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INSIDER:What do you attribute most to your (personal) exceptional start to the season?

ASHLEY:Good teammates

INSIDER:What expectations does the group have on how far they can go in 2021?

ASHLEY:If we stick to our processes, results will take care of themselves.

INSIDER:Who would you have at the club kicking for goal to win you a game after the siren?

ASHLEY:Geoff Hunter

INSIDER:Tell us about Josh Rensch, Best on Ground last week, 17-year-old on debut...

ASHLEY:Pretty lucky to have him at the moment, he’s a special talent, gun - one of four from the Rebels.

INSIDER:If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish?

ASHLEY:Toast, simple bunch, LOL.

INSIDER:Favourite AFL Club and player?

ASHLEY:Collingwood, John Noble

INSIDER:Who at the club is really not as funny as he thinks he is?

ASHLEY:There's plenty, but I'll go with Callum McKay.

INSIDER:What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy?

ASHLEY:Ping pong

INSIDER:Who wins the 2km time trial at Lakers?

ASHLEY:Lachie Dodd or Jessie McLean

INSIDER:Which Lakers player would be the best chance to win a million dollars on a quiz show?

ASHLEY:Nick Rippon

INSIDER:What TV show did you binge-watch during COVID?

ASHLEY:The Office (UK)

INSIDER:If you could add any forward, mid and back to your side from within the BFNL, who would you take? Name one of each.

ASHLEY:'Vintage' Bryce McDougall (East Point forward), Lachie Cassidy (Sebastopol), Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)

INSIDER:Does the club expect to see former Western Bulldog Fergus Greene play this season, given his affiliation with Box Hill?

ASHLEY:Yes, well, he's keen. But his VFL form is very good at the moment.

INSIDER:Give us your flag tip (outside Lakers) and your Hendo tip for 2021...

ASHLEY:Sebastopol and Lachie Cassidy

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INSIDER: What do you attribute most to your (personal) exceptional start to the season?

BLAKE: The coach Dan Roy. He allows to me explore my strengths with a license play my own game. Dan's been a massive influence for me on the back of a solid, albeit lengthy pre-season.

INSIDER: What expectations does the group have on how far the Devils can go in 2021?

BLAKE: Early days but naturally finals. Our focus is on development but injuries aren't helping at the moment.

INSIDER: Who would you have at the club kicking for goal to win you a game after the siren?

BLAKE: Shane Page, proven.

INSIDER: Who would you least prefer to share a room with on a footy trip away?

BLAKE: Harley Inglis or Mitch Ward - too much energy!

INSIDER: Tell us about Matthew Brett and Ryan Kemp...

BLAKE: Class above, you can tell they've come from a higher level

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

BLAKE: Toasted sandwich

INSIDER: Favorite AFL Club and player?

BLAKE: Hawthorn, Marcus Bontempelli.

INSIDER: Who at the club is really not as funny as he thinks he is?

BLAKE: Corey Cullen

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy?

BLAKE: Athletics, Cross Country running

INSIDER: Who wins the 2km time trial at Darley?

BLAKE: Adam or Andy Azzopardi or Jack Bewley

INSIDER: Which Darley player would be the best chance to win a million dollars on a quiz show?

BLAKE: Tom Evans

INSIDER: Who would you rate as the best team you've played this year?

BLAKE: Melton

INSIDER: If you could add any forward, mid and back to your side from within the BFNL who would you take - name one of each.....

BLAKE: Braeden Kight (Melton), Daniel Burton (Bacchus Marsh), Josh Gibson (Ballarat)

INSIDER: Which of the other Devils youngsters do you think has the greatest scope?

BLAKE: Joel Cadman

INSIDER: Give us your flag tip (outside Lakers) and Hendo tip for 2021....

BLAKE: Too hard to tell for flag. Hendo - Nick Stuhldrier (Bacchus Marsh)

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INSIDER: Rate the Lakers season so far compared to last year? What's different?

BRAYDEN HELYAR:A bit more identity/vision this year. The vibe is up on last year.

INSIDER: Tell us about tall dual combo Tom Zampatti and Felix Fogarty?

BH:Zampatti - fitted in really well. Back from ACL. 100% effort. Fogarty - could be one of the best future players in the league.

INSIDER: What do you think the Lakers need to start challenging for a top six position?

BH:Another star player, probably an A-grade midfielder and to continue the internal growth.

INSIDER: Who wins the Lakers’ family Olympics? The O’Connell’s or Helyer’s?

BH:Definitely Helyer’s.

INSIDER: Recruit Jaydo Wright had a frustrating start to his Lakers move. How's he tracking after a couple of return games?

BH:Starting to come into his own now with more confidence in the ankle. More to come, watch this space for Jaydo!

INSIDER: Bailey Thompson has kicked 30% (16/54) of all Lakers goals this year. How does he do it? Even against the really good sides he's hitting the scoreboard!

BH:All heart, cracks in, excellent goal awareness, craft and the fact he doesn't like to handball always helps!

INSIDER: Best team you've played this year?

BH:Melton

INSIDER: What are three non-negotiables we would expect Rohan Brown to write on the whiteboard?

BH:Intensity, Pressure, Effort.

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

BH:Bailey Thompson

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

BH:Lincoln Koliba (16yo)

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 20m?

BH:Sam Canny

INSIDER: Favorite ground to play on away from Lake Wendouree?

BH:Eastern Oval

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

BH:Gavin Maher

INSIDER: Who is the last person you would want to share a room with on a footy trip?

BH:Tom Zampatti

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

BH:Chorizo Pasta

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

BH:Callum McKay

INSIDER: Toughest opponent?

BH:Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh)

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

BH:North Melbourne / Charlie Comben.

INSIDER: Tip for the BFNL flag?

BH:Melton at this stage.

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other clubs to your list, who would you pick?

BH:Brett Bewley (Darley), Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh), Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh).

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INSIDER: Congratulations on making it through to a Grand Final - the response in last week’s Preliminary was emphatic - how’s your confidence levels and the general vibe of the group heading into the big one?

BRENDAN MCCARTNEY: Forgive the run against Darley in SF2 but we're still improving.

INSIDER: Does the 'just another game' cliche fit a Grand Final in your eyes?

BM:Well, it is. It's a game of footy - you do your best - whatever happens, happens. The heightened interest is more external.

INSIDER: It's the club’s first Grand Final appearance since 2015 - have you managed to tick all the boxes since your appointment? Unfortunately, we'll never know how your undefeated 2021 season would end...

BM:Our aim has been to provide a pathway for our younger blokes and we're doing that.

INSIDER: How are you enjoying your return to local footy?

BM:Been great. Had a ball largely due to the quality of people at the club.

INSIDER: From your observations how is the standard of footy in the BFNL - would it stack up around the state?

BM:The good teams play well and would measure up.

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect you to write first on the white board?

BM:Attack the ball.

INSIDER: You've one of the more premier ruckman in the comp in Cam McCullum - more broadly, how do you value the importance of the ruckman in modern day footy?

BM:Critical. They've always been super important. First picked.

INSIDER: Who has been the one opposition player that has caused you the most grief in any one game?

BM:Simon Black when I was at the Cats.

INSIDER: What other sport could you coach at a high level if there were no footy?

BM:Most ball sports require team strategy.

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

BM:Jack Riding

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

BM:Josh Sparkman

INSIDER: Who at North Ballarat would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

BM:Jamie Quick

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

BM:Taj McMillan

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

BM:Mick Ryan

INSIDER: What’s your poison (preferred drink)?

BM:Beer - Melbourne Bitter

INSIDER: What's your favorite TV series or Movie?

BM:Sport Docos

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

BM:BBQ

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

BM:Ryan Hobbs

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're funnier than they really are?

BM:Ned Nash

INSIDER: Favorite AFL player?

BM:Matthew Scarlett

INSIDER: Finally, describe your opponent this week, Darley, today in a word?

BM:Tough

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INSIDER: Congratulations on making it back to the Grand Final - do I sense a healthy rivalry developing between Darley and Redan?

BRETT FAULKHEAD: We respect Redan, great rivalry. We lift a little more for Redan!

INSIDER: How has your club embraced the women’s program?

BF: Full support from the club. Pathway will expand with U/19 addition

INSIDER: Is external interest in the women’s game on the rise ie crowds?

BF: Slowly - needs greater coverage

INSIDER: What does women's footy need to fast track its development?

BF: More teams, AFL grass roots support

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect you to write first on the white board?  

BF: Have fun, respect for each other

INSIDER: Who is the most under rated player at the club?

BF: Charlotte Hill

INSIDER: What other sport could you coach at a high level if there were no footy?

BF: Table tennis

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

BF: Maddie Lister

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

BF: Matilda Rawlings

INSIDER: Who would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

BF: Kim Bessell

INSIDER: Who is the quickest in the team over 20m?

BF: Macy Le Huray

INSIDER: What is your favourite ground to play on away from home?

BF: City Oval

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

BF: Ben Skinner

INSIDER: Describe your coaching experience in 5 words or less?

BF: Enjoyable, challenging, entertaining, rewarding, exciting

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

BF: Spaghetti

INSIDER: What tv series would you recommend for us this Spring?

BF: Yellowstone

INSIDER: Invite 3 of your favorite celebs to dinner - take your pick?

BF: Paul Newman, Jack Steele, Ben Skinner

INSIDER: Who from the playing group would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

BF: Madalyn Clarke

INSIDER: Do any of the girls have annoying habits or superstitions they repeat before matches?

BF: Not really, each to their own

INSIDER: Who is your team’s number one fan?

BF: Lorissa Edwards

INSIDER: Favorite AFLW club and player?

BF: St Kilda, Georgia Patrikios

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INSIDER: About time we got you At the Bar - you've twisted our arm for long enough! How long has it been for you at the Bloods?

NABBY:33 years - arrived at the club in 1991.

INSIDER: Strange one, but did you have offers to join other clubs as an administrator over the journey?

NABBY:Over the journey yes - I’ll withhold club names out of respect.

INSIDER: How are the Bloods travelling mate?

NABBY:Tracking well this year, promoting within. Year to date – successful.

INSIDER: And more importantly, how are you travelling at the moment - how's your health?

NABBY:In between a pacemaker and prostate cancer life couldn't be better for the last 2 years.

INSIDER: Maccy Park is a love it or hate it venue - given its location and exposure to the elements. Is the ground a bit firmer than you'd like - to the eye, apart from the middle it looks rock hard?

NABBY:We'd like a softer surface sure. It's a grass (type) issue, not a surface issue.

INSIDER: You've been a fan of interleague over the years and placed a huge onus on socialising with other clubs, win or lose, is that club policy or do you just enjoy the social aspect?

NABBY:I enjoy the people you meet on the journey and the thrill of seeing them again years later wherever that may be.

INSIDER: You've done well to hang onto all those talented juniors (1 pointers) and keep them inside the cap. They must be a special bunch of lads who value club first ahead of themselves?

NABBY:They've played all their footy together right up through juniors - their loyalty is very much appreciated by the club.

INSIDER: Is it written in small print they must buy a car from you at Melton Toyota upon signing on?

NABBY:Very much so - #1 condition of all signatures!

INSIDER: Where are you seeing the greatest area of growth at club level?

NABBY:Started with the juniors moving to Maccy Park - keeps us all on the same page with vested interest.

INSIDER: Were you ever any good at footy - what was your version of your biggest day out before we get it confirmed?

NABBY:No glory on it, plenty off it!

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, over the journey which player at the club could do things on-field that others couldn't?

NABBY:Hugh Carey

INSIDER: Who was the highest profile player you almost landed at Melton?

NABBY:David Barnes! The pen ran out of ink, that's why David ended up at Darley.

INSIDER: Strangely, no Premierships in the RDFL and three in the BFNL - is that unders? Have the Bloods left a few out there?

NABBY:For sure. We lost 4/4 Grand Finals in the 1990's!

INSIDER: You look like a nervous watcher of footy and happier when it's all over - how are you on match days?

NABBY:Nervous wreck, no matter who or where we're playing. Come 5pm I’m a happy man!

INSIDER: What is your favorite ground to visit away from MacPhersons Park?

NABBY:Darley Park on and off the ground.

INSIDER: Favorite footy person over the journey outside of the club?

NABBY:Kelvin Dale and Mick Whelan

INSIDER: Invite 5 of your favorite Bloods over the journey to the Dinner table - take your pick..

NABBY:Hugh Carey, Darren Brown, Craig Berger, Jack Walker, Adrian Monitto

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

NABBY:Sausages, chips and an egg with gravy!

INSIDER: What tv series would you recommend for us this Winter?

NABBY:Foxtel sport - best reality tv show on earth!

INSIDER: Which one of the following most relates to you - Reader, viewer, gamer, commentator, raver?

NABBY:People do say I’m a raver!

INSIDER: Best three players you've seen at the Bloods in your time there?

NABBY:Hugh Carey, Mark Hunter, Danny Del Ray

INSIDER; Best or favorite three players from other clubs over the journey?  

NABBY:David Barnes (Darley), Brendan Treblecock (Sunbury), Brett Bewley (Darley)

INSIDER: Any truth in the story you signed former star Melton South junior and Western Bulldog Darren Stanley on a napkin in the late hours at a night club?

NABBY:Yes, 100% true over a Scotch!

INSIDER: Who wins - the Premiership Bloods of 2000, 2001 or 2022?

NABBY:The 2000 team gets the nod

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

NABBY:Sydney - Luke Parker

INSIDER: Biggest danger to the Bloods this year?

NABBY:Darley on a good day

INSIDER: If you could have three current players from other BFNL clubs join Melton who would you recruit?

NABBY:Brett Bewley (Darley), Matty Johnston (East Point) and Jordy Johnston (East Point)

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INSIDER: The Devils are travelling along nicely - in the here and now are you better than last year?

CHLOE OUGHTRED:Very similar. However, we're a different team from last year having lost a few/gained a few.

INSIDER: The standard of women's footy is heading in the right direction - what have you noticed at the local level - name three features in order re growth onfield..

CO:Cleaner skills, longer kicks and played at a faster pace.

INSIDER: Tell us about your coach Brett and what he has brought to the group?

CO:We had Brett in charge last year as well – he’s really big on resilience which has been massive for us!

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect Brett to write first on the white board?  

CO:Lower your eyes!

INSIDER: Take us to the final siren and the realisation you have just won a flag...describe the feeling and what went through your head?

CO:Relief but also couldn't believe we've actually won it!

INSIDER: Who is the most underrated player at the club?

CO:Maddy Lister

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy?

CO:Pool/snooker

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

COE:Lilli Condon

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

CO:Charli Parsons-Jones

INSIDER: Who at Darley would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

CO:Kim Bessel

INSIDER: Who is the quickest in the team over 20m?

CO:Trinity Skenderis

INSIDER: What is your favorite ground to play on away from Darley Park?

CO:CE Brown Reserve

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

CO:Ben Skinner

INSIDER: Invite 5 of favorite celebs to the dinner table - take your pick..

CO:1. Brayden Maynard 2. Heath Ledger 3. Beyonce 4. Ash Barty 5. Sam Kerr

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

CO:Some sort of pasta, doesn't matter which!

INSIDER: What tv series would you recommend for us this coming Winter?

CO:Painkiller

INSIDER: Which one of the following most relates to you - Reader, viewer, gamer, commentator, raver?

CO:Reader

INSIDER: Who from the playing group would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

CO:Susan Watson

INSIDER: Do any of the girls have annoying habits or superstitions they repeat before matches?

CO:Emmerson Hitch plays her own DJ mix pre game, even though they're average!

INSIDER: Who is your number one footy critic?

CO:My Dad

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

CO:Collingwood, Brayden Maynard.

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INSIDER: What has impressed you most about going back to Sunbury?

Cody Brand:Enjoying my footy, playing with mates.

INSIDER: You're known to a few as a 'key back' - how was your Round 1 experience playing as a deep forward (kicked 1.4) - are you expecting to play a full season forward?

CB:Yes it would be great, loving the change and dynamic.

INSIDER: Great win over North Ballarat, Cody... what advice would you give opposition clubs preparing to play Brendan McCartney's boys?

CB:Run and gun - make the most of your opportunities.

INSIDER: Give me your votes for Saturday's win over North Ballarat....

CB:5.J.Guthrie (Sunbury), 4. J.Chatfield (North Ballarat) , 3. H.Power (Sunbury), 2. J.Bygate (Sunbury), 1. S.Crameri (North Ballarat)

INSIDER: Describe how your coach Travis Hodgson was feeling after the win on Saturday?

CB:Very excited but grounded. Reminded us consistency is the key.

INSIDER: External expectations on the club this season are high, what are they like inside the four walls?

CB:No ceiling, we're a young group - one week at a time.

INSIDER: You've got Melton this week, tough ask - how are the confidence levels? Only Sunbury and North Ballarat beat them last year - that's a plus....

CB:Quietly confident, but fully aware they'll be there at the business end.

INSIDER: Describe AFL experience with the Bombers in five words...

CB: Fun, educational, maturing, hard-work, rewarding.

INSIDER: Who is your toughest footy critic?

CB:Mum 100 percent, she’s a shocker.

INSIDER: Your Dad Ashley and Uncle Rohan were high quality players at Sunbury. From what you've heard growing up around the club, who gets the nod?  

CB:Close, but probably Dad. Sticks did have his fair share of 'the man' moments though!

INSIDER: Over your short stay to date, which player has shown you to have the most upside?

CB:Harry Power.

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 20 m?

CB:Reggie Miller – easily.

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

CB:Matthew Power.

INSIDER: What's your favorite TV series or movie at the moment?

CB:The Entourage.

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

CB:Lasagna! Even Mum rates it (it's her recipe)!

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're funnier than they really are?

CB:Tyson Lever.

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

CB:Essendon, James Stewart.

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INSIDER: I remember you as a skinny 16-year-old winger with some good outside speed. Now, a vice-captain of the club (well done), how would you like the 20-year-old version of yourself (the player) to be seen by your peers?

CODY: Someone who has a crack.

INSIDER: You've had some good wins in recent weeks, confidence must be high at the Panthers. Competitiveness aside, what other areas of improvement are you seeing? 

CODY: Belief and confidence.

INSIDER: Name the one non-negotiable we would expect your coach Heath Pritchard to write first on the whiteboard?   

CODY: Pressure  

INSIDER: You've seen some quality come in and out of the club over your journey, who's the best you've seen?

CODY: Dylan Conway 

INSIDER: Who is the most underrated player at the club? 

CODY: Logan Brett!

INSIDER: Name your favourite BFNL ground to play on away from home?

CODY: Clarke Oval, Sunbury

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there was no footy? 

CODY: Cricket

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

CODY: Mitch Fino

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

CODY: Jarrod Bibby

INSIDER: Who (at Melton South) would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

CODY: Brody Sullivan

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

CODY: Will Thornton-Gielen

INSIDER: Who is the best trainer (footballer) on the track?

CODY: Shaun Wyatt

INSIDER: Who is your favourite footy person at the club?

CODY: 'Dennis'

INSIDER: Who is the last person you would want to share a room with on a footy trip?

CODY: Jayden O'Loughlin 

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish?

CODY: Oven pizzas

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show? 

CODY: Riley Theo 

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely be seen eating a kebab downtown, 4 am on a Sunday morning?

CODY: Rhys Lee

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're a whole lot funnier than they really are?

CODY: Michael Scicchitano

INSIDER: Surely, you have a celebrity crush.... c’mon mate, tell us all!?

CODY: Dua Lipa

INSIDER: Favourite AFL club and player?

CODY: Adelaide Crows, Rory Sloane

INSIDER: BFNL flag tip (can't be Melton South)?

CODY: Sebastopol 

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other BFNL clubs to your list, who would you pick?

CODY: J. Cotter - Melton (back), L. George - Redan (midfield), N. Rodda - Darley (forward) 

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INSIDER:Redan were woeful [in Round Five], when do you expect to get the troops back - namely The Big O, Izaac Grant, Dean Chester and Alex Harvey (we know Hoy - season)?

COOPER:Expect Izaac, Dean, Harves [in Round Six]. Big O, another week

INSIDER:In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't? 

COOPER:Lachie George

INSIDER:How on earth did you end up wearing the random #34?

COOPER:Stuck with me since debut. Trying to make it my own now.

INSIDER:Who would you have at the club kicking for goal to win you a game after the siren?

COOPER:Izaac Grant

INSIDER:Who at the club thinks they're funnier than they really are?

COOPER:Jarrett 'The Rooster" Giampaolo

INSIDER:What do you think a pass mark for the club is this year?

COOPER:Grand Final 

INSIDER:With which BFNL club do you share your greatest rivalry?

COOPER:North Ballarat

INSIDER:Which school in Ballarat has the best footy side these days?

COOPER:St Pats

INSIDER:What makes Lachie George such a good player?

COOPER:His balance / body control / leadership

INSIDER:What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy? 

COOPER:Rugby Union

INSIDER:Which Cooper is the quicker at the club over 30m - you or Atchison?

COOPER:I'd have to say me, proven!

INSIDER:Who is the last person you would want to share a room with on a footy trip?

COOPER:Dean Chester

INSIDER:Who is your favourite footy person at Redan?

COOPER:Liam Hoy

INSIDER:If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish?

COOPER:Porterhouse steak - no complaints whatsoever!

INSIDER:Favorite AFL club and player?

COOPER:Melbourne, Jack Viney

INSIDER:If you could add three players from other clubs to your list, who would you pick?

COOPER:Riley Polkinghorne (Noth Ballarat City), Ben Dodd (East Point), Ned Nash (North Ballarat City)

INSIDER:Flag tip outside of Redan?

COOPER:Melton

INSIDER:Henderson Medal tip (outside of Redan)?

COOPER:Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat City)

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INSIDER: How does reaching the Grand Final in your second year at the club compare to your other achievements in footy given you took over after a winless 2021?

DAN JORDAN:I've never put a ceiling on it - but in reality, we haven't achieved anything yet.

INSIDER: Does the 'just another game' cliche fit a Grand Final in your eyes?

DJ:Preparation yes. In the context of the season, it's clearly not as much as we would like to be.

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect you to write first on the white board?

DJ:Win/halve the contest

INSIDER: The wider competition holds Brett Bewley in the highest regard – what are his biggest strengths?

DJ:His strengths are his complete game, inside and out, he’s tough match up and his preparation is super.

INSIDER: Who has been the one opposition player that has caused you the most grief in any one game?

DJ:Dustin Martin

INSIDER: What other sport could you coach at a high level if there were no footy?

DJ:Fishing (see Grant Wright, Digger)

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

DJ: Mace Cousins

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

DJ:Wil Johnson and Adam Azzopardi

INSIDER: Who at Darley would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

DJ:Billy Myers or Brett Bewley

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

DJ:Match race - Andy Azzopardi v Mitch Gardiner

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

DJ:Lorissa Edwards

INSIDER: What’s your poison (preferred drink)?

DJ:Vodka and Raspberry infused Mineral Water

INSIDER: What's your favorite TV series or Movie?

DJ:Old School - Frank the Tank (Will Farrell)

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

DJ:Schnitties on the BBQ!

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

DJ:Duncan Cadman

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're funnier than they really are?

DJ:Dan Jordan

INSIDER: Favorite AFL player?

DJ:Marcus Bontempelli

INSIDER: Finally, describe your opponent this week, North Ballarat, in a word?

DJ:Tough

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INSIDER: Congratulations on your 300 games ahead of Round One, how's the body holding up at 37?

DANIEL:I'm pretty fresh, considering there's been very little footy with COVID over the last two years. To be honest, recovery is a slow process these days!

INSIDER: How would you describe yourself as footballer?

DANIEL:I think it's my athletic ability above all else that has got me through. I was a basketballer originally before transitioning later to football.

INSIDER: What do you consider to be the greatest change in the game over your journey?

DANIEL:Definitely, the speed of the game for one and the typical forward. There's not as many 'hulks' as there used to be. These days we're seeing more athletic, mobile types.

INSIDER: You would have played on some genuine stars of the BFNL over the last 20 years. Is there one opponent who stands above as the hardest to contain?

DANIEL:Yep, Dan Jordan.

INSIDER: Who is the best player you have seen at Bacchus Marsh?

DANIEL:On sheer ability, Jarrah Maksymow

INSIDER: Who has been your favourite Bacchus Marsh Coach pre-Tom German?

DANIEL:Travis Hodgson (2016 Premiership)

INSIDER: What's your favourite ground to play on outside of Maddingley Park?

DANIEL:Darley Park

INSIDER: Just on the old foe, can you describe the rivalry between Bacchus Marsh and Darley?

DANIEL:Early days it was ruthless, very tough. These days it's a more competitive (than combative) style, more mature if you like.

INSIDER: Who is your favourite club person(s) at Bacchus Marsh?

DANIEL:Tyson Shea and Simon LaFranchi

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 20-30m?

DANIEL:Ashton Craig

INSIDER: Who is the last person you would like to share a room with on a trip away?

DANIEL:Shaun Taylor (ex-player)

INSIDER: If you had to test your culinary skills and impress 50 people at the club for a 'one-off' food sitting, what would you serve up?

DANIEL:Hamburgers! (Really)

INSIDER: What's your poison - beer, wine or spirits?

DANIEL:Beer, Pale Ales

INSIDER: If you couldn't live in Australia, which country would you choose?

DANIEL:New Zealand

INSIDER: Tip for 2022 flag (outside of Bacchus Marsh)

DANIEL:Melton

INSIDER: Can we expect you to play on beyond 2022?

DANIEL:No, this will be my last year.

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INSIDER: Congratulations on your career Daz, how are the motivational levels right now amid finals?

Darren Leonard:Extremely high, very excited for the footy club.

INSIDER: What has Dan Jordan brought to the club in his two seasons?

DL:Calm approach, he’s a bit quirky and good banter

INSIDER: Are you afforded any favours on the training front given you're in the twilight of your career?

DL:No, not really - had to train after Christmas and still battling for my spot!

INSIDER: When Darley didn't win a game in 2021, did you think of giving it away or was that a kicker to go around again and chase redemption/team success if you like?

DL:Definitely go again, couldn't finish on a note like that!

INSIDER: What's becoming a father done for the way you see footy?

DL:Balance

INSIDER: Who of the departed Devils over the journey are among the best you've seen?

DL:Brian Graham, Steve Kennedy, Zak Butters

INSIDER: What are two non-negotiables playing under Dan Jordan?

DL:Play your role and blitz pressure.

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy?

DL:Water skiing

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

DL:Mace Cousins

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

DL:Will Johnson

INSIDER: Who at Darley would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

DL:Shane Page

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

DL:Mitch Ward

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

DL:Lorissa Edwards

INSIDER: Who is the last person you would want to share a room with on a footy trip?

DL:Grug! Harley Inglis

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're funnier than they really are?

DL:Dimmi!

INSIDER: Biggest threat to Darley for the flag?

DL:Melton

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

DL:BBQ - got it covered!

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

DL:Duncan Cadman

INSIDER: Who is DJ's favorite player?

DL:Duncan Cadman - there's some special connection going on there!!

INSIDER: Who's your biggest footy critic?

DL:BL, my Dad - can talk!

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

DL:Carlton, Zak Butters!

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other BFNL clubs to your list, who would you pick?

DL:Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol), Isaac Grant (Redan), Harry Minton-Connell (Sunbury)

INSIDER; Will this be your last season?

DL:Not sure!

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INSIDER: Congrats Elise on your VFLW debut with the Cats - how was that level compared to other representative matches you've played in? 

ELISE COOK:I really enjoyed the experience, it was a lot faster.

INSIDER: What was your role?

EC:Inside Mid and Centre Half Back

INSIDER: How did you end up on the Geelong VFLW radar?

EC:Through the Coates Talent league (GWV Rebels)

INSIDER: What would be the first non-negotiable GWV Rebels coach Sally Riley would write on the white board?

EC:United, relentless, discipline are the Rebels’ values.

INSIDER: Great news to hear of your selection in the Vic Country squad - when and where are the Championships this year?

EC:Queensland, July/August

INSIDER: What would you say are your greatest strengths and areas for improvement?

EC:Strengths - to read the play and be clean with my ball use. Improvements - To be more explosive.

INSIDER: Who is your harshest critic in the family?

EC:My brother Will!

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the Rebels can do things on-field that others can't?

EC:Millie Lang

INSIDER: Who at Bacchus Marsh has the most upside from a junior perspective?

EC:Anika Tran and Emily Kennedy

INSIDER: Who (at the Rebels and the Marsh) would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

EC:Rebels - Claire Mahony. Marsh - Olivia Dilges

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the Bacchus Marsh FNC?

EC:Sissa Bassett

INSIDER: What's your favorite thing that is considered authentically Australian?

EC:Tim Tams

INSIDER: If you won a holiday to anywhere in the world outside Australia where would you like to go?

EC:Greece or Italy

INSIDER: What's your favorite TV series to stream at the moment?

EC:Kath and Kim

INSIDER: Taylor Swift took Melbourne by storm earlier this year - are you a 'Swifty'?

EC:Not really

INSIDER: Give us your footy head rating out of 10?

EC:7/10

INSIDER: What's your favorite meal before and after a big game?

EC:Pasta

INSIDER: Favorite AFLW club and player?

EC:Geelong, Georgie Prespakis

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other BFLW clubs to the Cobras list, who would you pick?

EC:Bella Davies (North Ballarat), Tyla Crabtree (Redan), Claire Mahony (Lake Wendouree)

INSIDER: Shane, thanks for organising the chat - describe in a word how Elise's footy journey is travelling in your eyes?

SHANE COOK:Proud that she is progressing and enjoying her footy.

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INSIDER: You're part of a younger Redan list this year, how do you think you and the team are travelling eight rounds in?

FLYNN: The more we play together, the more we're improving. We're still working each other out.

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect your coach Jarrett Giampaolo to write first on the whiteboard?

FLYNN: The one-percenters - have a crack!

INSIDER: Lachie George has been terrific for the club, now in his third season after a career in the VFL. What makes him so influential? 

FLYNN: Treats everyone well, good teacher, explains things clearly, smart footy brain.

INSIDER: Who would win the battle over 10 different sports - you or your brother Cooper?

FLYNN: Me, easy!

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy? 

FLYNN: None, not much good at anything but got Mr Cool covered. (See previous question!)

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

FLYNN: Liam Hoy

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

FLYNN: Rory Gunsser

INSIDER: Who (at Redan) would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

FLYNN: Liam Hoy  

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

FLYNN: Sam McDougall (INSDR: surely Lincoln Barnes, stiff?)

INSIDER: Who is your favourite footy person at the club?

FLYNN: Gary Goyne

INSIDER: What's your comfort food?

FLYNN: Chocolate milk

INSIDER: What's your favourite TV series or Movie?

FLYNN: Shameless 

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely be seen eating a kebab downtown 4 am on Sunday?

FLYNN: Dean Matthews

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club, what would be your signature dish?

FLYNN: Spaghetti Bolognese

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show? 

FLYNN: Jack Jones

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're funnier than they really are?

FLYNN: Izaac Grant

INSIDER: Favourite AFL club and player?

FLYNN: Brisbane, Lachie Neale

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other BFNL clubs to your list, who would you pick?

FLYNN: Fletcher Toose (North Ballarat), Jarrod Curran (North Ballarat), Joe Nelson-Hill (North Ballarat)

INSIDER: Not the best timing to recommend three North Ballarat players, you play them this round!

FLYNN: We'll be right!  

INSIDER: Good luck Flynn!

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INSIDER: Your girls are flying undefeated at the moment, what do you attribute to the success of the North Ballarat netball program?

GEORGETTE PAATSCH:Hard working and committed. We really enjoy playing with and for one another and I think that translates to on court success.....oh and the fact that we all like each other is a bonus too!

INSIDER: You meet fellow undefeated team Darley in the Match of the Round this week, how are the confidence levels?

GP:We have an unchanged team from last year and we're quietly confident our connection will hold up. But, they will certainly give us a run that's for sure!

INSIDER: How much training goes on from week to week in preparation for games?

GP:90 mins on Thursday nights are compulsory. Extra training is expected in own time around individual work/life schedule.

INSIDER: Does the group engage in a pre-season regime similar to the football program?

GP:It's not as intense as the men (footy) but there are expectations on the group to maintain a level of fitness in the off season.

INSIDER: Considering all clubs are essentially netball and football clubs now, how do you rate - firstly the inclusiveness and secondly the importance of the Netball program to local clubs?  

GP:North are really good and I’m aware Sebastopol have a great culture / team environment as well. More and more footballers are catching some of the netball too which is a real positive.

INSIDER: How do you think the standard of the Ballarat (A Grade) competition stacks up against other regions across Victoria?

GP:Really strong. I played 10+ years in the Geelong FNL and I’m sure we could match it with the top sides over there.

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no netball?

GP:AFL - yeah, i'd give footy a go!

INSIDER: Who is the most underrated player at your club?

GP:Emma Church

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-court that others can't?

GP:Keely Smith

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

GP:Georgia Bodey

INSIDER: Who at North Ballarat would you like shooting for goal to win you a game?

GP:Maddy Selmon

INSIDER: Who is the quickest in the team over 20m?

GP:Bridie Hutchison

INSIDER: What is your favorite court to play on away from MARS Stadium?

GP:Redan, City Oval

INSIDER: Who is your favorite person at NBFNC?

GP:Annie McCartin

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

GP:Spaghetti Bolognese

INSIDER: What TV series would you recommend for us this Winter?

GP:Bridgerton

INSIDER: Who from the playing group would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

GP:Gina McCartin

INSIDER: Do any of the girls have annoying habits or superstitions they repeat before matches?

GP:Toilet break 3 minutes before every game - M.S, B.H, K.S (you know who you are!)

INSIDER: Who is your number one netball critic?

GP:My Dad

INSIDER: Favorite Netball player (any level)?

GP:Molly Jovic (Collingwood)

INSIDER: if you could add one player from another club to your side, who would it be?

GP:Tayla Honey (Sunbury)

INSIDER: Flag tip (outside of North Ballarat)?

GP:Sunbury or Darley

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INSIDER: Great wins over North Ballarat and Sebastopol this year, can you explain why there hasn't been more than the six so far this year? 

GRANT: Injuries haven't helped. Lost a couple to the Rebels.

INSIDER: How would you rate Liam Hoy's year since his return from that Achilles injury?

GRANT: Yeah, really good 'til he did his hammy - back this week or next.

INSIDER: What makes Izaac Grant so dangerous, he seems to hit the scoreboard every week?

GRANT: Skilful, clean, footy smarts - rarely misses

INSIDER: How many more playing years do you think Lachie George can go on impacting games at senior level? 

GRANT: Work/injury aside - another 2 or 3 at least

INSIDER: What are three non-negotiables coach Jarrett Giampaolo would write on the board?

GRANT: Pressure, hard around the contest, skill execution

INSIDER: Rumour has it that Lincoln Barnes is lightning quick...any examples other than the Stawell Gift?

GRANT: He takes the warm-up every night and tells us all! Pat Fitzgibbon reckons he's got him covered.

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

GRANT: Jacob Short

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

GRANT: Harry Lawson

INSIDER: Over your BFNL footy journey who is the best you've seen? 

GRANT: Derek Micallef (North Ballarat), Steve Kennedy (Darley)

INSIDER: You've played a lot of footy forward in your career, what's been your biggest bag?

GRANT: 11 v Melton in 2015 

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

GRANT: Patty Fitzgibbon… lol

INSIDER: Who is the best trainer (footballer) on the track?

GRANT:  Lachie George

INSIDER: Who is your favourite footy person at the club?

GRANT: Andrew Shultz

INSIDER: Who is the last person you would want to share a room with on a footy trip?

GRANT: Flynn Atchison

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish?

GRANT: I won't say Spag Bol... I'll go with Carbonara!

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

GRANT: Dean Matthews

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely be fined for driving too slow down the highway?

GRANT: Nick Barker

INSIDER: Favourite AFL club and player?

GRANT: Essendon, Zach Merrett

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy? 

GRANT: Indoor cricket!

INSIDER: The best side you've played this year?

GRANT: East Point

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other clubs to your list, who would you pick?

GRANT: Dylan Conway (Melton South), Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point), Daniel Kennedy (Ballarat)

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INSIDER: Congrats on reaching the Prelim Final - how's the morale of the group heading into Saturday?

HARLEY INGLIS: Everyone's really excited. Tough loss to Melton last week but we trained well this week - I’m hoping that translates to a win on Saturday.

INSIDER: East Point are a highly talented outfit - what needs to go right for the boys to progress another week?

HI: A fair bit! Get them at the source, win the midfield battle and get some forward pressure with repeat entries.

INSIDER: You had a break from the game post covid - can you explain why and what it's done for your love of the game?

HI: Covid was a strain, start, stop etc. I became a dad so my priorities changed but once I saw the boys running around in finals especially the Ballarat First Semi in 2022 - that really got me going!

INSIDER: It must have been pretty surreal playing three senior games last year and winning a flag - how were you feeling about footy given an apprenticeship back through the twos - was senior footy always on the radar?

HI: I was hoping always to get back - I thought I'd run out of time but it was awesome to get the call up for the finals. Rapt!

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect your coach Dan Jordan to write first on the white board game day?

HI: Know your role and stick to it!

INSIDER: Who is your harshest critic in the family?

HI: Jimmy, my dad!

INSIDER: Favorite ground to play on away from Darley Park?

HI: Eastern Oval

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy?

HI: Table tennis.... terribly!

INSIDER: Which of the following best suits you? A reader, a gamer, a commentator, a raver?

HI: A raver!

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

HI: Mace Cousins - done some crazy things!

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

HI: Adam Azzopardi and the Fawcett bothers

INSIDER: Who at Darley would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

HI: Billy Myers (it's been done before!)

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

HI: Leigh Spiteri with good hammies!

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

HI: The Barrel - Jake Ancrum

INSIDER: Are you a footy head - how do you consume your footy each week?

HI: Not really - just follow a few Instagram pages and a bit of SEN

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

HI: Chicken Schnitzel

INSIDER: Invite 5 people whoever you like to sit at the dinner table with you.....

HI: The Beatles (that's four), Leonardo DiCaprio (couple of good stories)

INSIDER: Who at the club would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

HI: Matty Denham

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're funnier than they really are?

HI: DJ (Dan Jordan)

INSIDER: Name a player that has any unusual, weird superstitions ahead of game time...

HI: I could write a book on Binga (Brett Bewley) - he runs a lap at halftime of the twos - that's only one of them!

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

HI: Collingwood, Scott Pendlebury

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other BFNL clubs to your list, who would you pick?

HI: Braedan Kight (Melton), Lachie Cassidy (Sebastopol), Andrew Hooper (Ballarat)

INSIDER: Henderson Medal tip?

HI: Brett Bewley (Darley) or Matty Johnston (East Point)

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INSIDER: You've played all six games so far this season injury free, and landed four times in the best - how are you feeling about your own game - what are you doing right and see areas for improvement?

Jack Bambury:Good start, been able to intercept the footy and stay in the game. Improvement will come from maintaining form.

INSIDER: What's your take on the theory that your four wins against bottom four sides (in first five games) left you vulnerable last week?

JB:No, I think North Ballarat deserved the win and just got away from us in the last quarter.

INSIDER: Where do you think the Burra are at the moment? You've played the bottom four sides and rank only 5th in the comp for shots on goal?

JB:Definitely got a few things to work on at training that we're confident will lead to more scores.

INSIDER: Does the thought of Interleague selection excite you? Is that something you would embrace and give your all for upon its return?

JB:Yes definitely, I would look forward to that opportunity.

INSIDER: Describe each of your two coaches Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro in 3 words or less?

JB:LK - Competitive, MC -Tactical

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect Luke and Michael write first on the white board?  

JB:Both - team first

INSIDER: Who is the most underrated player at the club?

JB:Ben Hutt

INSIDER: Name your favorite BFNL ground to play on away from home?

JB:Eastern Oval

INSIDER: You're a handy cricketer, which would you choose if you had to pick one over the other?

JB:Footy definitely.

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

JB:Hugo Papst or James Keeble

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

JB:Jacob Fletcher

INSIDER: Who at the Burra would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

JB:James Keeble

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

JB:Bailey Medwell

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

JB:George McIntosh

INSIDER: Who is the last person you would want to share a room with on a footy trip?

JB:Jed Hill

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're a whole lot funnier than they really are?

JB:Jed Hill

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

JB:Any type of pasta!

INSIDER: Your biggest footy critic?

JB:Mum or Grandma

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

JB:Collingwood, Nick Daicos

INSIDER: BFNL flag tip outside of Sebastopol?

JB:Melton

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other BFNL clubs to your list, who would you pick?

JB:Jordy Johnston (East Point), Bailey Van De Heuvel (Ballarat), Brett Bewley (Darley)

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INSIDER: Great year for you personally in a covid impacted season - how have you managed to stay on top of your game?

JACK:Keep fit over the breaks, avoid alcohol, work on strength and conditioning in own time.

INSIDER: In a freakish sense which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't? 

JACK:Kyle Borg

INSIDER: Who would you have at the club kicking for goal to win you a game after the siren?

JACK:Braedan Kight or Ryan Carter

INSIDER: What do you think a pass mark for the club is this year?

JACK:Play in a Grand Final

INSIDER: Which Bloods family would win a mini Olympics - Walker, Carter, Hickey?

JACK:the Walkers - there's 4 of us - numbers win out

INSIDER: Who would you rather on your Trivia team - President Brian McNabb or Coach Aaron Tymms?

JACK:Brian

INSIDER: Who is the best player you've seen play in Bloods colors?

JACK:Matt Nottman at his peak

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

JACK:Jake Buttigieg

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy? 

JACK:Basketball

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 30m?

JACK:Billy Crofts

INSIDER: Who is the last person you would want to share a room with on a footy trip?

JACK:Tommy Button

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

JACK:Chickpea Curry, they would love it 

INSIDER: Who at Melton is not as funny as he thinks he is?

JACK:Aaron Tymms

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

JACK:Western Bulldogs, Marcus Bontempelli

INSIDER: If you could add three players from other clubs to your list, who would you pick?

JACK:Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh), Mickitja Rottumah-Onus (East Point), Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)

INSIDER: If Melton don't win the flag, who would you rather?

JACK:Any team other than East Point - share the joy!