McCarthy Homes Oval Update – Magpies appoint Head Curator

With recent works having McCarthy Homes oval looking in top shape for the season ahead, the club is now pleased to formally announce William Pearce as the Head Curator for McCarthy Homes Oval.

This is a significant appointment for the club, as the field has been a constant battle for our committed army of volunteers and the tireless efforts of Facilities Director Chris Dennis in securing grants and funding for upgrades and maintenance.

With an industry recognised expert in place, the Magpies are now in a strong position to ensure every investment in the field is spent diligently and with clear purpose based on the advice and research from a highly regarded turf health specialist.

A qualified Agronomist, Will has held an interest in Turf since he first took Agricultural Science as a subject in Year 9.  As a result, he tailored his learning from that point on to set himself up for a career in a field he is passionate about.  After completing Year 12 he studied a Bachelor Degree in Ag Science majoring in Plant and Soils, where in the final 2 years of his course he further specialised in turf grass science and turf health.  During this time, he also worked as a field assistant for the QLD Government in turf research, underlining his commitment and passion to his chosen career.

Will graduated with Honours and after working in the field for 2-3 years he landed at his current ‘dream role’ with Sports Turf Research International (STRI) where he hass worked on numerous research projects covering a wide array of aspects within the warm season turf industry. Some of these include genotype selections, screening turfgrass cultivars to various environmental and sports field stresses, turf breeding, and using turf as an erosion and sediment control measure.

Other research projects have looked at improving the management practices on turf production farms to reduce water usage, associated nutrient run-off and leaching. Will has also utilised satellite imagery to assess turfgrass area coverage in Australian capital cities.

As a recognised expert in sports turf, Will has spent time in the UK and throughout South East Asia acting as a consultant to Wimbledon, FIFA, Premier League Clubs, Bundesliga Clubs and other major sporting organisations to assist in pitch preparation and turf grass health.

Will is local to the Chelmer/Graceville area, loves a beer down at the club and has represented the Woodsmen/Western Magpies with distinction in past seasons before he suffered an ACL injury on a dodgy field, just another reason for him to be passionate about field quality and turf health!  As an added bonus, the club Best & Fairest Medal is already named after him before he starts, sharing his name of course with club legend Billy Peirce!

More information about Will can be found here:  http://www.queenslandstem.edu.au/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Agronomist.pdf

If you would like to get involved in assisting the volunteers on the preparation and maintenance of McCarthy Homes Oval, please get in touch with Will Pearce – Head Curator - will.pearce@strigroup.com, 0407 779 161.

Coopers Coaching Update - Des Lashman to coach Reserves

DES LASHMAN APPOINTED MAGPIES RESERVES COACH FOR 2018

The Western Magpies AFC are pleased to announce the appointment of Des Lashman as the club's Reserves coach for 2018.

Des has a long and illustrious pedigree at the Magpies and as well as being a 6 time Senior Premiership player at Sherwood, he was the Western Magpies inaugural senior coach in 1999 and coached the club's Under 18s from 2008 to 2011, winning a QAFL Division One Colts Premiership in 2010.

Western Magpies AFC President Andrew Thomson said, “It is great to have Des on board to coach our Reserves team in 2018.

Des has an outstanding record as a coach who can develop players and he is the ideal coach to re-build the Reserves list and continue to develop young players into senior footballers.

Anyone who knows Des, knows he's a champion bloke and his down to earth nature allows him to relate very well with players of all ages and he has in the past developed strong rapport with his players. He is a Magpie man through and through and will work well with the Senior coaching group led by Brydan Morgan". 

 Below is a story on Des Lashman from 2012

DES LASHMAN RECALLS GOLDEN ERA

Current Under 18 Assistant Coach Des Lashman played in 6 of Sherwood's 8 flags from 1977 to 1982  after joining the club from Inala Greens as a 15 year old in 1975 and playing in 2 Under 17 premierships in 1975-76 before being promoted the the First Grade as a 6 foot (182 cm) ruckman in 1977.

Des represented Queensland Schoolboys in 1973 and was enticed to Sherwood by Blair Spence , then the Registrar for the club. Des never left!!

He not only played in 8 flags in a row but has been an integral part of the club for the past 39 years and has served as Assistant coach, Reserves coach and Under 18 coach, coaching the U18s to the First Division Premiership over Redland in 2010 after a devastating 1 point loss to undefeated Morningside in 2009.

Des learnt his football surprisingly in Sydney at Holdsworthy Army Base-his father was a South Australian and in the Army so it was natural Des would learn to play footy with the red ball. The Army brought the family to Brisbane and Des has stayed ever since.

Des says that he played with many great players as you do if you play in 6 premierships in a row.

He rates centreman Greg Butler as one of the best players he played with and says  the likes of Greg Adams, Rocko Stewart and ruck partner Graeme Honour as among the better players and it was these players who supported Des as a young player. He says they engendered a great belief in the side and never say die attitude which won many games and indeed premierships when all seemed lost.

Other top liners according to Des who gave their all were CHB Denis Hogan, Dave Greer , Bruce O'Neill and Romas Jackavicius.

In many clubs players who win one premiership are lauded and held in high esteem- Des Lashman played in 6 premierships in a row as well as being a successful coach at the club--a true legend of the Sherwood and Western Magpies Football Clubs. 

This was acknowledged with Des being awarded Life Membership of the club in 2012

Mc Carthy Homes - Club Update

MAGPIES AGM A SUCCESS WITH A STRONG BOARD READY FOR CLUB GROWTH

Long serving Board member Andrew Thomson will continue to lead the Sherwood DAFC in 2018 after assuming the reins 3 months ago with the resignation of then club President Mark Blackberry. In a seamless transition, Thomson assumed the President’s role when Blackberry found his business commitments precluded him from doing what he considered to be the necessary functions of a club President.

Blackberry will still play an important role for the Magpies in a fundraising and mentoring capacity. Thomson has already negotiated a significant naming rights sponsor for the club (McCarthy Homes) and his experience will be valuable in guiding the Magpies in coming seasons.

The club’s recent AGM also saw the addition of some new faces and a couple of exits.  However the board remains full of football and business experience and the strongest financial position the club now finds itself in for decades is due in large part to the efforts of the outgoing Board, most of whom will resume in the same roles in 2018. Scott Matthews stepped down from his role as Director--Junior Football, while ex-club junior Mitchell Merritt returns from Griffith Moorooka in the new portfolio of Director, Partnerships & Engagement.

The New club Board is as follows:

President and Senior Football: Andrew Thomson

Vice President—Junior Football: Adam Edwards

Director-- Finance: Martin Sinfield

Director—Infrastructure and Facilities: Chris Dennis

Director—Governance and Company Secretary: Gabe McKinnon

Director—Partnerships & Engagement: Mitchell Merritt

Director-Football: TBA

Director—Social and Events: TBA

The club is negotiating the Director of Football role but in the interim previous club coach Paul Grentell with act as Football Adviser with Damian Sonderlund as his assistant. The club is still seeking additional volunteers including a Director –Social and Events – and with the club to celebrate 50 years of senior football and the 20th year of the Western Magpies in 2018 this will be a vital role throughout the season. 

Summary of  Senior and Junior Football, Off-field Highlights and future outlook for 2018 below.

Senior highlights

• Signed new coach Brydan Morgan
• After turnover of 14-16 senior players at the end of 2016 the club was in the hunt for finals until penultimate round
• Key new signings for 2018 Season in Harwood, Corrie, Adkins, Saunders + player retention
• 10+ debutants in 2017 Season
• Colts Minor Premiers & Grand Finalists
• Reid Dobson and Jake Fuentes the next generation of coaches
• Supplied 6+ ex Magpies to NEAFL and VFL lists
• Tom Ielasi & Dave Lewis represented QAFL vs WAAFL
• Charlie Pershouse & Aaron Highlands Rising Star Nominations
• Jake De Winter Round 2 Syd Guildford Nomination
• Drew Mitchell & Gareth Crawford win Bill Peirce Medal
• Woodsmen reached Preliminary Final
• 100+ registered senior players

Junior highlights

• Experienced and successful Junior Committee lead by Scott Matthews. The Board thanks Scott for his dedication to the club over his two year tenure as Junior President.
• Strong registration numbers up 7% on prior year
• Team Successes:
• U16 Black - Division 1 minor premiers and finalists
  • U12 – Division 2 finalists

Individual Awards:

• • Tom Morgan U12 League Best & Fairest Winner
  • Sean Ryan 3rd place U16 League Best & Fairest
• Western Magpies Academy successful second year with strong numbers

Off-field highlights

• Installation of club Honour Boards – thanks to the tireless efforts of Dr. Greg Thompson
• Election of new life members in Chris Dennis, Reid Dobson, Brian Miller and Val Pope
• Delivered on facility improvements:

• • Secured funding for full ground refurbishment
  • Secured funding and work commenced to convert old home change rooms to players gym

Delivered on Corporate Partnerships

• • Secured new naming rights sponsor for 2018
  • Increased corporate partnerships in both number and financial commitment

Implementation of “One Club” Strategy

• • Reconstitution of Board of Directors (Junior, Senior and Woodsmen representation)
  • Senior player participation with Junior teams
  • Western Magpies Summer Coaching Academy
  • Player Development Pathwa
  • Review of communications 

Financial Outlook

With the continuing support of volunteers, sponsors and supporters, the Board are confident that the club is well placed financially leading in to the 2018 season:

• New revenue streams are expected to bear further fruit, with Cross Fit Disposition, Step into Life and AFL9s expected to contribute notable returns. 
• Corporate sponsorships are off to a strong start, with a new naming rights sponsor and other new partners resulting in the club being in a healthy financial position. 
• Additional funding has been committed to the football department to help strengthen the senior squad. 
• The Queensland Labor Government has committed $150k to fund oval works at the end of the 2018 season.  This will enable the playing surface to be levelled and improved to a standard that will enable the Club to play home finals and bid for junior finals. 

To get involved and support the club in an off field role, please contact President - Andrew Thomson on 0403 066 382. 

Welcome to McCarthy Homes Oval

Magpies confirm McCarthy Homes as Major Sponsor until 2020

As the Western Magpies QAFL squad embark on their final training run for 2017 this evening, they will also be having their first outing at the newly named McCarthy Homes Oval, after the club announced a new three year partnership with the proudly Brisbane based and family owned custom home builder.

Looking ahead to 2018, its an exciting time at McCarthy Homes Oval with solid turnouts on the training track for the QAFL Squad, some key player and coach signings as well key appointments being made to bolster the Sherwood Magpies Junior Football program.

Club President Andrew Thomson was excited at the strong values alignment between the Magpies and McCarthy Homes.

“I was really excited when I first spoke with McCarthy Homes about the possibility of coming on board as a key community partner, as I’ve worked in the development game for close to 15 years now and in that time I’ve had some dealings with their business and their brand that have been nothing but positive," commented Thomson. 

"As a longstanding and privately owned home builder, they are certainly at the top of their game in that space and local residents in the area would no doubt already have seen a number of their beautiful custom designed homes popping up in the Indooroopilly to Oxley corridor,” said Thomson. 

Nick O’Sullivan, Director of McCarthy Homes said, “We’ve been building homes in the Chelmer, Graceville and Sherwood area fairly consistently in the last few years and as a result, we have committed to building a new display home in on the corner of Oxley Road and Borden St in Sherwood,  due for completion in Spring 2018.  As part of our commitment to the area, we wanted to involve ourselves in the community and as a result we decided to get in touch with the premier community facility in the area, being the Sherwood Football Club.  The club was extremely professional and pro-active to deal with and we are delighted to sign on as the naming rights partner for an initial 3 year term.”

Thomson added, “After initial discussions it became obvious that our organisations would have clear alignment in terms of basic community values, open communication and being leading organisations in our respective fields – so I knew pretty early on we would be able to secure a strong partnership. Getting them on board for a three year partnership as the naming rights sponsor was a substantial bonus for us as a club and really shows the commitment to the area McCarthy will have. It certainly didn’t hurt that their corporate colours are black and white either!”

(click to scroll through images)

The Sherwood Football Club, incorporating the Western Magpies and Sherwood Juniors welcomes McCarthy Homes to the Magpie family and look forward to a long standing and mutually beneficial partnership.

McCarthy Homes has been building and designing elegant custom homes in Queensland for over twenty years. With a premium product on offer, they’re renowned for their superior quality, high-end inclusions, and unique architecturally designed homes. Providing complete customisation and the ability to design for difficult blocks or knockdown rebuilds, has further cemented their position in the industry.

For more information on McCarthy Homes, visit www.mccarthyhomes.com.au

For further information regarding sponsorship please contact Director of Commercial & Engagement, Mitchell Merritt on 0488 035 022. 

Place Player Update – Redlands Duo Sign on

Sherwood Junior and 2012 Senior premiership player, Brenton Saunders will return to McCarthy Homes Oval in 2018 after a number of seasons in the NEAFL with Redlands. Saunders will also be joined by Redland Bombers teammate, Dylan Adkins, who has also signed on for season 2018.

(L-R) Dylan Adkins and Brenton Saunders

Saunders played his junior football for the Magpies and won the Maurie McNamee medal for Best and Fairest in the Colts in 2011. Following Colts, Saunders graduated to Senior football in 2012 and played in the Magpies emphatic premiership win over PBC in 2012 as a dynamic small forward.

Saunders then joined Mt Gravatt to try his hand in the NEAFL. When the Vultures dropped out of the NEAFL in 2015 he joined Redlands and remained playing in the NEAFL. However, when not selected to play for Redlands, Saunders has served as an important member of the Pies forward make-up in the QAFL. Now as a regular Magpies member,  it will be exciting for the club to see him lace up in the black and white week in and week out. 

It will also be exciting to see his team mate from Redlands - Dylan Adkins also wearing the black and white in 2018. Adkins who only took up the game in his late teens – will bring to the club not only size and aggression with his 199cm frame but also elite endurance. Dylan spent most of his youth as an elite middle distance runner - running a sub 2min 800m time, as well as being part of the Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS)  for Volleyball.  After spending a few seasons with Redlands as a tall utility, he will be able to develop his game further in 2018 in a more permanent role in the ruck. 

The arrival of Adkins will allow for the talented Aaron Highlands to play a key defensive role after his standout 2017, where he largely shouldered the ruck duties in a season that delivered him a Top 5 in the B&F and the coveted BG Award.

Adkins, a recent QUT finance graduate, was attracted to the Magpies over other clubs due to the holistic approach to player and personal development. The ability to open doors for players professional and personal development is a key pillar in the Western Magpies culture, and its important to distinguish that it’s not just a ‘jobs for the boys’ mentality, rather a focus on giving players opportunities to those who want to work hard and its up to each individual to then seize their opportunity.

"Since joining the Magpies I have been made to feel very welcome and supported by all of the boys. There's no ego's at this football club and aside from some creative comparisons from Lachlan Woods regarding my haircut to Wilson on Castaway, the transition has been very warm which has helped me to focus on enjoying football. 

"I also want it to be known that I am incredibly thankful for the opportunities afforded to me by Redlands, especially coming from a Volleyball background it was quite surreal to be training and playing with and against talented players with elite AFL experience."

"That said, I do feel that I've made the right decision signing with the Western Magpies, where I can continue to develop my football knowledge at the QAFL level. It was also pretty attractive to get involved given the club's holistic approach to player development. Early days but the vibe on that track has been very positive with everyone putting in the work to set us up to be competitive in 2018," said Adkins.  

Saunders key rationale for returning to the club was around getting back to his black & white origins and wanting to be a significant contributor in the growth of the club. 

"Having been involved in the club part-time over the last two seasons, I've seen that the club making some great moves on and off field that should give us the best possible change of future success. Since I've been back on the track, I've been very impressed with the attitudes of all the boys, everyone just wants to soak up as much information as possible and get better which is creating a great football environment," said Saunders.   

Senior Coach Brydan Morgan was pleased to secure the services of both Adkins and Saunders, who bring  an exciting mix of talent to McCarthy Homes Oval. 

"Both these blokes will bring plenty to the team in 2018,” Morgan said following training on Saturday morning.

"Saunders is no stranger to Magpie faithful of course. Not just from his Premiership exploits in 2012, but also in some of the glimpses he showed in 2017 including his seven goal outing against Surfers.That kind of score power is important to any team," Morgan added

"It’s no secret we were fairly undersized in 2017. To bring Dylan on board is very important for our overall structure," he said.

Saunders and Atkins add to the impressive list of recruits for the club, which has created a lot of excitement and optimism for the club in 2018.

For further info regarding playing at the Western Magpies in 2018 please call Brydan Morgan (Senior Coach) on 0423 861 361.

Place Player Update – Mitchell signs on for 2018

Reigning joint Bill Peirce Medallist and current Club Captain Drew Mitchell had no hesitation in putting pen to paper for season 2018.

"It was a very straightforward decision to renew my contract for 2018, the Magpies are a true family to me and I want nothing more than to see us build on our developing performance of 2017," Mitchell said at McCarthy Homes Oval on Friday. 

Mitchell played all of his junior football at Sherwood and he bleeds black and white coming from a long line of Magpie stalwarts who have been part of the fabric of the club for 40+ years. His grandparents, Ray and Flo Laing are Life Members of the club and his father Steve Mitchell was a multiple Premiership winning player for Sherwood. 

"While there is a genuine sense of purpose about the club right now, the most impressive thing I've noticed so far after just a few weeks back on the track is the hunger and attitude of everyone wanting to get the best out of themselves. There's plenty of talent and moreover great blokes who are wanting to play at the Magpies for all the right reasons, this should make us more competitive in 2018. We know we've got a mountain of hard work to put in but I think we've got the right group to build something special," Mitchell said. 

"The new additions to the club are settling in really well and it's given a few of the older heads a timely nudge with fresh ideas and new standards being set," said Mitchell.  

While Mitchell was a dual winner of the Best & Fairest in 2017, the season was frustrated by injury and he will be looking to go to another level as a midfield leader and regular goal kicker in 2018.  A dependable workhorse in the middle with his bullocking frame and superb endurance, Mitchell is at his best when he hits the scoreboard regularly as he did in the 2016 season, where he averaged well over 1.5 goals a game.

While it was always a formality, the Magpies were eager to sign Mitchell for 2018 to get it out of the way.

Club President, Andrew Thomson was naturally excited to confirm the signing of Mitchell for 2018. 

“It would be easy for us to lose focus on our loyal core by running around signing new players and forgetting about the guys that drive the group, but we were really keen to not fall into that trap," said Thomson.  

"It’s important that Drew and the other senior players who have put in the hard yards are shown the respect they deserve, so Drew was one of the first players I wanted to sit down with and get signed up for 2018. Loyal players like Drew, club juniors who move up the ranks and put the work in week in week out, year in year out are the heartbeat of a successful footy club."

"Yes, we know he bleeds black and white and it wasn't likely that he would go be going anywhere else, that said he’s the Club Captain and his signature is as important as anyone else. I look forward to seeing Drew bust through the middle in 2018 for a trademark goal from the midfield,” said Thomson.  

 For further info regarding playing at the Western Magpies in 2018 please call Brydan Morgan (Senior Coach) on 0423 861 361.

Place Coaches Update - Sam Joppich to coach U16s

The Sherwood Junior AFC are pleased to announce the appointment of Sam Joppich to the role of U16 Head Coach for the 2018 season.

Sam will fill the role vacated by Jake Fuentes after Jake’s promotion to Head Coach for the Western Magpies Colts (U18 side).

Sam is a former local Sherwood junior who grew up around the corner from the football club and progressed through the Auskick program and into the Senior/Reserve teams over a period of 10+ years. Sam is currently the AFL Excellence Coordinator at Woodcrest State College in Springfield as well as Assistant Coach for the South Brisbane Vixens U17 girls team.

Sam assists as a Development Coach for the AFLQ South running their Summer Development programs. Through this role Sam has developed strong relationships with both the AFLQ and the Brisbane Lions and their Academy.

“Culture is everything, a good culture breeds confidence, builds friendships and a willingness to learn, as Sherwood was my club I played at for over 10 years as a junior and into senior teams, I am looking forward to coming back to the club and moulding the next generation of footballers but more importantly, young men” Sam said.

Place Player Update - Corrie returns to The Nest

Western Magpies 2012 Premiership player Anthony Corrie is returning to The Nest in 2018 to play a key on-field mentoring role in a young Magpie outfit. 

After spending the previous 4 seasons at Kenmore Bears in a challenging player/coach role in the Division 2 competition, Corrie returns to the QAFL with a reinvigorated outlook and a committed focus to playing a key on-field role, while also imparting knowledge and supporting younger players at the club.

Speaking on Friday at Chelmer, new signing Anthony Corrie commented that the Western Magpies strategy around both football development and community engagement was the main drawcard.  

Corrie said, “It’s great to be back at the Western Magpies, a place that genuinely feels like a home away from home for me.

Spending the last 4 years at Kenmore Bears has given me motivation to continue on with the work I’ve done with them and now apply it within a semi-professional setting at Magpies. 

Aside from the great people at the Magpies, the main attraction to return was the challenge and opportunity to add value to both football and off-field. Professionally, family and football it just feels like a great fit.

With such a young and enthusiastic list, added support staff and a clear direction to get the best out of ourselves each week, I am excited for the first time in a long time about footy.

Giving back is key and I get a buzz from giving back to the game that has been so generous to me so far in my career,” Corrie said.   

Additional to an extensive football resume, which includes AFL experience at both Collingwood and the Brisbane Lions, Corrie brings well-rounded life experiences and a sincere drive to play an active role in developing young people, both as footballers but as leaders in the community.

Magpies Board Director Andrew Thomson said, “We’re delighted to have ‘Nuxy’ back at the club for 2018 and beyond, as anyone that’s been involved with him knows that while he has plenty to offer as a footballer, it’s the whole package that attracts clubs like ours to good people like him. 

In his previous stint with us, he was a regular at the club assisting with junior and youth football. He also did a fantastic job coaching our U/18 side and is a credit to himself and his family the way he conducts himself,” said Thomson. 

The Western Magpies are hosting a pre-season ‘Meet and Greet BBQ’ on Sunday 12th November from 3:00PM. Returning players, coaches and club members will be on hand to welcome all new players in a social environment. There will be quality live music, great food and a warm social atmosphere to connect player’s prior to official training commencing on 22nd November. 

For further info regarding playing please call Brydan Morgan (Senior Coach) on 0423 861 361.

PRE SEASON: https://www.facebook.com/events/1506873086016840/ 

2018 Sherwood Magpies JAFC Coaching Opportunities

Sherwood Junior Australian Football Club is calling for applications from interested parties for the following roles for the 2018 season:

Junior Football Coordinator – responsible for the oversight of all teams in the Under 8 – Under 11 age groups including appointment of team officials, mentoring coaches and upholding the values and objectives of the club.

Youth Football Coordinator – responsible for the oversight of all teams in the Under 12, 14 and 16 age groups including appointment of team officials, mentoring coaches and upholding the values and objectives of the club.

Junior Coaches and Assistant Coaches (U8 – U11) – these positions are primarily responsible for the education and encouragement of players with a focus on basic skill acquisition, teamwork and enjoyment. Coaches will liaise regularly with the Junior Football Coordinator.

Youth Head Coaches and Assistant Coaches (U12, U14, U16) – these positions will be responsible for the training and development of all Sherwood Youth Football players in accordance with club policies and guidelines. Coaches will work closely with the Youth Football Coordinator as part of the overarching development objective of the club. The club expects to offer multiple teams in each of the above age groups.

Applications and enquiries should be directed to Shaun Barrett at sherwoodjuniors@aflbj.com no later than 5pm Friday 8th December 2017. Please include a summary of your experience and any other information relevant to your application.

Place News - Magpie Quartet Named in QAFL Top 50

Western Magpies had four players named in the QAFL Top 50 players for 2017.

Skipper and co-Bill Peirce medallist Drew Mitchell led the way, being named at No 25 on the list in recognition of a strong season in the mid-field.

A breakout season saw Pies 2017 B & F runner up and QAFL representative Tom Ileasi named at No 38 while co-Bill Peirce medallist Gareth Crawford was recognised for a consistent season at the coal-face and came in at No 37.  

David Lewis was named at No 47, which is remarkable given he played just over half a season before a knee injury ended his year. His write-up demonstrates why he was named.  He also represented Queensland this year.

Certainly Charlie Pershouse in particular could consider himself unlucky seeing as only a few weeks back he was named in the QAFL Team of the Year!

25. Drew Mitchell

A consistent workhorse around the packs, the ball-winner and Magpies skipper was one of the most important players in the black and white this year.

Mitchell seemed to get better as the season went on and his strength around the contest and strong leadership was sorely missed in the final rounds when he missed through injury.

From his fourteen games Mitchell registered in the best players six times and tied for the Magpies best and fairest with Gareth Crawford.

37. Gareth Crawford

Crawford is no stranger to the QAFL Top 50 list, after coming in at number 50 last year. The ball winning beast hasn’t slowed down either; he continues to win the footy for the Magpies in close and go about his business.

As a senior player on a young list at the Western Magpies, Crawford leads the way, consistently providing high level output and physicality around the ball.

38. Tom Ielasi

‘Smart,’ is the word that comes to mind when thinking about Tom Ielasi as a player, but he’s also pretty tidy by hand and foot as well.

A versatile, clever midfielder, Ielasi can play off half back, through the middle and can even pinch hit up forward where he can be particularly dangerous.

Ielasi was deservedly selected in the QAFL representative side this year, played 15 games and was named in his sides best players 10 times, while also kicking 10 goals.

47. David Lewis

Sometimes the best way to notice a player’s value is what happens when they go down with an injury. Lewis’s knee injury caused serious issues for the Western Magpies toward the end of the season and they missed his star quality badly.

The high leaping Lewis takes some great grabs and can be damaging with his kicking when he’s on song.

Of his eight games Lewis featured in the best five times. One of the best highlight reels in the QAFL.

Westpoint Auto - Coaching Vacancy Update

The Western Magpies Football department and senior committee wish to congratulate 2017 Senior Assistant Coaches Sam Long and Adam Holland on their recent appointments to Head Coaching positions at Yeronga Devils in QFA Div 1 Competition and Redcliffe Tigers in QFA Div 3 Competition respectively.

Both Sam and Adam were valuable contributors in their time at the club and will be sorely missed in 2018.  As both clubs play in different competitions to the Magpies, we also have no hesitation in wishing both gents a hearty good luck for 2018 seasons! (Especially Longy, who will still be having a kick on Friday nights with the Woodies)

In other news, Brett McEvoy has been appointed to look after the Brisbane Lions Academy midfield and Strength & Conditioning Coach - James Nightingale has accepted a role with the Brisbane Roar A-League squad, an excellent result for both and underlining the professional environment at the Western Magpies.

These recent appointments show the Western Magpies to not only be an exceptional talent pathway for young footballers, but also aspiring coaches.

As a result the following vacancies remain:

Colts – Head Coach

Level 1 Accreditation Required with desire to attain Level 2

Key criteria:

• Focus on development of players to prepare them for Senior Football
• Ability to identify specific player weaknesses and implement the required development coaching through senior football program
• Work closely with Senior Coach to understand and implement structures and desired ball movement
• Experience and/or ability to work with young men aged 15-18
• Adopt and grow the Magpie ‘one club’ culture

Senior Assistant Line Coaches

The Western Magpies Senior QAFL Side operates with the following structure:

Senior Coach, 3 x line coaches (mid, forward, back) then a number of additional roles like stats, video, development, strength & conditioning that spread across the senior football program.

If you have the desire to coach, mentor and develop footballers to learn and improve, as well as develop your own skills (including interpersonal, leadership and of course football) then we would love to talk to you about joining the team for 2018.

Coaching experience, or senior playing experience is desired as is a Level 1 Accreditation with a desire to achieve Level 2.

As a senior line coach you will play an integral role in a fantastic football culture that continually grows from within.

Please submit all applications to president@westernmagpies.com.au by Friday November 3, 2017

Place Player Update - Harwood signs on for 2018

Recently delisted Brisbane Lion Ryan Harwood will join the Western Magpies for the 2018 QAFL season, after officially signing with the club in recent weeks.

“We’ve got a really young group, so his experience and leadership will be just fantastic,” said Senior Coach Brydan Morgan.

“You’d think you’d see him go through the midfield and probably at either end depending on where we might need him I guess.”

Harwood was drafted with pick 47 in the 2009 National Draft by the Brisbane Lions and played 81 AFL games, including nine in 2017. Along with his AFL appearances, the Tasmanian product performed strongly at NEAFL level this year, including a four goal performance in round 17.

The 26-year-old chose the Magpies as a result of a connection with Mark Blackberry, established while Harwood was playing at the Lions.

“(I’m) looking forward to it, can’t wait,” said Harwood.

“They’re my old club colours as well, black and white, from when I used to play at Glenorchy.

“I’ve pretty much only worn that jersey and a Lions jersey, so it’ll be good to get back into it.”

The Magpies finished in 6th place on the QAFL ladder in 2017, just missing out on the finals after Top 3 finishes the previous 2 seasons. As a result of the exit of 12 players after the 2016 Prelim final loss, 2017 turned into a transition year with a young list of players including 10 debutants and the young side did well to be in the finals hunt until the final siren of the 2nd last round of the H&A season

The signing of Harwood is great news for the club, who are in need of more senior players and leadership in a young group. The Queensland climate and proximity to some great fishing and hunting locations, was another factor in Harwood rebuffing offers from clubs all over Australia.

Harwood looks likely to be the first of a few names that could be donning the black and white for the 2018 QAFL season, as we look to take a more aggressive approach in the recruiting space this off-season.

“Aggressive enough. Without being over the top, we still value our young kids coming through,” said Morgan.

“We certainly need some more players in their late twenties just to give that experience and leadership.

“So we’ll be looking to sort of fill those holes, so to speak - hopefully with a few familiar faces returning home, as well as a few new names as well"

Watch this space Magpie fans!

MACK Trucks - Life Member Inductions

VAL POPE, CHRIS DENNIS, BRIAN MILLAR and REID DOBSON AWARDED LIFE MEMBERSHIP

The Sherwood District AFC (incorporating the Western Magpies AFC) awarded Life Memberships to Val Pope, Chris Dennis, Brian Millar and Reid Dobson at the Bill Peirce Medal Night last Friday

Val Pope joined the Pies in 2004 and has played over 200 Senior Games, is a two time Bill Peirce Medallist, three time premiership player and was named in the QAFL Team of the Year in 2015. He has been a crowd favourite at Chelmer for over 12 years and continues to delight the Black and White faithful. He has been a loyal servant of the club and has rarely had a bad outing in his 200+ senior appearances.

Chris Dennis has been involved with the Pies for over 12 years. He was a junior coach for 5 years and joined the Board of Directors in 2011 and remains a Board member, with his key focus being Infrastructure and Facilities where he has played a key role over the years securing grants and managing facility upgrades such as field upgrades, new changerooms and the the light upgrades to name just a handful of major achievements in his tenure.

He was Junior Chairman from 2012-14 and was aslo club President in 2015.

Brian "BM" Millar has been a fixture at Chelmer for 18 years and has been involved in all but one season of the Western Magpies. He joined in 2000 and has been an assistant coach and team manager in every season. He is at training every night, ensuring that all is in place so the coaches can concentrate on coaching. He has hardly missed a match and has seen the highs and lows of the Pies but enjoyed three premierships in his time at the Pies.

Reid Dobson has played over 220 Senior games for the Magpies in addition to 50+ Reserves games and a few outings with the Woodsmen after also playing as a junior at Sherwood prior to that.

He is a two time premiership player and was named best on ground in the 2006 Premiership. He was a member of the club's leadership group for 6 seasons and was also 2 time JB Medal winner for the Reserves Best & Fairest and League Reserves Best and Fairest winner in 2010. He was also best on ground in the Woodsmen's 2014 Premiership and won the Nipperess Medal for Best & Fairest in the same season.

He coached the club in youth football in 2016 and then took the Colts to this year's Grand Final.

The club also acknowledged Paul Grentell and Rob Lawson,  who were awarded their Life Memberships at the club's AGM in December last year but not formally presented with their badges.

Paul Grentell had a distinguished career at senior level after starting as a Sherwood junior in 1980 as a 7 year old. He captained the club for 2 years when the Western magpies were formed then coached Reserves for one season then for 6 seasons at Senior level for two premierships. He still acts as a mentor and adviser to the club. He has been involved at the club for 35 years, 17 of those years in Senior football.

Rob Lawson has been a fixture at Sherwood since 1964 when he played in Under 15s and was the first Sherwood junior to play Senior football at the club when the senior team was formed in 1968.

He played seniors for 6 years and played in two premierships. he has been a junior coach and committeeman and over the past few years has been heavily involved in ground maintenance and match day preparation.

CFMG Capital - Club Award Presentations

The Bill Peirce Medal count is also an opportunity to recognise a number of people withing the football club for their dedication to the the club.  While recognition for great exploits on the field are important, its equally important to recognise the efforts behind the scenes with some prestigious awards during the evening with some very popular winners.

Awards presented during the evening were as follows:

Club Persons of the Year -  Peter Wilmot and Michelle Shepherd.

Peter joined the club this year and acted as a team manager and senior support staff and was at most training nights and matches ensuring that all playing and match day equipment was in place to support the coaches and medical staff. He helped clean the change rooms and was always on hand to lend a hand or do another job to ensure the Pies were well prepared each week.

Michelle was the Colts Team Manager and she became a key figure in the team’s success. Nothing was too much to ask of her, she was always positive and engaged. Michelle radiates her love for footy in everything she does - often backing up after the Colts games to help out with the Seniors and Reserves.

The Barry "Phantom" Johnstone Award for the player who gives over and above went to Colts player Max Webber who gave hours of his time to assist with junior coaching throughout the year.

The Russell Green Memorial Trophy for Coach of the Year went to Colts coach Reid Dobson and this was presented by Russell's son and Magpies player Matt Green.

'Dobbo' did a fantastic job leading the Colts side all the way to Grand Final day while also preparing players for a strong future in senior football.

Place Pictures - The Papparazi at Bill Peirce Medal Night

CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO SCROLL THROUGH

Coopers Friday Night Footy - Superb finals series secures Moore's first Nipperess Medal

Former Senior captain and dual Premiership player Gerard Moore took home the Woodsmen’s Best and Fairest Award, the Nipperess Medal, polling 34 votes to be ahead of joint Runners-up in Andrew Thomson and Sam Curtis on 29 votes.

Slightly different to the Seniors, Reserves and Colts - the Woodsmen B&F is decided by a single voting card each week with votes tallied 1-6.

Thomson shot out to an early lead before a mid season purple patch from Curtis, where he polled 21 votes in a 4 week stretch, saw him take a slight lead into the finals.  With both Curtis and Thomson unavailable for the qualifying final, a strong showing from Moore brought him one vote shy of Curtis heading into the Preliminary Final.  While the Woodsmen went down in another tight one, anyone who was at the game knew Moore had the medal firmly in his grasp with a clear best on ground performance earning him a maximum 6 votes, while Thomson's 4 votes brought him level with Curtis.

In 3rd place was Chris Davis, who also took out the prestigious Woody's Woody (Players Player) Award for the 2nd year running.

Other award winners were Senior Assistant Coach Sam Long, who ironically took out the Scott Keane Medal (Coaches Award), Andrew Bell for 'Hard Wood' (hardest at the footy), Rick Masterson and Daniel Hitchcock as joint winners of 'Club Wood' for Best Clubman, Rick Masterson the Rising Woody (Best First Year Player) and rounding out the awards was playing coach, Chris Mihalopoulos as the leading goalkicker with 43.

Anytime Fitness - Sheath shades Austin to win Maurie McNamee Medal

Midfielder Jacob Sheath was a narrow winner of the Colts Best and Fairest Award, the Maurie McNamee Medal.  The Toowoomba product started the year in defence but was a revelation when moved to the midfield. Sheath polled 62 votes to be a narrow winner over early leader and 16 year old CHF Jack Austin on 60 votes.

Half back Tristan Dowdy was third on 55 votes with others to poll well were Zac Stegmeyer (53), Sam De Nys (52), Max Webber (50), Ethan Sivijs (43), Hamish Campbell (40) and Caleb Franks (36).  

It was a tight finish with 5 players finishing within 10 votes of the winner, which shows the evenness of this side who finished on top of the ladder while also supplying several debutants to the senior side.

The Runner-up Trophy was awarded to Jack Austin with the Most Consistent going to Tristan Dowdy and Best Team Player to Max Webber.  The Coach’s Trophy went to Whitlam Bishop, Best in Finals was Sam Hartog and Leading Goalkicker was Jordan Bonney on 31 goals (3rd in QAFL).

Westpoint Autos - Crossley holds off charging Page to win 2nd JB Medal

Centreman Bryce Crossley added a second Reserves JB (John Burkitt) Medal to the one he won in 2015 when he was a narrow winner with 89 votes over defender Jamie Page (86) and fellow midfielder Joshua White (85).  Crossley opened up an early lead and then managed to hold off the charging Page and White to secure the medal.

Veteran Sean Mewing was next best with 56 votes after an injury interrupted season with Will Lloyd (54), Rohan Smith (43), Captain Gabe McKinnon (42) and youngster Dom Morrison (35) rounding out the leaderboard.

The Runner-up Trophy was awarded to Jamie Page and Most Consistent to Joshua White. Braydon Thomas was awarded Best Team Player after coming back after an ACL reconstruction and Joshua Uebergang was awarded the Coach's Trophy after a standout first season playing Australian Rules. Leading Goalkicker was Jeremy deRooy with 26 goals.

Genuine Garage Door Solutions - Thrilling Bill Peirce Medal Count comes down to the wire

The Bill Peirce Medal for the Western Magpies Best and Fairest was jointly won by midfield workhorse Gareth Crawford and captain Drew Mitchell.

In an exciting count, Crawford polled votes in the final 2 rounds to reel in the early leader in Mitchell, who missed games late in the year through injury.  Mitchell and Dave Lewis shot out of the blocks before injury put an end to Lewis season while Crawford came from the clouds late in the year to run down the early season leaders.

The voting system has 3 cards of 5-4-3-2-1, with all votes completed by members of the coaching staff, the maximum votes in any one match was 15 votes, with Tom Ielasi the only player to achieve a perfect score of 15 in the final round vs Morningside, while Crawford polled 14 once and 12 twice.

Mitchell led 64 votes to 48 voters with 2 rounds to play but Crawford polled 12 votes in the second last match against Labrador and then another 4 votes in the final match at Morningside to tie up the count.

Mitchell had a purple patch from round 6 to 10 where he polled 31 votes to open up a 22 vote lead after round 10.

It is the first time there has been a tie in the Bill Peirce Medal Count.

For Mitchell it is his First Senior Best and Fairest but he comes from Sherwood/Western Magpies royalty with his father Steve and uncle Rob premiership players at the Pies and his grandparents Ray and Flo Lang both Life Members of the club.

Crawford has a distinguished football resume in the western border area of Victoria, winning a Western Border League Best & Fairest and also a Best & Fairest at Hamilton Kangaroos in their first season after amalgamation of bitter rivals Hamilton and Hamilton Imperials several years ago.   

The medallists were presented their Medal by Bill Peirce himself. Peirce was the Magpies first Grogan Medallist, was a seven time captain, two time coach and two time B & F for Sherwood as well as playing in several premierships and close to 300 senior matches for the club in addition to over 150 reserves outings.

Runner-up in the voting was silky mid-fielder Tom Ielasi, who polled 58 votes. Young ruckman Aaron Highlands was next with 49 votes, a superb effort in his first season in the top grade. Other votegetters in the mix were Logan Murray (46), Harry Marshall (45), Brenton Saunders (44), Jack Goodall (38), two time Bill Peirce Medallist, 200 game player and new Life Member Val Pope (36) and leading goalkicker Jake de Winter (35).

Ruckman Aaron Highlands took out the much coveted BG Award for Courage and Commitment and was also won the Rising Star Award, highlighting what a big future he has in the next few years.

2014 Bill Peirce Medallist Ben Jaenke-Cain was named as the Joe Schaffert-Kevin Garner Memorial Trophy Most Consistent Player after another solid season.

Best Team Player Award was shared by youngsters in midfield hard-nut Logan Murray and consistent defender Harry Marshall and Coach's Trophy was awarded to the unlucky David Lewis, who contributed all year despite a season-ending PCL tear in round 10.

Jake de Winter was the Leading Goalkicker with 39 goals, averaging 3 goals per match.

Club Vacancies - Football Department & Committee

The Club has a number of opportunities to be involved at both board level and in the 2018 Football Department.

Coaching Vacancies:

2018 Reserves Coach

2018 Reserves Assistant Coach

2018 Colts Coach

If you are looking to be part of a quality football program, with a focus on teaching and developing young players then we would like to hear from you. 

Level 1 accreditation required.

to register your interest, please e-mail president@westernmagpies.com.au

Other Vacancies:

Range of opportunities to be involved in a fantastic community footy club playing the QAFL.  If you want to be part of a great team, and embed yourself in the culture of a fantastic club - then please get in touch.

Various match day roles required to be filled.

Board Vacancy

The Sherwood Football Club Board would welcome nominations for the position of 'Events Director'. 

Key focus of this role is to plan, manage and execute a calendar of events for the 2018 season with a focus on community, member, player and sponsor engagement.

Further to this, the club celebrates 50 years of Senior Football in 2018 and the 10 year Reunion of the magnificent 2008 Senior Premiership.

If you would like to be involved in this key portfolio and work with fellow like minded board members focused on the on and off field success of the Sherwood Football Club, please register your interest my e-mailing president@westernmagpies.com.au