Every now and again a young player emerges through the ranks that catches your eye and you think this kid has something special. In my time at Mines Rovers I have seen a lot of talented young footballers come and go with some reaching the dizzy heights of the AFL and others drifting off to the unknown. In my first years as a player with the Diorites and coach of u/12’s way back in the early 80’s a couple of boys by the name’s of Tony Shaw and Mark Zeptner were outstanding players with Mark matching it with a young Dean Kemp and Tony Shaw going onto State Schoolboy’s footy. In the u/16’s at the same period coach Trevor Tasker had a young centre half forward in Dean Irving kicking goals from outside 50. Dean went on to represent South Fremantle, Melbourne and West Coast In the mid to late 90’s Trevor had another youngster by the name of Eddie Betts carving up the opposition and kicking goals from you know where. Over the last decade we have also watched Luke Toia and Jaymie Graham proceed through the ranks of the Mighty Diorites and onto the AFL. Having been down to watch a few of the Diorites games of late one young player by the name of Josh Hunt has caught my eye, not by being the best on ground but little things that a sixteen year old might not be expected to do in senior company, such as backing into packs to take an overhead mark and just focusing on a contest with eyes only for the ball. So impressed by this young boy that Stephen Wells, recruiting guru for the Geelong Football club will be getting a phone call to keep an eye on Josh as he progresses with the Mines Rovers football club.
Jim McIntosh

G'day to another footy wrap up and the reserves kicked us off to a good start with the new fixturing format for this round. It must have done wonders for the boys as they maintained the lead for the whole game to eventually win by 76 points. The team needs to stick together and get behind Rob Zecca as a win against the bottom side Railways this week will keep them in touch with the top two.
As for the colts they were again right in the match even late into the last quarter. We can't fault the endeavour from the boys, they are really having a crack under Hainesy and that's the pleasing part. So we hope that first win isn't to far away.
From the league point of view the derby was probably, from a team perspective our best performance for the year. We had good contributors across the board but a special mention to Josh Hunt, Kieran Giblett, Travis Hart, Ben Basely and Jamie Bolt. These younger guys are starting to find their feet and understand their importance to the team and are playing excellent football. We are sitting nicely at the top of the table with a couple of games break but we still have to work on our game because there are a lot of areas we need to improve in.
We venture to the (home of football SRM) for the first time this year and it would be nice to have all three grades come away with a win against the Panthers. Enough has been said about the ground and we copped a lot of flack so this is our chance to stick it up the GFL, the press and everybody else who has labelled us as soft and arrogant so it is in our best interests to put the issue to rest.
Finally it was great to see our past player and current AFL player Jaymie Graham back at the Diorites on the weekend. It was great to catch up with the big fellow and he sounded happy to be back. His timing to watch the Diorites was spot on as his little brother Mitch has hit a purple patch at present. He would've been pleased with the result being a derby and all.
Cheers Rob

G'day and welcome to the captains view for another week and what a big week it has been for the Blue and Whites. First of all let me say what a fantastic effort to everybody involved with helping out the club on the weekend in regards to the WAFL match on Saturday. Especially to the canteen ladies, bar staff and committee and many volunteers. Not only did they work on the Saturday but they were there for our colts game on Friday, all day Saturday and buttered up for the reserves and league fixture on Sunday. In regards to our colts I went down and assisted Nobby who stood in for coach of the boys in the absence of Hainsey. I must say the colts players are coming along nicely even though the result wouldn’t suggest that. The last time the boys played Kambalda they were beaten comprehensively but on Friday night they were right in it at three quarter time. The boys work rate was still there in the last quarter but skill errors and fitness probably let them down in the end, which they are aware of and I’m sure they will work on that area. Special mention to Kayden Evans Walters, being the youngest player and showing the way with a great game on a wing. The reserves had their chances of a win with a pretty handy side but it goes to show that you still have to work hard and they went down by 1 point. With the competitive of places in the league side due to great numbers this year the reserves are going to be reasonably strong but you have to work hard as a team. The league boys had a frustrating game and were well held by Kambalda but it was only a matter of time before we got going . I think the crucial thing for us was our easy turnovers and once we started to be clean with the ball we started to get up and running. Our defense was excellent and special mention to Mitch, Nobby and Boof for leading the back six. We haven’t really put a good four quarter game together yet and with the cattle we have I hope it’s not to far away. It would be nice to do this week against Boulder. Just to finish off I’m letting you know I’m not talking AFL anymore. Cheers Rob.

With the AFL having a bye this Saturday due the Victoria vs Dream Team game at the MCG most AFL based players will head back to their grass roots club’s for the week-end. The Diorites will welcome back their big guy Jaymie Graham from West Coast for the Mines V Boulder game at Digger Daws oval on Sunday. Kid’s, this will be a great opportunity to bring the camera down, meet Jaymie and have that photo taken with the local champ and of course yell and scream for the Diorites.

Putting the past two weeks of unsettling controversy behind them, Mines Rovers replied in the best fashion that good sides do, by answering all challenges the rejuvenated Kambalda Eagles could throw at them with a 29 point win. The Diorites however did not have it all their own way, with the Eagles actually holding a two point lead at the main break after a first half of missed opportunities where both sides were finding it hard to penetrate inside the forward fifty. The Diorites were well served in the first half by full back Mitch Graham, veteran Brett Turner and new recruit Dave Hansford beside him who between them turned back many Kambalda forward entries. Cameron Allen was providing plenty of run through the middle in his first game back since injury and was well supported by youngster Travis Hart who was electrifying from the wing.
At the half time break coach Graeme Borchett gave his charges a real old fashion blast and questioned the commitment of his players, with which they responded with a match winning third quarter six goals. It was this period of the game that the Diorites senior players stood up with Captain Robert Hansen (4 goals) everywhere up forward, Mat James providing plenty of marking options along with Leigh Mourish and the midfield of Moon, Willis, Langridge and Allen getting on top. In the final stanza it was the Nathan Mourish who stood up across half back and along with promising youngster Josh Hunt were outstanding repelling the Eagles time after time.
This win was worth more than the four points as mentioned in the opening, as the Diorites have copped plenty from all quarters over their decision to put the welfare of their players first, and from the President down should be commended about how the put it all behind them to hold of the new challenges to their crown.
In the other games the Colts were good for three quarters on Friday night but were over run in the last to go down by 60 points and the reserves staged a late come back and actually hit the lead in the last few minutes before going down by a point in the dying seconds.

With all the hype surrounding the return of Chris Judd to Perth for the first time since he departed the Eagles, Diorite people will be tuned in to see the form of two of it's former young guns in Eddie Betts and Jaymie Graham (pictured) go head to head. Eddie has had his best start to a season for Carlton and is in outstanding form while Jaymie is returning after a injury plagued start to 2008 and returns to the injury riddled Eagles line up at centre half back.

G’day all and welcome to the Captain’s view again. It has been a big weekend for those of us who travelled to the Dockers vs Cats game at Subiaco Oval. It was a bloody good weekend, apart from the result and the fact Dewar and I were kicked out of the ground at three quarter time for barracking too aggressively. I guess people didn’t like our view of the game! We got our redemption though, as our contacts were able to get us into the Dockers’ change rooms after the game. Johno had a different outlook to the rest of us, him being a Cats man from Bell Park and great mates of Jimmy Bartel, who had supplied us with the tickets.
It was a bit of a surprise when I got home and looked up the Diorites’ website to find that my first Captain’s view had to be deleted. This was requested by the G.F.L as my views in relation to the Oval were regarded as too aggressive. Great to see that the GFL actually read our website. Hopefully the ground issue is dead and buried and put to ground.
Just to finish off we have a fantastic challenge with Kambalda this week, which will keep coming hard at us. I’ve said all along they were going to upset a few sides this year. The Coach is an uncle of mine and he is an old school type coach who will get the best out of his players and after watching us throughout the first round, will attack us with a bit more knowledge. Five of our senior boys are in doubt with niggling injuries and will undergo fitness tests later in the week. This is a good opportunity for the young blokes to step up. The rest of the boys are champing at the bit and feel refreshed and can’t wait for Sunday to arrive. Good luck to Hainsy and the boys in Colts also to the Reserves and let’s try and get three wins for the day. This is a “top of the table” clash so hopefully all our supporters get to the game and cheer the boys on. Robert Hansen

GOLDFIELDS FOOTBALL LEAGUE

GREAT SOUTHERN CARNIVAL

COLTS SQUAD 2008

To be played at Lake Grace.

Training Squad


Mines Kambalda Kalgoorlie

J Hunt D Titchener N Hay B Hay
J Gust T Fitzgerald M Cullen S Wilson
L Gust S Simpson T Andrews Z Richmond
K Giblett N Botting K Viskovich
A Polak N Champion L Boath
T Mc Aullife

Boulder Railways

S Worthington J Giles
L Roos D Harring
S Waddington M Lemm
M Smythe J Brown
J Gradile R Booy
M Blackman T Kirkland
N Papertalk C Edward
B George C Rymer

Training Dates

Mondays 5/5/08 Morrison Oval Start Time 6.30 pm
12/5/08 DDO
19/5/08 Morrison Oval
26/5/08 DDO
2/6/08 Morrison Oval
9/6/08 DDO

Team Selection/ Presentation at GFL House, 12/6/08 at 6.30pm.
Contacts
Barry Gresham Lance Titchener Alan Moyle
Colts Coach Assistant Coach Team Manager
0427 999 365 0448 808 858 0427 196 515
Congratulations on being selected in the training squad for this years Great Southern Carnival, if you are unavailable please let us know asap so we can organise a potential replacement. To be eligible to play in this carnival you need
to be 19 yrs old or less during 2008 calendar year.

The total cost for the trip is $50, and is payable prior to leaving to our team manager Mr Alan Moyle.
The Carnival gets under way on the 13th June, with the Bus departing SRMO at 12 noon, and arrives at Lake Grace at around 5pm.

You will need to bring spending money, 2 pairs of white and black shorts; as we have 2 games on the Saturday and 1 game on the Sunday. A swag/sleeping bag warm clothing, also double check your footy bag.

To be given the opportunity to represent your club and Region is a great honour, so attitude and commitment to give your team the best opportunity for success is required by all squad members.

Please communicate to your parents, clubs, coaches and workplaces to make arrangements to train and schedule your time to make the trip.

The squad training is essential to get to know one another and establish a strong team to take on all comers at the carnival., if your cannot make training it is your responsibility to make contact .

I look forward to working with you all to achieve greatness at this years Great Southern Carnival.

Barry Gresham
GFL Colts Coach.

Mines Rovers forfeited Sunday's Goldfields Football League fixtures against Kalgoorlie, citing concern with the condition of the Sir Richard Moore Sports Centre surface.

Kalgoorlie players in colts, reserves and league were required to run out in full gear to claim the premiership points.
Mines Rovers . com has no further information on the outcome but will report them as it unfolds.
A new weekly coloumn will begin soon called "The Captains View"

Mines uncertain if Turner fit to play

15th April 2008, 11:45 WST








Mines Rovers' Brett Turner will have a troublesome hamstring assessed this week as he strives to be fit for the Diorites' upcoming clash with Kalgoorlie in Goldfields league football.

The evergreen veteran, the GFL's games record holder, was restricted to just over a quarter of action in the Blue and Whites' tense victory over Railways on Saturday night.

“He pulled up a bit tight and at his age we didn't want to risk him,” Mines Rovers coach Graeme Borchet said.

“The indication from him was that he has a tendency to pull up a bit stiff in the night games. We'll see how he goes through the week but if he is no good, I daresay we will go with someone else.”

It was the only significant injury concern in the camp of the Diorites, who came from behind to win by two points.

“They (Railways) were good and threw it up to us,” Borchet said. “To be honest, and I'm not making excuses, but we were pretty flat and that probably had a bit to do with the previous weekend (against Boulder).

“We went hard in that game (the previous weekend) and were then flat all week on the training track.

“It was a real ordinary week and I knew on Thursday night we might be in for a bit of a battle.”

One of the Diorites' most experienced players in Ritchie Bourne was prominent in the reserves at the weekend, although Borchet was not yet looking to recall him to the seniors.

“Ritchie is probably not far off, although it was his first game of the year and he's had a few interruptions with work and trips away with his own kids' sport,” Borchet said.

“He'll come in at some stage, but probably not until the next round.”

Diorites come from behind for victory

14th April 2008, 10:15 WST




Railways fell just two points short of causing the upset of the Goldfields Football League season so far in a thriller against reigning premiers Mines Rovers at Digger Daws Oval on Saturday night.

In a heated clash marred by controversy late in the game, the Diorites trailed at every change but clawed their way back for their third successive win of 2008, 12.12 (84) to 12.10 (82).

It represented the Blue and White's ninth consecutive victory dating back to round 14 last season, including their 68-point grand final triumph over Railways.

In a frenetic final term, Railways led with four minutes remaining before a snap from Diorite Leigh Mourish levelled the scores.

A rushed behind and off-target set shot from Travis Hart gave Mines a two-point buffer.

Railways' last hurrah came with 30 seconds on the clock with their final forward thrust. Panther Rowland Morrison was gathering possession just outside his team's 50m arc when a controversial boundary line call was made from more than 50 metres away.

It spelled the death knell for Railways as the Diorites hung on for a dramatic victory.

Diorite Russell Walton starred with five goals, including four before half-time. The left-footer produced one of the highlights of the match with a brilliant snap from 50m which sailed through the goals in the third quarter.

Captain Rob Hansen - after a stunning nine-goal haul against Boulder a week earlier - was relatively well held except for a brilliant burst in the third term when he kicked two goals in quick succession.

Railways were gallant in defeat without spearhead Michael Towns (unavailable), ruckman Grant Smith (unavailable), midfielder Carl Armstrong (knee) and defender Corey Jones, who limped off with a hamstring strain in the first term.

The Panthers stormed to a 19-point lead at quarter-time after piling on five goals to two.

However, the premiers responded with five goals to three in the second quarter to trail by eight points at the main break.

Reigning Mitchell Medallist James Langley was also struggling with illness and vomited on the field during the second term. The high-leaping ruckman still played out the game in the forward line, with Morrison pinch-hitting in his absence.

The Diorites did most of the attacking after the resumption, but Railways skipper David Stubbs' second goal on the three-quarter time siren gave Railways a three-point advantage.

The loss represented Railways' seventh consecutive defeat at the hands of Mines dating back to round 18, 2006.

The Panthers are now 0-2 after successive losses by two points and seven points (against Kalgoorlie on April 5) and they face a difficult trip to Kambalda next Saturday.

It was only the second time in Conan Wheatcroft's three seasons at the helm that Railways have lost back-to-back games - the last time was round 16 and 17 of 2006 after which they won four straight en route to the premiership.

There were positives for Railways, however, in the form of utility David Marinovich, who was superb on debut with two goals and several strong pack marks.

Panthers' defender-turned-forward Christian Robinson enjoyed a new lease on life in attack, providing the missing link as a marking target and kicking four goals.

Railways vice captain Rhett Foster's attack on the ball was ferocious at times and set the tone for his team-mates.

The Diorites were equally as desperate with the likes of livewire Steve Dewar, Walton, Mark McQueen, Jamie Bolt and Clayton Scott, after earning a recall, among the best players.

There were no reports filed with the GFL yesterday. However, GFL umpires' manager Colin Grove was set to review the game yesterday, including an incident involving Railways life member Billy Quirk after the final siren when he confronted the umpires as they walked off the ground.

In other results, Kambalda upset Boulder by 10 points, winning 14.18 (102) to 13.14 (92).

JARROD LUCAS
Kalgoorlie Miner

In a classic derby at Digger Daws yesterday the Diorites held their nerve and hung on to run out winners by four points. They were led brilliantly by their captain Robbie Hansen who kicked a personal best against the Tigers with nine goals in a superb display rotating between the forward line and midfield. The game started as predicted at a furious pace with the Tigers taking an early lead in the first quarter against a slight breeze, however Mark McQueen began giving the likes of Trent Moon and Nick Willis first use of the ball from the middle which set up a handy four goal lead at the first change. The Diorites started the second quarter in the same fashion with Hansen and Leigh Mourish causing great concern for the Boulder defence adding quick goals while at the other end Mitch Graham had Chris Maguire’s measure with Nathan Mourish holding his own against Dion Woods. However it was not to be all the Diorites way with the Tigers coming back in the second half of the quarter with late goals to keep the margin at four goals at the major break. Mines lost Cameron Allen in this quarter with a serious knock to the head, and his run was having a big influence around the ground which the Diorites could ill afford to lose in such a tight contest. The second half was as gruelling affair as the first with both sides trading goals but it was the Diorites with three last quarter goals holding off the Tigers who were storming home with six of their own, falling one short when the final siren sounded.
In the end it was the experience of Mines who had good service across all lines and held on for a great win in what will be the first of many great clashes between these two sides this season.
In defence, Steve Dewar, in his first game was as solid as usual and along with the record breaking Brett Turner provided great assistance to Graham and Nathan Mourish. The midfield will continue to improve as new recruits in Justin Langridge and Nick Willis combine with the likes of McQueen, Moon, Hansen and Walton.
In attack the small forwards will need to put more pressure on opposition sides to hold the ball in their zone and give greater assistance too Hansen and Leigh Mourish.
Overall, Coach Graeme Borchett would have been pleased with the four points as with the Tigers he knows there is improvement in his side and will welcome the likes of Chris Brabazon, Matt Fink and the very quick veteran Ritchie Bourne in the coming weeks.

Sunday’s game against the highly rated Tigers, who have recruited extensively over the summer months, will be a real guide to were the Diorites are at in the early stages of the season in their quest for back to back flags. Coach Graeme Borchett will be eager to have a first hand look at some of the highly rated Boulder players especially ex AFL players in Dion Woods, Marty McGrath and the talented Chris Maguire who kicked seven majors in his first outing for his new club. The Diorites will welcome back Russell Walton (work), Steve Dewar (suspension) and Trent Moon (state country side) for the clash but Mat Fink, Chris Brabazon and Wade Alexander are still a week away from playing. Borchett would have been pleased with the first up games of his own talented recruits against Kambalda last week in Justin Langridge and Cameron Allen who gave the Diorites added pace around the ground. Veterans Nathan Mourish(PICTURED) and recruit of the 90’s and still going strong Brett Turner, both put in strong performances in their first up games. Turner, who must rate as the best ever recruit to the club with B&F’s and Grand Finals in his collection will break the long standing games record of 237 games held by Alan Forrest from the 1930’s era and ironical it will be against the Tigers from were he was recruited from way back in season 1991.

The Mines Rovers Football Clubs annual major raffle $7000 cash prize is out on the streets for sale. It will be drawn on Friday 30th May so all members, supporters and diehards should get behind the club and buy a ticket, or if you can, sell a few. Tickets are available from the footy club or contact Gavin Kennedy on 0418 934 922 for your ticket. This is the big raffle that keeps our club up and running and your support is much appreciated.

Mines had to work hard against Eagles

31st March 2008, 10:45 WST



Recruit Justin Langridge gave an early indication that his decision to join Mines Rovers this season will be highly beneficial for both parties, based on a strong first-up performance against Kambalda in Saturday’s Goldfields league football season-opener.

The former Kalgoorlie midfielder displayed a strong appetite for hard work and booted three goals, all at crucial stages, which enabled the Diorites to overcome numerous anxious moments in eventually grinding out a 17-point victory, 12.12 (84) to 9.13 (67).

However, the final scoreline was deceiving and the match itself was generally more about the obvious improvement of Kambalda under new coach Stan Ward against the defending premiers who might have been put away by quarter-time – if not for wayward disposal.

As significant under-dogs and with nothing to lose, Kambalda came out with all guns blazing and utterly dominated general play in the opening term – a point underlined by the Eagles’ 12 scoring shots to their opponents three to quarter-time.

However, Kambalda had only a wasteful 4.8 to show for their efforts at the initial break.

It was a weakness of their game which would ultimately come back to the haunt the club in its bid to post a first-up win in its 40th anniversary season, with Mines Rovers storming back with four second-quarter goals.

On the flipside, the Eagles managed just two behinds which sent the respective teams into the rooms at half-time with the scores dead-locked.

The sides kicked three goals apiece in the all-important third term, although Mines Rovers – along similar lines to their opposition in the first quarter – made a meal of their chances up forward in adding 3.7.

With a marked increase in the game’s tempo, Kambalda lost their way somewhat during the last few minutes of the third term – a factor which enabled Mines Rovers to take the lead for the first occasion all night moments before the three-quarter-time siren after Nathan Mourish kicked truly.

The Diorites’ advantage was five points, but it quickly evaporated after Kambalda’s Patrick Lloyd swooped on a loose ball at half-forward and also kicked accurately in the opening seconds of the last term.

It set up an absorbing final 20 minutes, with the Eagles’ Lincoln Rodney adding to the drama of the moment when his set shot hit the very top of the post.

At the other end of the ground, the Diorites’ Darrah Doutch finally steered through his first major after a series of misses – a conversion which put the Blue and Whites back in front.

Cameron Allen, through sheer hard running, followed with two goals of his own for Mines Rovers and although Kambalda did hit back with a conversion through Tyrone Ward, the Diorites clinched the deal with Marc Johnstone’s major inside the final minute.

Despite the loss, Kambalda were gallant performers and unearthed a potential star in forward James Murray, who booted three goals.

It could easily have been six, but his first three shots all missed the mark.

In his address to his players on the field after the game, Stan Ward was looking on the bright side.
“There are always positives,” he said.

“You can all hold your heads high because they are the defending premiers.”

NEALE HARVEY

Saturday Night's game against Kambalda will see Brett Turner equal the games record (237) for league matches played for Mines Rovers when he joins the late Alan Forrest. Last season Brett recorded the most games played in the GFL which include games at Mines, Boulder's and GFL games.

As the Diorites journey to Kambalda to take on the Eagles this Saturday night, will the thought’s be that they are about to play a champion team or a team of champion’s? If they have checked out the GFL’s clearances I think it will be the latter. In the past few weeks Kambalda have lodged clearances for Boyden, Charlie, Darren, Neil, (Mines) Tim,(Boulder) George,(South Aust) who will join Bruce and Jimmy Champion, past Diorites which will make it eight Champion’s in the one team. However the Diorites are yet to clear all players, especially Neil, last years F&B in the colts and are hopeful he will remain at the club. If they all line up in the Reserves or League side it will better the six Kennedy brothers who played League in the same team for the Diorites in 1967 with the seventh brother Snowy playing colts. Also joining the Champion’s is Diorites longest ever player, in years, I think in Robbie Walley. Robbie will turn 50 at the end of the year and I can recall coaching him at Mines in the reserves in 1982. It would be an interesting exercise to find out exactly how many times Robbie has pulled on the Blue and White over the past three or four decades and for someone who has given our club great service the least we can do is wish him well.
Jim McIntosh.

Mines Rovers Junior training has commenced for the 2008 season - details are as follows. All teams will be training at Cruikshanks until May 6th and will then resume at Digger Daws Oval. Under 12's, 14's & 16's have vacanies within the team so if you know of any little diorites that wish to play please give us a call. The first game is the 26th of April

Under 10's - Thursday 4pm - Coach Jeff Turner - 0418 951780

Under 12's - Tues & Thurs 4.30pm - 5.30pm - Coach Travis Wood - 0409 888 429

Under 14's - Tues & Thurs 4.30pm - 5.30pm - Coach Russell Walton - 0419 192 840

Under 16's - Tues & Thurs 5pm - 6pm - Coach Andrew Zafer - 0438 918 906

All other details please contact Jeff Turner - 0418 951780 or Nardia Turner 0418 916528

The 2008 season gets underway for the Diorites under lights at Kambalda on Saturday which will see the premiers up against the Eagles who finished at the bottom of the table in 07 and have struggled over the past few seasons. The Diorites have lost several players from their Grand Final team, most notable Cody Alexander (Subiaco) and Jolan Fleay (West Coast amateurs). The Diorites have covered those losses with new recruits in Cameron Allen, returning from a stint with Subiaco, Nick Willis from West Whyalla in South Australia and Justin Langridge from Kangas who was in their best five players in 07 and will be a valuable asset for the Blue and Whites in their quest for back to back premierships. The Diorites have had a very good pre-season with good numbers and will once again have strength all over the ground. Mark McQueen, coming off a great season last year will once again have the likes of Brett Pattison and Mitch Graham to form a strong defence. In the middle the Diorites have an abundance of talent to rotate throughout a game with the likes of Captain Robbie Hansen, Trent Moon, Russell Walton, Steve Dewar, Cameron Allen, Wade Alexander, Chris Brabazon and Jaymie Bolt. Up forward Leigh Mourish, who had his best season for the club will be hoping to continue in that form and along with his brother Nathan, Marc Johnstone, and Mat James will cause plenty of worries for opposition sides. The Diorites will be looking for improvement in young players that were given opportunities to last year in Josh Hunt, Keiron Giblett and Joel Gust to force their way into a regular league spot. The round 1 team will be announced after training tomorrow night and the club is looking for a good turnout at the clubrooms to kick off the season. One player the Diorites will be missing for the Kambalda clash is dual Osmetti medallist Russell Walton who will be attending a family wedding, but he will be at the clubrooms after training to celebrate his birthday!!!
(pictured is birthday boy Russell Walton)

The annual mouthguard clinic is on this week-end at GFL house, 1 Wittenoom St Kalgoorlie. The times are Friday 14th 4pm - 5.30pm, Saturday 15th 9am - 4pm and Sunday 16th 9am - 11am. These are custom fitted mouthguards and the costs are - single colour $85 or AFL $95. The contact is Stephen Miller 0438 703 797.

Goldfields Junior Football League Registration is this Sunday at GFL House at Sir Richard Moore from 10am-12pm. All past junior players need to get down there to register or contact Jeff Turner on 0418 951780. If you know of any future little Diorites make sure you contact Jeff or get down to GFL house to see your sons in the blue & white this season. There will be 5 grades this season 9's, 10's under 12's Under 14's & a return of the Under 16's. Under Jeff's guidance our juniors have been flying in recent seasons caped off with a much deserved premiership win in the 14's grade last year - With size restrictions on teams make sure you get there early.

Friday night saw the inaugural Altitude cup played between the states best Firefighters and Police at Fremantle oval. The Firies were well represented with Diorite players in Robbie Hansen, Russell Walton, Mark McQueen and past player Leon Berthelsen who is stationed at Perth Fire station. The firies were far too strong for the coppers running out winners 20. 21 to 2.5. with Hansen dominating at half forward, winning the umpires award, McQueen far to good for former South Fremantle player Marty Atkinson and Walton and Berthelsen picking up possession's at will all over the ground.

Life member and former ruckman/forward Ricky Tasker (154 games) caught up with past junior and current Sydney Swans player Ryan Brabazon over Christmas and was pleased to see Ryan fill out his playing jumper of the eighties. Hard to imagine the burly ruckman actually used to pull this on and star for the Diorites seeing the stats for Ryan from the Swans web site list him as 72kg ringing wet. Still, retired footballers stories as well as their growing do get bigger every year they are in retirement!
Good to see you Ricky!!!

Pre-season for the Diorites is underway for the 2008 season with good numbers hitting the track. There are three sessions per week and already the numbers are very good which has been pleasing for the club as the players will be seeking premiership number 39 in 2008. The sessions are Monday ( club gym ), Tuesday ( Morrison oval ) and Thursday ( Norkall Park ). Morrison oval is off Marshall St in West Lamington and Norkall Park is in Vivian St Boulder.
The club is also seeking the services of Sports Trainers so anyone with information please pass onto Peter Hunter ( 90215899 )

Proud parents Renae and Brett Pattison had their little man arrive on Monday 14th January. Bailey JAMES weighed in at 7 pound 9 ounces and has the makings of a defender already. Both Mum and Dad are doing well along with the little fella and from everyone at the Diorites we pass on " Congratulations " and look forward to seeing everyone at the Footy.

Former Mines Rovers midfielder Luke Toia will take the coaching reins at the South Bunbury Football Club in 2008 after retiring from WAFL football at the end of last season.

The 30-year-old who was drafted to Fremantle after the 94 season at the Diorites played 63 matches for the Dockers from 1996-2002 ended his WAFL career with Claremont (25 games) at the end of 2007 after starting with Subiaco (81 games) in 1995.

The often injury-stricken midfielder also played for Woodville West-Torrens (23 games) and North Adelaide (eight games) in the SANFL during his football career.

Mines Rovers will kick off the 2008 season and the defence of the 2007 premiership with a night game on Saturday March 29th against Kambalda at the nickle miners home ground. The first round will be completed with games against the Tigers at DDO on Sunday 6th April, the Panthers in a grand final replay on Saturday night the 12th of April and rounding out with the Roo's at SRMO on Sunday 20th April. The Diorites will have the bye to complete the first round. The first semi-final is on Saturday night 23/8, 2nd semi Sunday 24/8, preliminary Sunday 31/8 with the Grand Final to be played at SRMO on Saturday September 6th.

The Goldfields Football League has abandoned any future plans to conduct its grand final under lights.

Although the grand final format had not been slated as an official agenda item at Thursday night’s much-anticipated GFL forum, the issue of when the local game’s showcase should be played generated significant discussion.

The 2007 decider was contested under lights at the Sir Richard Moore Sports Centre for only the second time in GFL history - the only other occasion being in 2002.

League chairman Hugh Gallagher yesterday confirmed the grand final would again likely be played on a Saturday next year, but as a day fixture.

“The Saturday prior to the (2008) Boulder Cup is the anticipated date for the grand final,” Gallagher said.

“But it will definitely be a day grand final (because) it was unanimous that until we have better lights, there will be no night grand final.

“I got a lot of personal flak during the (2007) night grand final.

“I think that with the grand final, people’s expectations are high on all counts and it is detrimental for the game if we don’t have lighting in keeping with the spectacle.”

Gallagher said Thursday’s outcome would enable lovers of local football and thoroughbred racing to enjoy both spectacles in the city’s busiest sporting period of the year.

However, Gallagher said there was “no support at all” for Saturday afternoon matches during the qualifying series.

“They (the senior clubs) believe that the fixturing we currently have (Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons) is sufficient,” he said.

NEALE HARVEY - KALGOORLIE MINER

Mines Rovers have set down the date for the AGM which will be held on Saturday 24.11.07 at 3.00 pm in the Clubrooms at Digger Daws oval. After such a successful 2007 season a good turn out is expected and will be followed with a few Xmas cheers put on by President Pete. Any player or supporter wishing to purchase a copy of the team premiership photos they can get them from Image Works on Wilson Street.

With the passing of Bill Mader in Mandurah on the weekend the Diorites have lost a true champion of the club. Having first meet Bill at our centenary celebrations in 1998 he came across as a true gentleman and one that was still very much interested in how the Diorites were travelling and truly excited that the club was having success in the nineties. It was a great pleasure to meet a man who I had heard so many stories about as a fantastic centre half back of our great club and I’m sure his memory will live on with the Diorites.
Bill Mader was one of those typical country footballers who would have made it in the big time but had no interest in leaving his home town. Despite entreaties from Perth, East Perth, East Fremantle, Claremont and South Fremantle Mader stayed in the Goldfields, playing for the Diorites and later for Newtown in Esperance.
He retired at only 26 and the man they called Farmer or Goat’s Knees had a distinguished record when he finally hung up his boots.
Bill played in the grand final teams in 1954, 55, 56, 57, 60, 61 and 64 and was selected at centre half-back in the Goldfields All-stars team between (1950 – 93).
Individual awards included F&B in the junior competition in 52, best junior in the league competition in 54 and F&B at Mines in 56 and 60. Bill madder was made a life member of Mines Rovers in 1971.
All Diorites pass on their sincere condolences to Bill’s family.
Story by Jim McIntosh

Life membership awarded

5th October 2007, 13:00 WST



The work of its members behind the scenes is the lifeblood of any sporting organisation and on that score, Pam Woodock has done herself proud among the ranks of arguably Goldfields football’s proudest club.

Woodcock was bestowed life membership at the Diorites’ recent Osmetti Medal count - an honour which carried additional significance by the fact she became the first-ever female in the club’s 108-year history to receive the accolade.

It was richly deserved and provided formal recognition for a job well done which began when Woodcock joined the Diorites in 1989.

She initially worked as a junior delegate for nine seasons, including the role of Junior Council secretary.

Woodcock has spent the past nine seasons as club secretary and was also, for many years, a regular timekeeper for junior and colts fixtures.

Her various roles have also included junior team runner and goal umpiring duties but it proved to be only the tip of the iceberg, with her skills also extending to match-day canteen duties and catering arrangements for players’ teas.

Woodcock has also been Eastern Goldfields Softball League secretary for the past seven years.

Her work among the ranks of local junior sport culminated with her listing on the 100 Women of the Goldfields honour board at the WA Museum, Kalgoorlie-Boulder.

Story by NEALE HARVEY Kalg/miner

The recruiting of players is always tough in the Goldfields and to get a player out to Kalgoorlie/Boulder in a job that allows them to train and play footy in this day and age is not easy. However when the new recruit sends an email from Sweden saying he wants to come to the Goldfields and is the younger brother of two past players who are held in high regard at our footy club then Heaven and Earth is about to be moved. In the early part of the 2005 season the Diorites received that email from Mark McQueen asking can he come and play at the footy club and if possible can we help out in finding him an adult apprenticeship. With a CV behind him that had him at Subiaco and Swan Districts and an F&B from his last season in country Victoria in 2003 the return email inviting him to the Diorites could not hit cyber space quick enough. Marks first season, albeit the last round or so in 2005 was not outstanding but those who knew he had no training behind him, due to the snow in Sweden could see he had plenty to offer in 2006. In a big surprise Mark was accepted to join the Fire Brigade ( must be the blue and white ) in early 2006 and would once again miss doing a pre-season and also the first half of the year due to his training school which would see him spend 13 weeks in Perth. Mark returned to the City and played the last half of the year which wasn’t a great year for the club. 2007 was to be different and the potential that everyone saw in 2006 was about to come to fruition. Mark settled into his new job as a career fire fighter and the Diorites saw a very determined footballer put in his first pre-season for the club. The end result was not unexpected as Mark’s resume as a footballer and person all added up to what he was capable of producing and there is no doubt Mines Rovers were the winners in the long run.
PREMIERSHIP, FYSON AND OSMETTI medals in an outstanding year.

Mark McQueen completed a stellar season when he was announced the 2007 Osmetti Medal winner at Friday nights presentation. Mark, who already had a Premiership and Fyson medal from the Grand Final in his pocket produced an outstanding final series to overhaul Trent Moon who had an eleven vote lead at the end of the qualifying rounds but only recorded one more vote in the finals. McQueen's 16 vote finals series saw him fly home to win with 59 from Trent on 55. Steve Dewar completed his best season at the Diorites to finish 3rd on 33 with Leigh Mourish 27 and Mitch Graham on 21.
The Martin Medal for the Reserves F&B was won by Mathew Solly with 43 votes from Jonathon Haynes 38 and Neil Cyprian on 23.
In the McIntosh Medal, the Colts F&B, it was Neil Champion with a runnaway win on 73 votes from Keiron Giblett 46 and Josh Hunt on 41.
In other news a Life membership was bestowed upon Pam Woodcock who has served the Diorites superbly over 18 years, firstly as a Junior administrator and over the past 11 as the clubs senior secretary.

The 2007 Osmetti Medal presentation will be held this year at the Tower Hotel on Friday 21st September commencing at 6.30pm. Tickets are $50 pp and are available from Vice President Gavin Kennedy at Pat Kennedy's Carpet Choice, Hannan Street Kalgoorlie. This will be a great night so get in early for your tickets and keep the celebrations going.
The Premiership photo's for the League and Reserves will be taken this Thursday 13th at the club rooms followed by the count for the Martin (res) and McIntosh (colts) Medals. All players to be at the club rooms for the photo by 6pm sharp.
ps those who have nor shaved since Saturday please do.

Mines Rovers club rooms were packed out as loyal supporters gathered to celebrate the 38th Grand Final in the clubs history. A jubilant President Peter Hunter welcomed everyone there in great style as only Pedro can, but what was astonishing among the crowd was the long list of Presidents in the room at the same time- no George Bush had already departed Australia. All of the clubs ex Presidents from 1978 onwards, which are the only ones still living were in attendance to have a few frothies and congratulate this great club on an outstanding season Ken Murphy (1978-82 &87), Stan (Spraga) Curtis (1983-86), Frank Beccarelli (1988-89), Pat Kennedy (1990-92), Ian Clark (1993-94) and Jim McIntosh (1995-2005). Also past Directors in LLoyd Delbridge, Brian Edmonds, Frosty Martin, Brian Osmetti, Gary Eddy, Red Kennedy along with Priemiership coach (95-96) Rod Sumner and his trusty full forward Mick Garbin, who will go down in Diorites folklore as the first Diorite to kick 100 goals in a season (137), helped keep the bar staff run off their feet. Also the club would like to thank all the people who sent through their congrats via our web site as far away as Norway, UK, QLD, Perth, Esperance and Sydney- many thanks.
Picture- Captain Robbie Hansen holding aloft the Premiership Cup.

After being labelled all year by the critics as being too old and too slow the Diorites proved in last nights Golfields Football League Grand final that there is no substitute for class.
Right from the outset the Diorites put their stamp on the game with Fyson Medalist Mark McQueen taking control in the ruck and Moon and Walton dominating the clearances. Kicking into a 4 goal breeze in the first term the Diorites controlled general play and were unlucky not to be further in front at the first change with Hansen and James proving a handfull for the Panthers defence.
Dewar and veteran "Boof " Turner were providing plenty of run from defence and with with Fleay, Brabazon and Alexander providing links through the middle the forwards were receiving ample supply. Only innaccuray in front of goal in the second term kept the Panthers in the game and the 20 point half time lead flattered the opposition.
The third term was were the class of the Diorites really shone through with "Nobby" Mourish proving impassable playing a kick behind the play and the silky skills of Moon, Walton and Hansen frustrating every attempt by Railways to get back into the game. Leigh Mourish providing valuable support to McQueen in the ruck started to have a real influence and with Dewar, Bourne and Turner still generating run from half back it looked a case of how far the Diorites. This proved to be the case in the final term when they ran rough shod over the flagging Panthers kicking 7 goals in th final term to run out convincing 68 point winners. The Diorites had winners all over the ground and it was hard to fathom where the teams perceived lack of pace had emanated from. Matt James at Full forward with 5 goals provided the Diorites with a genuine target going forward and his accurate kicking resulted in 5 goals on a night not suited for full forwards.
The win is a magnificent turn around for the club and much of the credit must go to coach Grahan Borchett who had the team superbly drilled, disciplined and focused. The clubs 38th flag is a magnificent achievement and everyone involed should be justifiably proud of their efforts.

The GFL will honour former Diorites dual premiership captain (95 & 96 ) Jeff ( Flower ) Turner with the task of tossing the coin in tomorrow nights grand final between Mines Rovers and Railways. Jeff, a life member of the club, and honory GFl member was an ispirational leader at the Diorites in his playing days and is still heavily involved with the juniors. With an impressive 8 GFL league grandfinal wins and numerous grandfinal berths & wins from juniors to league there are not too many more experienced players in Goldfields Footballs modern history. Jeff is also the 2001 Subiaco Golds medallist for his best on ground performance in the Diorites 2001 victory and a past GFL Rookie of the year (1986). He was also very good at two-up the day after many of those grand finals so lets hope he can put the coin right side up for Robbie Hansen.

Leigh Mourish will play his 50th game for the Diorites in Saturday Night's Grand Final. Leigh is the younger brother of Nathan, current centre half forward and Jonathon, both who have also played 50 games for the Blue and Whites. The last grand final the Diorites played in was 2004 which had the three brothers share in an emotional and memorable win as they lost their father Gus in the week leading up to the game. This week the two brothers will hope to add another grand final victory in what have been outstanding careers for our footy club. Leigh has been some what of a journeyman in his football life starting off when picked in the Teal Cup squad alongside the likes of Ben Cousins whilst playing for the Perth Demons At Perth he finished 3rd in the Colts F&B and went on to play 30 games in the reserves. A move to Peel Thunder in 2001 saw him play 15 reserve games and two league games in which he lined up with his two brothers for the first time in their footy careers. Leigh has also played around 100 games for Federals and Beverly in the Avon league and represented Avon at Wesfarmers and also the Goldfields in the last three Land Mark carnivals. Congratulation Leigh and lets hope you cap it off with another Grand Final win.

Selwood crowned AFL's Rising Star

Jason Shields - Geelong Addy

05Sep07


JOEL Selwood today wrote himself into Geelong Football Club history as the first Cats player to win the NAB Rising Star Award.


The 19-year-old, who was taken at pick seven in last year's national draft, collected the coveted award as the best first year player in the AFL at a lunchtime ceremony at the Palladium at Crown today.

The boy from Bendigo joined some of the AFL's elite including Nathan Buckley, Ben Cousins, Adam Goodes and Nick Riewoldt as a winner of the Rising Star award, which first started in 1993.

Selwood won the award with 44 votes, with Scott Pendelbury on 37 votes second and Nathan Jones on 17 in third place.

``It's not something that I set out to (achieve) at the start of the year,'' Selwood said.

``It only felt like yesterday since I walked in here so I haven't really re-assessed (my goals) but it was never in the plans to go out and win an individual honour. I don't think it is in many people.''

Selwood is the younger brother of West Coast and Brisbane twins Adam and Troy, who were both nominated for the Rising Star in 2005, the year that Brett Deledio eventually won the award.

Geelong coach Mark Thompson declared in July that Selwood was the best first year player he had seen by a mile.

And that praise was backed up by seasoned Cat midfielder Cameron Ling this week.

``I don't want to put too much pressure on him, but he has had the biggest impact of any first year player I have seen,'' Ling said.

``He is constantly in there getting the hard ball or he is laying the hard tackle and I think that is why blokes respect him so much.''

Mines Rovers colts bowed out of the Grand Final race on Sunday going down to Railways by 34 points. With Diorites in front at the half way mark by 3 points they could not contain the talented Panthers team in the 3rd quarter and were out scored 7 goals to 1 with both sides kicking four in the last. Good players for the Diorites were Josh Hunt, Neil Champion, Kerion Giblett (pictured) and Travis Hart who kicked 5 goals. Keiron Giblett will be hoping to get another chance at a GF medal as in will be in the selection mix for the seniors on Saturday night.
Score Railways 15.9 99
Mines 10.5 65

Mines 14 & Under team have got the grand final series of to a flying start for the Diorites with a fantastic win in last weekends 14 and Under Goldfields Junior Football League Grand Final against Railways in a 8.11 (59) to 7.6 (48) scoreline. The narrow 11 point win was once again orchestrated by the hard running Diorite midfield led by captain Delson Trott with a best on ground performance.The win at Sir Richard Moore Sports Arena was witnessed by a large crowd of spectators thrilling the large contingent of Diorites supporters who turned out in force to watch the closely fought out match. It was pleasing to see the large amount of senior league, reserves and colts players all their cheering on the future of the club and urging the boys on in the final quarter when the match got very close. Conragulations must go to all the team on their fantastic efforts all season and to the coaching staff of Andrew Zafer, Jeff Turner, Brett Mais & Tony Cummins in their efforts in getting the team to the grand final. To our junior club led by the hard working Jeff & Nardia Turner - congratulations on the great season and awesome effort in turning our juniors around and we look forward to the future of the Diorites playing stocks - For a full match report and all the end of season awards please click on our junior link.

With the League and Reserves teams through to the Grand Final Saturday night week the Mines Rovers selectors have a problem on their hands, albeit a problem they would rather have, which is a full squad of players to pick from. Missing from the 2nd semi win were Darrah Doutch and Marc Johnstone, two players who have been in the League side all year but missed through suspension ( Darrah ) and injury ( Marc ) but both have had a good season up forward keeping the goal umps busy, Darrah with 25 and Marc 22 goals in the qualifying rounds. Add to both these players being available for selection you also have a Reserves list, and a very impressive list it is with quality players such as Paul Hunter (pictured) and Mathew Crowley, both who have been in the leadership group before knee and leg injuries they received at the start of the year interrupted their seasons. Other players in the Reserves who have played league for the Diorites are Justin Doutch, Ben Barsanti, Luke Puertollano, Daniel Zecca, Boyden Champion, Ross and Corey Lynch, Ben Mullally, Rob Leahy, Shane Eldridge, Ben Pickett and Neil Cyprian. I'm sure all players in the League team will be doing everything in their powers over the next week to make sure they hold their spot and are focused on being part of a premiership team. Another selection problem will be if Colts players, Cody Alexander, Keiron Giblett and Joel Gust are released this week to play in the preliminary final or given the weeks rest - as I said - all very good problems - GO DIORITES

Brilliant midfielder Trent Moon was last night awarded the 2007 Kalgoorlie Miner Footballer of the Year in the GFL's big presentation night " the Mitchell Medal". Trent has had a fantastic year for the Diorites and went along to the night as the favorite for the Mitchell, but as as happened many times before the favorite hasn't taken home the award. Trent finished in second place on 33 votes behind Railways ruckman James Langley on 36 votes. However it was great to see the prime mover of the Diorites midfield take out the pretigious Kalgoorlie Miner award and he will be eagerly awaiting the Grand Final hoping to cap off a great 2007 season. The Diorites were also awarded the George Krepp champion club award which is decided on the ladder finish of all senior and junior clubs. The fantastic results from our senior clubs combined with that of our juniors should make everyone at the Diorites feel proud of a great 2007 and special mention to Past league captain Jeff Turner and his wife Nardia and all their helpers who have lifted our juniors back up the ladder.

Sharks through to Grand Final, their first in 23 years, Bats and Wolves to do battle in next week. Former Diorite junior Jake McIntosh played a major role in the victory and proud Dad Jim is over the moon he continued playing AFL when he moved to Sydney to attend university in the Rugby League state.

Southern Sharks are the first side through to the Grand Final with an inspiring 14 point win over Minor Premiers UTS at Kelso Oval on Saturday. UTS will now do battle with Manly Warringah in the Preliminary Final after the Wolves eliminated Holroyd Parramatta with a 32 point win on Sunday.

The Sharks had to overcome the loss of Coach and reigning Snow Medallist Jason Philp who was taken from the field on a stretcher in the second term and did not return. The Sharks Stuart Brierty also left the field on a stretcher in the second quarter with what looked like a serious injury however he was able to return after half time and played a pivotal role in the Sharks 8.10.68 to 6.8.44 win.

Southern Sharks troubled the Bats with their pace and were able to get the jump in the first term and they led by 14 points at quarter time. As you would expect from the Minor Premiers, they hit back in the second term and reduced the gap to just seven points after the long break The third quarter was a dogged affair with both teams only able to register one major and set the stage for a thrilling finish with the Sharks in front by nine points at the final break. After battling hard all day the Sharks were not about to relinquish their advantage and with Alan Fritsch dominating across half forward, in a best on ground display, the Southern Sharks finished the better to record a 14 point win and earn a weeks rest. For UTS all is not lost as they get to fight another day this Saturday. Apart from Fritsch, Jake McIntosh ( pictured ) and Joel Thompson had strong games for the Sharks whilst Jon Lynas, Luke Horder and Drew Pearse were UTS' best.

Mines Rovers progressed through to the grand final with a gutsy 9 point win in blustery conditions over Railways at Digger Daws oval today. In a low scoring encounter the Diorites held a 15 point lead at the main change and then held out a late charge by the Panthers, who closed within 3 points half way through the last quarter. With goals to Russell Walton and Keiron Giblett, who steered one through from deep in the pocket with no daylight between the sticks, ensured the Diorites a place in the 2007 Grand Final. Mark McQueen was best on ground for the blue and whites with a great effort in the ruck and around the ground, Robbie Hansen, Trent Moon and Steve Dewar were also in great touch.
The Reserves also are through to the grand final with a 9 point win over top of the table Roos with a fantastic team performance and the Colts with a win in the 1st semi also over the Roos by 20 points will play next weeks preliminary final for a chance to have all three Diorite teams in the 2007 Grand Finals. GO DIORITES

Last night Mines Rovers Under 14's star player Delson Trott was awarded the Goldfields Junior Football League Under 14's Fairest and Best Footballer for season 2007. In the count hosted at the Diorites clubrooms last night, Trott polled an incredible 67 votes to easily take the honours from Kambalda Karl Steinhauser by 12 votes. Amazingly young Delson polled the maximum 5 votes in 12 out of 15 games during the home and away season and polled in every single one of the 14 games he played for the season (he missed the last qualifying game due to injury). Delson is the captain of our under 14's team and his silky skills are great to watch. He has played all his football at the club since joining as a 10 year old -sticking with his team through thick and thin and is definately a player to watch in future years. Delson's win provided our Under 14's team with a great boost in the lead up to their forthcoming grand final match on September the 1st. Several other 14's players polled well and the results will be on our juniors page in the next few days. Congratulations to Delson on the much deserved award, once again you have done the club proud.

The finals begin this weekend with all Mines Rovers sides participating in them.
The Colts are into the first semi with the Reserves and League playing off in the second semi's. The time's are;
Saturday 3pm Mines v Kalgoorlie (colts ) at Digger Daws.
Sunday 12pm Kalgoorlie v Mines ( res ) at 2.15pm Mines v Railways ( league ) at Digger Daws.
Gates open 1.30pm ( Sat ) and 8.30am ( Sun ).

Mines Rovers Under 14 team have secured a long awaited grand final berth after a thrilling match against the redlegs in last weekend second semi final. The Andrew Zafer lead team held strong against a determined Railways team to come out 10 point winners and earn themeselves a chance at the flag. All junior finals will be played at Sir Richard Moore on Saturday the 1st of September and we urge all Diorites to get down and show the team who have come from the bottom of the ladder the past two seasons to show them some much need support! Also on the day our under 12's will have several players playing in the lead up exhibition matches between the Goldfields 12 year old squad. For a full match report and more junior news click on the junior link for an update.

It is all good news at the Diorites this week as they prepare for next week's 2nd semi final against the Panthers. With the Captain, Robbie Hansen and brothers Nathan and Leigh Mourish available for the game from injury and suspension further good news was established by Diorites.com that Hansen and fellow Osmetti Medalist Russell Walton have indicated that they will go around again in 2008. Both players want to reach individual milestones, Hansen 150 (139) games and Walton 100 (93) games for the club they have served with distinction. Robbie has received the Osmetti Medal four times 98, 01, 02 and 06 with Russell receiving it twice in 2000 and again in 04 and both players have won 3 premiership medals in 01, 03 (undefeated) and 04. Speaking with Robbie this week he has real affection for the Diorites and would love to play on forever but even the great man knows what his body is telling him so one more season will be his farewell as a player. To reach 150 games and qualify for life membership would be a great way to bring down the curtain on a career that in many eyes is one of the best ever seen at the Blue and Whites.

Mines Rovers junior product Jason Boyd is set to play his 50th game for the Diorites in the 2nd semi final against Railways on Sunday week. Jason who has played all his junior football for the club and is a dual Colts Fairest and Best winner in 2003/04 has been a consistent rover/small forward in his previous 49 games for the club and this year has kicked 14 goals in a very potent forward line along side the likes of Matt James and Nathan Mourish.
Congratulations are also extended to young Colts player Josh Hunt who played his first league game for the club in last weeks win over the Roos in the Diorites final home and away match.

Ron ( Strizza ) Moriarty, our former head trainer, currently with Ports in Esperance has been honoured by the WAFC. Below is the letter Ron received this week notifying him of his selection.



Congratulations!! You are the Goldfields District Finalist winner for the WAFC “Volunteer of the Year 2007” program.

Your love for our great game has shone through, and you have therefore been selected to the District Finalist in the “Volunteer of the Year 2007” program!



The WAFC and greater Football Community would like to thank you for your selflessness, hard work and dedication. Football would not be what it is today, without your tireless commitment.



Your efforts to “Grow the Game” have not gone unnoticed! As such, you have been selected as the Goldfields District Finalist of the “Volunteer of the Year 2007”.

There is one Finalist from each District (and that is you!) and each Finalist has won 2 tickets to attend the Sandover Medal on September 17th 2007 where you will be presented with a trophy and certificate for your efforts. Your 2 tickets to the Sandover Medal will be in the mail and out to you by the end of August 2007.



The overall State winner of the “Volunteer of the Year 2007” will be announced at The Sandover Medal from the District Finalists and will win a trip for 2 to Melbourne to see the AFL Grand Final. (including accommodation, flights, two tickets to the Grand Final AFL Game and 2 tickets to the Eagles AFL Grand Final Breakfast!) That’s a prize of nearly $7000 to the overall State winner – you have a one in 17 chance of winning that thank you prize!



The WAFC and greater Football Community want to recognise the sacrifices you have made, to make our game as great as it is – and look forward to sharing many more fabulous footy moments with you in the future! Keep up the good work!
PS Lets hope Strizz wins so he can see the Mighty Cats!

Diorite Chris Brabazon's brother Ryan keeps putting his hand up to Paul Roos by continually playing well in the Swans reserve side. Below is the match report from last weeks game.

SWANS TROUNCE AINSLIE

The Swans' Reserves remain undefeated, posting another outstanding victory over Ainslie on Saturday in cold and windy conditions at Manuka Oval, winning by 159 points.

Ryan Brabazon, who was drafted at number 59 from Kalgoorlie in 2005, led the charge playing on the ball and at half forward. He picked up 45 possessions and kicked two goals. Tim Schmidt, with 45 disposals playing on the ball and Ed Barlow, who picked up fifteen possessions playing at centre half back in the final term, were also in the Swans' best. Lewis Roberts-Thomson, with five goals, Jonathan Simpkin and Simon Phillips also made an impression.

The Swans were leading by 52 points at the first break after kicking seven goals and keeping Ainslie goalless. By the twenty minute mark of the quarter only Sam Rowe, Phillips and Matthew Laidlaw had goaled but in the last five minutes, the Swans managed to pile on another four. Schmidt had two by the break and Simpkin and Jared Crouch also added their names to the scoreboard.

Brabazon opened the second term with two goals in the first twelve minutes and Jarred Moore also goaled for the Swans before Ainslie managed to kick their first goal for the game. Phillips kicked his goal from a free kick and Schmidt kicked another before the main break with a mark and goal from 45 metres.

The Swans piled on another three goals in the first ten minutes of the third term, with goals to top-up player Hanily, Phillips and Simpkin. At three quarter time the Swans were leading by 127 points after Roberts-Thomson kicked four goals in a row, two from free kicks, one on the run in the goal square and the fourth from a snap.

Ainslie kicked their second and final goal of the game at the beginning of the last quarter and all though the game was over the Swans added another six goals to their final score. Moore, Phillips and Stephen Doyle all goaled, and Roberts-Thomson took his tally for the game to five. Barlow also kicked two goals in the last quarter.

Next week the Reserves have a bye, but will take on Eastlake on Saturday August 18 at Manuka Oval in Canberra at 2.00pm.

SCORE
Ainslie: 0.1, 1.1, 1.2, 2.3 (15)
Swans Reserves: 7.11, 12.16, 19.21, 24.24 (168)

Best: Ainslie: Neely, Renet, Love, Mooney, McFarlane, Paine
Swans Reserves: Brabazon; Schmidt; Barlow; Simpkin; Phillips; Roberts-Thomson

Goals: Ainslie: Jillard, Perry
Swans Reserves: Roberts-Thomson 5; Phillips 4; Schmidt 3; Barlow 2, Brabazon 2, Moore 2, Simpkin 2; Doyle, Laidlaw, Crouch, Rowe, Hanily.

The annual GFL Football Forum will be held on Thursday 8th November commencing at 5.30pm. As in previous years we would like as many interested people as possible to attend the Forum.

We have started to compile some agenda items and look forward to receiving other items from you. As we don't want the Forum to drag on all night, any items without notice will not be discussed, so start thinking about things that are important to your club now so that we can put them on the agenda.

The GFL will provide the catering.

Agenda items:

Time-on for colts and reserves in night games
Reserves competition - lack of numbers
GFL Grand Final venue
Length of season - is it too long, too short or just right?
Essential football infrastructure
Colts and Reserves playing times, following the trial in the first round this year of playing the colts after the Reserves
Review of Standard Penalties for Standard Offences system and Report of Umpire form
Yellow cards, timing of - should time on/time off be included in the 15 minutes or is this just 15 minutes of missed game time?
Grand final bars - GFL or clubs?

The Diorites ran out winners by 8 points in a close encounter at Digger Daws Oval in yesterdays top of the table clash against the Panthers. It was the fourth straight victory against last years premiers, the Blue and Whites having won all of the home and away games in 2007 and will now see them face off in the 2nd semi final in three weeks time. Matt James was again a target up forward and finished with 4 majors, the only multiple goal kicker for the Diorites in a game that they trailed at every change before producing a four goal last quarter to grab the points.
In the other games the Reserves ran out easy winners with Daniel Zecca kicking another bag (5) however the Colts were beaten but showed a vast improvement.

FOXTEL Sydney AFL Volunteer of the Week- Round 15

Name: Jake McIntosh

Club: Southern Sharks/Mines Rovers

AFL Team supported: Geelong Cats

Position held at Southern Sharks: Player and Committee Member

How did you start out at Southern Sharks? Began playing Under 18s after moving from Western Australia and graduated in to the senior ranks.

Length of time with club? 6 years

Occupation outside of football? University student/Bar attendant

What is it about the club that I admire? The close-knit nature of everyone at the club, and the determination of everyone involved to win a premiership in 2007.

What is the most difficult task you perform? Marking out the ground after 3 weeks of rain.

What areas do you think need addressing in the Sydney AFL? I think the first division competition needs to be more competitive.

Most admired player in the AFL/why? Baby Jesus (Gary Ablett jnr), because of the way he can tear a game open.

Why Southern Sharks nominated: At a young age, Jake has been an integral part of the club’s committee the past few years, showing maturity well beyond his years. Jake is the club’s social committee officer and is always one of the first at the ground to help out. He helps set up on match day, is a club umpire, helps out in the canteen and even takes the guernseys home for washing! Jake is also a regular member of the Sharks’ first grade side.

The Diorites recorded their 12th win for the season with a crushing win over traditional rivals Boulder in yesterdays clash at Digger Daws Oval and in doing so took hold of the Macgregor-Kennedy Boulder Derby Cup. The Diorites dominated in just about every position on the ground to run out winners by 83 points 23.10 (148) to 10.5 (65). The big forwards for Mines in Nathan Mourish (pictured) and Matt James dominated the forward line and finished with 4 and 6 goals each and were well supported by Marc Johnstone who also finished with 4. Trent Moon continued his outstanding season with another superb game in the middle and continually provided many opportunities for the forwards. The Diorites will look to continue this form as they head towards the finals and will hope the captain Robbie Hansen and fellow Osmetti Medallist Russell Walton can play in the remaining two home and away games before the 2nd semi final.

The mini Diorites, our Under 10's team have finally broke through for their maiden win this season. A one point win over the Saints was enough to secure the long awaited win & the Jeff Turner led team celebrated like they had just won the AFL flag with goal umpire Greggy Sortras leading the way. Well done boys!

Meanwhile the Mines under 14's have continued their good form with the ladder now showing them clear leaders on the the Under 14's table. The boys are striding ahead, have secured top position and now sit 3 games clear and strong percentage ahead of last years premiers Kambalda. The team has shown marked improvement on previous seasons, and after finishing at the bottom of the standings the previous two seasons, and are really enjoying being in the older side of their age group. Well Done to the team, Coach Andrew Zafer, Manager Tony Cummins, Team Runner Brett Mais and Junior President & Assistant Coach Jeff Turner in getting the boys up and running. With a second semi final & possible grand final berth awaiting them all our supporters are urged to get down and support the team in the lead up to the finals.

The Under 12's continue to sweep all before them and still remain unbeaten under the guiding hand of dual Osmetti Medallist Russell Walton and assistant Ben Barsanti. The team has won an amazing amount of games in a row and for more junior news click on our link at left to see how all our Junior teams are faring

This weekends round of fixtures against arch rivals and co tenants Boulder sees the annual McGregor/Kennedy Cup match. The club will be holding a cassrrole tea after thematch to honour club life memebr new all time GFL game record holde Brett "Boofhead" Turner after the match. All supporters are urged to get down to Digger Daws Oval to support the team and make it a great day to celebrate Boof's magnificent achievement as well. Casseroles can be left at the kitchen prior to the match or brought up straight after the game.

Brett ( Boof ) Turner will stand alone tomorrow as the GFL's game record holder when he takes the field against the Kambalda Eagles in the clash at the Kambalda West oval. Brett will pass the 275 game milestone which was held by larry Middleton the former eagle ruckman. his 1993 coach Colin McIntyre acknowledges his outstanding achievement -
TRIBUTE TO BRETT TURNER

Well done to Brett on achieving an outstanding record of breaking Larry Middleton's long standing record.

It has taken a long time, but you have finally made it. A fantastic tribute to your endurance and your wonderful service to the Diorites.

I was fortunate enough to see both you and Larry play and its fantastic that 2 icons of the game lead the games record.

Well done again Boof because I can only follow your last 12 years or so from a distance, but I still enjoy reading the Kalgoorlie Miner and the
football club's web site on a frequent basis.

You would make a good coach also, although you have been doing it for a while!

Apart from counting your money on a daily basis, you can now continue to reflect on an outstanding personal record and also your team success of playing in
8 premiership sides with 2 famous clubs.

Your brother Jeff and yourself have been an ornament to the game!

Goldfields 16.14 (110) defeated Ongerup 5.5 (35).

The quarter by quarter scores were:

Goldfields 7.2 10.7 12.12 16.14
Ongerup 1.1 2.3 4.3 5.5

Goal kickers were:
Leigh Mourish (4)
Clinton Rudd (3)
Rob Hansen (2)
Aaron Rymer (1)
David Clark (1)
Brendon Sacilotto (1)
Henry Papertalk (1)
Justin Langridge (1)
Dale Beeson (1)
Best Players were Clinton Rudd, David Clark, Aaron Rymer, Wes Miller and Mark McQueen.

The Goldfields team had a first up win against Mortlock in the Landmark Country Championships today. The final score was Goldfields 14.12 (96) defeated Mortlock 12.8 (80). Goal kickers were:
Aaron Rymer (3)
Leigh Mourish (3)
Clinton Rudd (2)
Henry Papertalk (2)
Justin Langridge (1)
Rob Hansen (1)
Dale Beeson (1)
Matt James (1)
Best players were: Clinton Rudd, Aaron Rymer, Trent Moon, Justin Langridge and David Stubbs.

After the loss to Kangas last week the Diorites have enjoyed the bye but will have a big contingent of players representing the Goldfields at this weeks Land Mark country carnival with 13 players selected in the squad. They will return from that carnival to begin the last round with a clash against the rejuvenated Kambalda Eagles who recorded their first win of the year against the Kangas. The big talking point in GFL footy has been the recruitment of former West Coast Eagles big man Troy Wilson (pictured) and his six goal effort against Kalgoorlie was a big part of the reason they came up with their first win. The talking point at the Diorites over the next couple of weeks will be who will play on the big guy. Nathan Mourish and Mark McQueen have selected themselves only for the fact that they are two of the biggest bodies in the Diorites squad and at least both have WAFL experience. I’m sure coach Graeme Borchett will not have players knocking on the door to put their case forward to play at fullback on Wilson but his inclusion into the Kambalda side has certainly brought plenty of interest back into the local competition which can only be good for the game and should result in more people coming through the turnstiles.
With a general bye in local senior footy this week, the annual u/12 junior games against the Ballajura Football club from Perth will take place and anyone wanting to see the best of our local juniors in action should get to Digger Daws oval this weekend and give them some support.

For all the latest news on how well our junior club is going click on our junior link on the left. Under the guiding hand of club stalwart Jeff "Flower" Turner, our junior club is going along very nicely with some great results. At the completion of the second round of junior fixtures our once struggling under 14's team now sit on top of the standings. Well done to coach Andrew Zafer and alll those involved with the team, especially the players who have stuck with the team and are now enjoying their hard work. Good luck for the final round in the lead up to the finals. Diorites star Russell Walton might be injured but his Under 12's continue to shine and are now on a 36 game winning streak!. The juniors will have a Players Tea tonight along with their player of the round awards and all are welcome to come along and support the players and junior commitee.

Russell Walton is to miss this weeks game against Kanga’s after he strained a calf muscle during last nights gruelling session. Walton had recovered from a hamstring stain and would have been a welcome addition to the line up as Steve Dewar, due to play his 50th game for the Diorites this week is unavailable due to work commitments. Walton should be back in action for the Diorites when they clash with the Eagles on July 22nd which will be the first game of the last series before the finals. If ever there is a good time to be injured it was now as the Diorites have two byes in a row with their normal fixture bye followed by the Land Mark carnival in Perth from July 11th – 15th. However all the news was not bad at last nights selection meeting with big forward Nobby Mourish and Ruckman Matt Fink both included in the line-up after missing last weeks clash with the Panthers due to work.

Mines Rovers stalwart Brett ( Boof ) Turner is set to equal the number of club games for the Goldfields Football League when he takes the field against Kanga’s this week-end The record of 275 games is currently held by former Railways and Kambalda ruckman Larry Middleton who was an outstanding player during the 70’s and 80’s. Brett will line up for game number 230 for the Diorites on Sunday having also played 45 games for the Tigers before swapping camps in 1991.This is an outstanding record and one that Brett should be very proud of and anyone wishing to pass on an email of congratulations can send it through to

jim@minesrovers.com
For a more detailed history of Brett’s career scroll down to the story posted on the 23rd May.

Jim



As previously mentioned, I think I have seen all but a handful of those games

and definitely rate him as one of the best players I have seen at the club.



- you can pass on my congrats for sure



delbo



Jeff Delbridge
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Congratulations Boof on an outstanding career over all those years. You would be an automatic selection in the Diorites All-stars team of the 90’s.
Jim McIntosh
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Boof,

Congratulations on getting to Larries record. A magnificent achievement.

I played alongside Larry the day he beat the old record.......I am sorry I couldn't hang on another 11 years to be there alongside you when you set the new mark!


All the best
Mick Garbin
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Howdy Jim,

Pass on my congratulations to Brett for this great milestone.

I certainly enjoyed playing with Boof and watching him annoy the hell out his opponents and team mates with his chatter.

Hopefully the trainers can keep him taped him up for a few more games

Cheers Tapps
Peter Tapper
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"Congratulations Boof, a magnificent achievement, in many ways you have not only played 250 games but you've coached them as well. Without doubt one of the most talented players to pull on a diorites jumper. While sometimes difficult to coach, you were a pleasure to watch because you always thought 3 possessions ahead, which sometimes put you at odds with your teammates. Well done and enjoy the occasion

Regards

Rod Sumner 1995,1996 coach

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Well done boof on a huge achievement, I had a great time on and off the park with you and hope you have a fantastic day as you have had so many times in the past with the diorites.

congrats

gilly
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Mines Rovers Steve Dewar and Jamie Bolt will both line up for their 50th league match in this Sundays game against Kalgoorlie City. Dewar , who joined the Diorites via South Fremantle has been an outstanding player for the club and is a player who adds hardness around the contest and can also slot through a goal from long range. Jamie Bolt is a product of the clubs juniors and the team will be hoping he has recovered from a heavy hit in the game against the Panthers last week so he can play in his 50th along side Steve. Jamie played most of his juniors as a small forward/rover but a growth spurt when he was around 16 saw him fly past the 180cm mark and become a dominant tall wingman.
In other news the stats tell us why the Diorites are sitting on top of the ladder with five of top ten goal scorers for 2007 coming from the Blue and Whites. Matty James (28), Darrah Doutch (21), Marc Johnstone and Nathan Mourish (16) along with Jamie Bolt (14) have provided the goals on the board and form a very potent combination up forward. With an outstanding mid-field of the quality of Moon, Hansen, Dewar, Walton, McQueen and Alexander the forwards should be able to provide more of the same for the remainder of the season with the amount of inside 50’s they will receive from what is undoubtly the best mid-field in the competition.

An accurate Mines Rovers yesterday accounted for Railways by 45 points at Sir Richard Moore sports centre. The Diorites played their best team football in a month in an outing that must have pleased Coach Graeme Borchett no end. With only one game too go against Kangas to close out the third round before the last qualifying round commences and the run down to the finals it was just the hit out the Diorites needed. The mid-field was once again the reason for the Diorites dominance with Steve Dewar, Trent Moon, Cody Alexander and Robbie Hansen (pictured) in his first game back from injury getting plenty of the ball forward to supply big forward Matt James and Marc Johnstone with plenty of goal scoring opportunities. Mark McQueen is showing the benefits of a great pre-season and was once again in great form in the ruck and has had a stellar period over the last month. Youngster Alan Polak, who had only his sixteenth birthday last week was also very good and shows signs that he has a great future in front of him.
The reserves and colts also had good wins which gave the Diorites a treble for the day. In the reserves Daniel Zecca again dominated up forward with 7 goals in their 95 point win whilst in the colts Joash Polak and Neil Champion with 4 and 3 goals each headed the goal scorers in their 30 point win.

The Diorites displayed a great brand of football in the first half yesterday which gave them a 31 point lead over the Tigers and enough for them to hang on and win by 6 points after the scores were all tied up at three quarter time. Ruckman Mark McQueen (pictured) played an outstanding game and it was through his efforts alone that the Blue and Whites recorded the win. With three first gamers in Alan Polak, Luke Gust and Tristan Walker along with Ritchie Bourne playing his first game for the year the Diorites will be happy that they grabbed the four points especially with Captain Robert Hansen, Russell Walton, Chris Brabazon, (injured) Cody Alexander, Keiron Giblett and Benny Basley (colts carnival) not available. The Cat Marc Johnstone 3 and Jamie Bolt 2 were the major goal scorers. The Reserves returned to the winners list with Forward Daniel Zecca getting among the goals with 8 and he was supported by Robbie Leahy and Brad Spurling with 3 each. With the Colts carnival played on the weekend their round of fixtures will be played on the 15th July.

Last Sunday saw the Diorites take the points against a gallant Eagles combination at Kambalda Oval. A eight goal last quarter to nil resulted in a 44 point win after they trailed by 8 points going into the last stanza. Once again the Blue and Whites were led in outstanding fashion by Trent Moon (pictured) who continues to lead from the front and should be leading in most awards up for grabs this season. Cody Alexander, Keiron Giblett who played his first league game for 2007, Leigh Mourish, Mark McQueen who led the ruck and Darrah Doutch with 4 goals were also good players.
This week the Diorites come up against co-tennants the Tigers who are coming off a one point win against Kangas and will need to start the game in the same fashion as they finished off Kambalda. Robert Hansen and Russell Walton who have missed the last two games will undergo fitness tests this week and will be welcomed inclusions if passed fit.

Brett (Boof) Turner who is in his seventeenth season for the Diorites is closing in on the club games record of 237 which is held by the late Alan Forrest. Alan was a champion goal sneak kicking totals of 18 and 16 in several matches and was widely regarded as an automatic selection for any WA or VFL league team had he bothered to venture away but he preferred to live in the Goldfields, giving outstanding service to Mines Rovers. Boof who is on 225 games at present, will finish on 234 after the qualifying series which I’m sure all Diorites fans will be hoping for a 2nd semi final berth and a trip straight to the grand final which will leave him stranded on 236 games – one short of the record and that is if he can stay injury free. Brett was recruited to the Diorites along with Brother Jeff (Flower) in one of the biggest coups of the nineties in a meeting with Mines officials in his fathers back shed. Brian Osmetti and Jim McIntosh walked away with the two signatures that night that was to turn around the fortunes of the footy club that had been starved of success for the past nineteen years. The Diorites went on to win the 91 premiership with the two brothers playing a major role in the first grand final win since 1972 and have since added a further six flags in Brett’s time at the club.Brett played in every GFL league Grand Final from 1989 to 1996 (eight straight) with the exceptions on 1997 & 1998 then played 2000, 2001( Capt ) & 2002 missed 2003 (played ressies) then played 2004. a total of 12 GFL league grand final appearances including 8 wins - 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 2001, 2004. (Jeff holds an equally impressive record having played with Boulder in 1986, 1989 & then Mines 1991 - 1996, 2001, 2002 & 2003). The brothers started their careers at Boulder and an interesting stat is the fact that Brett played in a GFL Grand final from sub juniors to league in every year from 1981 until 1996 collecting numerous Sub Junior, Colts & a reserves premierships along the way. During the late eighties & early nineties it seemed that Boof played in every Football and Cricket final being played & he also boasts an impressive Cricket Trophy cabinet too from playing days at North Kalg along with two Kalgoorlie Miner Cricketer of the Year awards as well but that's another story.


Known not only for his love of the game and playing ability, Boof has always been known for his football knowledge and has been known to have a few opinions for many a coach about how best to play the game prompting dual premiership coach Rod Sumner to once state he was the hardest player to coach because he always had a better way to do it! Having said that Boofs love of a chat & interesting opinions has always kept the interest high not only for those at the club but also for many opposition players as well. One of the more likeable characters in Goldfields Football, many a player could attest that if Boof didn't beat you on playing abilty he had you laughing that much he ended up with the ball anyway!

Some of the highlights for Brett have been the premiership wins with the 93 one being his favourite as he also received the Fairest and Best medal in the same year along with the undefeated flag of 95. Other highlights was having his name alongside Ron (Strizza) Moriarty and Mick Toia above the trainers room – put there by fellow team mates who thought he spent as much time in there as the two very good trainers did. In 2003 due to work commitments Brett could not devote as much time to footy as in the past but still played in the reserves side helping them to the flag as well as winning the Martin Medal as the F & B player of the year for the Diorites along with the F&B medal for the GFL. It wasn’t long before he returned to the league team, and has one senior player I spoke to this week is still very much worth his spot in the side because he still has the footy smarts. Brett has been a major part of the football club over the past decade and a half and along with brother Jeff, who is also a premiership captain (dual 95&96) should have no problems with a title of legend when spoken about in reference to his playing career at Mines Rovers. In my time at the football club from 91 to 05 I rate Brett in the top ten footballers that have played for the club over that period and the type of player who could perform in the big matches. I’m sure I am joined by all Diorites in wishing Brett all the best for the remainder of the year and we all hope it is a successful one.

Report by Jim McIntosh

Brett has also played 45 league games for Boulder and 10 GFL games.

Mines Rovers recorded their seventh win in a row to hold out Railways by 9 points in a tough encounter at Sir Richard oval yesterday. In the Belt Up game of the round the Diorites set up their win with a strong first term were they outscored the Panthers 6 goals to 3. They were well served by small forward Jason Boyd (pictured) who turned in his best game for the club and Matt James, who was returning from a knee injury among the goals with three majors each. Trent Moon continued his outstanding early season form with a best on ground game once again and must be a clear leader in the Osmetti medal. Geelong recruit Marc Johnstone also played his best game for the Diorites who must feel great with things flying along in Cat Land. Vetrans Russell Walton and Brett Pattison also turned in strong games and held the defence together.
In the other games the reserves had a good win with Ben Pickett 5 and Daniel Zecca 3 getting among the goals whilst the colts went down by 59 points.

Dual Osmetti medalist, triple premiership player Russell Walton has slipped back into the Diorites league team as though he has never missed a beat. Russell, who took a year off in 2006 and was in retirement mode after years of top line footy where he played over 100 games at the Perth Demons, which included the 1996 reserves premiership, came back to the Diorites and pulled on the boots in their hour of need. Russell's first few games were in defence, however with an injury to regular full forward Matt James he was swung to full forward and proved a match winner with four first half goals and some heavy tackles which helped keep the ball in the Diorites forward line in their 25 point win over the Tigers on Sunday. Not only is Russell a great bonus to welcome back to the club as a player but he is also a dedicated clubman and puts his heart and soul into the Diorites. He is a player that not only receives a lot from football but gives a lot back as well & that dedication shines through with his coaching of our current under 12 team. The talented team have continued their good form under the guiding hand of Rusty and we're sure all the boys know how priveleged they are to have a player of his calibre passing on his knowledge. As the season progresses Walton will only improve as he still goes about his footy in a professional manner in the way he prepares himself and will be a big bonus for the Blue and Whites in 2007.

The Diorites were big winners in all three grades in last nights matches over the Kambalda Eagles at Digger Daws Oval. In the league game the Diorites got away to a crusty start being out scored in the first quarter 5 goals to 1. After a good serve from the coach the Diorites hit their straps in the second stanza with the midfield becoming dominant led by Stevie Dewar, Trent Moon and Chris Brabazon who supplied the forwards with plenty of opportunities. Robbie Hansen (6) and Nobby Mourish (5) completely cut the Eagles defence apart and after a 9 goal to 1 second term continued to apply the pressure all over the ground to run out winners by 76 points. Travis Hart, in for his first game of the year did a stirling job on Kambalda's Benny Andrews which limited his influence for the Eagles.

Diorites Director Geoff Brabazon and player Chris along with Mum and sister, Cathy and Lauren are getting closer to watching son Ryan make his league debut with the Sydney Swans after another outstanding game on the week-end. Below is the match report.

Swans Reserves
The Swans Reserves have thumped a hapless Canberra, formerly Weston Creek, outfit by 236 points at the SCG on Saturday afternoon in slippery conditions.
Heath Grundy had kicked three goals by the first break and was joined on the score sheet by Luke Brennan, Kristin Thornton, Ed Barlow, Simon Phillips, Matthew Laidlaw and Daniel O’Keefe as the Swans led had 56-point quarter time led after kicking nine goals and keeping the Wildcats goalless.
The second term was much the same with the Swans kicking another nine goals but the Wildcats also goaled just before half time.
The Swans spread the scoring around with two goals to Barlow and another eight individual goal scorers. Sam Rowe, Luke Vogels, Thornton, O’Keefe, Phillips and Laidlaw all contributed to the goal spree while Grundy kicked his fourth.
If the 110-point difference at half time seemed unbelievable, the Swans only added to the damage during the third quarter kicking 16 goals in 30 minutes of football. Grundy took his personal tally to seven, Laidlaw took his to six and Brabazon added to his best on ground performance with his only goal.
The last quarter was markedly different from the three prior, with only six goals being scored, and one of those going to the Wildcats.
Thornton, Adam Prior, Irwin and Vogels all scored majors and Grundy kicked his eighth goal in his return to the Reserves after three games in the seniors.
The Swans called on Grundy after Nick Davis was injured in round one despite playing no practice matches in the pre-season, so it was beneficial for his match fitness to run out a full game as opposed to playing off the bench.
The Swans were led to victory by a group of their second-year players, drafted from all over the country.
Brabazon, who played a majority of the game in the midfield and on the wing was drafted from Claremont in Western Australia while Thornton, also a Western Australian, made his presence felt at half-forward and halfback.
Laidlaw and Phillips also contributed to the big score.
Laidlaw, originally from the Oakleigh Chargers in Melbourne, dominated the midfield and forward line booting six goals, while Phillips, a former Sandringham Dragons player, performed well on ball and also made an appearance in the forward line.
Keiren Jack, the only native New South Welshman to be drafted in 2005, was also named as one of the best players, and if he continues to shine may follow in the footsteps of fellow Rams representative players Nick Davis, Craig Bolton, Adam Schneider, Lewis Roberts-Thomson and Paul Bevan.
The Swans’ next game is against Belconnen at Manuka Oval on Saturday 5 May at 2pm. <