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2008 Scholarships Need Adobe Reader? Photos ![]() Please take the time to browse some photos capturing the team in action Simply turn up at our training sessions or contact Training
Pre-Season Training starts Tuesday November 25, at 6.15pm at Stuart Park, North Wollongong. |
News Archives
Senior Club Presentation
To book your seats contact Stephen Rowland on 0419 963 913 or Stephen.Rowland@bluescopesteel.com Please RSVP by Friday 3rd October for catering purposes.
AFL Grand Final Day at the Builders
Once again we will be watching the AFL Grand Final on The Builders big
screen. All the action kicks off from 12.30pm on Saturday September 27
in The Builders Club Stardust Room. All players, supporters, family
and friends are invited. We're keen to have as many people as possible
attend. Watch out for advertisements in the Mercury in the week
leading up to the game and don't forget to tell all your friends. The
more people who come into contact with our club, the more people who
will come back in coming years as players, sponsors, volunteers and
supporters of the Lions. You can do your bit by inviting your family
and friends (especially all you Uni guys - we'd love to see a similar
turnout to the $1000 draw).
Anyone who's been at The Builders the past few years will tell you how
big an event Lions AFL Grand Final Day has become. Hope to see you all
there.
Wollongong Lions AFL Grand Final Function
Saturday September 27
12.30pm - 6pm
Illawarra Master Builder's Club Stardust Room
Full bar available
Sweepstakes (ie. 1st goal, Norm Smith Medal, Pick the Margin), Raffles, & Coin Toss available
Free Entry
Trivia Night Wollongong Lions are holding the 2008 Trivia night on Sept 12. This event always provides a great night, so read up on all those important facts and figures, and get your table organised.
When: Fri, Sept 12, 6:30pm
Tickets and other information, contact: 2008 Lions Ball Lions Seniors are holding the 2008 Lions Ball on July 26. This event always provides a great night, so dust off those Dinner Suits and get your table organised.
When: July 26, 7:00pm
Tickets and other information, contact: Redandwhiteonline.com - More Great Sydney AFL coverage Great review of Sydney AFL Rnd 9 with feature and photos of Lions V's Demons. Article and photos by Michael Shillito Read the www.redandwhiteonline.com article Mahony signs scholarship Wollongong Lions would like to congratulate 16 year-old Wollongong talent, Jack Mahony and his signing with Hawthorn Football Club under the AFL Scholarship Program. $1000 up for grabs Lions Seniors are running the first function for 2008. Its your chance to walk away with $1000.
When: June 21, 7:00pm
Tickets and other information, contact: Colin Bartlett named Volunteer of the Week Wollongong's Colin Bartlett has been named the Sydney AFL Round 7 Volunteer of the Week. Congratulations Colin, a job well done. Sydney AFL Representative Squad Fourteen players from the Development Representative Squad have been added to the Senior Representative Squad to prepare for the match against Victorian Amateurs at Henson Park on Sunday, 8 June 2008. Wollongong Lions players to make the squad are: Troy Bartlett and Adam McConnochie Coverage of the first rep game can be found at the following link: Sydney AFL Black Diamond Coverage Supporters World & Netfusion Technology
Wollongong Lions would like to welcome Supporters World & Netfusion Technology as new sponsors to the club.
Sydney AFL - Code of Conduct reminder All players, officials and supporters are reminded of the Sydney AFL Code of Conduct. Please refer to the link below for a copy of the latest document. The link will also appear as a permanent feature on the menu items on the left of the Lions homepage. Notice from Sydney AFL for all players, officials and supporters The following notice has been received from Garry Burkinshaw, Senior Football Operations Coordinator, AFL (NSW/ACT) Given that the 2008 season has only just begun and the fact that already we have had to deal with two racial vilification cases, it is prudent that all clubs re-visit the Sydney AFL Racial & Religious Vilification Policy. In summary in says: " No player/official/club member shall act towards or speak to any other person in a manner, or engage in any other conduct which threatens, disparages, vilifies or insults another person on the basis of that person's race, religion, colour, descent or national or ethnic origin". Could you please remind your players of there responsibilities under the said policy. Any player who is found guilty under this policy will be dealt with accordingly which could include a suspension or a requirement to attend an approved education program. Your assistance with this matter is most appreciated and if you have any queries please refer the matter to club officials. Lions trial for representative duty Four of our senior players, Troy Bartlett, Mitchell Hogan, Adam McConnochie, and Clint Wells have been selected to trial for representative duties against the Black Diamond AFL (Newcastle & Central Coast) on May 17. The squad, consisting of 35 players, will be coached by Danny Ryan and training will be held on Wednesday, 30 April, 7 May & 14 May at Henson Park commencing at 6.30pm. The squad will be reduced to 22 + 1 emergency to travel to Newcastle. 200 for Pete Veerhuis and still powering on Evergreen backman Peter Veerhuis played his 200th club game for the Lions against North Shore last Saturday. The 33 year old joined the Lions in 1993 from Turvey Park while attending the University of Wollongong, and apart from a brief stint with Campbelltown, has been a mainstay at North Dalton Park ever since. Pete played finals footy with Wollongong early in his career but missed out on playing in the Lions losing 1st Division grand final side in 1994 due to injury. In 1999, and wanting to play his football at the highest level possible, Pete joined Campbelltown in the then SFL. Pete played every game of the 1999 season including the Blues premiership triumph over Balmain. After taking the 2000 season off to help raise a young family, Pete returned to the Lions in 2001, only to play in another losing grand final side. But he finally tasted success with Wollongong as the Lions won their only senior Sydney premiership in 2004, their last season in the 1st Division. During his career, Pete has represented the Sydney AFL 1st Division representative side on 3 occassions, captained the Wollongong side in 2003 and been awarded life membership of the Lions in 2005. Everyone involved with the Wollongong club congratulates Pete on his 200th club game and hopes that he has a few more seasons to come yet. Redandwhiteonline.com - Great Sydney AFL coverage Great review of Sydney AFL Rd. 3 with feature and photos of Lions. Article and photos by Michael Shillito www.redandwhiteonline.com/forum/showthread.php?t=24609 RAMS AND RISING RAMS SQUADS ANNOUNCED
Congratulations to the following Wollongong Lions players named
Kale Temple in the Rams
MEDIA RELEASE FROM THE AFL (NSW/ACT) Wollongong AFC - Senior Coaching Appointment The Wollongong Lions are pleased to announce to club players and officials, the appointment of Jason Philp as the clubs new Senior Coach. Jason brings to the Lions an extensive coaching and playing history gained in Tasmania and more recently in the Sydney AFL.
Jason has more than 8 years experience in assistant coaching and player coaching roles, and has regularly led his teams to finals actions. Jason won several club and league best and fairest awards in the Southern Football League in Tasmania and was assistant coach in Kermandie's premiership in 2000. Work commitments brought Jason to Sydney in 2006 and for the last two seasons he has been player coach of the Southern Sharks. The Shire side went agonizingly close to taking out this year's flag, while on an individual level Jason claimed back to back Snow Medals. Making the announcement, Wollongong President Ian Ferguson said the club was excited to have Jason on board. "We've made great strides in recent years with promotion to the Premier League and the huge upgrade of facilities at North Dalton Park. But now we need to take strides forward on the field. Jason really impressed us through the interview process and we're looking forward to him developing our young group" Ferguson said. For his part, Jason said he was looking forward to the challenge of coaching in the Premier League and taking the Lions up the ladder. "I've kept an eye on the Lions in the last couple of years and know there are some really talented players at this club. The feeling I get is Wollongong should be winning more games than it has the last few years. I'm really excited to get started with the players and everybody at the club and make it happen" Jason said. The Wollongong Lions will commence their pre-season on Wednesday November 28 at North Dalton Park. Training will be held on Monday's and Wednesday for the majority of the pre-season and allows the clubs cricketers to honour those committments as well as attend football training. Training will revert to Tuesday/Thursday prior to the commencement of the season. A BBQ will follow the opening training session and our pre-season preparation will be outlined for all players. Jason can be contacted on 0408 415427 if you have any footy related questions or just want to introduce yourself. More details are to follow on our opening session, but in the meantime please make sure you are raring to go on November 28 and start spreading the word amongst your team mates. Please join with me in welcoming Jason on board for what is set to be an exciting season for the Lions. Regards, Stephen Rowland WAFC Football Operations Manager McConnochie Named Lions Best
Midfielder Adam McConnochie has won the Wollongong Lions Best & Fairest
Award for 2007 which was presented at the Illawarra Master Builder's
Club on Friday Night. McConnochie had an outstanding season for the
Lions and comfortably won the award from defender Clint Wells.
McConnochie's season included representing the Sydney AFL angainst AFL
Canberra and gaining selection in the Sydney AFL team of the Year.
McConnochie also lead the goal kicking at Wollongong despite playing
predominantly in an on-ball role. One of the highlights of the night was
club President Ian Ferguson being awarded an AFL Merit Award for
outstanding voluntary service to the game over more than 30 years. The
AFL Merit Award was one of just two presented across the state. The full
list of trophy winners on the night was:
Seniors
Reserves
Under 18
Club
Ferguson Honoured with Merit Award
Wollongong President Ian Ferguson has been awarded with an AFL Merit Award for outstanding voluntary service to the game over more than 30 years. The AFL Merit Award, which was presented to Mr Ferguson at Wollongong's Presentation Night last Friday, was one of just two presented across the state.
Lions Sporting Scholarships - 2008
The Wollongong Australian Football Club plays in the highly competitive
AFL Sydney Premier League. Two (2) sporting scholarships are available
for talented AFL players to pursue their passion for AFL with the
Wollongong Australian Football Club, while studying at the University of
Wollongong. The scholarships will be available to current and
prospective students studying in any undergraduate degree at the
University of Wollongong. They will support two students for one year
and will allow students to re-apply for the scholarship in subsequent
years. Preference will be given to applicants from outside of the
Illawarra region.
Lions Coaching Positions - 2008
Wollongong Australian Football Club is seeking applications for the
following coaching positions for the 2008 season:
*
Senior Coach
*
Reserves Coach
*
U18 Coach
The Lions possess a youthful and developing player list, a sound junior
base, enjoy superior training and playing facilities at the newly
redeveloped North Dalton Park, and are guided by a professional and hard
working committee. This is a golden opportunity for highly regarded and
motivated coaches to lead the Lions to success in 2008 and beyond.
Inquiries welcome - phone Stephen Rowland on 0419 963913
Please send written applications and football resume to:
Opportunities also available for new players.
AFL Grand Final Day at The Builders
Once again we will be watching the AFL Grand Final on The Builders big
screen. All the action kicks off from 12pm on Saturday September 29 in
The Builders Club Auditorium. All players, supporters, family and
friends are invited. We're keen to have as many people as possible
attend. Watch out for advertisements in the Mercury in the week leading
up to the game and don't forget to tell all your friends. The more
people who come into contact with our club, the more people who will
come back in coming years as players, sponsors, volunteers and
supporters of the Lions. You can do your bit by inviting your family and
friends (especially all you Uni guys).
Anyone who's been at The Builders the past few years will tell you how
big an event Lions AFL Grand Final Day has become. The Swans might be
gone but places on the Collingwood bandwagon are going fast. Get on
board!
IMB Wollongong Lions AFL Grand Final Function
Saturday September 29
12pm - 6pm
Illawarra Master Builder's Club Auditorium
Full bar available
Free Entry
Coaches Invite - Calling all past players Hi all,
I would like to extend an invitation to you all to attend our final match this Saturday
the 18th of August at North Dalton Park, against Western Suburbs.
After just going down in an exciting and hard fought effort against University of NSW last
weekend, the boys are committed to winning this one and making this our best season ever in
the states best AFL competition, the Sydney Premier League.
I would also appreciate you entering are our change rooms at any stage, as I would like to
demonstrate to the team, the history of the club and the role they are playing in its
future.
Please forward this email to other past players and feel free to contact me if you require
further information.
I hope to see you there.
Kind regards, Nathan
Coaches Update Hi all,
It's been a topsy turvy month or so for the Lions. During the wet period, we were lucky to
kick a football every now and again at training and our results were not what we wanted them
to be, despite some great efforts.
On the weekend we had a great win, with the boys demonstrating both the negative and
positive sides of what our great game can do with our minds. After a great start in the
first half against Balmain, we lost Troy Bartlett and Clint Wells, and our capacity to be
accountable during the third quarter. To the teams credit, they fought hard and lifted in
the last quarter to take a 22 point win.
We now look forward to a run home against some sides who we are more than capable of
beating. It will be important for the team to work hard on the training track and to turn up
with self-belief and prepared to play positive footy.
This week we play Campbelltown under lights at North Dalton Park. This will be a hard match,
but as we have nothing to lose, we should feel confident of gaining another victory.
Regards,
Nathan
WAFC Annual Formal Dinner Celebrate Wollongong Australian Football Club 3rd season in the Sydney AFL.
When: Friday 24th August 2007 Where: Illawarra Master Builders - Serenade Function Centre RSVP: 3rd August 2007 Contact: Ben Broadhead 0421 575 511 or wlions.ball@hotmail.com Coaches Update Hi all, Well its hard to believe, but we are already around the half way mark of the
season. So I thought I would reflect on the season so far and where to from here. We have
started differently to other seasons with two wins on the board and still vying for the
third. Not to worry though, I believe the men have improved over the initial stages, which
should set us in good stead for the remainder of the season with opportunities to win a few
more. Some people tell me we will not be playing finals this year, but I would be
disappointed if we did not keep trying because that is one of the main reasons for playing
this great game. The challenge we have ahead, is to ensure the Club sticks to its long
term plans by supporting its current playing list and that players remain focused on
continually improving and learning from their experiences. I believe success will take care
of itself and soon follow. There have been some great signs throughout our matches,
particularly only missing some wins through skill errors and poor finishing up forward.
Also, instead of only winning quarters here and there, we are constantly winning quarters
throughout each match. We will keep working towards winning four quarters of each match. I
am also proud that we have three players in the Rep Team this weekend and two narrowly
missing. We also have two players representing the club in an under 23s match to be played
with the Sydney Swans reserves. Well done guys, you deserve your place through consistent
form and persistence. Traits required to ensure this club becomes successful. Anyway, that
is enough from me. I hope everyone is enjoying the season and I look forward to seeing you
at our games throughout the remainder of the season. Kind regards, Nathan Bibby Latest Pictures
Here are some pictures from some games. 3
lions to play rep
Congratulations to Luke Norton-Smith, Troy Bartlett and Adam MacConnochie
who have made the Sydney AFL Representative team to play Canberra this
coming weekend. The Club are
proud of their achievements and wish them all the nest. The Club would
also proud of the efforts by Jimmy Weavers and Michael Toussis who missed
out narrowly on selection.
poor kicking cost the lions After an
good start, the Lions went down to a strong and resilient UNSW on Sunday
afternoon at Nth Dalton Park. Best players for Lions were Clint Wells,
Adam Patterson and Luke Norton-Smith.
sunday arvo footy at dalton park For a great
afternoon out, come and check out the action.
thank you Steve
sunday arvo footy at dalton park spend a night at the footy After a relaxing day with the family, on the beach or in the garden, why not finish off the day with some excitement. Come down this Saturday night and see the IMB Wollongong Lions take on the East Coast Eagles under lights at North Dalton Park. Although the Lions are yet to take out a major scalp this season, signs have been good for the team and the boys would love to upset the Eagles. First bounce for the Seniors is at 6.30pm, Reserves 4.30pm and Under 18s at 2.30pm. discipline needed to move forward Last weekend the Lions had a great opportunity to defeat last years premiers, Pennant Hill Demons. After a sensational first quarter which saw the team play a fast and efficient brand of footy, some poor discipline resulted in some crucial second quarter goals for the Demons. A poor third quarter gave the momentum and the lead to the Demons. The boys got back on track in the final term and relentlessly pushed on, unfortunately the Demons had taken to much away in that vital third quarter. Jimmy Weavers and Brad Patterson were some of the good performances. Congratulations to Jimmy Weavers and Troy Bartlett, who were selected in the weeks Sydney AFL Team of the Week. This Sunday, the Lions are up against West Sydney Magpies which will be another tough encounter for the team. However, the players now know what they are capable of achieving and with some improvement in a few aspects of the team, this is a very winnable game. Lions to push for momentum After victories against Balmain Dockers in all three grades last weekend, the Lions are wanting to build some momentum by pulling off a victory against last years Senior Premiers. Lions go
down in front of large crowd Last night was the Clubs first matches of the Sydney AFL Premier season and all three grades meet very strong St. George outfits. When the Wollongong Lions Senior team ran onto the ground, they were meet with an electrifying atmosphere. The young outfit were positive entering into the match, but were soon to learn they were up against a tough, strong and well drilled St. George. The first quarter saw the Lions stick to their running style of play, but some critical skill turnovers resulted in goals St. George. For the following two quarters, St. George continually extended its lead as the Lions were unable to use the half forward line effectively and keep their forward line open. The backline worked tirelessly, took pride in their possessions and did the best it could against the pin point delivery St. George were giving its forwards. The Lions now need to determine how they are going to learn from this match and what can be taken from it to improve on throughout the season. In the other matches, the Under 18s thought a hard match, but were not up to the task on this occasion. The Reserves had a slow start and were threatened by a blow out result, but thought back hard in the last quarter kicking eight goals to three to provide some positive points to use in future matches. An encounter under lights The Wollongong Lions get to start their Sydney AFL campaign by playing St. George at the recently refurbished North Dalton Park under lights. After a long pre-season involving training at various venues, the Lions will be given a chance to get their season off to a good start when they run onto the new grass under new lights. Like all games in the Sydney AFL, St. George pose a great challenge for the Lions, who will be implementing a fresh team plan complimented with young and fit players ready to take the next step. We invite families, friends and anyone interested in a great night out, to come along. Match:
Wollongong V St. George
Lions Season Launch A successful season lunch was held on Saturday March 31 at the Illawarra Master Builders. President Ian Ferguson welcomed all to the new season ahead and thanked the McConnochie Family for their recent financial contribution to the Club which will help meet financial obligations relating to the recent North Dalton Park redevelopment. Senior coach, Nathan Bibby, announced Luke Norton-Smith as the senior captain and Troy Bartlett as Vice-Captain. Reserves coach, Michael Love, announced Jade Collyer as reserves captain and Sam Lewis and Pete Veerhuis as Vice-captains. Camp
2007 Using the North Dalton Park club rooms as a base, the Lions put in a hard and enjoyable training camp last weekend. The objective of the camp was to introduce players to challenging scenarios, new approaches to training, and allow them the opportunity to learn and develop an awareness of what they can achieve. The camp got off to a great start with teams completing an orienteering course along Wollongong's beautiful foreshores, which also provided an introduction to Wollongong's rich history. The afternoon featured the "Hasselhoff Cup". A series of Ironman based events on North Wollongong Beach. Although a little sore and tired, it did not take long before the competitiveness emerged. The banter reached its peak during the glamour "Flags" event. Congratulations to Michael "Bondi" Scerri for taking out the overall honours. After a long day, a weary bunch of players attended the Season Launch at the Illawarra Master Builders. The final day of the camp saw an early morning skills session at Stuart Park, followed by a fitness section and warm downs. The boys now look forward to the last few training sessions before the first game of season on the evening of Saturday the 14th of April, 2007. Lions Season Launch The annual Season Launch takes place at 6.30pm on Saturday March 31 at the Illawarra Master Builders Club. We invite all players as well as their family and friends welcome. Jumper presentation and announcement of leadership group will follow team dinner at 7.30pm. Swans V Eagles from Telstra Stadium will be broadcast. tough
day in the sun With limited numbers, two hard fought games were played against the Campbelltown Blues at Monarch Oval. A number of players were courageous throughout the day, volunteering to play several quarters in both the reserve and senior games. The Blues proved to strong on the day, but provided the players with a hard contest that will help fitness of the players. We now eagerly await our first game of the season. good
wins first up The Lions had good first up wins in practice matches against Balmain held at Wagener Oval in West Sydney. Both the Reserves game and Senior game were played hard by both teams and the Lions emerged close victors. It was the
Lions first chance to have a full hit out and try out its new and emerging
players. The Coach, Nathan Bibby was very happy with the way both grades
applied themselves and stuck to the team plan. lions
announce bibby as new leader of pride Premier division club Wollongong Lions have announced their new coach for 2007 as Nathan Bibby. View article on www.sydneyafl.com.au View coaches update for comments from the Nathan.
lions under lights View the 2007 Sydney AFL Fixtures Lighting the way for North Dalton Park a fresh start Pre-season training is being coordinated by ex-player and Club champion, Trevor Burnett. Trevor brings experience and dedication to the role and is eager to see players reach and maintain their fitness peak throughout the season. Trevor will also be involved in regular season training. Attendance has been good, but there are still some players to arrive. It has also been good to see some new faces at the training sessions and we hope they are enjoying it and will be here for the season. |
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