The Piper
Juniors
- Messages
- 1,372
The Forum 7s Radio want to make sure that the new players of the game are being recognised for their wonderful peices and brilliant effort and dedication in joining the game. Here are a few selections you have to read, written by the newbies of F7s...
edabomb
Bluebags
Experience wins matches
Its one of the biggest clichés in modern day sport, experience wins matches. If the statement is so widely used, and considered correct, why is the exodus of experienced players to the United Kingdom greater than ever? The fact is the NRL cannot compete with the financial incentives the UK Super League present, but some players have recently chosen to return to the NRL instead of continuing their career overseas. Examples of these players in 2005 are Matt Adamson, Colin Best, Paul Mellor and Jason Smith. These players have all returned with success, and have once again brought the UK exodus into focus.
Early every season clubs are beginning to think about their retention and activity on the free agent market. Young players are prioritised; you get more value out of them and should have a good shot at re-signing them in two or three seasons. Experienced players are offered a pretty standard contract, no great increase or decrease from their previous contract. Some re-sign, knowing its their last chance at winning a premiership in the toughest competition in the world, the majority head to the UK to cash up, and one final overseas experience before life after football. The problem with this is experience is proven in finals football, the most important stage of all. Name the last rookie half or five-eighth to win a premiership. In the modern day there hasnt been any stand out cases.
Canberra is the major example of experience being invaluable this season. Decimated by departures at the end of 2004, fans were struggling to see where a win would come from. Then the signings of Jason Smith and Matt Adamson were announced. Many were down on the signings, but others saw two quality players that should be very solid first graders. Theyve both definitely exceeded even the most optimistic expectations in 2005. They are examples that well planned recruitment of experience will win games in the NRL, even if players are pushing 2005. Predicted to finish in the bottom three in 2005 by most experts, the Raiders are sitting in sixth nearing the half way mark. Another key to the successful nature of these signings is they are both for one season. The players are clearly providing a bridge season for those youngsters who arent quite ready, but should be in 2006.
On the flip side of this argument is the New Zealand Warriors. They bought experience from Australia in the form of Steve Price and Ruben Wiki. Both of the players were signed to three-year deals, set to conclude when theyre 34. The Warriors were predicted to be a potential top six outfit, but are struggling half way through the season. The fact is Price and Wiki have both been playing very well, but forwards were never this side's greatest weakness. They are struggling mightily in the halves, were Jones, Hohaia, Fien and Ropati just cant seem to find a combination. So while their experienced players have been performing exceptionally well, the side is still struggling. They definitely have time to turn the season round, but initial results suggest this recruitment was not so well planned. Add the fact both players are signed for three seasons and the Warriors have a long term commitment to this set up, so they better hope it comes good or the next few seasons could be bleak.
So, should clubs be signing unproven youngsters over grizzled veterans? The answer clearly comes down to an individual clubs system. While it will not guarantee you wins, if the experience is bought in the right places it can definitely lead to a successful campaign. While youth should remain the target market for recruitment, the old heads will also begin to attract attention after the performances of the UK returnees thus far. Too often players are thrown in the deep end too soon as a result of experience leaving clubs. The mental impacts can last a career. This is why I see experience as especially crucial in the halves of NRL sides, as a bridge for younger players to come in under less pressure. Experience should not be seen as a match winner, but a complimentary piece that can improve the current model if well planned. At the end of 2006 we will all be able to form our own opinions on experience, but at the halfway point the old dogs are teaching the younger players a few new tricks.
742 words including title
Prince Charles
Pirates
Your Jersey of Yesterday
Weve all got one. Buried somewhere deep inside our wardrobe behind the hyper colour t-shirt and other things youd never be seen dead in anymore.
Im talking, of course, about your old club jersey. For some of us it may be your only jersey. Its well faded now bearing sponsorship from companies that are no more. But it holds more memories inside it then any diary or log book could.
I remember the day I bought my first jersey. I had no idea who Household Finance was but I was proud to have their name emblazoned across my chest. I put it on as soon as I got home and proudly rode around the neighbourhood on my bike showing off my newest and proudest asset.
Back then the local kids would always gather at a mates place who lived on a property with a good sized front yard. Teams were picked and as always we had one team of "shirts" and one team of "skins". Today, there was no chance I would be in the skins team the jersey was staying on. The match would kick off and immediately I could hear Ray Warren in my head. "Were underway shirts are running right to left and OH, a big hit by this young kid in Blue and White". This was a pretty normal afternoon where I lived and from this day forward I was always wearing my jersey.
But it isnt just my own exploits that this jersey brings back memories of. It reminds me of days spent out at Belmore watching some of my favourite players go round. Terry Lamb stands out in my mind as the man I used look up to most. Id stand on my seat or clamber up my dads shoulders just to get a better look at him. Im sure Im not the only person who was like this. Every time that I picture myself doing that, sure enough, there I am wearing the same jersey.
Some people may never have had a jersey. They got by with only a scarf or a cap or a flag. In my opinion, they really missed out. At a young age your jersey becomes a force field around you. You put it on and from that moment on you can do nearly anything. As you get older a jersey becomes more like a uniform rather than everyday wear. Just as the shirt and tie goes on for work so too does the jersey go on for a relaxing day at the footy.
One Christmas I received a gift that changed the way I lived from then on. I ripped off the wrapping to find a brand new Bulldogs jersey looking up at me. In hindsight I would say that this was a terribly sad day but unbeknownst to me, this new jersey brought about the end of an era. I couldnt have been happier with the gift I had just received and I promptly yanked the old faded and worn jersey off and pulled on the brand spanking new one. I jumped up and grabbed my football and ran to the backyard to emulate my footballing heroes leaving the old jersey sitting with the wrapping paper that had kept my new jersey a surprise.
I am not sure exactly what happened next. No doubt Mum picked it up and washed it and returned it to my wardrobe. Slowly it was forced from the front of the cupboard to the back as more and more clothes took its old spot, then the day came where I moved out of home but the jersey stayed where it hung.
I never really thought too much about it again, such is the fickleness of youth. But on a recent visit to my parents place I was going through my cupboard and low and behold there it was. It felt just like when you bump into a really old friend from your youth and you both dont know what to say for a moment so much has changed in your lives. I paused for a moment then pulled it off the coat hanger. It smelt and felt like yesterday and I realised it was too important to leave behind again.
Whilst our old jerseys may be too small and old to wear they should always be treasured as they hold so much of our history and reinvigorate memories of days when nothing else, but Rugby League, really mattered.
Word count - 750 words inc title
Mzilikazi
Rhinos
A Mirror to our own failings?
Yet another round of pre-season trials passes and is blighted by another scandal involving young footballers running amok. Predictably this is followed by another outpouring of public outrage at the actions of these highly paid professionals crossing so-called moral boundaries.
It gives me reason to pause and consider the spotlight we place on these young footballers and the expectation we put upon them to be role models". Do we not all know of friends, relatives, children and nephews that indulge in similar behaviour without the full force of societys outraged being pressed upon them? Yet we expect the best of men who have often been pulled directly out of high school, given a pay packet many times that of their peers and an abundance of time with little to occupy them?
We expect something from these men because they have been assigned the roles of "hero" in our society. These days there is a growing shortage of genuine heroes in many of the major institutions of our society. Who is there to inspire, honour and emulate in some of our major institutions?
In politics the debate seems to focus upon the lies told by our leaders, the broken promises and the influence of major companies and interest groups. Where are the Wilberforces that doggedly sought after legislative change in the abolishment of the slave trade?
The institution of the church has been diluted by frequent scandal involving sexual and financial abuse and a growing lack of clarity in its message. Where are the great inspirational leaders such as Jesus Christ, whose teachings have shaped the world for the past 2000 years? Where are the heroes like Luther that railed against the abuses of the church from within or the Wesleys that would inspire large crowds through the power of their oratory and the sacrificial example of their life? Are there any religious leaders of today that will inspire movies in the future?
Even our military heroes are besmirched by fighting wars of dubious distinction. So is it any wonder that weve grown to put on a pedestal those of excellence in the arena of athletic endeavour? The sporting field is one of the few places we can point out to our children to and show them the benefits of discipline, work ethic, team work and the rewards of excellence.
But heres the catch. We want our heroes to be without flaw. Whilst most of us admire Shane Warne for his immense skill in leg spin bowling we generally loathe him as a person (even more so if he wasnt "one of us").
In League we applaud the on field exploits of Mason and Hopoate but we hold no real affection for them because their flaws as human beings have been put in the spotlight for all to see. Yet we probably all have acquaintances that frequent brothels, or go on drinking binges, or who give each others rumps the odd squeeze or, dare I say it, the odd finger poking. Quite a few of us would view their actions as unfortunate or damaging, but generally their actions are written off as "their choice" or part of the rites of passage of growing up as a male.
However, should a group of football players of the same age and demographic indulge in exactly the same form of behaviour theyre exposed to torrents of public hysteria, shock horror and outrage!
Dont get me wrong. Im not trying to excuse the behaviour, particularly if any of the rumours emerging from Coffs Harbour a year ago were in any way true. However, spend time in any university during orientation week and youll hear the messages of hedonism, promiscuity and indulgence. Every weekend youll rub shoulders with patrons in nite clubs drunk or high and will quite likely defend their right to a "good night out"
So why exactly are we shocked when these messages manifest themselves in our young men in the NRL?
I contend that is we who have placed these men on a pedestal because of our need for heroes to emulate. Their sole qualification is the ability to play a high octane and brutal contact sport. Often they are placed there without adequate preparation and support.
The virulence of our reaction betrays the fact that their inevitable fall is reviled only because it holds up a mirror and reflects back to us much of our own society that is decaying and reprehensible.
edabomb
Bluebags
Experience wins matches
Its one of the biggest clichés in modern day sport, experience wins matches. If the statement is so widely used, and considered correct, why is the exodus of experienced players to the United Kingdom greater than ever? The fact is the NRL cannot compete with the financial incentives the UK Super League present, but some players have recently chosen to return to the NRL instead of continuing their career overseas. Examples of these players in 2005 are Matt Adamson, Colin Best, Paul Mellor and Jason Smith. These players have all returned with success, and have once again brought the UK exodus into focus.
Early every season clubs are beginning to think about their retention and activity on the free agent market. Young players are prioritised; you get more value out of them and should have a good shot at re-signing them in two or three seasons. Experienced players are offered a pretty standard contract, no great increase or decrease from their previous contract. Some re-sign, knowing its their last chance at winning a premiership in the toughest competition in the world, the majority head to the UK to cash up, and one final overseas experience before life after football. The problem with this is experience is proven in finals football, the most important stage of all. Name the last rookie half or five-eighth to win a premiership. In the modern day there hasnt been any stand out cases.
Canberra is the major example of experience being invaluable this season. Decimated by departures at the end of 2004, fans were struggling to see where a win would come from. Then the signings of Jason Smith and Matt Adamson were announced. Many were down on the signings, but others saw two quality players that should be very solid first graders. Theyve both definitely exceeded even the most optimistic expectations in 2005. They are examples that well planned recruitment of experience will win games in the NRL, even if players are pushing 2005. Predicted to finish in the bottom three in 2005 by most experts, the Raiders are sitting in sixth nearing the half way mark. Another key to the successful nature of these signings is they are both for one season. The players are clearly providing a bridge season for those youngsters who arent quite ready, but should be in 2006.
On the flip side of this argument is the New Zealand Warriors. They bought experience from Australia in the form of Steve Price and Ruben Wiki. Both of the players were signed to three-year deals, set to conclude when theyre 34. The Warriors were predicted to be a potential top six outfit, but are struggling half way through the season. The fact is Price and Wiki have both been playing very well, but forwards were never this side's greatest weakness. They are struggling mightily in the halves, were Jones, Hohaia, Fien and Ropati just cant seem to find a combination. So while their experienced players have been performing exceptionally well, the side is still struggling. They definitely have time to turn the season round, but initial results suggest this recruitment was not so well planned. Add the fact both players are signed for three seasons and the Warriors have a long term commitment to this set up, so they better hope it comes good or the next few seasons could be bleak.
So, should clubs be signing unproven youngsters over grizzled veterans? The answer clearly comes down to an individual clubs system. While it will not guarantee you wins, if the experience is bought in the right places it can definitely lead to a successful campaign. While youth should remain the target market for recruitment, the old heads will also begin to attract attention after the performances of the UK returnees thus far. Too often players are thrown in the deep end too soon as a result of experience leaving clubs. The mental impacts can last a career. This is why I see experience as especially crucial in the halves of NRL sides, as a bridge for younger players to come in under less pressure. Experience should not be seen as a match winner, but a complimentary piece that can improve the current model if well planned. At the end of 2006 we will all be able to form our own opinions on experience, but at the halfway point the old dogs are teaching the younger players a few new tricks.
742 words including title
Prince Charles
Pirates
Your Jersey of Yesterday
Weve all got one. Buried somewhere deep inside our wardrobe behind the hyper colour t-shirt and other things youd never be seen dead in anymore.
Im talking, of course, about your old club jersey. For some of us it may be your only jersey. Its well faded now bearing sponsorship from companies that are no more. But it holds more memories inside it then any diary or log book could.
I remember the day I bought my first jersey. I had no idea who Household Finance was but I was proud to have their name emblazoned across my chest. I put it on as soon as I got home and proudly rode around the neighbourhood on my bike showing off my newest and proudest asset.
Back then the local kids would always gather at a mates place who lived on a property with a good sized front yard. Teams were picked and as always we had one team of "shirts" and one team of "skins". Today, there was no chance I would be in the skins team the jersey was staying on. The match would kick off and immediately I could hear Ray Warren in my head. "Were underway shirts are running right to left and OH, a big hit by this young kid in Blue and White". This was a pretty normal afternoon where I lived and from this day forward I was always wearing my jersey.
But it isnt just my own exploits that this jersey brings back memories of. It reminds me of days spent out at Belmore watching some of my favourite players go round. Terry Lamb stands out in my mind as the man I used look up to most. Id stand on my seat or clamber up my dads shoulders just to get a better look at him. Im sure Im not the only person who was like this. Every time that I picture myself doing that, sure enough, there I am wearing the same jersey.
Some people may never have had a jersey. They got by with only a scarf or a cap or a flag. In my opinion, they really missed out. At a young age your jersey becomes a force field around you. You put it on and from that moment on you can do nearly anything. As you get older a jersey becomes more like a uniform rather than everyday wear. Just as the shirt and tie goes on for work so too does the jersey go on for a relaxing day at the footy.
One Christmas I received a gift that changed the way I lived from then on. I ripped off the wrapping to find a brand new Bulldogs jersey looking up at me. In hindsight I would say that this was a terribly sad day but unbeknownst to me, this new jersey brought about the end of an era. I couldnt have been happier with the gift I had just received and I promptly yanked the old faded and worn jersey off and pulled on the brand spanking new one. I jumped up and grabbed my football and ran to the backyard to emulate my footballing heroes leaving the old jersey sitting with the wrapping paper that had kept my new jersey a surprise.
I am not sure exactly what happened next. No doubt Mum picked it up and washed it and returned it to my wardrobe. Slowly it was forced from the front of the cupboard to the back as more and more clothes took its old spot, then the day came where I moved out of home but the jersey stayed where it hung.
I never really thought too much about it again, such is the fickleness of youth. But on a recent visit to my parents place I was going through my cupboard and low and behold there it was. It felt just like when you bump into a really old friend from your youth and you both dont know what to say for a moment so much has changed in your lives. I paused for a moment then pulled it off the coat hanger. It smelt and felt like yesterday and I realised it was too important to leave behind again.
Whilst our old jerseys may be too small and old to wear they should always be treasured as they hold so much of our history and reinvigorate memories of days when nothing else, but Rugby League, really mattered.
Word count - 750 words inc title
Mzilikazi
Rhinos
A Mirror to our own failings?
Yet another round of pre-season trials passes and is blighted by another scandal involving young footballers running amok. Predictably this is followed by another outpouring of public outrage at the actions of these highly paid professionals crossing so-called moral boundaries.
It gives me reason to pause and consider the spotlight we place on these young footballers and the expectation we put upon them to be role models". Do we not all know of friends, relatives, children and nephews that indulge in similar behaviour without the full force of societys outraged being pressed upon them? Yet we expect the best of men who have often been pulled directly out of high school, given a pay packet many times that of their peers and an abundance of time with little to occupy them?
We expect something from these men because they have been assigned the roles of "hero" in our society. These days there is a growing shortage of genuine heroes in many of the major institutions of our society. Who is there to inspire, honour and emulate in some of our major institutions?
In politics the debate seems to focus upon the lies told by our leaders, the broken promises and the influence of major companies and interest groups. Where are the Wilberforces that doggedly sought after legislative change in the abolishment of the slave trade?
The institution of the church has been diluted by frequent scandal involving sexual and financial abuse and a growing lack of clarity in its message. Where are the great inspirational leaders such as Jesus Christ, whose teachings have shaped the world for the past 2000 years? Where are the heroes like Luther that railed against the abuses of the church from within or the Wesleys that would inspire large crowds through the power of their oratory and the sacrificial example of their life? Are there any religious leaders of today that will inspire movies in the future?
Even our military heroes are besmirched by fighting wars of dubious distinction. So is it any wonder that weve grown to put on a pedestal those of excellence in the arena of athletic endeavour? The sporting field is one of the few places we can point out to our children to and show them the benefits of discipline, work ethic, team work and the rewards of excellence.
But heres the catch. We want our heroes to be without flaw. Whilst most of us admire Shane Warne for his immense skill in leg spin bowling we generally loathe him as a person (even more so if he wasnt "one of us").
In League we applaud the on field exploits of Mason and Hopoate but we hold no real affection for them because their flaws as human beings have been put in the spotlight for all to see. Yet we probably all have acquaintances that frequent brothels, or go on drinking binges, or who give each others rumps the odd squeeze or, dare I say it, the odd finger poking. Quite a few of us would view their actions as unfortunate or damaging, but generally their actions are written off as "their choice" or part of the rites of passage of growing up as a male.
However, should a group of football players of the same age and demographic indulge in exactly the same form of behaviour theyre exposed to torrents of public hysteria, shock horror and outrage!
Dont get me wrong. Im not trying to excuse the behaviour, particularly if any of the rumours emerging from Coffs Harbour a year ago were in any way true. However, spend time in any university during orientation week and youll hear the messages of hedonism, promiscuity and indulgence. Every weekend youll rub shoulders with patrons in nite clubs drunk or high and will quite likely defend their right to a "good night out"
So why exactly are we shocked when these messages manifest themselves in our young men in the NRL?
I contend that is we who have placed these men on a pedestal because of our need for heroes to emulate. Their sole qualification is the ability to play a high octane and brutal contact sport. Often they are placed there without adequate preparation and support.
The virulence of our reaction betrays the fact that their inevitable fall is reviled only because it holds up a mirror and reflects back to us much of our own society that is decaying and reprehensible.
![[furrycat]](/data/avatars/m/6/6602.jpg?1213416722){kind=avatar}
