Crow call a 'disgrace': Kennett

Former Hawthorn president Jeff Kennett says the Adelaide Crows should not be taking part in next week's AFL draft. Picture: David Caird. Source: Herald Sun

FORMER Hawthorn president Jeff Kennett last night launched a blistering attack on the AFL for allowing Adelaide to take part in next week's national draft.

"This is absolutely unacceptable what the AFL are doing. It's a disgrace," Kennett told the Herald Sun.

"It's absolutely akin to Racing Victoria allowing Damien Oliver to race, knowing that he had serious charges levelled against him.

"I just cannot accept it. It staggers belief."

In a massive win for the embattled Crows, lawyers for the club yesterday forced the AFL to delay its hearings into claims they cheated on the salary cap with illegal payments to forward Kurt Tippett.

It means the Crows can keep all their picks in Thursday's draft on the Gold Coast - effectively delaying punishment for another 12 months.

An enraged Kennett, who contacted the Herald Sun, called on the AFL to delay Thursday's draft, rather than allow the Crows and Melbourne - under separate investigation for tanking - to take part.

"If they (the AFL) are saying that natural justice has got to be done, well then in that case, I would cancel the draft until the issue is resolved," Kennett said.

"By allowing this draft to continue and these two clubs to participate ... it just makes a mockery of the whole competition. It defies logic.

"I mean you've got a (Family) Court judge on the (AFL) Commission (Linda Dessau) and other people who are very bright individuals. How in God's name can they say that they are administering this code correctly when they allow a decision like this to take place?"

A new hearing date for the Crows is yet to be set but will not come in time to prevent Adelaide from replenishing its list with new young talent.

The Crows have picks 20, 54 and 64.

Melbourne learned last week that it had dodged a draft bullet because an AFL investigation into claims the club deliberately lost games in 2009 was not complete.

The AFL Commission was scheduled to convene on Monday and Tuesday to determine its penalties for the Crows over allegations of draft tampering and salary cap cheating.

Adelaide yesterday revealed the club, chief executive Steven Trigg, football boss Phil Harper and former football operations manager John Reid would be represented separately.

"The AFL has today advised the club and Mr Harper, as well as Mr Trigg, Mr Reid and Adelaide Crows-listed player Kurt Tippett, that the Commission will provide the requested extra time, and that the hearing will not proceed on Monday as previously scheduled, to ensure that natural justice is provided," the league said in statement.

"The 2012 NAB AFL Draft will proceed as scheduled next week."

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McGuire: AFL is five years too late

Collingwood president Eddie McGuire says the AFL's call on Chris Judd's deal with Carlton sponsor Visy is five years too late. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

THE AFL's decision to include Chris Judd's third-party deal within Carlton's salary cap for 2013 has come five years too late, according to Collingwood president Eddie McGuire.

And rather than mourning the AFL's decision to pull the plug on the deal, as revealed in the Herald Sun, the Blues should be popping champagne corks that they were to get away with it for so long.

"The fact that it has been changed is like the AFL saying they mucked up the rule in the first place, or for however long Chris Judd has been there," McGuire said yesterday.

"He has been basically paid out of the salary cap all of that time.

"According to the AFL's position now, Carlton has had a free kick of more than $1.2 million on the salary cap over the past five years compared to other clubs."

Judd's Visy deal is understood to be between $200,000 and $250,000 a season.

One of the leading critics of the controversial deal, and of other AFL inequities, McGuire said he was pleased the AFL had changed itsmind.

"Adrian Anderson (AFL football operations manager). Andrew Demetriou (AFL chief executive officer) and Ken Wood (AFL salary cap watchdog) sat down and realised this was something that was wrong," he said. "And they ditched it."

McGuire said he didn't care if the Blues were angry that he led the charge in opposition to the deal.

Blues chief executive Greg Swan yesterday joked he had to check the AFL letter to "see if it was signed by Eddie or Adrian."

But McGuire said he said he wanted a fair and level playing field for all clubs, not just for Collingwood.

"I have said from the word go that I don't care how much anyone pays Chris Judd, as long as every club has the opportunity to do the same thing," he said.

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Top pick in for ride of his life

Last year's top draft pick, Jonathon Patton, at home with mother Belinda and sister Lauren. Picture: Craig Borrow. Source: The Daily Telegraph

LACHIE Whitfield is the favourite to go No.1, but whoever is lucky enough to be first picked at Thursday night's AFL draft is in for the ride of his life.

It's a nerve-racking but awesome night.

This time last year it was me who had the honour of being named No.1 and it was an experience I'll never forget.

When your name is called it's a special moment.

You just feel honoured to be in the same company as names like Brett Deledio, Luke Hodge, Tom Scully and Matt Kreuzer to name a few. There have been a lot of great players who have been picked at No.1 and its very humbling to be alongside them.

My mum and sister were there and my older brother Chris was listening on the internet in California - where he plays division one basketball at Riverside.

My only regret is I didn't get more time to spend with my family to enjoy the moment.

After you're named you get carried off for interviews and photographs and they keep going for a couple of hours.

My advice to whoever goes No.1 is to make a good first impression on all the people you meet.

It will put you in good stead especially among your future teammates and club personnel.

One advantage the 2012 No.1 will have is he'll have plenty of Giants mates there to enjoy the night with.

GWS have the first three selections along with picks 12 and 14.

My only regret is I didn't get more time to spend with my family to enjoy the moment

Last year we had 11 of the first 14 and it makes a difference when you know these guys will be your teammates.

Another good thing for this year's No.1 is he'll have two teammates who have been through the experience - Tom Scully was selected No.1 in 2009.

It definitely helps knowing there are other people who have been in the same situation

It was difficult for Tom when he was drafted No.1 because Melbourne were really relying on him to be a future star so there was a tremendous amount of expectation.

If our next No.1 ever needs advice about how to handle it or any help in any way I'm more than happy to provide assistance. He can come to me or Tom Scully any time.

It's quite a thing to have three No.1 picks at one club.

Carlton have three with Marc Murphy, Bryce Gibbs and Matthew Kreuzer and they have all turned out to be outstanding footballers.

The other thing I would say to the No.1 is enjoy the night. It goes fast.

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Knights predicts pain for Crows

The Crows are back in the game

Chris Knights says the Kurt Tippett saga will impact Adelaide significantly. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

FORMER Crow and new Tiger Chris Knights has admitted Adelaide's salary cap saga could impact significantly on its 2013 season, despite the club being allowed to take part in this year's national draft.

Knights spent eight seasons with Adelaide before signing as a free agent with Richmond last month.

The 26-year-old says even though he has left the club, he still feels for the Crows and his former teammates as they face future AFL sanctions over allegations of illegal payments to Kurt Tippett and further scrutiny on other third-party deals.

"I do (feel for them)," Knights said after taking part in his first time-trial with the Tigers at Princes Park.

"They are (a great club).

"Kurt Tippett is a really good guy, he's a great teammate. He's in a really unfortunate situation at the moment and the same with the football club.

"But, as it goes, they're not going to miss out on draft picks this year, so in that respect they're all right but you want to go into every pre-season with not too many things going wrong.

"The (Adelaide) boys will start back soon and they'll just be focusing on training hard and doing what they need to do.

"But you don't really want these things happening on the side. It's big news for the AFL and hopefully there's a resolution."

Adelaide successfully sought more time to prepare for the AFL hearing into the Tippett issue, which has now been put back beyond Thursday's draft.

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Ex-Docker to train with Saints

Docker Dylan Roberton tackles Hawk Liam Shiels. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: The Sunday Times

DELISTED Docker Dylan Roberton will train with St Kilda in the hope of securing an AFL lifeline.

Roberton was one of three Fremantle players delisted yesterday after playing 37 matches for the club, including 10 this year.

The 191cm defender was originally recruited from Frankston and requested a trade to a Victorian club after the season, but a deal could not be done during the trade period.

The other two players cut by the Dockers before yesterday's list lodgement deadline, Nick Lower and Jesse Chrichton, will both continue to train with the club in the hope of being redrafted in the pre-season or rookie drafts.

In the latest AFL permission to train list, released today, Richmond has the most ex-AFL players at training, including two potential back-up ruckmen Cameron Wood and Orren Stephenson.

St Kilda also has five Sandringham players training with the main group in the hope of a draft promotion.

Axed Essendon midfielder Brent Prismall is training with the Bombers, but assistant coach Mark Thompson this morning gave him little hope of being re-drafted by the club.

Phantom draft - we predict the top 30 picks

PERMISSION TO TRAIN LIST

Adelaide: Nick Joyce (Adelaide Crows)

Brisbane Lions: Nil

Carlton: Andrew Collins (Carlton)

Collingwood: Nil.

Essendon: Tom Fields (Labrador), Nick Kommer (East Perth).

Fremantle: Jesse Crichton (Fremantle). Nick Lower (Fremantle).

Geelong: Nil.

Gold Coast: Derrell Acrey (USA Combine), Quin Porter (USA Combine).

GWS Giants: Nil.

Hawthorn: Nil.

Melbourne: Nil.

North Melbourne: Cameron Richardson (North Melbourne), Ben Speight (North Melbourne).

Port Adelaide: Nil.

Richmond: Addam Maric (Richmond), Orren Stephenson (Geelong Cats), Josh Toy (Gold Coast Suns), Cameron Wood (Collingwood).

St Kilda: Adam Cockie (Sandringham), Jackson Coleman (Sandringham), Chris Michaelides (Sandringham), Dylan Roberton (Fremantle), Michael Sikora (Sandringham), Anthony Soriano (Sandringham).

Sydney: Nil.

West Coast: Nil.

Western Bulldogs: Nil.
 

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Roos post record profit

North Melbourne fans enjoy Jack Ziebell's last-quarter goal. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

NORTH Melbourne has credited fan donations for helping the Roos post a record operating profit of more than $1 million.

The Roos today announced an operating profit of $1,193,080 for the 2011-12 financial year.

Interim chief executive Cam Vale said the club reduced its debt by $1 million with the help of its Box On campaign, while increasing revenue growth by $5 million.

"This is truly an outstanding result for the club and could have only been achieved with the remarkable support of our members and fans," Vale said.

"A record profit and reduction of debt in tough economic times is a remarkable outcome and highlights revenue growth across the board and controlled football expenditure."

Vale said he expected the Roos would be debt-free "within a few more years".

Earlier this week, Hawthorn's 60,000-strong band of members has helped ensure the club has posted a mega profit for 2012, reaping more than $2 million.

The Hawks profited $2,023,720, up about $300,000 on last year's result.

The Grand Finalist recorded a 7.4 per cent increase in members, boosting the number to 60,841.

"Our strong financial result is a credit to the hard work and dedication of management who constantly strive for excellence and innovation, and support their staff to do likewise," new president Andrew Newbold said.

Newbold thanked the 8731 Tasmanian members which signed up this season.

2012 AFL CLUB FINANCIAL RESULTS

Hawthorn: $2,023,720 profit

North Melbourne: $1,193,080 operating profit

Other clubs to follow

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Eagle charged over punch

The Crows are paying the price for greed

Eagles forward Murray Newman celebrates a goal. Source: Getty Images

The Library nightclub in Northbridge, Perth. Picture: Justin Benson-cooper Source: PerthNow

YOUNG West Coast forward Murray Newman has been charged with grievous bodily harm following an alleged incident at a Perth nightclub.

Newman, 18, was allegedly involved in an argument with another man at the Library Nightclub in Northbridge at about 1.30am last Saturday.

Newman allegedly punched the 18-year-old man in the face, which caused serious injury that later required surgery.

The club confirmed Newman had been charged and the AFL has been made aware of the incident.

"The club is bitterly disappointed that Murray put himself in that position and will await the outcome of the legal process before making any further comment," the club said in a statement this afternoon.

Newman played four games in his debut season for the Eagles, booting three goals and averaging almost nine touches per outing.

He will face court on November 30.

Under WA law, GBH is "any bodily injury of such a nature as to endanger, or be likely to endanger life, or cause or be likely to cause permanent injury to health".

It carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in jail.

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Crows dodge draft bullet

Adelaide Crows chief executive officer Steven Trigg speaks to the press. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: adelaidenow

Kurt Tippett is also facing charges over his 2009 deal. Picture: Simon Cross Source: The Advertiser

ADELAIDE will keep all its picks in this year's draft after the AFL agreed to delay its hearing into claims of salary cap cheating.

A new hearing date is yet to be set but the league advised today next Thursday's national draft "will go ahead as normal".

The Crows, expected to be stripped of picks as a penalty for illegal payments to forward Kurt Tippett, have selections 20, 54 and 64 in this year's draft.

The club, Tippett and officials Steven Trigg, John Reid and Phil Harper face a total of 11 charges relating to an alleged secret agreement with Tippett when he signed a new contract in 2009.

The deal allegedly involved third-party payments of up to $300,000, unapproved third-party deals with Crows sponsors including Balfours pies, and a promise to trade Tippett to a club of his choice for a second-round draft pick when the three-year contract expired.

The deal ran out this year and Tippett shocked the club by asking to be traded to Sydney. The Crows stalled on the Swans' offer of a late first-round draft pick and fringe forward Jesse White, plunging the club into crisis.

The latest charges were laid yesterday and the club and Harper requested more time to prepare their defence.

The Crows, football manager Harper, chief executive Trigg and former football operations manager Reid will all be represented separately at the commission hearing.

"The AFL has today advised the Club and Mr Harper, as well as Mr Trigg, Mr Reid and Adelaide Crows-listed player Kurt Tippett, that the Commission will provide the requested extra time, and that the hearing will not proceed on Monday as previously scheduled, to ensure that natural justice is provided," the league said in a statement.

"A new hearing date is yet to be set, but will be advised to all parties, the media and the wider football public as soon as it is determined.

"The 2012 NAB AFL draft will proceed as scheduled next week, Thursday November 22. The AFL has no further comment to make at this time."

New Crows claims 'a disgrace'

Adelaide has been trying to prepare its case in recent days, including finding witnesses who will appear before the commission.

The AFL confirmed witnesses would be allowed provided the commission was notified and they were relevant to the charges.

The club released a statement to key stakeholders yesterday that said in part: "We look forward to the hearing next Monday and then being able to explain directly to you and all our members, sponsors and supporters exactly what happened, why it happened and how it happened."

The statement was co-signed by chairman Rob Chapman and Trigg.

Adelaide is currently sorting through its list of witnesses to key events during the Tippett crisis, which has left the club under threat of being excluded for the draft for up to four years and handed heavy fines.

Phantom draft - we predict the top 30 picks

Law firm Kelly & Co's Peter Campbell said witnesses of fact were a priority.

"You'd think it's people that can either corroborate a version of the facts or dispute it," Campbell said.

"If the AFL has put forward a particular version and they (the Crows) want to bring people across to say that that's not how it happened, and that's why there can't be any penalties or fines on that, that would be the most likely."

Sticking points are expected to be who was present at important meetings, who put the pressure on whom to orchestrate a deal and when key people became privy to the matter.

The hearing will not proceed on Monday as previously scheduled, to ensure that natural justice is provided.

The battle is likely to be over which party can best prove its version of events as the most accurate.

There are expected to be several versions.

"They'll try to construct a whole factual chronology of it," Campbell said. "And I assume they'll bring witnesses up to back that up."

Monday's hearing is expected to spill into Tuesday. Cross-examination is expected to be intense, with both Tippett and the Crows hiring high-profile silks to mount their case.

Tippett has retained prominent QC David Galbally, who has vast experience in AFL matters.

The Crows hired David Edwardson QC, who successfully defended Perth barrister Lloyd Rayney in one of the most high-profile cases in Western Australia's history.

The Advertiser  reported Edwardson had also represented hit-run lawyer Eugene McGee, but to clarify, he acted only temporarily for McGee around the time of his arrest.

Jeff Gleeson SC will represent the AFL.

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Lower one of three Dockers axed

Fremantle has delisted Nick Lower, but the midfielder will continue to train with the Dockers in a bid to win a spot on the club's rookie list. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

MIDFIELDER Nick Lower's Fremantle career may not yet be over despite being delisted by the club today.

Lower, Dylan Roberton and Jesse Crichton were removed from the club's main list today ahead of the latest AFL lodgement deadline.

But Lower and Crichton will continue to train with the Dockers during the draft period and could yet be handed a lifeline in the form of a place on the club's rookie list.

Maligned forward Jack Anthony, who still has a year to run on his contract, survived the cut despite recently being asked to consider his future at the Dockers.

Anthony, 24, has managed just eight games in two seasons since joining Fremantle from Collingwood in 2010 on a lucrative three-year deal.

Lower played just three games at senior level last season - averaging 23 possessions per outing - after notching 19 appearances in 2011.

Roberton looks to have played his last game at the club after failing to appear at training for the club's young players yesterday.

The 21-year-old requested a trade back to his native Victoria, but the Dockers were unable to secure a deal for the defender.

North Melbourne also confirmed today that defender Cameron Richardson had been delisted, but the Kangaroos are committed to selecting him in next month's rookie draft.

Richardson played nine games for North in 2011, but was unable to regain his spot after undergoing hip surgery later that year.

Earlier this week, Essendon delisted Ricky Dyson, Brent Prismall and Ariel Steinberg, while Gold Coast parted ways with Taylor Hine.

All your club's delistings and retirements

GWS axed former Port Adelaide ruckman Dean Brogan to make room for a play at disgruntled Crows forward Kurt Tippett, while Crows youngster Nick Joyce was another casualty of the Tippett saga.

He was delisted by the Crows after the club was told it couldn't cut Tippett until after the AFL investigation into the club's alleged salary cup cheating is complete.

Port Adelaide has delisted Ben Jacobs, who is seeking a move to a Victorian club.

Melbourne midfielder Clint Bartram, 24, and Western Bulldogs forward Zeph Skinner, 23, announced their retirements from the AFL yesterday.
 

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Crows: We will fight every charge

Adelaide will defend itself over the Kurt Tippett charges. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: adelaidenow

ADELAIDE has moved to assure its key stakeholders the club will stand up for itself as it defends 11 charges of salary cap breaches and draft tampering before the AFL Commission next week.

The scandal surrounding Kurt Tippett's 2009 contract will be fiercely debated some of the countries most high-profile silks at AFL starting Monday at 1pm at AFL House.

The Crows have been instructed by their representative, David Edwardson QC, to keep a low profile ahead of the proceedings as to not do any damage to their defence.

But they asked the people who back the club to keep the faith in a letter sent out today.

The email had chairman Rob Chapman and chief executive Steven Trigg as its signatories.

"We want to tell you, as a Crows' member, sponsor or supporter, about the most recent developments in the AFL's investigation into our club's contract arrangements with Kurt Tippett,'' the Crows said.

"As you probably are aware, the AFL has laid various charges arising from its investigation.

"These involve the Club, our CEO Steven Trigg, our General Manager of Football Operations, Phil Harper, former General Manager of Football Operations, John Reid, and Kurt Tippett.

"We will explain everything to you as soon as we can. We appear before the AFL Commission on Monday next week to respond to the charges.

"Out of respect for the AFL process, we are unable to provide comment on these issues until that process is complete.''

The Crows also reassured their stakeholders they had never intended to break any of the rules and regulations.

Chapman and Trigg promised a full explanation for the fall of events would come as soon as the AFL Commission had handed down its decisions on the charges.

"We can say that we do not accept everything that has been reported in the media,'' the Crows said.

"Throughout the past three years and the recent trading period, it was always the Clubs intention to comply fully with all AFL rules on the draft and player payments.

"We look forward to the hearing next Monday and then being able explain directly to you and all our members, sponsors and supporters exactly what happened, why it happened and how it happened.''

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New Pies keep old numbers

Quinten Lynch joined Collingwood duringf the trade period. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD recruits Quinten Lynch and Jordan Russell will wear the same numbers with the Magpies in 2013 as they did with their previous clubs.

The Magpies have given former West Coast forward Lynch the No.21 jumper vacated by Sharrod Wellingham, who was traded to the Eagles.

And ex-Blue Russell has been handed the opportunity to wear No.2 following the retirement of Chris Tarrant.

Former Hawk Clinton Young will wear No.14 for Collingwood.

Luke Rounds, who wore No.14, has been delisted by the Magpies.

Johnson to play on with Pies

The younger players at Collingwood are due to start pre-season training on November 21 with the rest to resume a week later, according to the AFL website.

Collingwood's players will travel to Utah for a high-altitude training camp on December 4.

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Joyce chopped by Crows

The Crows are paying the price for greed

Nick Joyce has been delisted. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: adelaidenow

THE crisis engulfing the Adelaide Crows has claimed another victim with Nick Joyce being delisted by the club today because Kurt Tippett is still on the list.

The Crows had to cut Joyce because they need to take part in the national draft, and with Tippett not nominating for the November 22 national draft - he is expected to put his name up for the December 11 pre-season draft - Joyce was the unfortunate choice.

Adelaide has assured Joyce and his management their hand was forced, and would do everything in their power to rectify the situation by picking him up again.

He still has a year to run on his contract.

Crows List Manager David Noble said the club had been painted into a corner because of circumstances it could not control.

"It was not the Club's intention to delist Nick at this time but because Kurt Tippett remains on our primary list, we had to delist another player by today's deadline ahead of next Thursday's national draft,'' Noble said.

"(But) it is our intention to redraft Nick at the earliest opportunity post the AFL Commission's findings.

"The club is working closely with Nick's management and discussing the variety of options, with Nick's welfare being of the highest importance.''

Joyce, 19, was taken by the Crows at pick 46 in the 2011 AFL national draft. The and made his SANFL league debut this year with Woodville-West Torrens.

Joyce is a 185cm left-footer who represented SA with distinction at under-18 level in 2011. He did not play an AFL game in his first year at West Lakes.

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Bartram hangs up the boots

The Giants are out to snare Tippett

Melbourne's Clint Bartram has retired. Picture: Michael Dodge Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE midfielder Clint Bartram has retired at just 24, the victim of a degenerative knee condition which has already required experimental surgery.

The former Rising Star nominee has battled through the pain of a bone-on-bone knee and in August had last-ditch surgery to extend his career.

The Herald Sun understands Bartram has today retired after considering his future, pulling the pin on his career after managing 103 games in his seven years at the club.

The surgery saw the hard-nut tagger and small defender gaining six kilograms which was then harvested through liposuction and re-inserted into his knee

Pick Me: The Dees could jag the next Jobe Watson

It was hopeful that procedure combined with injections to generate cartilage growth might allow him to continue his AFL career.

But his knee has not improved enough for him to put his body through another pre-season.

Bartram has retired not only because he cannot play elite football, but also to preserve the quality of his life after football.

The Demons will be able to drop him off their list ahead of the second list lodgement, and take another player in the national draft.

Every retirement and delisting at Department of Trades

It will strip yet more valuable experience from the Demons list, with Brock McLean and Jared Rivers - the club's top-two finishers in the best-and-fairest in 2011 - already leaving the club as free agents.

Liam Jurrah and seven top-30 draft picks have also left, but the club has recruited experienced players Chris Dawes, Shannon Byrnes, Cameron Pedersen, Tom Gillies and David Rodan.

Bartram had battled with the knee problem for years, but all his options have now been exhausted.

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Skinner pulls pin on Dogs career

The Giants are out to snare Tippett

Western Bulldogs livewire Zephaniah Skinner has retired. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

ZEPHANIAH Skinner has quit the Western Bulldogs.

The talented indigenous forward will return home to his home in remote Western Australia.

Skinner, 23, played for the Dogs in their exhibition match in London last week but has been battling homesickness.

The Dogs will pick an extra player in the draft to replace Skinner.

Pick Me: The Dogs could land the next Trent Cotchin

He played eight games since joining the Dogs with pick 88 in the 2010 national draft.

List Manager, Jason McCartney said Skinner notified his teammates earlier today of his intent to return home to Noonkanbah in WA and effectively retire from AFL football.

Skinner Source: Northern Territory News

"Zephi, this morning, told his teammates that he will be retiring from AFL football and returning home to be with his family and community, where he feels a strong sense of responsibility," McCartney said.

"We really didn't want to lose Zephi, as he is a well-liked person here, but respect his decision to return home to his family.

"We thank him for all his efforts and wish him every success in the future.''
 

See every retirement and delisting at Department of Trades

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Cook says no to Roos job

North Melbourne failed in its bold bit to poach Geelong chief executive Brian Cook. Picture: Blair Hamish Source: Herald Sun

HIGHLY regarded Geelong chief executive Brian Cook has knocked back a $1 million offer to join North Melbourne.

The long-serving Cats boss told the Kangaroos today he wouldn't accept the lucrative offer to join the club as CEO.

The Roos described the decision as "disappointing".

It leaves the club without a CEO 162 days after the departure of Eugene Arocca.

"We wish Brian well in his future endeavours," North Melbourne said in a statement.

"The club will continue to search for a replacement CEO ahead of the 2013 season."

Cook, who turns 57 today, returned to work from holiday this morning.

"After receiving an attractive offer and giving it due consideration I am pleased to remain with the club," Cook said.

"I look forward to continuing to take on the exciting challenges facing the club with the full support of the board, staff and players."

Cats president Colin Carter said the board was "very pleased" with Cook's decision.

"We know that our very good people will receive attractive offers to move elsewhere and so we are particularly pleased that Brian has decided to continue his career with us.

"We look forward very much to working with him as we build towards more success in the future."

North chairman James Brayshaw will update members on the chief executive search at the club's best-and-fairest award tonight.

Captain Andrew Swallow is expected to win his third Syd Barker Medal.

Cat says finals are forgotten

Meanwhile, the Cats are confident veteran midfielders Jimmy Bartel and James Kelly will join pre-season training before Christmas.

Bartel, the 2007 Brownlow Medal winner, started his off-season wearing a moonboot after suffering a broken foot late in the season, and Kelly had surgery on his hips.

Cats captain Joel Selwood said yesterday he expected his midfield teammates to be back in the thick of it within a few weeks.

"Jimmy had a small fracture in his foot towards the end of last year and obviously hasn't done a lot over the break," Selwood said.

"He'll be back. Before Christmas I'm sure you'll see him out there.

"James had his hips done at the end of the year, but we hope to get him back before Christmas also.

"(Travis) Varcoe's up and running behind closed doors and also (Daniel) Menzel's up and running."

Varcoe's season was ruined by a persistent foot injury, while fellow forward Menzel had a second knee reconstruction in June.

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Barlow winged but in top shape

Despite a thumb injury, Fremantle midfielder Michael Barlow says he is in the best physical shape of his life. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: PerthNow

FREMANTLE midfielder Michael Barlow says he's in the best pre-season shape of his career - despite being unable to mark a ball.

Barlow and teammates with less than four years experience returned to the training track this morning, but an off-season thumb operation will keep the 24-year-old from resuming full ball-work for the next two weeks.

The midfielder suffered ligament damage to his right thumb towards the end of last season.

Despite the minor setback, Barlow said he was thrilled to be fit entering the pre-season following a grinding recovery from his broken leg sustained in 2010.

"Personally, I'm in the best position I have been in my time at the footy club," Barlow said.

"I've been pretty unrestricted over the break running-wise and able to get a pretty good fitness base.

"So I'm pretty excited personally, and collectively we had a lot out there today - a few second and third-year boys really pushing their claim from day one."

Joining Barlow on the track this morning was Michael Walters, who chose to resume training a week before he was required to.

Walters was banished to the WAFL at the start of last season due to fitness issues, but returned to play a key role in Fremantle's late-season revival.

But Dylan Roberton was a noteable absentee after his request for a trade home to Victoria was unable to be accommodated.

The remainder of Fremantle's playing group - including speedy recruit Danyle Pearce - will resume training within the next fortnight.

"He's a really quick and skilful player, and an experienced player," Barlow said.

"I think the recruiting team has gone out and identified some places we need to improve, and that might be the speed on the outside. So that's something that Danyle can definitely bring to the group."

Follow Chris Robinson on Twitter: @CJKRobinson

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Demons sign dumped Cat

Richmond's Robin Nahas is tackled by Cat Tom Gillies at Simonds Stadium last April. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE has added to its import army by signing delisted Geelong defender Tom Gillies.

Gillies, 22, was signed to a one-year deal as a delisted free agent before today's 2pm deadline.

All players cut from club lists automatically became delisted free agents and could be recruited by other teams.

The 192cm defender has been training with the Demons.

"As a big bodied, tall defender, Tom fills a need within our playing group," Melbourne list manager Tim Harrington told the club's website.

"Having been part of the AFL system for four years and entering his fifth, we believe Tom has a lot to offer the Melbourne Football Club."

Gillies played 13 games for the Cats but couldn't crack a regular senior berth and his prospects dived when Geelong snapped up Jared Rivers from Melbourne to cover for retired full-back Matthew Scarlett.

The two clubs have swapped several players this post-season, with former Cat Shannon Byrnes now a Demon.

Melbourne dumped a host of underperforming youngsters and has brought in experienced players from other clubs including Chris Dawes, David Rodan and Cam Pederson.
 

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Tigers consider Wood lifeline

Heath Shaw and Cameron Wood at Collingwood training. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

AXED Collingwood ruckman Cameron Wood could be an emergency back-up for Ivan Maric at Richmond next season.

Tigers coach Damien Hardwick has spoken to Wood, delisted by Collingwood after five years at the Magpies.

The Australian reports the 25-year-old will be invited to train with Richmond before the December 11 pre-season and rookie drafts.

He is set to be joined by Orren Stephenson, who was delisted after one season at Geelong.

Either could be picked up as a rookie as back-up in case No.1 ruckman Ivan Maric is injured.

The Tigers are light on in the ruck department, with only Ty Vickery and Tom Derickx to call on after delisting Andrew Browne and trading Angus Graham to Adelaide.

Vickery is preferred as a marking forward and Derickx has played just two senior AFL matches.

See who has been cut at your club

Wood, who started his career at Brisbane where he played 16 games in three seasons after being taken in the first round of the 2004 national draft, played another 48 matches for the Magpies, including six this year.

The AFL has also given permission for delisted Gold Coast defender Josh Toy to train with the Tigers.

Richmond has already signalled its interest in former Melbourne forward Ricky Petterd.
 

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Dons cut Dyson, Prismall

Ricky Dyson has been delisted by Essendon. Picture: Baker Lincoln Source: The Sunday Times

ESSENDON has delisted midfielders Ricky Dyson and Brent Prismall.

With no guarantees on their future, the pair stayed at home as a group of 10 Bombers - the leadership group and key midfielders - welcomed superstar recruit Brendon Goddard to the fold in the US.

Early this afternoon Dyson tweeted: "Thankyou to all my team mates, the @Essendon_FC, it's staff and all its loyal supporters over the past 9 years. Memories I'll never forget."

Pick Me: The next Bombers superstar

Soon after the Bombers confirmed both midfielders had not been offered contracts for next season.

"We would like to sincerely thank both Brent and Ricky for their contribution to the Essendon Football Club," Essendon football manager Danny Corcoran said.

"Ricky has played 114 games for our club and has been a much respected and valued teammate for a long period of time.

"Brent has had a number of frustrating injury setbacks since arriving at Essendon and playing 36 games (61 career total) but through his dedication to training and persistence he has always remained positive and committed to the club.

"It is a difficult time of year but we wish them both every success in the future."

The Bombers also cut youngster Ariel Steinberg despite the fact he has a contract for next season. Essendon has promised to recruit him in the rookie draft.

Essendon has now made 11 list changes in the lead-up to next week's draft.

The next deadline for club list lodgements is Thursday.

Today at 2pm the second free agency deadline expired with only two players having been snapped up.

Former Geelong rookie Jonathan Simpkin was signed by Hawthorn on a two-year deal and Melbourne signed axed Cat Tom Gillies just before the deadline.

Under the second period of free agency every delisted player automatically became an unrestricted free agent, giving them unprecedented freedom to find a new home.

But while the first free agency period prompted a handful of stars to change clubs, the anticipated rush to snap up bargain rookies for nothing has not eventuated.

A long list of players has been overlooked including Carlton's Bret Thornton, Essendon's Sam Lonergan and Kyle Reimers, Gold Coast's Josh Toy, Melbourne's Matthew Bate and Ricky Petterd and Western Bulldog Justin Sherman.

Clubs seem more likely to assess their lists and early picks in the national draft before taking delisted players with a late national draft pick or in the December pre-season or rookie drafts.

Who has been cut at your club

The Western Bulldogs loom as Prismall's best chance of a another tilt.

The Dogs also have an interested in discarded Demon Matthew Bate, meaning it could be a head to head battle between the pair for the final spot on the Dogs' list.

The final decision by the Dogs would not be made until next month's pre-season draft.
 

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Sherman signs at Williamstown

Justin Sherman has left the Dogs but will remain at Williamstown. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

DELISTED Western Bulldog Justin Sherman will retain links to his second AFL club if he is overlooked at next month's pre-season draft after signing at VFL affiliate Williamstown.

The Dogs announced immediately after the trade period Sherman would leave the club despite having a year to run on the contract he signed after leaving the Brisbane Lions at the end of 2010.

The line-breaker played 11 games with the Seagulls this year, including a best-afield three-goal effort to drag Williamstown across the line against arch rival Port Melbourne in the wet.

Pick Me: The Dogs could land the next Trent Cotchin

But Sherman could muster just 10 AFL games at the Dogs under new coach Brendan McCartney this year, the lowest since in his eight years on league lists.

Sherman, 25, did not nominate for next Thursday's draft, meaning his last hope of winning a third AFL lifeline would be in the December pre-season draft.

If he is overlooked he will spend the next two seasons at Williamstown.

The Seagulls and the Dogs will end their alignment at the end of next season, with both clubs set to field stand-alone VFL sides in 2014.

"I'm obviously still hopeful to get another chance at AFL level, but if that doesn't occur I'm excited about playing at Williamstown," Sherman said.

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Old face leads in Power troops

Kane Cornes led in the Power when pre-season training kicked off this morning. Picture: Mark Brake Source: The Advertiser

PORT Adelaide veteran Kane Cornes shows no signs of slowing down.

The 29-year-old - who this year won a club record-equalling fourth club champion award - ran his younger teammates off their legs as the Power returned to pre-season training this morning.

Cornes - looking as fit as ever - won the club's first 3km time trial of the pre-season by a convincing 15 seconds.

He recorded a time of 9 min, 46 secs to outpace second-year defender Cam O'Shea (10:01) and captaincy candidate Brad Ebert (10:19) around the Uni loop track in Adelaide's north parklands.

It was the club's first training session on home soil under new coach Ken Hinkley.

Small forward Cam Hitchcock (10:25), ruckman Matthew Lobbe (10:26), key forward Justin Westhoff (10:27), utility Andrew Moore (10:28) and midfielder Matthew Broadbent (10:32) rounded out Port's top-eight runners.

New recruit Angus Monfries (from Essendon) ran a solid 10:41.

Full back Alipate Carlile - who has battled fitness problems thoughout his career - showed he has some more work to do, finishing near the back of the pack with a time of 11:12.

Second-year defender Nathan Blee brought up the tail, finishing in 11:39 as most of the players looked in good condition.

Midfielder Hamish Hartlett has beefed up noticeably, while in an encouraging sign promising ruckman Lobbe ran like a midfielder.

About 10 senior players, including Robbie Gray, Brent Renouf and Matt Thomas, did not take part in the run as they begin their pre-season campaigns on modfield programs.

Hinkley said he was pleased with the condition of his men and that new fitness coach Darren Burgess would be working on a combination of strength and endurance drills over summer.

"It will be a whole-rounded thing to get them into the best shape we possibly can, push them as hard as we can and hopefully come the start of the season they are in the best shape they can be," he said.

"That's the whole thing, it's not just one, it's not just strength, it's not just running capacity, it's the whole thing to make sure we've got them in the very best shape in all areas."

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Vardy takes Scarlett's jumper

Nathan Vardy will take Matthew Scarlett's No. 30. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

GEELONG has shown their faith in young big man Nathan Vardy by handing the 11-game player the No.30 jumper worn by triple-premiership defender Matthew Scarlett.

The 21-year-old Vardy, who stands 198cm, battled a hip problem in 2012 and played only two senior games.

Scarlett retired after the 2012 season following a 284-game career that included six All-Australian selections and one best and fairest trophy.

Former North Melbourne ruckman Hamish McIntosh will wear the No.17 jumper following Shannon Byrnes' move to Melbourne, while ex-Demon Jared Rivers will take No.25 after Tom Gillies was delisted.

The Cats have given delisted former ruckman Orren Stephenson's No.23 jumper to ex-Gold Coast midfielder Josh Caddy, according to the geelongcats.com.au website.

Rookie-listed big man Josh Walker will take No.34, as worn by his grandfather Peter Walker in the Cats' 1963 premiership side.

The Cats will give numbers 36 and 40 to their two recruits in the November 22 national draft.

Vardy wore No.36 and retired premiership defender David Wojcinski wore No.40.

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Sheedy: Irishman to replace Izzy

Code-hopper Israel Folau left the Giants. Setanta could replace him as a forward. Source: The Daily Telegraph

COACH Kevin Sheedy has earmarked Setanta O'hAilpin to take the place of departed fellow code-hopper Israel Folau in the GWS Giants team.

Irishman O'hAilpin, 29, suffered a season-ending anterior cruciate ligament knee injury in his first senior game with the Giants in 2012 but recently signed a new one-year contract.

With struggling marquee player Folau returning to rugby league, a role has opened for O'hAilpin who played Gaelic Football and hurling before starting his 81-game AFL career at Carlton.

He can play as a forward and ruckman, but also has the capacity to play down back.

"His (O'hAilpin's) passion is brilliant, you can't beat it," said Sheedy on Monday.

He's one of the most passionate people I've met in AFL. He'll be our replacement for Folau."

O'hAilpin was grateful for the chance but admitted some apprehension.

"I've been fortunate to get another opportunity from the Giants, so hopefully I can repay their faith and have a good season," O'hAilpin told AAP.

"It's a big test for me. They say when people come back from an ACL (injury), it's one of their hardest years."

Sheedy felt he could potentially play both O'hAilpin and Adelaide forward-ruckman Kurt Tippett, who remains a Giants' target.

And he said his many youngsters were about to experience real pressure for the first time in the club's second season of AFL.

"We'll come out of this draft in two weeks with seven players and five of them are going to be in the first 14 picks, so the pressure will be on for selection for the first time," Sheedy said.

He didn't expect GWS to suffer another run of hidings like they did in the middle of the 2012 campaign, but wanted them to significantly reduce their losing margins.

"We'll be extremely competitive and if you did win four games or more, that would be fantastic," Sheedy said.

Meanwhile, Sheedy is looking to extend his time at the fledgling AFL club with a possible director of football role after handing the head coaching reins to Leon Cameron following his second season in charge of the Giants in 2013.

"After I stop coaching, probably I'll be a director of football, in charge of footy basically in certain roles," Sheedy said on Monday.

GWS chief executive David Matthews confirmed the club was planning to discuss a role of that type with Sheedy.

"I'd like to see him linked with the Giants and involved with the Giants for forever and a day, because he's been one of the architects and one of the builders," Matthews said.

"He's just such a positive force, not just around our club, but around Greater Western Sydney generally.

"He's got so much to contribute in football and other areas too so we'll work out something that hopefully satisfies his desire to keep building things beyond 2013."

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Goddard talks up Bombers

New Don Brendon Goddard likes his Windy Hill home. George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

BOOM Essendon recruit Brendon Goddard has highlighted their talent as a major reason why he switched AFL clubs.

The 27-year-old was the biggest name in the league's trade period last month, using the new free agency provision to leave St Kilda after 205 games.

Saints coach Scott Watters said at the time that the two-time All-Australian made a decision outside their team-first structure and added it was about money.

But the utility told the Essendon website he saw a lot of upside in the Essendon list.

The Bombers plummeted out of the top eight in the second half of this season to finish 11th.

Pick Me: The next Bombers superstar
 

"I see the talent within the group and where they could go - that's obviously something that did appeal," he said.

"Obviously staying in Melbourne was one thing as well.

"Just the club ... what I can offer the footy club as a footballer and what the footy club can offer me as a person, summing up all that up, I thought Essendon was a really good choice."

It is the first time Goddard has spoken publicly since his high-profile move.

He is in Boulder, Colorado with several of his new team-mates for high-altitude training.

Another factor that enticed Goddard to Essendon is the certainty that he will spend more time in the midfield.

Goddard had more of a utility role at the Saints.

The Bombers badly need more midfield support for captain and Brownlow Medallist Jobe Watson.

"That was something obviously that stood out and was appealing," Goddard said.

"I'd like to play more in the midfield permanently, as an inside 'mid'."

But Goddard stressed that he alone will not be responsible for the Bombers returning to the top eight - it will take the whole team's development.

"By no means am I here to be the saviour," he said.

Goddard said he is also prepared to have a greater leadership role at Essendon.

"I always look forward to that with open arms," he said.

"I don't have trouble with giving feedback and stuff like that.

"I can be quite narky at times, as a lot of people might know.

"At the end of the day, it's all about trying to get better."

He added defence was one area where the Bombers had room for improvement.

Ross Lyon, Watters' predecessor at St Kilda, made defence the focus for Goddard and his old team-mates when they nearly won the premiership in 2009-10.

"All guys get drafted because of their potential with the footy," Goddard said.

"The defensive side of the game is all about your attitude and about training ... and then obviously implementing it in a game.

"With this group, the biggest upside is the defensive side of the game.

"A lot of games are decided by two or three kicks and if you can kick two-five more goals just through turnovers in defence, it's going to go a long way to winning more games and playing in finals."

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Brown can be a force, says Priddis

BRIGHT FUTURE: West Coast defender Mitch Brown is an important part of the club's defensive depth, says Matt Priddis. Source: Getty Images

WEST Coast midfielder Matt Priddis has thrown a challenge to teammate Mitch Brown, refusing to believe the defender is fourth-fiddle in a strong Eagles backline.

Brown has a year to run on his contract, but went through a tumultuous trade period after declaring his desire to join St Kilda due to a lack of playing opportunity in the west.

The 23-year-old, who recently got engaged to partner and West Coast Fever netballer Shae Bolton, sits behind skipper Darren Glass, the club's Player of the Finals Eric Mackenzie and Will Schofield in the key position stakes.

But Priddis said Brown was more than capable of leapfrogging his way into the best 22.

"Obviously, he's got his family and friends in Melbourne, but he's been at West Coast since he was 17," Priddis said.

"The opportunity for him is there and I'm a big believer that, if he gets a full pre-season into him with no injuries, then he's as good an athlete as we've got.

"He could force his way into the side on form and that should be his absolute focus; to make sure he has the best pre-season possible and puts his hat in the ring to be in the starting 18.

"He's definitely capable of doing that and it's great we've been able to keep him, he's a good guy to have around the club and he'll be a good guy to fill Darren's shoes once he does decide to retire."

Brown's request to head east came amidst an active trade period for West Coast as the club moved away from its recent development mindset of utilising higher picks, instead bringing in the WA trio of Collingwood's Sharrod Wellingham, Melbourne midfielder Cale Morton and small Saints utility Jamie Cripps.

Premiership on-baller Daniel Kerr said the personnel focus reminded him of the build-up to the Eagles' 2006 flag, when the club brought in the hard bodies of Hawthorn's Daniel Chick and Adelaide's Tyson Stenglein.

"We seem to have a squad capable of making the four, we just need a couple of additions, a couple of tweaks and a little bit of a better run of good luck with injuries and I think we'll be a force," Kerr said.

"Morton has a lot of talent, he was an extremely high draft pick and you don't lose that talent overnight, so hopefully he can come home to WA and break into the side. Wellingham's a proven performer and he can only bring strength to our side."

Priddis and Kerr are supporting the Sunshine Beach Run, dedicated to anyone touched by the death of a child, with aims to raise funds for research into SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and SUDC (Sudden Unexpected Death of a Child), while providing grief counselling for those affected by the loss.

The second instalment of the run will be held on Sunday, February 10, with distances ranging from a 1km run/walk to a 5km run/walk.

Go to www.sunshinebeachrun.com.au

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Power may re-draft Jacobs

Ben Jacobs will for the draft, where the Power will have the option to re-draft him. Picture: Simon Cross. Source: adelaidenow

PORT Adelaide will consider re-drafting Ben Jacobs, despite the defender quitting the AFL club and nominating for this month's national draft.

Victoria-born Jacobs on Friday told Port he will nominate for the November 22 draft, hoping to be picked up by a Melbourne club.

But Port say they could re-draft the 20-year-old.

Port and North Melbourne failed to strike a deal for Jacobs during last month's AFL trade period.

The Kangaroos offered draft pick 38, which the Power refused.

"We were not prepared to let Ben go for a pick that was below his value," Port's football general manager Peter Rohde said on Friday.

"Had North Melbourne been willing to negotiate over their first round No.15 pick, we would have been able to come to an arrangement, but they were adamant that wasn't on the table.

"Port Adelaide wanted to do the right thing by Ben but we make no apology for protecting the club's interest and not allowing it to be cornered."

Port used pick 16 at the 2010 draft to recruit Jacobs.

Rohde said he tried to convince Jacobs to stay at Port, where he played 26 AFL games.

"Everyone can see by the opportunities Ben was given here that we rate him highly," Rohde said.

"It certainly wasn't a case of Ben being unhappy at Port Adelaide but in the end it was more about a calling to be back in Victoria with his family and friends, and where he sees his future."

Rohde said Port would consider selecting Jacobs again at the draft later this month.

"We might lose Ben and if we do we hope it works out very well for him, but it won't always work that way for a player and we have stood firm as a club to make our position clear to everyone," he said.

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Crows missed a shot at Clark

Melbourne ruckman Mitch Clark talks with coach Mark Neeld. Picture: Quinn Rooney. Source: Getty Images

ADELAIDE could have had Mitch Clark in a straight swap deal for Kurt Tippett last year if the Crows had put the right offer to him.

The former Brisbane forward, below, shocked the AFL by signing with Melbourne, after strongly indicating he would only consider offers from his home state of WA.

Clark's manager Colin Young yesterday revealed the 198cm spearhead would have been open to a move to the Crows, which in hindsight may have been Adelaide's best replacement option for wantaway forward Tippett.

"Adelaide never came up, never ever came up," Young said.

"Mitch would have gone. There's no problems with Adelaide, they're a great club. You wouldn't mind any player going there ...

"In the end Melbourne's presentation was too good to refuse (but) the Crows could have matched the offer." At the time Brisbane was strongly pursuing Tippett, but only offering the Crows pick No. 8 in the draft and a later pick.

The Lions didn't offer Clark and the Crows didn't inquire about him because of the perception he was determined to move to Fremantle.

"Mitch Clark was going to Freo," Crows list manager David Noble said.

"All the discussion through that initial period of time with (Brisbane national talent manager Rob Kerr) was that was absolutely where he was going to go."

Whether the Crows would have been better off with Clark, particularly given what they stand to get for Tippett now, is a question all Adelaide supporters will be asking themselves.

Clark kicked 29 goals in 11 games before suffering a season-ending foot injury against GWS in Round 13. Tippett kicked 39 goals in 21 games but was hampered by a string of concussions.

Noble said it was "an interesting debate".

"I think if you went back and had a look at Tippett's year versus Clark's year, who is front?" he said.

"If you go back and have a look at the way Kurt pulled himself together in that last final, it was outstanding."

Noble said Clark wasn't on the club's radar at the time because they were banking on keeping Tippett at the club.

He said it would have been difficult to pull a last-minute trade for Clark because the club hadn't gone down the path of monitoring his form, investigating his character and all the other processes it goes through before pursuing a player.

"At no point did we have Kurt Tippett on the table last year to be traded. He was a required and a contracted player," Noble said.

"Our clear directive from a club perspective - with a new coach coming in - was that we wanted to back ourselves in to keep him."

At the time, Noble was also confident that the continued development of Josh Jenkins, Shaun McKernan and Lewis Johnston would leave the club in a good position to cover Tippett, if he left a year later.

"We still felt we had enough in the group we were going to develop underneath to step into that breach," he said.

In retrospect, Noble appears comfortable with the club's decision to take it's chances with Tippett, despite having lost him without compensation.

"I'm not a big one for looking in the rear vision mirror - we've made the call," he said.

"We played in finals and we were five points short of playing in a Grand Final... quite often it's easier in hindsight.

"Having also coached in the forward line, I know that quite often Kurt would take the number one (defender) so Taylor Walker than has a slight change in his defensive player who might play on him.

"Kurt's reliability in his competitiveness has been something that has helped out our small blokes on the deck as well."

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Suns to continue US adventure

Guy McKenna says the Suns derive great benefit from an annual pre-season trip to Flagstaff. Picture: David Clark

SUNS coach Guy McKenna says training in Arizona is almost certain to become a regular fixture in the Suns' pre-season plans each year.

A big advocate of training at high altitude, McKenna said he could find little reason why the club would deviate from their current pre-season trip to Flagstaff in the near future.

"There is plenty of evidence out there that suggests (Flagstaff) is clearly one of the best venues to go to for a sporting camp," McKenna said.

"It ticks a lot of the boxes and as far as the town itself is concerned there isn't a lot of distractions for the blokes.

"That's what you want and you want the blokes to be focussing on training hard for two weeks."

McKenna said the only reason to change destination would be if the players became stale.

"In five or six years of us coming here, David Swallow or Dion Prestia and those boys who have been here for a while may need a change," he said.

"I'm sure we will accommodate them but I reckon we will always come back to Flagstaff."

Apart from the physical gains of training at high altitude, McKenna said the benefits from travelling overseas were endless.

"I was speaking to a few of the corporates who had been on the camp the previous year as well and they commented on how close the group was this year," McKenna said.

"It's amazing the transformation in 12 months and its really encouraging going into next season.

"The more times we can be isolated and learn to get on with each other and understand each others' mental and physical capabilities, then the better we will be.

"Clearly that is what we have seen."

The Suns return home on Wednesday.

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