Cloke is Lynch's No.1 fan

Collingwood recruit Quinten Lynch works up a sweat in pre-season training. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

TRAVIS Cloke has lots to be excited about.

With last year's contract circus behind him, the Collingwood spearhead will enter 2013 with a clear mind and niggle-free.

But there's something else that is giving the Magpies' chief goalkicker plenty to smile about as the club stepped up its pre-season with a solid one-hour match simulation session yesterday.

The man who replaced Chris Dawes as Cloke's new key forward partner, Quinten Lynch, has been one of the standouts of Collingwood's summer.

While the 30-year-old may not have attracted as much pre-season hype as some of the other club's big-name recruits, the West Coast premiership forward's physical game style is set to bring an imposing and versatile edge to the Pies' forward setup.

Cloke, who ranked No.1 in the AFL for contested marks last season, yesterday warmly welcomed the aerial support Lynch is poised to provide.

"He's going to help us out and and obviously 'Jolls' (Darren Jolly) and 'Huddo' (Ben Hudson) in the ruck, so he's a massive plus for the team and also myself," Cloke said.

"I'm looking forward to working with him. He's an amazing (physical) specimen and he's a very big man and he can run all day, so it's great.

"I got to know him quite well the last couple of months, he's a fantastic man and a lovely family man."

Adding to their Magpies' delight, fellow free agent Clinton Young, from Hawthorn, joined in on the match simulation after spending much of the summer carefully managing his recovery from foot surgery.

Jordan Russell and Ben Hudson also impressed in the full-ground workout at Victoria Park, adding vital playing depth to the club's premiership tilt.

Picture gallery: Collingwood family day

After booting 33 goals mainly playing deep forward for West Coast last year, Lynch yesterday said he was relishing the move to the Westpac Centre.

" I just feel there's a hunger in this group at the moment to succeed and it's really exciting for me," Lynch said.

"I've obviously come in as a tall forward to help Clokey out up there and that's exciting and no doubt I'll have a little bit of a run through the ruck if needed, so there are two good roles there," he said.

"These boys made the prelim final last year and hopefully I've come over here and we can go one better."

Cloke, who kicked 59 goals last year, downplayed the distraction caused by his contract saga, which looms for Hawthorn and its superstar Lance Franklin this season.

"I spoke to Bucks and said earlier in the year: 'Mate, this is what I want to do and he knew the whole way along what was happening'," Cloke said yesterday.

"And I had faith in him and he had faith in me, so we knew what was happening, it was just a matter of getting pen to paper."

These boys made the prelim final last year and hopefully I've come over here and we can go one better.

Midfield dynamos Scott Pendlebury and Dane Swan continued their impressive build-up to the season yesterday as Dale Thomas and Dayne Beams watched the match practice from the sidelines.

Beams, whose enjoyed a career-best year last season winning his first Copeland Trophy, said he had overcome a few niggles in the pre-season.

"(I've had) a couple of little hiccups along the way, but it has probably been one of my better pre-seasons," Beams said.

Luke Ball and Lachy Keeffe continue to make solid progress in their comeback from knee reconstructions, training away from the main group yesterday.

Andrew Krakouer, who had a quick-fix type of knee surgery to repair his ruptured ACL, also looked in excellent touch with a bag of goals deep forward.

Summer Barometer: Magpies injury, training latest

Hoping for a better run of injury luck in 2013, coach Nathan Buckley is expecting more welcome headaches picking the Pies' best 22 this season.

"The great thing we have got is we have competition for spots, so we'll spend the next two or thee weeks in practice matches and through the early part of the NAB Cup working out who is going to be putting their hand up to play senior footy early in the first couple of rounds," Buckley said.

"We've probably got 30-35 blokes that we're trying to squeeze into 22.

"You will be rewarded in selection for your efforts."

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Dermie backs Franklin delay

Lance Franklin tells Hawthorn he will not discuss a new deal until the end of the year, sparking fears at the Hawks that he may walk.

Lance Franklin celebrates a goal during the 2012 Grand Final. Picture: David Caird Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN legend Dermott Brereton says Lance Franklin has made the right move in delaying contract talks to get the best financial deal from the club.

The Herald Sun yesterday revealed Franklin's management had put off talks on a new contract until the end of the season, stunning Hawks officials who were hopeful of finalising the matter before Round 1.

Fremantle, in Franklin's home state of Western Australia, is seen to be in the best position to poach one of the game's biggest stars, with space in the Dockers' salary cap to pay the forward more than $1 million a year.

Brereton conceded the contract saga would likely create an ongoing distraction for Franklin and the Hawks, and said the move would cost the club in the vicinity of an extra $100,000 in its salary cap.

But Brereton, a five-time Hawthorn premiership forward, tipped Franklin to stay and was adamant the 25-year-old was entitled to hold off to get more money.

"If I was Buddy's manager, and this is 'Pickers' (Liam Pickering) we are talking about, I would advise him not to sign also," Brereton told the Sunday Herald Sun.

"It's like the Travis Cloke situation. You want to stay at the club, you love the club and 95 per cent you are going to stay at the club, but you want to maximise your earnings."

Pickering said Franklin, a three-time All-Australian who will become a restricted free agent at the end of the year, wanted to halt contract negotiations to concentrate on his football.

But Brereton said media scrutiny could disrupt the player and his club.

"It's not going to benefit him by saying, 'I just want to concentrate on my football'," he said.

"They (media) will keep asking him about it and every time you pull open the paper, it will distract him.

"So it is not to allow him to play better footy, it (the management tactic) is (intended) to maximise his earnings, but you know what, he's got that right."

Summer Barometer: Track the Hawks' pre-season here

Hawthorn's premiership odds eased from $4 to $4.50 with Betstar in the wake of the Franklin revelation.

Brereton tipped the athletic goalkicker to remain at Waverley Park beyond 2013, but said the Hawks would have to pay more than they initially expected.

"I would guarantee you this time next year, Buddy will be in pre-season with Hawthorn, but it is going to cost them probably 5-10 per cent more than they envisaged," he said.

"There is always a threat (of Franklin leaving) and always a possibility but I think they will get over the line."

Will Buddy be the next Gary Ablett?

The Hawks are understood to be paying near 100 per cent of their salary cap, making it difficult to accommodate the 196cm powerhouse's beefed-up contract and keep their up-and-coming youngsters.

"They do have a list at the top end which is ageing," Brereton said.

"They have got some 28-year-olds and over so there will be a little bit of wiggle room, so to speak."

Brereton said the Hawks would be in prime spot to contend for a premiership for one or two more seasons.

"They probably should have won the Grand Final but Sydney played better on the day, played at their maximum but Hawthorn didn't," he said.

"Next year will be the same. Hawthorn will be a top-three team but it's whether they can grab one then. I would say they need one next year.

"With the inclusion of Brian Lake, who can play on big forwards, they now would be the best-balanced team."

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Sharrod denies Buddy pact

Lance Franklin tells Hawthorn he will not discuss a new deal until the end of the year, sparking fears at the Hawks that he may walk.

West Coast recruit Sharrod Wellingham. Picture: Will Russell Source: The Sunday Times

LANCE Franklin's good mate Sharrod Wellingham believes the Hawthorn champion will remain a one-club player, despite stunning the Hawks by putting off contract negotiations to the end of the season.

Hawthorn had been confident of securing Franklin's signature before Round 1 in an effort to avoid a drawn-out Travis Cloke-style saga providing a distraction.

Fremantle and West Coast management refused to comment yesterday, and the WA clubs are set to publicly pour cold water on Franklin talk throughout the season.

The Dockers and Eagles will be buoyed by the twist and are likely to ask privately what it would take to bring the competition's biggest name back home.

Wellingham, Franklin's former housemate, denied the pair had planned to play for the Eagles together from 2014 and said he did not know why Franklin, 26, had walked away from contract talks with Hawthorn.

"I've sensed that he would like to finish his career at Hawthorn," Wellingham said.

"We'll find out at the end of the year.

"He'll make the decision in due time.

"I'm not sure why he's done that.

Summer Barometer: See how the Eagles are tracking this pre-season

"It's probably similar to all the stuff we went through last year over at Collingwood with Travis - put it at the back of his mind and worry about footy through the year.

"It's just going to be one of those merry-go-rounds throughout the year, I suppose.

"I haven't been in his ear yet (about coming to West Coast). I'll have a whisper in his ear, but I'm not sure how far it'll go."

Wellingham and Franklin will play together for the first time when they run out for the Indigenous All-Stars in Alice Springs on Friday.

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Dane Swan in career-best shape

Dane Swan takes part in match simulation during Collingwood's family day at Victoria Park. Picture: Scott Chris Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD midfielder Dane Swan says his fitness levels and motivation to perform this season are at career-high levels.

And engine room partner Dale Thomas is confident he will be fit to play in Round 1, despite Nathan Buckley's prediction that ankle surgery will keep the star out of the side for "months".

Thomas said yesterday he intends to begin running next week, while Swan continued his impressive pre-season campaign in the club's hour-long match simulation session at Victoria Park yesterday.

The Brownlow Medalist has been unfazed by criticism of his off-field lifestyle and proved he was in top shape, posting a series of personal best time-trial results over summer.

"It's certainly been one of the best (pre-seasons) for a long time,'' Swan said at the club's family day.

"I came back (from the Christmas break) in reasonably good condition, so that always helps.

"I've just done everything that's been asked of me so far and ran personal bests in all my time-trails, (so there's) not much more I can ask for.''

The Pies served the 28-year-old with a two-game suspension for an alcohol-related indiscretion last year, prompting speculation about his future at the club.

Summer Barometer: Track the Pies' pre-season

But the three-time best-and-fairest winner said he was committed to helping lead the Pies to on-field success this season.

"I actually feel pretty good and feel pretty keen to get back out there, which is probably changed compared to a couple of other pre-seasons,'' he said.

"I just can't wait to get back out there and get amongst it.

"While I've got 'Johnno' (Ben Johnson) and 'Dids' (Alan Didak) here, they make me feel pretty young, because they're getting pretty old, so while I'm here I feel pretty youthful.''

Picture gallery: Collingwood family day

Buckley cast doubt on Thomas's ability to be ready for Round 1 this week but the line-breaker said he wanted to play in the season-opener against North Melbourne.

"It depends who you ask, Nathan said I was a couple of months away, so hopefully I am a bit quicker than that,'' Thomas said.

"(I'm) Aiming for Round 1, so hopefully (I'll) get back running next week, get some decent training in.

"If all goes to plan, (I'll play) Round 1, or hopefully a week or two earlier.''

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Tippett's still got friends in Adelaide

Sydney recruit Kurt Tippett at pre-season training in Coffs Harbour. Picture: Bradley Hunter Source: The Daily Telegraph

CONTROVERSIAL Sydney recruit Kurt Tippett talks to Neil Cordy about the Swans, being a villain and his salary-cap ban.

How are you settling into the Swans?

I couldn't be happier. Coming into the team a little bit later than I expected was a little bit daunting. I thought it might be hard to get to know the boys, but they've been incredible in welcoming me.

Did you ever think you wouldn't make it here?

Nothing was certain during the (contract drama) so it was hard to feel confident about my chances of getting to Sydney. It's great that it worked out.

You are the first player since Greg Williams in 1992 to be penalised for a salary-cap breach, do you feel hard done by?

That's a tough question to answer. I feel very fortunate to be in Sydney, where I always wanted to be. In regards to the sanction, it's very disappointing that I can't play and I will find it very hard to sit out the first 11 rounds of this season.

I'm trying to move forward the best I can with the cards I've been dealt. I'll spend all my time and energy trying to play the best I can when I get back.

Your first game back will be in Adelaide against the Power, what are you expecting?

I'll probably be a bit nervous having sat out for so long. I'll be anxious to get out there and put my best foot forward and hit the ground running. It will be a bit of an odd one going back to Adelaide for the first one I play for my new side, but that's the way it is. There will be a lot of things going through my head.

Kurt Tippett leaves the AFL Commission with his legal counsel David Gallbally. Picture: Norm Oorloff Source: adelaidenow

Do you think there will be Crows supporters turning up to give you some stick?

Quite possibly. Hopefully there are some people there to support me.

An unnamed Adelaide player said your name was mud and that it would be hard for you to have any relationship with the your former teammates. How do you feel about that?

There was a lot of emotion floating around at that time. It wasn't a perfect situation or a perfect exit from a football
club. It's not the way you would like to leave.

In saying there was a set of circumstances and things evolved in a certain way. It wasn't ideal, I understand
that. But, in moving forward, I don't see why things should change. Friends are friends, teammates are teammates and I think everyone respects and understands why people do certain things, looking after their future and making themselves as happy as they can.

You said when you departed Adelaide that you wanted to maintain contact with your teammates. Have you?

Yes. I played there for six years and have a lot of good friends in Adelaide whether they be teammates or people outside the football club.

How did you feel being cast as the villain?

I didn't enjoy it at all. In challenging times, you learn a lot about yourself.

You're joining the premier, does that make it an even bigger challenge?

I know I'm coming into a very good side and a very well respected side. That's exciting for me because I know I'll get the best out of myself as a footballer. I hope to make this team even better if I can.

Kurt Tippett wrestles with Swans big man Mike Pyke. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

You are going to sit out the first half of the season, how are you going to handle that?

I've had brief discussions about it. I guess the first thing is to prepare like I'm going to play in Round 1.

The intra-club matches will be your only game practice before you play. Does that give them extra importance?

I'm going to concentrate on every session from now until the guys ease back from training into their preparation to play because it's also important for me to learn the way my teammates play and the game plan and the structures.

Each session, I'm really going to treasure because having the whole squad out there training at 100 per cent is not going to happen for very long.
 

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Daisy in doubt for Round 1

Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley reveals star midfielder Dale Thomas is no certainty to be fit for the start of the season following ankle surgery.

Collingwood stars Dale Thomas, Heath Shaw, Dane Swan and Ben Johnson talk shop at training yesterday. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

Injured Collingwood star Dale Thomas remains in doubt for Round 1. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD coach Nathan Buckley has cast doubt over Dale Thomas's availability for Round 1.

The midfielder has yet to resume full training as he recovers from ankle surgery.

The news comes as Buckley accused his onballers of being downhill skiers at times last year.

"He is still a couple of months away," he said of Thomas.

"He will need to get some solid training in and get up to speed before he is ready to play some games of footy, whether that is late in the NAB (Cup) or early in the home-and-away (season) will depend on the speed of his recovery.

"He has had a modified pre-season and has got a lot of fitness work in, but not on legs. So we will have to judge that as we go."

As the Magpies gear up for Round 1 against North Melbourne on March 31, Buckley said yesterday players who could not instil defensive pressure all over the ground would not be selected.

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Brownlow medallist Dane Swan has been criticised for his one-way running, but Buckley felt he was not alone.

"We were too offensive out of stoppages and with our transitional running at times," he said.

"And not clean enough to support that offence. If we were cleaner and more efficient inside 50, you can run forward all you like. The ball is never going to come back. But when you come up against other sides, the ball comes back at you more often and you need to be able to handle that.

"I believe in team defence. You need 22 players to be defending. We improved our transitional defence as the year went on and we were better for it. We have some real depth now in our squad.

"If you are not going to tip into the defensive aspects, you are going to struggle to get a game of footy for us."

Buckley said the club's review of 2012 also identified the need for a tagger and that the Pies kicked to Travis Cloke to often.

He said the club had scored on only 40 per cent of its inside-50s, despite going to Cloke 80 per cent of the time.

"We need to be more aggressive with our ball movement," he said.

The off-contract Thomas said last week he was in no rush to start negotiating a new deal until he recovered.

But he said he was wary of letting contract talks turn into the "circus" that engulfed Cloke last year.

Buckley said: "We have got about 40 per cent of our list coming out of contract this year and we will deal with those guys, appropriately, at the right times."

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Buddy suspends contract talks

HAWTHORN superstar Lance Franklin has told the club he will not discuss a new contract until the end of the season, sparking fears he may leave.

Franklin is a restricted free agent at the end of the year, meaning he can entertain offers from rival clubs.

The Hawks said yesterday they made a "very good offer" to Franklin -- understood to have been between $900,000 and $1 million a season for up to four years -- and were stunned when told this week all negotiations were off until the end of September.

The offer also included a healthy slice of the club's marketing allowance.

"Buddy has made it pretty clear he'd prefer to leave the discussions to the end of the 2013 season," Hawthorn's head of football Mark Evans said.

Franklin's manager Liam Pickering said last night: "Buddy has 12 months to go on his contract and he wants to concentrate on playing.

"He said he didn't want the distraction of a contract and he has advised me talks are off until the end of the season.

"He doesn't want to entertain discussions and, whilst Hawthorn aren't happy, that's how it is, unfortunately."

Hawthorn is unable to pay Franklin market value as skipper Luke Hodge and Sam Mitchell are on massive contracts, and Cyril Rioli, Jarryd Roughead, Grant Birchall, Brian Lake, Jordan Lewis and Brad Sewell are on sizeable deals.

Fremantle has been linked to Franklin, though the Dockers have not spoken to Pickering. Last year the Dockers offered Collingwood's Travis Cloke about $1.1 million for five years, but failed to land him. 

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The expectation is Franklin, who is from Western Australia, would be offered more than Cloke.

The Hawks yesterday confirmed six months of discussions had hit a brick wall this week.

Evans admitted Franklin's decision had rocked the club and already there were fears the constant talk about Franklin's future would become a major distraction, as it did at Collingwood with Cloke.

"It is not an ideal situation because we'd prefer to close off the distraction for Buddy, for the club, for supporters, for Pickers, and have a free run at our 2013 campaign," Evans said.

"We've been having a number of discussions over the past 5 1/2 months, and we've put together what we think is a very good offer, and Pickers is on record as saying it is respectable.

"Obviously, we had a few things to sort out.

"We know our offer is a strong offer, but at the moment it's not that the offer hasn't been accepted or rejected, it's only the discussions have been put off until the end of the season."

The Hawks accept Franklin can explore free agency.

"He's a free agent at the end of 2013 and he's got every right to proceed with contract discussions as he wants to," Evans said.

Despite Franklin's decision to cease discussions, the Hawks said they would endeavour to keep contact.

"We need to make sure we have regular contact with Pickers and Buddy and, should the situation change, our door is open," Evans said.

Pickering also manages Gary Ablett, who left Geelong for Gold Coast after announcing at the start of 2010 that contract talks were on hold until the end of the year.

Greater Western Sydney's Tom Scully said the same, then left Melbourne.

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Davey back in frame at Dees

Melbourne veteran Aaron Davey turned heads at the club's pre-season training camp in Darwin. Picture: Klein Michael Source: Herald Sun

THE "weight of the world" has been lifted from Aaron Davey's shoulders as he attempts to revive his flagging career this season.

After a slow start to the pre-season, the Melbourne veteran turned heads with his performance on the club's Darwin training camp, thrusting him back into calculations for early-season senior selection.

Davey, 29, has played 19 games in the past two seasons because of knee problems and form lapses.

But Demons vice-captain Nathan Jones said the 2009 best-and-fairest winner could yet play a key role in the Demons reshaped forward line.

"He's had some real injury trouble and he's probably found the pre-season and the workload pretty tough and it's been an area that he's obviously needed to work on," Jones said.

"He's really been trying to work hard on the fitness and get his body right and build the strength back in his legs.

"At the moment, I see him looking refreshed and pretty excited about the year ahead, so it's almost like the weight of the world is off his shoulders." 

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Davey, who played one game after Round 8 last season against Greater Western Sydney, was subject to intense trade speculation last year. He played only eight games in 2012 and produced his least number of disposals (84) since his 2004 debut season.

Earlier in the club's pre-season campaign, it appeared the 158-gamer had been leapfrogged by the club's influx of recruits and draftees, such as Jack Viney, Jimmy Toumpas, Shannon Byrnes and David Rodan.

But Jones was adamant Davey's fitness has improved since December.

"He started to find some real endurance in training and as long as he starts to get some continuity and confidence back in his body, who knows?" Jones said.

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Carrazzo firms as new Blues leader

Carlton coach Mick Malthouse with captaincy contenders Andrew Carrazzo, Kade Simpson and Marc Murphy at D.O.C Delicatessen in Lygon St. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

THE three contenders for Carlton's captaincy will get a chance to lead the team during the NAB Cup before coach Mick Malthouse makes his decision next month.

The Blues face a tough call on who will succeed Chris Judd, with Andrew Carrazzo in front of Marc Murphy and Kade Simpson.

The decision is seen as critical at a club that according to both former coach Brett Ratten and Malthouse has a host of natural introverts.

The trio will be given their auditions after the Blues' round-robin NAB Cup opener against Greater Western Sydney and Sydney on February 24.

Carlton president Stephen Kernahan said yesterday it was exciting to have so many contenders for the position, while conceding Murphy and Carrazzo were likely to fight out the job.

He said once Malthouse made his decision, it would be ratified by the club board.

"Mick came to us and said, 'That's the way I would like to do it, with the three of them in the NAB Cup'," Kernahan said.

"He will make a call to us and the board will ratify it. Murphy and Carrazzo are probably the favourites, but it's exciting for all three of them.

"Carrazzo is the experienced leader and Murph is the up-and-comer. Juddy will be a hard act to follow and could have done it for as long as he wanted, but we have some really strong senior leadership." 

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Carrazzo would be a departure from Judd -- the Brownlow medallist led by example and expected his teammates to follow -- and Kernahan praised the tagger's communication skills.

"'Carrots' is a real professional," Kernahan said.

"He has great support from his family (Carrazzo is the father of one-year-old triplets) and it will be interesting to see which one Mick picks. They are all great candidates."

The Blues take on Fremantle and then Adelaide in full-length games before a potential NAB Cup grand final or regional cup game in which the third contender would lead the side.

Carlton's first season under Malthouse will hit its stride from Wednesday's first practice match, with another intra-club game on February 15.

At this stage only Andrew McInnes (knee reconstruction) has been ruled out for Round 1, a far cry from Ratten's final season in which plenty of players entered the season after serious surgeries.

Ratten, sacked for Malthouse last year, said last year the club had psychologically tested its players and felt that many of them went into their shells too often.

Malthouse is known to share that view, which was also voiced towards the end of last season by club legend and former coach Robert Walls.

"One of the problems with Carlton's leadership group, if you want to extend that to your senior eight players who played last night, the majority of them are introverts," Walls said last year.

"(Chris) Judd is not a vocal player, but he does it (lead) by example."

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Auld tackles drug issue front on

Gold Coast Suns CEO Travis Auld was part of a special AFL committee at this week's drug summit. Picture: David Clark Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

TRAVIS Auld strode into Wednesday's summit determined to get a spot on the frontline of the AFL's war on drugs.

Ever since he arrived on the Gold Coast as the CEO of the AFL's 17th side, Auld had heard the horror stories warning him of the dangers lurking in the shadowy corners of Surfer's Paradise.

The club's location on the outskirts of Sin City, coupled with the fact the side was predominantly filled with teenaged draftees, was supposed to mean the Suns faced unique cultural risks.

That myth was one of many shattered during the summit when one expert presented data that showed Queensland fell well behind Western Australia, Victoria and New South Wales in the availability of drugs and recorded drug related crimes.

But just because his players weren't likely to slip over on a bag of pills every time they ventured out at night, does not mean the risks aren't there.

"I don't have heightened concerns about our players, but I am a realist," Auld said. "I know what goes on in society and I am aware they are exposed to the same temptations as other 18 to 29-year-olds."

Auld was in the room during last year's draft on the Gold Coast when Collingwood chief executive Gary Pert called for a summit with an impassioned plea that something had to be done about the "serious issue" of drugs.

If the most powerful club in football felt powerless against the threat of drugs, what hope did the newbies have?

Auld got his wish when he was appointed alongside big guns Pert, Ian Robson (Essendon), the AFLPA and drug experts on the special AFL committee that was formed to tackle the issue and propose changes to the league's existing Illicit Drugs Policy.

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And he supports proposals to reveal to clubs the identity of players who record positive strikes and is all for tightening the regulations around the self reporting loophole to eradicate the risk of abuse by players.

"Clubs are a lot more sophisticated than they were when this policy was introduced and are best placed in terms of understanding players, the pressures they face and the needs they may have," Auld said.

Auld is also determined to explore an idea that by reducing the commitments clubs place on their players, and shortening their pre-seasons, they may ease the desperation with which some players attack their rare nights out.

Another myth is that footballers were drawn to party drugs because they do not affect skinfolds like alcohol consumption does and there is less of a hangover effect.

The data presented revealed that in 97 per cent of positive tests under the AFL's illicit drug policy the players had been drinking heavily.

The AFL, the clubs and the AFL Players Association did their best to present a united front after the nine-hour talkfest, but there remains one key battleground -- when and how much information clubs receive about their players' drug use.

The players demand confidentiality and the AFL's medicos remain firmly behind them because they do not trust football managers and coaches.

Footy managers could wash their hands of a problem by trading out players with a strike beside their name, while coaches could take the information with them if they switched clubs.
 

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AFL 2013 win predictions

Nathan Buckley is hoping to improve on Collingwood's 16 wins last season. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

AFL writers Jay Clark, Sam Edmund and Sam Landsberger predict how many matches your team will win in 2013.

Eskander's Betstar has released a market that allows punters to bet on whether each club will finish over or under the number of wins predicted by the bookmaker's forecasters.

See the line for each club below plus our expert assessments - and have your say by leaving a comment below or sending a message on Twitter to:

Jay Clark: @clarkyheraldsun
Sam Edmund: @sammyheraldsun
Sam Landsberger: @samlandsberger

Note: Tipsters were limited to selecting nine teams "over" and nine "under".

BEST BETS

CLARK: Gold Coast under 5 wins ($1.90)
EDMUND: Collingwood over 15.5 wins ($1.90)
LANDSBERGER: Brisbane over 9.5 wins ($1.90)

EVERY CLUB RATED

ADELAIDE
Betstar line: 14 wins

Clark: Over ($1.80)
Fairly soft draw will ensure the Crows are bashing down the door of the top-four again. Love the kids such as Rory Sloane and Rising Star winner Daniel Talia. Hard-nut Brad Crouch is a ready-made beauty. Forget Tippett, this is the No.1 contested ball team from last year.

Edmund: Over ($1.80)
The second-year blues will hit and the loss of Tippett will hurt, but they'll get to 14.

Landsberger: Over ($1.80)
They say Tex is the new Buddy. With 12 games at AAMI Stadium and another soft draw they will cruise to 15 wins.

BRISBANE LIONS
Betstar line: 9.5 wins

Clark: Over ($1.90)
Tipping they're one of the big improvers this year. Play GWS, Melbourne and Western Bulldogs twice. Key forward presence the biggest query as Jon Brown nears the end.

Edmund: Under ($1.90)
Let's be honest, they fluked a few wins last year. Adelaide? West Coast? Please. Can't and won't happen again. Forward line looks thin to say the least. There's an over-reliance on Brown, who is another year older. If he goes down - again - they will struggle.

Landsberger: Over ($1.90)
The Lions are a huge finals roughie with an underrated young list. Should easily replicate last year's tally of 10 wins.

New Carlton draftee Troy Menzel with coach Mick Malthouse. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

CARLTON
Betstar line: 14 wins

Clark: Over ($1.90)
Mick has stumbled upon a pot of gold, as the Blues are ready to go. Expect a version of "the press" to be employed inside 50m and Robert Warnock and Matthew Kreuzer to improve markedly in 2013.

Edmund: Over ($1.90)
Maybe because they didn't have a high-performance coach nicknamed "The Weapon" the Blues' 2012 injury nightmare was often overlooked. When they were all on the park early the results were highly encouraging, which is why a mainly injury-free pre-season is cause for optimism. Oh, and that bloke Mick knows a thing or two about the game as well.

Landsberger: Over ($1.90)
Mick doesn't muck around. Will finish the year like a steam train to give the top four a shake.

COLLINGWOOD
Betstar line: 15.5 wins

Clark: Over ($1.90)
Pies are raving about Quinten Lynch's summer form and Luke Ball and Lachy Keeffe return from knee recos. Got to be better in second season under Bucks.

Edmund: Over ($1.90)
This is quite simple. Despite a knee injury epidemic that claimed just about everyone bar the water boys, this mob still clawed its way to 16 wins last year. Throw in the Cloke contract saga and Buckley's first year as coach and that winning tally looks even more impressive. Young, Lynch and Russell all joined in a fruitful off-season ... I'll stop now, 15.5 wins is a monty.

Landsberger: Over ($1.90)
The gloves are off, literally, and the all-star engine room will ensure a fifth-straight top-four finish.

Mover and shaker: Essendon recruit Brendon Goddard has be chosen to join the eight-man leadership group at Windy Hill. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON
Betstar line: 13 wins

Clark: Under ($1.90)
They've got the biggest name of the trade period in Brendon Goddard, but not convinced Hirdy's boys are top-eight material just yet.

Edmund: Under ($1.90)
Harder to read than a Chinese dictionary. Will this be the year their exhilarating early-season starts are maintained through the season, or will they again fade like your grandmother's carpet? Still think they're a bit light-on to get to 13 wins, despite the addition of Goddard and the undoubted talent of first-year forward Joe Daniher.

Landsberger: Under ($1.90)
BJ's onboard but finding another three wins looks a stretch. Can still go under and make finals.

FREMANTLE
Betstar line: 14 wins

Clark: Under ($1.90)
One of the toughest to pick, because the signs in the elimination final win over Geelong were ultra-impressive. But, even with Ross the boss in charge, Dockers will need full seasons from Pavlich, Sandilands and McPharlin to hit the 14-win mark.

Edmund: Over ($1.90)
It's very difficult to believe the Dockers, exposed to another summer of Ross Lyon's tactical genius, can't eclipse the 14-win mark. They got their last year despite slumping to 6-7 after Round 14 - about the same time everyone in purple was calling for the coach's head. That's when Lyon's message started sinking in.

Landsberger: Under ($1.90)
A tough one. Pav's back is a worry, Morabito is out, the defence lost a chunk of depth and it might take one more season to hit full throttle under Ross Lyon.

Tom Hawkins celebrates with his teammates after kicking the winning goal after the siren to continue Hawthorn's run of outs against the Cats. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

GEELONG
Betstar line: 13.5 wins

Clark: Over ($1.85)
Lots to like about their trade period, once again. Josh Caddy is starring over summer and Hamish McIntosh is an upgrade ruck/forward. Can't see them being beaten at home when they finally get on Simonds Stadium from mid-season.

Edmund: Over ($1.85)
The aura may have softened, but this is a side still devastating on its day. The recruitment of Rivers and McIntosh were masterstrokes. If history is any guide they won't drop off the cliff.

Landsberger: Under ($1.95)
Could hit panic stations early and it'll be hard to recover despite the spate of Simonds Stadium matches in the run home.

GOLD COAST
Betstar line: 5 wins

Clark: Under ($1.90)
Expecting the Paul Roos to Gold Coast talk to fire up midway through the year. Can't dispute the level of talent but haven't seen enough on-field signs to suggest they will flourish in year three. Jaeger O'Meara will provide some joy, though.

Edmund: Under ($1.90)
Missed out on the power forward they so desperately need. Ablett, Bennell and Co can dominate all they like, but when the ball flies straight back over their heads ad nauseam, you don't win too many games. No doubt the kids will improve - they have to - but five wins? Can't see it.

Landsberger: Under ($1.90)
Is there such a thing as third-year blues? Can't see the Suns doubling their wins tally.

GWS
Betstar line: 5 wins

Clark: Under ($1.90)
We know they will be a powerhouse but another year at the bottom beckons in 2013.

EDMUND: Unders ($1.90)
No Izzy, no GWS.

Landsberger: Under ($1.90)
Leon Cameron will take over a two-time wooden-spoon side. But that'll just make the Giants even scarier in the long term.

Hawthorn footballer Brian Lake at training today after he was booked by police for being drunk in a public place over the weekend. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN
Betstar line: 16.5 wins

Clark: Over ($1.85)
Seventeen wins is achievable if they can navigate an exceptionally tough first month. Won 17 last year and added Brian Lake.

Edmund: Over ($1.85)
Will be slapped in the face early by the draw from hell, but we're talking about a side that notched 17 wins last year. Add Brian Lake and surely, surely, they can get going and rack up at least 16.5 victories.

Landsberger: Over ($1.85)
It's a tough draw on paper, but so are the Hawks. Not going to drop six matches when just four are at hostile venues.

MELBOURNE
Betstar line: 6.5 wins

Clark: Over ($1.90)
The Dees play GWS, Gold Coast and the Bulldogs twice each. Jack Viney and Jimmy Toumpas will make an immediate impression onball and Mitch Clark and Chris Dawes make a potent double act up forward. Surely, Dees.

Edmund: Over ($1.90)
Did their bit for the AFL environment over the trade and free agency period, recycling like mad men. Rodan, Byrnes, Dawes and Pederson aren't matchwinners, but they add much-needed depth and experience. Will be fitter, stronger and surely more accomplished at executing Mark Neeld's game plan.

Landsberger: Over ($1.90)
Viney out of the middle, hands it to Byrnes who goes long, Clark can't mark but Dawes gathers, snaps… goal. It's a new-look Dees this year, with developing a winning culture the No.1 priority.

Melbourne's father-son selection Jack Viney with his dad Todd at the MCG. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

NORTH MELBOURNE
Betstar line: 12 wins

Clark: Over ($1.85)
Won't be a walk in the park as the Roos confront a much tougher draw this year and will miss Boomer for the first six matches. Still, a side on track to contend for top four in 2014 should have 12 wins by Round 20.

Edmund: Under ($1.95)
Any mental demons from that embarrassing elimination final exit at the hands of West Coast will be flushed out by a tough opening to the season in which they face Collingwood, Geelong and Sydney. There's no Boomer for the first six rounds and McIntosh and Edwards were allowed to leave over summer. Not much came back the other way.

Landsberger: Under ($1.95)
How much mental scarring will that embarrassing elimination final showing leave?

PORT ADELAIDE
Betstar line: 5 wins

Clark: Over ($1.85)
Hard to erase memories of being knocked off by GWS and Gold Coast in past two years but surely they will finally take some steps forward this year, under Ken Hinkley. Improvement from a fit Hamish Hartlett and John Butcher is the key.

Edmund: Under ($1.95)
No, no no. Just no.

Landsberger: Over ($1.85)
The regenerated Power will surprise plenty this year. Should scratch and crawl their way to six wins.

RICHMOND
Betstar line: 12 wins

Clark: Under ($1.90)
The Tigers' fortunes will be one of the stories of the year and it's all going to happen at the back end of the season when the Tigers confront some lower-placed sides. Despite the hype, they will fall just short.

Edmund: Over ($1.90)
Put it this way, if the Tigers don't make the eight this year don't worry about a trailer of manure on the doorstep, the ME Bank Centre might be buried under the stuff. Despite their loyalty, patience has just about expired among Tiger fans and fair enough. The recruiting blunders are a thing of the past. Chaplin, Edwards, Knights, Petterd and Lonergan are great additions and Cotchin will thrive on captaincy duties. In the words of Sam Kekovich, you know it makes sense.

Landsberger: Over ($1.90)
It's Tiger Time. Nuff said.

ST KILDA
Betstar line: 9 wins

Clark: Under ($1.95)
Down year coming up for the Saints, despite the exciting batch of first-to-third year youngsters coming through. Time to regenerate.

Edmund: Under ($1.95)
When you look at the St Kilda list you see a gap between their mature stars and their kids about as wide as the Grand Canyon. And this why the slide will be on in 2013. Goddard is gone and that core group of stars - Riewoldt, Montagna, Dal Santo and Co - won't get any better. Expect a quiet year or two.

Landsberger: Under ($1.95)
They've got 18 leaders but are looking at half that number in wins. Still, on the right track.

St Kilda coach Scott Watters, left, and captain Nick Riewoldt watch a Denver Broncos training session in Englewood, Colorado. Picture: Dustin Bradford. Source: Getty Images

SYDNEY
Betstar line: 15.5 wins

Clark: Under ($1.85)
The Swans played out of their skins last year and credit to them. Even with Kurt Tippett in the fold I can't see them replicating last year's heroics.

Edmund: Under (1.85)
We underestimate them every year, so why stop now? Rivals will have done their homework, Goodes will be a slow starter and Tippett won't play until mid-year and probably cause all manner of distraction along the way. Even the Swans could suffer the good ol' fashioned premiership hangover.

Landsberger: Over ($1.95)
Won 16 last year and then picked up a bloke called Kurt Tippett. Won't lose at home.

2012 Grand Final. Hawthorn v Sydney Swans. MCG. Sydney players on the podium as Bob Skilton looks on. Source: Herald Sun

WEST COAST
Betstar line: 16 wins

Clark: Under ($1.90)
Two things worry me: Nic Nat's groin and Fremantle's knack of topping them at Subi. Still a threat in finals.

Edmund: Over ($1.90)
There's a buzz team every summer and this time it's the Eagles. Why? Aside from the fact they were hard to beat last year, they've added Wellingham, goalkickers LeCras and Nicoski return, while Kennedy can't be that unlucky again.

Landsberger: Under ($1.90)
Could hinge on the two derbies. The line here is spot on – tough to call.

Welcome to the major league, lads: Jake Stringer and Jackson Macrae after being selected at No.5 and No.6 by the Western Bulldogs. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

WESTERN BULLDOGS
Betstar line: 4 wins

Clark: Under ($1.90)
Only play Gold Coast, Port Adelaide and GWS once each. Adam Cooney is up and about but games against Melbourne will determine whether the Dogs cover the line this year.

Edmund: Under ($1.90)
You can surround your club with football royalty, but come Round 12, they'll be asking Scarlett and Mooney to pull the boots on. Lake leaves a hole they can't yet fill and for all the promise shown by the likes of Wallis and Libba, the list looks thin on the ground.

Landsberger: Under ($1.90)
A horror draw makes life tough, but wins-losses aside, the future is bright at the kennel.

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Big clubs say rich tax will hurt

Essendon chief executive Ian Robson fears a luxury tax could drive members away from Windy Hill. Picture: Glenn Daniels Source: Herald Sun

VICTORIA's power clubs will rebel against plans for a luxury tax, fearful the bid to help battling clubs could backfire.

Chiefs said controversial proposals to impose a levy on high-spending clubs could drive down membership and rob the league of vital revenue.

Heavyweights Essendon, Collingwood and Hawthorn have united to fight what they see as a tax on success.

Essendon yesterday called on the AFL to accelerate plans to buy Etihad Stadium to add another revenue stream and help ailing tenant clubs.

The AFL will inherit the Docklands Stadium on March 8, 2025, but if the league acquired it early it could not only restructure stadium deals but make money from soccer and cricket games.

But it became clear yesterday that having closely considered that move 18 months ago the league believed the price - believed to be over $200 million - was too high now.

A luxury tax would see clubs spending extra money over a set amount on their football departments handing back a slice of that money to battling clubs.

Bombers president Ian Robson said the league had only just implemented a complex equalisation strategy.

"Luxury taxes have been applied in the NFL and those clubs are for profit and owned by billionaires," Robson said.

"When they write a cheque to pay luxury taxes, they are writing them with their own money. We would be writing them with the money of members.

"We are against luxury taxes and caps on spending. It's not sensible or logical to go to our members and say that 90 cents of the dollar goes to us and 10 cents goes to a pot of central revenue.

"There was a radical equalisation policy put in place only last year. Don't we need to give it a bit more than 12 months to say it hasn't worked?"

Hawthorn chief executive Stuart Fox said stadium deals should be the No.1 priority for the AFL as it seeks to find a balance between rich and poor.

"We want a healthy competition so we are supportive of keeping clubs in trouble up with the pace," he said.

"To me it a lazy way of generating revenue to give to poor clubs and is a disincentive internally and externally.

"The message it sends is terrible. Members wouldn't be supportive of being taxed. Their membership fees would effectively pay for the tax. I think it's hard enough for clubs to break even or make small clubs. We are only every one or two poor decisions away from posting a loss."

Clubs will soon respond to the AFL's request for feedback on equalisation reform, with that information to form the backbone of a discussion at a meeting with the AFL Commission in March.

AFL chief operating officer Gillon McLachlan stressed yesterday luxury taxes were just one of several proposals and he was aware every equalisation measure had a drawback.

Collingwood president Eddie McGuire was similarly emphatic about proposals that are taxes on wealthy clubs.

"The two biggest issues to make sure that the smaller or poorer clubs can compete against anyone is to get the salary cap right and to get the draft right," he said.

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Lords of the jungle

Brisbane captain Jonathan Brown will share leadership duties this season after threatening to step down during the pre-season. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

JONATHAN Brown contemplated stepping down as Brisbane Lions captain during the off-season but will now share leadership duties at the Gabba.

Brown approached coach Michael Voss at the end of last season and told him he was prepared to walk away from the captaincy.

A series of discussions with Voss produced a leadership model that will keep Brown partially at the helm.

Brown, who was a co-captain in 2007 and 2008 before assuming sole captaincy in 2009, said "the time was right" to step down.

"It's good for the club, good for the players to share the responsibility and good for myself," Brown said.

"We had a few discussions at the end of the year about stepping aside and looking to the future.

"Vossy said he would like me to continue as a captain, but we will bring in a co-captain to bring that next generation through."

Brisbane is yet to appoint the co-captain but vice-captains Daniel Merrett, Jed Adcock and Tom Rockliff are in the mix with midfielder Daniel Rich.

"It's not just restricted to the guys in the leadership group," Brown said.

"There's a few guys that are more than capable of doing it now. They are really ready for it."

Brown, 31, has been captain or co-captain of Brisbane for 112 of his 230 games.

Brown said he contemplated the move well before Carlton's Chris Judd stepped down as Blues skipper late last year.

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SuperCoach is back!

Shane Crawford channels his inner Liam Neeson when he discovers Gary Ablett is 'taken' and tries to organise a swap with one of his mates

Shane Crawford can't wait to get stuck into the new SuperCoach season. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

YOU can pick on my height.

You can pot the Hawks, make jokes about my teeth and bag my mother in law. Even my wife is fair game.

But if you beat me in SuperCoach, that's personal.

There's nothing like coming to work on Monday ready to brag about a SuperCoach win, or sending a text message when a mate's captain withdraws the night before our big match-up.

Goodbye tennis, goodbye cricket. SuperCoach is back and I'm so excited to be short-listing my squad for 2013.

Who will be this year's Dayne Zorko? Maybe Jack Viney from Melbourne, son of former champion Todd Viney and tough as nails.

Scroll down to see all the exciting new features of SuperCoach 2013 and Join the live chat with SuperCoach expert Al Paton from noon

Picking the next big thing is one of the keys to the game, and there will be plenty of time to change my mind before the season starts on March 22.

What I'm most excited about is the new option of being part of a SuperCoach draft.

You only have to register once and can play both games for free. How good is that?

CLICK HERE TO START PICKING YOUR SQUAD NOW

I already have my eyes on chief football writer Mark Robinson's every move and can't wait until the Herald Sun experts sit down for an internal draft (I'm picking first because I'm organising the session. Gary Ablett, you're mine.)

In either game, research is the key to picking a successful team. Watch all the NAB Cup games and follow SuperFooty every day for all the latest. Jump on Twitter and Facebook for breaking news and tips and to pick the brains of all the other SuperCoaches out there (I'm at @SCrawf9).

What will Brendon Goddard's role be at the Bombers? Will Brian Lake make an instant impact at the Hawks?

Does Mick Malthouse have the key to unlocking the potential of the Blues, and Jarrad Waite?

COMING UP: To get your SuperCoach team right for 2013 stick with SuperFooty next week and all the way to Round 1 for club-by-club SuperCoach previews, SuperCoach DRAFT player guides, SuperCoach analysis of every NAB Cup and practice match, exclusive videos plus lots more!

Will a slow pre-season for Adam Goodes interrupt his year or will his brother Brett Goodes be a must for all sides as a cheap and classy defender at the Western Bulldogs?

Will Giants forward Jonathon Patton take the competition by storm after his first full AFL pre-season?

All I can say is get involved. It's the best fun you'll have off the footy field.

And make sure you prepare like all the AFL players do to start the year. Because I can assure you I've had the best SuperCoach pre-season ever. So if you have me in your sights this year, you better be ready. In 2013, it's personal.

Join the live chat with SuperCoach expert Al Paton from noon:

Using a mobile device? Click here for a better viewing experience

WHAT'S NEW

New rules - 30 trades, rolling lockout means you won't be caught out by late team changes, smaller squads for bye rounds and a new team structure to better reflect the way the game is played

Relaunch leagues - Send league invites to your opponents from last year with the click of a button. You can even choose who to include and who to leave out.

Take on more mates - In addition to your five private leagues, you can challenge friends on Facebook and Twitter and create or join up to three unlimited size private groups

Intelligent auto-pick - Selecting a competitive squad is even easier. Choose your favourite players and let us fill in the rest.

Plus a refreshed look and feel and lots more - register or login now to explore the 2013 competition!

Join the debate on Facebook at facebook.com/supercoach

SUPERCOACH DRAFT

Take SuperCoach to a new level with a unique private league draft in which each player can only be selected once - if you pick Gary Ablett, none of your mates can have him.

Bargain with friends to complete trade deals between league opponents and make unlimited trades from the free agent pool.

Completely customisable - choose how your league works to suit you

Play alongside your SuperCoach CLASSIC team on the same login

Both games are completely FREE

Herald Sun super coach , Shane Crawford Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

FOUR EASY STEPS

1. Go to www.heraldsun.com.au/supercoach. The login page has more info on how to play and the exciting new 2013 features

2. Click register and fill in your details. Pick a team name and design your own unique guernsey

3. Join or create a private league to play against your friends and family

4. Start picking your squad of 30 AFL players who will score points for you every week

SUPERCOCH GOLD

SuperCoach GOLD helps you to better select and manage your team and make educated coaching decisions through the season. The collection of powerful tools and content provides projections for player scores and value, break-evens, analysis of player stats, player performance indicators, past stats and much more. Sign up now for a free trial.

WIN BIG

$50,000 to top-ranked coach at the end of the season plus $5000 for your local footy club

$1000 for the highest scoring team each round

$10,000 and a two-hour coaching clinic for Australia's top SuperCoach school

Sign up early to win $5000 F1 Adrenaline package including tickets for the winner and three mates to the 2013 Australian Grand Prix, VIP entertainment seats, V8 hot lap and helicopter fly-over

STAY IN THE GAME

Check superfooty.com.au every day for latest news and expert advice

Like SuperCoach on Facebook to join the debate. Go to facebook.com/supercoach
Follow @superfooty on twitter for breaking developments and inside tips. Go to twitter.com/superfooty

CLICK HERE TO START PICKING YOUR SQUAD NOW

Herald Sun SuperCoach 2013 Minimal Terms and Conditions
Open to all Australian residents. Enter from 12:01AM AEDST on 01/02/13, ends at 11:59PM AEST on 01/09/13. Limit 1 entry per person. Entrants must access their home page at least every 30 days or may be disqualified. Overall and weekly winners determined by Vapormedia at Suite 107, 425 Docklands Drive, Docklands VIC 3008 at 10am (local time) on day after completion of each round (weekly winners) and on 02/09/13 (overall and other winners). Weekly Prizes: $1,000 cash. Overall prizes: Competition Major Prize $50,000 cash + $5,000 for local footy club, Website Prizes: up to $5,000 Website Prize for entrants entering via specific websites as set out in full conditions. School Group Prize (other than NSW and ACT schools): $10,000 cash & footy clinic. Weekly winners e-mailed and published online day after completion of each round and in The Australian on dates set out in full conditions, overall winners and other winners e-mailed and published online on 02/09/13 and in The Australian on 04/09/13. Promoter: The Herald and Weekly Times Pty Limited, 40 City Rd, Southbank VIC 3006. Entry and full conditions: www.heraldsun.com.au/supercoach. NSW Permit No. LTPS/13/00586 and ACT Permit No.TP 13/00230

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Drugs double vision

AFL Players Assoc CEO Matt Finnis, Collingwood CEO Gary Pert , AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou and Dr Peter Harcourt. Picture: Mike Keating Source: Herald Sun

TESTING of players for illicit drugs could be doubled for less than $200,000, the AFL says.

AFL medical officer Dr Peter Harcourt is believed to have told Wednesday's drug summit that the cost for each club to fund the move would be $10,000.

The proposal that clubs be given the chance to pay for extra testing received strong support.

In 2011 there were six positive results from 1489 tests conducted.

AFL clubs raised the prospect of funding greater target-testing of players they fear may be taking illicit substances.

The plan has been put to the new AFL working party on drugs, which includes four club CEOs.

Essendon chief executive Ian Robson, a member of the working party, said it would be investigated.

"It was one of the things that was mentioned by Peter Harcourt," Robson said. "We had already flagged that the clubs could be more engaged in the prospect of what target-testing looks like.

"There was a general consensus it might be one of the ways we can continue to focus on improving the policy without compromising what lies at the heart of it - the health and wellbeing of players.

"It is one of the things that emerged as a talking point for the working group. It hasn't been signed off, but it was a proposal put forward and it was welcomed by clubs."

It is understood that if the proposal was adopted, clubs could contact AFL medical officers and request more target tests on certain groups or individuals by contributing to the costs.

Robson said: "If something emerges that clubs might be alarmed by, they would want to be able to respond to that."

But he was insistent that it would be done in partnership with the AFL's illicit drugs policy.

"This would not be a green light for a range of private testing at clubs," Robson stressed.

"I don't think anyone is suggesting that we should tear up the landscape and have 18 illicit drugs policies across the clubs.

"We only want one."

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Pies take hard line

AFL Players Assoc CEO Matt Finnis, Collingwood CEO Gary Pert , AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou and Dr Peter Harcourt. Picture: Mike Keating Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD has enforced a hard-line approach to drugs, telling its players it will not tolerate them using illicit substances.

It is understood the entire playing list was recently told that they would face serious ramifications - possibly even the sack - if they failed to maintain the standards and culture of the club.

The Herald Sun can reveal that Magpies president Eddie McGuire and chief executive Gary Pert met with the playing list before Christmas to stress this point.

Pert, who late last year described the drugs issue as the most serious challenge facing AFL football, was yesterday reluctant to discuss the specifics of the meeting.

But he confirmed that Collingwood's players had never been more clear about the club's views surrounding the issue of illicit drugs.

"I don't want to go into specifics, but it is fair to say that the club is always talking to its players as part of the educational program," Pert said.

"I think, as a result of this exercise, the Collingwood Football Club has, and all clubs as a whole have, conversations with the players.

"They are very clear about the position of the board and the executive on this issue and what our standards are, and that has been made very clear to them."

The Herald Sun revealed on Tuesday that a group of Collingwood players - understood to be four - self-reported their drug taking to AFL medical officers late last season which avoided positive drug strikes.

Pert said it was frustrating that Collingwood had been publicly linked to the drugs debate as he believed it was a code and community issue, but he does not regret raising the drugs issue at the AFL CEOs meeting on the Gold Coast last November.

That spawned into yesterday's AFL drugs summit, and Pert will act as one of three AFL CEOs on the working panel to monitor and potentially change the AFL's illicit-drugs policy.

Pert said he supported AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou's comments yesterday that clubs could possibly fund the cost of more testing of AFL players.

It would cost each AFL club $10,000 per season to double the number of drug tests each season.

"If Collingwood deemed it appropriate for further target testing in the best interests of the player or players, we wouldn't let the cost get in the way of doing something that we believe is the right thing to do and in the best interest of the players," he said.

"Today was a really positive step for the industry and it was certainly appreciated by all the CEOs from all of the clubs.

"There's no doubt that by the end of the day that as a result of the discussion, the debate and the expert presentations that the industry leaders from the clubs, the Players Association and the AFL now have a level of knowledge that I don't think they have ever had before."

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Drug tests on demand

AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou and Collingwood chief executive Gary Pert speak after today's AFL drugs summit. Picture: Mike Keating Source: Herald Sun

THE AFL could approve a bold plan to allow clubs to fund the target-testing of players they believe are abusing drugs.

The league united to tackle illicit drugs at yesterday's summit with that proposal one of several to be considered by a new working party.

Among certain changes to the AFL Illicit Drugs Policy will be the closure of a loophole that allows players to self-report and escape a strike at will, and an increase in off-season hair testing - both recently flagged by the Herald Sun.

The proposal to allow clubs to target-test players they suspect of using drugs will create most debate.

Depressed, on drugs... dumped

AFL clubs are banned from conducting their own testing after then Carlton present Ian Collins controversially drug-tested players Karl Norman and Laurie Angwin in 2004.

Yesterday AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou confirmed clubs might be able to pay the league's drug testers to do that exact task.

Club sources said the AFL might also provide clubs with details of their players' drug use each year.

No names would be revealed, but a club may find out the number of players who had positive strikes, how many strikes they were on, which drugs they had used, and how many had self-reported.

Drink the link to worse behaviours

The historic summit was hailed a success by clubs, the AFL, medical experts and players, but a battle will be fought over the information flow to clubs when players test positive a second time.

Hawthorn led the charge of clubs keen to be alerted after a second strike, but that issue will be thrashed out by the working party with AFL chief executives Stuart Fox (Hawthorn), Gary Pert (Collingwood), Travis Auld (Gold Coast) and Ian Robson (Essendon).

Either the chief executive or welfare officer of a club may eventually find out about a second strike, but clubs would have to commit to extensive privacy provisions. 

Collingwood's Luke Ball and Bulldog Robert Murphy leave today's AFL drugs summit. Picture: Mike Keating Source: Herald Sun

Fox said it was imperative clubs knew earlier than under the current policy.

"Hawthorn has lived through the three-strikes system with Travis Tuck and we are quite passionate about someone at the club knowing after the second strike," he told the Herald Sun.

"Clubs are much better placed and more sophisticated, so they can deal with that knowledge."

The self-reporting loophole will almost certainly see players allowed to confess to drug use - sparing a positive strike - only once a season.

Some chief executives pushed for the practice to be banned if a player was on two strikes, or even have the self-reporting seen as a third strike.

Draft drug probes

The loophole will be changed after it goes to the AFL Commission and is approved by AFL Players' Association delegates.

AFL clubs were not given specific details on the flagged rise in illicit positives - likely to be released late next month - but were told of a 21 per cent rise in drugs across the community.

Pies boss Pert said of the playing age group: "Taking drugs is a part of their lives. We are very concerned. Every CEO is concerned about what happens now, and what happens in the future."

Collingwood takes hard line on drugs

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King up Richmond's sleeve

Richmond's Jake King fires out a handball at training. Picture: Darren Tindale. Source: Herald Sun

RICHMOND energiser Jake King is on track for his first Round 1 match in five seasons after recovering from surgery to his foot, wrist and posterior cruciate ligament.

But the Tigers have all but ruled out Nathan Foley for the traditional Carlton blockbuster, despite his encouraging progress from achilles and calf issues.

Carlton and Richmond appear on track to meet in reasonable shape, given their minimal injury lists leading into the NAB Cup.

Defenders Troy Chaplin (knee) and Dylan Grimes (hamstring) are both still in the rehab group, with Port Adelaide recruit Chaplin touch and go for Round 1.

But Richmond says the amount of work it has been able to get into its core group over the off-season is highly encouraging.

Through suspension and injury, King has missed the past four Round 1 clashes with Carlton, but he will bring just the kind of aggression the Tigers have lacked in games against their arch rival.

The Richmond coaching department was amazed at his productivity last year despite being battered by several injuries.

Tyrone Vickery has completed a solid pre-season after he had both shoulders tightened up, while Brett Deledio has overcome minor knee surgery since the end of the season.

Foley, who signed a three-year deal last year, had season-ending achilles surgery in July.

Now he needs to build up his calf strength, but seems unlikely to play in Round 1.

Richmond head of football Craig Cameron said the Tigers were in good shape.

"We had a couple who were slowed with operations prior to Christmas but our rehab group is pretty small," he said.

"At the moment I would have thought nearly everyone would be knocking the door down at the moment."

Former North Melbourne forward Aaron Edwards, who was arrested for drunkenness before he arrived at the club, has impressed his new teammates with his track form. He could be a handy foil for Coleman medallist Jack Riewoldt.

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Menzel surgery saves career

Daniel Menzel leaves the ground during his comeback match in the VFL with another knee injury. Picture supplied by Arj Giese. Source: Herald Sun

UNLUCKY Cat Daniel Menzel has had a secret third knee reconstruction.

In a desperate bid to save his AFL career, the 21-year-old has had the revolutionary LARS surgery on his left knee which he injured at training just days before Christmas.

Menzel received the all-clear from his surgeon yesterday to start running with the dynamic forward penciling in a return in the VFL by round one.

His younger brother, Troy, who was drafted to Carlton in November had LARS surgery as a 16-year-old.

"Because I'd already had two conventional reconstructions we weren't going to do a third one," Menzel said. "Two in a row is hard enough mentally, three is too much.

"Fremantle's Anthony Morabito has had exactly the same thing and he's having LARS as well because you just can't do three (reconstructions) back-to-back pretty much."

The reason for the secrecy initially was that Menzel wasn't sure whether he needed another reconstruction.

He then wanted to deal with his grief privately as he steeled himself for yet another rehabilitation program, albeit three months instead of the regulation nine.

"I never ever thought about quitting or giving up," he says.

"A lot of bad things do go through your head but the LARS is such a quick turnaround, three months, which is not long in the scheme of things."

Menzel ruptured his right knee in the 2011 qualifying final against Hawthorn which robbed him of playing in a premiership. In his VFL comeback match in June last year he tore his left ACL.

The third time was in a controlled tackling drill where he went to lay a tackle, twisted and felt something go in the knee. It wasn't painful so he kept training before realising something was wrong.

"I went to see the surgeon straight away and he said the ACL felt good but I still had scans," he said.

"Our doctor here saw the scans and thought they looked OK but then rang back and said he'd spoken to the surgeon and they weren't good."

It turned out Menzel had only ruptured two thirds of the ACL which was a positive in terms of the LARS procedure.

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Depressed, on drugs...dumped

A father of an AFL footballer delisted at the end of last year speaks out against drug use in the league. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

WE'LL call him "Dad" and give his son the name "Mick".

Mick was delisted at the end of last year by a Melbourne-based AFL club, mainly for being not good enough, but partly because he had lost all interest in playing footy.

"I've never seen him as happy as the day he got dropped from the club," Dad said, insisting on the anonymity to protect his son.

Mick didn't take drugs until last year.

His preferred choice of narcotic was speed and ecstasy tablets, all combined with alcohol.

Up to eight of his teammates also took them. It was part of the routine, Dad said, and it is why he thinks the drugs summit yesterday could be the unmasking of a huge problem at footy clubs.

"Don't think for a moment any club is clean," Dad said.

"My son's club is just one example. There can't be just one club - now let's say two after Collingwood admitted it as well - it can't be that they are the only two clubs.

"Two years ago the clubs tried to get the boys off alcohol and they all turned to the drugs, and I think now they're trying to get them to have a beer again.

"And why shouldn't they?

"You get drafted by a club, and all your mates are going out on the piss week in, week out, and you're not. And they expect you to stay clean, to stay off the beer and off the drugs for eight months of the year. It's a bloody hard gig.

"A lot would be able to do it, and not everyone is on drugs, but I reckon there would be quite a few."

Mick was a talent. He played representative football all through juniors, made the Victorian under-15s, got all the way to the Australian Institute of Sport. AFL was the logical next step.

"Unfortunately," Dad said, "the club drafted him and it was probably the worst thing that happened.

"In all that time he was going through the juniors, easily the biggest message they gave them was to stay away from drugs, that they would be tested. They were all paranoid about drugs, to the point where my son went to a party and someone was smoking dope and he panicked.

"He actually asked me, that if he walked past somebody smoking dope, did that mean it would show up somehow if you have a drug test. I said, 'No, mate, don't worry about it'. But that's how far they drummed it into them.

"It's funny, but he went to an AFL club with that attitude and within 12 months he's out there taking drugs."

And not just Mick.

"He told me he knew of about eight players who took drugs, and he said eight only because they were ones he knocked around with," Dad said. "So who knows how many others?"

The drugs issue with Mick came to a head when there was an incident during the holidays. Mick landed in hospital after taking a bad batch of drugs, and although Dad suspected his son was taking drugs during the season, it was only after the hospital scare that the full story of Mick and his teammates became real.

"I had to take him to doctors for three days, think about a psychologist - he was spinning out," Dad said.

In 2011, six players failed drugs tests.

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou has flagged a spike in positive tests for the 2012 season.

 The results are yet to be announced.

"The AFL just must not test them, mate," Dad said.

 "Mick wasn't tested. He would have told me. The AFL must think we're numbskulls, fair dinkum."

Dad accepts that Mick chose to take illegal drugs and does not abdicate responsibility for that.

"But what I'm saying is that he never thought about doing it until he got into that environment," Dad said.

He said Mick, whom he described as quiet, was prescribed medication by the club to deal with depression.

"But he never took it," Dad said. "He was depressed, and I've never seen him as happy as the day he got dropped from the club."

In the end, Mick did not leave the club on bad terms.

Dad said his own eyes had been opened to the extent of drug use in the AFL and the wider community.

"I didn't realise until my son told me," he said. "That most of his mates outside of footy take them, the blokes he plays footy with ... I can't believe it."

Mick lives at home at weekends to avoid the drugs pitfalls and plans playing suburban football this year.

"We're happy with that," Dad said. "But (there has been) very little follow-up from the club from a welfare point of view. If you are in the top 22, they won't delist you if you come with a syringe hanging out of your arm.

"When you are on the fringe they drop you like a hot potato, and that's reality."

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Common sense strikes out in drug rort

Brian Roe never had faith in the AFL's drug policy. Picture: Lindsay Moller. Source: News Limited

"A PLAYER has more chance of getting money out of a Nigerian email scam than he has of being caught under this policy."

As inflammatory remarks on the AFL's illicit drugs policy go, it is hard to eclipse the 2007 quote of Brian Roe.
Respected athletics official Roe said there were so many loopholes and escape clauses that it beggared belief a player would receive one strike, let alone three.

Six years on, the AFL's illicit-drug tests have increased from 1152 to 1489 a year, with just six players testing positive in the most recent season of testing.

The AFL argues its target-testing policy catches serial drug users. But Roe's comment came before yet more loopholes were exposed.

No player has been suspended after testing positive three times - the sole three-strikes offender Travis Tuck recorded his third strike when found unconscious by Berwick police in his car.

Why are so few players on strikes when the anecdotal evidence of drugs is so rife?

WHEN a player self-reports three times in a year, you know something is wrong with the system.
When a group of players is so determined to take drugs and escape capture that they scrutinise the little-known clause, then pass it on to rival clubs, it is a loophole that needs closing.
In essence, if a player is desperate not to get three strikes, he needs only to self-report every time the testers turn up.
He will be target-tested from then on, but at least he will dodge that pesky strike.

THE Herald Sun in 2010 exposed this loophole, which helps players who test positive again after a second strike have that test disregarded as a third strike.
The clause is reserved for players requesting treatment for drug addiction and mental health issues.
But during that period of up to several months - in which the player cannot play in the AFL - they are immune from positive strikes.
Drug experts say this period of immunity is critical for drug addicts who will relapse.
But when a large part of the policy is about the disincentive of three strikes, it becomes difficult to receive those positive tests.

AFL players are inherent risk-takers.
As one club chief executive said yesterday, they aren't worried about one positive - and confidential - strike.
So some play the percentages until they are caught, aware that some AFL clubs conduct recovery immediately after games and have periods of up to 48 hours away from the club.
That means there is a go-zone to take drugs such as cocaine, which flush out of the system in less than 24 hours. "It is like a game of Russian roulette," the official said. "Players literally look at the calendar and say, 'This is a Friday night game, I have two days off. The drug will only stay in my system for so long'."
Experts say regular use leaves remnants of the drug that is easily detected.

LAST year there were 844 players in the AFL who were tested 1489 times, which means players are tested less than twice a year on average.
Some players in recent months have been frank about playing the percentages - when testers turn up every three or four weeks, only a maximum of six players on a 42-person list are tested.

A LITTLE-known aspect of the illicit drug-testing regime is that a positive strike drops off a player's record after four seasons. It is a dramatic example, but a player in the system for 12 years could record six positive strikes spread over that period yet never be suspended.
It is believed some players have amassed three total strikes over the history of the illicit drugs policy, yet because they were spread over five or more years they faced no penalty.

IF Ben Cousins, confessed drug addict, never recorded a positive strike, how can the public retain faith in it?
The AFL told the Herald Sun in 2010 that it interviewed Cousins at length about avoiding drug tests.
He said he missed training sessions where testers were present and in his autobiography was frank about his large slice of luck.
"I settled down again (when the code was introduced in 2005) because it became a three-strikes thing. But even if I got caught, I'd have a couple of strikes up my sleeve," he said.
"I thought I'd address it when I got two strikes. And I never needed to."

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Players save themselves by dialing AFL

AFL players are saving themselves from drug tests when they believe they are in danger of being tested by self-reporting to the AFL.

CLUBS believe some players have activated the self-reporting loophole in the AFL's illicit drugs code when alerted to the presence of a tester.

A number of high-ranking club officials yesterday said they had been told players who become aware of a possible imminent test could immediately call AFL medicos to confess recent drug use.

The Herald Sun has reported that Collingwood players are among those to have confessed to drug use and dodged drug tests in the following days.

The Illicit Drugs Policy states: "A player may refer himself to the AFL Medical Officer for testing, education, counselling or treatment at any time. A player shall not be deemed to have recorded a positive test if he refers himself for such treatment prior to submitting a sample that subsequently returns a positive result."

The self-reporting loophole will be tightened today, with AFL clubs to also push for more information after a second positive drug strike.

But the AFL player union will resist, believing if club chief executives are told it raises the possibility of a player's confidentiality being breached.

The AFLPA said under the letter of the law players should not be able to self-report if the aim is to avoid an imminent positive test.

The player union said if drug testers were aware of that motive, a test would be conducted and a strike recorded if a positive result was found.

One club is believed to have had 10 incidences of six players self-reporting in 2012, with one putting his hand up three times in that period.

Critics argue those figures show players are taking advantage of the three-strikes system.

Sources say players especially those fearing they have drugs in their system are increasingly aware of the presence of drug testers which can lead to self-reporting.

Former West Coast and Richmond star Ben Cousins is known to have dodged drug tests after being alerted to the presence of testers by players already at the club.

Players who self-report are target-tested in future months, but for a player on two strikes future testing is clearly a risk worth taking.

AFLPA chief executive Matt Finnis said the policy had only recently been abused by players.

"In that very example, the player would have to do that drug test and he would be bound by any result that came from that but the policy has contained a provision which is there for a player who has used drugs, has an issue with drugs, to be able to put his hand up and seek help," he told SEN.

"That's because the nature of the policy is helping people to make change when they have made a mistake. If a player notifies, he then is able to get that assistance, be diverted into relevant programs and had he returned a subsequent policy he wouldn't be burdened with that on the basis that he's put his hand up to seek help."

One official said the policy was routinely abused.

"It can be an excuse as lame as 'my drink was spiked last night and I may have inadvertently taken drugs'," one club executive said.

"It means a player holds a Joker if he is on two strikes, a get-out-of-jail free card."

"Most players have reached a stage where they don't particularly care about one strike with some even prepared to roll the dice when on two strikes."

Confessed drug addict Cousins said he was often tipped off by teammates about the appearance of drug testers and simply failed to attend training to avoid positive tests.

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AFL must tackle drug problem

Former Collingwood star Gavin Crosisca admitted to being addicted to drugs during his playing career. Picture: Ian Currie. Source: Herald Sun

THE revelation a premiership-winning team gave up illicit drugs as part of its commitment to winning the flag first raised the red flag.

How can the AFL illicit drugs policy, and specifically its drug-testing procedures, not be detecting players?

How are the players escaping the testing?

How odd is it the players agreed to the testing for illicit drugs, a world leading program they say, and then hop right into them?

We're not talking about all players, of course, but enough of them to prompt Collingwood to initiate today's drug summit, believing illicit drug use among AFL players was now a matter of urgency.

The Magpies should be applauded for their stance.

They got kicked in the bum yesterday when it was revealed at least four players self-reported drug use to the AFL last year - and for that they got a back page of the Herald Sun - but they at least are fighting the fight.

There is an element of self-preservation admitting they had the problem before their problem was exposed.

Fact or fiction, stories of drug taking among players are common

But clubs laughing at Collingwood's expense should not be naive. If it is happening at Collingwood, it is happening elsewhere.

Anyway, back to the premiership-winning club.

It knew it had a major problem, and, driven by the players, it addressed the matter.

In a move away from traditional mission statements, the team met midway through the year - every player on the list - and a show of hands is understood to have found about a dozen players admitted they took drugs.

Then came the declaration: No more drugs for the remainder of the season.

It worked.

Not being cute, but if you listened to and accepted the AFL's version of events over the past decade of how many players take drugs, and how wonderful their drugs policy was, then drug taking was the least of the league's issues.

Finally, just as they have accepted that tanking is an agenda item, the AFL, via the Magpies, has put drug taking squarely on the agenda.

Fact or fiction, stories of drug taking among players are common.

Clubs receive calls every Monday morning, and newspapers aren't far behind. Social media is out of control.

This is not a hunting expedition on AFL players, for it is fact drug-taking is common among young people, and footballers are just that: young people.

And being rich and famous and buffed, and having the necessary self-belief, just about makes them Exhibit A for drug experimentation.

There are countless anecdotes - most recently about a group of young players from one club partaking at a popular music festival on the coast.

What about a few years ago, when, on a footy trip, one player asked who hadn't taken drugs - not who had - and only four players from more than 30 put up their hands?

One recently retired player said drug taking was commonplace at his club for at least five years.

And then there's the horror story of three former players from the one club battling drug addictions.

Add real names such as Chris Mainwaring, Gavin Crosisca and Ben Cousins - one of them is dead and the other two could have been.

Today's summit is a watershed moment.

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Dees wait to face the music

Melbourne's legal team has responded to tanking allegations levelled at former coach Dean Bailey and his assistants during the 2009 season. Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE'S legal team responded late yesterday to the AFL's tanking investigation and is now waiting to hear whether the league will lay any charges against the club.

Lawyers acting on the Demons' behalf lodged a response to the 1000-page report into suggestions Melbourne deliberately sought to lose games in 2009.

The report was compiled over a five-month period by AFL investigators Brett Clothier and Abraham Haddad and tabled six days before Christmas.

The league will decide this week whether Melbourne or any of its officials have committed any breaches relating to draft tampering and bringing the game into disrepute.

If so, it's up to the AFL commission to consider the matter at its next meeting in February.

Earlier in the day, Melbourne players gathered at the club for the 2013 team photo.

Coach Mark Neeld is buoyed by the new-look squad's preparation, and should have close to a full complement to choose from for the NAB Cup.

Mitch Clark (foot) and co-captain Jack Trengove might not return until closer to Round 1, while Ruckman Max Gawn has been placed on the long-term injury list with a hamstring tear that is expected to sideline him for two months.

Gawn missed the 2012 season due to a knee reconstruction.

Demons football manager Josh Mahoney said Gawn was "progressing well".

"We expect Max to return to playing football early in the season," Mahoney said.
 

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Drug code not fair on clubs: McGuire

Collingwood president Eddie McGuire says not just in sport, but across the wider community, the war against drugs is being lost. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

IT'S time to come clean. All sections of the community are fight losing battles in the war against drugs.

No matter how much education, how many threats are made, how many examples shown, people of all demographics take drugs. If you are into it they tell me it's as natural as having a beer. If you're not you wonder why people would ever do it?

Today's AFL drug summit has the chance to pull together what was a well-intentioned attempt to educate and protect the health of young men who play AFL and the realities that "familiarity breeds contempt".

There is no doubt that some players now hold the AFL drug code in contempt.

I hear all the stories, the rumours, about my players and players at every other club, and this summer has been the most prolific yet.

But as president of Collingwood, like my counterparts, I am powerless to sort out truth from fiction.

Believe it or not, the rights of the AFL clubs do not appear anywhere in the AFL drug policy.

Clubs have no say in the drug code until it is too late. It's not fair on the clubs, the supporters, the members, the sponsors and the players who are clean and do the right thing.

Everyone has had enough.

The erosion of the clubs' power and rights has been a gradual one over the life of the AFL Commission since it was established in 1985.

It might sound pedantic, but in recent years the AFL executive and the commission themselves have started to refer to the clubs as "stakeholders" rather than "shareholders", as if the clubs are some sponsor or auxiliary group.

It may be a subtle shift in the English language but it is seismic in its significance in the way the AFL looks at the clubs.

Let there be no mistake. The AFL has done as good a job as it can in trying to put in place a drug code that, with the support of the players, tackles the health issues of illicit drugs.

But it's not always just about the players.

It is time the clubs reasserted their role in running their players and protecting their clubs. That some players take drugs is not the AFL's fault or the clubs'.

The responsibility has to eventually start and end with the players.

Today's drug summit has the chance to get real.

The industry must build upon a foundation laid with all the good intent in the world. One that has been largely effective, but now needs refining.

Players with mental health issues need help and support. Those who are smart-arses need to be belted.

Together with the AFL we can come up with a more effective way of dealing with this problem. So maybe we have to be realistic and cop some bad headlines.

Yesterday I awoke, in the middle of a major sponsorship negotiation at Collingwood, to leaked news that Magpie players have been allegedly circumventing the spirit of the drug notification clause. Yet club officials are banned from knowing if any of their players have drug strikes.

When the Herald Sun runs a story alleging "four Collingwood players" are taking drugs the media comes chasing the officials of the Collingwood Football Club, not the AFL or the AFLPA.

Why ask me? I'm the last person to know.

The inference was the incidents happened at the end of the season, a time clubs have been saying for years can lead to "volcanic" activity as described by Collingwood CEO Gary Pert. A time when the AFL and the AFLPA legislate that clubs must stay away from its players.

It has nothing to do with Collingwood! Yet it has everything to do with Collingwood.

Clubs can no longer be left wondering about the health of their players and the reputation and security of the club when the data is available. In the end a well-run club will do the best thing for itself, the game and the players.

The AFL has a massive role to play overseeing the entire process.

A club has the right to declare to its members, supporters and sponsors that its mission statement is to be drug free.

It may not happen 100 per cent of the time, just like any family, workplace or school, but when we declare what we stand for in club land it would be nice to know we weren't making fools of ourselves with the unwitting complicity of the AFL.

Leaving aside the social issues of drugs in our society, a point I first raised with the AFL Commission in 1998 and reiterated on the back page of this paper in 2005, these drugs remain illegal.

Playing football is not compulsory. If you want to do drugs, don't play football.

These are grown men and no matter their background or circumstances players must know that drug taking is not accepted in the AFL.

At the moment players prepared to play fast and loose with their own health are also doing so with the reputation of an entire football club, even the code and even worse, their teammates who do the right thing.

Players' health and wellbeing is one thing, the reputation of the game and the clubs is just as important.

Players may not realise how close they are to organised crime when they become entangled with drugs and gambling, until it is too late.

Sensible tightening of the rules and its many loopholes is required today. It's far more than just a health issue.

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