PLACE Preview - Colts back at the nest in 2016

The boys are back in town! 

Magpies U/19 Colts return

After having a transition year in 2015 where the club chose to bypass the new u/19's competition, the Magpies’ Colts are back for the 2016 season.  The 2015 transition was successful for the young Magpie brigade, with the the U/17 side winning the Division 1 Undefeated Premiership and a fleet of youngsters tasted Senior footy both through the Reserves program and in the Senior QAFL side.

The club's new facilities, clear development pathway, and exciting young senior list has attracted quality young footballers from as far away as Townsville & Hervey Bay.  With many ex-junior Magpies coming back to the nest after a year or two away and combining with the graduating Under 17's from last year, it means the club can confidently re-enter the Colts competition for 2016. 

The Colts competition is made up of a single division 19 team 16 round season. It's a new concept with a weighted draw as the 19 teams are divided into 4 zones. It's all a bit too detailed to attempt to explain here, but it means that the Magpies will play 11 games against the same QAFL clubs as the senior teams, and 5 other games against a selection of the other sides based in Sth East Queensland. 

Our squad is shaping up nicely,  with 2 clear objectives:

(1) providing the development pathway for our youth footy graduates to transition into the senior football and;  

(2) provide a footballing home for our lads who still want to compete at the best available standard without the need to push up into the more elite seniors program.

This is also the goal of the AFLQ for this competition-to keep these young men in the game who otherwise would be lost to football. The under 19s will also be mentored by Senior Coach Glenn Humphrey and Development Coach Quentin Johnson to ensure the pathway to senior football is as smooth as possible for all player seeking to make that transition.  

The club is very excited by the potential within this group with some of the Colts seeking to earn senior debuts this season such as Lachie Dennis, Jake Farrell, & Charlie Pershouse. It's our hope they will be joined by Big Alex Devilla and John Mason when they return from long term knee injuries and along with a strong band of mid sized running players, could see them join Sam Copland , Riley Easton & Matt Mazarolle as Colts who are making an impact at Senior level.

The coaching group includes last year’s Under 17's premiership coach, Justin Gore,  who will be joined by the vastly experienced and successful Craig Allen as midfield and stoppage coach.

The club has given a coaching debut to club stalwart Warren Vine, who will bring his knowledge gained from a long and varied playing career including stints at Under 19's and Reserves level with Port Adelaide Magpies , and Senior experience in South Australian A1 Amateurs  and also country football in South Australia. Warren will be working with our defence and teaching the same structures used by the senior squad. We plan on adding 1 more quality development coach to this group soon. 

The colts are still on the lookout for a TEAM MANAGER to join this exciting group. If you have read this far, you are the type of person we need for that job. Please put your hand up and help us provide the best possible off field support for these lads and they will repay you and us all with a season to remember ...of that the club is absolutely certain.  

Metis Wealth Match Review - Pies down in windy conditions

The Western Magpies went down in their first pre-season hit out when defeated by Wilston Grange at a windy O'Callaghan Park, Zillmere on Saturday evening. 

The Pies went down by 22 points, 10-4-64 to 6-6-42

The Pies dominated the first term but the strong winds proved difficult to handle and found the big sticks an elusive target on the big open ground. Grange managed a number of their goals on the rebound and made the most of their forward entries as the Pies dominated the inside 50s for little reward. 

New recruits in Nick Barling, Gareth Crawford, Ricky Dudley and Reece Bridge  were impressive and will slot in nicely to the Pies set-up. Barling had a good hit out in ruck, Crawford reminded us of a young Tom Power with a bustling display in and amongst it, Dudley showed class with good ball use across half back and Bridge also showed he will be a valuable defender and with his long flowing locks will be hard to miss. 

David Lewis slotted back well and showed enough across half forward to be a valuable inclusion while youngsters Jake Heard, Joel Workman and Riley Easton showed glimpses but were in and out of the game as the wind made it hard to put in consistent displays.

Despite the loss, the experienced Luke Scott, Val Pope and Drew Mitchell all had plenty of the football and full forward Alex Dickfos also presented well in difficult conditions to make the Pies hierarchy confident of another good year. 

The Pies were missing Callum Carseldine, Brent Staker, Matt Davis, Mitchell Stallard, Tim McEvoy and Cory Hopkins and youngsters Sam Copland and Charlie Pershouse were playing in a Queensland Academy trial match at Burpengary and the promising Lachie Dennis was rested due to a mild injury sustained at training.  All should be available for the Pies next match on Saturday against Morningside at Yeronga.

Coopers Community Footy Update

The Woodsmen commenced training in February and will be going around again in 2016 on the Queensland Amateur Central League on Friday nights.

The Woodsmen enjoy the social side of footy, but are a very competitive unit - playing finals every year since inception and winning 2 Premierships.

If you are unavailable to play footy on a Saturday, or like to keep your weekends free - the Woodsmen are the place to be.  Enjoy a relaxed training environment with plenty of like minded individuals who love a kick of the footy (and a beer or 3)

Catering for young and old, experienced players or players completely new to the game the Woodsmen will be looking to go one better in 2016 after finishing runner up in 2015.

Coached by Magpies legend - Chris Mihalopoulos and skippered by Magpies 2006 Premiership player and Woodsmen Dual Premiership Captain, Sean Toohey - The Woodies welcome everyone down for a kick at training on Monday and Wednesday nights at 7pm.

For more details, contact Woodsmen President - Andrew Thomson on 0403 066 382 or sponsorship@westernmagpies.com.au

Place Pre-Season Update - Magpies first practice match Sat 5 March

The Western Magpies commence their 2016 campaign with their first pre-season match on Saturday, March 5th at O'Callaghan Park, Zillmere commencing at 415pm.

Taking on Wilston Grange it will be a chance to put some of the pre-season work into action, especially for the youthful Magpies side.

The match will consist of 4 x 25min quarters with each team utilising 30 players.

The other match in the Pies side of the draw is Mt Gravatt v Morningside and the two winners will play each other and the the two losers will meet on Saturday, March 12th at venues to be announced.

The Pies will be without several key players with star recruit Brent Staker and Grogan medallist Callum Carseldine both sitting the game out.

24 Fit - Pre-Season Camp

The Magpies Senior squad embarked on a grueling and enjoyable(!) pre-season camp a few weeks back.

A little bit of the action was captured in this short video.  Great to see the boys working hard and enjoying themselves while doing it!

PLACE PRE-SEASON PREVIEW - Pies shaping up well for 2016

The Western Magpies are well positioned to improve on their QAFL third place finish in 2015 with strong recruiting in the off season.

Coach Glenn Humphrey is very happy with his recruits and the development of several younger players. The Pies were disappointed in their finals performances last year and with several big name and strong bodied experienced recruits the Pies will again be looking at a top three finish to give themselves the best shot at a premiership. 

Joining the club will be ex West Coast and Brisbane Lion big man Brent Staker, ruckman Nick Barling, half back Ricky Dudley, midfielder Gareth Crawford and half back Reece Bridge.

Club legend Jimmy Rozynski has returned to the nest but has had a setback with a shoulder injury which will require surgery. JRoz remains hopeful of joining the fray in the business end of the season. 

Brent Staker brings a wealth of AFL experience to the team and his height, experience and mobility will be a big asset and he will likely start across half forward.

Nick Barling is a tall ruckman who can go forward and he came through the Geelong Falcons Under 18s before joining Southport for 3 years and then last year played at Ipswich after gaining a teaching job at Springfield. With Dom Beer putting in a big pre-season the Pies ruck department is looking very solid.

Ricky Dudley is a tough traditional half back flanker and his opponents will surely earn their kicks.  After relocating from country Victoria, Dudley played for the Woodsmen in 2015, having a very strong finals campaign.

Gareth Crawford is a strong bodied midfielder who has a string of B & F awards in major competitions in western Victoria and he will be a boost to an already strong Pies midfield, adding experience to a youthful lineup.

Reece Bridge is a 20 year old half back who could hold down a key defence position. He is agile with a leap and arrives from Cairns where he was a representative player last year.   

The Pies will also be strengthened with the return of classy midfielder Cory Hopkins and promising youngster David Lewis, both having a year off last year, and the return from a season ending injury last year of 2014 Rookie of the Year Mitchell Stallard. Rover Blake McClennan is also returning after a couple of years off to establish his business and he will add to the midfield mix.

Speedster Jake Heard has also put in a big preseason and will be fit after two injury-interrupted seasons. 

Another plus for the Pies is the decision of tough midfield leader Tim McEvoy to go around again and the classy Luke Scott will also play again after contemplating his future at the end of 2015.

Further good news is that key defender Chris Hunt is training strongly after pre-season surgery which looked like de-railing his 2016 season. He will have a delayed start to the season but is aiming to return by round 5 or 6.   

The Pies will look to up and coming Under 19 players Lachlan Dennis, Charlie Pursehouse and Jake Farrell to play senior football and will expect 17 year olds Sam Copland and Ryley Easton, already with a season of senior football under their belt, to build on their experience.

Dennis is a skilled half forward/winger, Pursehouse is a 194cm ruckman who is showing enormous promise and may play as a third tall up forward and Farrell is a strong bodied youngster who will play in the half forward rotations. 

2015 Grogan Medallist Callum Carseldine, 2014 William Pierce Medallist Ben Jaenke-Cain, Drew Mitchell and Lachlan Woods again form the nucleus of a strong midfield and with the new players into the mix the Pies will look to emulate last season where they were strong at the contest.

2015 William Pierce Medallist Val Pope also looks good and may play more deep forward this year and that makes him very dangerous for opposition defenders. 

Jaden Morton has had a good pre-season and with added fitness he may be the Pies answer at full-back. He knows the position well as he played there in the Magpies 2006 Premiership. 

Likewise Alex Dickfos is trimmer and fitter this year and he will form a dangerous key forward combination with Staker. Dickfos was third in the QAFL goal kicking in 2015 with 60 goals.  

Matt Davis had a standout season last year and with fellow half back Sean Mewing will again be key players in the Pies defence along with Luke Mitchell, who locked down well last year playing on key opposition small forwards and providing valuable rebound.

Brady Allen is also primed for a big year after a good pre-season and coach Glenn Humphrey is looking to up and coming youngsters who were knocking on the door last season in Joel Workman, Matt Mazarolle and Luke DeNys to take the next step to be regular senior players. 

Out for the Magpies in 2016 will be key defender/ruckman Hayden Thick (travel), goal sneak Matt Thompson (Canberra--work-- (Ainslie)), key forward Matt Garland (retired), half-back Ben Hooper (Tweed Heads--work), winger Sonny Aneet (Toowoomba) and may be without full-back Doug Lawrence (Aspley-NEAFL), Redlands-listed CHF Tom Michael  and winger Aaron Maricic (Redland--NEAFL) for many matches. All three will be available for the Pies if not selected for their NEAFL clubs.  

Another loss is 2015 JB Medal winner for Best and Fairest in the Reserves in midfielder Bryce Crossley who has crossed to Kenmore. Crossley provided depth for the Pies and will be missed. The return from Europe of Tom Ielasi is also on hold at this point.

The Pies start their season this Saturday, March 5th when they play Wilston-Grange at Callaghan Park, Zillmere in the QAFL Pre-season competition at 4.30 pm.

This match was scheduled for Chelmer but due to works on the Telstra tower encroaching on the playing surface the match has been relocated.

Sci Fleet Toyota - Blast from the Past!

ADAM "Gilly" GILLESPIE

Adam Gilly Gillespie provided the Western Magpies faithful with many great memories with his goal kicking feats and ability to sneak a goal from nowhere. He was short on those stocky legs of his, appeared to be carrying a few kilos and it was suggested a few times he looked like a slow plodder!

However, this appearance lulled many an opponent into a false sense of security as Gilly was explosively quick off the mark, his stockiness was composed of solid muscle and his footy smarts enabled him to outmanoeuvre high quality opponents to take strong marks or manipulate the drop of the ball to his favour. 

Gilly certainly knows where the big sticks are and many a time he could conjure a goal at a crucial moment and he kicked 10 goals in senior game twice for the Pies. 

Gilly was certainly never one to miss a chance to kick a goal, as shown in the 2008 Grand final win over PBC when Sean Mewing launched a long bomb from outside 50 metres in the Pies third quarter comeback and the ball was about to tumble through for a goal when Gilly thought he would make sure of it and nudged it through with a last second toe poke,thus robbing Mewso of one of the great goals in the Pies Grand Final history!

Gilly arrived at the Pies in 1996 after he moved to Inala from Albury-Wodonga with his mother. He had grown up in Perth until he was 8 years old and he moved to Albury after his parents separated. 

After moving to Brisbane he happened to drive past Chelmer and saw the four posts at each end of the ground (a rarity in Brisbane!) and decided to follow up.  As luck would have it, he contacted club legend Kevin Kluver.

Kev was never one to let a potential recruit go and he took Gilly under his wing as he joined Sherwood Under 14s.

Starting as an on-baller in the juniors, Gilly recalls Peter Avery as one of his earlier coaches. They won the premiership in his first year at the club. 

He played on a half back flank in his first year in Under 18s in 1997 under club Life Member Bob Hoffman. He then captained the Under 18s to a Premiership in 1998 as a ruck-rover in his second year under coach Iain Reid.

Sherwood did not have a Senior side when Gilly finished Under 18s in 1998 so decided to try out for Senior football at Mayne, then a strong QAFL club.

However, soon after starting pre-season training at Mayne at the start of 1999, the Western Magpies were formed and Gilly returned to the fold. He was in and out of the Seniors in his first year playing on a half back flank and back pocket under Des Lashman.

Recognising his strong body work and explosive pace, his next coach Geoff Jennings moved him to forward line - and as they say in the classics - "the the rest is history!!"  Gilly went on to be the The Western Magpies Seniors leading goalkicker 4 times and was third in the club's Best and fairest 3 times. 

He played key roles in the club's 2006 and 2008 Premierships under coach Paul Grentell.

After the 2008 Premiership, he found it hard to get to training regularly due to work commitments so decided to play with The Woodsmen in 2009 and 2010 and enjoyed another premiership in 2009 and another leading goalkicker award in 2010.

He was persuaded to rejoin the Western Magpies in 2011 but again he was unable to train all the time so played Reserves and won the club's Best and Fairest in Reserves (the John Burkitt Medal).

Sherwood/Western Magpies doyen Kevin Kluver regards Gilly as one of the smartest footballers he has seen at the club. 

In 2012, with work commitments affecting training attendances,  he decided to join a couple of mates in Michael Podoljac and John Bartels at Ipswich Eagles where he won the clubs leading goalkicker, but just missed the league goalkicking award due to a badly torn calf.

Suiting up again at Ipswich in 2013, Gilly suffered further injury troubles and decided to give the game away temporarily before signing off with a farewell 10 goal haul in mid 2013.

In 2014 Gilly obtained work in the iron mine at Paraburdoo in the Pilbara of WA as a FIFO worker and was able to play 4 matches with Paraburdoo Saints in the 4 team Fortescue league (the other three teams are from nearby Mt Tom Price).

Then in 2015, he moved his family to Paraburdoo and opted to play a full season again, winning the club's Best and Fairest Award in a Premiership winning year, and of course the club and league Leading Goal Kicker Award as well.  He was also third in the league Best and Fairest Medal. Gilly reports that the oval at Paraburdoo is quite good and is maintained by Rio Tinto.

Gilly again intends to suit up for another season in 2016, which makes sense after such a great return to full-time footy in 2015.

He is happily married to Casey, with 2 young children, Thomas and Isabella. Young Tom likes his footy but apparently prefers to handball...a trait that must have skipped a generation, as Gilly was never known for his love of the handball!

He says the biggest influence on his career was his mother who encouraged him to keep playing football and stay focussed on the important things in life.

The upside to the story is that Gilly re-connected with his father when he was 21 years old and they became good mates. He says his father gave good advice without being overbearing. Unfortunately his Dad passed away at 61 years old with asbestosis. 

Gill says affectionately that Kevin Kluver was a guiding hand in his life and Kevin took Gilly under his wing and was like a second father when Gilly was in his teens. 

He has many close mates from his days in Black and White and his Best Man at his wedding was Ian "Easy" Carroll.

He regards Dean Parkin, Brad Williams, Jason Berry, Jim Rozynski, Val Pope and Chris Mihalopoulos as the best players he has played with at the Magpies and among his best mates. 

He says he keeps a close eye on the Magpies' fortunes during the season and hopes to be back in town during the season and will look forward to catching up with all his friends at Chelmer, and hopefully attending a Premiership reunion.

This blast from the past was proudly brought to you by Sci Fleet Motors - Taringa, proud sponsors of the Western Magpies.

Welcome Back! - Metis Wealth

Welcome Back! - Metis Wealth Management

The Western Magpies are pleased to welcome Metis Wealth Management- as a proud 2016 community partner and financial sponsor. After getting involved with the club as a Sponsor in 2015 - Metis Wealth have agreed to support the Magpies again in 2016.

Metis Wealth Director and Advisor (and local) - Daniel George is an existing financial member of the footy club and has immersed himself in the club over the past 18 months, helping setup for the Season Launches, attending Auskick sessions with his young family and of course cheering on the Magpies ion plenty of home games. If you see a particularly tall gent (6'7" +) its likely to be Daniel, so make sure you say hello.

Daniel was able to help a number of Senior Players and other members with their financial plans in 2015 and comes highly recommended, so if you have been sitting on your hands waiting to take the leap and build a plan for your future - give Dan a call, no time like the present!

We remind players that the AFLQ insurance, while very comprehensive, doesn't provide income protection. It's far too common for young Australians not to have the appropriate level of insurance in this area, despite their most valuable asset being themselves and their ability to earn an income. Don't be fooled by organisations that tell you they specialise in insurance specifically for Amateur athletes - get yourself a comprehensive plan from an industry expert.

As a former professional athlete, Daniel is also a walking case study when it comes to risk insurance - so make sure you ask for his very specific expertise.

Remember - the first step to achieving your financial goals is to create a plan. Make sure you visit Metis Wealth to help you with your plan!

PLACE PLAYER UPDATE - Pies Grab a Good'Un in Gareth Crawford

The Western Magpies unveil another quality recruit for the 2016 QAFL season, highly decorated Victorian country footballer and tough midfielder Gareth Crawford.

Crawford is just the sort of player the Pies need to complement their midfield with a mix of experience and a strong body capable of winning the hard inside ball. 

Crawford is highly regarded in the western district of Victoria and comes with a big reputation,  having won the Brian Hennessy Medal in 2012 as the Western Border Football League Best & Fairest when representing the Hamilton Magpies.  Crawford is also a 5 time Inter League representative and multiple senior best & fairest winner for clubs in both the Bendigo and Western Border Football leagues and has also played summer footy in the NTFL for the Palmerston Magpies.

Crawford also brings leadership skills and experience to a young Magpie outfit, having served as Captain, Vice-Captain and Senior Assistant Coach at the Hamilton Magpies, Hamilton Kangaroos and Old Collegians.  Most recently in 2015, Crawford played for Merrivale Tigers in the Warnambool District League where he was among the Tigers best in their Grand Final lost to Dennington.  Crawford joined Merrivale as part of a desire to have a season with a good mate and it’s a similar connection that has lead him to the Western Magpies.  While Crawford is moving to QLD for greater employment opportunities, he will also link up with former Eaglehawk teammate – Ricky Dudley who is joining the Magpies Senior Squad in 2016 after a season with the Woodsmen, where he was also a stand out player in a losing Grand Final in 2015.

The Magpie faithful look forward to welcoming, Gareth, Ricky and all other new recruits to the nest in 2016!

Place Player Update - brought to you by Premier Sponsor - Place Graceville

The fantastic team at Place have signed on for the 2015-2017 seasons as one of our valued club partners and sponsors, and as much as the club appreciates their support - Place will appreciate the club support in return. So for all your real estate needs, make sure Place are your one stop shop.

As an added bonus, Place will be providing further financial support to the club for every new listing - so make sure you tell them you're from the Western Magpies Community when you consider listing your home and support those that support you!

VALE ALLAN GRENTELL

Long time supporter and past official of the Sherwood and Western Magpies Football Clubs,  Allan Grentell,  passed away late last week.

Allan served on the Sherwood committee for several years in the late 1980s and is the father of past Sherwood junior player Andrew Grentell and Western Magpies past captain and dual premiership coach Paul Grentell

Alan hailed from Wagga Wagga where he played at 16 years old as a full forward in Turvey Park's first ever Senior premiership in 1961 and then in another flag in 1963 and also represented the then powerful Riverina based South-Western District League, which won the Victorian Country Championships in 1964.

Alan represented the league for a number of years and was regarded as one of the best players to play for the Wagga based Bulldogs.

He was a fast leading full forward in the days when you didn't need to be 186 cm tall. He was a long and accurate kick and was regarded as a fine exponent of the torpedo punt.

After playing in two Turvey Park flags he crossed to East Wagga who were then in the Central Riverina League as Assistant-Coach and played in the club's first ever premiership in 1966. He also had a stint with Collingullie in the Farrer League (there were 3 leagues based in and around Wagga in those days).

Allan moved his family to Brisbane in the late 1970s as both his boys Andrew and Paul suffered from respiratory illnesses and he thought the warmer climate would be better for them.
He didn't take long to find a footy club and joined Sherwood and was Chairman of Selectors for the Seniors in a premiership year in 1982.

Both his boys played junior football at Sherwood and Allan was a team manager and joined the junior committee in the mid 1980s, serving as Treasurer in 1987.

When Paul played at Western Districts in the mid 1990s, Allan was a Team Manager, always willing to help out and support his sons in their football endeavours.

He was around and about when the Western Magpies formed in 1999 and supported the likes of Des Lashman, Matt Vowles and Geoff Jennings as a Team Manager as the Black and Whites returned to Senior Football. 

He also managed the Queensland Country Football team in the Australian Country Championships in 2000 where several Magpies played, namely Scott Hedley, Michael Blackmore, Dean Parkin, Brad Williams and Matt Taylor. It was fitting that the championships were in Wagga and Allan enjoyed catching up with many old friends and foes during the carnival. His son Paul missed the trip due to suffering a broken leg on the eve of the carnival.
Allan is survived by his ex-wife Maureen and sons Andrew and Paul and families.

Allan's funeral will be held on Thursday, February 11th at 11 am at Centenary Gardens, Wacol Station Rd, Sumner and thereafter at Sherwood AFC at Chelmer.

From Riverina Football League Website:

BLASTFROMTHEPAST

Once again this year we are running the popular feature Blast from the Past. We will endeavour to cover as vast a cross section as possible across the Riverina and we trust that you find it interesting reading. This week we feature a player who starred with Turvey Park in the early 60's. Today we revive the career of former Turvey Park full forward, Allan Grentell.  

Name:  Allan Grentell  

Details of Playing / Coaching Career:  Played with Turvey Park winning two premierships in 1961 and 1963. Also had a stint with East Wagga and won there first ever premiership and was assistant coach. Also had stints with Collingullie and East Sydney. Had a pre season trial with Footscray in the VFL and Sturt in Adeleaide.

Awards / Medals Received:  Runner Up in League Goalkicking on 5 occasions. Played for both the South West and Farrer Leagues.  

Favourite Playing Position:  Full forward    

Most Respected Opponents:  Vic Hathaway (Griffith) and Geoff Parmenter (Ganmain) 

Best Player Seen:  Graham Ion and Greg Hardie  

AFL Club I Follow:  Carlton. 

Current Occupation:  Retired in Sydney

Where do you see local AFL heading in the future:  Don't get back to Wagga that often so I can't comment on the local competition down there. The standard in the local Sydney competition is terrible.

Allan Grentell played almost all of his footy from full forward. During his very distinguished career he was successful in three premiership sides with Turvey Park (two) and one with East Wagga. He was a laconic player who was at his very best when leading straight up the ground to receive the footy from his on ball team mates. He was a very consistent player and this was testament to him coming runner up on five occasions in league goal kicking awards. From an early age it was evident that Allan was going to have a successful career in Australian Football and he continued to kick plenty of goals over many years. Allan played during the "old" days when you went back and had your kick after taking a mark - there was not the play on at all costs like today. He thrived in that atmosphere and carved out a successful niche during his time in the Riverina. Some of Allan's team mates during his Turvey Park days were Barry Conway, Noel Morrow, Robbie Nolan, Rex Burge and Jack Keating. There was no finer sight in Australian Football during the sixties then to see Allan Grentell go back at slot a torpedo through from sixty out. You don't see sights like that today. Allan doesn't get back home that often these days as he is domiciled in Sydney. Still if you are talking to him shake his hand and tell him that you enjoyed his Blast from the Past.  

Place Profile - KEV KLUVER - "KEEPER OF THE FLAME" AND 2016 INTERIM PRESIDENT

Kevin Kluver is one of the most well known and popular football people in Queensland and certainly is a well known identity with the Western Magpies and Sherwood Football Clubs.

While Kevin has been associated with other clubs in the AFLQ he says he has always been "Black and White".

In fact, so "Black and White"  that he has stepped into the breach to take the reins as President of the club at the recent AGM. Kevin says he is only filling in for a short time until a "more suitable " candidate takes over but in the interim Kevin will lead the club in his usual indefatigable way. 

Kevin is also the club's unofficial historian and "Keeper of the Flame". His font of knowledge about Sherwood, Western Districts and the Western Magpies is phenomenal and he also has a great deal of knowledge about Queensland football in general as well.  

His recall of detail about the club and its players is legendary and he rarely misses a Western Magpies match. 

His contribution to the club's history, "In Black and White", written by Tony and Geraldine Massey and published in 2011, was substantial. 

Kevin has been involved in the Sherwood/Western Districts/Western Magpies Football Clubs for 59 years and 2016 will be his 60th year of impassioned involvement. Anyone who knows Kevin knows of his passion for the game in general and for the game in the Western Suburbs of Brisbane. 

Kevin's footy involvement commenced in 1957 when he watched his older brother play at Western Districts but when Sherwood Juniors formed in 1956 and starting with the first teams in 1957 he soon started playing as a 10 year old. 

He played until he was 14 years old then decided to play rugby league with Souths-Graceville until he was 17 years old--he said he still went and watched the Sherwood teams play. He returned to AFL and played for Western Districts for 2 years before he joined Sherwood Seniors in 1968 and played Seniors until 1973 and played in the club's first senior premiership in 1970.

He then decided coaching was  his caper and he became the Captain-Coach of the Sherwood Reserves in 1974-75  and then in 1976 coached the club's under 17 team to an undefeated Premiership.

Kevin wanted to coach the Sherwood Firsts team in 1977 but the club overlooked him and appointed Les Foote to the job (Foote was later named in the centre in North Melbourne's Team of the Century and is an AFL Hall of Fame Inductee --1996)(interestingly another NMFC Team of the Century member in John Rantall also coached Sherwood). 

Kevin was keen to continue coaching and was approached by Mayne and joined them in 1977 as an assistant-coach and they duly won the flag. Mayne was then a powerhouse of Queensland football and their licensed club was one of the biggest in Brisbane, based at Windsor Park. 

Kevin still helped out at Sherwood as the Magpies played on Saturdays and Mayne on Sundays.

Kevin obviously impressed because the was appointed Senior coach at Mayne for 1978-79 but the Tigers slipped to finish outside the four in both years. 

Kevin then returned to the Magpie nest in 1980 as an advisor the coach Lindsay Jacob. Sherwood were at that time the dominant team in the SQAFA, considered below the QAFL in standard but all the same Sherwood were invited to compete in the QAFL pre-season competition which they went on to win, defeating Windsor-Zillmere in the Final. Sherwood went on the win the SQAFA flag, their sixth in a row on the way to eight premierships in succession. 

In 1981, Kevin then joined Morningside as coach of their Reserves and his assistant was a young up-and-comer in John Blair, current coach of Aspley and a QAFL legend. He stayed at Morningside for 3 years and returned to Sherwood in 1984 for the Pies second year in the QAFL. 

He was assistant coach to John Rantall for 2 years then in 1987 was appointed coach of the Queensland under 17 team to compete in the Teal Cup, the equivalent of the Commonwealth Bank Under 18 state championships today. 

He coached the Teal Cup team in 1987-88 and was on the coaching staff from 1988-90.

Kevin's football brain and knowledge of Queensland football talent saw him appointed recruiting officer for Essendon for 10 years and then Melbourne for a further 4 years.

During that time he has always been a presence at the Western Magpies and was made  a deserving Life Member in 2002.

He was one of the main organisers for the Sherwood 50th Year anniversary celebrations in 2006 and was a selector for Sherwood's 50 best players announced at the 50th Anniversary Dinner. 

Kevin's love of the club surfaced again at the club's recent Annual Meeting when he stepped into the breach to take on the President's role for the club.

Kevin recognises the need for a stable Board of Directors to run the club to continue to foster the code in the western suburbs and develop talent as it has done over 60 years of football. 

He is keen to celebrate the club's  60th year this year with another Anniversary event and at that event the club may also need to recognise "The Groover's"  60 year association with the Magpies.

Kevin has seen many fine players don the Sherwood guernsey but rates Rob Shepherd, Gary Shaw, Craig St John and Alan Giffard as the best home grown talent he has seen and Peter Filler (from Lake Boga near Swan Hill) as the best import to join the club.

Of the more recent players to play for the Western Magpies he rated Brad Williams from about 2000 as a top player (Gary Ablett-like) and more recently Jim Rozynski, Luke Scott and Val Pope were and are class players. 

Kevin's soon Hayden was a Queensland under age representative and was captain of three consecutive Sherwood junior premierships and was rookie listed to the Brisbane Lions and played in the Lions 2001 flag win over Southport.

Hayden then went on to play at Port Adelaide Magpies and then Subiaco in Perth where his career ended prematurely with a severe knee injury.

All at the club salute Kevin on an outstanding contribution to the Sherwood and Western Magpies Football Clubs so when you see him offer your congratulations but Kevin would like nothing better than for you to ask what you may do to help out at the club -- every little bit counts to help keep the club at the forefront of Queensland football. 

Brisbane Lions - Family Fun Day, Sat 6 Feb @ 2pm

Don't forget Magpies, this weekend the Western Magpies / Sherwood Footy club will be hosting the Brisbane Lions Family Fun Day from 2pm, so get on down for a great afternoon!

COOPERS UPDATE - MAGPIES 2016 SEASON AHEAD

MAGPIES TRAVEL TO MT GRAVATT IN ROUND 1 OF QAFL SEASON

The Western Magpies will start their 2016 QAFL season by travelling the short trip to meet old rival Mt Gravatt at Dittmer Park on Saturday,  April 2nd. 

All the Magpies matches in 2016 are scheduled for Saturdays and all start at 2 pm. 

The Pies first home match will be against another old rival in Wilston Grange at Chelmer the following Saturday April 9th commencing at 2 pm.

The Pies first 5 matches are all winnable matches with following matches against Sandgate (away), Broadbeach (home)  and Palm Beach-Currumbin (home) before the Pies meet 2015 Premiers Labrador away in Round 6.

After a superb home and away season in 2015 the Pies have only Labrador to conquer as the Tigers are the only team the Pies have not defeated in their tumultuous and rocky history in the QAFL over several stints. 

Pre-season training recommences on Tuesday 12th January 2016.

The Western Magpies QAFL draw for 2016: (see AFLQ website for full draw) 

2nd April--   Rd 1 v Mt Gravatt (a)

9th  April--   Rd 2 v Wilston Grange (Chelmer)

16th April--  Rd 3 v Sandgate (a) 

23rd April -- Rd 4 v Broadbeach (Chelmer)

30th April -- General bye

5th May --   Rd 5 v Palm Beach-Currumbin (Chelmer) 

14th May -- Rd 6 v Labrador (a)

21st May -- Rd 7 v UQ (a)

28th May -- Rd 8 v Morningside ( Chelmer) 

3rd June --  Representative round--QAFL v WA Amateur FL at Leyshon Park, Yeronga

11th June -- Rd 9 v Surfers Paradise (a) 

18th June -- Rd 10 v Mt Gravatt (Chelmer) 

25th June -- Rd 11 v Palm Beach-Currumbin (a) 

2nd July --  Rd 12 v Wilston Grange (a) 

9th July  --  Rd 13 v Sandgate (Chelmer) 

16th July --  Rd 14 v Labrador (Chelmer) 

23rd July --  Washout round (bye) 

30th July --  Rd 15 v Broadbeach (a) 

6th August -- Rd 16 v UQ (Chelmer) 

13th August -- Rd 17 v Morningside (a) 

20th August -- Rd 18 v Surfers Paradise (Chelmer) 

27/28th August--Elimination/Qualifying Finals

3rd/4th September-- First/Second Semi Finals

10/11th September --Preliminary Final

17/18th September-- Grand Final

Note the AFL Grand Final is scheduled for Saturday October 1st

PLACE PRE-SEASON UPDATE

WESTERN MAGPIES BOLSTER ITS TALL AND EXPERIENCED STOCKS WITH THE SIGNING OF NICK BARLING TO THE MAGPIES FOR SEASON 2016

The Magpies would like to welcome Nick Barling to the nest.  Nick grew up in Geelong, played Geelong Falcons U18s, before a couple of years VFL with North Ballarat whilst completing university. Captained Geelong West St Peter's in GFL before moving up to QLD in 2008 to work for AFL Gold Coast. Spent 3 years playing for Surfers Paradise and last year was Captain of Ipswich Eagles. Currently HPE teacher and Primary Sport Coordinator at St Augustine's College, Springfield. Wife Laura, 2 and a half year old daughter Milla and girl #2 due early February.  Nick has enjoyed his pre-season at the Magpies so far and is looking forward to contributing to the teams quest with what makes to be an exciting 2016 season.

PLACE PRE-SEASON UPDATE

TOP LINE RECRUIT IN BRENT STAKER SIGNS FOR MAGPIES

The Western Magpies are the clubhouse leader for signing of the off-season, with Brent Staker putting pen to paper to pull on the black and white in 2016.

Staker’s familiarity with the Magpies, and his first hand experience of what they stand for meant a move to Chelmer was always going to be a good fit.

“I’ve known about the Magpies and their great community base since I moved here in 2009,” he said.

“I know they went through a bit of trouble in the floods in 2011. Friends of mine from Western Australia were over here helping clean up, so I was out here for a few days and got to know a few people, and obviously people behind the scenes and on the board I know as well. It is a good fit, and they have always struck me as a good club, so I think it’s a great move.”

While offers to play NEAFL were tabled to him, Staker said the mix between football, family, and life was the reason he wants to play in the QAFL.

“I had to weigh up how much footy I wanted in my life. With the NEAFL you’ve got to have a bit more commitment, dedicate a bit more time during the week, plus the weekends. I just felt after 13 years in the AFL it was time to step back,” he said.

“I just want to enjoy a couple of nights training, and fully commit game day. That’s what suits me for where I am at and what I want to get out of my footy.”

Staker was selected at pick 37 in the 2002 AFL National Draft by the West Coast Eagles, where he would go on to play 110 games across seven seasons.

In 2010, he was traded to the Brisbane Lions, running out a further 50 times over six years.

Staker called time on his 160 game AFL career at the end of the 2015 season, and while there were offers to head back to Perth, remaining in the Sunshine State was the logical choice.

“There were some very good offers. East Fremantle was the club I was affiliated with when I was at the West Coast Eagles. The coaches that are on board there are all good friends of mine, but it was whether I wanted to take the plunge and leave Queensland,” he said.

“My girlfriend is from Queensland, so the decision to hang around here, combined with the opportunities here in Brisbane, was the right thing to do.”

Despite no longer playing at the elite level, the competitive fire still burns within him.

“I’ve had a few shocker years, I hardly played a game due to injuries for about three years. The footy desire is still really strong. I wouldn’t be sitting here if I didn’t want to play footy,” Staker said.

“This will be a good year for me learning wise, stepping out of the AFL, still playing footy, and figuring out the next phase after AFL footy and how much I want to play.”

With a young group around him, Staker will instantly become a leader around Poweyenna Oval, not that it will be anything new to him.

“No doubt the footy club here will be hoping I can provide some strong voice on field, and guide these younger kids. I’m not a guy that goes off at players out there, I’m a guy who makes sure players know what the best decision is, or how to improve. If I can lead in that way, help players improve, and give them confidence, then that will be my role,” he said.

Forging an AFL career as a utility means Staker could line up anywhere next year, but he expects the majority of his time to be spent at one end.

“On field, ill be probably mostly up forward and occasionally run through the midfield. I’ll mostly be trying to kick a goal and get the crowd involved,” he laughed.

After a standout first season at the Lions, injuries restricted Staker to just 28 games over the next five seasons.

Despite that, he is confident of staying out on the park next year.

“I’ve taken some hits to the shins with the big stick with some injuries over the last few years, but I’m confident,” Staker said.

“With the two nights training here, and with my own stuff I do outside of footy to keep my body right, I know I’ll be right, and will keep my body in good shape.

“I’ve never been one to abuse my body, I’ve naturally got it engrained in me to keep my body right and look after it.”

Outside of the Magpies, Staker will play a key role in the Simon Black Academy on the Gold Coast, as his commitment to helping the next generation of stars continues.

And in a romantic sub story, Staker will pull on the number 18 jumper next year. A jumper his father made famous in Broken Hill, a jumper that was then retired until Brent wore it as a 16 year old, and a jumper that hasn’t been worn since there.

Make no doubts about it, the key position stakes of the Magpies just went up, as did their scoring power.

Staker will join the rest of the group in their final training session of the year on Wednesday night.

J-ROZ RETURNS FOR THE PIES

Dual Western Magpies Premiership player and dual Bill Peirce Medallist Jim Rozynski has signed for the Pies for the 2016 season.

J-Roz is a favourite son of the Magpies with his uncompromising attack on the football as well as being a big game player, winning best on ground honours in the Pies Premierships of 2008 and 2012. He won his Best and Fairest Bill Peirce Medals in 2010 and 2013

Jim sparked the Pies remarkable come back in 2008 to snatch a last minute victory in a match in which they trailled Palm Beach-Currumbin for all but the final 2 minutes of the match after being behind by over 5 goals in the third quarter.

In the 2012 Grand Final, also against PBC, Jim dominated in the midfield despite being targeted physically all match. Obviously PBC did not know him very well as he took it all in his stride, broke numerous tackles and laid a few himself--when Jim tackles you, you know you have been tackled!! -- and won plenty of contested football to go on to out-muscle and out-play his opponents. 

Last year Jim joined several other Queensland footballers as FIFO players for Mitiamo in northern Victoria and it was not long before the locals also learnt to love the way he played football and he was soon a very popular player, being one of the best players in a losing grand final after coming through from 5th place on the ladder. .

The travel factor as well as being excited by the Magpies surge up the ladder in 2015 convinced Jim to re-join the club and be part of the push for a maiden QAFL Premiership.

J-Roz will join his Magpies team-mates for the first pre-season training run for the new season on Wednesday night at 6pm at the Pies headquarters at Chelmer under re-appointed coach Glenn Humphrey.

2016 PRE SEASON TRAINING

2016 Pre Season Training ... Wednesday 25th November @ 6.00pm sharp

We welcome all Senior players back for the 2016 Pre Season Training.  Please ensure you bring sandshoes and boots.  If you can't attend Day 1 - please contact Glenn Humphrey on 0417 030 739

LIFE MEMBERSHIPS

LIFE MEMBERSHIPS AWARDED TO CHRIS MIHALOPOULOS, GABE McKINNON and ROSS "ROCCO" STEWART.

One of the highlights of the Western Magpies AFC Presentation Night recently was the bestowing of Life Memberships to Chris Mihalopoulos, Gabe McKinnon and Ross Stewart. 

CHRIS MIHALOPOULOS

Chris "Micka" Mihalopoulos is truly a club legend both on and off the field. 

Micka started at the club in 1995 playing under 13's and he then played in an Under 14 premiership and then was Under 16 B& F in 1999.

He started playing in First Grade in 1999 as a 16 yo (second year after the Western Magpies formed).

He was First grade and Club Captain for ten years from 2003-12 and captained the club to three First Grade premierships in 2006 (def Noosa), 2008 (def PBC) and 2012 (def PBC).

He was the Bill Peirce medallist for Best and Fairest in 2004  and was  runner-up B &F in 2002, 2005 and 2007. 

With a change in employment to real estate he retired from the senior club at the end of 2012 after guiding the Pies to the flag with an emphatic victory over bitter rivals Palm Beach Currumbin. Micka's finals series in 2012 was simply inspirational. 

He still wanted to have a kick and played with the Pies affiliate The Woodsmen in 2013-2015,  playing in the 2014 premiership for The Woodsmen. He also helped out when he could with the Pies Reserves and booted 8 goals against Broadbeach this season. 

Not content with his playing career he joined the  Sherwood AFC Board of Directors from in 2010-11. 

The Western Magpies is certainly a major part of Micka's life as he met his future wife Clare at the club when she joined the club as physiotherapist. He is still involved in the club and is one of the best loved and respected players to have donned the Black and White. 

His total matches played is not fully known but  with 14 years in First Grade it is estimated he played about 220 Senior matches.

GABE McKINNON

Gabe McKinnon received Life membership after he played his 200 senior game  this year after joining the Magpies to play with Sherwood Under 12s in 1995. 

He has not missed a season since he joined the club from Yeronga

Gabe "Heinzy" McKinnon has played 81 First grade matches and 119 Reserve grade matches. He played in the 2006 Firsts premiership when the Pies defeated Noosa at Carrara and played in 2 Reserves premierships in 2005 and 2007.

He was awarded best on ground in the 2005 Reserves Premiership playing at centre half back. 

He grew up in Brisbane but his family was from Adelaide so AFL was always his preferred choice of footy. He started at Yeronga but after 2 years moved to Sherwood in 1995 to play Under 12s and has not missed a season since. 

His junior career was not as successful premiership-wise as his senior career as he played in four losing grand finals and in a tied grand final while at Sherwood  and also lost an Under 18 Grand final for the Western Magpies in 2003.

He also laments the one that got away as the Pies lost the 2008 Reserves grand final after entering the decider undefeated throughout the season.

He was runner-up in the Reserves best and fairest in 2005 and has a been consistent performer in every season he has played for the Pies.

In 2015 he was runner-up in the Reserves Best and fairest, the JB Medal.

He has been at the club for 20 years and has been a loyal and uncomplaining player. He is the epitome of Rudyard Kipling's hero in his poem  "If", taking the good with the bad with equal measure, never complaining and happy to play where he is picked and trying his hardest every match.

He is  a deserving Life Member after many years loyal service. 

ROSS "ROCCO" STEWART

Ross "Rocco" Stewart played in the Sherwood teams of the late 1970s to early 1980s which was golden period for the club. 

He started as a junior in the club as a 7 year old and went on to represent Queensland at Under 15 and Under 17 level.

He won the Best and Fairest in First Grade in 1977 under the legendary coach Les Foote and was runner-up B & F in 1976 and went on to play over 100 senior matches for the club.

He played in 6 of the 8 premierships the Pies won in that period and was one of the best kicks on either foot to have played for the club. He had good skills on both sides of the body and it is said if you needed  someone to kick a goal from 40-50 metres out the Rocco was the man to do it. 

His career was cut short by chronic ankle injuries and he did other things for many years before returning over 10 years ago to start coaching at junior level at Sherwood which he has done for over 10 years. 

He joins his parents in Glynn and Maureen Stewart as Life Members of the club. 

PRESENTATION NIGHT

WESTERN MAGPIES CELEBRATE 2015 SEASON

The Western Magpies celebrated a successful season at the club's Presentation Night last Saturday.

The evening commenced with club President Chris Dennis outlining the highlights of the season:

* First Grade finishing second on the ladder and playing finals football in the QAFL (only the second time Sherwood/WMAFC have played in QAFL Finals series; 

* Lighting upgrade at the ground;

* the club's second Grogan medallist in Cal Carseldine, joint the legendary Bill Peirce;

* 4 players named in the QAFL Team of the Year;

* Peter McClennan named as the QAFL Administrator of the Year;

* The Woodsman returning to Chelmer for home matches due to lighting upgrade;

* Sherwood Under 17s being undefeated Premiers--the future is bright. 

CLUBMEN OF THE YEAR

The club awarded both Richard Davis and President Chris Dennis the prestigious Clubman of the Year Award.

Richard Davis was the Reserves Team Manager and attended training and match days to ensure all was in order for the Reserves. He does not come from an AFL background but when his son started playing junior football he embraced the game and the club and became involvewhich he continued to do this year in an unfashionable but absolutely vital role. He also ran water on match day then helped out as well with the First Grade when asked.  

Chris Dennis has steered the club into the QAFL and has been instrumental in the growth of the club, especially with the new clubrooms last year and the lighting upgrade this year. He has helped re-build the Board to be a strong guiding influence in the regeneration of the club and he is a key link between the Junior and Senior sections of the club. The Western Magpies brand is now in the top level of QAFL football and Chris has been a major influence on the rise of the club up the QAFL ladder, both on and off the field. 

RUSSELL GREEN COACH of the YEAR AWARD

The Russell Green Memorial Trophy for Coach of the Year was awarded to Brydon Morgan, the First Grade Assistant Coach with added responsibility for the midfield rotations.

In his first year at the club he was instrumental in the Pies midfield becoming a powerful unit which gave the Pies parity at the contest and in many matches the midfield dominated. This area of improvement was a significant  factor in the Pies finishing second on the ladder and he was chuffed when Callum Carseldine won the Grogan Medal.

Unfortunately for the Magpies, Brydon has accepted a coaching role at Aspley in the NEAFL and will not be at the Magpies next season, which is a big loss to the club.

The Western Magpies wish him all the best as he departs for an opportunity to be involved at NEAFL level.

Making the decision to leave easier is that Brydon lives on the north side so is closer to Aspley than Chelmer.

Russell Green was a much loved player then much respected junior coach and team manager at Sherwood who was also a gentleman in every sense of the word. He passed away suddenly at a young age (early 50s) after a short illness with cancer. At the time his passing devastated his family, his friends and the club. 

The award was presented by current player and Russell's son Matt Green. 

THANKS TO SUPPORT PERSONNEL

Club president Chris Dennis joined co-captains Lachlan Woods and Callum Carseldine in thanking the club's support staff for their efforts in ensuring the playersstayed fit and also helped in the club's rise up the QAFL ladder.

Team Mangers Tony McDonald, Richard Davis and Phil Kelemen were tireless all year. All three were at training during the week then were at the football well before play started and well after play finished with packing gear and game day administration to ensure all was in order for the players to perform at their best.

Regular water carrier Jeff Carseldine was recognised as he did this unsung job every week. 

Exercise physiologist and fitness adviser James Nightingale was singled out for special praise in monitoring player injuries and well being to ensure they performed at their best on the weekends.

Joshua Shea attended most matches and most training nights as the club chiropractorbut his general medical knowledgewas also invaluable in assessing injured players.  Club physiotherapist Christina Hart was also an integral part of the injury management team and her input was always invaluable as was that of Peter Wells as consultant physiotherapist.

Dr Greg Thompson liaised closely with all medical staff and provided valuable medical care and assessments on game day as well as being quite busy with suturing lacerations suffered by players during matches.

The club was certainly blessed to have a comprehensive medical team available at training and on game day.

APPOINTMENT OF COACH

GLENN HUMPHREY RE-APPOINTED SENIOR COACH

The Western Magpies have announced the re-appointment of Senior coach Glenn Humphrey for a third year at the helm.

Humphrey lifted the Pies from the bottom half of the ladder in 2014 to finish second on the ladder this season with a 15-3 record. The Magpies were disappointed in their finals performances but the improvement over the 2015 season lifted them to their best ever finish in the QAFL. 

Humphrey spoke at the club's Presentation Night recently and recapped on a successful season where the aims were to improve the game plan, be strong at the contest, improve the defensive side of the game then use that as a platform for attack and he believes these were achieved and were reasons the Pies became a major force in the competition.

Humphrey listed other highlights of the season, namely x1 Grogan medallist, x4 selected in QAFL Team of the Year, x3 Syd Guildford Award nominations, x2 Rising Star Award nominations, x2 16 year old debutantes and x3 18 year old debutantes giving exposure to senior football of junior players.

The challenge for next year is to continue to improve, to further improve defensive aspects of the game and develop a more formidable attack to again be in the mix for a premiership

QUENTIN JOHNSON AND JUSTIN GORE APPOINTED DEVELOPMENT COACHES

The Western Magpies wasted no time in re-appointing Specialist Development Coach Quentin Johnson and announced the appointment of 2015 Under 17 premiership Coach Justin Gore to the position of Under 19 (Colts) coach for 2016. 

Johnson was to fill this role in 2015 but with the QAFL changing to an Under 19 competition the Pies struggled for a team so Johnson took on the role of Reserves Coach. He still had a major role in developing his players as about half the side were youngsters who all improved throughout the season under his guidance. 

He will have a role with both the Reserves and Colts  teams and also will have input into the junior club at under 15 an 17 levels to develop a co-ordinated approach to football development in the club.

Justin Gore was the coach of the undefeated Sherwood Under 17 team in 2015 and will take the natural progression to Under 19 level. This is an important role as the Pies build a Colts team for 2016. With several players who played Reserve Grade this year still eligible  and with a number of the Under 17s progressing the club is confidant of having a good side at under 19 level in 2016. 

The Senior and Under 129 players will return for pre-season training in early November.