought out and introduced. As others have already said, the talk was mainly about the benefits of having a dedicated VFL team. How this would benefit the seniors - through better coaching and preparation for younger players to move up to the senior team. We were told that the VFL listed players would use the Punt Road facilities and would train with the senior players and would have dedicated staff and stewards. They would be made to feel and would be part of the club. No mention was made of payment/money. Ross Young spoke about his background and his time at Carlton and Perth. Was asked about his leadership style - and said he was pretty quiet / not fire and brimstone - and led by example.
Hopefully I have accurately reported on what was said. Happy to be corrected if not.
Good event. Agree with others on the food and beverages. Was plentiful and high quality.
Lots and lots (and lots) of Jeep Grand Cherokees in the carpark. Jeep are obviously very generous handing out the cars to the players. There were a couple of white ones there (which in my view is a fail). Gotta be black or grey if you are going to drive a car like that. Saw Foley on my way in. He does not drive a Jeep. ;D His car is more to my liking. Saw Dusty and Grigga leaving as I was heading out. Dusty is one intimidating boy! Grigga not so much :hihi