The Final Touches - Part 1

Tuesday evening kept vacant to gather the senior group collectively with some final touches to be applied amongst the confines of our current resources. Lions work well in tight spaces, are accustomed to cages - but in four more sleeps the beast is released. To what degree of ferocity is a dream that will be recurring until 11.00am on Saturday. Nightmares are banned.

Phone call to Shanners confirms conditions in cat land are all good and ready to go - tick.

Excitement levels are rising with double figure active heads as the clock ticks past five. Plenty of inward communication from those travlleing distance or in slight delay - always appreciated.

Able to arrange alternative session at the G where the heads of Furious Moose take advantage of conditions and pound down ten straight each - tick.

Lots more balls hit from throwing and bowlers, throwers instructed to keep the back foot active with variations on line and release angle - challenge the batsman to bring out attacking and placement from the back foot. Hands up high, head still, solid contact - tick.

Fletcher improving follow through technique, work in progress already showing improvement. McCormack hustling in hard off the long run, pleasing to see in the flesh - tick.

Darkness descends, Court arrives and volunteers to hit through the murk with Tom Tom guiding ET (as christened by Papa Greg). Football talk dissipating, Cat Shagger seems to have moved on but the love for Max Rooke is deep.

Tucked away in the right pocket, forward reverse routine with a back touch, lob, reverse ball catch thrown in creates shambolic chaos - absolute shite idea coach, put that one back in the drawer - no tick.

Routine throws, Cat Shagger feels the heat in the glove (please at this level should all have gloves by now) from launched missiles at his melon. Break into smaller groups for mixture of nicks and low balls then to finish ground balls in close with direction to different color cones for change of angle and direction. Rapid, purposeful movement with accurate throws on target - tick.

Preparation for selection meeting covered beforehand, committee assemble with Skipper Dick taking the elevated stadium bench view. Positive debate mainly centres around those that have left themselves exposed to doubt from many criteria listed in Selection Policy. Nothing new in this. Can feel the psychic aura of the same discussion type taking place all over the country. Groups of "wise" men huddled in sparse, brick rooms constructing teams, grasping in some cases for reason and hope to justify.

Only four more sleeps and then the Big Show is revealed for performances to be evaluated by all.

How Many Lions Were Active Monday Night?

Disrupted weekend reducing the amount of cricket activity over the last weekend before the start. As we approach the opening of 09/10, seems hard to believe that it has come around so quickly but then one recalls that if the season extends into finals the gap between reduces. Let those who do not pursue success enjoy the extra time off.

Countless hours are spent in consultation, planning, reviewing and hoping before the advent of performances become known. Monday post Cats victory, the rain finally ceasing but the temperature low - how many Lions were active tonight with the purpose of preparing for the weekend?

Day started early to clear as much normal work from the schedule this week to allow space for Lions and focus on game day. Steady stream of incoming contact for extra sessions, sponsor details, Golden Lions, player meetings, specialist coaches schedule, uniforms and the expected "how do you think I am going, where am I at?" enquiries. As usual these emerge from those with obvious doubt, which is understandable when in a new environment.

Work day ended late, lunch still in the guts and the taste of several cups of coffee too many. Driving home through Punt Road chaos feeling flat and listless trying to think what was in the cupboard to cook for dinner as the Domestic Selector is out at birthday celebrations. Ankle still sore but coming better, might have a lie down or read the Sunday sports pages again.

Arrive home, greeted by cricket management disarray still on the desk that had expanded triffid like over recent days. Am sure that it was threatened earlier with intent to be placed in proper order. Heavy sigh. Have enough food ingredients to make a vegetarian omelette - with salami.

Stuff it, back off complacency. Need to clear head and reload, going for the long run. Ankle strapped to hold recovering ligaments in place, Skins on, iPod charged - time to get amongst the breathing and deeply contemplate what the Lions are doing in their own time tonight to prepare for the Cats.

6.52pm - Exit dwelling into gloom (Queens of the Stone Age - "Go With The Flow") slight downhill roll to commence momentum, past gay bath houses along Wellington. Will we play? Will they call the round off? Geelong are good conditions for an away game.

6.58pm - Emerge onto Hoddle St from Langridge (The Clash - "Know Your Rights") traffic still heavy even being builders RDO. First XI, combination of top order when five are capable of walking out first, left hand/right hand, how best to structure? Recent batting form v Cats is good. Is this a worry?

7.06pm - Cross Victoria Parade, past East Melbourne tennis courts (Radio Birdman - "What Gives") with lights ablaze. Which players have been soft during pre season? Who missed sessions? Who is deserving of opportunity first up? Is he able to handle quality opposition?

7.11pm - Around Punt Rd, Brunton Ave corner to MCG steps (Radiohead - "Karma Police") AFL corporate marquee remnants shells only amongst the boot camp groups rotating along the stairs to Gate 6, pound over the foot bridge. Opening bowling combinations, so many strike options, who is best at death? How many can get the ten straight? Who has the best slower ball option?

7.17pm - New football stadium, past Vodafone (Johnny Cash - "Hung My Head") not many puddles around, earth is still thirsty to soak. Has the standard of extra sessions been intense enough? Will we be disadvantaged with outdoors limited? Have we caught enough balls?

7.23pm - Option to go upstairs back to G, bugger it head longer past Press Club - see if George is in (Slayer - "Bloodline") up the bridge across the train tracks. Will Max1 become the main target releasing the pressure on others? Can he handle the attention? Will he thrive on it? How bad are the cut thumbs on the others?

7.27pm - Attack Exhibition Street incline (Pixies - "Gouge Away") dodging random tourists and street drinking louts. Fitness test results, monthly fitness recordings - who was good? Who cheated? Who did not bother? Who is in better condition than this time last year from doing more than directed?

7.36pm - Carlton Gardens, Pompeii still on, charge up the Nicholson hill (Dinosaur Jr - "Out There") like a rampant Moose. Reflect upon the players who made the effort to attend these sessions at the museum in August, who was missing? Why were they missing? Did they make up other sessions for not being there?

7.44pm - Vinnies Food Van @ Fitzroy Flats (NIN - "Bite The Hand That Feeds") with a smaller crowd than normal of recipients. Who has really shown the hunger to improve? Who has rested on past performance? Why is there such a poor effort to communicate? Why can he not see the chance to extend himself to grasp the opportunity?

7.52pm - Smith St TAB (TISM - "I'm Interested In Apathy") with the chain smokers half in and half out. Have we already seen the best there is? Is what we have seen it? Has that been enough to satisfy a career? How can finals involvement not stimulate interest? Can we not afford to ignore the prospects of other players that have hinted at a higher level of determination?

7.56pm - Race up five flights stairs (Metallica - "No Remorse") taking two at a time. Mind is now settled with thoughts on structure justified to confer with Selection Panel tomorrow. Like the Saints, Bulldogs and Pies - there will be tears but we will be stronger for the knowledge.

8.02pm - Assemble vegetables for slicing, onions bring tears too, 11km more in the tank.

How many Lions were active tonight in preparation for the Cats?

History Reclaimed, Cats & Rats

Not a lot of hope was held for the conditions that would greet the Lions for this Sunday, the last before the season where usually the day would be packed full of cricket activities to fine tune. Reflecting on last season where we had turf wicket match simulation and two matches against Box Hill at Elgar Park occurring - no such luck today at all.

An earlier committment for operations had been given to Chairman Tim in helping to clear out the shed. Also to the Black Curator that the covers would come off to allow some air flow to the wicket - in the end both tasks completed to varying degrees of value.

Covers nearly removed successfully before players arrived with one last tug to complete pull over - footing lost, slippage, backwards crash into wet puddle and turf. Lions woollen vest and tracksuit now have another need to be washed again due to clumsy carelessness not physical effort. The Domestic Selector will no doubt be cranky on this additional burden upon the Simpson whitegoods without a shot yet fired in anger.

The random scheduled start had nearly twenty in attendance by half of the nine, off to the shed we head with double doors flung open wide to allow Fireman and Tom Tom assist Chairman in directing activity. Everything out, obvious junk into the wheelies and historical artefacts carried to the Lions change rooms. Amongst the early objects removed were the most recent past glories in the 1st XI Premiership Shield from 01/02 and a club photograph from the Championship season of 61/62, soon to be restored in a position of prominent acknowledgement.

With only a few boxes of non-cricket items remaining on the shelves, Kyle started to move one that appeared to contain assorted crockery when upon the disturbance a plump, furry rodent exploded towards this correspondent landing upon the left shoe. With a reflex, deft movement from the left foot of a sort that Adam Schneider was incapable of executing the day previous, the filthy rat was sent hurtling towards the wall where it scurried away to a new abode.

Family Considine combined to finish sweeping the shed floor of unwanted debris, Skipper Dick given charge to embark upon a warm up run for the group. Fireman with the able support of Mad Dog Ginger set up a conditioning circuit of activities around the rooms under the gaze of the newly exhumed historical photos. Current players in Moose, Tom Tom and Little Guus had past player sponsor images hung from the rail (Note for any new sponsor of interest - Ben Waterman - bwaterman@cricketvictoria.com.au is the Lion to connect with for all valid details) proof that styles of image change quickly within these photos of record.

Group return with Myo Kimbo at the tail, penalty push ups applied. Pairs then sorted for the beginning of Motschall's Masochism with balls, iron and flesh combining in a symphony of exertion under the expert eye of the Fireman. As conditions outdoors deviated between hopeless and just, some players were directed towards hard wicket nets to use conditions as best as possible.

Exertions end with a few repeat efforts at the tail, knowledge implanted of the health services available within the group done. We move onto the main arena confined to boundary limits for handling drills using the daylight available to catch plenty. Tennis racquets hitting soft balls from the bounce, stump nicks - repeat, repeat and repeat, workload level here to be a constant level of increase over October to perfect handling.

Time for the younger end to become exposed to the Max1 / Princess special fielding drill - Man Love Fly Balls. Contact allowed but no holding while the catcher establishes position to catch the ball as it plummets from orbit. Allow a little bit of contact amongst the boys and watch the energy level accelerate, amazing (think to self, how can this be incorporated into batting and bowling drills?). Noise as well, comical giggles from TMc who just needs to get rid of the rapper pants down look very, very, very quickly.

Rain starting to become heavier, race down to bottom ground to cover exposed wicket and bowling machine packed away. Return for more fly balls and stump nicks, send group to nets for own choice of hitting upon which Sando delivers impressive leadership by arranging a net at Topline where several head off to for indoor activities. Little Guus and Charlie Eppes embrace the Man Love Fly Balls drill, LG becoming seriously gymnastic to flex backwards and make one particular impressive catch. Mad Dog Ginger joins in for some reflex off the racquet work and we decide that is a day, go home to get warm and view the post GF celebrations of the Cats.

Lock up a soggy Planet, deposit assorted balls in color and type containers in the rat free shed - cricket season we are now officially on the cusp.

Washed Out, Full On Bayswater Detour With "Dirty Dirk"

Saturating rain, a blessing for so many but a frustration to cricketers, caused the T20 match against the Tigers on Grand Final eve to be abandoned the evening before. The early decision proved to be wise as further downpours surged across the city from early Friday morning that gathered with intensity.

An extremely slow journey along Canterbury Road to Bayswater for a closed session with the senior group, cabin space shared with recovered fast bowler Charlie Eppes freshly sporting a new haircut. Incoming call from a frustrated curator punctutated the football banter with the news that unlikely to expect any turf wicket for Sunday as well.

Increasing rain delayed arrival at Topline (massive apologies, should have allowed for conditions) with group being directed by Moose through warm up process, all accounted for and International Dirk imminent arrival confirmed.

As the batsmen prepared, bowlers identified their own individual stock ball, variations and development deliveries to share the knowledge amongst the pack - all documented for further reference. Furious gave an excellent overview of a variation he recently observed from Andrew McDonald after returning from national duties with fingers rolling down the seam.

First forty minutes structured to have two nets of genuine opening bowlers operating alternate with new balls - six opening bowlers (Fagg, Duckworth, Waterman, Motschall, Winton & Kimberley) who all have first grade wicket taking experience of substance, step back and draw a breath, the depth is real.

Shortly after the start, a designated time out for Skipper Dick to address the bats and Moose the flingers to remind all of the required intensity level of competitiveness. Hostilities engaged and purposeful intent locked in, the battle continued. Steepling bounce from Furious, edges created by the Moose and some body pounders from Winton combined with Dickson and Mash delivering an elevated standard of quality. Free hit instructions were interspersed to enhance the application of control under pressure.

International Dirk completed loosener and commenced his nominated spell of thirty balls (actually turned into around fifty) all combatants continued staying true to the task as Skipper Dick and Mash paired up. Panasonic came into the bowling mix and true to form drew all the attention in his direction with a wicket falling every ball - apparently. Questions were asked as to how many fielders he had in the hotel pool outside the ground. Meanwhile Stockdale, nursing a sliced thumb, was striking so fiercely his willow was in danger of losing timber.

As the bowlers and batters began to change over, Mash released a new tactic - right arm spinning away - delivering leg spin to right handers and off spin to lefties. The wrist spin variations being more than acceptable, positive food for serious thought.

As the end of allotted time drew near, the rain thumping down overhead, Furious took up the cudgels to be the recipient of ten balls designated as free hits to achieve 27 runs. Striking the second ball from Little Guus across the Ferntree Gully Divide gave early momentum, but some sensible control saw teh bowlers just get over the line.

"Dirty Dirk" (description with affection based on the vast number of online worship postings), gave a valuable insight to the bowlers about technical expectations of bowlers from recent experiences as an impact player in the shorter forms of the game - fully appreciated in the depth of detail by all.

Moose would not give in and had Eric return to the pads to finish working on special secret plans for future reference, all done and dusted as news filtered through about the Magpies coach resigning on season eve.

Blessing To The Spiritual Batting Gods

Eagerness infecting Lions all over with double figures active as arrive at 5pm. Development King Phil (DKP) now fully recovered from his recent Sidhu experience in mobile recovery, had opened the gates and stood back from the rush of Lions streaming towards hard wicket central. Early indications of the impending arrival of the Spiritual Batting Gods.

Technician expert Joyce had Panasonic alone to progress the ability of hitting with purpose from around the cranial zone, skim off the carpet with venom those smooth rocks.

Machine getting the complete workover by Tom Tom and Cat Shagger - must be GF week as totally out of normality to observe the Cat Shagger with so much obvious joy in his demeanour. Junior Cat Shagger, now completely out of external excuses for not attending training, with a purpose seen occasionally, working on a new stance set up - always happy to support and oblige when intent is evident. Maybe the presence of AJ Ninja, fresh from the exhilaration of Dilshan walloping of the Yaarpies, inspired him to this standard.

In Sri Lanka, Dilshan has become god like through recent success with little apparent disruption post the Jayasuriya / Attapatu era, but probably overlooked by many is that he is nearly 33 years old having playing his first test in 1999. Testament that to achieve ultimate success can be a long road and never ceasing from reinvention for improvement.

Fireman Motschall joined in as a throwing partner leaving only one net for bowlers allowing all batsmen to be padded up and rotating through all four. Skipper Dick and Panasonic transferring to the No 2 grass surface for an alternate challenge. Gradually the numbers increased and rotations became more frantic with ball sets down to two as Fletcher, CB and Blyth looked the most impressive with consistent striking quality and placement.

Banter around the group of the Fantasy League competition launched, much conjecture at some of the values and team structures. It can be disclosed from the InteractSport Gate Keeper that the performance rating is based upon all of the player performance records that are on MyCricket over every season they have played. Therefore the higher the number, the better the rating etc. So far over twenty entries received including many from non playing connections further proving the interest in the Lions from all over.

Light gone and some of the hitting standard deteriorating to careless slogs, group assembled with Skipper Dick delivering the knowledge that for thorough preparation batsmen need to hit balls from grass surface types as well to present a proper challenge to technique. Warren Ayres became the reference point from personal experience. Not a better example could be given as the all time leading runscorer with 15,277 runs @ 42.43 is on a validated pedestal of substance in this competition.

Senior group went their own way with fielding ring and running to finish, some stayed longer to work on ground fielding drills. All others moving to the mid week version of Shinty Stadium for hand / eye, bat / ball skill development drills. Good enough for Bradman, Chappell and Waugh - then it should be good enough for Lions when listening! (consider this a final spray TMc with all politeness).

Catching pairs complete, power position reviewed with balls dropped at shoulder width and toes pointed slightly inwards to become lower in body position checked. Obi Wan confessed he had not yet researched Star Wars but that he was enjoying reading the "Thingo", progress is slow but we are all patient.

All instructed to gather around the perimeter of Shinty Stadium to reflect upon the willow weapon we are each blessed with as the time for batle draws nearer. Love the willow, be at one with the blade, prepare to spend as much time possible together in a meaningful embrace for the romance of competition is about to arrive. Kneeling before the bat, forehead lightly touching the willow, blessing and mental offerings presented for the good times together ahead.

Basic level of Shinty tricks tonight, ten minutes of continued control without error the expectation. Movement around colored cones, stop ball to stillness, minor concentration distractions as on completion some of the bowlers expressed forearm soreness. The batsman of substance recorded around four errors but comfortable in handling the physical demands. Body contact introduced, back to back with motion direction and then finish with Indian File around the stadium - acknowledgement within several that hand / eye control can be mastered in various forms.

Distracting RSVP In Shinty Stadium

A svelte Cat Shagger partnered with Tom Tom admirably striding fartlek laps of No 2 after an earlier hit with Moose before the others arrived. Extras are alive amongst the Lions, please take note young cubs if the determination to bridge the gap is genuine.

Little Guus, AJ Ninja and Mad Dog Ginger were also early arrivals with the afternoon light fading under heavy, threatening clouds that did deliver serious dampness later in the night. No 2 was covered due to the impending wet, making the intended centre wicket become a nets only affair.

Machine out and whirring, left armer position (note to future users, please never set machine up to feed direct from middle, always choose a side of the wicket for reality) bang on middle line and fair length with the direction to display some creative attacking shots but restrain from aerial elevation. AJ Ninja resembled more of a twister contestant when applying the paddle sweep looking nothing like Dilshan Scoop, Duck Paddle, Ramp etc but continued practice will get somewhere to compliment his skills of balance and stillness.

Throw downs in the other nets, Furious and Charlie Eppes the only rapid leather flingers present and active as the light quickly removed itself from our galaxy. Hitting done the Lions assembled in Shinty Stadium, a reminder for bats required as Cat Shagger delivered the first distraction with his recent RSVP experience unfolding into live date reality.

Shinty Stadium, the arena of self concentration that started with individual control and balance drills progressing into the competitive, distraction (no touch, no body contact allowed) phase. Skipper D and Furious were early exits who then became Peter Hore's to the remaining combatants with the numbers slowly dwindling eventually leaving Tom Tom, Cat Shagger and Little Guus as the triple dead heat victors . Some small question mark about Little Guus actually remaining within the confines still exist - to be referred to the stewards.

Ring distance throwing in motion, 3 man short catching repeats - session done with Skipper D giving the Vermont FC re-engineering tale that resulted in a premiership last weekend, congratulations to Bardo on sticking with it.

Furious remained for extra fly balls to further refine hand position of preference with a brilliant black sky as the orbital backing during this quiet time and space, continuing beyond expected to "Take The 10".

Rotating Man Scrum, Star Wars UOM & Always Have Ice

Roller absence and extra rain over Thursday inflicted more modification to schedule .... but. Why is it that on a weekday the arising from slumber can be a chore but to bounce from the rest factory before 7.00am on a Saturday is easy? A reasonable indication as to where the priorities of the mind are set at the moment and the excitement that is created by the Lions.

Cruising into the Planet driveway, the soothing sounds of ABC Classic FM "The Classic 100 Symphony" with number 12, Mozart Symphony 41 in C roaring from the Subaru sound system, complete calmness descends as the sky is clear with sunshine beaming. Open up the gate, shed, rooms etc, transfer the kit and by the time arrived at bottom nets, several early starters have arrived through the gate.

Twenty senior Lions fumble through a football drill that creates penalty push ups from handling errors under no pressure, complete contrast to the Saints / Bulldogs attrition last night, early harshness from the Moose. Cricket balls come out as pairs work through the forward / reverse multi ball drills, inserting golf balls and tennis balls for complexity. Skipper Dickson calls to finish with a race, good call. Only problem that the Dickson and Max1 combination were unable to sort the catching part out finishing tailed off. Dampness on the surface still slippery but starting to lift, some with dirt on clean training gear, a sign of purposeful intent.

First phase, advanced version of boundary drill from an earlier (night) session with some extra running involved and designated start points. Instructions explained with diagrams, groups claim gear (orange stump, brown stump, cones, balls, glove) to set up from pitch facing outwards to boundary. Settling time allowed for FLOW and then regroup to review, reload and check technical aspects. Resume with proper level of intent established immediatetly, Furious Fagg moving with swiftness in pursuit while the keepers stick together working hard to upstage the outfielders.

Change requirement to boundary cut across then interspersed with fly balls using tennis balls this time. Creativeness emerged as direction to start from cluster morphed into rotating man scrum before called to catch the ball, Furious again excelling with poise and balance before finishing with cut off repeats.

Panasonic called for attention as DC had popped the left shoulder out while diving and was in obvious discomfort. Thankfully Alycia was arranged to be there for a debrief on the health status, off to a flying start with the first patient lodged in Jags cubby hole before she had even started the knowledge gathering task. Ice obtained from local BP, later discovered dilapidated state of freezer, DC strapped up and recovering.

Senior group moves into net session while rest of group gathers at The Manningham Hotel (Lions Sponsor) in the newly renovated Lions Den all set up ready by Sam our wonderful host. Project images onto the big wall, watch Angus bowling motion in twelve feet tall dimensions, brilliant for fully identifying areas to address. Fully utilise the massive projection scale to cover video of Tom, Josh, Daniel and use Kimbo as an example for balance alignment for all to learn from. Group acknowledge that as we all have mobile phone with video function, no reason to not have vision of bowling or batting to work on at any stage.

Presentation delivered on preparation, agents of change, match day expectations - a solid run down of all things that will confront us from now on to ensure focus is not on "where you start" but "where we finish".

Return to the planet, Max1 remains behind to help with coaching batting skills for younger Lions (well received, again) as warm up starts and attempt at advanced boundary drill. Difference in skill level between groups is vast with erratic being a fair description - must improve, be patient. Call in to review instructions, distance between players and communication the important element. Orange stumps end to end like light sabres a good indication of measurement needed, Dancey the demonstration partner where it is uncovered that the lad has never seen Star Wars or Return of the Jedi. Pure innocence with no awareness of either, for a short moment seems stranger than the concept of a galaxy far, far away.

Net session begins, take advantage of conditions while still good to check movement and motion for fly balls to new comers. Generally good hands that cover most challenges presented, pleased here until roll ankle damaging ligaments while jumping for throw gone horribly wrong (note to self, let them go, offender can chase and retrieve). Hobble around in self dismay with grim face and dismiss group back into nets.

Gather Josh to refine run up requirements, start from basics to determine measurements - 2.2 / 8.8 / 16.6 - become starting points after the 7 step check completed and FLOW is recognised. Also learn the importance of knowing which foot to start with (the right), does not always come naturally.

Rain starting to become heavier, kit packed up and group done. Lock up main rooms and gladly find left over ice in sink, dump into bucket and insert left ankle to start rehab on drive home. Overall not ideal that no turf competitive session but the general feeling as confirmed with several afternoon conversations, progress does appear to be of substance.

Footnote: Eldest son played in first ever football grand final this morning - was not there to watch. As Lions we all make sacrifices at times, many of a different kind.

Tight Spaces With Helmets On

Due to the urgent love and care needed to revive the planet surface, the situation presented to challenge our skills in tight spaces being confined to the small far forward pocket area. Session planned accordingly for the constraints with a few variations - and helmets on.

Earlier, before all of this commenced, technical batting group with Brendan Joyce took place on the hard wicket space. Bowling Machine produced again, works a treat once setting is sorted but some gentle love would not go astray. As Dickson, Bremner and Vardi honed technical aspects on the front foot under the guidance of the Lion great, early arrivers gathered around to observe with in some cases activity self starting. Development King Phil (DKP) took the advantage of Sando's throwing arm as he had not remembered that cricket kit is needed for training, he won't forget or next time the captain will revoke the pardon for a penalty.

With the light fading, some Lions elders bid greetings and welcome to the premiership captain while the remainder of the group moved back to main area where uniforms were available for purchase and instructions issued - rubbers, bats and helmets. Oh, and Kyle forgot to pick up his baseball glove from down bottom, a good thing that we look out for each other.

Group assembles with the tight space theme explained - obviously expected the comment from Panasonic of preference for being in a tight space, just did not expect the greater than 7 second delay. Fagg shook head bewildered, helmets on Lions, away we go.

Multi ball motion drill to complete warm up then catching in pairs from bat. Honestly, in a lot of cases skills are lesser than expected with far too many balls running loose and bodies not flowing into correct position, could be due to the confines of space - however must fix this. Kyle needed to go to the toilet.

Pairs became fours, more work off the willow face and edge with some improvement before finishing with mad triangle drill to work the catcher over a minute of sustained effort. At the high end, excellent - even with the helmets still on creating claustrophobic effect of difference. Completed with demonstration of calmness by CB - has the skills to watch ball close and take with comfort, not a snatch and grab motion - learn young Lions, learn.

Gear packed, session done - Kyle forgot his baseball glove again - rooms now all clean and sorted, starting to feel like our space again at the planet. Connect to several new players to review aspirations and committment, don't just come down for a look.

With some luck, mechanical issues will be sorted in the morning and we will have turf on the weekend - blazing sunlight expected.

Indian File, Brady Returns, Indoors Closed

Cracking weather appears to now be truly upon us as so many sports seasons converge at once. Whipping jockeys, abusive Serena allows Clijsters to triumph, Federer loses a major to Del Potro and Tom Brady returns to the New England Patriots - a mixed day for champions of all kinds, sizes, shape and tragedy. Lions from season last are well aware of this bloggers unabashed appreciation for the Patriots organization and what they have achieved since 2001 after being the worst football team in the NFL.

Brady, the returning superstar QB who wrecked his knee in the first round of 2008, not only got through the match against the Bills unscathed but had to endure continual frustration and denial against a lesser ranked opponent. Down 24-13 with less than three minutes to play, Brady had controlled more than 65% of the game at that time practically doubling the output of his opponent. Instinctively, with the slightest error from a fumble giving a glimmer of clarity he was able to execute two touchdowns to win the game 24-25, strength through belief - amazing.

Eric took charge of the Tan running group and controlled the 13 heads (like a hydra, it is growing) through an Indian File drill up the Anderson Street hill (sadist, need to see more) and then a return to the Bowl hill.

Meanwhile captain Dickson joined the coach in Surrey Hills for the inaugural meeting of the Lions Cricket Management Committee chaired by Jeff Harvey. To be in the same space as Harvey, Lee Watts and George Murray delivers confidence in the forces that are building, to progress recent improvements to ensure that they are of genuine, ongoing substance.

“The Cricket Management Committee of the Fitzroy Doncaster Cricket Club will strive to create conditions to allow the players to reach their full potential and to establish a long term team culture of success for the benefit of the club”.

A starting point of solidarity, more to come on this next Wednesday.

Off to the G, some of the bigger bodies with Winton and McQuinn involved to add extra firepower with Duckworth able to resume from a limited run up approach. Purpose of the session for the batters to improve the intent to run after the shot, get out of the blocks quicker, no more time for strolling. Suggestion contribution for bowler taking the stumps acknowledged and to be introduced - always enjoy hearing new concepts from thinking cricketers, learning is everywhere.

Angry pills (Little Guus, Panasonic, Fireman) seem to be out in some cases, maybe a product of the weekend competition where the recognition has arrived that the challenge for spots is on or the duress of Tan flogging? Stockdale strikes straight with venom, scattering bowlers while Max1 endures the frustration of one ball sets to challenge the ability of handling disruption - learning is everwhere.

Furious Fagg continues to build validated momentum with determined control of the refined action, the occasional bouncer slipped in to challenge the willow wielder, encouraging.

Thus ends the last scheduled indoor session for this period of time, everything moves outdoors (thankfully) to our spiritual home, it feels as though the timing is about right but all will be unveiled soon enough as true exposure is nearly upon us.

Bowling Machine Revived & Sidhu The Cab Driver

Unfortunately with the turf on the second oval at the Planet not being as advanced due to a lack of much needed sunlight in recent times, planned practice match against Oakleigh was shelved. The players involved were given the chance to have a condensed session where again we took the opportunity of hitting as many balls as possible.

Bowling Machine was exhumed from the locked, hidden cupboard and kicked into action immediately upon connecting to mains power. Some minor love is needed but it did appreciate the chance to come out of the closet, even with dark clouds overhead. Chairman Tim in full control early doors, mentally checking on the required maintenance and access needed to have this in regular use.

Son of Chairman was the recipient of a significant number of balls from the machine (350 is a number heard) and it must have been during this period of discovering his flow that he was able to reflect upon knowledge from last season in recalling the story about Jean-Dominique Bauby who suffered from lock-in syndrome (paralysyis) but was able to write a book through the blinking of his left eye - The Diving Bell &The Butterfly. It is in these moments that pleasure is gained from the evidence that some are accepting influence and retaining.

Response, balance and throwing accuracy drills completed on a damp surface - "all get padded up" - the call that players just love to hear.

For the next hour the group was able to work through drills that contained a series of combinations with short ball at body, feet to spin through off and front foot placement. By the end, each of the Lions had another hundred plus balls invested in skill development. Not quite as valuable as match practice but still very useful. Baxter and ex-Demon, Barry demonstrating a high quality of skill in handling the short ball with quality striking power.

Driving away from the session as Motschall and Kimberley remained for extra bowling, calls made to Phil for progress report from the match at Templestowe with no joy in connecting, messages left.

As the "domestic selector" was checking features on the new phone, she accidentally called Phil yet again and a voice answered that definitely did not sound like the returned Lion. After a brief moment of awkward introduction that went like;

"Who are you?" - "No, who are you?" - "Where is Phil?" - "Who is Phil?" (Please insert sub continental accent where appropriate).

Sidhu the cab driver from Mulgrave clarified the confusion by informing that the phone had been accidentally left in his cab the previous evening and the battery was running low. Required details were then swapped and information passed to Phil by email and carrier pigeon to finalise the reclaim process.

Furious Impalers Collide @ Mooroopna

"Unleash the beasts" was the collective choice of the coaching staff with the Lions leaders in approval. To take advantage of forecast warm weather and the expectation of good turf conditions in the north, the Lions went to Mooroopna where the Impalers and Furious would do battle.

Departing Planet Schramms by bus, "Tom Tom" Kellar with able on board assistance navigated the group with success along the Hume and Goulburn Valley Highways, joining the others who had travelled directly by car. Always amusing when going on a country jaunt as to the absolute reliance upon mobile and satellite communication methods to arrive at a destination - even as some sat in the car park on the opposite side of the ground at Mooroopna pondering how to get to the other side.

Prior to the match start, Captain Dickson and Waterman met with coach to inspect the conditions at Deakin Reserve Shepparton as being suitable for a day/night match as our country round choice in January. All satisifed and decision made, Chairman Tim to now finalise the formalities as needed.

Arrive at Mooroopna Recreation Reserve, sky is blue and atmosphere warm - 23 players all accounted for (22 playing plus injured "Charlie Eppes" Duckworth in support role doing justice with recording to the character of his alter ego). Dickson calls correct and sends Furious into bat - wicket even, a little bit of give on top but should be fair for the day.

Furious suffer a late order collapse from 5/165 to be all out for 180 as Almatrah with 3/3 plus a run out cleans up the end from the point that McCormack trapped Sheehan in front for 73. Apart from Mad Dog Ginger, all the bats made some sort of start by way of runs or balls faced, a few too many early on hitting in the air close to the wicket. Impalers did themselves no justice in putting down at least six catches from the in wicket area.

As expected, the spinners were a factor when accurate proving that it is essential to have them all on target from the start - 1/64 from 18 overs the combined effort from Spoon & Fletch as they went straight through the middle period. Dickson allowed himself five overs with a strong breeze and demonstrated good control and bounce, skills here will be a welcome addition to the structure.

A hearty lunch consumed and the application of serious sun block levels as the sun kicked into genuine burn mode, was time for the real big boys of Furious to take the new Kooka. Fagg roared in from the north, the complimentary conditions allowing the quick to let the body flow with power into the crease generating steepling bounce pushing Little Guus onto the back shoe. The Greek Prince made a back foot error to chop Fagg on to the timber and depart while looking so strong when pressing forward.

Brenmner joined Dickson to rebuild the innings during an intense period, where Stockdale and Huntley were called upon to dry up the scoring options during the power play after young mediums in Sherriff and McQuinn could not quite get it right in their first spell. The chase faltered mid stream as wickets fell when batsmen were set, Court and Almatrah both getting a start but not finishing.

Cashen endured a testing over from Fagg to give support in an unbeaten partnership with Stewart, finding some gaps to leg that allowed the rate to stay in check, the total overhauled. Promising signs by Sherriff with a strong action through the crease and Stockdale's first decent spell of overs without discomfort giving the Lions attack further variation.

The benefit of hot conditions, a good wicket, comnfortable surroundings and solid efforts to crack the minute in the Lions 300 - plenty of goodness has come from the trip.

Football Yawn, Lions Everywhere, Activity Frenzy

Tuesday arrives with another week of football commentary revolving around events and players that will not have an impact on the remainder of the season. Last week Hawthorn, Lloyd ad nauseum and this week Carlton, Judd, McVeigh - when will the scribes balance the ledger and give fair air to the quality of the teams still in the contest? Is probably easier to extract a story from those that have fallen. And to the eyewitness university student that was able to provide the tabloids a forensic analysis of the Carlton drinks on Monday in all its boring detail - please get a life and why were you not in class or studying at the time? Another future social genius on the way!

Enough of the football ranting ramble, let us move to more exciting Lions business where Spring has turned but the nights are chill and damp with players involved in many activities across the city today.

At the MCG during the afternoon, Kimberley and Sherriff were flinging their finest seaming deliveries towards Hodge, McDonald, Quiney et al as the Bushrangers finalise indoor preparations for match day activity starting this weekend. Back to back T20 matches with Mash and Maxwell selected to be played at Xavier and a squad to then be selected for Lismore next week.

Dickson and Bremner moved indoors with Brendan Joyce to progress the finer arts of batsmanship under pressure and leadership. Feedback from all suggests that another quality factor in preparation is now in action.

The Tan running group, another virgin arrival in Watson (must be a Gippsland thing of having limited Tan awareness when in the city) with quality efforts by Ghasperidis and Panasonic who thought they may not arrive due to other events but were able to attend.
Different cycle of activities tonight with the presence of a fitness class encouraging the desire to complete several sets of bar pull ups instead of stretching, slow hold being a favourite.

Off to the Bowl Hill, another fitness class on stage allowing us to challenge focus and point concentration skills while running up the hill backwards. Disappointing nobody is willing to recall their favoured carol but we have a feeling that there are plenty of secret Silent Night fans. More incline work involving lunges and strides before finishing with a series of flat 150's, recovery half lap and finishing burst where Campbell proved that his fitness improvement is genuine. Move to the G with an interest to see this group perform as the drills were designed for heavy legs.

Arrive at the G for Cat Night - Demons finishing before us and the Tigers sharing our session, resplendent in their new uniforms, like what is coming for the Lions. Decide bowlers to bat first with Charlie Eppes (Duckworth) limited in his ability due to injury, however assisted the group by getting playing shirt sizes in the new style sorted. Change room banter with Max1 while he devours a pathetic attempt at nutrition - "I drove to Victoria Street for this" - showing ineptitude at location awareness as there are at least forty better options in a closer proximity than the contents of the paper bag.

Session begins, footballs out with lateral movement around player in the middle, remember to keep control of the ball and then baulk D Vardi / Kyle, points though for creative attempts. As the bowlers batted, Brem took control of the surplus with a ten minute power surge in the upstairs gym area to get the blood rapidly flowing.

Extra bowlers joined the session to allow all batters to work for the middle 45 mins and continually rotate amongst the nets with the chance to start preparing with minds directd towards role and technical improvments. A much improved standard was the outcome although as we ended with a two ball set, off side / leg side strike from balls thrown at middle a gentle reminder about effort and impact needed to be inserted.

Information distributed for Impalers v Furious competitive event this Saturday at Mooroopna led by Dickson and Waterman, the next post will carry team details and a preview of what lies ahead this Saturday along with the Oakleigh and Templestowe games on Sunday.

Footy Finals Knowledge, Spin Theory & One More Sleep

Top dressing complete at the planet today, rendering ground unable for use for a short period of time but it does look a cracker already - Blackers is the man to deliver an even greater superior standard than before. Schramms 1 came home hard under the whip last year and would expect to rank higher than 14th in 09/10.

Opened with video highlights on the big screen of Lionel Messi top 10 goals from last season for Barcelona. An athlete who is a master craftsman in his sport and very similar in size to Sachin Tendulkar. The comment elements in their skills - balance, control of body, poise and the ability to execute skill under pressure as needed.

Balls gathered, off to the Aths track at a reasonable clip and upon arrival lights are with us and a dry car park giving option B oxygen. Break into four groups with each to complete three laps and given a match of the round to discuss the key points on the result. Kellar resplendent in Kevin Murray memorial sweat shirt dissected the Saints v Pies encounter after some early disinterest from an emerging bowler that deemed a correctional burst - seems that his mind was still at the Richmond train station. This sorted, then all other games commented upon with the consensus being that in finals the good players performed and the losers were unable to execute skills under pressure.

Car park for ball work and then using wooden posts as distraction objects, creativeness abounds within the Exotic Mauritian (a little light on for lip fluff at the moment) when paired with a wild beast. Return to the planet via the Doncaster Road Hotel direction, allowing the rabbits to blast ahead if the mood felt with many accepting the invitation to rocket home.

Finished with spin video of Warne the Great displaying his full range of skills of the wrist spin variety and then Gavin Robertson with the doorknobs.

Group departed as the weekend video work was delivered by the generous EP, the chance to view on the big screen to good to ignore. Leg angles, hips alignment, head position, load up arm and follow through all supportively reviewed by the bowlers - another quality step in our progress achieved.

One more sleep then Brendan Anthony Joyce returns in a support capacity - 7442 runs, dual premiership player, premiership captain, club season runs record holder - with this type of quality returning further strengthening the Lions Roar.

Punching, Jabbing, Princess, Man Love & Barry

A light weekend on the calendar to allow a break from the preparation structure with a range of other activities, including the all important bonding for the first weekend of the football (AFL) finals and also international football weekend (South Korea 3 - Australia 1, sloppy Socceroos).

As the boxing group return from the warm up run through the footpaths of Preston and enter the Northside Gym, Steve barks out the instructions, a short and powerful figure who stalks the floorboards of with determination and purpose.

"Quick feet, faster, faster - hands up" in a manner part way between drill sergeant and sadist, the rhythmic sound of pounding feet drumming in unison. Lions then move to positions around the different bags with punches of varying power hitting the padding signalling the start of the twelve rounds circuit. Thin Lizzy crank up the riff on a radio dial that is probably araldited to the previous century, but as the clock slowly ticks over the 180 seconds in a round, the combatants appear blissfully unaware of the historic beats and jangles.

Buzzer sounds for round end, hit the ground for push ups and move to the next station. Session ends with chase the Ash rabbit around the bags, medicine ball carry above the head, stretch and done. Skipper Dickson takes command of the floor - outlines the 1 Day Game Plan and the individual roles of each player expected.

As this occurred, at Schramms the Lions Executive Visual Producer arranged several of the young charges to have their bowling actions recorded from front on to check technique progression and review any minor flaws that may need attention in the final phase of skill preparation. Kimberley, Watson, Ingram, McQuinn, Considine, Vardi (D) & Sherriff (big wraps from Saker here) represented the rapid leather flingers with the wily economical Wotherspoon and wristy Stewart (F) being the spinners.

Back to the other side of town, Max1 and the Greek Princess joined coach for some extra fielding drills - a solid 40 minute work out at Yarra Bend in front of the Maxwell / Sutherland Pavilion watched by an audience of several waiting for the bus to take them to a local soccer match. Scooting between cones, catching nicks, grounders and flies before finishing with some man love fly balls to take the pressure off a broken finger nail - fingers never get hurt when the ball is caught!

Later in the day, Lions gathered at Salty Dog to bond further over football (Cats & Lions win - good omen for the feline species) and beverages with the Jag covering the corner position - eyes moist with pride as the mind ticked over to what could lie ahead. Several stories will emerge over the event and post activities with Barry and MC Mad Dog Ginger along with TMcQ showing an incredible burst of pace between train stations - if only we can get that on You Tube.

Tan Virgins & Sloppy G

Stockdale & Robertson who are not unlike in stature and character, also both bowl with the creative arm, eagerly joined the pre training running group at the Tan and self nominated their virginity for this location. Panasonic nearly had to apply blinkers to focus on running straight with the plethora of optical delights gathered en masse, it must be spring!

Waterman joined as an optional extra (extra sessions are allowed Lions, never will be criticised for doing more), Daniel Vardi and Huntley partaking gave the group a fresh glow. Belongings deposited in the Gippsland Charger, the Exotic Mauritian made a minor detour to support a wounded fetlock and the group headed off in the uphill direction.

Circuit complete, some banter about the size of the Bowl again in real life (not Carols by Candlelight - how romantic for a young Lion), stretch and incline strides - off to the sprints. Difference this session for the incline effort phase was the "hit the bin and accelerate for two trees" to resemble a zone situation under duress - some success here finishing with the downhill flyers.

Off to the G, other side of the room this week with smaller numbers of Lions. Stories about the recent difficulty of Max1 consuming nutrition in the presence of others filtered through the dressing room, the price of airfares to Adelaide v train travel and general man stink.

Net sessions started strongly enough with new Kookas shining bright white in the well illuminated surrounds and one net consisting of continued rotations of two ball sets.

However fatigue did start to set in early, not unexpected given recent load, and the standard diminished rather rapidly towards the end of the first hour. A massive thump a la Waugh style to leg by the Greek off Moose and the laconic Baseballer gaining some reasonable rhythm probably the highlights worthy of mention. A period of rest ahead to sort out some body management issues and it should be soon that turf is the combat zone.

The Fartlek Of Honesty - August Review, September Preview

What a wonderful feeling that comes over a club in preparation when the day arrives that signals the timeline shift between codes, removing distractions from the final phase of becoming ready for actual contest.

While squawkback goes into armchair frenzy with the next episode of the vicious & violent onfield altercation (from last check, very few have suffered any damage of permanent consequence ie: Ben Cousins flew to play in Perth even Brent Staker got up from the Barry Hall hit) a pride of Lions numbering nearly forty came to train in another weather disrupted session.

Plenty of visuals to engage the group, the 200 metre world record run by Usain Bolt in Berlin followed by the previously mentioned Shinty vision - learn to love our bats, understand what it can do and master the control - a challenge to all Lions.

Onto the arena for ball skills - figure five and then the multi ball motion around your partner while keeping the ball(s) active - all performed under close, constant pressure. Ash off to the side with some close skills work in pairs.

Captain Dickson led the running section, a five lap fartlek drill, many attacking the task with a ferocious intensity determined to show first hand the benefits of workload completed when given a challenge.

Presentation delivered to the group for honest reflection on where we all are at, what lies ahead and what is need to be completed over September for the Lions to begin the pursuit of success. No excuses, no unknowns, no misunderstandings.