Recently, deep in the Middle East, former Dragon Presidents Byrne and Bowski, and current President Burns were spotted boarding flights to Beirut for former President Byrne's Bucks. For purposes of security all boarded different flights. Sporting his new Baracus hairstyle, rather unsubtle spray tan, hollywood perfect teeth and bling yellow shell suit, former President Byrne was welcomed with open arms by the Lebanese Locals.

Attached is the draw, prospectucs and below a note from the Thailand Tiggers (Host) President:

Guys,

 Please find attached the draw for this Saturday.

 After considerable discussion, I would like to highlight a key change from the original prospectus:

 Players per Team per Game

• 16 players on the field
• Maximum of 8 interchange players
• Should any team feel they will experience any difficulties in fielding 16 per side, they are asked to contact the Thailand Tigers through this email address.  Likewise, any team that may have players who may not get a run with their team, and are happy to assist with teams that may need top-up players are also asked to contact us.

There is no change to the qualification to play finals:

Qualification for Finals

• Players must have played in at least 2 preliminary games to qualify for the Semi Finals
• Players must have played in at least 3 games (preliminary and/or Semi Final) to qualify for the Grand Final

A final brief will also be sent to clubs later today as a reminder of key times and responsibilities over the weekend.

Good luck to all teams, and we look forward to catching up for a beer. 

2011 Asian Champs Draw.doc

Asian Champs 2011 Prospectus.pdf

Jarrad and Alicia Crighton welcomed Mary Grace Crighton into the world Friday 22nd July 2011.

Mother and baby are doing well and proud father was able to preent a picture within minutes of request. 

Head wetting to follow!

Hello Chaps,

The first inaugural KÍLA golf society event is just around the corner!! Some customers & Mgt at Kila bar are setting up a golf society which is open for anyone to join. The aim is to sink a few pints/putts and have a laugh with some like-minded people. There will of course be a competition to play in on each day out but we welcome players of all standards.

To become a member - one off payment required!

We will charge an annual golf society fee of HK$400 for those who already have a HKGA membership or HK$750 for those without.

The HKGA membership is very useful and will mean that we won't have to go to China as often to play individually or as a group and you get an official handicap.

The cost of the above covers our golf society registration, your very own golf handicap card (if you don’t already have one), trophies (1st place, longest drive, closest to pin, etc,...), a Kila discount card of 20% off drinks outside of happy hour (bargain!) and a couple of beers and nibbles after the round in Kila bar later that evening.

We will also try to provide light refreshments on course during our events out of this fee.

Golf

We are aiming to organise a round of golf on the first weekend of each month over the coming months, depending of course on numbers. We would need a minimum of 8 which shouldn't be a problem.

First round at Kau Sai Chau golf course!

We will be organising a round on Saturday 6th August at Kau Sai Chau golf course in Sai Kung. It's a beauty of a course for those that haven't played.

Price will be HK$1200 for 18 x holes (not incl your golf society fees) and will include transfers to/from the course.

Dates to keep in mind for the remainder of this year…

Saturday 6^th August – Kau Sai Chau Golf Course, Sai Kung

Saturday 10^th September – Nansha golf course, near Zhuhai, China

Saturday 8^th October – TBC (China)

Saturday 12^th November – TBC (China)

What do I need to do to join I hear you say? 

 Well send your reply email to KILAGOLF@GMAIL.COM with a simple 'YES' and commit to pay by the 8th July and you're in. We have 40 places available for this course so sign up today! Once you’ve expressed an interest we will send a separate email outlining signing up and payment details.

*IMPORTANT – we need money up front to book the course. No paying on the day, plus this stops those of you that say they will play from pulling out after a particularly large session the night before!

PLEASE FORWARD ONTO ANYONE YOU THINK WOULD BE INTERESTED AND WILL BE AN ASSET TO OUR FINE SOCIETY

We look forward to seeing you on the course.

All the best,

Your Committee

Will Dunn - Handicap Secretary

Matt Burke - Captain

Jim Aldworth - President

Daithi O’Connell - Secretary

The final round of the home and away portion of SCAFL 2011 took place on June 4th 2011.

The Guagzhou Scorpions hosted the undefeated Hong Kong Reds in Guangzhou while the Macau Lightening took onthe Hong Kong Blues in Macau.

Returning to the place they were born, the picturesque ground at Utalhoy International School Zheng Chen, The Scorpions entered the game confident that the return of their front line ruck and a couple of key rovers would give them an edge over the visitors from Hong Kong.   This confidence seemed to be well placed in a tight 1^st quarter that saw both teams exchange goals with The Scorpions training by only 1 point at the first break. (GZ 3-2-20 vs. HKR 3-3-21)

The second quarter however was a different story.  The Hong Kong reds on ballers dominated the center and provided pin point accuracy to their front line who kicked 6 goals before The Scorpions big Man Richy “Tiny” Weisbach pulled one back late into the quarter.  MJ, Stutch and Gags all kicking multiple goals in the 2^nd quarter to go into the major break with a significant lead 9-7-61 to The Scorpions 4-3-27

The second half saw The Reds continue to dominate through the center where their rovers had all the running and dealt out a football lesson to their less experienced opponents.  Despite some strong individual efforts from Nick Anson and Remco Bohre The Scorpions were unable to hold The Reds who out scored them 4 goals to 1 in the third quarter to go into the final break leading 13-8-86 to 4-3-36.

Trailing by 50 points The Scorpions again lifted in the 4^th quarter, with the introduction of their super sub A. Nonymous (his wife does not know he played!) who kicked 3-2 for the quarter.  However The Reds matched them goal for goal and towards at the final siren had kicked another 5 goals for the quarter to take the game 18-11-119  to The Scorpions 9-9-63.

This final victory secured an unblemished record for The Hong Kong Reds in the home and away season with 6 victories.

The Reds veteran PK, in the final game of his career, stole the ball on The Scorpions goal line and rifled it through from 6 inches for what was undoubtedly the goal of the day.

Goal Kickers:

The Guangzhou Scorpions:

A. Nonymous 3, Matthew “Wazza” Warren 3, Tom Ryan 1, Nathan Liescheske 1, Richy “Tiny” Weisbach 1

The Hong Kong Reds:

Matthew Jackson 5, Matthew Gallagher 5, Dwight Stuchbery 4, Matthew Baron 2, Brian Jackson 1, Peter Kenny 1 (goal of the day)

Best of the day were Matthew Jackson, Matthew Gallagher and Dwight Stuchbery for The Reds while Nick Anson, Remco Bohre and Tom Ryan had good games for The Scorpions

After early concerns about numbers, The Blue Army assembled quite a strong side for the trip to Macau. Hospitality on arrival really set up the day with the Macau boys fully organized and ready to go. 

Playing on a ground the size of a severely demented postage stamp, the Macauians used their muscle power and height to full advantage. Andrew Wino (the prettier Wino) was an early casualty to some kind of rugby style smashing; he now has a bicep so not all was lost.

Gallant ruck efforts from Jaydon “Jaydos” Campbell and Christian Romano, meant Matt “Cookie” Cook and Travis Briggs were well fed in the engine room, which gave the forwards plenty of opportunities. In tight confines, it was the dwarf brigade doing the damage for the Blues, with Justin “Barbs” Barbaro and Shaun “Coops” Cooper putting on a show up forward. Barbs with his Lance Franklin hook foot on show for all to see. 

In a see-sawing game, the Blues managed to hold a slender two goals lead going into 3/4 time. This lead was quickly eaten up by the fast finishing home side, which had rotated fresh legs off the bench all day. With the clock running down, it was very fortunate for the travelers a Macau player ran into an open goal and proceeded to kick it right into the post. Blues by 3 points.

Some of the better rivalries were to be had in the post game celebrations, with Dwayne “The Drain” setting an unbelievable precedent... Blues challenged well with Coops the best performer.

Macau took the points in the boat race in a very strong team performance. The less said about the ferry ride the better.

But at the end of the day, the key message from the Macau boys was "the Blues boys are way better blokes than the Reds". The rivalry continues to develop, bring on the 18^th June.

The Hong Kong Dragons have recorded their fourth straight Manila Cup, overcoming a self inflicted hangover and some tough opposition in atrociously wet playing conditions at Nomad Sports Ground on Saturday 28th May. The Dragons certainly made hard work of qualifying for the final, losing two games (the Dragons record in Manila Cup was previously unblemished) before regaining their composure and form to win the Manila Cup for a fourth consecutive time.

The touring squad consisted of the following club staff and players: President Robert Burns, Captain Dwight Stuchbery, Coach Gary Wines, Assistant Coach Paul Mallia, Umpire David Varley, Club Physio Dave Garrick, Dominic Dunn, Justin Barbaro, Andrew Vize, Brian Jackson, Christian Romano and Dad Pat Romano, Ian ‘Salty’ Mcdonald, Jarrad Crighton, Jaydon Campbell, Matty Feeney, Paul Greening, Peter Kenny, Richard Drummond, Shaun Cooper, Stefan Aebi, Tim Hosford, Warrick Kendall, Will Dunn, Alex Sorlut, Christian Cook, David ‘Lips’ Kerr and Nigel Sharp.

In the days leading up to the tournament, some email banter brought about the theme of the weekend to be 'Harden Up.' In light of this, the Dragons were ferried from their luxurious five star hotel to the Nomad Sports Ground in local buses, some 45 minutes away. Hard seats, copious amounts of carbon monoxide and oppressive humidity seemed to gel into what could only be described as a 'memorable bus ride.' Coaches Wines and Mallia adapted the idea from Alistair Clarkson's recent move of banning mobile phones from Hawthorn players pre-game to inspire a more focused performance and establish better team harmony. Would such a move work by the ingenious Dragons coaches?

Game 1 - Philippine Eagles V Hong Kong Dragons
With the Dragons winning the previous three tournaments comfortably, it wasn't unreasonable to have them at short odds to be at least defending their title in the penultimate game. However, coaches Wines and Mallia were bewildered and stupefied in the knowledge that many players had a late night and abused alcohol the previous evening, breaking long established teams rules and hence an insipid and underwhelming performance was on display in their opening confrontation with the Eagles. The Philippine Eagles took full advantage of this and recorded a well deserved win. The Dragons leadership group seemed about as capable as Brenden Fevola's case manager.

Eagles 4 1 25 def Dragons 2 3 15

Best: Cook, Feeny PK, Jacko and Crights.
Goals: Cook 2.

Game 2 - Singapore Wombats V Hong Kong Dragons
After much soul searching, an expletive rant by Captain Stuch, Coach Wines and Bowski, many players overcame their hangovers, began to play in front and work more as a team. Order was restored against arch rivals Singapore. The Dragons lifted their work rate and belted the Wombats by six goals. Some fine marking and finishing in the forward line by Sharpy and Coops, improved clearance work by Jacko, Stuchy and Crights enabled the Dragons to at least re-establish their credentials within the tournament.

Dragons 9 2 56 def Wombats 3 3 21

Best: Cook, Crights, Stuchy, Coops and Wazza
Goals: Coops 3, Sharpy 2, Crights, Cook, Barbs, Aebi 1 each.

Game 3 - Jakarta Bintangs V Hong Kong Dragons
At the commencement of the third game for the Dragons, the Nomad Sports Ground now resembled a suburban swimming pool. A heavy thunderstorm slowly moved across the ground. Tournament officials even suspended play for some time until the lightning strikes abated and it was safe for players to resume to the playing field. When the Bintangs and the Dragons took to the field, torrential rain still pounded the playing surface and unfortunately for the Dragons some bad habits crept back into their game. They were soundly defeated by the slick Bintangs. The Bintangs looked a superior unit, moving the ball well in the slippery conditions. A well deserved win for the Bintangs and at that stage of the tournament were destined to be tournament favourites. Cooky, Stuchy, Crights and Jacko again played well in the middle. In defence, Feens, Wazza and Bowski were blitzkrieged with regular Bintang forward pressure, could hold their heads high at games end.

Bintangs 5 1 31 def Dragons 2 5 17

Best: Cook, Stuchy, Wazza, Jacko and Crights.
Goals: Cook and Stuchy 1 each.

Game 4 - Alabang V Hong Kong Dragons
At this stage of the tournament the Hong Kong Dragons one win and two losses. The pressure was on to improve team work and at least adapt to the wet conditions. While the Alabang side put up a decent contest, the Dragons ran out winners by six goals. Percentage could prove to be important to qualify for the final and at least the Dragons played some inspired football.

Dragons 7 3 45 def Alabang 1 2 8

Best: Coops, Romano, Vize, Crights and Hosford.
Goals: Coops 2, Romano 2, Cook, Crights, PK 1 each.

With a very even competition this year, the Dragons still had a glimmer of hope of making the finals if results went their way. They needed Jakarta to defeat Singapore. In a tight contest, the Bintangs did the Dragons a favour and hence the Dragons found themselves playing in the final after losing two games.

Manila Cup Final: Jakarta Bintangs V Hong Kong Dragons
With the grounds light now switched on, the swimming pool just got deeper. Flashbacks of Glastonbury began to surface. More rain meant deeper puddles on the playing surface. Basic wet weather football skills were required again. In what turned out to be a slug fest in mud and water, the Dragons slowly wore down a tired and depleted Bintang outfit throughout the first half. They kept the momentum going in the second half and ran out winners by seven goals. Stuchy was again outstanding for the Dragons. He was well supported by Cooky and Crights in the middle. Barbs chimed in with two goals and when Stefen 'His name is Stefan' Aebi goaled in the middle stages of the second half, the Manila Cup was again Hong Kong bound. Special mention to Matt (Dipper) Feeney for continuing to play with a punctured lung, courtesy of a solid knee to his ribs in an earlier match.

Dragons 8 4 52 def Bintangs 1 goal and a bit more

Best: Stuchy, Cooky, Crights, Jacko and Wazza.
Goals: Barbs 2, Aebi, Cook, Coops, Wilba, PK and Romano 1 each.

Special thanks to Derek Ackary and Steve Arthur of the Philippine Eagles for again organising such a terrific tournament. So great to see the local Alabang side flourish in recent times. Full marks to the Eagles. Dave Garrick for providing his physio services and David Varley his umpiring. Thanks to coaches Wines and Mallia and a huge thanks to Barbs for sorting the flight and hotel for the playing group. Congratulations to Coops for winning the goal of the day and Stuchy best afield in the final. Cooky and Coops finished the tournament with six goals each, coming equal second to the tournaments leading goal kicker.

Paul Mallia.

Sure was a wet one on Saturday. We had a pretty good team and were unlucky in the last game not to grab a win. See a bit of write up below.

It was a wet affair on Saturday as the dragons took the field at Happy Valley for round 2 of the Gaelic Summer League. This week we had Cooky, PK, Baron, Stefan, Harro, MJ and Jamie Liddle stopped off on a drop in from Holland. First game and the boys came out firing. Harro had the jet engine fired up as he racked up possessions and found himself chasing in the midfield. Baron had probably chosen the worst conditions to try out his new found vision in the midfield and soon found out how testing the amber rain storm would be when his grubber stab pass went all of 3 metres before dying in a puddle. Soon followed by PK 'droppy extraordinaire' who proceeded to attempt a drop kick in conditions that had about 1% probability of working. MJ was proving once again to be a master class in any sport involving running and kicking a ball. 

MJ - "So Baron, what's the best way to kick this round ball" 

Baron - "Just try to kick it around your body off the instep"

MJ, next possession, has a crack from just inside halfway and knocks it straight through the posts. So can you give us a few tips MJ? End result, dragons lost by 2 points after missing a few golden opportunities to score with wayward kicking with the slippery round ball. 

Stefan really got the hang of the overlap and was running amok up front. In the second game Jamie's experience was an added bonus with his height and leading prowess up forward. The dragons dominated possession in the first half and went in to half time with a sizable lead. The second half started well but as the dragon's boots filled with water, so the run began to lag. Probably the biggest absence was a quality keeper which was costly for the dragons as the paddies piled on the unders (3 points each) and overan them on the score board to win comfortably. Each week the dragons seem to do something completely random which baffles the Irish fellas, and once again this week Baron discovered that you can't place the ball on the ground as a bounce, as in AFL, ball must be dropped. Well done to the lads who came out on a wet and wild night. The next couple of weeks are going to be difficult with numbers, with the Manila tour followed by an Aussie Rules fixture the week after. Let Cooky know if you can or can't make either of the next 2 Saturday evenings so that we know if we have a team. Email - mpcooky@gmail.com or SMS 62531030

Cheers fellas,

Cooky

Saturday 29^th April 2011 - Happy Valley Racecourse

Round 3 of the SCAFL kicked off in near perfect conditions for football on Saturday 29^th April, with Hong Kong Blues hosting Guangzhou Scorpions at Happy Valley. This would prove to be a pivotal match for both teams, with the result having a huge impact on the make up of the SCAFL ladder. Victory for The Scorpions would all but sow up 2^nd spot, however The Blues were hot on their heels and keen to avenge their recent close lost to the HK Reds.

Both teams were affected by a number players pulling out in the 24 hours leading up to the game, much to the displeasure of club heavy hitters Grant Dooley and Robbie Burns. A pre game lunch was organised at the HKFC, which was a good opportunity for the players to grab a bite to eat and exchange a few recent war stories. Once the players arrived at the pitch, the mood quickly turned serious and both teams stripped down ready for action. The Blues handed over a few players to help bolster The Scorpion numbers and ensure they had some enough players rotations for the encounter.

The match was of special importance to Grant Dooley, who was playing for the first time with his 15 year old son, Callum Dooley. With a frame more akin to a 22 year old than a 15 year old, Callum thrown straight into the middle and the ploy worked unsettle the Blues midfield. The 9-a-side format allowed for a great deal of open space and both sides got off to strong starts. Jarrad “Crights” Crighton’s rich vein of form continued and he was instrumental in 2 of The Blues early goals. The Scorpions rotated Skipper Matt Warren and Callum Dooley through the middle and down forward, this ploy proved fruitful with Callum booting 2 1^st quarter goals. The only down side to first quarter being the injury to XXXX, who appeared to injury his knee. We wish him all the best for a speedy recovery. At quarter time the game was in the balance: HK Blue 3.4.22 Scorpions 2.1.13.

The 2^nd term started at a frantic pace, with both sides playing with passion and keenness for the footy. Tim Lovell was starting to have a big impact on the game and when he goaled early the Scorpions knew they were in with a real chance. Shaun Cooper was providing a handful up forward and his 2 goals in 5 minutes gave the Blues a bit of breathing space. The battle of the team captains, Matt Warren and Dom “Bowski” Dunn, was an enthralling one, with both players having an impact for their respective sides. The form of Nathan Leischke in the back half was telling as he managed to repel numerous scoring opportunities before half time. At the break the score was HK Blue 7.8.50 to Scorpions 4.5.29. It was a tight contest and although The Blues looked to have the advantage Blues Coach, Darren Flannigan, let the boys know that unless they lifted their work rate their lead would soon be reeled in. On the other side of the fence Coach Dooley encouraged his troops to maintain the pressure on the Blues and try to catch them on the counter attack where possible.  

With a smaller touring squad that expected and with a couple of injuries before half time, the second half was always going to be tough for the Scorpions. It was agreed to shorten the quarters to 10 minutes in the second half and both teams seemed happy, given the hot and humid conditions. The Blues got out of the blocks quickly and slammed on 3 quick goals to break away to a 40 point lead half way through the quarter. Ben Howell was a welcome addition to the Blues side and was racking up possessions all over the ground. Crights continued to dominate and young Tom Murphy was relishing a run in the midfield. Jaydon Campbell was having his best game in a Dragons jumper, controlling the centre bounces, kicking a goal himself and having a hand in 2 others. Paul “Greeno” Greening came on after half time and his fresh legs were telling, helping himself to one goal and assisting in another. The Scorpions weren’t to be denied and they battled on gamely. Time Lovell, Callum Dooley and Matt Warren continued to drive the ball forward and Matt “Mojo” Feeney contributed one goal and it could have been 3 had he kicked straight. By three quarter time the Blues were in control 12.9.81 to the Scorpions 5.6.36.

At the final break Coach Dooley asked his troops for one final effort, in what he promised was to be his 2^nd last career game. With the Addition of Matty Wu and Tim Hosford, the Scorpions were confident they could take it up to the Blues for the final 10 minute stanza. The first few minutes were in close tight footy, with both sides struggling to get clear possession. The class of Ben Howell and Crights eventually prevailed and the heavens opened mid way through the quarter. Two goals to Ryan Lawson, followed by singles to Christian Romano, Simon Dodd and Darren Whitfield put the result beyond doubt. True fighting spirit was show by the Scorpions, as they managed to kick the final two goals of the game. The final scores HK Blue 17.13.115 to Guangzhou Scorpions 7.7.49.

Best Players

Hong Kong Blue: Jarrad Crighton, Ben Howell, Dominic Dunn, Shaun Cooper, Thomas Murphy

Guangzhou Scorpions   Callum Cooley, Tim Lovell, Nathan Leischke, Matt Warren

Goal Kickers

Hong Kong Blue Sean Cooper 5, Ryan Lawson 3, Jarrad Crighton 2, Christian Romano, Ben Howell, Simon Dodd, Darren Whitfield, Jaydon Campbell, Thomas Murphy, Paul Greening

Guangzhou Scorpions   Callum Dooley 3, Matt Warren, Tim Lovell, Nathan Leischke, Matt Feeney

After the game both sides headed to Kila Bar for a feed and a few refreshing drinks. The day was celebrated in style and it was great to see the two Dooley boys arm in arm. The second half of Round 3 will be completed next Saturday when Macau Lightning host Hong Kong Reds in Macau.

Check the gallery for pics

Umpire Natalotto’s ANZAC Match Report

Field Umpire for yesterday’s ANZAC Friendship Match has prepared the following match report,

The spirit, heart and soul of the Vietnam Swans aussie rules football club was on display for all to see yesterday with the club hosting the special ANZAC Friendship Match against the Hong Kong Dragons. A strong and vocal crowd witnessed a fantastic day of remembrance, ceremony and excitement with the main match being preceded by speeches from the Consuls General from bothAustralia and New Zealand.

A minutes silence to pay respects for victims, families and loved ones affected by war, and many recent natural disasters was then followed by the Australian, New Zealand and Vietnamese national anthems.

Another great concept introduced by the Swans was the Legends’ Match designed to give past and present players from Hanoi and Saigon [who were not playing in the main game] a chance to get their hands on some leather and to show the crowd what football in Australia is all about. Having a go! The 14 a side friendly match finished with the narrowest of wins to the Saigon side but all players were just happy to have participated in such an innovative and significant event.

Even though it was not required, this match wet the appetite of the crowd for the main event which promised to be a tough and demanding match, with both teams having declared that they were there “to win”.

…And from the outset, the Dragons did not disappoint. They kicked the first goal and three of the first four to take an early lead and send a strong message to the home team! The Swans needed an early lift to avoid getting blasted off the park – enter Dave ‘Angry’ Hadley.

Hadley’s first half 5 goals were nothing short of inspirational and he almost single handedly lifted his team to a 27 point half time lead. His high work rate and strong presence around the half forward line was rewarded with several goals being kicked from slick “gather and snaps” after strong contests creating chances by bringing the ball to ground and applying intense forward line pressure.

After the break, the Swans presented a well structured and even-spread performance with the work being shared which brought many players into the game. It was the experienced players now coming to the top such as Nick Shiells who started to control play around the stoppages. Heath ‘Heater’ Ellis provided great run and delivery into the forward line and Asian football legends Nat ‘Mr Asia’ Payne and Kev Hornblower lighting up the field with fine second half performances. It was Hornblower who matched Hadley’s 5 goals and became the primary target down forward after star ex-AFL recruit Richard Osborne shared his services by playing the second half with the Dragons.

The Dragons – Although beaten, were in no way disgraced and applied intense pressure all day with many strong performances from their experienced squad lead commendably by full back and team captain Bowski who had several key forward opponents including Richard Osborne.

David Hadley was deservedly awarded the best player award and spoke proudly and passionately about his time at the Swans – this being his 3^rd and Final ANZAC match.

Congratulations Dave… And congratulations to the Swans on hosting a fine event with great respect and thoughtfulness for the Vets, Vietnamese and all involved.

Best (Dragons); Bowski, Dave Kerr, Dunn, Ian Mac.
Best (Swans); Hadley, Hornblower, Shiels, Ellis, Meres.

Umpires votes

• Davis Hadley (Swans), 5
• Kevin Horblower  (Swans), 4
• Nick Shiells (Swans), 3
• Bowski (Dragons), 2
• Trent Mears  (Swans), 1

Injuries: Damo Ballentine (Eye) Test

Reports: Nil

Photos:

https://picasaweb.google.com/106434882039524708748/2011ANZACFriendshipMatchVungTau

https://picasaweb.google.com/colconn57/Apr232011AnzacFootyMatch?authkey=Gv1sRgCJbpoLSM1eqRTw&feat=email

Rd 3 of SCAFL saw Guangzhou Scorpions travel to Macau to take on the Macau Lightning at Macau Stadium field in Taipa. 

The first quarter saw the Lightning get off to a flying start with a goal within the first 15secs of the opening bounce due to a centre clearances by Jas Elton that lead to Troy Harris scoring the opening goal.  Macau Lightning had control of the opening quarter with Matt Wilson crumbing off a long kick forward to run into an opening goal to score the Lightning's second goal.  With the Scorpions starting slow and Lightning backline lead by Dane Franklin and Dane Evans stopping everything that came there way in the first quarter this lead to attacking opportunities to the Lightning and saw Troy Harris kick his second goal and Lightning's third for the quarter. 1st 3-2-20 to 0-0-0.  

Second quarter saw the Lightning start like they started the first.  Quick goals in succession to Troy Harris saw the lightning extend their lead.  Scorpions lost their ruckman early in the second quarter with a thumb injury but the Scorpions fought back in the second part of the quarter with Nick Gregoriou kicking the Scorpions first followed by another goal to the Scorpions captain Matt Warren.  Just before half time saw the Scorpions lose their fullback Grant "Tom" Dooley in a marking contest that saw his fellow teammate collide with Grant and splitting his head open ruling Grant out for the rest of the game requiring 5 stitches. Lightning finished the quarter off with a goal to Brett Tolson from the boundary which saw the Lightning take a 7-2-44 to 2-2-14 lead into half time.

Third quarter saw a tight battle with no real side taking advantage of the quarter.  Matt Wilson was taking charge of the ruck contest allowing the Lightning midfields to get there hands on the ball first.  But the Scorpions held the Lightning to one goal in the third quarter with Tony Mitchell kicking the only goal for the quarter, 3qrt 8-3-51 to 2-3-15

Final quarter saw the Scorpions kick the first goal of the quarter with and exciting run by Hong Ly to finish off his great work with a goal.  Scorpions missed some early opportunities in the final quarter with Jon Hopper, Nathan Leischeke and Matt Warren all missing goals to put some score board pressure on the Lightning.  Lightning took control of the latter stages of the quarter with Tony Mitchell kicking two goals. The Lightning had all the running, while The Scorpions performance was a far cry from that seen during the opening rounds of the season.  

The Macau Lighning secured their first ever win by a healthy 49 points, 11-5-71 to 3-4-21.  This being a fair reflection of the relative performances on the day.  

The game was played in great spirit and in front of a healthy local crowd that saw Macau Lightning secure their first ever club win and also claim the Pearl River Cup.  Many Thanks to all the volunteers that help out on the day.   

 Macau Lightning Goal Kickers - Troy Harris 5, Tony Mitchell 3, Matt Wilson 1, Brett Tolson 1, Geoff Hodgson 1.

Guangzhou Scorpions Goal Kickers - Nick Gregoriou 1, Matt Warren, Hong Ly 1. 

Macau Lightning Best Players - Troy Harris, Dane Franklin, Dane Evans, Matt Wilson, Chris Rogers

Guangzhou Scorpions Best Players -  Ruud Langeveld, Remco Bohre, Nathan Leischeke, Nimrod Abarbenal, Grant Dooley.

Macau Lightning           vs    Guangzhou Scorpions

SCAFL Round 2
Hong Kong Reds Vs Hong Kong Blues
Sunday 3rd April 2011
Happy Valley Racecourse
 
 
Round 2 of the SCAFL and the first installment of the ‘battle of Hong Kong’ took place on the 3rd April with the HK Reds taking on the HK Blues inside the Happy Valley Racecourse on a mild Sunday afternoon.
 
Both sides were boasting solid numbers for the 12 a-side format and fresh legs were aplenty after the 3 week break since the opening gala round in Guangzhou. There was 1 exception however with Reds VC Brendan Kean having crossed the finish line of a 65km HK island trail race less than 1hr prior to bouncedown! Keano (typically a wiry fast paced wingman) subsequently placed himself in the forward pocket and proceeded to dish out assists via handball to all and sundry for the entire game.
 
On the small playing field available scores were always going to be high and turnovers critical and it was the Reds that jumped out of the blocks early through the solid ruck – rover combination of Jacko & Jacko (not related) in the 1st quarter. The Reds managed 5 majors for the quarter restricting the Blues to just 2.
 
After a quarter time rev up and advice on playing more ‘corridor’ footy from Darren Flanigan the Blues came out in the 2nd quarter with a new lease on life and through superb midfield work from Crights and Cooky, plus some strong finishing from Drummo and Coops up forward, the Blues slammed on the first 7 goals of the quarter and the Reds were out on their feet. 2 late quarter goals from Man Cheung kept the Reds within striking distance though and it was the Blues by 14 points at the main break.
 
The 3rd quarter saw the Reds begin a slow fight back getting within a kick at one stage but it was the Blues youngsters in Christian Romano and Thomas Murphy who had all the legs at this stage in the game. Long time Dragon and Swiss national Stefan was also very important and a couple of late Blues goals saw them maintain a lead of 9 points going into the final term.
 
The last quarter provided the most excitement all day and it was a seesawing battle for the entire 15 minutes. This game proved to be an absolute nail biter and after the Reds hit the front early with 2 quick goals through Stuch and Jacko the lead was to change 4 more times before the final siren had rung. A late assist (and his 5th of the day) from trail runner Keano allowed Wilbur to slam one through the goals and although cries of ‘touched’ were heard from the desperate Blues defenders it was all too little too late for them and with the siren sounding shortly after it was the Reds maintaining their undefeated record in the SCAFL with a 3 point win.
 
Final Scores
 
Hong Kong Red: 15-6-96
 
Hong Kong Blue: 14-9-93
 
Best Players

Hong Kong Red: Matthew Jackson, Brian Jackson, Dwight Stuchbery, William Dunn, Peter Kenny

Hong Kong Blue: Christian Cook, Jarrad Crighton, Richard Drummond, Stefan Aebi, Warwick Kendall

 

Goal Kickers

Hong Kong Red: Brian Jackson 3, William Dunn 3, Matthew Jackson 2, Dwight Stuchbery 2, Ryan Lawson 2, Man Cheung 2, Paul Greening

Hong Kong Blue: Jarrad Crighton 4, Stefan Aebi 3, Richard Drummond 3, Christian Cook 2, Christian Romano 2
 
Of particular interest was the SCAFL debut of local star Sky ‘Saints’ Takyee. Sky, originally drafted by the Blues, was presented with a last minute opportunity to play for the Reds and grabbed it with both hands possibly proving the difference in this close, hard fought game!
 
The strong crowd of Dragons supporters, mums, dads, wives, girlfriends, children and interested locals in the outer were certainly treated to a great spectacle and well done to all players involved. Also a huge thank you to those that helped out on and off the field including Flaners, Visey, Mals, Jules, Chris and Anthony.
 
The Blues now look forward to hosting Guangzhou on Saturday April the 30th whilst the Reds will be playing their round 3 match away against Macau on May the 14th.
 

In superb conditions, in front of a 300 strong roaring crowd, Hong Kong domestic footy found its way to Happy Valley on the weekend. See results below. Write to follow soon.

3^rd April 2011                     Happy Valley

Hong Kong Red                   Hong Kong Blue

Best Players

Hong Kong Red: Matthew Jackson, Brian Jackson, Dwight Stuchbery, William Dunn, Peter Kenny

Hong Kong Blue: Christian Cook, Jarrad Crighton, Richard Drummond, Stefan Aebi, Warwick Kendall

Goal Kickers

Hong Kong Red: Brian Jackson 3, William Dunn 3, Matthew Jackson 2, Dwight Stuchbery 2, Ryan Lawson 2, Man Cheung 2, Paul Greening

Hong Kong Blue: Jarrad Crighton 4, Stefan Aebi 3, Richard Drummond 3, Christian Cook 2, Christian Romano 2

Hi mate and cheers for participating in the latest edition of the Fire breather.

Brian Jackson - no relation to the colorful former VFL footballer Mark 'Jacko' Jackson are we?  

No, though I played a game a couple of years ago with two of my younger brothers and it got a bit confusing with three Jackos running around the ground. There was about 20 feet of Jackson on the field that day!
  
Jacko, you've been blessed with height, terrific footy nous and obviously know your way around a footy ground. Where and when did you first pull on the boots?

I'm from Whorouly, a small town in north-east Victoria, and played for the local team growing up - there were a lot of very handy players around the club and a great atmosphere plus there really wasn't much else to do.  I think I started playing for the Under 10 side when I was about six, so that would be probably be around 1977. (Have attached a photo, I'm up the back, third from the right).  Have played footy every year since.

I take it the Dragons football manager was not at arrivals to greet you and your family upon landing in Hong Kong. How did you actually make your way to the Dragons lair?

Before I came to HK I spent several years in London and New York and played for teams there, so I was used to the glamour of international football and keen to continue in Asia.   Plus I played with Crights back in New York and Winesy at Melbourne Uni a long, long time ago.  I couldn't believe Winesy was still playing!

How many games have you played with the Dragons thus far Jacko?

Not sure - about 10 or so I think.  Played at the 2009 Asia Champs in Kuala Lumpur and then a few home games last year, but broke my arm just before the 2010 Asia Champs.  Looking forward to an action-packed 2010.

And you’re on ground highlight so far? Talk us through that game/s please.

I actually had a run with the ball and took a bounce in one of the games last year - haven't done that since some time in the 1990s!

The Dragons veteran list has grown in recent years. Is 40 too young to be branded a 'veteran?'

Ask my wife. Actually don't.  The good thing about aging as a ruckman is that you don't really slow down that much.

I'm tipping time is precious in Jackoland; with your family, your international football career with the Dragons, working in International Finance and TV Super stardom, how do you juggle such aspects of your life?

Coffee.

(For those that may have missed the Emerging Markets Currecies segment on CNBC last week check the Dragons No.1 Rckman in action: http://www.cnbc.com/id/15840232?video=1859704507&play=1 )

And finally, how's the arm coming along and when can the Dragons faithful see you again doing your best work?

Got the all-clear from the doctor so I'm right to go and will be off to Vietnam for the ANZAC Day clash - should be a great trip.

Thanks for your time Jacko and happy 40th!

This Sunday at Happy Valley the HK Reds will take on the HK Blues in Round 2 of the SCAFL.

This provides a big opportunity for the Blues to reclaim some pride after being convincingly outplayed by the Reds in Guangzhou in March. HK Reds will have lost some of their pace in the middle with key player Troy Clements unavailable, whilst the Blues look forward to having key players Warrick Kendall, Richard Drummond and Justin Barbaro back in the side. Reds will also be strengthened with returning players Brenda Keane and Dylan Bryant. This will be a very strongly contested game with cross border rivals Guangzhou and Macau noting the outcomes looking ahead to SCAFL Round 3.

With 4 quarters of footy to play there will be plenty of opportunities for game time.

If you haven’t registered to play yet and would like to come down for a kick, let me know (president@hk-dragons.com) and I’ll get Stuch/Bowski to allocate you to a team.

Game will be played at the Rugby Pitch inside the Happy Valley Race Course. Kick off at 4pm.

SCAFL Round 2 Footy Budget available for download: Footballrecordrd2hkrvshkb.pdf

Round 1 South China Australian Football League

The opening day of the SCAFL was a huge success exceeding the expectations of all concerned.  The weather was great and the slightly less than capacity, crowd were treated to an exciting day of Aussie rules.

The venue, Guangdong University of Technology Stadium or GUTS, proved to be the perfect venue for the opening round of the competition.  The first class facilities ensuring that The Guangzhou Scorpions were able to host their visitors from Hong Kong and Macau in a style not always seen on the Asian footy scene.

The opening game saw the hosts take on Macau Lightening in the first of six 12 a side games played during the day; under an NAB Cup 15 min half format.
The Scorpions got off to a flying start and quickly opened up a 4 goal lead, with Matt Warren (captain) and Matt Harper striking early blows.  The lightening pulled back a couple late in the half, with Marty Partridge scoring from the edge of the 35 meter arc as The Scorpions intensity dropped off towards the break.  The second half saw the sides trade a couple of goals early on, before The Scorpions pulled clear and finished with a flourish eventually finishing decisive winners 11-2-68 ahead of Macau Lightening 6-2-38.  Top scorer for the Scorpions was Nathan Lieschke with 4-0 while Marty Partridge finish with 3-0 to lead the way for Macau

Game two: Hong Kong Reds take on their compatriots the Hong Kong Blues. After a long bus ride and a few last minute selection changes en route the 2 Dragons sides faced off in the first of their 2 scheduled SCAFL encounters for the season. On paper the sides looked relatively even however the Reds did have the advantage of fielding 3 of their starting midfielders from the 2010 champs including player of the champs Troy ‘Woody’ Clements which was always going to be a big advantage in a 12 a-side game with ample room to move. Both sides started strongly and weren’t giving their opposite HK colour an inch. The Reds as expected were running hard through the middle and had the better of the clearances but the defensive pressure and rebound attack from the Blues kept them well and truly in the game and at the half time break it was a couple of goals a piece. In the second half the Reds compressed the defensive running game of the Blues though and managed to find more targets up forward themselves running out the game with a 8.3.51 to 4.7.31 win. Woody and Stuch both kicked 3 for the Reds along with 2 from Wilbur. Mals was at his opportunistic best kicking 2 for the Blues, helped by Stefan and Packo with 1 each.

Game three: The Guangzhou Scorpions return to the park against the Hong Kong Blues in what was to prove to be the upset of the day.  Having decisively defeated The Scorpions in their first encounter in Dec 2010 the Hong Kong side started the game as clear favorites.  However The Scorpions entered the game with the benefit of an additional rest period and inspired by their home town support they went on a rampage that left the Hong Kong Blues stunned.  Quickly jumping out to a 4 goal lead before the Blues were able to pull one back.  Led by Grant Dooley (head coach and club patron) the Scorpions back line were an almost impenetrable wall restricting the Blues to 2-1-13 while the international squad fielded by The Scorpions added a further 5 goals to finish up at 9-4-58.  Aussie rules virgin Nick Anson (pom), Frenchman Guillaume Adam "GG" and John Browne "Casper" from Ireland all among the scorers. For the Blues, Jono and Mals worked hard up front with a goal each and Winesy Mark 2 and Burnsy resolute in defence.

Game four saw an under strength and injury depleted Macau Lightening side soundly defeated by the Hong Kong Reds, tournament favorites and tipped to take out the inaugural SCAFL championship.  Hong Kong Reds superior fitness and experience enabled them to score freely quickly running up a 6 goal lead before Macau were able to record a score.  There were flashes of the potential hidden within the Macau team as Lightening rookie Tim Jeffares went for a run down the flank eventually floating a pass to team mate Tony Mitchell who kicked a "screamer" from six meters, directly in front of the sticks. However the on-ball brigade of the Reds, and of particular note the exceptionally hard running of Jacko, was too dominant and aided by great ruck work from PK and Browny the Reds went on to an eventual 11-4-70 t 2-1-13. Full Forward Wilbur the notable goal scorer in this game finishing with 4 majors from 5 attempts.

Game five had Macau backing up against Hong Kong Blues and here again the disadvantage of a double header was clear to be seen.  From the outset the Hong Kong Blues fresher legs around the ground made all the difference and they were able to deny Macau any quality possession and quickly piled on the best score of the day.  Finishing with 11-5-71 while Macau only managed to record 4 minor scores to finish 0-4-4. Multiple goal scorers for the Blues were Will, Christiano, Jono, Mals and Coops.

The final game of the day saw Guangzhou take on the Reds, both undefeated this was the game that would decide who took the ultimate honors on the first day of the SCAFL season.  The Scorpions entered the game determined to smash their underdog tag however it was clear that at the end of a hard days football they were out gunned by the younger, fitter and more experienced Reds.  The Reds on-ball brigade of Stuch, Woody and Jacko continued their dominance from the earlier games and had the Scorpions midfield out on their feet as they struggled to stay in touch with the Reds who lead at the end of the first half 5-2-32 to 3-2-20.  In the second half the Reds were able to find much more time and space and would have accumulated a big score if their accuracy had been better finishing with 10-6-66 against The Scorpions 4-5-29. Reds captain Stuch was the standout with 5 goals for the match finishing his day with 10 straight and taking an early lead on the SCAFL goal kicking table.

That saw the Hong Kong Reds finish the day undefeated and lead the SCAFL at the end of the opening gala.  With two good wins under their belt The Guangzhou Scorpions were firmly in second place followed by Hong Kong Blues and Macau Lightening, who are yet to record a win in this inaugural season of the SCAFL.

Having completed the business end of the day all the teams celebrated the launch of the SCAFL in superb style at a function hosted by Grand Dooley consul-general of Australia in Guangzhou and his wife Kristan.  Robert Burns captain of Hong Kong Blues and president of the SCAFL congratulated the Scorpions on organizing a great start to the SCAFL season, thanked all the teams for their efforts on a day that heralds a new chapter in Asian footy.  One that saw the Hong Kong Reds take out the honors but where all agreed, the real winner was the game of Australian Rules Football!

Round 2 will be split round that will see a Hong Kong derby with the Reds and Blues playing in Hong Kong on April 2nd.  While Macau will host The Guangzhou Scorpions in Macau on April 9th where they will have the benefit of a full squad, home town knowledge and are expected to be a much tougher opposition. 

Round 1 of the newly formed South China Australian Rules Football League is set to take place at the brand new Guangzhou Cricket Ground in Southern China on Saturday 12th March. The 2 Dragons teams (reds and blues) have been formed and rivalry already fierce between the 2 sides headed by respective captains Dwight ‘Stuchy’ Stuchbery and Dom ‘Bowksi’ Dunn. Both teams will head to Guangzhou on Saturday morning departing HK at 8:30am squaring off against each other in the 2^nd game of the day scheduled to begin at 12:50pm following the opener between Guangzhou and Macau.

Full schedule of games and events as follows:

1. 12:00 - 12:35 Guangzhou vs. Macau
2. 12:50 - 13:25 HK Reds vs. HK Blues
3. 13:40 - 14:15 Guangzhou vs. HK Blues
4. 14:30 - 15:05 Macau vs. HK  Reds
5. 15:20 - 15:55 Macau vs. HK Blues
6. 16:10 - 16:45 Guangzhou vs. HK Reds

 Games to consist of 2x15 min halves, 5 min break at half time, & 15 mins between each game.

The after match function will be held at the Consul-General of Guangzhou’s residence from 6:30pm.

There is still room on the bus for any players/supporters that would like to join this tour. Please contact president@hk-dragons.com for further information.

The long awaited Dragons 2011 season got underway at Kila Bar on Saturday 19th February, with the launch of the inaugural Dragons Draft. The off season has seen a reshuffle at Dragons Headquarters, forming what some have suggested as the most powerful committee in Asian football. One of the committee's key objectives for 2011 has been the formation of the South China Australian Football League (SCAFL), which will be played out between 2 Hong Kong teams (Red and Blue), Guangzhou Scorpions and the Macau Lightning.

With a few key members in absentia, the remaining player group gathered at Kila Bar (the clubs new Friday night sponsor) for what was to be a key night in the formation of the two HK teams for the SCAFL. With the HK Reds Captain, Dwight Stutchbery, out of the country on business, Vice Captain Brendan "Keano" Kean stepped into the hot seat for draft. The HK Blues Captain, Dominic "Bowski" Dunn, kicked the evening off selecting Jarrad Crighton as the 2011 Number 1 draft pick. Keano's first selection was somewhat of a surprise to the crowd, with his selection of Gary "Wino" Wines, the experienced hard nose defender. The remaining picks for the evening went pretty much as expected with Bowski drafting a number of running utilities types and Keano drafting a number of taller options and key defenders.

See attached for the full team lists: HK Red Blue.pdf

If you dont see your name on the list and wsh to play send me an email (president@hk-dragons) and i will allocate you to a team. It's more than likely an oversight.

These are the teams that will remain throughout the 2011 SCAFL competition.  

The Dragons in their 20^th year of operation played a total of 21 games throughout the season for a 20 and 1 win/loss record. 16 of these games were international encounters with the remaining being games against the Pokfulam Vikings and the Darkside Dragons. Of particular interest is the fact there were a total of 72 individual players who pulled on a Dragons jumper to play in an international game in 2010, a stat that bodes very well for the onfield progress of the club.

Of the 72 players 28 played their first game for the club, 3 players (Christian Romano, Chris Adams & Thomas Murphy) were under the age of 18 (with Thomas being just 13 years of age when he bagged 2 majors on debut against Vietnam early in the season) and 7 were not born, nor played football, in Australia. Of the tours we had 36 players attend the Asian Champs in Shanghai (along with 6 support staff) being the largest touring squad of the year followed by 28, where we fielded 2 sides and won the annual Manila 12 a-side Cup for the 3^rd year in succession. In HK we had a total of 42 Hong Kong players at Kai Tak Oval for the China Cup weekend (again fielding 2 sides), 31 players in Stanley for the season opener against Pokfulam and Macau and 30 players at Kings Park for the Singapore tour in July.

From an individual perspective the club received its 4^th ‘Player of the Championship’ award (from 10 tournaments) when Troy ‘Woody’ Clements received this honor at the Asian Champs in Shanghai. Troy also went on to claim the coveted Ray Wood medal for the fairest & best Dragon in 2010. Interestingly this award has now been received by a South Australian on 8 occasions out of the 20 years the award has been given.  It has also been won by a player of ex SANFL or WAFL level 5 out of the past 10 years.

All in all it was a very successful year for the club and we look forward to building on that success in 2011 and beyond.

The Dragons held their annual presentation night coinciding with the clubs 20^th year anniversary on Friday 27^th November at Coast bar in Soho. 50 Dragons and Dragonettes attended the evening to celebrate the award winners for season 2010 along with the naming of the 2 teams of the decade; 90 – 09 and 00 – 09, with a dozen or so players from these two teams present to accept their selection.

Along with the yearly awards four new life members were inducted into this esteemed section of the club for their services and games played for the Dragons.

President Bowski opened proceedings with a recap on the year, Influential Dragon Farmer provided an insight into the 20 year history of the Dragons and band Dragon Bait provided the post awards entertainment rocking the crowd into the early hours with a great performance.

Award winners as follows:

• Ray Wood Best & Fairest Medal: Troy Clements
• Bruce Brown Best Clubman Award: Justin Barbaro
• Coaches Trophy: Jaydon Campbell
• Best First Year Player: Shaun Mcilroy
• Best Underage Player (Baby Dragon Award): Christian Romano
• Life Members: Gary Wines, Paul Mallia, Matthew Feeney, Dwight Stuchbery

The Hong Kong Dragons has attracted many players from all walks of life, however non more eminent than 'The Doc.' Acting as the Deputy Consul-General for the Australian Consulate, David Livingstone has represented the Hong Kong Dragons for several years since his initial secondment, commencing his playing career in 2008, resulting in 16 games
for the club.
Sadly for the Hong Kong Dragons, Dave's time in the Dragons lair will come to an abrupt end in January 2011, where he'll be taking up a position in Baghdad. What player the Dragons will receive in return from the 'Baghdad Bombers' remains to be seen.

Those who have acquainted themselves with Dave will acknowledge his professionalism and dedication to the club. Dave is built like the proverbial however, another side surfaces from him when conversing about say, recent trends in wine making techniques in the Barossa Valley or current negotiations in free trade between China and Australia.

Paul: Dave, thankfully you've not had to use your influence to assist any Dragons with foreign law agencies when on tour (Read: 'An Idiot Abroad'). What general advice would you give to the Dragons should a tour to Baghdad against the 'Baghdad Bombers' be scheduled?

Dave: Baghdad is an historic city of deep cultural significance, and I know these things are a focus for Dragons on tour. It also has bars and nightclubs of dubious repute, but there'd hardly be time to consider them given the number of museums and galleries to see.

Paul: Your football career in Australia. Where and when did you first don the boots and have you always been a specialist ruck man?

Dave: The first non-school football team I played for was Nunawading (EDFL) in 1973. I used to play centre-half back, but I could run in those days.

Paul:  Who was the most talented player you either played with or witnessed during your time as a Dragon?

Dave: I've played with so many really talented players in the Dragons. A few that come to mind are Woody, Stuch, Barbs, Gags, Jono, Josh, and Matty Baron. But that list doesn't do justice to the many others that I've admired, including all the players who play with a lot of heart and never hesitate to put their head over the ball. And then we have the new generation coming through - Chris, Christopher and Thomas, all of who have courage and skill.

Paul: What tour and or game is a standout for you?

Dave: The 2008 Manila tour was a stand out for me as the first tour with the Dragons and winning the Manila Cup. A great experience. The Champs this year also stood out because the guys from Dubai Heat collared me at the end of the dinner to tell me of their admiration for the Dragons. They said the Dragons were the best team they had played in the competition, and that the Dragons never failed to take it up to Dubai physically. Dubai
always had a fight and a tough match on their hands against the Dragons.
Of course they were pissed, but they were heart-felt compliments. Naturally I was pretty proud to hear it. The Dragons are a great team. The players have skill, but more importantly they play as a team and with a lot of heart. It is why I have always thought I wouldn't want to play for any other team.

Paul:  Dave, I've noticed you're a Graduate of the Royal Australian Navy Staff College. Are you still an avid fan of 'The Village People?'

Dave:  A lot of people have insisted to me that the Village People have been replaced by the Singapore Wombats. I'm not sure that's true, but it is something I wouldn't want to test in the showers after a match.

Paul:  Dave, your job enables you to rub shoulders with many people from all walks of life. While meeting the usual array of business people and dignitaries, who's  been some of the more memorable individuals, you've met? 

Dave: In most countries that I work, there's the usual suspects of rich and famous whose decent Scotch I get to drink. But the most memorable are the people who do great things for others. In Ethiopia there's an Australian woman, Catherine Hamlin, who started a hospital for women. The hospital has changed the lives of thousands of people in that struggling country, and I really admire her and the others who dedicate their lives there.
http://www.hamlinfistula.org.au/

Paul: You've certainly left your mark on the club. Finally, any message for current and aspiring Dragons?

Dave: I'd just like to thank the people behind the scenes that do a lot of work for the club - Boges, Bowski, Stuch, Barbs, and others, and of course, the coach, Winsey.  And thanks to all the Dragons I've had the honour of playing with. I am grateful for the welcome and mateship that they gave an arthritic dinosaur, even though my style of play is stuck in a time warp from another  era, and that I've missed some of the key events on tour. It is that
generous spirit that makes the Dragons a great team, and it is a player's good fortune to join the Dragons.

Paul:  Cheers Dave. Congratulations on your time with the Dragons and all the best to you with your future endeavours.

Paul 'Mals' Mallia.

ladders

morning session

afternoon session

The Hong Kong Dragons have pulled off an impressive third position in the 11^th annual Asian Championships in Shanghai on 16 October 2010.  Dubai won their third straight title beating the Dragons in the semi-final and Singapore in the final.

A record 12 teams competed in 2010, up from 10 last year.  

The Dragons came out happy with the way we performed having significantly bridged the gap to Dubai.  It was a shame we were on their side of the draw as we were confident we could have rolled Singapore and made it to the final.

The weekend promised to be a big weekend all round and failed to disappoint, with the first ever game between 2 AFL domestic sides (Brisbane and Melbourne) on Sunday following the international action on Saturday.

The Dragons first game of the day saw us pitted against the Laos Elephants.  Mid-fielders Woody and Stuch showed the way early as we trounced the Elephants to get the confidence up early.  The Dragons won 4.3.27 to 0.2.2.

Goal scorers:  Woody, Doddsy, Tarquin, Jolly.

Best:  Stuch, Woody, Nige, Doddsy, Jono.

Second game was against an under-strength Thailand Tigers.  As expected, the Dragons gave the Tigers and football lesson to hold onto the Hamilton-Reddell Cup.  The Dragons slammed on 6 goals in the 20 minute contest and kept the Tigers to zero wickets.  Dragons 6.7.43 to Tigers 0.0.0

Goal scorers:  Woody 2, Jamie 2, MJ, Jolly.

Best:  Woody, Jolly, MJ, Jamie, Riggsy

Following the two victories, the Dragons had qualified for a quarter final against host team China.  China had been impressive early running Dubai close and beating Macau.  However, the Dragons put on an excellent performance which had the competition concerned.  Ben Howell had his best game for the Dragons to date off half back as Woody and MJ dominated in the midfield.  New ruckman Stevo also was a welcome addition to the side.  Final scores – Dragons 7.4.46 China 0.1.1.

Goal scorers:  MJ 2, Tarquin, Jolly, Woody, Crights, Stuch.

Best:  Ben H, Woody, Keano, MJ, Shaun M.

The Dragons had now qualified for the semi-final and were the only side that the opposition hadn’t scored a goal against.  The draw had us on the same side as Dubai, while Singapore played Indonesia (Bali/Jakarta) in the other semi at the same time.  The game was a fierce contest throughout.  At half time, Dubai led 1.1 to 1.0.  Tarquin kicked close to goal of the day late in the first half.  Stuch and Woody continued their dominance of the tournament and big Jon was standing up in defense.  While the contest continued to be tight in the second half, Dubai took their opportunities more than the Dragons and won the game 5.1.31 to 2.2.14.  The score was a bit misleading, particularly since Dubai kicked 2 goals in the last 3 minutes.  It was a great effort by the Dragons given that nobody could get near Dubai for the past two Championships.

Goal scorers:  Tarquin, Stuch.

Best:  Stuch, Tarquin, Jono, Woody, Stevo.

As Singapore had defeated Indonesia in the other semi, the Dragons had one more game – against Indonesia in the play-off for third spot.  Woody gave a great motivational rev up before the game.  It was decided to give as many players as possible a run in this game and 28 guys managed to get on the park through the course of 24 minutes.  Whilst trying to manage the 28 guys and still win the game, coach Wines did a tremendous job and we kept Indonesia at bay for the whole game.  The Dragons won 7.2.44 to 4.3.27.  Jules Lewis the hero at the end with goal of the day that sealed third spot.

Goal scorers:  Ben H 2, Barbs, Jules, Tarquin, Keano, Wilbur.

Best:  Stuch, Woody, Ben H, Jules, Jamie.

Dubai went onto to beat Singapore in the final running away with it in the second half after a close fought first half.

Woody did the Dragons proud taking the player of the tournament award and Woody and Stuch made the All-Asian team.

The Saturday night function was a sit down dinner which was attended by ex-AFL players Brian Taylor, Stephen Silvagni, Paul Salmon and Paul Licuria.  Sunday was a very enjoyable day watching the Brisbane Lions take on the Melbourne Demons.  Liam Jurrah the star as Melbourne won in the last minute.  All the AFL players were very approachable and a few good stories were told and some great pocket p*ssing had.

Thanks to all the players, administrators, coach Wines, Barbs (tour manager and player) and the rest of the committee. The Dragons will be back next year looking to take back the crown from Dubai.

Michael “Farmer” Robertson

In a big day for the Dragons Carlton great and 2010 St Kilda assistant coach Stephen (SOS) Silvagni has provided a huge boost to the teams Asian Champs preparations attending training at Kai Tak oval on Saturday October the 9th. SOS took the Dragons for approximately 45 minutes running through a number of exercises and drills for the 30 players in attendance. Focussing on ground balls, contested possessions and creating space for running players the Dragons hope to take the skills learnt and advice passed on by the 300+ game great into Saturdays Championships in Shanghai.

In the fourth and final instalment of You've Been Infarmed for 2010 - the Dragons 20th year - we take you to the MCG for Farmer's personal account of the drawn 2010 grand final between St Kilda and Collingwood.

The 2010 grand final promised something special before I had even left Hong Kong for a holiday in Perth on Thursday.  Ex-Dragons vice captain and fellow keen Saints fan Jarran Niel called me from Melbourne to inquire as to whether I would fly to Melbourne if he could get me a MCC members pass.  That was like asking Fev if he was keen for another beer, and flights were rearranged for an arrival in Melbourne on Friday night.

After 3 hours sleep, it was down to the MCG at 5am on Saturday to que up to get the best seats in the MCC members reserve.  With two Melbourne based clubs playing, the line was as long as most had ever seen, curling around the MCG and down to Punt Road.  Gates opened at 8am and the rush for seats began.  As Jarran had reserved a seat, I got one nearby on the wing on the lower deck.  Excellent spot.  Tickets were handed out for the seats and by 9am it was off for breakfast and boozing before the bounce.

I was back in time for the pre-game entertainment and to see JD Fortune and INXS rock the MCG.  It was dry and warm which was a far cry from the 2009 debacle.

Before I knew it, the game was on.  25 seconds into the game Darren Jolly had scored a goal.  Then a couple more.   Oh no.  The Saints then steadied to make it 6 points down at quarter time.

Second quarter was all Collingwood.  If not for the fact Travis Cloke supported St Kilda as a kid, it would have been all over.  Fortunately it was only a 24 point margin.  Comeback unlikely but possible.  The odds on the big screen had us at $5.50 to win.

After the world class half time entertainment of Auskick, the third quarter started with hope that we would get the first goal.  Done.  Then the next and the next while Collingwood sprayed points.  The intensity had lifted.  8 points at three quarter time.  The Collingwood bogan on one side of me did not say a word for the quarter after calling every move in the first half.

The nerves of 2009 had returned.  At least this time it was warm.  I could sense something special as the PA system played 30 seconds or so of the Foo Fighters "My Hero".  Would there be a hero?  Who was it going to be?  Barry Breen was warming up on the Saints bench.  Travis Cloke was sh*tting himself.

A few minutes of early grind in the last before Neon Leon (who we now know got that nickname from boozing in Wan Chai the night before grand finals) kicked a goal with his first kick in a grand final.  An outstanding effort considering it was his third big dance.  It looked like a big enough gap given the intensity and low scoring game.

However, that is when the fun started.  Lenny Hayes kicked a long goal, Milne out positioned Harry for a mark and goal and the Saints were suddenly level.  Goddard and Hayes everywhere.  Then Lenny won a crucial clearance and kicked it to the hot spot.  Goddard streaming down the right flank was in perfect position and flew for a screamer.  He went back and converted to put the Saints up for the first time all day.  He looked to be the hero.  The clock on the silo said 19 minutes in, so plenty of time but the cards seemed to have fallen our way.

Then another point from big Trav made it a 5 point margin.  Collingwood now suddenly seemed to be doing the attacking.  A long kick into their forward line came off hands to Chris Dawes (rumor has it he is the son of Marjorie Dawes from Fat Fighters on Little Britain) who got it to Trav who ran into an open goal.  Saints now 1 point down and the ticker was going flat out.  Collingwood again went forward.  A Dawes shot was touched 5 metres out but knocked out of bounds.  Then Sidebottom had a ping only for Gwilt to mark on the line.  About 2 minutes to go.  The Saints then finally went forward when Riewoldt took a big mark on the wing, then Hayes had a rushed kick forward under pressure.  The ball was kicked from almost the identical spot to Barry Breen in 1966 and went though for a point.  Scores level.  The clock on the silo said 30 minutes gone.  I knew then it would be a draw.  Lots of congestion followed before the siren and the realisation it was indeed a draw.  What a game!  The crowd was stunned.  In something I had never seen before, opposition supporters were all mates - shaking hands and hugging.  We had witnessed something special.

I asked the old bloke next to me if he was here in 1977, to which he replied "and 1948".  How many people can say that?!

What a day and what a game.  History will show we got belted in the replay but I will never forget being at the drawn grand final in a brilliant game.  I am and will continue to be a very proud St Kilda fan and thank Jarran for making the experience possible.

It’s not just mad dogs and Englishmen that come out in the midday tropical sun. A hearty breed of sportsmen in Hong Kong have taken a traditionally winter sport and thrown themselves into it through the midst of Hong Kong’s oppressive summers.

The Hong Kong Dragons have for 20 years plied their unusual brand of football known as Australian Rules. An extremely physical and fast-paced game often dubbed by outsiders as “Australian No-Rules”, it a unique Australian game with mass appeal. A crowd of almost 100,000 will converge on the hallowed turf of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (known universally as The G) to watch the nation’s two best teams go at each other for “100 minutes” on Sept 25.

While the best of Australia’s domestic footballers generate acres of media coverage and soar to national stardom, the Dragons’ will be staking claim to the grander title of international footballers, as they continue training towards to the annual Asian Championships.

See article for full details...

019 HK EET_B8 SPORT_final_low res.pdf

Saturday 2nd October 2010: 11:00am – 4:30pm

Harbour View Rooms, 3/F The Excelsior Hotel, 281 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay

HK400 Adults & HK200 Kids - for all you can drink beer, wine and softdrinks plus a 'footy inspired' buffet lunch & free entry into our awesome door prize raffle. Special door prize for kids as well!

See attachment for details

GF Replay.pdf

Darren and Rachel Whitfield are proud to announce the bith of ther first daughter Isla Christine Whitfield. She was born 8:38am on Saturday the 18th of Sept, 2.65kg/5.8lbs, pretty good for 4 weeks early!
Daz says "We're getting her used to the Blue and Red colours already, I'm thinking we can start the Dragons "Foot High Fan Club" with all the Dragons babies born this year! We'll need to put in the order for another XXXS Dragons guernsey for next year!"

Rookie Dragon Chris Adams recently made the press in the presitigious AIS bi-annual newsletter:

http://www.aishk.edu.hk/images/news/newsletter/lion_vol6.pdf

Harry Matthew Gallagher, son of current Dragon star Matthew "Gaggs" Gallagher, was born on August 22nd and weighed an impressive 8lb 6oz. According to Matt he "looks to be a good key position prospect with a great set of dukes on him!!".

Just like the AFL introducing Friday night football 25 years ago, the first installment of Sunday football came to Asia on 5 September 2010 with the Hong Kong Dragons hosting the China cup.  The China Reds visited with a combined team from Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhau.  The Macau Lightning (or soon to be called Mac-Cowboys) also played.  The Dragons with a solid 42 players entered two teams with the talent spread evenly across both sides.
 
For the first time (after two failed previous attempts due to black rain), we got onto the Kai Tak oval - the place where the Kai Tak rules were invented.  The ground was in great nick.
 
The local derby was the first game of the day between the Fenwick Cats (white) and Wanchai Demons (blue).  The teams were evened up quite nicely by coach Wino and the scoreboard reflected that for most of the game.  The final score saw the Blue team kick poorly, but get away with a win after kicking two goals deep into time on.  Final score was 5.11.41 to 5.0.30.  New recruit from Ballarat Tarquin was liking the Hong Kong surroundings and took a few screamers during the game.  
 
Second game was a break for the locals as China and Macau slogged it out.  China won easily 7.6.48 to 2.1.13.
 
The blue Dragons were then out again to take on Macau.  Not expected to be the closest match of the day was the call from the Dragons cheer squad and it proved correct.  Macau were spent half way through the second half and called the game off, being happy with the fact they had scored and wanted to do some boozing.  Final score was 9.2.56 to 0.1.1.
 
As Macau hopped into the local brew kindly served up by Mrs Wines, the games continued and the white Dragons squared off against China.  China brought there A game in the first half and were right in the contest.  The Dragons went into half time one point to the good.  Winesy was not too upset with the effort as China were playing well, but quietly pointed out a few issues.  Whippet went to tag China’s onballer Belly who was dominating and Stu and M Jacko lifted in the midfield.  Riggsy relishing a run up forward was also providing a target and PK at fullback was stopping everything that came his way.  A few other cameos by almost every player got the desired result for the Dragons and we went on to win 5.5.35 to 4.1.25.
 
Final game of the day was blue Dragons v China.  A handful of players from the game before decided to have one more run for the Dragons for the day which was fine by the coach so we could hopefully finish off strongly for the day.  The Dragons started well for the first quarter of the game but were not putting scoreboard pressure on.  China managed to make the Dragons pay with a couple of goals in the first half, but the Dragons always held a slight edge with class all over the field and fresh legs rotating off the bench.  Half time Dragons 3.2 to China 2.0.  China ran out of legs in the second half as the Dragons took control.  Woody kept adding to his goal kicking list at international level and players all over the field were providing spark.  Will Burgess managed to snare goal of the day in the dying minutes.  The only dark point of the game was a broken arm to B Jacko.  Get well soon mate.  Final score 8.6.54 to 2.2.14.
 
After singing the family version of the team song it was time for a cold beer only to realize the Macauboys had drunk them all!  Superstar Doddsy kindly put his hand up to save the day and race off to the local bottle shop to keep the team and faithful happy.
 
At the presentations Bowski presented the China cup to Dragons coach and captain Winesy and Stuch.  Player of the day went to Tarquin who will be a very handy inclusion at the Asian Champs.  Woody once again was leading goal scorer.  Stuch took out the David Kerr award for most points.
 
Thanks to China, Macau, Dragons team, supporters, groupies and the groundsman.  The Dragons Committee also did a great job organizing most of the logistics that is often overlooked, so well done fellas.
 
Bring on the Asian Champs in Shanghai!

Check out the gallery here...

Farmer

 Sunday 5th September, 12:00 noon

Kai Tak Oval, Dakota Drive (off Olympic Avenue) Kowloon City, Kowloon

See the attachment for details: THECHINACUP.pdf or contact his eminence:president@hk-dragons.com for further details

On 5 September 2010 the China Cup comes to Hong Kong for the first time.

From its origins in 2003 when HK played Shanghai in Shanghai during SARS, this cup has grown in significance and five teams will compete for the cup this time – China Reds, Guangzhou, Macau, Hong Kong Dragons and Hong Kong rebel group the Pok Fulam Vikings (arghh!).

The first game in 2003 was almost cancelled due to the onset of SARS meaning several Hong Kong players pulled out of the trip with the fear of catching SARS on the flight to Shanghai.  There was also the concern from the Dragons key man insurance provider that key Dragons powerbrokers (the coach and president) could not fly on the same plane.  However, these issues were all resolved and the Hong Kong boys were able to get to Shanghai and thump the locals by 80 points.

Previous battles for the cup have seen Hong Kong compete against China in Shanghai 3 times and once in Beijing.  Beijing and Shanghai have also played each other several times.

Sunday promises to be a huge afternoon with some good football on display.  The Farm guide would suggest Guangzhou and Macau will be underdogs as developing teams and Pok Fulam to be too old.  Therefore it should be down to the Hong Kong Dragons and China Reds.  The Dragons at home are hard to beat, but the China Reds are assembling a pretty good side in the lead-up to hosting the Asian Championships in Shanghai in October.

Come down to Kai Tak oval and see the big men fly (or stay on the ground) this Sunday!

Farmer

Being international athletes, it would come as no surprise that the Dragons football club has had a few moments with farmous people.  Here is just a snippet:

• Australian Prime Minister.  John Howard appeared at the 2003 Bali 9s tournament which the Dragons competed in.  This was the first anniversary of the tragic Bali bombings.  “Today is a great day in Australian sport.  Matthew Hayden has made a record 380 runs, the Wallabies won their first game over Argentina at the world cup and the Batemans Bay Seahawks have won the Bali 9s”  Mr Howard said before presenting the cup.  Pity it was not the Dragons who won it.

• Hong Kong racing fraternity.  Trainer David Hayes was a long time player for the Dragons.  It may not be that well known that Haysey played SANFL football.  As he will tell you, he kicked a bag of 7 goals in his last game and then retired as it could only go downhill from there.  Damien Oliver once also laced on a boot for the Dragons while in town in the late 1990s.

•  Conroy Chan.  Conroy played a few games in the late 1990s and early 2000s.  He went on to marry Josie Ho (Stanley’s daughter) and is now a famous Hong Kong actor and musician in his own right.

•  Mark Seymour.  Mark Seymour was present at a tournament in Ho Chi Mihn in 1998 that the Dragons competed in.  Mark managed to get on the ground briefly, but saved his best for the night when he got on stage with the band at the post-game function to sing a couple of Hunters classics.  Dragons rock duo Mega and Macca were very impressed!

•  1999 grand final.  The 1999 grand final in Hong Kong was attended by several AFL players.  Matthew Nicks, Scott West, Brett Montgomery and Andrew Thompson.  They were flown up by sponsor Ansett.  Scott West in particular was given a welcome by the club, being called a finals choker (based on their effort in the 1997 and 1998 preliminary finals) by an unnamed Dragon who West promptly sent tumbling to the floor with nothing more than a push in the chest!

•  Barry Cable.  Arguably WA’s best ever footballer, Barry Cable attended the 2005 grand final in Hong Kong sponsored by Steve Douglas from SMATS.  It was good Australian common sense.  While setting up the function room, Barry came in for a chat and showed player Nathan Byrne that he had not lost his handballing skills by sending him reeling with one in the bread basket from 20 yards.

•  Darwin media storm in 1997.  The Dragons competed at the Arafura games in 1995, 1997 and 1999.  1997 is the year that will be best remembered by the media outlets due to the controversial tour t-shirts.  The team runner wearing the t-shirt during a game in front of 2,000 people didn’t help.  There were several letters to the editor of the Darwin Daily and a cartoon that appeared in the paper in reference to it.  The shirt was a black t-shirt with “No Fat Chicks” written in large letters across the front.  What could possibly go wrong?

Club Stalwart Farmer, knocking back a tin while working on the Tan in the famous Darwin 199 Tour - chek the gallery for more pics...

On Sunday 25th July, former Dragons (and one still presently playing) gathered at the MCG as special guests for the Melbourne FC Coterie Group luncheon held in the Jim Stynes Room. While Melbourne blew Sydney off the park, much intrigue surrounded the gathered international footballers.

The luncheon hosted 140 guests. When the Dragons were introduced, a hearty Melbourneske round of applause 'if you don't mind old chum  - well done olde boy - hurahh' welcomed them. As international footballers, the Dragons all took the attention and kudos in their stride.

Club founder Ray Wood and former Dragon Bruce Brown organised the gathering. Woody even managed to dig out  the Fosters Cup won by the Dragons on the 6th June, 1998 against Saigon. This prompted many interested punters at the luncheon to inquire about the 'myth of the Dragon.' Woody was all too happy to endear those who were in his presence with Dragon related tales. While the author of this article recalls listening about certain heroics of the said game, the Carlton Draught took its toll by mid-arvo, hence I'm unable to elaborate any specifics. By all reports Glen Fleisher, Colin Reid, Bruce Brown, Garth Mc Lardie, and John Thompson represented the Dragons jumper with aplomb.

Woody certainly had many tales to tell, another relating to kicking drop kicks against rather ordinary opposition. Perhaps best I retell that snippet another time...........

Gathered on table 10 were members of the now famed (apologies Farm but it can't be 'Farmed' as you weren't at the 2007 Champs) 2007 Asian Champs winning side. In conjunction to Tony Tere and Dale Cooney were several 2007 Asian Championship players; Matty 'I'm Hard' Campbell, Nathan 'Light Me' Byrne, Paul 'The Falcon' Mallia, Chris 'Angry Man' Nicolay and Shannon 'Shags' Morgan. They reminissed about that drawn Grand Final that went  into extra time, with the Dragons finishing the stronger unit against the Bali Gekos by 17 points. Byrnesy was rather emotional (again), reliving some of those special moments.

As the afternoon wore on, much interest surrounded what Garth Mc Lardie had to say about how the Dragons club song came into fruition. Watch this space for an interview with Garth in the coming weeks.

At the conclusion of the function, the Dragons left behind many new admirers and proceeded to stagger across Punt Road to sample some beers at some of the more iconic post football watering holes. Unfortunately, the security staff took one look at the elder Dragon contingent and entry was duly denied.

The Dragons then managed to talk their way into the trendy Precint Hotel - Bridge Road, somehow convincing a flat-nosed bouncer with pursed lips and a kiwi accent to set aside his dislike for international AFL stars and lower the drawbridge to amber fluid heaven.

Special thanks to Ray Wood and Bruce Brown for organising this memorable event. Quite a number of Dragons travelled vast distances to attend this reunion which in itself highlights the strong ties the club has, be it for present and or past players.

I'm already looking forward to the 2011 Dragons Reunion.

If you're interested in attending this event next year, please contact president@hk-dragons.com.

Paul Mallia

Email to HK Dragons president from Vietnam Swans President Phil Johns: 

From: Vietnam Swans [mailto:vietnamswans@gmail.com]

Sent: Wednesday, 21 July 2010 2:58 PM
To: Dunn, Dominic
Subject: Invitation to the 2011 ANZAC Friendship Match, Vietnam

Hi Bowski

On behalf of the Vietnam Swans, it is my great pleasure to invite the Hong Kong Dragons to be the first international team to tour Vietnam for the 2011 ANZAC Friendship Match in Vung Tau (75 minute hydrofoil ride from Saigon), Vietnam.

This year, the Vietnam Swans played an internal match on ANZAC weekend between the Hanoi Hawks and Saigon Saints. It was a stunning success which attracted the interest of the Vietnam Veterans and a crowd of 400. We also managed to successfully negotiate the political sensitivities involved in playing a match in Vietnam on ANZAC weekend.

It is proposed that the 2011 match would be played on Saturday 23 April at the Vung Tau greyhound racing track (where they used to play footy during the War). On the Sunday, a tour of battlefield sites would be organised and possibly a visit to an orphanage. For those who are able to stay an extra day, they would be able to attend the ANZAC Day Dawn Service at the Long Tan Cross. Afterwards, we would watch the Collingwood Vs Essendon match at Tommy's Bar in Vung Tau before returning to HCMC. Depending upon when the visiting team has to leave, transport would be organised accordingly from Vung Tau to the airport.

Please find attached a copy of a presentation that was prepared following this year's inaugural ANZAC Friendship Match which should give you a good flavour of what happens.

We really believe that our footy match can play a significant role in the healing process between Vietnam and Australia. Our links with the Vietnam Veterans are strengthening rapidly and they are extremely supportive of our match. If Hong Kong was able to tour in 2011, we believe it will further strengthen these relationships.

If possible, I would really appreciate it if the Hong Kong Dragons could confirm whether they would be able to tour on ANZAC Weekend 2011 prior to Sunday 25 July (in 4 days time). This Sunday, the Vietnam Swans will be having a reunion at the MCG. The Sydney Swans have invited the Vietnam Swans to their pre match function which we have accepted - and we have also invited a dozen Vietnam Veterans to attend who played footy in Vietnam during the War. In short, it would make an ideal opportunity for the Vietnam Swans to announce details of our 2011 ANZAC Match.

Should you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me and I trust that the Hong Kong Dragons will be able to make the ANZAC tour in 2011 to Vung Tau.

It will be a cracker, Bowski.

Regards

Phil 

Inaugural ANZAC Friendship Match.pdf

Welcome to our newly re-designed website! The launch of our new website is a big deal to us and we hope you find the changes useful. 

We wanted to overhaul the look and feel, continue to provide up to date HK Dragons News while continuing to provide some entertainment for ye faithful.

New areas of the website we hope you will enjoy include: 

• Dragons Calendar - plan your whole year around Dragon Events; 
• DragonTube - our own YouTube channel we will be using to post interviews with current players, former greats as well as posting game/tour footage; 
• Gallery - regular albums uploaded of Dragons in action.

Please bear with us we are still migrating the data from the old website across.

Full stats, scores and awards from Manila

29 June 2010 All scores:
China Reds 4 2 26 v Malaysian Warriors 4 4 28
Singapore Wombats 4 6 30 v Darkside Dragons 0 4 4
Philippine Eagles 0 3 3 v Hong Kong Dragons 9 4 58
Jakarta Bintangs 4 3 27 v China Reds 5 4 34
Malaysian Warriors 12 0 72 v Singapore Wombats 2 3 15
Darkside Dragons 2 2 14 v Philippine Eagles 5 4 34
Hong Kong Dragons 9 2 56 v China Reds 1 2 8
Jakarta Bintangs 3 3 21 v Singapore Wombats 4 2 26
Malaysian Wombats 8 2 50 v Philippine Eagles 2 2 14
Darkside Dragons 0 0 0 v China Reds 8 3 51
Hong Kong Dragons 7 8 50 v Singapore Wombats 0 1 1
Jakarta Bintangs 4 2 26 v Philippine Eagles 4 2 26
Malaysian Warriors 8 4 52 v Darkside Dragons 0 0 0
Singapore Wombats 0 1 1 v China Reds 10 1 61
Jakarta Bintangs 1 0 6 v Hong Kong Dragons 11 1 67
Philippine Eagles 4 2 26 v Singapore Wombats 3 2 20
Jakarta Bintangs 3 3 21 v Malaysian Warriors 3 2 20
Darkside Dragons 2 1 13 v Hong Kong Dragons 11 4 70
China Reds 9 6 60 v Philippine Eagles 2 1 13
20 1 Jakarta Bintangs 9 5 59 v Darkside Dragons 2 0 12


GRAND FINAL
Malaysian Warriors 1 1 7 v Hong Kong Dragons 6 3 39

Team Won Lost For Against % Points
Hong Kong Dragons 4 0 179 82 218.29 16
Malaysian Warriors 3 1 133 82 162.20 12
China Reds 2 2 162 108 150.00 8
Philippine Eagles 1 3 94 154 61.04 4
Hongila Dogs 0 4 43 185 23.24 0

Manila Cup match results:
Game 1 Goals Behinds Total
Hong Kong Dragons 4 5 29
China Reds China Reds 4 3 27

Game 2 Goals Behinds Total
Hongila Dogs 1 0 6
Malaysian Warriors 4 7 31

Game 3 Goals Behinds Total
Philippine Eagles 2 1 13
Hong Kong Dragons 9 2 56

Game 4 Goals Behinds Total
China Reds 9 3 57
Hongila Dogs 0 0 0

Game 5 Goals Behinds Total
Malaysian Warriors 2 2 14
Hong Kong Dragons 6 6 42

Game 6 Goals Behinds Total
Philippine Eagles 4 3 27
China Reds 8 5 53

Game 7 Goals Behinds Total
Philippine Eagles 7 3 45
Hongila Dogs 1 3 9

Game 8 Goals Behinds Total
China Reds 4 1 25
Malaysian Warriors 8 4 52

Game 9 Goals Behinds Total
Hongila Dogs 4 4 28
Hong Kong Dragons 8 4 52

Game 10 Goals Behinds Total
Philippine Eagles 1 3 9
Malaysian Warriors 5 6 36

Grand Final
Hong Kong Dragons: 7.4 (46)
Malaysian Warriors: 2.1 (13)

After a few weeks of training, a lot of talk about the upcoming season and almost a late cancellation, the action finally kicked off on Saturday 8th May at St Stephen's College in Stanley. A three way competition was organised between the Hong Kong Dragons and two newly formed teams; Pokfulam Vikings and the Macau Lightning.

Assistant Coach Farmer showing the Coach and Captain how it was done in his day - can in hand.

With heavy raining washing away the supposed venue at Kai Tak over night it was some quick thinking on behalf of the Dragons along with some help from the Australian Consulate that got the day back on track. A last minute back up venue at St Stephens College was arranged and thankfully the football could continue as planned. The day proved to be an outstanding success with the festivities being watched by over 100 spectators. Wives and girlfriends all chipped in to make sure the players were stocked with enough food and drinks in the hot conditions, while children played on the ovals and cooled off in a makeshift pool boundary side. The games were played in terrific spirit, with football being the biggest winner on the day. The Hong Kong Dragons proved a little too strong in their games against the Vikings and Lightning, however they didn't have things all their own way with both teams showing patches of great play and testing the Dragons at various times. The last game of the day was fought out between the Vikings and the Lightning, both eager for their first win. It was a torrid affair with a number of player sustaining injuries. In the end the Vikings proved too strong, much to the delight of their passionate fans.

Final results for the day were:
Game 1: Dragons 9 16 70 def Vikings 4 2 26
Game 2: Dragons 16 8 104 def Macau 6 3 39
Game 3: Vikings 13 10 88 def Macau 3 4 22

The Lightning before their debut in Asian footy

PRIOR TO THE GAME ON SATURDAY
With thunderstorms overnight Thursday ruining the ground we have had to move Saturday's games to St Stephen's College in Stanley. Action will still kick off from 11am with the same format and presentations scheduled for 2:30pm at the ground. Please note that there will be no parking available due to construction work so please take public transport to the ground.

Enter via the main school gate at 22 Tung Tau Wan Road, Stanley - the 40 & 52 minibuses; 260 and 6 buses run right passed the gate.

Location of the Kai Tak Cricket Ground

The Pokfulam Vikings are in a similar position to the Lightning having not notched up a game of international football until this date. The Vikings have however been quietly going about their business down at Sandy Bay for some years now and with a few ex Dragon premiership players running around in the big V plus a few unknowns they will certainly have the capabilities of giving this comp a real shake on the day. Former Dragon Nigel Mendonca will be one to watch in the big V provided he can keep his hands off Riggsy in the middle!

All in all we are set for a huge day of footy on Saturday 8th May at St Stephens College. Bring the family and kids along as it will be a great day to be enjoyed by all and a fantastic welcome back to footy in HK.

Dear Auskickers, the start of our 2010 season is approaching so dust off those boots and mouthguards and make your way to USRC on the 24th April for Registration

REGISTRATION DETAILS:

• PLACE : United Services Recreation Club, USRC, Garden Room. Enter from Gascoigne Road. Signs and guides will be in place.
• DATE/TIME : 24th April 0900-1200
• ADDRESS : 1 Gascoigne Road, Kings Park, Kowloon. See the following link for details www.usrc.org.hk/index.php (Jordan MTR, Exit B)

• REGISTRATION FORM : Please email aussierules_hkkids@yahoo.com.au for a copy of the form. Registration fee for 2010 is $600 per child.

• ELIGIBILITY : The minimum rquirement to register is School attendance i.e. Reception/Prep. (Not Kindy/Pre-school). Boys and Girls over 12 years age are welcome to register for our 'Junior Dragons'. This group will be run if numbers permit.

• CHILDREN RECEIVE : A 2010 Auskick Rookies Pack, and 2 ARJFC HK(Auskick) Training Tops. The Tops are unchanged from last year, so if yours still fit, please help us save on costs and bring them again this season.

• PLEASE NOTE : No parking is available at the Club and attendance is restricted to the Garden Room only for registration, no other Club areas are available. A soft drink and snack will be available for each child attending registration.

• REQUEST : Please make best attempts to register on the 24th. There is no requirement for children or parents to attend registration. Any responsible adult may submit registrations on their anothers behalf. Registrations will be accepted on the subsequent game days however this will be difficult due to location and available helpers.

• SEASON START : Saturday 1st May at HAPPY VALLEY. The 8th May is also planned for Happy Valley however the entire remainder othe season will be at KINGS PARK.

Confirmation emails will be sent in the week prior to each Saturday with more information and updates.

Regards
ARJFC HK (Auskick) Committee

Keano (right in blue) set a scorching pace for a good cause.

Beating the banana
Although not usually recommended in public, pacy Dragon Brendan Keane beat the banana while in TST to take out the 3km version of the 5th annual WCRF HK Beat the Banana! Charity Run held recently. Close to 800 runners aged from 8 months to 70 years old shared a morning of great fun and energy for cancer prevention along the beautiful Tsimshatsui waterfront while raising more than HK$420,000 for WCRF HK's vital cancer prevention work. At the 3km fun run, champion Keano successfully beat the giant running banana in 9 minutes and 18 seconds.

Live gig
The Dragon's very own superstar, Justin 'Diesel' Barbero will be making his debut live music gig on Saturday 13th March. The lads at V13 have announced they intend to hold a live music promotion night with $13 vodkas and a $1300 tab to be won. Barbs will be playing a one hour set. Get down to hear our guitar hero belting it out. All together now, "You're the Boff, try and understand it ...."

Halfa Farma
Michael 'Farmer' Robertson was one of the Dragons to take part in the annual Standard Chartered (half) Marathon, completing the 21kms in a credible 1hr 49 mins.
(Any other runner results welcomed).

New arrivals expected
Dragons big man Brian Jackson and wife Michelle have announced that they are expecting baby number three mid-year 2010.

Occasional player and long-time Dragons couple DJ Robbie Burns and wife Cris are also expecting their debut offspring arrival around the same time.

2002 BALI 9s

Lining up for the national anthem

After a baron 2001 season, the Dragons re-assembled a committee at the start of 2002. After a loss against the Jakarta Bintangs in Jakarta by 33 goals in May, it could only get better from there on. Third in a four team Asian Championships in Singapore followed and then the Dragons went to Bali in October to compete in the inaugural Bali 9s tournament. The Bali 9s was a 9 a side competition created by the Bali Geckos on a 100m long field (probably created because they have no bigger grounds in Bali....).

The Dragons assembled a small but strong side for the tour with the likes of Hamish Stuart, Graeme Rigg, Damian McNair, Nick Hyland and Matt Campbell in the side. As depth was a problem, we went recruiting in the Bali pubs on Friday night - an exercise that netted a German basketballer and a Scotish bloke no-one could understand!

After winning 3 of the 4 round robin games, the Dragons made it to the final. An early injury to Hamish was covered by smooth recruiting of Duane Stewart - a 150 gamer for Norwood in the SANFL who came down with his wife to watch, and mentioned as he passed our tent that he played for Norwood and that we had the same jumper. That was all David Bowtell needed to hear to sign him up!

The best round robin game was our upset win over Bali where Big Rob Caldwell (aka Raymond's brother) kicked 5 in a demolition job of Bali's greatest ever player Peter Muir.

The final saw the Dragons lose a close one to Jakarta after having the lead at half time. It would have been nice to win of course, but this tour showed the Dragons were back as a force in Asian football.

This tour is equally or more memorable in that it was the week before the Sari Club / Paddy's Bar bombings. The Dragons partied at the Sari Club all weekend and were extremely lucky that the original date of our tour was moved forward a week due to a clash with a 10s rugby tournament on the weekend of the bombing.

There was a lot of emotion from all when the Dragons that toured gathered at the Hong Kong Football Club the week after the bombings to pay our respects at a specially arranged rugby tournament to the eight Football Club rugby players that lost their lives the weekend before in Bali.

Bogan's broken nose was heard from the 3rd tier of the grandstand by none other than Australian Prime Minister John Howard.

2003 BALI 9s

The date for the 2003 tournament was fittingly set for the first anniversary weekend of the bombings.

Again the Dragons had a small squad and recruited pretty much a full Melbourne based footy team from Keysborough on the morning of the tournament to help us out. These guys had been there the year before and went to Bali to pay their respects. They were not expecting to play footy, but cold beer all day was the clincher!

On-field, the highlight for the Dragons was facing Bali first up. Jason McCartney was playing for Bali and there was a media contingent like an AFL game. Front page of the Herald Sun the next day was a marking contest between McCartney and a Dragon. Probably the only time we will make the front page of the Herald Sun, and the Dragon in the picture was one of our ring-ins!

The Dragons came third in the tournament but did inflict the only loss on the tournament's eventual winners the Batemans Bay Seahawks.

Off-field, this was the day Asian football was put on the map. A crowd of 2,000 plus was in attendance, AFL legends Dermott Brereton and Ron Barrassi were there and the final between Bali and Batemans Bay was shown live on TV in Adelaide and Perth.

Even more significant was the arrival late in the day of Prime Minister John Howard, Opposition Leader Simon Crean and their wives. They arrived to an amazing roar and standing ovation for making the effort to come and pay their respects for those lost 12 months earlier and to our appreciation for taking time to come to our football tournament.

After Batemans Bay won a close Grand Final, John Howard presented the cup and said "today is a great day for Australian sport. Matthew Hayden has made a world record 380 runs, the Wallabies have beat Argentina in the first game of the world cup and the Batemens Bay Seahawks have one the Bali 9s!". From there on I stopped voting for Tony Lockett and moved to John Howard!! Legend.

Truely a proud day to be an Australian and a very emotional one for all of us.

Matt Mojo Feeney has outclassed the field to win the second pre-season Dragons squash tournament and in the process win the inaugural Frawcis Cup.

The trophy, named after former President Craig Francis but typically mispelt by the trophy shop, is to be awarded in perpetuity to the winner of future pre-season competitions, regardless of the nominated sport for that year.
 In one-sided final played in front of a vocal, well-imbibed crowd at the HK Squash Centre on 16 March, Feens beat a gallant Julian 'Banno' Bannigan 9-6, 9-1, 9-5. In an earlier semi final, Banno had conceded an 8-2 lead in the deciding third set against the same opponent. But with the pressure on, it was Feens who drew upon his pilot emergency training to keep his cool and do the business.

The Frawcis Cup, named but misspelt after former club President Craig 'Boges' Francis (above)

After a hard fought first set, Banno failed to keep to his game plan of pushing Feens to the back of the court. With famed court craft failing to materialise, Feeney dominated the T to control the game.

Special mention to Jarrad Tidd, who lovingly prepared a huge roll-out banner in support of the runner-up. Sadly, he only turned up on match point.

The Frawcis Cup trophy will be held by the winner or stored at Bulldogs until next year's competition.

(L-R) Feens, Boges and Banno

Earlier reports

The round robin competition has been completed and we now move into the knockout stage of the Francis Cup pre-season squash competition. There has been a three-way tie for eighth spot (although Gags never actually came to the Island) and so Jacko and Wazza will play off for the much sort after 8th position. This game will be completed over the weekend, so the winner has enough time to recover, physically & mentally, before the all important finals.

Played Won Lost

Feens 5 5 0

Banno 5 4 1

Boges 5 3 2

Salty 6 3 3

Colonel 4 2 2

Barbs 4 2 2

Baron 2 2 0

Jacko 5 1 4

Wazza 3 1 2

Gags 2 1 1

Finnegan 2 0 2

Keano 2 0 2

(L-R) B&F Ryder, former Prez Woody, Prez Boges with the perpetual trophy named after the late Warwick Snowden

In one of the finest Dragons Awards Nights in recent memory, the club honoured its good and great at Oboh on Old Bailey Street on 28 November 2009.

The venue was a heaving mass of club members, partners, friends and fans for the open bar, live music fiesta.

Club founder Ray Wood travelled from Australia specifically to present the Ray Wood Medal that went to Dragons Fairest and Best winner, Joshua Ryder.

A clutch of other awards were also presented. The coveted Best Clubman trophy went to the tireless merchant of mirth, Dominic 'Bowski' Dunn. His efforts both on and off the field have been the stuff of legend and he joins an exalted list of contributors to the club on the honour board.

Best First Year Player went Justin 'Diesel' Barbaro. The pint-sized Stuchy doppelganger had a great year. It started with his four hour stop-over in Manila (en-route to his grandfather's birthday in Australia) morphing into a hospital visit after ten minutes of game time with a split chin. It culminated in a BOG performance in Beijing and some fine musical performances thereafter. "Looking forward to coming back next year for a tilt at the B&F," he said in accepting the award.

Leading Goalkicker was Jonathan Worthley, who took his second consecutive gong. A huge effort in Manila preceded a quieter Asian Champs before he sealed the deal with a strong performance in Beijing. Jonno thanked the midfield for feeding him and said he hoped to be around for another season.

Coaches Trophy went to the selfless David 'Lips' Kerr, who played a pivotal role on the sidelines. Whether serving as assistant coach, helping out at training, running water or playing and breaking fingers and tearing calf muscles, Lips was the year's everywhere man. "This is a great club and it is only as strong as the people who make it all happen. Special thanks to the committee guys for all their hard work, much of which goes unseen but I know they do it and appreciate it," said Lips.

For lifetime achievement, the Dragons awarded Life Membership to the indomitable Alfred Chown. Alfie was one of the founding orchestrators of the club in the early 1990s and his work over a period of about five years is one of the reasons we have this great club today.

"I guess it is somehow apt that I am the 19th life member of the Dragons as I did spend a lot of time on the bench during my career," said Chown.

Before presenting the Best and Fairest Award to Ryder, Ray 'Woody' Wood delivered an impassioned oratory on the Dragons early history. Reading from a parched scroll, the club's first president spoke of the people and events that shaped the club, including matches played against visiting navy sides in front of 2000 spectators, with RAAF paratrooper displays. The captivating speech provided and sense of history and gave the younger club members a valuable insight into the standing of the Dragons in the Hong Kong community.

In accepting his award, ruckman Ryder thanked the club for the friendships and good times it had provided, before offering a rendition of "Josh do it, Josh do it."

Special mention must also be made of the jovial half dozen Abu Dhabi Falcons who made it to Awards Night as part of their end-of-season trip in Hong Kong.

The evening then got progressively larger, with the Snowden Perpetual Trophy splitting in two, Diesel joining former Dragons Macca on the mic and strings and a general descent into mayhem throughout HK following. 2009. Success.

(And be sure to check out the updated Honour Boards under our History section, with Past Coaches and Captains now included with the 2009 award winners).

Photo gallery to follow soon

Craig 'Prez/Boges' Francis

Sandy Bay scorcher (July 25)
Training on Saturday morning at the Stanley Ho Sports Ground was a scorching hot affair, with about a dozen hardy Dragons turning in in Sandy Bay.

We move to Causeway Bay next weekend and expect bigger numbers.

After a summer bye week, the Dragons were desperately in need of a solid training session this weekend. Only about 40 days until the Asian Champs. Lips took command of the sweaty dozen, with a short-ball scratch match concluding the session. A warm welcome too to former Old Ivanhoe newcomer Ryan Coleman. He was making his first appearance after only a few weeks in HK on his first overseas posting. (If anyone knows of any graphics designer jobs out there, email president@hk-dragons.com and I'll pass it on to him).

Take a look under the News Headlines section Club Diary 2009 for the full schedule for training and games throughout August.

Kings Park hitout (July 5)
The Dragons put in a very solid 75 minute training session at Kings Park on the weekend before adjourning to Bulldogs TST to watch the Saints narrowly beat the Cats.

A squad of 15 was on deck for a hot and humid session interspersed with some welcome cooling rain showers. The team went through a series of drills, each one preceded by some arduous sprint sessions the length of the pitch. The plan now is to boost the fitness element at all training sessions with a view to the looming Asians Champs in KL less than two months away.

New look at training (June 14)
The Dragons debuted their new luminous yellow training singlets during Sunday training at Happy Valley on a night that saw a handful of new fellas hit the sandy surface for a well-attended session.

The singlets came out during the end-of-session scratch match that pitted Dragons shirts against the Council Workers. With Happy Valley resembling a beach in parts, and mangrove swamp in others, it's looming closure for summer appears timely, albeit inconvenient.

With almost 30 fellas on deck, numbers were good and the standard reasonably high. Gags bought some new drills to the session, including the so-called three-station weave drill. Two new blokes also appeared, so big welcome to Chris and Greg.

The flouro-yellow Dragons training singlets made their catwalk debut

Special mention to Doc Livingstone, who single-handedly managed to nail three quarters of the flouro-clad opposition into the turf. Feeney, recovering from cosmetic nose surgery, umpired as well. Good players on the night were Daz, who found plenty of space, Rigger, Gags, Simo and the Colonel. Some less thrilling news was delivered by Simo, who announced that he will soon be leaving HK and returning to Australia, although he expressed his intention to compete at this year's Champs in KL.

Numbers continue to eek towards the minimum required of 16 to form a tour to Vietnam on July 25. A few more players got on board last night but about four more players need to put their hand up in the newxt few days to cement the deal. If anyone wants to tour or is thinking about it, email president@hk-dragons.com NOW. Everyone else, talk your mate into getting on board. Flights will leave 4.30pm Friday and return departing HCMC at 6.30pm.

Training rained off (June 7)
Following an exhausting tour of Manila and a weekend with some of Hong Kong's favourite sons returning from afar, training was perhaps expectedly low-key on Sunday. for the 13 that did make it, there was the promise of new talent on show. More on the fleet-footed midfielder in future reports.

Training rained off (May 24)
All Manila tourists are required to collect their membership kits before we leave later this week. Email tours@hk-dragons.com now to organise your pick-up. If advised beforehand, VP Stoochy will be able to bring the kit to Wednesday boxing. Otherwise, organise to visit him in Happy Valley. Non-tourists can do the same or wait until our next training session at the Valley.

Plans had been in place to distribute the gear on Sunday but training was washed out.

Big men dominate in middle(May 17)
Another huge session at the Valley on Sunday evening. After the usual build-up through a smoothly-executed 6-point drill and some tactical boundary throw-in routines, it was into a fiesty scatchy.
In the guts, Josh and Big Dave and useful bigman newcomer The Colonel vyed with Budgie Allen and Jonno and i forrest of tall timber. Abs was tagging the pacy Stuchy, playing for the Darks. Up forward Mals and Deano were a handful and Will and Man Cheung proved an elusive foil. For the Lights, Tim Maudsen down back put in his strongest performance since switching from rugby to the great game. Luke was everywhere, Robbie was running around barefoot like Zola Budd. Come selection time in Manila, Rent-boy could find himself rueing the late diving tackle that ended The Prez's 'Phil Manassa meets Maradona' run from full back to forward pocket.
Kudos to Lips for umpiring with his dodgy calf muscle - and full points for penalising the Darks with a bouncedown for the technicality of the fullback kicking out from outside the goal square.

Big numbers, big session (May 10)
With outside temperatures hitting close to 30, humidity 85 and still 35 Dragons hitting the track, things were certainly starting to heat up down at The Valley this week. Coach Wino took the boys through their paces early with a number of warm up handball and kicking drills followed by some circle work but with that many blokes making the effort to hit the track it was only a matter of time before 2 teams were picked, the shirts came off (or were turned inside out) and a scratchy began.

In a very even affair between dark dragons and light dragons 2 15 minute halves were played in a 12 on 12 format to get us accustomed to the Manila comp in 3 weeks time. A number of old and new dragons performed very well during the game and it was great to see some brand new recruits in BJ, Adam, Phil and Nathan hit the track along with a new (but has been a dragon before) recruit in Cooky. The boys showed plenty of form and will be invaluable come KL and the champs in September. It was goal for goal for most of the game with very little separating the two teams, only a touch of class (perhaps ass) from Stuchy in the final minute could seal the deal for the lighter dragons, his left foot snap from deep in the pocket even gaining goal of the year calls from the opposition (just as well its early in the season!!).

Training is on again this Sunday from 6pm, with only 2 more session till Manila make sure you get down there.

Perfect conditions, May 3
Perfect conditions prevailed on the weekend and good numbers were on the track for a series of scratchies and handball-only games. Solid performances were given by Colin in defence, Luke on the ball, new boy Justin out of the guts in the Dons jumper, livewire Gags, elusive Mals and free-roaming Cozza.

Clock is ticking for the first tour of the year. Email tours@hk-dragons.com now to tour as air fares etc are booked.

Wet weather workout
The Dragons drew more than 20 players to training Sunday (April 26) despite the inclement weather. Conditions could well be similar in Manila at the end of May so the workout with the wet balls (once Coach Wines actually showed up with them) could prove valuable. Training again the is Sunday (May 3) at Happy Valley at 6pm. No excuses.

Clear run of bookings
The committee has secured the 6pm Sunday training slot every weekend from this Sunday (April 26) through to the Manila tour at the end of May. After a series of interruptions from the 7s, race meets and weather, it is time to commit now to a solid series of training sessions in the lead-up to the famous Manila tour.

Irrespective of perceived line-up strength, the tour will unashamedly reward those who have put in the most in terms of training appearances, fitness classes and effort. Get down this week or it could be a big interchange bench.

Second hills run rained off
With the races on at Happy Valley this weekend (April 19), the Dragons were to undertake their second run to the hills. Unfortunately, bad weather has ruled this out so the next chance to get some fitness and impress selectors is next Sunday at Happy Valley, 6pm. Before then there is this Wednesday's boxing/fitness session. We have been going for a couple of months and it is never too late to join in. We need numbers this week to ensure this priceless fitness boost continues. It is great value and produces real results fast. Email tours@hk-dragons.com for info.

Dragons Back
Bowski led a team of intrepid Dragons across the trail named after our club, the Dragon's Back, on Easter Saturday. Running the entire trail, the contingent of 10 Dragons finished the scenic but testing run at Big Wave Bay.

Scrappy handballs, solid circle work
The post-7s training session was again well-attended with about 25 people on the track. Some comically badly executed handball drills were thankfully countered with some positive stuff later in the night. Coach Wines had ordered push-up sessions for any digressions during circle work but the threat was in vain as the drill went off without a hitch.

There will be a Dragons Back run this Easter Saturday. Details to come your way very soon. This is a great workout in scenic country, ending with some well-earned beers in Stanley. Not to be missed. You can checkout photos of past runs on the Photo Gallery of the website.

Ian Allen tries to smother a Turkish handball as pack roams

Huge turnout before break
Almost 40 players were on the very firm surface at Happy Valley on Sunday March 22 for a few drills and a lengthy scratch match complete with interchange.

The scratchy - which strangely enough came down to last goal wins - was followed by a quick session of circle work, with designated hunters forcing the group into push-ups if caught with the ball. The club had to be forced to leave the ground late when management finally turned out the lights. Keen. Solid.

The Dragons have attracted a host of new players - of all ages and ability levels - over the past couple of weeks. With most having committed to club jumpers, the club is bracing itself for a huge year of football, touring and partying.

Next training is same time and place, April 5.

Numbers build each week
Almost 30 fellas hit the track this weekend in a brilliant training run in perfect, cool conditions on a clear night under lights at Happy Valley.

A fiesty and evenly balanced scratch match was played, with new boys Wayne, Rhino, Davo, Jacko in the ruck and others all putting in a good effort. Skipper Baron reeled in not one but two screamers, Bowski was solid, Spyder presented well at full-forward, Cozza ran hard, Simo got loose and Gags was around the place. Good work by Coach Wino with the whistle.

Plenty of players put in their tipping money and subs too, so a good night all-round. Details on the left here, or on mainpage, under headlines for your chance to pay up and join in. Now is the time!

Training underway
Another good weekend turn-out, with more than 20 players at training on March 8, the second session of year, held under lights at Happy Valley. At least half a dozen new faces are on out on the track as well.

The Dragons 2009 campaign to regain the Championship began with training on Sunday March 1.

More than 20 blokes hit the regrassed paddock for a cruisy sesh of run throughs, drills and some fitness work.

Training is on again this Sunday (March 15) and the following weeks after that, same time, same venue. Only Rugby 7s weekend sees us taking a break.

The pre-season boxing sessions in Central on Wednesday nights have been epic, gruelling workouts that have reduced all first-time visitors to their knees. But four weeks in and the results are becoming evident. We are getting more than ten people per session and will extend it throughout the year if the good numbers keep up. It's worth it. Sign up and questions to tours@hk-dragons.com

Balls and boxing
Training is on at Happy Valley each Sunday. Check the training box on the home page each week to verify times and location.

To punch through the pre-season, the Dragons are organising special Jab class boxing sessions. Times and numbers etc are being finalised. If you want to swing a few hooks and get fit for season 2009 - just five weeks away - then email Stuchy on tours@hk-dragons.com .

The St Kilda jumper was sold before the final siren

Almost 300 people attended the Dragon's massive Grand Final ballroom party, to witness Geelong stealing a last-minute victory of the hapless St Kilda.

With the Dragons manning the bars, the beer (thanks to Fosters) and wine flowed freely throughout a long afternoon and into a protracted and increasingly vague evening.

After some opening welcome addresses by the Dragons and Aussie Association heirarchy, MCs Paul Hart and 'Teddy' Whitten took the mic and orchestrated a hugely successful auction and prize draws.

A football signed by the Brisbane Lions fetched HK$2,000. Next off the anvil was the signed Sydney Swans jumper that fetched 5 grand, a Carlton jumper that went for $8,500 and topping the bill, the signed St Kilda jumper that went for more than $12,000 (but failed to appreciate in value after the final siren).

Cash prizes went for the first goal of the day (kicked by Max Rooke) and the Norm Smith (won by Geelong's Paul Chapman) and door prizes included accommodation in Japan at Niseko Fresh Powder Apartments, an ipod from SMATS tax and property, prizes from Adelaide Cellar Door Wines and Meatmarket.hk.

The Dragons first won the Champs in 2003

Champs history
The Asian Australian Football Championships

The Asian Australian Football Championships were first held in 2000, although a precursor tournament named the Four Nations Cup was held in Bangkok, Thailand in 1999. Teams that have competed include the Hong Kong Dragons, Singapore Wombats, Bali Geckos, Brunei Sharks, China Blues, China Reds, Japan Goannas, Laos Elephants, Philippines Eagles, Indonesian Bintangs, Jakarta Bintangs, Thailand Tigers, Vietnam Swans, United Arab Emirates Heat and Malaysian Warriors.

Tournament statistics
(Year Venue Champions)

2000 Jakarta, Indonesia
Indonesia Bintangs
Hong Kong

2001 Bangkok, Thailand
Singapore Wombats
Indonesia

2002 Singapore
Indonesia Bintangs
r/u Singapore

2003 Hong Kong
Hong Kong Dragons
r/u Jakarta

2004 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Hong Kong Dragons
r/u Singapore

2005 Manila, the Philippines
Singapore Wombats
r/u Bali

2006 Jakarta, Indonesia
Singapore Wombats
r/u Bali

2007 Bangkok, Thailand
Hong Kong Dragons
r/u Bali

2008 Singapore
United Arab Emirates
r/u Singapore

Bowski: cruelly ruled out of Champs.

Contact us
Email president@hk-dragons.com with any club news or gossip from around the lair.

Bowski out
In a major blow to the Dragons' lead-up to the Asian Champs this week, Dom 'Bowski' Dunn has been ruled out of the competition after sustaining a knee injury during a game of Gaelic football on Saturday (Aug 29).

After getting a pin inserted in his leg, Bowski will now join the elite Football Dept team under the tutilege of Coach Wino and alongside Lips and Farmer. He also firms appreciably in the BOF betting field.

Seeking some extra fitness ahead of our major event of the year, the full back and key position player who had been earmarked for an important role across the half back line fractured a bone just below the knee after contact with another player. Speaking from Ruttonjee hospital on the weekend, Bowski expressed his disappointment and said he was awaiting news on whether surgery was required.

The Dragons will now be looking to turn this negative into a source of inspiration as they try to put in a rewarding performeance on behalf of a club figure that truly gives the club everything he has on and off the field.

Following the broken thumb to Marrk 'Cozza' Corrie just a week earlier at training, the injury toll in the lead-up has been unfortunate. Former star Dragon Aaron 'Besty' Bester has also ruled out an appearance at the Champs due to travel obligations with work.

The Dragons final Sunday hitout takes place at 3pm today (Aug 30) at Happy Valley.

Remember: No Ivan Milats before 12

Two new arrivals
Dragons veteran Matty Wu and Dragon and Port Powerhouse Dean May have both become first-time parents.

Matty and Viv are now proud parents since the early morning August 22 of baby Madeleine Wu. Maddie and Matty. Sweet.

Deano is now the proud father of Sienna Jane May, born 0932 this morning (Friday, August 21). Says Deano, "Mum and bub in excellent health. It went F--KING great!", he said, employing the adjectival expletive that brought this whole saga on.

Deano added: "Believe it or not, the reason I haven't been to training lately is 95% due to my shit roster at work. Please pass on my regards to all and I will try to get down before the champs."

Congrats from the club on the newbie. No tattoos before 12.

Harrison John Liu-Maudson

Congrats to Tim Maudson, with the former rugby playing convert to Aussie Rules (well before Carmichael Hunt of the Gold Coast) kicking one through the big sticks. Harrison John Liu-Maudson was born on July 28 at 3.20pm weighing in at
3.616kg and 49cm long.

"Its been a pretty exhausting couple of weeks with the new job and now new baby. Hope to be back to normal soon, the wife comes home on Sunday so you might see me next week some time."

Justin goes nuts
Kudos to the hardy boxers who made it to the July 1 public holiday Wednesday session; Tim the Chef, Stooch (DCMD), Prez Boges, Dylan and Justin, Turkish Stef. Special mention to Justin Barbero for expertly removing trainer Lee's right nut. During the sprint against the giant resistant rubber band, he managed to slip free and ping the 95kg trainer with a kilo of rubber flying at 120km/hr, deftly taking out his righty.

Deuce and son Rio

Deuce bags number 2
Former Dragons off-field superstar Deuce Bigalow (aka Garry Frenklah) has become a second-time father. Young Rio came in weighing 3.28kg. "All doing well, at least until Jake realises he is no longer the center of attention!" said Deuce of wife Kyoko and family.

With one child born in HK and the other in Singapore, sibling rivalry is guaranteed.

Bali beat East Timor
The Bali Geckos consumed the East Timor Crocs with a flick of the tongue in Saturday's inaugural Crikey Cup international match at Marrara's TIO Stadium.

The Geckos trailed at half-time but found their feet in the last two quarters to win running away, 7.9 (51) to 5.4 (34). The match marks the much anticipated launch of AFL Asia, with associated programs like Auskick to encourage young people to take up the Australian game.

Full newspaper report: http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2009/06/16/58765_ntsport.html

AFL legend Kevin Sheedy is presented with a Dragons jumper at the dinner co-hosted the club, AFL and AustCham.

Storm denies Bejing Sheedy visit
Storms kept Kevin Sheedy in Shanghai this week (June 18) and denied the Bejing Bombers faithful the chance to host a dinner with the AFL legend. The crowd still turned up to the Embassy to hear some stories from the great man via speaker phone.

The full photo gallery of the Hong Kong event is now on the website.

Manila website updates
Take a look under the Game Write-ups/Photo Gallery section of the website for the recently updated match reports and full selection of action shots from the big day. The Grand Final write-up also includes the now-famous Mojo text message read out at half time of the big game to fire up the side.

Deuce and newbie Rio

Contact us
Email president@hk-dragons.com with any club news or gossip from around the lair.

Deuce bags number 2
Former Dragons off-field superstar Deuce Bigalow (aka Garry Frenklah) has become a second-time father. Young Rio came in weighing 3.28kg. "All doing well, at least until Jake realises he is no longer the center of attention!" said Deuce of wife Kyoko and family.

With one child born in HK and the other in Singapore, sibling rivalry is guaranteed.

The Bali Geckos consumed the East Timor Crocs with a flick of the tongue in Saturday's inaugural Crikey Cup international match at Marrara's TIO Stadium.

The Geckos trailed at half-time but found their feet in the last two quarters to win running away, 7.9 (51) to 5.4 (34). The match marks the much anticipated launch of AFL Asia, with associated programs like Auskick to encourage young people to take up the Australian game.

Full newspaper report: http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2009/06/16/58765_ntsport.html

Insurance coverage
The Dragons have now finalised arrangements for their extensive insurance package with Friar Park AIA. All players (to max of 43) are now covered for games and training both away and at home, as well as third party coverage for the club.
Adelaide Cellar Door wines and Meatmarket.hk have also joined our other loyal sponsors this year, namely Fosters, Bulldogs and Compelite.
Players can support their club by supporting their sponsors. Take a couple of minutes to visit meatmarket.hk and register for their truly essential service. Sign up and take a look at the best range of food of the best quality and price. Tell em the Dragons sent ya. Meatmarket proudly support the Dragons through their weekly $500 raffle donation.
Quicksilver have also offered some recent support and talks are underway to formalise a sponsorship arrangement with this prestige brand.

Race day
The Dragons coterie enjoyed a stunning day at Sha Tin Races recently, with the the crew cutting an unexpectedly fine picture in the private box. Winners abounded throughout the day and Woody's punters club ignored the early hecklers as it sat out the early races. A win for the group on the back of a firm favourite opened the floodgates and the longer odd runners started to storm home. A huge win in the 10th and last on the card set the panama hats sailing into the air. Wads of cash were distributed and larger sums plonked on the bar in Wan Chai to end a champion day.

Training times
Securing real estate for our weekly outings is no easy feat, but kudos to the committee (namely Stuchy) for locking in Happy Valley for our training for the next couple of months. So pen these Sundays into your diary - every Sunday 6pm through until June 21st (except for Manila weekend of course). Two training runs before we tour. Get down this weekend like 34 others did last session.

Manila tour confirmations
With Malaysia announcing this week that they will be unable to tour to HK (as had been penned in for July 25), the chance to grab some international football experience and honours in Manila becomes an absolute must.

The Manila tour departing May 29 is locked and loaded. Fares are booked and accom is being finalised as we read. Full cost info will be out this week. But you need to confirm now.

While the Dragons troops marked ANZAC Day in HK in reverential style, President Bogan completed a tour of duty to the Battlefields of P Burgos Street in Manila. Philippines Eagles President, Fat Cat, confirmed the Dragons would field two (evenly divided) teams in the competition against the home side and visitors from Malaysia and China. The Dragons will be defending the title won last year.

To secure your spot on one of the best-attended tours on the itinerary, email tours@hk-dragons now. Fares are rockbottom now so this the cheapest option of the year. If possible, indicate if you will be flying with the team or arranging own flights and/or hotel. If you have a preferred room partner, also stipulate this.

Footnote: Given the Prez bagged three majors before half time in the PAFL ANZAC match, after 56 games for two goals with the Dragons, there could be a few claims being made for midfield and forward roles. Those at training will be rewarded with the most game time.

Due to the rapidly changing Swine Flu H1N1 situation, the Auskick committee have decided to cancel their session for Saturday, 20 June.

Apart from the obvious media, School and Government notices, there is justifiably some concern among our parents and coaches. The Committee therefore took the only reasonable step and suspended Auskick.

Those on the Auskick email roster will receive notification next week, however in all likelihood Saturday the 27 June will also be cancelled.

Auskick will resume in term 3 on Saturday, 1 August and finish in late September.

"Many thanks for your support to date and we hope that August/September will see a successful and uninterupted finsh of the season," said coordinator Peter Dahl.

The Australian International School, meanwhile, has also closed due to Swine Flu until further notice. One parent and 26 more Australian International School students have tested positive.

Will makes a big spoil (earning himself an Out-of-Character Rising Star nomination)

Manila: The Hong Kong Dragons retained the Manila Cup from a competitve field that included the home side, China Reds and Malaysia Warriors on the weekend (May 30).

The Grand Final was played out between the undefeated Dragons and Warriors, with the blue and reds running out comfortable winners 9.11-65 to 1.2-8.

The lopsided result disguised the unmistakable rise in standard by the Dragons' opponents on the day.

The Dragons had met the Warriors in the first game of the day, with both sides slightly unsettled due to their unusually early Friday night build-up. Both teams imposed voluntary curfews that ensured hangovers weree hard to locate Saturday morning. The Warriors' leaked internal memos made no secret of the fact they were there to knock the Dragons off their perch. But the Dragons had all the answers and a dominant midfield display, tight backline and opportunistic forward line ensured victory.

The China Reds presented probably the highest hurdle of the day, with their player of the tournament Blackie leading a well-honed outfit strong on passion, height and skill.

The Philippines was the last game of the day. The home side had been competitive all day but had lost their other games narrowly. The dragons were methodical in conditions that should have deprived them of such skilful use of the ball. In driving rain, HK strung together impressive unbroken passages of play to run out comfortable winners.

Rentboy earns his contract salary

The Dragons fielded two teams during their successful title defence.

A unique selection policy that ensured every Dragon got to play in the eventual winning side was employed throughout the day. A core of eight players got valuable match time together with the remaining six places in the side rotated evenly throughout the day amongst the rest of the squad.

The second side, the Darkside Dragons, comprised those not in the anointed eight and varied throughout the day. Any thoughts that the Dragons might provide two powerful sides were dashed, with the Darkside failing to register a win but playing hard competitive footy throughout.

Once again it was the intraclub derby that brought out the best in the underdog squad. The year before, the Darkside led most of the match and almost caused a boilover. This year the top side retained control long enough to lead by a couple of goals at half time and to stretch that lead by a similar margin due to a better conversion rate.

Mals and Jonno look goalward in the Grand Final

A thriller and effective preliminary final late in the day in the wet saw the Warriors complete a major comeback to defeat China by four points, with a boundary line snap seconds before the siren getting them through to the big one. But their race had been run.

The evening presentation at Howzat Bar saw Jonno awarded leading goalkicker for his ten-goal haul. Player of the tournament was collected by Malaysia, China took mark of the day against the Dragons, goal of the day was by the Malaysians.

President Boges

NOTE: Photo Gallery, results can be found under Game Write-ups/Photo Gallery section of website.

19 May 2009 Contact us
Email president@hk-dragons.com with any club news or gossip from around the lair.

Manila tour confirmations

With Malaysia announcing this week that they will be unable to tour to HK (as had been penned in for July 25), the chance to grab some international football experience and honours in Manila becomes an absolute must.

The Manila tour departing May 29 is locked and loaded. Fares are booked and accom is being finalised as we read. Full cost info will be out this week. But you need to confirm now.

While the Dragons troops marked ANZAC Day in HK in reverential style, President Bogan completed a tour of duty to the Battlefields of P Burgos Street in Manila. Philippines Eagles President, Fat Cat, confirmed the Dragons would field two (evenly divided) teams in the competition against the home side and visitors from Malaysia and China. The Dragons will be defending the title won last year.

To secure your spot on one of the best-attended tours on the itinerary, email tours@hk-dragons now. Fares are rockbottom now so this the cheapest option of the year. If possible, indicate if you will be flying with the team or arranging own flights and/or hotel. If you have a preferred room partner, also stipulate this.

Footnote: Given the Prez bagged three majors before half time in the PAFL ANZAC match, after 56 games for two goals with the Dragons, there could be a few claims being made for midfield and forward roles. Those at training will be rewarded with the most game time.
Match report: http://www.pafl.com.ph/downloads/2009%20PAFL%20Match%20Report%20Round%202.pdf

Gaggs gags: The moment the Bombers hit the lead at the 30min mark of final quarter on ANZAC Day.

Shatin Race day
Limited places are now available for the Dragons monstrous Shatin Race day on Saturday 9 May. Coach to the track, box, food, drink, race book etc. Just $550. Email social@hk-dragons.com to confirm your attendance. Partners, friends welcome. This is seriously limited to 40 people and only a few spots are left (Be warned, this is NOT a sales pitch).

Dedicated Dragons coach will leave around 11.30am from Central and leave Shatin around 6pm. With unlimited beer, wines and spirits on offer, Woodsy insists he will provide toilet facilities on the bus (maybe a coke bottle).

ANZAC Day
The Dragons pay homage to the Diggers' day with an afternoon steeped in the celebratory traditions of our great nation. Chook raffles, two-up and an amazing game of footy that saw the Pies squander the unsquanderable in the last two minutes to Essendon.

A huge contingent of Dragons and supporters was at Bulldogs LKF for the occasion. Thanks to Sponsors Meatmarket.hk, Cellardoor wines and Bulldogs, the club also managed to raise more than $4,000 with three huge raffles. The two-up game also bought the house down and saw some big fistfuls change hands on the fall of the authentic ANZAC pennies.

Dragons publicity
The Dragons feature in an article in the current edition of HK Timeout magazine on pg 14. It hit the newstands on April 18. Be sure to pick up a copy.

Contact us
Email president@hk-dragons.com with any club news or gossip from around the lair.

Quote of the Month
If ever you have dodged a training session or copped out on some lame excuse, then take a leaf out of the book of veteran Dragon, Feens. To quote from a text sent the night before boxing session midweek:

"Keen for boxing tonight but I got married yesterday and I am still pissed so the immediate plan is to sober up and see!"

The follow-up tect later that arvo: Will be there mate - I will probably throw up but what the f--k....".

Feens is making Plugger Lockett look soft. Take note and respond accordingly, Dragons.

And congrats to Feeney and Lucy.

More notices
Word is in that Dr Livingstone, Big Dave, has just popped a sprog. More news as it comes to hand.

Soon to join their ranks is veteran All-Asian star Matty Wu, whose lovely wife Viv is now expecting their first kid.

Former Dragon and long-time umpire and club supporter Shane Sibraa has also now got a baby girl.

Prez presents the sponsor pack to Thomas Brunner of Fosters

Fosters lock in deal
Fosters have again extended their generous sponsorship of the Hong Kong Dragons into season 2009. The Dragons inked the deal this week (Feb 25) and took the opportunity to present Fosters representative Thomas Brunner with the club's 'sponsorship pack' to thank them for their support. The pack included two bottles of Aussie wine and a Dragons-embossed plaque.

Tipping deadline
The Dragons two monster tipping competitions have been launched and deadlines for payment are looming. Check out the news story on our home page for full details and get your payments in now. Queries to social@hk-dragons.com

Auskick
The Auskick AGM will be held on Wednesday March 4 commencing 6.30pm at 63/F, 2IFC, Central. Anyone interested in assisting the committee in the organisation and running of Auskick is warmly invited to attend. The committee would welcome any assistance.

Direct all inquiries - and info on getting your kids involved - to Peter Dahl (who is looking after logistics) via the official HK Auskick email address: aussierules_hkkids@yahoo.com.au

Champs confirmation
This year's Asian Championships have been confirmed for September 5 in Kuala Lumpur. You've been warned. Keep the date free. The other tour already confirmed is May 30 in Manila for the Manila Cup, which this year features our international rivals and visiting teams from Australia.

Another port in a storm
Deano is pleased, nay, f&*%ing stoked, to announce the imminent arrival of a brand new Port Adelaide supporter, on or about August 25th. The birth was evidently planned around the end of the Port season.

"No names as yet my very unreasonable wife Emily has already put the kybosh on Chocco and Fos, even though I think they are very nice names for a girl. Oh well, back to the PAFC honours list for more ideas," said Deano. (Ed: Shouldn't take long to get through that list).

Deano (centre) looking for another Port.

New balls, please
With Coach Wines as the mastermind of subterfuge and Committee man Bowski as the international mule, the club has managed to defy the authorities and get eight brand new footies into the country from Australia. Last year, the club had ten new balls (that were to be given FREE) returned to Oz by HK customs - but not before they had sliced apart one ball with razors.

Marathon Men
Congratulations go out to Dragons Tom 'Wigga' Stonier and Lee 'Lenny' Pilgrim for their brilliant effort in completing the HK Marathon on Sunday (Feb 8). A modest Pilgrim did not give his time but it is believed to be in the region of 3:45. Wigga managed to do his without training in a very solid 4:05.
"I spent 45 mins in the medical tent afterwards in and out of delusion, my temp at 40 degrees while being fanned by six gorgeous nurses while sucking on some oxygen," explained Lenny, whose toes are said to be a bit of a mess.

"My performance was best summed up when four guys running in shark suits protesting shark fin soup overtook me at 35km," said Wigga. "I need to do the pre-season training for sure," he added.

Tour updates
The Dragons will defend their Manila Cup title in the Philippines on May 30. The hosts have said that the competition will be expanded this year to include visiting side from Australia, as well as our regional rivals.

The Asian Champs have been confirmed as taking place in Kuala Lumpur although the dates are still yet to be finalised. The Malaysia Warriors, who last hosted the champs in 2004 when the Dragons went back-to-back, favour September 5. The other date that has been mentioned by those in charge of ground hire is July 25.

Committee meets
The Dragons committee and Paul Mallia assembled at Bulldogs on Monday night (Feb 9) to drive the big navy blue and red bus that is the Dragons. Training, attracting sponsorship in a tough enviroment, ground availabliity, home and away tours and social events dominated discussions. Training times will be announced shortly but keep the first couple of March weekends free.

Title sponsor Bulldogs have confirmed they will be not only sticking with the Dragons but have increased their sponsorship of the club. Friar Park (AIA) have struck a deal with the club to extend their injury and club third party insurance right through season 2010. More sponsorship news will be announced soon. Fosters have this week confirmed they too will continue their generous sponsorship of the Dragons in 2009.

Also keep an eye out for a footy tipping comp the likes of which you've never seen before.

Boxing preseason
To punch through the pre-season, the Dragons are organising special Jab class boxing sessions. Times and numbers etc are being finalised. If you want to swing a few hooks and get fit for season 2009 - just five weeks away - then email Stuchy on tours@hk-dragons.com .

Lucy shows off the rock that arrived the night before Xmas

Behind the scenes
While the off-season slumbers, your committee has been hard at work. Tour schedules are being finalised, and a few clubs have expressed an interest in touring to Hong Kong mid-season. The framework for the year hinges largely on the venue of the Asian Champs, with KL currently looking the favourite over Angeles City, Philippines. Elsewhere, management has been frantically trying to secure its sponsors for 2009. Despite the tougher economic conditions, we are optimistic we can retain or bolster our sponsorship levels in the year ahead. We are also aiming to have our playing kit, merchandise and membership issues put firmly in place for the start of season 2009.

Players pop the question
The Firebreather has the exclusive scoop that Matty Feeney has popped the question to girlfriend Lucy. The king of romance did the deed on Xmas Eve in Niseko, Japan.

We also bring news that Colin Mitchell has also taken the same route with girlfiriend of three years, Bo. All the best to the happy couples.

Unearthed - a history of the best
The Dragons have rediscovered their oldest piece of silverware - well, brassware. The Fairest and Best trophy dating back to the club's foundation in 1990 has surfaced and is now displayed in the Dragons new trophy cabinet area at Bulldogs, LKF. The trophy has been repaired and engraved with the full list of winners.

Bulldogs have set aside an area of the merchandising cabinet to house Dragons trophies and paraphenalia, giving the club great exposure and a place to store the 2009 Asian Champs cup! We will add a team jumper and other items soon.

Check out the website History/Honours section to see the newly updated list of club Fairest and best winners

The original Fairest and best trophy has been restored to its rightful place of honour

dating back to 1990 (previously only included winners post-2002).

Former Clubman breeding
2004 Clubman of the Year Dave Rial has recently revealed to the Firebreather that his wife B' is expecting their second child. Only at the pre-bump phase now but a sibling for their one-year-old girl is forthcoming. Life in Discovery Bay has that effect.

Gribble: More baby dribble
Anita Gribble gave birth to a boy (Louis) on Thurday morning (Dec 11). The stats sheet: 3.73 kg (8lb 3), 53 cm, 1.5 hr labour. Everyone is healthy and happy down in Singapore, including papa Sam Gribble, who provided the following insight, "He has big hands that bear remarkable similarities to Buddy Franklin's at the same age."
NOTE: Go to Player Profiles to check out new Sam Gribble profile.

Contact us
Email president@hk-dragons.com with any club news or gossip from around the lair.

The Dragons proud jumper

In an unprecedented offer in the club's history, the Dragons committee has confirmed it will provide free Dragons jumpers to all paid-up members.

New jumpers are being ordered this Friday (March 20) so we need you to immediately email at president@hk-dragons.com with your preferred number and nickname to be printed on the jumper (compulsory) and size (xl, lg, med, sm). Read on to stake your club jumper NOW.

The new jumpers will feature the logos of our new sponsors, including title sponsor Bulldogs Bar and Grill and Fosters. Chinese character numbers and a small regular number will be on the back and Dragons emblem on the front.

Jumpers were expected to cost members about $500 but months of outstanding pre-season hard labour by the Dragons committee (see Club info/Committee on website) has the club in a position where it can fund about 40 jumpers, as well as a host of other items in the membership package.

To ensure you get yours you must do two things:
Step 1. Transfer your $600 membership fees to the club acct at HSBC: 502-413594-838.
Step 2. Advise of payment by email, with preferred number and nickname. Please include THREE numbers in order of priority so we can avoid duplication. Email: president@hk-dragons.com

Our membership package represents truly outstanding value. As well as all club and training expenses, members receive full player injury insurance, courtesy of Friar Park (AIA), playing shorts and socks, a dedicated Dragons-Bulldogs bar discount card, plus extra kit to be confirmed (bags etc).

For those transferring their club fees, please also add $100 for the Knock-out tipping comp and $300 for the full season comp. Include this payment notice in your jumper email.

A Magpie or Dragon? Let's hope the latter.

Contact us
Email president@hk-dragons.com with any club news or gossip from around the lair.

Spier tackled
The Dragons future looks brighter after the fittest woman in Hong Kong and the Fittest Man in Asia (but not his own family) welcomed baby number two into their household. Riggsy and Nerida, at 12:26 on 04 February 2009, now have a little boy, Kai Spier Rigg. He weighed in at 3.3 kg (7.3 lbs) and arrived after a relatively short labour of 3 hours.

"His Mum is doing exceptionally well and our little man Kai is spending every waking moment feeding. His Dad is on top of the world and feels like he is the luckiest man alive to be raising a future Collingwood Captain," said decorated Dragons champion, Graeme Rigg, speaking in the third person (we presume ..... and, ummmm, hope).

Early reports also suggest that talk of a Rigg retirement may have been premature. The Firebreather has heard he may be back in full swing for tilt at season 09. We hope so.

Season 2009 is here
Footy is back! The season is here. After a massive viral email campaign launched by the Dragons led to better AFL coverage in Asia in 2008, the Australia Network has gone one better and is this year covering the pre-season competition. We commend the channel and urge all Dragons and fans to get down to Bulldogs to watch the games. Club emails will be sent out notifying you of meeting times. This week is the big opener of the season, 6pm Saturday (Feb 7) Eagles v Collingwood. See you there.

And don't forget to check out the Dragons display area, complete with playing jumper, in the glass cabinet on the left as you walk in.

Injury report
Itinerant journeyman and avid trainer 'DJ' Robbie Burns is half the man he was a season ago after sticking to an impressive fitness regime. But his plans for a quick start to season 09 are on the back foot after a ski accident in Japan left him with a leg injury.

Farmer in DB
Rumour file: Former club president Farm is believed to be relocating to the remote wilds of Disco Bay to live among the oxen and golf carts. Apparently the lure of drinking on a boat every day was just too tempting.

Lucy shows off the rock that arrived the night before Xmas

Behind the scenes
While the off-season slumbers, your committee has been hard at work. Tour schedules are being finalised, and a few clubs have expressed an interest in touring to Hong Kong mid-season. The framework for the year hinges largely on the venue of the Asian Champs, with KL currently looking the favourite over Angeles City, Philippines. Elsewhere, management has been frantically trying to secure its sponsors for 2009. Despite the tougher economic conditions, we are optimistic we can retain or bolster our sponsorship levels in the year ahead. We are also aiming to have our playing kit, merchandise and membership issues put firmly in place for the start of season 2009.

Players pop the question
The Firebreather has the exclusive scoop that Matty Feeney has popped the question to girlfriend Lucy. The king of romance did the deed on Xmas Eve in Niseko, Japan.

We also bring news that Colin Mitchell has also taken the same route with girlfiriend of three years, Bo. All the best to the happy couples.

Unearthed - a history of the best
The Dragons have rediscovered their oldest piece of silverware - well, brassware. The Fairest and Best trophy dating back to the club's foundation in 1990 has surfaced and is now displayed in the Dragons new trophy cabinet area at Bulldogs, LKF. The trophy has been repaired and engraved with the full list of winners.

Bulldogs have set aside an area of the merchandising cabinet to house Dragons trophies and paraphenalia, giving the club great exposure and a place to store the 2009 Asian Champs cup! We will add a team jumper and other items soon.

Check out the website History/Honours section to see the newly updated list of club Fairest and best winners

The original Fairest and best trophy has been restored to its rightful place of honour

dating back to 1990 (previously only included winners post-2002).

Former Clubman breeding
2004 Clubman of the Year Dave Rial has recently revealed to the Firebreather that his wife B' is expecting their second child. Only at the pre-bump phase now but a sibling for their one-year-old girl is forthcoming. Life in Discovery Bay has that effect.

Gribble: More baby dribble
Anita Gribble gave birth to a boy (Louis) on Thurday morning (Dec 11). The stats sheet: 3.73 kg (8lb 3), 53 cm, 1.5 hr labour. Everyone is healthy and happy down in Singapore, including papa Sam Gribble, who provided the following insight, "He has big hands that bear remarkable similarities to Buddy Franklin's at the same age."
NOTE: Go to Player Profiles to check out new Sam Gribble profile.

Feeney delivering
Veteran Dragon and champion wingman Matt Feeney is an expectant father. It seems a stint based out of Hong Kong and away from the Dragons for most of 2008 did the trick. Unable to drink in Solas every night, he's managed to bomb one through the middle for a major. We offer our hearty congrats to Feens and girlfriend Lucy.

Why the long face? Byrnes-eye's Leaving drinks night.

Rigged
While Feeney is finding newbies, his long-time companion is losing his. No sooner had Riggsy been inducted into the Life Member hall of fame than he has lost his engraved pewter mug presented for the honour. Unable to attend the Dragons gala Awards Night, Boges duly presented him his cup at the Races Night in Happy Valley. Rigger was last seen accosting cleaning staff and sifting through their rubbish bags after the final race on the card but to no avail. As the great man himself is wont to say: "Composure!"

The Dragons had congregated en-masse Wednesday night in the boozy beer garden at Happy Valley racetrack for a festive season greeting session.

Japan, Philippines in for Champs 09
The Japanese and Philippine football leagues have confirmed they will be taking part in the 2009 Asian Champs. The Japanese were a regular fixture at the Games but missed last year's tournament. The Philippine Eagles have played in a couple of tournaments and hosted the 2005 tournament.

All eyes will be on potential newcomers to Asian footy, East Timor Crocodiles and the Borneo Bears to see if they can get to the Champs. More importantly, no word yet on where they will be held. Manila in fact is firming in favouritism to host the 09 Champs. Malaysia is also a strong chance but nothing has been confirmed.

2008 into the annals
Check out the great photos from the Awards Night on the Dragons in Action Photo Gallery. The website 'History' section has also been updated with all award winners and the 2008 season wrap added to the 'History' annual summary list. The 'Club Info' sections for 'Committee' and 'Contact Us' have also been amended with the new committee members and club email redirections updated.

Going international
This player application was received on the Dragons email account. True story.
"I learn about your website from the internet and friends. I am Popoola Jide, Male, I am 6ft tall, weight 72, i am from Nigeria but presently living in Hong Kong. I am a football player , I have played many games in which i perform so well, I am a player with good skills, Dribbling , Chest control, Body swerve , Flick-on , Direct Free kicks , foot control, juggling a ball, Acurate pass, Long pass, Speed .

I really want to join your team , these will enable me to display my talent and skills. Can you please give me a trial ?? Please advise me on what to do ? .I look forward to hear from you. Regards.
Popoola Jide".
Chest control? We are impressed. Handy at Fenwicks. All we have to do now is a send a cheque to Lagos to secure the services of this star player. Good to know your annual subs go to a worthy cause.

Israelis tune in
After record numbers visiting the website in September, November saw Israel enter the top ten in terms of viewers to the site (ex. HK and Aust) for the first time ever. Mongolia also made its first appearance in the charts (Mick's new-found friends in the area, no doubt?). Mondays were clearly the most popular day for our dear readers to tune in.

November Top 10.......................October Top 10
United States...............................United States
Singapore....................................Singapore
Thailand........................................Macau
UAE..............................................UAE
Netherlands..................................New Zealand
Great Britain.................................Netherlands
Macau...........................................Sweden
Mongolia........................................Great Briatain
France..........................................Philippines
Israel.............................................Russia

Contact us
Email president@hk-dragons.com with any club news or gossip from around the lair.

You know what they say, "Big Feet, big ...."

The Dragons first official social event of 2009 took place on Monday (Jan 26) to mark the unprecedented collision of Australia Day with Chinese New Year.

About 25 Dragons, WAGs and kids descended upon Bulldogs LKF from 11am for a day of Aussie revelry, including the cricket on the big screen and a satellite link to the countdown of the JJJ Hottest 100.

DJ Bogan later fed the reqests of Rentboy and Lips for obscure WA pop singles, Mitch strapped himself to a giant thong crucifix, Bowski terrorised everyone, Simo spent his time colouring his colour-in book and playing toy cars, the South Africans pumped the Aussies in the one-dayer and Kings of Leon topped the Hottest 100 to the bemusement of Stuchy who claimed never to have heard of them or any other act mentioned in the countdown.

Wino revealed that the club would have half a dozen new Sherrins bought up to Hong Kong ahead of the first training run in March. The club is right now finalising its tour schedule, securing 2009 club sponsors and preparing all the merchandise ahead of the big year ahead. All players should be reminded that now is the time to start recruiting players - of any skill level - to the club to ensure 2009 is a huge success and the club can continue to grow and thrive.

Kudos to committee members Bowski and Stuchy for pulling together a great day on January 26.

(Clockwise from L) Amanda, Hippo, Wigger, Jess, Michelle, Mals, Byrne.

Both Hamish and Riggsy were overseas and sent in their messages of thanks from afar.

"I am honoured, thank you very much for this recognition from the Dragons. I'd love to accept this award but unfortunately the myth of the unicorn will have to live on!," said the rarely-sighted recluse.

Riggsy was more locquacious: "The Dragons continue to be a great club offering a chance to keep fit, meet new people but most importantly it has retained the bonds of mateship first established back at the clubs inception with guys like Ray Wood, Rick Riddell, Will Hamilton, Farm, Webby, Damo, Nick Hyland and Ronnie to name just a few. More recently guys like Byrnsie, Nico, Bogan, Mals and Stuch have made huge contributions to the club and their efforts must be applauded. It has been a privilege to have been involved in the Dragons and I think the experience has given me more than I will ever be able to give back to the club.
It is comforting to know that the clubs future is in great hands with Boges, Stutchy, Matty Baron, Wino, Woodsy and Dom at the helm. I look forward to hearing about future Dragon victories and hope to see the Asian Cup return to where it belongs," he said.

The departing Nathan Byrne took the mic, despite winning nothing and holding no official post. It was amusing enough though.

Awards Night - Due to overwhelming public demand, the venue for this Friday's Dragons Awards Night has been changed to the larger Bulldogs Wan Chai.

As well as honouring the great and good of Hong Kong Aussie Rules, guests will have the chance to win a week's accommodation at the fantastic Niseko Fresh Powder Apartments in Japan. Other splendid prizes will also be on offer.

So, the red carpet has been vacuumed, the trophy cabinet polished with Brasso, the tuxedos and formal evening wear dry cleaned. The momentous Hong Kong Dragons Awards Night is just days away.

The annual trophy presentation night is on Friday night, November 28, at Bulldogs Wan Chai from 7pm onwards. The club will crown the 2008 Dragons B&F with the Ray Wood Medal, while trophies will be presented to the Leading Goalkicker and Best First Year Player amongst others.

Club founder Ray Wood now resides in Perth and had intended to be in Hong Kong to present the award but regrettably is unable to attend. He did send his blessings to the club.

"It's obvious the Dragons have enjoyed a great year - fantastic - and with the best yet to come of course. I was very much hoping to be able to attend this year's award function on November 28 but unfortunately a current family situation means I will have to put that off until next year," said Ray.

"Please pass on my apologies and also my warmest congratulations to the winner of the "Ray Wood Medal" and all other 2008 award recipients."

Ralph - no stranger to pain (vs UAE, 2008 Champs)

Ralph Wheeler, the utility player with the impeccable kicking action, has made a late and impressive bid for most unfortunate player of the year award. With the season all but over, a couple of light Dragons training sessions were held before the planned China tour (before it was cancelled by the China contingent). Diligent in his preparation, Ralphie (as he has come to be known) was one of the players on the track for the penultimate session of the year at Happy Valley.

Sadly for Ralphie, he somehow contrived to do the dreaded ACL and is now setting himself for mid-next year.

"I ended up having to get an MRI done on my knee last week. The results show a "high grade" tear of the ACL which basically means it is holding on by a few threads... The good news is the surrounding cartilage seems to be okay," said an ever-optimistic Ralph.

"My plan at this stage is to see how it fares up when I get off crutches and all the swelling goes down. Then I can decide whether or not to head to Oz to have surgery in the new year. I'll then come back in March and do a few months with Faulks to rehab and build strength. Hopefully I won't need surgery at all if I can help it," he said.

Scenic Yangshuo was to host its first ever Aussie Rules game.

Sadly, we report that China has pulled out of the tour to Yangshuo/Guilin. Their excuses centre around the failure to lure any of the Beijing or Shanghai players to tour, with the local contingent in Yangshuo alone insufficient to warrant a tour.

I apologise to anyone who has structured there plans around the tour and can only say that the Dragons had done everything possible to make it happen. Flights were confirmed, the committee had put the blocks in place and enough Dragons had put their hand up to tour.

It is a disappointing way to end our year, especially in light of the inability to host a game in HK this year as well for reasons beyond our control.

So we now turn our attention to the end-of-season awards night. Keep November 28 free.

A committee meeting will be held this month to get planning underway for next year. The aim is to put our tour plans in place early in the year and to try to attract a visiting team (or two) in mid-2009. Also, should anyone wish to take on a committee role, please email president@hk-dragons.com

The Beijing Bombers extended their apologies and offered to host the Dragons next year. The fledgling Yangshuo Yobbos also expressed the hope the tour could be reorganised in the future.

Their correspondence follows:
Beijing Bombers:
"Sorry to say but I have given it a final push over the weekend to no avail. Despite my best efforts I have not had one person from Beijing or Shanghai put up their hand. Seems that the Y3000 price tag from BJ has scared everyone off so soon after Shanghai. Its also been a massive year for us with Manila, Olympics, Singapore, International cup fundraisers and games with the chinese boys, and then the icing on the cake with shanghai last weekend. On reflection it was a bit presumptuous for me to think I would get 10 to Yangshuo at the end of the biggest year ever for our club.

I have to apologise to you and the Dragons for letting you down like this, the interest you guys have shown towards this dream of mine to get footy started in Yangshuo has been fantastic. If Scotty is still keen on getting a group of Yobbo's together to play you guys it will be great, although I'm gonna be pissed I cant be a part of it.

I have also not been successful in drumming up any support in Shanghai as they have their big international rules decider against the Irish on the 15th and seem pretty pumped for that.

We have a BARFC committee meeting soon where we will discuss this. We have definitely learnt some lessons about how much we commit to. Hopefully we can make it up to you guys by hosting you to a great weekend in Beijing if you are able to travel up sometime next year. We have now hosted 2 full scale 18 v 18 games games here on our great new ground in Beijing and would warmly welcome you all to come and see for yourself the great strides we have made in developing footy here over the last couple of years, and while you still may have a slight chance of beating us before we start dominating the whole of Asia!

Best regards,
Keysy.
Beijing Bombers

From Yangshuo:
Unfortunately I really think we wouldn't be much good for you. Basically we are just a mix-matched group of ex-pats, a few Aussies and a few other randoms who were keen for a run around and a bit of fun. We were really following Grant and the Bombers lead on this one, I'm afraid without them we really wouldn't be much use.

Moral of the story is mate that I don't think we could pull together enough of a team for a decent match with you. I do strongly believe that there is a future for a regular HK vs Bombers/Shanghai match in Yangshuo though and hope you guys can co-ordinate a plan for next year.

.................................................
EARLIER PRE-TOUR REPORT:

The Dragons final tour of the year will take place on the weekend of November 15 in scenic Yangshuo (near Guilin) just an hour so flight from Hong Kong. The Dragons will play a combined China side on an historic footy tour.

All interested tourists should immediately email Tour Manager Stoochy at tours@hk-dragons.com to indicate their intent to be a part of this truly unique tour.

The Dragons will take on a combined China side featuring players from the Beijing Bombers, Shanghai Tigers and the fledgling Yangshuo Yobbos, comprised mainly of expatriate climbing tour operators.

This will be the last chance to tour for the year, not to mention the last chance to accumulate votes for the coveted Ray Wood Medal for the Dragons best player of the year. All players on this tour are also guaranteed plenty of quality game time.

Details about the format of the matches, hotel accommodation and flight times are being finalised but the club requires players to immediately declare their intention to tour so as to waitlist flights etc.

Yangshuo is a county in Guilin, Guangxi Province, China. Surrounded by karst peaks and bordered on one side by the Li River (漓江) it is easily accessible by bus or boat from nearby Guilin (65kms away). Over the years, it has become popular with foreign backpackers.

And as an added advantage in the wake of the global financial meltdown, this will be one of the cheapest tours we have undertaken, with Guilin just an hour away by plane and hotels expected to cost less than HK$150.

Get on board for the last tour of the year, to our ever-friendly motherland.

Woodsy (right): actual footy photos were hard to uncover.

Firebreather (FB): How long you been a Dragon?
Mark Wood (MW): I arrived May 2006, and was a member by June of that year, although I was a little late to get going with touring - work in that first year sent me around the world.

FB: How many tours you survived?
MW: Three tours; Thailand Champs 07, Manila Cup 08, Singapore Champs 08.

FB: Fondest memories?
MW: On home shores it would have to be the Beach Party, which is certainly not an event to be missed. A definite highlight of the year. In only its 2nd year already attracting keen diary enthusiasts to commence pencilling. Honourable mentions to this year's Ladies Night and the AFL Grand Final Day.

Away I would have to say the Manila Cup was a fantastic tour. We got the win and had a ball off the field. A really good place to tour as every sticks together, and more Dragons together usually means more laughs. More speeches than a
Greek wedding on the bus back to the airport Sunday. Harty was appalled!

The Rigg v Byrne "I'm not angry, just disappointed" tour. However the tennis/banter between these legendary Dragons on the bus ride home was exceptional. Please remember this bus ride was minus booze, but included
fire. Still rates as one of the greatest tennis games of the modern-era. Hats off to Capt Rigg for a straight sets demolition of the somewhat past-it Nathan 'feet of fire' Byrne.

FB: Whose the best player you played with?
MW: Besty - on and off the ground. He never dropped a mark. Fantastic with members of the opposite, feeding off his crumbs on the dancefloor was gold.

FB: How many more good playing years do you have left?
MW: Zero! Didnt have any to start with. You think I would join the committee if i could play? I can't play, so i have to contribute somewhere. Highly likely to stuff up being a committeeman as well.

FB: That's encouraging. Preempts my next question, which is, what fresh ideas are you going to bring to your club in your new role?
MW: Not sure yet... But reckon we need CREED

FB: What IS your new role?
MW: Still waiting to be told. I think I'm on the social committee, which is good. Though i would prefer one of these modern AFL terms. Director of Football Operations has my name all over it.

FB: What's with the weather/Phil thing?
MW: Angry Dragons are the worst kind of Dragon. When one Dragons feels he's getting a hard time, he makes its his priority to make sure another is feeling worse. Baby Dragon was given the unfortunate nickname of Jose with a slient 'H' by another vertically challenged Dragon. Jose didn't take kindly to said nickname, but wasn't able to come up with anything for the offending Dragon. So he directed his ire my way. I was giving weather reports (see above where i need to contribute something/anything) on Singapore before the champs each training session leading up to departure. Jose said it reminded him of Phil Toinby (yes, who the hell is that?) off Fast Forward. Now sorry kids, I stopped watching Fast Forward about one week in, so I have as about as much of an idea as the rest of the group. Jose loves it though, wets himself everytime.

With regard too being expert lifeguard / Olympic Volunteer / tweaking hamstrings and hearts / Port Adelaide loving South Australian - all true

FB: Tell us a little bit about the exciting world of shipping.
MW: Want to charter a ship? Come and talk to me. I only do the big ones though.

Training, Sunday, November 2

The last training run of the year was light workout with a small squad of players. We look forward to next year and hope to build upon the record numbers we had at training in the early part of this year and at midweek sessions in the latter half of the year. Thanks to Coach Wines for his tireless leadership on the track and to all the players who made 2008 a very enjoyable year.

Training, Sunday, October 26
The Dragons returned to the training track yesterday with three newcomers making an appearance. Making le debut was a Frenchman, Greg, as well as Brent Lister, Steven Smith (ex Perth and Japan) and David Kulkor. Wayne was another relatively new guy making an appearance. Kudos also to regulars Caldwell, Lips, PK, Will and Winsey, whose hamstring showed he is ready for a China tour return on November 15.
Training again this weekend. See homepage for details. Same time place. Final days to nominate to tour - email tours@hk-dragons.com to advise of your plans.

Wal tries to get the centre clearance away

Midweek gets underway
Midweek training in the lead-up to the Champs is on at Happy Valley this week, Tuesday and Thursday nights at 7.30pm, meeting at exercise mats (behind canteen/change rooms). On Sunday the August 10, at 3pm, we will be back to weekend skills sessions (firstly on the astro turf at Happy Valley) and then from Sunday August 17 we will be back on the grass pitch at Happy Valley.
The Dragons will also revert to Wednesday night skills sessions to lead us into the Champs on September 6.

Training, Sunday July 20
The second successive big turnout at Sandy Bay saw the Dragons put in a solid scratch match hit-out in fierce heat. More than 20 blokes were on hand in trying conditions on the fantastic artificial surface.

After a series of drills and token warm-ups, it was into a four quarter game of skins and shirts. Among the highlights were Deano's efforts in the ruck in preparation for Thailand, Mick's dry-reaching at half-time as he tries to regain fitness, the efforts of about four new lads on the track at their first training run and the return after a very long time of Dragon veteran Rob Caldwell, who is setting himself for the last tour of the year.

There is no training this weekend, July 26, due to the Thailand tour. Times etc for the next session will be announced shortly. The Asian Champs in Singapore are only five weeks away so we will be lifting the tempo post-Thai tour. If you intend to stay with the team for the Champs, advise by email to tours@hk-dragons.com immediately.

Players were this week also handed their Friar Park (AIA) insurance cards.

Wet weather should not dampen our spirits

Training, Sunday July 13
A heartening response to the Dragons rallying call for numbers on the track after a couple of quiet weeks. More than 20 members were at the ground this week to enjoy an astrturf surface surprisingly close to the real thing and significantly better than Happy Valley, which remains closed for renovation work

After the obligatory kick throughs and handball drills, it was into a lively two-on-one drill end-to-end before we got into a lengthy and competitive scratch match. Captains Crites and boges chose their teams and in a close call with noone really paying attention, it was likely the Crites line-up that took the honours. Some more new lads on the track performed credibly, Ryan, Carl (who will be on the Thai tour), Abs and second-week down for Dee, who defied his rugby roots to put in a strong game in the ruck. Troy Harris, who makes the trip from Macau each week (take note, those of you who think Sandy Bay is a bit out of your way) worked hard and Bowski tried to take the game up to Big Hughie (aka The Mongoose).
Lips took a screamer in the air but missed the set shot, while Tom Stonier also reeled in some great grabs up forward. Boges slipped in a sliding smother into charging pack for some kudos, while Doddsy, Wally and Mick teamed up superbly along the flanks for the winning side. Play of the day was a sublime passage that saw hugh win the tap-out to Simo who simply volley-flicked it into Mick's hands, who drilled the kick to Wal' , who goaled. the ball hadn't touched the turf.
Thanks as well to Daz, who dragged his healing leg around while umpiring.
Training this Sunday at the same venue, but at the earlier time of 2pm - 3.30pm. Bring the Mrs and kids and they can have a run around on the sidelines or nearby ovals.

Call to arms
For a club that prides itself on toughness, the post-Manila period has been below par. A junk trip hangover and a bit of rain seems enough to put most members off. Get ya sh-t together fellas. Training this weekend. 5pm, University of HK, Sandy Bay Rd (tell the cabbie: Sha Wan Drive), Sandy Bay. Rain or shine.

Thailand tour is just a couple of weeks away and the club really must lift if it thinks it has a remote chance of winning the Asian Champs. Singapore have 40-60 players training in the rain at the moment. The UAE get similar numbers in mid-summer temps of 48 degrees.

DRAGONS - show the heart this club prides itself on. Get down to training. If in any doubt training is still on, check the website which is updated on the day if there is a problem or call the Prez on 90282758. We started the year with record-breaking numbers but have let it slip of late. Regroup and fire up.

Training, Sunday July 6

Only half a dozen made the effort to get to Stanley Ho Sports Ground on the weekend. Doddsy, Boges, Will, Big Dave a couple of Auskickers, Russell and Lucian, and a new recruit at his first training run Dee Senaratne, a Sydneysider new to HK and keen to play and tour.

Despite the low turnout, the boys put in a full-throttle session inthe rain. Sprints preceded an exhausting hour of 'half-court footy', an exercise we plan to repeat and adapt in coming weeks.

View of training from the third tier of the packed grand stand

Training, Sunday June 29
Despite rain and the previous day's revelry, a small assembly of Dragons gathered at Stanley Ho to go through the paces. Among those on the roll of honour for turning up on a sodden afternoon after a Dragons junk trip were Coach Wines, President Boges, Jarrod Crighton, Will, Rent-boy, Doddsy, Tim, Big Dave, Lips and new recruit Tim Maudson. Coming from Sydney, Tim was having his first crack at Aussie Rules after a career spent playing a game where you get a goal for falling over in the right place. To those who opted out with a hangover - SOFT! Not the ethic this club was built on. As Chopper would say - "Harden the f-ck up."

Training, Sunday June 22
A scorching session in extreme heat with a commendable turn-out on the track, given the appeal of a day at the beach instead of hard yards on the training track. A solid 24 guys fronted up and despite the heat, put in a fast and furious session marked by good use the voice and loads of tireless second efforts. A new Stoochy drill started slowly before picking up when familiarity registered. A few new faces were on the track too, including another Dave and Tro Harris from Macau, who made his first ever trip to HK for the session.

Training, Sunday June 15
Conditions mild, surface beachy. Another session with numbers hovering on or just above 20 after a couple of weeks off for the Manila tour and next week's recovery. A fairly light session with a focus on drills that moved the ball through the corridor. In the wake of torrential rains, the pitch resembled a damp, sandy river bed.

Training, Sunday May 25
The quality control officers could hardly have been more pleased with the Dragons effort on the track in the final weekend session before the Manila tour. Skills were precise and the tempo upbeat as more than 20 players went through a series of drills that included circle work, boundary throw-in and centre bounce strategies and a fiesty scratch match. ALL members are urged to get down to Happy Valley at 7.30pm Thursday night (May 29) for final fitness session of 45 minutes and a few beers and team meeting at The Jockey afterwards. Jogging shoes only, no boots.

Training, Thursday May 15, Sunday May 19
With the countdown to Manila in its final days, numbers at training were perhaps a little disappointing. About a dozen on the track Thursday night for a session that revolved predominantly around simple kicking/running drills and working on the basics.

The Dragons latest training drill - learning how to sit on the bench.

Sunday saw about 20 Dragons take part in a good quality scratch match. As usual, there were a few new fellas on the track and some returnees. Among the newbies was a potential gun full forward who, although in HK for a month only, is keen to tour Manila. Working hard last night were Jarrod Crighton who was a magnet at the centre bounces, Will (in the Cats jumper) who covered a lot of ground and Mitch. On the whites team, Jonno tried hard, Doddsy put in some hard yards. Capt Bogan tried to implement a 'loose man back' policy to plug the wave of Darks attacks but with mixed success. Some good voice, a bit of shepherding and lots of run were the highlights. Kicking at goal was not. An area to focus on this week perhaps.

Training, Sunday May 12
Despite the long weekend and Mothers Day clash with training, a respectable 20 players still turned out for an energetic run in relatively benign weather conditions. The pace was arguably off what had been seen in previous weeks with drills amongst fewer players taking their toll that much quicker.

In keeping with the variety of training this season, some new drills were included, such as the two on one shepherding exercise and some crumbing exercises. Training is on Thursday night at 7.30pm and Sunday May 18 at 6pm at Happy Valley.

Training, Sunday May 5
It'll only get tougher as the year goes on but Sunday's session marked the first time this season that players had to contest each other and the elements. On a hot day, another solid contingent of about 25-28 players took to the increasingly sandy paddock for a spirited training session.

The previous Wednesday night and Sunday runs had seen some scintillating form on display. Perhaps the heat was a factor, but while endeavour was good the skills were probably more cotton than silk.

Among some of the faces new or not seen too often this year were Budgie, Lenny Pilgrim, Josh Ryder and new boys Brad and Daniel and a couple of others. Special mention to Doddsy for wearing attire roughly approximating footy gear and not some deviate gimp costume. DJ Robbie continues his commendable fitness campaign for the Champs, seemingly dropping a weight-division every week.

On the track some new competitive drills have been added to the format. This week saw some good two-on-two and two-on-one man-on-man drills. The 'race-thru-the-guts' ballwork drill is also proving a popular, with the competitive nature of it adding some incentive to use the ball slickly.

Nico was expected to bring down the kit for those who have paid their subs ($500) but has (seriously) contracted a rare and particularly virulent strain of hand, foot and mouth disease, leaving him an ulcerated mess. He plans to be on the track, with kit, on Thursday night.

Doddsy get a feel for leather - as is his wont.

Week 3, March 23
Easter was no deterrent to almost 20 blokes who got down to training on Sunday. Among some of the newer blokes on hand were Deano, who has shown his commitment early with two dragon tattoos, Chris from Adelaide and big Dave. Mitch got through another run and said there were no signs ill-effect from his broken leg, incurred last season. Doddsy, Stuch, Taity, Mick and numerous others also put in some solid work under the watchful eye of coach Wines. A few long weekend beers at the Jockey followed. No training this weekend due to the 7s.

Week 2, March 16
Nursing a collective hangover the size of Subiaco Oval, the Dragons bravely fronted up for another hugely encouraging training run on Sunday at Happy Valley. More than 20 blokes were on the track the day after the (or in most cases, the same day as) club's first social event of the year in Wan Chai Bulldogs. As well as the 25 or so on the track, a handful of others prospective players dropped in to take a look after finding the club website on the internet.

Among the more heartening sights was the return of Mitch, who missed much of last season with a broken leg. Good to have him back on board.

Training is on again this Easter Sunday at 4.30pm before a one-week break for the Sevens Weekend. Treasurer Nico will start collecting fees as well so bring your $500 along.

Week 1, March 9
The self-satisfied glances cast across the ground by the onlooking club and committee stalwarts Nico and Byrnes-eye, arms folded on the centre square, said it all. Season 2008 was off to a flyer.

You'd probably have to go back to the halcyon days of the early 1990s to have witnessed a bigger turn-out for an an opening run. A similarly impressive turn-out is now a must for the Bulldogs Party night on Saturday (March 15).

For the record, Byrnes was out with 'couch neck', incurred after two days spend lying on the lounge without even rolling over or changing ends. Nico is just aging badly. The only other injury from the training run was Bogan, who is out for 6-8 weeks with a torn finger tendon on his preferred left hand, which is now locked in a cumbersome, immovable splint.

With 22 established and 10 new Dragons doing warm up laps at Happy Valley yesterday, it was indeed the perfect start to the season. With this sort of start and a number of guys still to re-appear, it looks like being another very successful year for the club.

Grand final day: you never know what to expect (pic - GF 1972)

The 2008 Dragons-Australian Association AFL Grand Final Day promises to be bigger than ever, with a professional memorabilia auction, QANTAS prizes and much more, together with the usual ballroom, big screen atmosphere.

About 400 people are expected to fill the Nathan Rd Holiday Inn ballroom on September 27. A string of giant screens will bring you all the action, beer, wine, softies and chapers will flow and fates will be decided.

This year's event brings the added excitement of a monster memorabilia auction. With a professional auctioneer taking the stand from events company Helping Hand, fanstastic sporting and entertainment memorabilia will be up for grabs in both live and silent auctions. Proceeds will aid charity so bring the wallet and avoid the disappointment of missing out some some truly historic pieces.

Door prizes, raffles and lotteries for the Simpson medal and other milestones will also give punters the chance to fill their pockets with cash, prizes and air tickets.

This is the Day of Days on the Australian sporting calendar. Book your tables or individual tickets without delay as a sell-out is expected.

FULL RESULTS
PRELIMINARY GAMES
THE CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND
Game Time Group A Pitch 1
1 8:10 China 4.2.26 d Jakarta 3.4.22
3 8:40 Singapore 4.2.26 d Malaysia 2.1.13
5 9:10 Jakarta 2.3.15 def byBali 7.2.44
7 9:40 China 1.3.9 def by Singapore 5.3.33
9 10:10 Singapore Junior Wombats d Hong Kong Junior
Dragons
11 10:35 Bali 3.3.21 d Malaysia 2.4.16
13 11:05 Jakarta 1.1.7 def by Singapore 9.3.57
15 11:35 Jakarta Bulldogs (U 16) d Singapore Junior Wombats
17 12:00 Malaysia 2.5.17 d China 2.3.15
19 12:30 Singapore 5.6.36 d Bali 1.2.8
21 13:00 Singapore Junior Wombats d Singapore Gaelic Cubs
23 13:25 Malaysia 2.1.13 def by Jakarta 11.2.68
25 13:55 Bali 8.4.52 d China 1.3.9

Game Time Group B Pitch B
2 8:10United Arab Emirates 5.3.33 d Laos 2.1.13
4 8:40Thailand 3.2.20 d Vietnam 2.3.15
6 9:10 Laos 0.0.0 def by Hong Kong 7.6.48
8 9:40United Arab Emirates 6.5.41 d Thailand 1.2.8
10 10:10Singapore Gaelic Cubs def by Jakarta Bulldogs (U16)
12 10:35Hong Kong 3.2.20 d Vietnam 2.3.15
14 11:05 Lao 5.5.35 d Thailand 4.6.30
16 11:35Hong Kong Junior Dragons d Singapore Gaelic Cubs
18 12:00Vietnam 0.0.0 def by United Arab Emirates 8.6.54
20 12:30Thailand 0.2.2 def by Hong Kong 5.3.33
22 13:00 Jakarta Bulldogs (U16) d Hong Kong Junior Dragons
24 13:25Vietnam 2.3.15 def by Laos 3.3.21
26 13:55Hong Kong 1.6.12 def byUnited Arab Emirates 6.3.39

Game Time Pitch 1
27 15:10 SF1 - UAE 6.2.38 d. Bali 3.2.20
28 15:50 SF2 - Singapore 6.4.40 d HK 3.1.19
29 16:30 U16 GF Jakarta d Singapore
30 17:00 GF UAE 10.0.60 d Singapore 3.6.24

Auskick HK at Champs
The 'Hong Kong Junior Dragons', our U/16 Auskick team, will be in Singapore to support the Dragons and indeed compete in the inaugural U/16 Champs. This is quite an effort for the young lads and their families who are very proud to be there. The Dragons will be on hand on the sidelines to reciprocate their support of the senior team. The club's future is right there.

Record eyeballs
August was the second-biggest traffic month since website statistics were compiled. More than 2200 visitors came to the site, recording more than 117,000 hits (55,000 page views).

Sunday August 23 was the largest ever weekend visit, with 130 visitors to the site checking the progress of typhoon Nuri (and its effect on training) and the previous evening's Ladies night event.

The US regained top spot, ousting the Brits as our biggest source of visiotrs outside HK and Australia. India made a rare foray into the top 10.

Views by country:

August Top 10............................ July Top 10
United States...............................Great Britain
Great Britain................................United states
Macau.........................................Macau
Singapore...................................Sweden
Thailand......................................Canada
Canada........................................France
India.............................................Thailand
Switzerland.................................UAE
China...........................................Netherlands
UAE.............................................Malaysia

(The list excludes Hong Kong, which attracts about 60% of traffic, and Australia, which this month clocked up almost 10,000 page views)

File footage of the Dingbats in action

Singapore show some form
Singapore regained the Changi Cup with an 8.7.55 to 2.8.20 win in wet conditions at the Alice Smith Ground in Malaysia on 23rd August.

The Wombats also beat the Jakarta Bintangs recently, 19-13- 127 to 11-12 - 78 in Jakarta.

The Changi Cup is a best-of-three matches competition between Malaysia and Singapore and is one Asia's older football competitions having been played every year since 1997. Historically Singapore have been dominant, winning every year until 2007 when the Malaysian Warriors triumphed over the Wombats on November 3rd, 10-7-67 to 6-4-40 to win the rubber 2-1 and take the Cup for the first time.

At the University of Laos the Vietnam Swans overcame the Laos Elephants 80 points to 55. A good win for the Swans with a depleted team but given that this was only the second international game the Laos boys have played, the Swans were expected to win.

The Beijing Bombers have affirmed their status as the number one Aussie Rules team in China with a comprehensive defeat of old rivals the Shanghai Tigers 143 to 21 for their third successive China Cup victory.

New tour destination - Timor
Timor-Leste, better known to Australians as East Timor, is one of the newer sovereign nations in the world, becoming independent from Indonesia in 2002.

It also has one of the world's newest Australian football sides, with the Timor-Leste Crocs taking their name from a local legend about a crocodile who rescued a boy stranded in the ocean. When the crocodile stopped swimming, its body became the island of Timor, and the boy the first of the Timorese people.

While footy has had an on-and-off-again presence in the country since around 1999, the new-look Crocs look like being here to stay, with plans for a development officer and recruiting underway to send a team of Timorese nationals to the Northern Territory FL's indigenous footy carnival in Darwin in October.

Is it Ben Cousins?

Profiles, galleries and more
Check out the latest photo galleries under Dragons in Action section of Photo Gallery menu. All new pics are in from game day in Manila and Pattaya. Game write-ups are also found here from these matches and all the others played by the Dragons over the years.

The last couple of tours have also seen some new faces and nicknmaes emerge. New player profiles are in for Simon Phillis, PK, the Mongoose, Wigger, Carlos, Deano, Woodsy, Ralphie, (the unfortunate) Boy Bum, Cozza and our Skipper. Check them all out. A few old faces have also shuffled over to the Past Players list.

And keep abreast of our opposition. the websites of all Asian teams can be found under Club Info, Links, including websites for the Beijing Bombers, Malaysia Warriors and Laos Elephants.

About town
Some eagle-eyed photogrpahers have been on the prowl spotting celebrity Dragons going about their business away from the prying eyes of the media - or so they thought.

It is arguable which of the these two players cuts a more forlorn figure, a leading player shamed into hiding his face as he is caught wheeling along his trolley dolly in Disco Bay, or this lonely individual running around a sodden Happy Valley on his pat malone.

Typhoon warnings mean little when beer is at stake.

THE FIREBREATHER

Junk trip and photo gallery
The Dragons junk trip saw 40 players and WAGS and sponsors set off into the teeth of the typhoon, unperturbed by anything other than the contents of the esky. A great day was had once club Social Coordinator Bowski turned up to his own gig 40 minutes late. Two hefty sculls of glasses of warm red wine duly sorted him out. The junk sailed to an island off Sai Kung, where half the team swam to the beach for a game of Frisbee Ultimate. Was a great day, hugely successful and the photos are now up on the website - Photo Gallery/Dragons in Action section. Check them out.

Manila Cup photo gallery
A handful of photos of the Manila tour are up on the website's photo gallery. We are still awaiting the promised delivery of a disc of professional photos taken at the ground by the event's photographers and will hopefully be able to add those soon.

New committee member
Mark Corrie has joined the Dragons committee, taking on the role of Merchandising Manager. Cozza will be responsible for ordering, selling, storing and managing the club's new playing gear, tour shirts and accessories.
With the departure of club treasurer and merchandiser Nico from Hong Kong, and the stepping down of committee member Byrne early in the year, the club was very much in need of another hand on deck.
Cozza was only selected after undergoing a rigorous selection process that involved begging, cajoling and false promises of fame and glory. He passed the interview under the palm trees at Happy Valley training ground and met the advertised criteria for the position: Able to use phone, email. Preferred candidate will have a small cupboard.

Dedication - it's enough to make you ralph

While his dedication to the game cannot be questioned, his lack of mates is a little humbling. Ralph Wheeler, take a bow.

So has Ben Cousins come to HK? Is Baby Blanket in the trolly dolly? Perhaps not - but you will have to ask club captain Matty Baron all about it.

Please forward all contributions to About Town to president@hk-dragons.com

Latest profiles
Woods has a bit to say about some teammates in his player profile, the newest one added to the section. Big Fat Gav (BFG) also makes a long-awaited return from the past players section after living up to his promise of the past four years to don the boots. His hulking frame will be lurching around the paddock on the Pattaya tour. Taking his place on the past player section is Greg Tait. Taity has left Hong Kong and gone to Sydney.

Traffic jam
June was the second biggest month of web traffic recorded in the site's two year history. More than 2000 visitors came to thew site, recording more than 100,000 hits (43,000 page views).

International visits saw the European audience slip and Asian nations lift, with Macau soaring up the charts.

Views by country:

April Top 10.................................May Top 10
United States...............................United States
Philippines...................................Singapore
Macau.........................................UAE
Canada.......................................Great Britain
Singapore...................................Netherlands
Great Britain...............................France
UAE.............................................Macau
China...........................................Spain
Thailand.......................................Philippines
Japan..........................................Canada

(The list excludes Hong Kong, which attracts about 60% of traffic, and Australia, which this month clocked up almost 6,000 page views)

His heady ascent within the club has caused a nose bleed

The committee now comprises:
Boges - President, Media/Website Manager, Sponsorship Manager
Stoochy - Tour Manager, Treasurer (Boges/Stooch now the club's registered bank signatories).
Baby Dragon/Bowski - Co-organisers of the Social Ministry.
Cozza - Merchandising.

"Another champagne please, Mr Photographer, pretty please?"

More than 60 people turned out in style and elegance for one of the more up-market social events ever to grace the Dragons calendar on Friday (August 22). Given that the Typhoon 9 signal was hoisted, it was a pretty tenacious performance from an outfit on the top of their game.

Champgne football was catch-cry and the management at Heat in Wan Chai ensured the Dragons were at the smooth-flowing best. Ladies enjoyed free-flow champagne for the entire evening, with the carbonated vino bringing out their effusive, bubbly best.

Gentleman enjoyed hours of drinks for a set price of $180.

The evening warmed up with much socialising and banter before former President Byrne launched into a tirade about being unaccustomed to public speaking and a raffle draw.

It's a blonde-off

In a slight variation on regular events, ladies far outnumbered the men. The mismatch was such that by evening's end gaggles of ladies bouyed by the methode champagnois were in search of "single men, any single men?". This was great news for the single men, less so for the ladies, and a poignant reminder to those fellas at home to make sure they get along to the next event.

And with that, the crowd disbursed to the far reaches of Wan Chai and beyond to continue deep into the night ... and morning.

The typhoon's trail of destruction meant training for the Saturday was postponed a day. This was not an unwelcome development.
.......................

The pre-event preamble

It's champagne football, this.

Nature will provide the fireworks (hopefully) in the form of a direct hit typhoon. The ladies will be downing a torrential downpour of bubbly while the Dragons superstars will provide the gusts of hot air.

Lenny has some words of advice for the Tigers

The Thailand Tigers retained the Hamilton-Riddell Cup they took from the Hong Kong Dragons in 2006 with an 13 point victory over the visitors in front of a big crowd at the Pattaya polo club ground.

After falling to a five goal deficit, the Dragons stormed home in the second half to get within 10 points of the home side before the final siren sounded in the 14-a-side clash with the Tigers 13 points clear.

The Dragons started with Coz, Troy, Mick and Deano (ruck) in the guts. Backs were Mrad, Mongoose (Hughie), Boges, Lips, Crites. Forwards were Lenny, Wigger (Tom Stonier), Will, Faulks and Ralphie. Interchange was Carl, who played mainly on a wing, Doddsy who was in a forward pocket, Gav, who stepped out in the final seconds but was great support, Marathon Man Sam (mate of Mrad) and Dragon-for-a-day Kev, who played well around the ground. Special thanks to goal umpire Mohammed Mrad.

On a hot day with a two-goal breeze blowing to the northerly end, the Dragons controlled the ball for much of the first quarter but were unable to capitalise uip forward. The Tigers, fielding a taller and bigger squad, won the crucial aerial duels and turned possession into goals. At quarter time, the Tigers led 3.2-20 to 0.2-2.

Ralph takes a big grab in the goal square

The second quarter was a chess match, with both sides unable to convert opportunities. Ralph (four goals) eventually got the Dragons on the scoreboard but the Tigers managed two for the quarter from free kicks. At half time it was the Tigers 5.5-35 to Dragons 1.4-10.

Facing a possible blow-out, the Dragons regrouped at half time and swung key spine players into different roles. Crites and Mongoose went forward, Lenny dropped back, Boges moved to the guts to tag key Thai playmaker Hooie. Also dangerous for the Tigers were Jesus in the guts, Big Cleave (named Tigers BOG) and Aggots (3 goals).

The third quarter started with Mick Finnegan (voted Dragons BOG) roving the Thai ruckman to perfection and slamming down the guts where the Dragons goaled. Deano rucked superbly all day unchanged and was winning his share of tap-outs. With Lips outstanding in his rare backline sojourn, Lenny and Crites firing, Mick dominant in the centre and Will and Cozza manning up well against dangerous opponents, the Tigers were limited to two goals for the quarter. Wigger, who had taken many marks but kicked inaccurately, goaled and Ralphie added to his tally and the Dragons booted four. At the final turn it was 7.6-48 to 5.4-34.

With the scent of a possible upset in the air, the Dragons were as pumped as any team that had preceded it in the navy blue and red. A torrid final quarter saw a couple of flare-ups around the ground. When Bogan, who kept Hooie to a single kick in the second half, snapped a goal (according to the unerring eye of Mohd Mrad) over his head while lying on his back in the goal square, it was down to eight points the difference. But the Tigers struck back straight out of the centre within seconds and the margin would therein only be altered by minor scores. Final score: Thailand 8.7-55 to Hong Kong 6.6-42.

The entire Dragons squad put in a very commendable effort against a Tigers outfit that has definitely stepped up a notch and will be expected to claim some big scalps at the Asian Champs. With other players left behind in the capital for this match, they may well have their sights set much higher. For the Dragons, it was a great chance for a number of players to stake a claim to a spot in the Champs side and brilliant hit-out marked by a gutsy come-back.

A great tour saw the Dragons sing and dance their way through Pattaya before heading to capital for an irreverent Sunday afternoon.

The hotel accommodation is top class and basement price (actual photo).

T'was the week of the tour ....

After much vacillation, we have somehow conjured a touring party to enter the fray in Pattaya, Thailand..

The squad of 18 players is as follows: Lenny, Carl, Mick, BGF (Gav), Sam Mrad plus brother Mohammed (non-player) and marathon-running mate, Tom Stonier, Troy Harris, Hughie the Mongoose, Will, Ralph, Doddsy, Boges, Deano, Faulks, Cozza, Crites, Lips.

The game is on at 3pm and consists of four 15-minute quarters.

To see the hardships we are facing, you can check-out the accommodation at www.cosybeachhotel.com

The rhetoric part of the story

For 18 brave souls, this is a tour into the heart of darkness. We will be outnumbered, on unfamiliar terrain, physically exhausted, possibly malnourished, dehydrated and lacking heavy artillery. We may be diminutive in number but in the words of our wartime leader John Curtin when the Japs were attacking the Australian mainland and ruling the Pacific and South-east Asian rim, "F-ck 'em" (actually, he was talking about the lack of support from Churchill's Brits, but you get my drift).

Thailand (who sided with the Japs in WW2, but I digress) will be prolific in number, well-drilled, bouyed by recent victories and motivated to atone for past ill-treatment at the hands of the mighty Dragons. This will be no picnic. We have toured with less (and lost on both occasions) but numbers will not daunt us. We have four or five debutants on tour so at worst we'll have something to amuse us.

Although we number less than 20, this tour will be big in many other ways. We have three Dragons on board with a combined 29 years and 150 games of Dragons experience so tour traditions will be strictly enforced - which is a good thing. The apres football scene will also likely see closer involvement between the Tigers and Dragons, who will share a bus and hotel and both be away from home and intent on having a rollicking good time.

The side is packed with mid-field type running players but lacking in height. Hopefully, by the end of the weekend, we'll be likening the side the Western Bulldogs. We are a big chance to win this one and the eyes of the Thai media will be upon us. The press release from the Tigers has been picked up by the world's news agencies.

The squad is fit with the exception of Doddsy, who tweaked a hammy at training Sunday and will undergo a fitness on a Pattaya dance floor Friday night.

Pre-tour report, June 20

The Dragons July 25-27 tour to Chonburi and Pattaya takes the team into unchartered territory to tackle a menacing Thailand tigers team that never fails to throw down a challenge. We urgently require a commitment from players to secure air tickets and hotel (pictured) bookings.

Email tours@hk-dragons.com to indicate if you plan to come on the tour to play the Tigers, who are fresh off a big home win over a talented Jakarta Bintangs side. Numbers need to be confirmed now. A lot of planning goes into such an ambitious and exciting tour into the unknown so get on board straight away.

The plan
This is a tour like few others. Bangkok is well-estrablished on the Asian circuit but Pattaya promises to be a new experience with great playing facilities and unique apres football scene. Events will unfold pretty much like this: Pick up at Bkk Airport on Friday 25th and transfer to Pattaya, Saturday 26th July transfer to/from Pattaya accom / ground, Sunday morning 27th transfer back to Bkk for a lock-in session.

Spondoolies

For all overland transport and the luxury accommodation it is an incredibly low, low 3200thb (approx 720hkd) per person for two nights (twin share). The bus promises to be a major part of the festivities - a 50 seater to be shared with the Tigers. It will be a good chance to see who tackles the pre- and post-game routine in the soundest manner. All drinks, fruit etc on game day are also included, (including a couple of frosty ones after the game).

Single room requirements will warrant an additional charge of 2000thb for the 2 nights (HK$465).

The two clubs will be playing for the long-running Riddel-Hamilton Trophy. the last two times the teams met in a full-length match was in Kanchanaburi in an epic Anzac clash. The Dragons had thought they'd won by a point but in a DVD-gate scandal, the game was declared a draw weeks later. Full report of that April 2006 epic is at:
http://www.hk-dragons.com/results_report.php?article_id=TCETAVA-H11V9UV-K2WF01E-JAZSMMN (or go to Game Write-ups, April 2006).

Training

With all that in mind, it is imperative we get in shape for the tour. Training is on this Sunday (June 29) at 3.30-5pm at the Stanley Ho Sports Ground in Sandy Bay , Pok Fu Lam. The following week, Sunday July 6 is at 5:00-6:30. Both sessions on Pitch number 1, which is the long synthetic grass pitch we used in the last session before the 2007 Champs. Map to the ground found under Club Info/Grounds. Bring runners, not excuses.

Typhoon warnings mean little when beer is at stake.

THE FIREBREATHER

Last call
This is the last chance to commit to to the Dragons tour of Pattaya in Thailand, departing afternoon of July 25. If you want in, email president@hk-dragons.com immediately.

Junk trip and photo gallery
The Dragons junk trip saw 40 players and WAGS and sponsors set off into the teeth of the typhoon, unperturbed by anything other than the contents of the esky. A great day was had once club Social Coordinator Bowski turned up to his own gig 40 minutes late. Two hefty sculls of glasses of warm red wine duly sorted him out. The junk sailed to an island off Sai Kung, where half the team swam to the beach for a game of Frisbee Ultimate. Was a great day, hugely successful and the photos are now up on the website - Photo Gallery/Dragons in Action section. Check them out.

Manila Cup photo gallery
A handful of photos of the Manila tour are up on the website's photo gallery. We are still awaiting the promised delivery of a disc of professional photos taken at the ground by the event's photographers and will hopefully be able to add those soon.

New committee member
Mark Corrie has joined the Dragons committee, taking on the role of Merchandising Manager. Cozza will be responsible for ordering, selling, storing and managing the club's new playing gear, tour shirts and accessories.
With the departure of club treasurer and merchandiser Nico from Hong Kong, and the stepping down of committee member Byrne early in the year, the club was very much in need of another hand on deck.
Cozza was only selected after undergoing a rigorous selection process that involved begging, cajoling and false promises of fame and glory. He passed the interview under the palm trees at Happy Valley training ground and met the advertised criteria for the position: Able to use phone, email. Preferred candidate will have a small cupboard.

Cozza brings his special skills set to the Dragons committee

The committee now comprises:
Boges - President, Media/Website Manager, Sponsorship Manager
Stoochy - Tour Manager, Treasurer (Boges/Stooch now the club's registered bank signatories).
Baby Dragon/Bowski - Co-organisers of the Social Ministry.
Cozza - Merchandising.

New profiles
Take a look at the Player Profiles section of the website to see the latest additions: Ralph, Will, Cozza, Skipper Baron, Turkish, JT and the Spider.

Tour news
The Dragons second tour of the year will see the club take on the Thailand Tigers in the province of Chonburi, near Pattaya. The team will fly out Friday morning July 25 and immediately head down the road to Pattaya, an hour or so to the east on the Gulf of Thailand. This will be the team's base for Friday, Saturday's game and the post-match festivities. The team will then board its luxury tour bus for a Sunday session in Bangkok before returning to HK that night.

We need to get numbers and names to the Tigers for accommodation purposes by July 7 so you will be asked for a commitment very soon. Get on board for what promises to be a tour in unchartered territory.

Wombats in Hanoi
While the Dragons were winning the Manila Cup, the Vietnam Swans were playing host to a revitalised singapore Wombats. The Wombats are said to be attracting huge numbers to the training track and promise to be a force again after a mediocre Asian Champs in 2007.

As they did against the Dragons late last year, the Swans had their chances in Hanoi, trailing by just two goals at half time. But six unanswered goals to the visitors saw them run out winners, 76-35 points. Both sides had played in their new-look jumpers. The Swans are now looking tour Laos to take on the elephants in mid-July.

"Playing football with antlers was always going to be a challenge"

Committe opening

With the departure of club treasurer and merchandiser Nico from Hong Kong, and the stepping down of committee member Byrne early in the year, your club now needs another hand on deck. The number of blokes now involved in the surprisingly time-consuming role of running the club is at a minimum.

The club is now seeking a mamber to step up to the plate to take on the role of Merchandising Manager, to order, sell, store and manage the club's playing gear, tour shirts and accessories. Nico managed to handle this with the treasury but the current board has absorbed the finance side of the portfolio.

At Present the committee is quite heavily burdened, with the new portfolio distribution as follows:
Boges - President, Media/Website Manager, Sponsorship Manager (major new announcement coming soon, in this regard).
Stoochy - Tour Manager, Treasurer (Boges/Stooch now the club's registered bank signatories).
Baby Dragon/Bowski - Co-organisers of the Social Ministry.

A committee meeting will be held at Bulldogs on Wednesday 7pm (June 11), with all current ministers confirmed. All members are welcome to attend but we would especially like to fill this vacancy by Wednesday.

Email president@hk-dragons.com if you would like to help the club.

Also on the agenda Wednesday is upcoming tours, finances, major new sponsorship, social events (including the June 28 Dragons Junk Trip), merchandise, tour short production, media and promotion and more. If you want have a say, come down, or email your thoughts and suggestions to president@hk-dragons.com

President Boges

Connor Finnegan - "Dad's wit and charm" (but too young for Auskick)

Birth notices
Mick Finnegan has, via his lovely wife Sonia, dropped another one. Connor Michael Finnegan, entered the Dragons Junior Training Programme at 10.28am Monday morning. Not that long ago it was Dad getting in at 10.28am on Monday mornings. How times change. But back to Connor - he came in at 3.3kg (7lb 3.5oz) and according to Dad "was winking at the nurse and appears to have his father's wit, charm and great sense of humour." Lucky lad. The little fella has two older sisters.

Dwarfing the opposition
Overheard recently:
Dragon one: "We should get to Manila as early as possible on the Friday of the tour. It's a good city to walk around."
Dragon two: "No it's not! What is there to see when 'walking around' Manila?"
Dragon One: "I dunno. Lotsa stuff. Dwarf bars and stuff."

New past player profile
An old Dragon has gotten in touch with the club to praise its professionalism in the modern era. Check out what The Fridge has to reminisce about at the bottom of the Past Players section.

Here is what Fridge had to say via email from Melbourne: "As a former Dragons player (circa 2001-02), I have only just been directed to your website and thought I'd drop you a line to say what a credit the site is for the great game of Australian Rules Football."

"It is fantastic to see that the Dragons continue to provide the global benchmark for the game. My only complaint, and it is a minor one, is that Farmer is made to look far too intelligent in his profile photograph."
Regards, Peter 'Fridge' Sexton

Doing the business
Dragons business cards, in their very own embossed logo card holders, are now located at the entrance to Bulldogs LKF and on the bar, front row centre, at Bulldogs Wan Chai. Grab some off the president for your wallet next time you see him and get recruiting.

Manila Tour
The Dragons will be part of a six-team super tournament in Manila, hosted by the Eagles, from May 30 - June 1. Be sure to book that Friday off work ASAP and be ready for what promises to be a sensational tour. Confirm your intended presence by emailing Steroid Stooch on tours@hk-dragons.com
Full tour details to follow later in the month.

Pay up now
All dragons need to do the following:
Pay your subs. Thanks to very stringent audit controls by the committee (namely keeping Byrne away from the bank account) we are pleased to be able to say that the rampant inflation in China will not affect us and subs will still be maintained at 2006 levels of HK$500.

Name: Hong KongDragons Australian Rules Football Club
Bank: HSBC
Account No.: 502-413594-838

Once you have paid send an email to chris.nicolay@gs.com with the confirmation number so we can record it. We also have a new initiative this year, called "no pay no play no exceptions". Manila included.

Coach Wines up against the 2004 vintage Philippines Eagles.

The Asian excitement machine that is the Hong Kong Dragons are set to embark on one of the great regional tours, when they travel this week to Manila for a five-team tournament.

The Dragons leave Friday to take on the Manila Eagles, and teams from China and Malaysia on May 31. It will be the thrid time the club has landed on Philippines shores, the first being in 2004 when the Eagles defeated the Dragons in their very first international. The following year saw the Dragons head to Manila for the Asian Championships, where they were confident of securing their third consecutive crown. The team could only struggle to fourth place.

So cometh 2008 and a chance to put together the club's first worthy performance on the exalted soil that lies across the South China Sea.

The Dragons are sending a contingent of about 34 tourists, some of whom are even playing in the 12-a-side tournament.

For those not in the touring party, tune in to the website over the weekend, where we will hopefully be able to bring you breaking news of the scores by Saturday night.

For those touring, be instructed to visit the Club Info/Club Song section of the website. Learn the lyrics or be answerable to veteran tour Finesmaster, Harty.

Rules
All players need to take notwe of some of the rules specific to this tournament.

1. No score will be registered if the ball is kicked from outside the 35 metre arc and passes thru the goals or behinds. If this does happen, the ball will be kicked in just as if a behind had been scored. If a player takes a mark within the 35 and needs to go out of the arc to take his kick, he is permitted to have a chance to score.
2. At each centre ball up/throw up, there must be no more than 4 players in the centre zone of the ground and no more than 4 players in each attacking and defensive zones. Once the ball leaves the umpires hand, players are free to move out of or into any of the 3 zones.
3. At any ball up/throw up or boundary throw in, there is to be no more than one player from each team to contest the hit out.
4. Without umpires, there is no game. No matter who is umpiring, respect must be to be paid to the umpires. Any abuse against an umpire will result in a 25 metre penalty.

Times: Each game will consist of two 12-minute halves, with a six-minute half time. The grand final will be 15 min halves and a 10-minute interval .

Team buses leave the hotel at 8am Saturday morn. First game is at 9. The Grand Final is at 4.20pm.

Auskick started on May 10

Auskick starts
Auskick is an international programme to develop and promote participation in Australian rules football amongst children, and has proven to be popular with both boys and girls. Hong Kong kids aged five and above can now take part. Auskick coordinator, Peter Dahl, can be contacted by email to: aussierules_hkkids@yahoo.com.au

Peter said, "Things are coming together, finally. We started registration on Sat 26th April and had our first practice on Saturday, May 10 at Happy Valley racetrack infield on the far rugby pitch. We welcome all to join us and registration can be done any Saturday you turn up. The only restriction on age is school attendance. ie reception /prep. "

The season will be at Happy Valley until mid-June then Kings Park until end August/ early Sep, with July off for holidays. Unfortunately we lost half the season at Kings Pk due to renovations, hence the split in locations. Kings Pk should be great for 2009 with all synthetic pitches and upgraded facilities.

Auskick is sponsored by Hard Yakka and Allied Pickfords.

The Wilson Trail squad had their heads in the clouds

A coterie of Dragons hit the Wilson Trail for a weekend training run with a difference last Saturday (April 5). Not content to walk the trail, they ran the track before tackling the fabled Twin Peaks.

Ten dedicated team members started the Trail at Parkview estate, above Tai Tam Reservoir. Steroid Stuchy was the prime mover in getting everyone to run the bulk of the trail to the towering peaks of mythology. Nico was bedecked in more electronic gadgetry than South Park's Cartman in the episode where he has a satellite protruding from his date, so there was no chance of getting lost or risking a coronary due to high blood pressure.

Among other starters were Superstar DJ Robbie, the Wildman of Malta Mals, Innocent Mick 'I'm late home before I've started' Finnegan, Handy Dave Hanny, Dazzler 'Is my hair alright in this shot' Whitfield, Simon 'I Swear The Only Times I've Ever Been Here Are When I've Seen You' Dodds and the right honorable President Bogan.

A big welcome to new kid in town, Daniel 'Rent-boy' Renton, who showed promising fitness but after living the past 15 years in Cambodia and beyond, promises little by way of recent footy form. Daniel, who bears a striking resemblance to one Daniel Vettori, has recently arrived in HK and is already keen to tour, probably on the proceeds of the illegal logging funds that have filtered down to him from Prime Minister Hun Sen's education budget.

The hike starts with a stair climb that leaves you taxed after 15 minutes. We were quickly rewarded with a stunningly scenic white-out atop our first hill. With visibility at 2 metres, Steroid called for the run and we were away. Like rally cars darting through the undergrowth on the loose gravel - hard left, medium right - we made our way as if pursued by Japs invading North Point in the early 1940's.

Mick 'Can somebody tell me what a love hotel is ' Finnegan makes the arduous climb up Peak One.

At the crossroads that determine whether you go over the 1000s of steps that are the Twin Peaks, or circumnavigate them on the flat, a schism formed in the squad.

Mals and Superstar DJ flashed a pair of Notes From My Mum Excusing Me From PE quicker than Besty pulling a pair of Aces of Spades from his his shirt sleeve. Nico was receiving satellite signals indicating that his mass spectrometer was defibrillating due to a red-shift overheat of his carbon-dater. They were excused.

For the remainder of the squad, those hardened in the jungles of Kokoda, their will tempered on the slopes of Everest, those hardy Dragons pushed forth into the heat-haze and the rarified atmosphere that is .... the Two Puppies, the Headland Headlights, The Double Orbs, The Two Whoppers ... THE TWIN PEAKS.

Soon the inspiring scenery was a blur through sweat-stung eyes. But just as Stuch was about to drink his own bodily expulsions, we reached the Peak. The first one. Then we did it again. Eventually the Stanley Isthmus lurched into view and in seeming seconds we were transported into another world - a world of tv footy, steaks and beers; except for President Bogan, who had lemonade and an expensive salad.

NOTE: Photo gallery pics can be seen under Photo Gallery/Dragons in Action.

Outgoing President Byrne: Led from the front

Breaking news
The Super Tuesday committee meeting to decide a new president and any other contested committee posts has been again been moved, and will now take place on Tuesday night, Feb 12. The venue, LKF Bulldogs at 7.30pm, remains unchanged.

The late change was made in the hope more new members will be able to get along, unhindered by Chinese New Year holidays or Valentines Day (VD). The meeting had been put back to Feb 14. In a positive development, the Dragons email list of 200+ failed to pick up on the fact it was VD. It had been thought VD would be a great way of putting potential committee members under the microscope by seeing who would attend the meeting rather than some over-priced dodgy curry house with candles and their Mrs.

President steps down
After a rollercoaster two years in charge of the Hong Kong Dragons, President Nathan Byrne has announced he will be resigning from the highest office in HK sport.

Byrnes-eye has been instrumental in resurrecting the on and off-field fortunes of the Dragons, overseeing an increase in membership, access to grounds when needed and our ascent to our rightful place as Asian Champs. He has also usurped the role of tour manager, a time-consuming and sometimes thankless task yet arguably the most important in the club.

Treasurer Chris Nicolay, a tireless back-room servant of the club since taking over the bankbooks from Corky last year, had announced his retirement but on Friday told the media the resignation was the result of a misworded press release. He has also been a key figure in the membership drive, as he faced the most onerous task confronting any sporting club - coaxing money from players.

Regardless of incumbents own intentions, all positions will be open to nomination from all Dragons. All positions, including the presidency and the media, treasury, social and tour manager positions are open to application and contest at the Feb 14 committee meeting. It will be held at Lan Kwai Fong Bulldogs at 8pm. Support your club.

THE FIREBREATHER

Oz Day Post feature
In a major media coup for the club, the Hong Kong Dragons featured in an exclusive story (with photo) about the best footy club in Asia. The Dragons were the centrepiece of the South China Morning Post's Australia Day liftout on Jan. 26.
Full story as it appeared in the paper in news section of this website.

AFL.com praise Dragons win
The following article appears on the AFL's official website, under the headline, Steady Asia.
Elsewhere in Asia, growth was steady in Japan (celebrating 20 years of footy), and the Samurai won the football carnival at the Arafura Games in Darwin, undefeated. In many of the Asian one club countries junior clinics were conducted and tentative signs were visible of the game putting down roots with local participation. Indonesia was particularly encouraging, with plenty of junior development there, whilst Laos started up their first senior side.

The Asian Championships continued to grow in significance, with 11 teams attending in 2007. The Hong Kong Dragons defeated the Bali Geckos in the final, and as more locals take up the game across Asia, hopefully we'll see this tournament emerge as a showcase for star Asian footballers.

To go the article, the link is:
http://www.afl.com.au/InternationalCupNews/News/NewsArticle/tabid/208/Default.aspx?newsId=54700

Oz Day Party
Dragon groupie and self-acclaimed rock god Macca will be starring at the annual V13 Australia Day bash at the Vodka Bar. From 6pm - 9pm it is happy hour on Aussie drinks. There's a sausage sizzle and tunes from some accomplished muso types. A rendition of alternative club anthem, The Stinker 18, can be expected. As classic as the FE Holden.

The year in webstats
The successful year that was 2007 was also a success for the Dragons' portal to its fans, opponents and the world. The website had a huge year, recording 18,186 visits to the site, totalling 339,000 page views and 750,000 hits.
The website was launched in May 2006 and has proven a consistent magnet for readers of the Dragons' on and off-field success. More than half a million hits were recorded in 2006.
July towered above the other months this year, as readers lapped up the Asian Champs victory stories, player profiles (all still on the site under the News menu) and photo galleries.
September (Beach Party and more Champs reports) was also solid.
December was relatively quiet for web traffic, especially from the 13th of the month as the festive season gathered steam. Notable trends this month were the return to the top of the charts of US, Britains slide and the rise of Taiwan. The top ten countries to visit the site last month (after HK and Oz) is as follows:

November Top 10.......................December Top 10
Japan..........................................United States
Denmark......................................Japan
Netherlands.................................commercial
Indonesia.....................................unknown
South Korea................................Taiwan
Switzerland.................................Netherlands
China............................................Thailand
Philippines....................................Singapore
Germany......................................Great Britain
United Kingdom.............................UAE

Honourable mention to Malta, at 14 in the hit parade (The Maltese Falcon 500's rellies maybe?).

Local media coverage
The Dragons also received some unlikely publicity this month, with a prominent snapshot of their website appearing on page 21 of CityU Today, the magazine of Hong Kong's prestigious world top 200-ranked university.

Dadda Dave
Dave Rial, the winner of the Dragons 2004 Clubman of the Year, became a father on Saturday morning (Dec 22), with the arrival of 3.7kg baby girl Phoebe. Wife B (her nickname, not ranking) is in good health after the eventful 7am delivery that saw some late changes to the original schedule. The young girl now has Mama B and Auntie A, wife of former Dragons wingman Uncle Tim Keogh. Dave is pictured on the mainpage signing autographs in Chennai to his many international followers. (see all club honours under the History section of the website. Check out Tim's profile in the Past Players section).

The annals of history
Take a look at the History section of the website to read the 2006 and 2007 annual reports, encapsulating two of the most amazing years in the club's proud history - a spoon and a cup. As well as the kitchenware, also visit the Links in the Club Info section that have been updated to include a few of the newer teams on the Asian footy circuit. Great way to kill some down time once you've read all the papers at work.

Triplets, triplets, triplets
No stranger to defying the odds, Shannon Morgan is about to become a father of triplets! Shannon and wife Liz will be one of the one in 8,100 pregancies that result in triplets. The sad news is it looks like the amazing news will see the couple returning to Oz to take on the fun-filled challenge in the company of family and friends. The head-wetting celebration will have to be scheduled as a three-day blow-out.

Get a run on
Stoochy Junior Burger and Tommy Polk took part in a December 2 run around Disneyland. The pair clocked in a half marathon in the more than respectable time of 1hr 42min. Peripheral Dragon tipster Woodsy did the 10km earlier in the morning in a reputed 51min.

The Dragons' movers and shakers

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Firebreather archive
All Firebreather columns are now archived every now and then. See News menu for all previous stories and columns.
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DROP PUNT US A LINE
We're always keen to hear a candidate for Quote of the Week or Excuse of the Week.
Or have you got any goss' you wanna spread, news tips we simply have to know about or cries for help that need an audience? Drop a line to media@hk-dragons.com
The editor will guarantee confidentiality, while ensuring no-one threatens us with libel or physical retribution.

The schedule for training for the next 4 weeks will be quite varied. All details are below. This Saturday's hike is a great fitness workout and chance to get out of the city and take in some special HK scenery. Also a chance to secure a spot on the Dragons photo gallery to show the folks overseas what they're missing, as we will be compiling a photo gallery of the day's assault on the notorious Twin Peaks.

The training schedule is:
Saturday April 5th: There will be a (compulsory) team assault on the Wilson trail from "Parkview" to Stanley. Start at 10:30am and finishing at Stanley Main beach. Perhaps an ideal chance to have your family/friends meet you there for a drink and lunch (and swim?) about 1:00pm at the beach. Make it a team and family event.
Parkview is a housing estate on the Hill behind the Hong Kong Cricket Club (taxis will know it but the steep walk up from the cricket club starts at the petrol station if you get off a #6 or #66 bus there). We will meet at the very crest of the hill at Parkview and leave promptly at 10:30am. If you have never done this walk, bring water and some easily carried food - energy bars, bananas etc.

We have lost the Happy valley pitch for two weeks and had to access Stanley Ho sports grounds at HKU, Sandy Bay Road, Pokfulam for the following two weeks: Only Saturdays available. Taxis or number 10 Green Mini bus at Admiralty are the best ways to get there.
Sat 12th April: 5pm-6:30 synthetic football field Sandy Bay road (Runners only)
Sat 19th April: 11am - 12:30pm synthetic football field Sandy bay Road (Runners only)

Sunday 27th April 4:30-6:00 back to the Happy Valley grass.

Jarrod Tidd and girlfriend Danielle were inseparable

THE FIREBREATHER

Party night
The Dragons first social event of the year was on Saturday night (March 15) and proved to be a great chance for players old and new, and their wives and partners, to get together for an evening of revelry while collecting some insiders tips on the latest haute couture sweeping Paris from resident trendsetter, Josh Ryder (even the name reeks of A-list celebrity - or is it more Adult Movie...) .

The night was moved to Wan Chai Bulldogs, where Karl and Marcus looked after us and provided Bulldogs Top Crew cards to all members in attendance.

Wan Chai has been home to some of the Dragons finest performances and this was no different, dragging into the early hours of the morning in the all the right and wrong places.

The club finemaster was also seen taking notes during the rugby boys' serious fine session taking place in the same venue. The hairy nipple seemed to attract his particular interest.

Player profiles
Check out the latest additions to the player profiles. Scroll down the list to get the dirt on Swiss, Spyder, JT, Daz and Mick.

Meaning business
The Dragons have now produced their own business cards which can be collected upon request from President Boges at training or the pub. It's all part of the new level of professionalism the Dragons aspire to. Keep a few in your wallet and hand them out to anyone who might want to come down for a run or throw vast sums of money at us. Our sponsor Bulldogs have also kindly agreed to let us place some card dispensers on the bar permanently.

Grova birth
Former Dragon and HK socialite John 'Grova' Anderson (see Past Players section) and his footy-mad wife Melinda have had their first child. Grova fired this missive to The Firebreather.

"Just to update you Mel gave birth to a lass, 'Lucinda Anne'. Apparently she has already been tagged a Pies supporter, according to Mel. Both are fine and back at the apartment.

Here in HK until the beginning of April and then bak to Aus (some time) depending on what the work opportunities are like. So am sure to catch up for a few beers, long lunches, or a few networking sessions in East Admiralty."

Cheers, John (Grova)

New committee
President Bogan headed up the new-look Dragons committee last night to usher in season 2008 and to lay the groundwork for another scintillating season. The club has secured four major sponsorships, with others in the pipeline. Fosters, Michael Page, Westpac and Bulldogs Bar are all on board and other deals are being arranged that will hopefully add further value to the club membership. Members will pay 500 again this year, which will go towards running the club, paying for the grounds and new kit. New members will receive some gear, such as shorts, socks, bag and stubby holder. Manila will be the first tour on May 31, all all tourists must be paid up members. The first social event is at Bulldogs on March 15.
The committee covered a lot of ground, and is in good shape. The many initiatives being planned will be revealed in due course. So hop on board the Dragons gravy train and get down to Happy Valley for the first training run of the year on Sunday, March 9 at 6pm and March 16 at 4.30pm.

Dragons reuniting
Chatter picked up by the CIA over the internet says that not-so-long-ago departed former Dragons captain Burbs is eschewing the squalls of Melbourne for the sapping humidity and heat of Abu Dhabi. Word is he will be joining up with fellow legal beagle and former Dragon flouro-booter Damo McNair, aka McVague. With Webby also lurking in Abu Dhabi, the boys should look at getting a run with a Gulf team and touring HK this year.

All time best list
See if we can get a debate rolling here. All feedback to media@hk-dragons.com welcomed. The club's resident Mr Football, former president Farmer, has submitted his list of the top ten all time Dragons. This is how it goes from the man who can recite hard ball get stats from specific Dragons games played in 1994.

1. Will Hamilton
2. Hamish Stuart
3. Aaron Bester
4. Graeme Rigg
5. Damian McNair
6. Simon Dixon
7. Phil Reid
8. Nick Kendell
9. Nick Hyland
10. Nathan Byrne

Nick Hyland, pictured at cruising altitude, comes in at no 9.

More lists: Website keeps growing
February 2008 saw a slight increase in hits to website compared to the previous month as footy started to enter people's consciousness.
Excluding HK and Oz, the top ten visiting countries viewing the website were

January Top 10...........................February Top 10
United States...............................United States
Great Britain................................Canada
Singapore....................................Singapore
France.........................................UAE
Macau..........................................Great Britain
China............................................Japan
Netherlands..................................Netherlands
Qatar............................................China
UAE..............................................Qatar
Philippines.....................................India

Oz Day Post feature
In a major media coup for the club, the Hong Kong Dragons featured in an exclusive story (with photo) about the best footy club in Asia. The Dragons were the centrepiece of the South China Morning Post's Australia Day liftout on Jan. 26.
Full story as it appeared in the paper in news section of this website.

AFL.com praise Dragons win
The following article appears on the AFL's official website, under the headline, Steady Asia.
Elsewhere in Asia, growth was steady in Japan (celebrating 20 years of footy), and the Samurai won the football carnival at the Arafura Games in Darwin, undefeated. In many of the Asian one club countries junior clinics were conducted and tentative signs were visible of the game putting down roots with local participation. Indonesia was particularly encouraging, with plenty of junior development there, whilst Laos started up their first senior side.

The Asian Championships continued to grow in significance, with 11 teams attending in 2007. The Hong Kong Dragons defeated the Bali Geckos in the final, and as more locals take up the game across Asia, hopefully we'll see this tournament emerge as a showcase for star Asian footballers.

To go the article, the link is:
http://www.afl.com.au/InternationalCupNews/News/NewsArticle/tabid/208/Default.aspx?newsId=54700

Take your pick - would you prefer this momentous spectacle or ....

The Australia Network has made some minor improvements to its scheduling of AFL games in response to a huge Dragons campaign sweeping Asia (details just below). The AFL has vowed to look into the fiasco surrounding coverage of AFL games in Asia being relgated to a middle of the night timeslot.

The Australian Network have requested that all complaints are made through the "contact us" system located on their website:

http://australianetwork.com/about/contact.htm

... or this, ummm, spectacle?

Small improvements to coverage
Thank you for your recent comment about our scheduling of the 2008 AFL season.

You will be pleased to know that the schedule will be revised as of 11 April, and will conform to the following basic pattern:

1. An average of four matches per weekend will be shown: one on Friday night, one on Saturday afternoon, one on Saturday night, and one on Sunday afternoon.

2. No matches will be shown on Sunday nights.

3. When there is no Super 14s match to be shown at 2100 (Hong Kong time) on Friday or Saturday, the AFL match will be shown between 2100 and 2400.

4. When a Super 14s match is shown at 2100 on Friday or Saturday, the AFL match will follow it at 2300.

5. There will be occasional exceptions to this pattern. On Saturday 12 April, for instance, the matches will be shown at 1230 and 1730, and on Anzac Day, Friday 25 April, the Collingwood vs Essendon match will be shown at 1330, and the Fremantle vs Geelong match will be shown at midnight.

The changes for the weekend 11-13 April are already on our website schedule. The changes for subsequent weekends will appear very soon.

Nico retains the keys to the vault.

The Hong Kong Dragons will kick off season 2008 with a Bogan for a President and a mix of old and new powerbrokers in the Cabinet. The first committee meeting of the year heralded a changing of the guard and brought news of touring and other plans for the season ahead.

A huge agenda confronted the Dragons committee at their latest pow-wow. With the formal resignation of celebrated former President Byrne, a new leader of this great club was nominated. Due in no small part to a dire lack of alternatives, Craig 'Prez' Francis (the footballer previously known as Bogan) was handed the most powerful job in Asian football and the codes to the nuclear silo.

All committee positions were open for nomination and the some changes were made that should drive the club to even greater heights in 2008. Nico retains the treasury, former social manager Stuchy takes the Tours portfolio and former president Byrne will retain an official role as Sponsorship and Recruitment director. Jarrod Tidd will take care of Merchandising and two new faces enter the fray, with Tommy Polk and Dom The Bowski jointly assigned head of the Social Ministry. Bogan retains the Media and Website Ministry and Coach Wines will be the head of the Football Department as training co-ordinator.

Coach Wines heads up the Football Department

Tour news

Pending Happy Valley's availability, training is set to resume on Sunday March 9. The following week would be training, followed by a two week break due to Easter and the Rugby 7s.

The eagerly awaited tour schedule is taking shape with Manila looming as our opening trip. While all tour dates are still not set in stone, a trip to the Philippines for a four-team comp is in the final stages of organisation. Keep the weekend of 31 May free. As well as the Dragons and Eagles, the Jakarta Bintangs and Dubai Dingoes are taking part.

October 11 is pencilled in for a home series at Mission Rd against the visiting Osaka, Malaysia and Dubai. September 6 is confirmed for the Asian Champs in Singapore.

President Boges sheds blood for the Dragons

Sponsorship plays a key role in the success of the club, and as such we once again appreciate the continued support of Fostors, Westpac and Bulldogs Bar who will be behind the club again in 2008. Other sponsorship deals are in the pipeline and you'll be hearing more about the advantages of club membership very soon.

The Dragons will also be aiming to play a role in nurturing its future champions by building on the club's ties with the Auskick junior programme that is held on Saturday mornings and starts again soon. (see email link on News column on left of home page).

Season 2008 is upon us. Time to get excited.

Craig 'Prez' Francis

Feeney and Bogan share a deserved beer after their incredible sporting encounter

Mojo beats Boges in squash classic
ADMIRALTY: Matt 'Mojo' Feeney has secured the Dragons' inaugural intraclub squash competition with a miraculous comeback 5-set victory against Craig 'Boges' Francis.

Mojo went into the match as a firm favourite but the bookies were being mocked when Bogan got within two points of taking the title, leading two sets to nil and coasting in the decider at 7-3. But this was as close to victory as the Bogan would get, as a never-say-die Feeney rose to an inspirational 6-9, 6-9, 9-1, 9-7, 9-6 win.

The two had met on the squash court several times before and enjoyed a fierce rivalry built on competitive games but it was the Mojo who had always taken final honours. This time it was neutral territory on the HK Squash Centre exhibition court, using the white ball. The collective ears of the sporting world had pricked when Bogan led throughout the first set and closed it clinically with a series of lethal forehand kills and well-placed serves. By the end of the second set, the sporting world had risen to its collective feet as one in amazement when Bogan again dispensed with the desperate Mojo, after adding some deft touch shots to the repertoire.

"I knew then I needed a completely new game plan. I didn't know what was happening and to be honest, thought I was a goner," declared Mojo in post-match interviews.

"I decided to just push deep onto his backhand and try and disrupt Bogan's rhythm because he was just hitting too many winners. The plan worked, thankfully and I clawed my way back," he said.

In spectaular style too. The third set was a complete reversal, with Feeney dictating from the centrecourt T. By the fourth set it was game on again. Both players were locked at 6-6 and a procession of lost service points and lengthy rallies had both players close to the brink. It was Feeney who chipped in with the occasional point to edge to a 9-6 win.

"At the end of the fourth set I was close to collapse. My legs had turned to jelly," said Mojo.

Bogan was similarly stretched and looking for a way to recapture the early form.

"No matter how far ahead of Feeney you get in this game, you just know he is going to make you hunt for the next point. It's like being on an ice-breaker in the Arctic - no matter how much you have behind you, you just have to keep on ploughing through. No matter how far ahead, I never felt it was all over," explained Boges.

The final set was gladiatorial. It was Boges who got the early ascendency, moving quickly to a 3-0 lead. But as was the destiny of this truly epic encounter, scores were eventually tied at 6-6. As exhaustion was replaced by desperation, referee Liddle was called upon to make some telling calls. In a mirror of the fourth set, it was a series of points played out without either player able to add to the scoresheet. But as a battle of guile and power turned into one of attrition, it was the Mojo-man who pounced on the hard-to-find points, to take the set and raise two fists in triumph.

The annals of sport had penned another addition to the genre of 'classic'.

EARLIER COMPETITION REPORTS
The GF build-up -
First Mojo toyed with the Jackal, then Boges deflated the Pres - now a date has been set for what promises to be a huge encounter by two supreme athletes at the Hong Kong Squash Centre on Cottontree Drive, opposite the Peak Tram terminal.

The game will be played on the main tournament exhibition court (one), complete with full spectator grandstands.

All Dragons are urged to watch the Friday night, 7-8pm, January 11 final and enjoy a few beers afterwards. Exact time and location to be announced in next day or so. But keep next Friday free for a bit of sledging and admiring of the last two standing.

2nd semi final
Craig 'Bogan' Francis gave a typically confident President Nathan Byrne a squash lesson in the long-delayed and eagerly awaited second semi final of the 2007 intra-club squash competition. Bogan will now meet Mojo Matt Feeney in a blockbuster Grand Final at the HK Squash Centre early in the new year.

Insiders report to the Firebreather that Sunday's (Dec 23) semi had been preceded by the Prez deriding his opponent's prospects and declaring that, "I am a superstar at this game, a natural talent. I really should have taken it up much earlier."
Bogan promptly issued a reminder that some further honing of those 'natural gifts' was still required, in the form of a 9-2, 9-7, 9-1 victory.

The first set at the Hennessy Rd venue was all one-way traffic, with Bogan using a mix of power and guile to control the match. Byrne declared he was a traditional slow starter but quickly fell to a 7-0 deficit in the second set. Bogan, lacking the killer instinct, let Byrne creep back to 7-7 but was stirred into action by some untimely Presidential sledging. 9-7.

The final set almost saw the Prez 'pantsed' but at 8-0 he claimed a point. The game was over in 38 minutes.

A crowd is urged to get behind the two finalists. Feeney will enter the final as a firm favourite, having posted several 3-2 and similarly close victories over Bogan in recent years. But a tough contest is guaranteed and an upset well within the underdog's capability.

1st semi final
Mojo Feeney dispensed with the less experienced The Jackal in a 9-2, 9-0, 9-0 caning on Friday (June 15). Byrnes-eye and the Bogan will now play a much-anticipated semi final in order to meet Feeney in the blockbuster grand final at a date TBA.

A brave Jackal painted a rosier picture than the scoreline might have suggested.

"It took me a while to get the hang of what he was doing by getting back to the middle but I reckon next time it might be a different story," said The Jackal, sounding every bit the New South Welshman.

"Next time?," was the only response of Feeney.

Scroll down for the full draw and results

Feeney brushes aside Rigger
In a surprisingly one-sided affair, arch-rivals 'Mojo' Feeney and Riggsy clashed in their quarterfinal, with Feeney goi8ng through in straight sets.

Despite what he claims are two crippling, geriatric, artrtic knees, Feeney managed to call on the Anzac spirit to fight off Riggsy 9-5, 9-6, 9-7.

Speaking from his surgeon's office (seriously) the day after the clash, Feeney was at his nonchalant best in describing the eagerly-anticipated clash.

"It was nothing really. Just Riggsy. Looking forward to the Grand Final in late May."

Feeney is expected to meet token resistance in the semi against the Jackal. Falcon 500 Mallia and Byrnes-eye will meet very soon in a quarterfinal for the right to meet Bogan for the other grand final slot.

Bogan into last four
In a workmanlike performance, Bogan dispensed with the worthy challenge of the M-Rad in three hard-fought sets, 9-6, 9-3, 9-7.

Staged at the Java Rd Markets court, the two long-time squash adversaries went toe-to-toe to 6-6 before some deft touch from Boges broke the stalemate with three straight points. The second set saw Boges at his efficient best, before Mrad put in a desperate effort before going down 9-7 in the last.

Next games
Riggsy and Feeney are due to meet this week, pending Feeney passing a fitness test on his ageing knees. Byrnes-eye the Giant slayer meets Long-Shot Long-Hair. The two winners will meet Jackal and Bogan in the semi finals. Please arrange games ASAP.

The draw progress thus far:

R1 ................. Quarters ............. Semis...................GF

Shannon v
Feeney .......Feeney v ..............Feeney

Riggsy ...........Riggsy
Mitch v ..FEENEY..

x ....................Jackal v..................Jackal
x ....................Merrett

Liddle
Byrnesy v .......Byrnes v
.............Byrnes
Mals v ...............Taity
Taity .............

Duffy v
Boges .............Boges v ............ Bogan

Mrad v ..............Mrad
Doddsy

Earlier Results
Sam M-Rad eeked out a three set thriller against a brave Doddsy to move into the next round.

Sambo, one of the expected hotshots, relied on all his power and touch to beat Doddsy 9-6, 7-9, 10-8, despite the latter not having played the game for four years.

Feeney, the pre-tournament favourite is now in doubt following a double arthroscopy, although he is still going to take on his nemesis Riggsy in their quarter final clash.

In a massive boilover, the unheralded Byrnes-eye has dumped one of the pre-tournament favourites, Jamie Liddle, from the Dragons squash comp. In a see-sawing five-setter, it was the president who humbled his more decorated opponent. The Pres will now meet the winner of this week's Mrad-Doddsy match, while Liddle will be left in front of the mirror, taking a good, long hard look at himself.

Squash gun Riggsy outpointed novice Mitch in a mismatch but still didn't talk to his opponent until he had secured the three-set to nil victory. Then it was all nice and convivial. He is a player to watch in this tournament. But a final within a final now looms as two giants of the court and arch-rivals meet in round two, Feeney and Riggsy.

The Jackal became the first player to reach the semi finals with a 3-0 victory over Graham Merrett. While one of the sets went to a tie break (10-8), it was the Lethal Leb that had all the answers.

So keep the fixtures rolling. The President has suggested a mighty piss-up and spectator turn-out on the night of the Grand Final

Rules
The two finalists will play five games (max) in this knockout comp. Court availablity in HK is usually not a problem, with courts located opposite the Peak Tram (HK Squash Centre), in Victoria Park, North Point (Electric Rd), Happy Valley and many other locations.

It's a good chance for a bit of hit and run with your teammates and a few beers during a post-match analysis afterwards. Email your results to media@hk-dragons.com

Befitting a club of our historical stature, games will be played in the old fashioned format of first to nine points, with points only earned while serving. Best of five sets, unless both competitors agree that a serious risk of heart attack exists.

An early market was framed pre-tournament by our resident bookie of those who have so far signed up. And it went a little something like this:

Feeney - Evens
Riggsy - 2:1
Bogan - 4:1
Mrad - 8:1
Jamie - 10:1
Mitch 13:1
Byrneseye - 15:1
Duffy - 25:1
Shannon - 33:1
Doddsey - 50:1
Longhair - 50:1
The Jackal - 66:1
Taity - 66:1
'Max' Merrett - 100:1

150:1 and upwards - All others

Get those emails in ASAP to media@hk-dragons.com

It doesn't matter what your playing ability is or whether you use a wooden or graphite racket, the aim is to get the boys a bit fit, mixing more and building some teamwork and Krakouer Brother-like understanding.

THE FIREBREATHER

Oz Day Post feature
In a major media coup for the club, the Hong Kong Dragons will be featured in an exclusive story (with photo of a mystery Dragon) about the best footy club in Asia. The Dragons will be a centrepiece of the South China Morning Post's Australia Day liftout this Saturday (Australia Day, Jan. 26).
Be sure to pick up your copy from the nearest newsagent this weekend and check it out.

AFL.com praise Dragons win
The following article appears on the AFL's official website, under the headline, Steady Asia.
Elsewhere in Asia, growth was steady in Japan (celebrating 20 years of footy), and the Samurai won the football carnival at the Arafura Games in Darwin, undefeated. In many of the Asian one club countries junior clinics were conducted and tentative signs were visible of the game putting down roots with local participation. Indonesia was particularly encouraging, with plenty of junior development there, whilst Laos started up their first senior side.

The Asian Championships continued to grow in significance, with 11 teams attending in 2007. The Hong Kong Dragons defeated the Bali Geckos in the final, and as more locals take up the game across Asia, hopefully we'll see this tournament emerge as a showcase for star Asian footballers.

To go the article, the link is:
http://www.afl.com.au/InternationalCupNews/News/NewsArticle/tabid/208/Default.aspx?newsId=54700

Oz Day Party
Dragon groupie and self-acclaimed rock god Macca will be starring at the annual V13 Australia Day bash at the Vodka Bar. From 6pm - 9pm it is happy hour on Aussie drinks. There's a sausage sizzle and tunes from some accomplished muso types. A rendition of alternative club anthem, The Stinker 18, can be expected. As classic as the FE Holden.

The year in webstats
The successful year that was 2007 was also a success for the Dragons' portal to its fans, opponents and the world. The website had a huge year, recording 18,186 visits to the site, totalling 339,000 page views and 750,000 hits.
The website was launched in May 2006 and has proven a consistent magnet for readers of the Dragons' on and off-field success. More than half a million hits were recorded in 2006.
July towered above the other months this year, as readers lapped up the Asian Champs victory stories, player profiles (all still on the site under the News menu) and photo galleries.
September (Beach Party and more Champs reports) was also solid.
December was relatively quiet for web traffic, especially from the 13th of the month as the festive season gathered steam. Notable trends this month were the return to the top of the charts of US, Britains slide and the rise of Taiwan. The top ten countries to visit the site last month (after HK and Oz) is as follows:

November Top 10.......................December Top 10
Japan..........................................United States
Denmark......................................Japan
Netherlands.................................commercial
Indonesia.....................................unknown
South Korea................................Taiwan
Switzerland.................................Netherlands
China............................................Thailand
Philippines....................................Singapore
Germany......................................Great Britain
United Kingdom.............................UAE

Honourable mention to Malta, at 14 in the hit parade (The Maltese Falcon 500's rellies maybe?).

Local media coverage
The Dragons also received some unlikely publicity this month, with a prominent snapshot of their website appearing on page 21 of CityU Today, the magazine of Hong Kong's prestigious world top 200-ranked university.

Dadda Dave
Dave Rial, the winner of the Dragons 2004 Clubman of the Year, became a father on Saturday morning (Dec 22), with the arrival of 3.7kg baby girl Phoebe. Wife B (her nickname, not ranking) is in good health after the eventful 7am delivery that saw some late changes to the original schedule. The young girl now has Mama B and Auntie A, wife of former Dragons wingman Uncle Tim Keogh. Dave is pictured on the mainpage signing autographs in Chennai to his many international followers. (see all club honours under the History section of the website. Check out Tim's profile in the Past Players section).

The annals of history
Take a look at the History section of the website to read the 2006 and 2007 annual reports, encapsulating two of the most amazing years in the club's proud history - a spoon and a cup. As well as the kitchenware, also visit the Links in the Club Info section that have been updated to include a few of the newer teams on the Asian footy circuit. Great way to kill some down time once you've read all the papers at work.

Triplets, triplets, triplets
No stranger to defying the odds, Shannon Morgan is about to become a father of triplets! Shannon and wife Liz will be one of the one in 8,100 pregancies that result in triplets. The sad news is it looks like the amazing news will see the couple returning to Oz to take on the fun-filled challenge in the company of family and friends. The head-wetting celebration will have to be scheduled as a three-day blow-out.

Get a run on
Stoochy Junior Burger and Tommy Polk took part in the weekend's (Dec 2) run around Disneyland. The pair clocked in a half marathon in the more than respectable time of 1hr 42min. Peripheral Dragon tipster Woodsy did the 10km earlier in the morning in a reputed 51min.

Deuce, Kyoko and Jake

Pending nuptials
Physio Faulks and Lisa Martin have both updated their Facebook status to .... is engaged. Awwwww

Dragon in baby shock
In one of the more surprising developments of the year, newly married former Dragon Garry 'Deuce Bigalow' Frenklah has become a dad. Kyoko delived a 3.3kg (51cm) boy, Jake Kou Frenklah (Nakamura) at 7.49am, November 14 after what the Bigalow described as a "short but intense one-hour natural labour". Short but intense sessions with Bigalow have indeed been productive affairs over the years. Wife, child and father are all doing well.
For those who don't know, Deuce is a club legend of long standing, his status being particularly impressive given he played one game and is rarely seen. He managed to break his wrist in the Dragons worst ever drubbing - but played on regardless. Relive those heady days by going to June 2002 Jakarta match report under Match Results section. It's a good read. Congrats to the Frenklah family.

Faulkner the fundraiser: led the Warriors team of Dragons on the hike from hell.

November web traffic report
Very strange happenings on the web traffic radar this month, with Hong Kong and Australia no longer the most popular sources of traffic. This month it was 'Unknown' coming in at top spot! And in second spot was the previously unseen 'Commercial'. No idea what this means. 'Network' came in fourth. Australia outstripped HK for first time ever and the US, forever the top of the list after these two, came in 19th. So for what it is worth, here's the top ten after the strange ones and and HK, Australia are discounted.

November Top 10........................October Top 10
Japan..........................................United States
Denmark......................................Japan
Netherlands.................................Great Britain
Indonesia......................................UAE
South Korea.................................Singapore
Switzerland..................................Thailand
China............................................Vietnam
Philippines....................................China
Germany......................................Canada
United Kingdom.............................Malaysia

Mixed results for Dragons hikers
Faulks and Ronnie have once again conquered the MacLehose Trailwalker, marching the requisite 100km in 23hrs 40 mins, picking uip speed over the final stages once they had offloaded some luggage. A brave effort from Dicko saw him struggle to the 70km mark before bowing out of the gruelling event. President Byrne faltered early, falling by the wayside after 25km.

"We last saw him curled up on the track in foetal position," said the unflappable Faulks.

Byrnes had boasted that he would devour the distance with a training build-up to the event that centred around drinking heavily at the Spring Racing Carnival in Melbourne and avoiding any hiking in order to "save myself for the big day".

The main page website photo was taken during a basic level hike of the the Dragons Back, and should have served as a prescient warning of what was to follow in the Trailwalker.

Irrespective of the result, the four lads are worthy of high praise for raising lots of money for a worthy charity.

Pin-up boy Benny Davis woos the media

BALLARAT - Former Dragon legend and 2003 Clubman of the Year Ben Davis is the darling of the media set in his home town of Ballarat, receiving page-lead headlines for his exploits, sorry, achievements overseas.

Now residing in Phuket after a tour of duty in Burma, one-time Hong Kong Dragons full-forward Davis has made headline news in the Ballarat Courier with a story carrying a screaming, 48pt bold headline, "His villa view is a far cry from Ballarat's streets.

The story outlines the success story that is its much-loved prodigal son, Ben Davis. Without making mention of his eponymous clothing line, the paper details his resume, from leaving the rough and tumbleweed streets of Creswick to the tumult of burning Burma.

The final stanzas are dedicated to his illustrious sporting achievements across Asia, including his pivotal role in guiding the Dragons, almost singlehandedly, to victory in the 2003 and 2004 Asian Championships. It also mentions his team's victory in the hotly contested Burmese national cricket league.

Never look back

The story begins with his humble origins and follows his "well-worn backpacker path to London. He never looked back".

The story contnues with more New Idea-detail, with the next three paragraphs all starting with the word 'after'.

"After taking in the view from the 29-year-old's villa (Editor Note: 30th birthday details appear at end of this article) overlooking the Andaman Sea at picturesque Surin Beach in Thailand, it is easy to see why."

Evidently, the Chronicle dipped into its travel budget to send a reporter to Mr Davis' oppulent residence.

The story later moves into the realm of international mystery, intrigue and danger, making clear by use of a two-column bold box quotation just how close to death our Benny Boy came at the hands of Burma's military junta.

"Another friend's secretary was downtown during it and was told to either get in the truck or be beaten," read the eye-catching lift-out quote. Friend's secretary? Streuth, that was close!

Great way to see Asia

Of his beloved Dragons, Ben is effusive in his praise. "It's a great way to see the Asia - and touring with 30 or 40 mates is plenty of fun," the paper quoted our man as saying.

Big colourful shoes to fill

These words ring true when you consider all previous winners of the Clubman Award were for dedicated service to the club. With one exception - Mr Davis received his honour purely for being an all-round top bloke, entertainer and obligatory tour accessory.

The article concludes with a plea to their lost diplomat. "As for a permanent return to Ballarat?"

"Unlikely, at least in the near future," says the paper, drawing its own conclusion and leaving forlorn a readership of ugg-booted, tracksuited young women.

Special thanks to Riggsy's mum for locating the article.

PARTY INVITE FROM BEN:
Turning 30 later this month and was planning on heading out on a liveaboard fishing boat for a couple of days to a couple of islands. Plan would be to head off from Phuket on the Saturday morning (26th) and return on the 27th.

If you require Benny's email address, write to media@hk-dragons.com

Craig 'Boges' Francis

No worries about their pink strip clashing with any other team jumpers.

A new team has arrived on the international roster, with the discovery in the jungles of south-east Asia of the Laos Elephants.

The team recently travelled to Hanoi where it was part of a tri-nations tournament involving the Vietnam Swan and the Thailand Tigers. The Lao lads seem to have made a reasonable fist of things, although they lost both games. The Tigers won comfortably in both their matches to win the series.
1. Vietnam Swans 5.2.32 def. Lao Elephants 3.5.23

2. Lao Elephants 4.4.28 def by Thailand Tigers 10.3.63

3. Vietnam Swans 3.0.18 def by Thailand Tigers 12.6.78

Word from the Mekong is that the Laos team train at the 'world famous sandpit' and operate under the banner 'Pants down, Trunks up'.

Asia's newest footy side had 13 players make the trip from the Lao PDR to pull on the pink and grey jumper (pictured above), augmented by eight curious Irishmen who had seen them carrying a Sherrin at the airport and decided to come along for a kick.

The Elephants went down to the Vietnam Swans by nine points in their first-ever match, a gallant effort in extreme heat and humidity with a number of players (not least the Irish) having never played competitive footy before. In the following two games, the Thailand Tigers proved themselves a long way ahead of their Indochinese regional rivals, defeating the Swans 85-21 and the Elephants 63-28.

In a side note for trivia buffs, international footy identity "the Big Rooster" both designed the jumper and took the field for the Elephants, meaning he has now played for teams from 19 countries.

Bintangs struggle

The Brunei Sharks are also lurking around the place, with a game scheduled against Vietnam.

Another post-Champs tour result is in. The Jakarta Bintangs travelled to Singapore last month and lost a close tussle. Final score: Bintangs 9.11 (65) to Wombats 12.14 (86).

The Bali Geckos earlier retained the Java-Bali Cup for the third year in a row, beating home nation rivals Jakarta.
Bali Geckos 14 15 99
Jakarta Bintangs 7 16 58.

The Japanese grand final.

Dingoes bark in Japan, Bali win 9s
The Japan AFL's Top League expanded to outside the Tokyo area this year with the arrival of the Osaka Dingoes bringing the numer of clubs to six. The Dingoes made the local Grand Final but lost to the Tokyo Goannas by 24 points.

Bali beat the Singapore Wombats in the final Bali 9s in front of an impressive crowd that included the Geelong Premiership team. The Geckos are now preparing to host the 2008 Bali 9s Masters, to be held June 7.

China news
In other Chinese footy news, the two expat-based mainland clubs clashed in Shanghai on the weekend of November 10, with the Beijing Bombers having their first-ever away win over the Shanghai Tigers.

At the grassroots level, the Tianjin Normal University (TJNU) footy club has recently branched out to form a club at its Yangcun campus, the newbies debuting last week in an all-Chinese three-team tournament in Tianjin.

The TJNU City and TJNU Yangcun teams were joined by the SiShen Bombers, the local development squad of the Beijing Bombers, with around 50 Chinese students aged 18-22 taking part. The TJNU City side came out on top on the day, defeating Yangcun 36-25 and the SiShen Bombers 43-13, in a tournament enjoyed by all despite the wind and cold weather.