Baxter going back
Dual Labrador premiership player, Josh Baxter, is returning to his Queensland footy roots in 2017 when he pulls on a Southport Sharks jumper again. As reported in the Gold Coast Bulletin over the Christmas break, the 2015 Ray Hughson Medalist returns to Southport to continue his 74 game NEAFL career, a club he last played with in 2014. He lives big hole to be filled at the Tigers, after leading their goal kicking in both seasons.
Pre-season on a whole new level
Most football players spend their Christmas break kicking the feet up, having a few beverages and probably getting a little out of shape. Not Tyson Williams. The Maroochydore senior player jumped on his bike and rode all the way to Melbourne. Why? To raise money for beyondblue and awareness around depression. After losing a mate recently to suicide, he felt a need to break the stigma of not talking about your mental health, and he’s done a bloody good job. For more information about his journey or to donate, CLICK HERE.
For mental health support and information, contact:
LIFELINE on 13 11 14,
BEYOND BLUE on 1300 224 636
Lions’ leaders
With the AFLW season ever so close, Brisbane has named their leadership group, and there are a few very familiar faces within. Two-time QWAFL Best and Fairest winner, Emma Zielke, was named the inaugural captain of the team, while Emily Bates, Sabrina Frederick-Traub and 2016 joint QWAFL Best and Fairest winners, Leah Kaslar and Sam Virgo, are all ‘Values Leaders.’ If past QWAFL experiences are anything to go by, the team is in very good hands.
Milford on the move
First it was George Hannaford, now Wilston Grange have landed another big fish this silly season, signing young gun Harry Milford. The 19-year-old has been one of the most exciting up and comers in the QAFL while playing for UQ the last two seasons. His forward pressure, goal sense, and ability to find the footy will make him one to watch in the Gorillas’ forward half in 2017.
Fair résumé
Andrew Cadzow, the new senior coach at Maroochydore is no stranger to Fishermans Road. In his playing days, Cadzow was a duel-premiership player and a best and fairest winner with the Roos, but his résumé doesn’t stop there. He spent 27 years as the AFL Asia Pacific Development Manager, was the World Coach of the Year in 2008, is a level 3 accredited coach, and has spent two years in the Roos’ coaching box as an assistant. You’d be hard pressed to find a candidate more experienced than that.
By Andrew Wiles
Follow @andrewjwiles
