Pick 22 - Luke Dahlhaus

[Cyberdoggie]

Interesting looking character, long dread locks might make him a cult figure.

178cm 72kg
Strong small forward from the geelong falcons, averaged a goal a game in 2 seasons.

[stefoid]

dollhouse?

[Desipura]

Millhouse

[Mofra]

http://www.afl.com.au/News/NEWSARTICLE/tabid/208/Default.aspx?newsId=104415

Height: 177cm
Weight: 72kg
DOB: 21/08/92
Club: Geelong Falcons (Vic)

Bio: Very strong and quick small forward who picks up possessions almost at will. Averaged more than a goal a game in two seasons with the Geelong Falcons. Named in the 2010 TAC Cup Team of the Year.

In his own words
What type of player are you?
Elusive and flexible. I can play back, forward and on ball. Team player.

Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
I think I resemble a Stephen Hill and Cyril Rioli type of player who really runs with the ball and takes on opponents with their ability and lightning speed.

What are your strengths as a footballer?
My speed, agility and being team orientated. I win my own ball and am good at stoppages. Awareness to make quick decisions a split second before other players. Good overhead mark.

What parts of your game would you like to improve?
Improving my accuracy on opposite foot and converting more goals.

Which AFL team do you support and how did you come to barrack for them?
Essendon. I came to barrack for them because of the number of skilful indigenous players I model my game on, by taking on opponents and running the lines while applying pressure with my tackling.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far, and why?
My dad and Garry Hocking, who coached me at different stages of my career. They taught me how to improve my skills and tactical awareness.

[Desipura]

http://www.afl.com.au/News/NEWSARTICLE/tabid/208/Default.aspx?newsId=104415

Height: 177cm
Weight: 72kg
DOB: 21/08/92
Club: Geelong Falcons (Vic)

Bio: Very strong and quick small forward who picks up possessions almost at will. Averaged more than a goal a game in two seasons with the Geelong Falcons. Named in the 2010 TAC Cup Team of the Year.

In his own words
What type of player are you?
Elusive and flexible. I can play back, forward and on ball. Team player.

Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
I think I resemble a Stephen Hill and Cyril Rioli type of player who really runs with the ball and takes on opponents with their ability and lightning speed.

What are your strengths as a footballer?
My speed, agility and being team orientated. I win my own ball and am good at stoppages. Awareness to make quick decisions a split second before other players. Good overhead mark.

What parts of your game would you like to improve?
Improving my accuracy on opposite foot and converting more goals.

Which AFL team do you support and how did you come to barrack for them?
Essendon. I came to barrack for them because of the number of skilful indigenous players I model my game on, by taking on opponents and running the lines while applying pressure with my tackling.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far, and why?
My dad and Garry Hocking, who coached me at different stages of my career. They taught me how to improve my skills and tactical awareness.
Doesnt lack any confience judging by his bio. Another player who used Stephen Hillas a player he resembles.

[Sockeye Salmon]

oesnt lack any confience judging by his bio. Another player who used Stephen Hillas a player he resembles.

They all talk like this in their bios. They have been instructed to talk themselves up.

[chef]

They all talk like this in their bios. They have been instructed to talk themselves up.

Yep, it's just like a job interview. You are going to talk yourself up as much as possible.

[Raw Toast]

Yep, it's just like a job interview. You are going to talk yourself up as much as possible.

Also, they have to name a player they play like who we are supposed to know, so they pick very well known players that they share some traits with. We take it with a grain of salt, but it allows us to dream as well.

[bulldogsman]

Video of Luke

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KcjTLC3kpGM

[DOG GOD]

Certainly looks pacey enough :)

[Ovatheboarder]

They all talk like this in their bios. They have been instructed to talk themselves up.

This is true, the only problem arises when if they get to the clubs and get a little bit ahead of themselves.... Footy clubs are good for"Levelling out" that confidence.

[Mofra]

From another unnamed website (Lions supporter completed the write-up):


31. Western Bulldogs - Luke Dahlaus
DOB: 21/08/92, Height: 177cm, Weight: 72kg
Club: Geelong Falcons (VIC)

Bio: Luke is a small forward who just makes things happen through his workrate. He is extremely quick, usually a good user of the ball but needs to work on his efficiency when under pressure, very team orientated, good awareness, amazing ability and for his size he is very strong, can win his own ball and stoppages and can take a great overhead mark. He’s very flexible as he can play that small forward role, spend some time in the midfield or run off half back and have an impact. He performed very well in the draft combine and smashed the previous ability rest record with a time of 7.47. Dahlhaus’ performances in the TAC Cup speak for themselves. He averaged 21 possessions, six tackles and more than a goal a game when he played and when he got a chance in the midfield he made the most of it with a 35 possession game against the Bushrangers and followed it up with 29 touches against Calder. He finished third in the Morrish Medal and was named in the TAC Cup team of the year.

[Cyberdoggie]

Good pick I think, I like players that get plenty of the ball, shows they know where to be and what they have to do to get it.

Disposal doesn't look too flash but he looks a goer.

[bulldogsman]

In a few years time I can see him in a Harbrow role for some reason. There are a few similarities.

[Sedat]

From another unnamed website (Lions supporter completed the write-up):
Averages 6 tackles a game!! I like the kid already.

[LostDoggy]

Doghaus

[Mofra]

Averages 6 tackles a game!! I like the kid already.
It is a good sign - no Bulldog managed that feat at AFL level in 2010 (Cross averaged 5.44)

[Maddog37]

Looks ok but kicking will need work. Better than needing to work on kicking than how to get the pill though I suppose.

[Ghost Dog]

I'm in China and youtube is blocked. Is he indigenous?

[w3design]

The Dahlhai Lama?

[chef]

Isn't a Dahlhaus like a curry house?

[Cyberdoggie]

I'm in China and youtube is blocked. Is he indigenous?

No, but he's got a long dread locks and he's fairly small if that helps describe him.

Our other pick Johannissen is an indigenous lad i believe.

[jazzadogs]

Millhouse
Everything's coming up Dahlhaus.

[Go_Dogs]

I quite like this selection - great running ability and can break the lines with pace. Kicking action perhaps a little suspect, but a great rookie selection for mine.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

I quite like this selection - great running ability and can break the lines with pace. Kicking action perhaps a little suspect, but a great rookie selection for mine.

Agree with this.

The kid can obviously play and was one of the better performers in the TAC competition. Whilst he may not develop into a midfielder, I see real potential as a quick, defensive minded forward pocket.

Has that real 'full steam ahead' attitude. I could see him going past Hooper, given he's much quicker, agile and will be able to get to more contests/lay tackles because of it.

[Bulldog Revolution]

...I see real potential as a quick, defensive minded forward pocket.



And what do you make of the hair TBB? pro or against?

[LostDoggy]

I could see him going past Hooper, given he's much quicker, agile and will be able to get to more contests/lay tackles because of it.

This. Won't be able to play both of them in the same team.

[Sockeye Salmon]

This. Won't be able to play both of them in the same team.

Djerkurra, Schofield, Dahlhaus, Johanissen and even Vespremi are all so similar.

Does anyone else get the feeling we've picked up all 5 in the hope that one of them (any one, we don't care who) makes it?

[Mofra]

Djerkurra, Schofield, Dahlhaus, Johanissen and even Vespremi are all so similar.

Does anyone else get the feeling we've picked up all 5 in the hope that one of them (any one, we don't care who) makes it?
The last 3 all seem like small forward material, and we could only play 1-2 in the side (Hooper would be grouped with these guys too).

Schofield sounds like more of a Picken type - defensive minded player with pace who can play elsewhere.

Djerkurra I'm worried about - he seems like Cam Faulkner with pace, does the hard things but may not be able to find the easy ball.

[LostDoggy]

Djerkurra, Schofield, Dahlhaus, Johanissen and even Vespremi are all so similar.

Does anyone else get the feeling we've picked up all 5 in the hope that one of them (any one, we don't care who) makes it?

Isn't that the point of a rookie draft (to an extent?), who has been compared to a lottery? -- you strengthen the odds the more tickets you buy...

We must have identified 'crumbing small forward with pace and likes to tackle' as a massive hole in our list, which is no surprise considering how old, slow and non-defensive our forwardline has been in the recent past (so much so that a little chunky first-gamer was played in the final JUST to bring some defensive pace to the side).

Question is, have we over-reacted and drafted TOO many of the same type now at the expense of other glaring holes on our list?

[Mantis]

Question is, have we over-reacted and drafted TOO many of the same type now at the expense of other glaring holes on our list?

I guess we may have taken this path because the other glaring holes in our list (thinking key defenders) couldn't be addressed in this draft period due to lack of available talent.

One would hope, and assuming that Mulligan & Markovic don't kick on that it's an area that's addressed next year in both the trade & draft periods.

[bulldogsman]

Vezspremi played mostly on the HBF in his junior days and Dalrymple has mentioned he can play on the wing as well. He's not really limited to just the forward line.

[Mofra]

Vezspremi played mostly on the HBF in his junior days and Dalrymple has mentioned he can play on the wing as well. He's not really limited to just the forward line.
Does he have the tank to play the role at AFL level though? If he hasn't in the past, the interchange rule will make things more difficult.

[bulldogsman]

Does he have the tank to play the role at AFL level though? If he hasn't in the past, the interchange rule will make things more difficult.

Well probably not this year, more so when he has a couple pre seasons under his belt.

[LostDoggy]

I guess we may have taken this path because the other glaring holes in our list (thinking key defenders) couldn't be addressed in this draft period due to lack of available talent.

One would hope, and assuming that Mulligan & Markovic don't kick on that it's an area that's addressed next year in both the trade & draft periods.

2011 draft period is going to be a carbon copy of this season with GWS taking the place of GC.

If we finish anywhere near where we've finished in the last few seasons will there be any KP defenders to mould left? If Markovic and Mulligan don't make it, as it's assumed they wont, then we're another draft down, another year added to the incumbents and another two/three seasons off having a KP defender come through.

The development may have to be organic through a Liam Jones or such (with no idea how Hill will go that we just drafted at this stage).

Essentially we have only Lake and Williams established in that role, both of whom are a little prone to injury (Lake in recent times showing signs of wear & tear complaints) Morris always playing taller.

Seems to me the cupboard may be a bit bare over the next two/three seasons down KP backman town.

As mentioned above, a small fwd or two with defensive skills and pace was an issue but have we used almost all our tickets up betting on the same size of player?

[Cyberdoggie]

2011 draft period is going to be a carbon copy of this season with GWS taking the place of GC.



Your forgetting that we will probably lose our best uncontracted player to GWSG and get a nice first round pick. ;)

[The Bulldogs Bite]

And what do you make of the hair TBB? pro or against?

I'm pro - I used to sport similar dreadlocks, so perhaps I'm biased. ;)

[Maddog37]

Hooper could also be a very interesting prospect in the back pocket IMO.

[comrade]

Hooper could also be a very interesting prospect in the back pocket IMO.

Interesting as in every opponent would drag him to the goal square and kick many, many goals against him?

:)

[LostDoggy]

Interesting as in every opponent would drag him to the goal square and kick many, many goals against him?

:)

Like they did with Harbrow?

[lemmon]

Looks a handy prospect, a bit Chance Batemany with the dreddys and run and carry. A bit disappointed we didnt go after another key back, we seem to have put a lot of eggs into trying to replace Harbrow and add a crumbing forward but have neglected a massive hole on the list. If Lake goes down who do we play? Williams and Barlow or Markovic, far from convincing.

[comrade]

Like they did with Harbrow?

Harbrow got towelled up a few times when he was dragged back, particularly by Betts, Davis and that Geelong guy who got caught with drugs (gone blank) but at least had the agility and running ability to hurt his opponent on the rebound. I don't think Hooper has these qualities. A chunky midget who can't dodge and weave and damage the opposition going the other way is a recipe for disaster in defence.

He's a forward pocket specialist, IMO.

[LostDoggy]

Harbrow got towelled up a few times when he was dragged back, particularly by Betts, Davis and that Geelong guy who got caught with drugs (gone blank) but at least had the agility and running ability to hurt his opponent on the rebound. I don't think Hooper has these qualities. A chunky midget who can't dodge and weave and damage the opposition going the other way is a recipe for disaster in defence.

He's a forward pocket specialist, IMO.

I agree and don't see him playing back but was just making the point that just cause players are short they can still be very good players in the backline

[Sockeye Salmon]

I agree and don't see him playing back but was just making the point that just cause players are short they can still be very good players in the backline

Within reason.

Hooper is 2 1/2 inches shorter than Harbrow (who was a dwarf). I have zero faith in Hooper as an AFL footballer.

[LostDoggy]

Within reason.

Hooper is 2 1/2 inches shorter than Harbrow (who was a dwarf). I have zero faith in Hooper as an AFL footballer.

Well for the Bulldogs sake i hope he proves you wrong :)

[Mantis]

Looks a handy prospect, a bit Chance Batemany with the dreddys and run and carry. A bit disappointed we didnt go after another key back, we seem to have put a lot of eggs into trying to replace Harbrow and add a crumbing forward but have neglected a massive hole on the list. If Lake goes down who do we play? Williams and Barlow or Markovic, far from convincing.

So if we had picked up a key backman at pick 22 or 39 in the RD you would have been comfortable that we had suitable back-up for the leagues best key defender... You're easily pleased.

[Twodogs]

that Geelong guy who got caught with drugs (gone blank)


Matthew Stokes.

[Mofra]

So if we had picked up a key backman at pick 22 or 39 in the RD you would have been comfortable that we had suitable back-up for the leagues best key defender...
Dalrymple said we had two in mind but they didn't pass the medicals, so it doesn't sound like the club is ignoring the area, rather they are just refusing to waste a pick on a kid who is unlikely to hold up to the rigours of AFL football.

I'm sure Darymple has an eye on the next two or there drafts and has worked out where the strengths lie - we went tall in 2009 knowing the draftable talls were pretty weak in 2010 (and we'd have two mids with our first two picks). Perhaps there are a few in 2011 we are monitoring already.

[Bulldog4life]

Within reason.

Hooper is 2 1/2 inches shorter than Harbrow (who was a dwarf). I have zero faith in Hooper as an AFL footballer.

That's what a lot said about Libba snr early in his career.

[Maddog37]

I do not have any particular vested interest in Hooper. All I know is I saw him play in Ballarat the day that Johno played for Willy and he was the clear stand out player IMO. He just made things happen that day. I also rmember reading his history and got this snippet from a google search. AFL is a long way from junior footy but thought it was relevant.

Andrew Hooper – 2009 AFL Draft Prospect
Andrew Hooper

Age: 18

Statistic averages in the Under 18 Championships:

Team
VIC C

Matches
5

Kicks
15.2

Kicking Efficiency %
64.5

Handballs
5

Disposals
20.2

Disposal Efficiency %
68.3

Marks
5.6

Contested Possessions
9

Uncontested Possessions
11

Clearances
1.8

Tackles
1.8

Goals
1

Behinds
0.8


Position: Small Defender/Inside Midfielder

Andrew Hooper is a small defender who can play in the midfield, which was evidenced by Vic Country’s win over Tasmania where he moved to the midfield to great effect. Hooper was the joint winner of the best and fairest at the AFL Championships (Larke Medal) this year. A particular strength of Hooper’s is the run he provides from defence. He is an All-Australian for the 2009 NAB AFL Under-18s named in the back pocket. Hooper is slight but despite his small172 cm he can take some high flying grabs, which is important when you are as short as he is. He is also good at winning the ball, especially in the midfield.

Hooper seems very determined to play AFL “My football has been a huge focus for me this year because it is so important and I’ve been happy with my consistency.”

Hooper, who plays for North Ballarat, is not the most beautiful person on the planet and doesn’t have the best kick. At junior level he won six back-to-back best and fairests and three consecutive league best and fairests. Hooper was also named All-Australian and awarded the J. L. Williams Medal for best player in the carnival at under-15 level.

Somewhat unrelated to football, Facebook says his IQ is 102, pretty average eh? He idolises Chris Judd and thinks of himself as more of an inside midfielder, where he played as a junior, than as a backman.

[lemmon]

So if we had picked up a key backman at pick 22 or 39 in the RD you would have been comfortable that we had suitable back-up for the leagues best key defender... You're easily pleased.

I find it ridiculous that we could drop Boumann off the list yet retain Mulligan who has looked like nothing but a park footballer at best. I wouldve preferred we at least grabbed a Beau Wilkes, Mitch Thorpe or chased a Brad Miller type who could come in and play at CHB for a few weeks if required, if that isnt a better option then watching Barlow be out muscled by Travis Cloke or Markovic plodding around the defensive fifty if Lake goes down then I dont know..

[lemmon]

Within reason.

Hooper is 2 1/2 inches shorter than Harbrow (who was a dwarf). I have zero faith in Hooper as an AFL footballer.

Hes going to need to add a few more strings to his bow and be able to take his turn in the centre square, but going on what we've seen he's a natural footballer who gets the best out of himself.

[stefoid]

GWS draft will be unlike this one for us because we wont have 2 F/S in our pocket.

Out 1st pick, probably in the mid 20s, could very well be a key back.

[ledge]

MMM Hooper, small with great hands, reminds me of Johnno.
I remember Johnno as a kid, tiny he was, Hooper has the advantage of build allready.
I am very impressed with his go get attitude and think he will be around quite a while.

[OLD SCRAGGer]

GWS draft will be unlike this one for us because we wont have 2 F/S in our pocket.Out 1st pick, probably in the mid 20s, could very well be a key back.

I'n assuming we will pick up Mark Hunters boy (Lauchlan) & possibly Simon Beasley's boy young Will in next years F/S draft :)

[The Coon Dog]

I'n assuming we will pick up Mark Hunters boy (Lauchlan) & possibly Simon Beasley's boy young Will in next years F/S draft :)

2012, we have to wait.

[LostDoggy]

2012, we have to wait.

For both?

I thought Hunter was next year

[The Coon Dog]

For both?

I thought Hunter was next year

No, 2012, at least that's what his Dad told me. Mentioned his DOB meant he had to wait a year later. Probably a December baby.

[chef]

No, 2012, at least that's what his Dad told me. Mentioned his DOB meant he had to wait a year later. Probably a December baby.

His DOB is 13/12/94

[divvydan]

Only just sneaks into the 2012 draft then.

[Twodogs]

I have zero faith in Hooper as an AFL footballer.



I'm willing to give him a chance. I have more faith in him playing good footy than a few other blokes on our list.

[EasternWest]

I'm willing to give him a chance. I have more faith in him playing good footy than a few other blokes on our list.

Such as?

[strebla]

Young Hunter still has 2 years of u/18s a few of you might be confused as he played 2 or 3 games for the Western Jets this year (and kicked the winning goal in one) as an u/16 player as TCD said we have to wait!!!

[Twodogs]

Such as?


Mitch Hahn* for a start.







*I really, really hope he proves me wrong.

[Go_Dogs]

Not sure why all the negativity surrounding Hooper? No doubt he has a lot of work to become a part of the 22, but he must have been doing some things right to get to where he is now.

Will be interesting to see how he develops over the course of the season.

[soupman]

Not sure why all the negativity surrounding Hooper? No doubt he has a lot of work to become a part of the 22, but he must have been doing some things right to get to where he is now.

Will be interesting to see how he develops over the course of the season.

Sometimes realism comes across as negativity.

[Twodogs]

Sometimes realism comes across as negativity.


What realism? The kid is a highly decorated junior footballer who has worked his ring off to get a rookie spot, get onto the main list, earn a game in the team and then get a spot on the senior list.

It's not like we have definitive proof that he cant play the game or he has chance after chance and failed.

[OLD SCRAGGer]

what realism? The kid is a highly decorated junior footballer who has worked his ring off to get a rookie spot, get onto the main list, earn a game in the team and then get a spot on the senior list.

It's not like we have definitive proof that he cant play the game or he has chance after chance and failed.

agree!!!!

[LostDoggy]

Sometimes realism comes across as negativity.
Sometimes negativity comes across as negative.

[hujsh]

Sometimes negativity comes across as negative.

Not positive doesn't equal negative. Maybe he'll make it but he's also got a lot going against him at this stage, hence why he was rookied and not drafted.

[Dazza]

Such as?


Mulligan and Markovic.

[stefoid]

Anyhoo, having a look at the NZ snaps from the dogs website and I cant see anyone with dreads, but there is a skinny, red-faced looking kid I dont recognize with a freshly shaven head.

Is that dollhouse?

photos part III, picks 11, 14 and 36 - libba or dollhouse or ???

[Mantis]

Anyhoo, having a look at the NZ snaps from the dogs website and I cant see anyone with dreads, but there is a skinny, red-faced looking kid I dont recognize with a freshly shaven head.

Is that dollhouse?

The NZ Camp was held from Dec 4-11 and seeing as though the RD wasn't until Dec 7 the kids we picked up in the RD weren't in NZ.

The kid with the crew cut is Libba.

[soupman]

What realism? The kid is a highly decorated junior footballer who has worked his ring off to get a rookie spot, get onto the main list, earn a game in the team and then get a spot on the senior list.

It's not like we have definitive proof that he cant play the game or he has chance after chance and failed.


Sometimes negativity comes across as negative.

The majority of the things said in this thread regarding Hooper address realistic problems he has. Hooper is tiny, doesn't appear to have the evasive ability of a Harbrow to compensate, is likely to be exposed if played down back due to lack of size and at the moment looks to be limited to one position, for which he hasn't shown major indications of being able to excel at at a higher level.

Whilst these things aren't positive, they are all true. The only negative post is where someone says they have zero faith in him making it as an AFL player.

Hooper has had to work his arse off to make it this far, which he deserves a lot of credit for. Whether it was the right decision to give him 2 years, and whether he will actually come on as we all hope is yet to be seen, however we should be free to point out his deficiencies, as these are the areas that may hold him back. If that's negativity then the only thing we a re permitted to do on here is talk about how promising the youngsters all are, start up societies worshipping beards and perform virtual high 5's every time something good happens.

[Cyberdoggie]

Anyhoo, having a look at the NZ snaps from the dogs website and I cant see anyone with dreads, but there is a skinny, red-faced looking kid I dont recognize with a freshly shaven head.

Is that dollhouse?

photos part III, picks 11, 14 and 36 - libba or dollhouse or ???

Yeah it's libba.

Also on those new pics (part 3)
Interesting to see who's keeping up with who in the lap work stuff.

Great to see Howard, Wallis, Wood and even Panos (much maligned for his large rear end) up there with Boyd and co.

On the other end of the pack (the big men), Grant, Roughead and Jones back with Minson.

Of course we know nothing about this particular activity and it is pure speculative but you would assume that whoever is keeping up with Boyd, Gia, is doing well, and if you struggling to beat Minson then you probably not doing so well.

[Desipura]

The majority of the things said in this thread regarding Hooper address realistic problems he has. Hooper is tiny, doesn't appear to have the evasive ability of a Harbrow to compensate, is likely to be exposed if played down back due to lack of size and at the moment looks to be limited to one position, for which he hasn't shown major indications of being able to excel at at a higher level.

Whilst these things aren't positive, they are all true. The only negative post is where someone says they have zero faith in him making it as an AFL player.

Hooper has had to work his arse off to make it this far, which he deserves a lot of credit for. Whether it was the right decision to give him 2 years, and whether he will actually come on as we all hope is yet to be seen, however we should be free to point out his deficiencies, as these are the areas that may hold him back. If that's negativity then the only thing we a re permitted to do on here is talk about how promising the youngsters all are, start up societies worshipping beards and perform virtual high 5's every time something good happens.

Very well said. People often mistaken non positive comments with being negative.

[Mantis]

Interesting to see who's keeping up with who in the lap work stuff.

Great to see Howard, Wallis, Wood and even Panos (much maligned for his large rear end) up there with Boyd and co.

On the other end of the pack (the big men), Grant, Roughead and Jones back with Minson.

Of course we know nothing about this particular activity and it is pure speculative but you would assume that whoever is keeping up with Boyd, Gia, is doing well, and if you struggling to beat Minson then you probably not doing so well.

The running is normally done in 2 or 3 seperate groups and from what I have seen it isn't a race more an even tempo run.

And if you are worried about a few of our big guys struggling to beat Will, what do you say about a couple of our mid-sized recruits who are in the same running group?... Assuming that every one is of course at full fitness.

[Ghost Dog]

The majority of the things said in this thread regarding Hooper address realistic problems he has.

Whilst these things aren't positive, they are all true.

.

I learned a new expression in Thai the other day. True but not right, right but not true.




Hooper is tiny, doesn't appear to have the evasive ability of a Harbrow to compensate, is likely to be exposed if played down back due to lack of size .


Firstly, you wouldn't play him down back. Diesel Williams, Libba, Medhurst.
You wouldn't have played any of these players down back either.

There are advantages to being a Harbrow re-bounder. But he was pretty easily pushed off a tackle as well.



the moment looks to be limited to one position, for which he hasn't shown major indications of being able to excel at at a higher level. .

Um. Maybe. How would he not be in the team if he had not shown indications of having potential to excel in AFL?
The way AFL clubs analyze players these days , hard to see how he doesn't have a fair chance of being able to make a contribution.

Anyway, Luke Dahlhaus is feeling neglected.

[soupman]

My point was that these "negative" comments about Hooper are all justified and reasonable. I actually think he does have a decent chance of making it, but I dont have high expectations.

Dalhous certainly seems to have some of the attributes we would like, hopefully he comes on.

[Twodogs]

I just want to point out that I agree with those who say Hooper has no chance of playing well in defence. My comments are based on him playing as a forward.



Anyway back to Mr Dahlhaus.

[Mofra]

Does anyone know when the rookies will join training at WO?
Luke would have to be close to training already being a Vic kid.

[GetDimmaBack]

I recall a good player at Geelong West in the 80s called Mark Dahlhaus.

I'm thinking that Mark may be Luke's father.

Anyone have any info on this?

[Twodogs]

I recall a good player at Geelong West in the 80s called Mark Dahlhaus.

I'm thinking that Mark may be Luke's father.

Anyone have any info on this?


Only that Luke was recruited from Geelong Falcons and it's not a comon surname. There is a fair chance they are related I reckon.


In telstra white pages there is a M and L Dahlhaus listed in Leoplold. Could they be them?

[Mantis]

I recall a good player at Geelong West in the 80s called Mark Dahlhaus.

I'm thinking that Mark may be Luke's father.

Anyone have any info on this?

Desipura poseted the following in the Rookie selection thread:

'From inside footy:
Luke's dad won 2 Mathieson Medals (Geelong footy league B & F's) He recorded the best mobility test in Australia at 7.74 and he's got great speed to match. "He's one of those small forwards/onabller types who would fit the bill of a club looking for a quick forward."
Falcons Mgr Michael Turner

[GetDimmaBack]

Only that Luke was recruited from Geelong Falcons and it's not a comon surname. There is a fair chance they are related I reckon.


In telstra white pages there is a M and L Dahlhaus listed in Leoplold. Could they be them?

Certainly an uncommon surname. Probably is Mark's son.

Anyone else remember Mark from the old VFA days?

[Twodogs]

Certainly an uncommon surname. Probably is Mark's son.

Anyone else remember Mark from the old VFA days?


Joe Radojavic(?) is the only Geelong West player I can remember. Star full forward who kicked a couple of tons but played in an era when Fred Cook and Frosty Miller were the dominant full forwards in the comp.

[LostDoggy]

Thanks for the video link. He's got a way to go but loved his goal snaps.

[ledge]

Just thought i would bump this and see what us fans think of him now.
As I have stated in another thread, Jordan McMahon look alike but has footy smarts.
He seems to have quick hands in packs like Tom Liberatore.
He is a very low player, by this I mean his hands and feet seem very close and he gets boot to ball very quickly, also looks for options very well, doesnt seem to kick the ball but put it on his foot which is great for precision kicking.
Due to this he will never be a long kick but always accurate.
Summed up this kid has the attributes, talent and enthusiasm to become a great footballer.
Over the years I have watched players play their first game and you just know they are the bees knees.
A fan favourite for many years I would think.

[Ghost Dog]

Just thought i would bump this and see what us fans think of him now.
As I have stated in another thread, Jordan McMahon look alike but has footy smarts.
He seems to have quick hands in packs like Tom Liberatore.
He is a very low player, by this I mean his hands and feet seem very close and he gets boot to ball very quickly, also looks for options very well, doesnt seem to kick the ball but put it on his foot which is great for precision kicking.
Due to this he will never be a long kick but always accurate.
Summed up this kid has the attributes, talent and enthusiasm to become a great footballer.
Over the years I have watched players play their first game and you just know they are the bees knees.
A fan favourite for many years I would think.

Only slight knock at the moment on his game, Needs to work on his tackle a bit. Tends to end up around people's hips rather than trap an arm. Minor point.
A little pocket warrior who loves a goal celebration. And we need that pep. Going to chase down quite a few opponents as being smaller, he tends to get in the blind spot well and is deceptively fast. Great selection. Thanks Geelong Falcons

[LostDoggy]

Forget second efforts with this kid. I'm loving his fourth and fifth efforts. His energy is really great for the team at the moment too. Can't really throw any down sides out on a kid who has played only three games, that he won't learn from experience.

[LostDoggy]

What i love (which has been there since his first game) is how he is always switched on for every bit of the 120 minutes, standing the mark jumping around like crazy is a great sign.

[Ghost Dog]

What i love (which has been there since his first game) is how he is always switched on for every bit of the 120 minutes, standing the mark jumping around like crazy is a great sign.

Well said

[cinder]

I love him, he's a real excitement machine. He just has that spark that makes you wonder what he is going to do next. Really enjoyed seeing him at the game on Friday night

[w3design]

Looking at the stats in the paper, Dahl led all comers for 'pressure acts' on Friday. Good stat to keep.

[Go_Dogs]

Looking at the stats in the paper, Dahl led all comers for 'pressure acts' on Friday. Good stat to keep.

The other aspect I've noted, which I don't believe is really reflected in the pressure act stats but happy to be wrong, that he often has to pressure large numbers (3-5) of opposition players on his own and has done this well, caused panic and slowed/prevented the opposition releasing.

[LostDoggy]

He has been a great source of excitement, a glint of dawn in a generally dark season.

[LostDoggy]

The other aspect I've noted, which I don't believe is really reflected in the pressure act stats but happy to be wrong, that he often has to pressure large numbers (3-5) of opposition players on his own and has done this well, caused panic and slowed/prevented the opposition releasing.

That's the shame of it all. After the weekend is over people gather around at work and say things like "Judd had 35 touches on the weekend", or "Buddy kicked 8". Not many would be saying...
"Dahlhaus tackled one guy, got dragged down, got to his feet, chased the next guy and altered his hand pass, jagged the ball free off the next opposition, then got a hand on the last player which altered his kick into a clanger to Murphy".
Probably lucky to get one stat out of that whole play.

[Rocco Jones]

That's the shame of it all. After the weekend is over people gather around at work and say things like "Judd had 35 touches on the weekend", or "Buddy kicked 8". Not many would be saying...
"Dahlhaus tackled one guy, got dragged down, got to his feet, chased the next guy and altered his hand pass, jagged the ball free off the next opposition, then got a hand on the last player which altered his kick into a clanger to Murphy".
Probably lucky to get one stat out of that whole play.

Judging by the reaction of our crowd whenever he is near the ball I think the vast majority of our fans well and truly apprecaite his work.

[LostDoggy]

Great pick by our recruiters

[LostDoggy]

Judging by the reaction of our crowd whenever he is near the ball I think the vast majority of our fans well and truly apprecaite his work.

Don't doubt that for a minute.
Speaking to my Dad, who is probably one of the biggest 'negative' bulldog fans, all he could go on about on Saturday was LDs work rate and effort.
My comment was more directed to the general football fan that looks to stats to tell the game story.

[GVGjr]

Great pick by our recruiters

Welcome to the site.

Dahlhaus has proven to be a great selection by the recruiting team.
Lets hope they keep up the success rate

[LostDoggy]

Yes its good to see him on the park , he has the two thumbs up from Leigh Matthews for his zone pressure and decision making under pressure

Go the Grominator

.

[GetDimmaBack]

That's the shame of it all. After the weekend is over people gather around at work and say things like "Judd had 35 touches on the weekend", or "Buddy kicked 8". Not many would be saying...
"Dahlhaus tackled one guy, got dragged down, got to his feet, chased the next guy and altered his hand pass, jagged the ball free off the next opposition, then got a hand on the last player which altered his kick into a clanger to Murphy".Probably lucky to get one stat out of that whole play.

Without being too hasty, there's a little bit of Scotty West in that quote!

Love the emergence of another cult figure.

[LostDoggy]

Don't doubt that for a minute.
Speaking to my Dad, who is probably one of the biggest 'negative' bulldog fans, all he could go on about on Saturday was LDs work rate and effort.
My comment was more directed to the general football fan that looks to stats to tell the game story.

Look on the bright side: They've missed the entire game really, haven't really seen it. Feel good that you did.

[Scraggers]

Yes its good to see him on the park , he has the two thumbs up from Leigh Matthews for his zone pressure and decision making under pressure

Go the Grominator

.

I"m not afraid to admit it ... I have a huge Man-Crush on Dollhouse !!

[bornadog]

I"m not afraid to admit it ... I have a huge Man-Crush on Dollhouse !!

Becoming a crowd favourite as well. Last week in the last quarter he grabbed the ball in the backline and the crowd started cheering.

[Cyberdoggie]

I find it amazing that if your a quick small forward, you can easily be knocked back by recruiters if if have 1 weakness.

Good examples are Harbrow, Dahlhaus, Nahas, Davey etc.

There seems to be an opinion that because a small player has a particular weakness that they won't make the afl standard, but they are far more forgiving for a developing tall.

Both Harbrow and Dahlhaus showed they were quality footballers at u/18 level, both getting plenty of the ball and showing speed and skill. Perhaps the knock on them was that they were too small or had less than perfect kicking skills.

So they end up rookie selections. Nahas got rejected because he was also very small, but he showed all the right qualities elsewhere in his game. He played at Port Melbourne for a few years before Richmond were willing to take a chance on him.

Sometimes i think recruiters just see some bullet point notes on a paper and make a judgement call.

[Cyberdoggie]

What i love (which has been there since his first game) is how he is always switched on for every bit of the 120 minutes, standing the mark jumping around like crazy is a great sign.

If only Josh Hill and Brennan Stack had half his aggression at the contest.

I could also throw in Jarrad Grant in that category at times.

[1eyedog]

5th in the AFL for score assists and 9th for contested possessions. The only player in the AFL in the top 10 for both.

Having a great start to the year. What a champ.

[Twodogs]

5th in the AFL for score assists and 9th for contested possessions. The only player in the AFL in the top 10 for both.

Having a great start to the year. What a champ.

That's a pretty impressive rating for CP given the drop off in our overall rating in that indicator.

[Rocco Jones]

5th in the AFL for score assists and 9th for contested possessions. The only player in the AFL in the top 10 for both.

Having a great start to the year. What a champ.

I think someone follows my page.

[1eyedog]

I think someone follows my page.

Just found it. This info needs to flow. Amazing stats for Dahl.

[Eastdog]

Dahl is a Bulldog warrior. Just such a hard working player. Got a photo with him a few years ago when he still had the dreads.

[bornadog]

Luke Dahlhaus awarded "Team of the Week" honours (http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/2017-04-19/dahlhaus-awarded-team-of-the-week-honours)

[Twodogs]

Might just about end up being the best rookie listed player ever.

[strebla]

Might just about end up being the best rookie listed player ever.
That's with Boyd and Picken at our club big call but I can't argue.

[Twodogs]

That's with Boyd and Picken at our club big call but I can't argue.

And Dale Morris and JJ. We've done bloody well out of the rookie list

[Mofra]

And Dale Morris and JJ. We've done bloody well out of the rookie list
Suckling, Biggs and Crameri as trade ins were former rookies too.
Roberts was a PSD pick (virtually a rookie) and Hamling a DFA so it looks like we can spot a bargain.

[Twodogs]

Suckling, Biggs and Crameri as trade ins were former rookies too.
Roberts was a PSD pick (virtually a rookie) and Hamling a DFA so it looks like we can spot a bargain.

That's half a team taken post the National Draft. It's where the depth on our list comes from.

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-BfN7TUIAAv7qz.jpg:large

[Twodogs]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-BfN7TUIAAv7qz.jpg:large


I love the look on his face. Have a go if you think you're hard enough, but I'm gonna win.

[bulldogtragic]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-BfN7TUIAAv7qz.jpg:large

Must be leading the B&F, sneaky on Brownlow voting too I'd guess. Everything's coming up Dahlhaus.

[bornadog]

AFL trade news: Geelong considers bold play for Western Bulldogs’ Luke Dahlhaus at end of 2018 (https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/exclusive-geelong-considering-a-bold-play-for-western-bulldogs-playmaker-luke-dahlhaus-at-seasons-end/news-story/ddf3f60c431287853582240687b5f215)


GEELONG is considering making a bold play for Western Bulldogs playmaker Luke Dahlhaus at season’s end.

The Dogs remain confident the unrestricted free agent will ink a new deal after eight years of service, but the lurking Cats are the frontrunners if Dahlhaus decides to pursue other options.

The Cats, who had Dahlhaus to pre-season training 10 years ago before he was drafted, have been keeping a close eye on the 25 year-old, who is one of five free agents at the Dogs this year.


Foxfooty.com.au understands the Western Bulldogs’ preference is to sign the 2016 premiership player to a short-term contract, although a substantial rival offer could alter the goalposts at Whitten Oval and force their hand.

Dahlhaus is in the last year of a significantly front-ended deal he signed in early 2015. It’s believed he sits outside the top 25 per cent of earners at the club, meaning he can walk to a club of his choice at the end of 2018, even if the Dogs match the offer.

Dahlhaus, Patrick Dangerfield’s second cousin, has strong links to the Geelong region, having played TAC Cup at Mick Turner’s football factory and at Leopold in the Geelong Football League as a teenager.

He played all 22 games last year but finished outside the top 10 of the Western Bulldogs best and fairest for the first time since 2011.
He is yet to set the world alight this season statistically, averaging 22.8 touches and 2.4 inside 50s per game. His score involvements are at the lowest level since his debut season in 2011, as are his score assists.

But industry sources still believe Dahlhaus is worth paying good dollars for — potentially upwards of $600,000 per season — and remains a player who can find the ball, use it well, and applies good pressure.

The ball-winner said he was keen to remain a Dog recently.
“My manager (Peter Lenton) and the club are still in talks, and it’s going to take a little time to get things done,” Dahlhaus said in April.

“But in saying that, the club is like my family now. I’ve been here eight years and I love it so much, so this is where I want to finish and play for the rest of my days.”

As reported by Foxfooty.com.au earlier this season, the Bulldogs floated Dahlhaus in a trade to several clubs last October (https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/western-bulldogs-free-agent-luke-dahlhaus-a-high-priority-for-several-rival-clubs/news-story/cc2077bffa951a63dc35c2e287b42882).
Perhaps Dahlhaus’ best attribute is his durability, having missed just six games since 2012.

Tom Liberatore and Dale Morris are also unrestricted free agents, while Mitch Wallis and Jordan Roughead are on the restricted list.
The Bulldogs take on Collingwood this Friday night.

[Sedat]

If Geelong want to pay Dahl $600k plus a season for a multi-year deal, I thank him for his service, wish him all the best and look forward to seeing him come back in 2026 for the premiership reunion.

[Rocket Science]

AFL trade news: Geelong considers bold play for Western Bulldogs’ Luke Dahlhaus at end of 2018 (https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/exclusive-geelong-considering-a-bold-play-for-western-bulldogs-playmaker-luke-dahlhaus-at-seasons-end/news-story/ddf3f60c431287853582240687b5f215)


GEELONG is considering making a bold play for Western Bulldogs playmaker Luke Dahlhaus at season’s end.

The Dogs remain confident the unrestricted free agent will ink a new deal after eight years of service, but the lurking Cats are the frontrunners if Dahlhaus decides to pursue other options.

The Cats, who had Dahlhaus to pre-season training 10 years ago before he was drafted, have been keeping a close eye on the 25 year-old, who is one of five free agents at the Dogs this year.


Foxfooty.com.au understands the Western Bulldogs’ preference is to sign the 2016 premiership player to a short-term contract, although a substantial rival offer could alter the goalposts at Whitten Oval and force their hand.

Dahlhaus is in the last year of a significantly front-ended deal he signed in early 2015. It’s believed he sits outside the top 25 per cent of earners at the club, meaning he can walk to a club of his choice at the end of 2018, even if the Dogs match the offer.

Dahlhaus, Patrick Dangerfield’s second cousin, has strong links to the Geelong region, having played TAC Cup at Mick Turner’s football factory and at Leopold in the Geelong Football League as a teenager.

He played all 22 games last year but finished outside the top 10 of the Western Bulldogs best and fairest for the first time since 2011.
He is yet to set the world alight this season statistically, averaging 22.8 touches and 2.4 inside 50s per game. His score involvements are at the lowest level since his debut season in 2011, as are his score assists.

But industry sources still believe Dahlhaus is worth paying good dollars for — potentially upwards of $600,000 per season — and remains a player who can find the ball, use it well, and applies good pressure.

The ball-winner said he was keen to remain a Dog recently.
“My manager (Peter Lenton) and the club are still in talks, and it’s going to take a little time to get things done,” Dahlhaus said in April.

“But in saying that, the club is like my family now. I’ve been here eight years and I love it so much, so this is where I want to finish and play for the rest of my days.”

As reported by Foxfooty.com.au earlier this season, the Bulldogs floated Dahlhaus in a trade to several clubs last October (https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/western-bulldogs-free-agent-luke-dahlhaus-a-high-priority-for-several-rival-clubs/news-story/cc2077bffa951a63dc35c2e287b42882).
Perhaps Dahlhaus’ best attribute is his durability, having missed just six games since 2012.

Tom Liberatore and Dale Morris are also unrestricted free agents, while Mitch Wallis and Jordan Roughead are on the restricted list.
The Bulldogs take on Collingwood this Friday night.





I'm sorry, is there another Luke Dahlhaus on our list I'm unaware of?

Love him to bits but he's the poster boy for killing himself to get it then pissing it away in an instant.

If we could exchange him for a reliably better user who'd be in our top 6-8 picked I'd do it.

[comrade]

I love Dahl & he’s been a fabric type personality around the club from all reports but it does seem like he’s not as jacked in to the cause like previous years and it’s coinciding with average on field influence.

He is probably the worst kick of any player getting serious game time in the AFL, and it actually hurts us whenever he has the ball in the 30-60m arc in our forward half because he just can’t use it well enough to take advantage (either through set shot kicking or finding a better target inside 50).

If he got offered better money and we were to receive good compensation, it could be a win-win.

[bulldogtragic]

I floated this over the last month. Even if they offered what Port did for Motlop its pick 19 in a super draft. God help us, they offer $600,000+ on 4 years, the James Frawley precedent is us with at our pick first round compo.

I'm not sure the club wants to sign him at all costs. A short term contract is us saying we want him, but our low years offer allows him to listen to offers. If there's a chase for him that gets us another first rounder by it pick 6 or 19, worst 24 (assuming we finish 14th) in a super draft. I love Dahl, but the last super draft in 1999 was outstanding for us, so more picks is a good result. I don't want to necessarily see him go, but as the posts above, if we get a good compo pick and Dahl gets more money and years then it's win-win.

[MrMahatma]

I hope he stays.

[Mofra]

I hope he stays.
Ditto.

What ever compo we get is no guarantee to be a player (see Webb, the compo we got for Higgins who just won a B&F) and there's a huge chance the compo pick will be used up by Rhylee West anyway so we effectively lose Dahlhaus for whatever deficit we'd take in 2019.

Dahlhaus is worth more to us than a ~10 pick downgrade in the 20s in the 2019 draft. We're not exactly flush with running players and who's next to fill the breach if he goes? You'd have to say Mitch Honeychurch who, for all his dedication, is a class below Dahl.

[bornadog]

Ditto.

What ever compo we get is no guarantee to be a player (see Webb, the compo we got for Higgins who just won a B&F) and there's a huge chance the compo pick will be used up by Rhylee West anyway so we effectively lose Dahlhaus for whatever deficit we'd take in 2019.

Dahlhaus is worth more to us than a ~10 pick downgrade in the 20s in the 2019 draft. We're not exactly flush with running players and who's next to fill the breach if he goes? You'd have to say Mitch Honeychurch who, for all his dedication, is a class below Dahl.

Ditto and Ditto

[GVGjr]

I love Dahl & he’s been a fabric type personality around the club from all reports but it does seem like he’s not as jacked in to the cause like previous years and it’s coinciding with average on field influence.

He is probably the worst kick of any player getting serious game time in the AFL, and it actually hurts us whenever he has the ball in the 30-60m arc in our forward half because he just can’t use it well enough to take advantage (either through set shot kicking or finding a better target inside 50).

If he got offered better money and we were to receive good compensation, it could be a win-win.


I hope he stays.


Ditto.

What ever compo we get is no guarantee to be a player (see Webb, the compo we got for Higgins who just won a B&F) and there's a huge chance the compo pick will be used up by Rhylee West anyway so we effectively lose Dahlhaus for whatever deficit we'd take in 2019.

Dahlhaus is worth more to us than a ~10 pick downgrade in the 20s in the 2019 draft. We're not exactly flush with running players and who's next to fill the breach if he goes? You'd have to say Mitch Honeychurch who, for all his dedication, is a class below Dahl.


Ditto and Ditto

So even if Comrades views are accurate are you all happy for him to stay even if he isn't fully committing?

I'd love him to get back on track but say a 90% commitment level isn't anywhere near enough for me.

[Remi Moses]

Gotta say I reckon he’s cruised since 2016
Not worth 600 a year

[The Pie Man]

So even if Comrades views are accurate are you all happy for him to stay even if he isn't fully committing?

I'd love him to get back on track but say a 90% commitment level isn't anywhere near enough for me.

I think the commitment question was certainly valid last year - not sure bout 2018.

Prefer he stays *if* committed...which from my outside view, he appears to be this year.

[Twodogs]

Ask me again at the end of the season. That's what everyone else seems to be doing.

[Mofra]

So even if Comrades views are accurate are you all happy for him to stay even if he isn't fully committing?

I'd love him to get back on track but say a 90% commitment level isn't anywhere near enough for me.
That's a very tenuous hypothetical.
a. That he isn't committing now, and
b. He won't commit again in the future.

In any case I'd argue that current Dahlhaus is playing better football than current Webb, the last time we used a compo pick.

Has any club used their FA compo pick and found a comparable or better player?
Melbourne's freebie for James Frawley was Brawshaw who has played good football, that's about it.

[bornadog]

That's a very tenuous hypothetical.
a. That he isn't committing now, and
b. He won't commit again in the future.

In any case I'd argue that current Dahlhaus is playing better football than current Webb, the last time we used a compo pick.

Has any club used their FA compo pick and found a comparable or better player?
Melbourne's freebie for James Frawley was Brawshaw who has played good football, that's about it.

I can't understand why people want to get in an unknown draft pick for a known quantity. Unless we get a top 5 draft pick(which we won't) we need to keep our wanted players.

[Twodogs]

I can't understand why people want to get in an unknown draft pick for a known quantity. Unless we get a top 5 draft pick(which we won't) we need to keep our wanted players.


Because it's a super draft silly!;)

[Twodogs]

So even if Comrades views are accurate are you all happy for him to stay even if he isn't fully committing?

I'd love him to get back on track but say a 90% commitment level isn't anywhere near enough for me.

Maybe the game has gone past him? Maybe Dahl is doing everything he once did but the game has moved on. Dahl wouldn't be the first player to cruise through a year thinking that everything will be OK because they could just kick up the effort again next year, but when next year comes around the game has moved on.

[soupman]

I can't understand why people want to get in an unknown draft pick for a known quantity. Unless we get a top 5 draft pick(which we won't) we need to keep our wanted players.

I can understand it. The hope of the unknown is much better than what we are currently getting from Dahl.

Dahls always been a quantity over quality player but this season especially both seem to be down. In a team of frustrating players he is possibly the most frustrating so as loveable as he is I can understand everyone being ok with potentially losing him. Atm his biggest saving grace is how much he is ingrained a spart of the club, but if you can imagine him leaving us by choice then it's pretty easy to throw away all the negatives in the hope of a good draft pick which of late has produced players like English, Naughton, Macrae and Bont.

[Mofra]

I can understand it. The hope of the unknown is much better than what we are currently getting from Dahl.

Dahls always been a quantity over quality player but this season especially both seem to be down. In a team of frustrating players he is possibly the most frustrating so as loveable as he is I can understand everyone being ok with potentially losing him. Atm his biggest saving grace is how much he is ingrained a spart of the club, but if you can imagine him leaving us by choice then it's pretty easy to throw away all the negatives in the hope of a good draft pick which of late has produced players like English, Naughton, Macrae and Bont.
All first round picks, the first three of them top 10. We're getting nowhere near that in Dahlhaus compensation.

[bornadog]

All first round picks, the first three of them top 10. We're getting nowhere near that in Dahlhaus compensation.

and that is my point. We got Pick 27 as compensation for Higgins, and that is about what you would get for Dahl.

[Bulldog Joe]

It is a tricky situation.

For me, I see that Dahlhaus has been fantastic and has also been a big help in club marketing.

However, I don't see any improvement in his game and the deficiencies that hurt around his kicking, may even have become worse with the pace of the game.

We need game changers that can support the work of Bont, Macrae and McLean around the ball and stop giving it back to the opposition.

Dahlhaus is expendable and it would be preferable to see him go, rather than increase salary cap pressure that could cost us one of our potential game changers.

[Go_Dogs]

His role has changed from our premiership year and he needs to continue to spend more time close to goal where his defensive pressure can be an asset, while he's also good at halving a contest in the air. We have enough players who use the ball better around the contest in the middle at the moment.

I'd in the keep Dahl camp for sure, but we can't do it at the expense of our list management strategy.

[GVGjr]

That's a very tenuous hypothetical.
a. That he isn't committing now, and
b. He won't commit again in the future.

In any case I'd argue that current Dahlhaus is playing better football than current Webb, the last time we used a compo pick.

Has any club used their FA compo pick and found a comparable or better player?
Melbourne's freebie for James Frawley was Brawshaw who has played good football, that's about it.

Why have you swung the discussion around the issue of compensation when I responded to the suggestion by Comrade that he doesn't appear to be switched on which I think is very pertinent in the decision on how hard we should go to maintain him?

For every Webb vs Dahlhaus debate there is a Daniel vs Cooney one as well. Overall I'd prefer to stick with the player that wants to work hard rather than having to deal with distracted players.

The question that is being asked though is about if we should commit to a player that might not be 100% switched on? Clearly the club is in the best position to answer that but his form over the last year and a half hasn't been near his standards of 2015/16.

A few years back I regarded him as an A grade player, I don't now.

I've previously said that I want to maintain a 100% committed Dahlhaus but if he has climbed his Everest and doesn't want to go again then he or any other player can draw a pay cheque from any another club.

[GVGjr]

I can't understand why people want to get in an unknown draft pick for a known quantity. Unless we get a top 5 draft pick(which we won't) we need to keep our wanted players.

I'll ask you again, do you want to keep a player that might not be 100% committed?

[azabob]

Maybe the game has gone past him? Maybe Dahl is doing everything he once did but the game has moved on. Dahl wouldn't be the first player to cruise through a year thinking that everything will be OK because they could just kick up the effort again next year, but when next year comes around the game has moved on.

He should be in his element. Clubs are building game plans around small, quick, pressure players.

[bulldogtragic]

He should be in his element. Clubs are building game plans around small, quick, pressure players.

So you're saying his free agency contract/compo value on the open market is at its absolute highest? :D

[azabob]

So you're saying his free agency contract/compo value on the open market is at its absolute highest? :D

I guess I am!

[bulldogtragic]

I guess I am!

I'm trying to get into a legally strategic mind, like Sam Power. If we assessed the Motlop & Frawley compo, that is first round compo or end of first round compo, we'd need to see 4 years at $600,000 to get an in first compo pick.

What we could do is offer the money around $600,000, if we think he's worth it, but not the years. Media reporting says we are not offering the years he wants :

- So he can stay and we are happy with the contract lesser years and $600,000 p.a. We win.
- He leaves because he wants an extra year or two. I doubt he leaves for a pay cut, and he's not worth more. So whomever gets him pays 3-4 years at $600,000 and we get a first rounder compo. We arguably win.

It seems like a betting line/margin. If we fix the salary high enough, and another club has to offer more years to get him, which pushes the compo into the first round somewhere. It seems like a cold strategic way to look at it. In that we are negotiating and we're offering good money, but leaving a gap (on years) for another club to only steal him if we know in advance the compo is worth it to us.

Or not. Or another internet conspiracy theory.

[Mofra]

Why have you swung the discussion around the issue of compensation when I responded to the suggestion by Comrade that he doesn't appear to be switched on which I think is very pertinent in the decision on how hard we should go to maintain him?

For every Webb vs Dahlhaus debate there is a Daniel vs Cooney one as well. Overall I'd prefer to stick with the player that wants to work hard rather than having to deal with distracted players.

The question that is being asked though is about if we should commit to a player that might not be 100% switched on? Clearly the club is in the best position to answer that but his form over the last year and a half hasn't been near his standards of 2015/16.

A few years back I regarded him as an A grade player, I don't now.

I've previously said that I want to maintain a 100% committed Dahlhaus but if he has climbed his Everest and doesn't want to go again then he or any other player can draw a pay cheque from any another club.
Because I care more about what he's doing on the field than some arbitrary, subjective eyeball test from the stands about how committed he is which has very little likelihood of being accurate.

His numbers are down a little this year - and he appears to be carrying niggles - but right now he's best 22 and a mature player in a side struggling with both running types and mature players. From a list management perspective he is absolutely the right age and type that we need to keep.

The compensation issue is absolutely part of the following discussion. Would you delist him? I certainly wouldn't. Therefore, what we get in return does become part of the decision and given the FS situation at the end of the year we would effectively be giving him away for 4/5th of SFA.

[Twodogs]

I'm trying to get into a legally strategic mind, like Sam Power. If we assessed the Motlop & Frawley compo, that is first round compo or end of first round compo, we'd need to see 4 years at $600,000 to get an in first compo pick.

What we could do is offer the money around $600,000, if we think he's worth it, but not the years. Media reporting says we are not offering the years he wants :

- So he can stay and we are happy with the contract lesser years and $600,000 p.a. We win.
- He leaves because he wants an extra year or two. I doubt he leaves for a pay cut, and he's not worth more. So whomever gets him pays 3-4 years at $600,000 and we get a first rounder compo. We arguably win.

It seems like a betting line/margin. If we fix the salary high enough, and another club has to offer more years to get him, which pushes the compo into the first round somewhere. It seems like a cold strategic way to look at it. In that we are negotiating and we're offering good money, but leaving a gap (on years) for another club to only steal him if we know in advance the compo is worth it to us.

Or not. Or another internet conspiracy theory.

So how many years are we offering? Two or three?

[Twodogs]

He should be in his element. Clubs are building game plans around small, quick, pressure players.

I think that's my point. He should be playing like he is in cherry ripe condition playing in a competition that's geared around his strengths. But he's not.

[bornadog]

I'll ask you again, do you want to keep a player that might not be 100% committed?

No

But I don't believe Dahl is not 100% committed.

[GVGjr]

Because I care more about what he's doing on the field than some arbitrary, subjective eyeball test from the stands about how committed he is which has very little likelihood of being accurate.

His numbers are down a little this year - and he appears to be carrying niggles - but right now he's best 22 and a mature player in a side struggling with both running types and mature players. From a list management perspective he is absolutely the right age and type that we need to keep.

The compensation issue is absolutely part of the following discussion. Would you delist him? I certainly wouldn't. Therefore, what we get in return does become part of the decision and given the FS situation at the end of the year we would effectively be giving him away for 4/5th of SFA.

The stats tell part of the story not the full one but if you can't see that he wasn't switched on last year then you're not looking at it objectively. I don't see why we would commit to any player if they aren't buying in.

Dahlhaus was a terrific player for us but he now needs to improve. His form isn't where it needs to be.
Regarding your niggles observation to explain his form is that based on facts, knowledge or is it one of those subjective eyeball tests from the stands? ;)

[Ghost Dog]

It's a mystery. I agree, the modern game is really perfect for Luke's style.
I wonder if, after having won a final, some players begin to question 'what else is there?'.
This is considering the demands that modern footy puts on a person's body. He's certainly not the player he was.
It's not as though he can easily 'refresh' in another position on the ground either - you know, some players get switched and their form starts to return.

Highly speculative question - Can we try him as a small forward in the style of Eddie Betts?

[Twodogs]

It's a mystery. I agree, the modern game is really perfect for Luke's style.
I wonder if, after having won a final, some players begin to question 'what else is there?'.
This is considering the demands that modern footy puts on a person's body. He's certainly not the player he was.
It's not as though he can easily 'refresh' in another position on the ground either - you know, some players get switched and their form starts to return.

Highly speculative question - Can we try him as a small forward in the style of Eddie Betts?


Could you see Luke bending set shots through from 50 metres out on the boundary line?

[Bullies]

the club shopped him around at the end of last season and there were no takers. They are apparently poles apart in money and years which means the club don't rate him as high as some may think. His skills are ordinary. Happy for him to get his $600k elsewhere as personally would think the team would be better without him as the forwards must hate it when they look up and he has the ball.

[ReLoad]

there is a fair bit of negativity of Luke here, particularly as a "forward" however id like to talk up a couple of tricks he does have, he has the quickest hands in the game, by a country mile. They are like lightning, so when he is used effectively (as an inside mid, or first chain) hes a gun.

Whilst he is not quick (able to outrun anyone) his first 3-5 steps are as fast as anyone, his ability to accelerate is elite and probably only second to the bont at our club.

In saying the above, 600k is a lot of money, and I don't think he is worth that, however to "buy" another player form a club always comes at a cost. Ive got no issue if he stays or goes, but we do have a lot of people like him. Id love him if we was a bit faster, some more run and carry from him would be sensational.

[bornadog]

the club shopped him around at the end of last season and there were no takers. They are apparently poles apart in money and years which means the club don't rate him as high as some may think. His skills are ordinary. Happy for him to get his $600k elsewhere as personally would think the team would be better without him as the forwards must hate it when they look up and he has the ball.

Is that you Tom :D

[Axe Man]

I have posted this before and will reiterate - the term of the contract is not all that important for free agency compensation. It essentially comes down to age and dollars. The Motlop case is the closest comparison we have - both 26 when they are available as free agents and Motlop reportedly paid a little over $500k. Motlop only just scrapped into end of first round compensation so this is the best we can expect for Dahl.

It is pointless comparing the Frawley compensation as that was clearly contrived by the AFL to help out Melbourne and the rules have since changed any way.

This article explains it well:

The AFL's secret formula for free agency compensation
(https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/the-afl-s-secret-formula-for-free-agency-compensation-20180221-p4z16j.html)

Geelong were controversially awarded the same compensation for free agent Steven Motlop as the Brisbane Lions received for Tom Rockliff partly because of the one-year age difference between the pair.

Motlop, who surprisingly earned the Cats an end-of-first-round choice (pick 18), just scraped into the same compensation ‘‘band’’ as Rockliff, who was paid close to $100,000 a season more than the ex-Cat over the same period and whose salary nearly delivered the Lions pick No.2 in the 2017 national draft.

The Motlop decision was made on the basis of a secret formula that The Age can reveal in detail – the so-called ‘‘secret herbs and spices’’ which also renders the length of contract largely irrelevant to the draft pick that teams get for losing a free agent.
Key components of the compensation system include:

■A free agent paid $2 million over two years will be ranked higher on the compensation table than one who is paid $3.5 million over four years. The length of contract is only a ‘‘tie-breaker’’ if annual salary is equal to another player. The contract must be at least two years.

■The compensation is based entirely on guaranteed money, or the ‘‘base’’ salary, with incentive-based payments counting for nothing. A player who is paid $500,000 a season, who can make $800,000 with incentives, is ranked on the basis of a $500,000 contract.
It was this factor - plus the player’s age - that meant North Melbourne received only a second-round pick for star Daniel Wells, even though Wells can make more than $1.5 million over his three-year contract.

His base is less than $500,000 a season and he was 31 when he signed with Collingwood.

■The key to the formula is a ranking system, in which every player in the AFL aged 25 or older is placed in order, based on the size of their (guaranteed) contract.

The highest-paid players are ranked at 100 points, the lowest at 0.

The AFL then allocates up to 12 additional points for a player’s age. At 25 (as of October 31), a player receives the maximum of 12 points, a 26-year-old earns another 10 points, 27-year-olds gain another 8, 28 brings 6 and so forth, with a 30-year-old worth just 2 extra points.

Players older than 30 earn no points - which also counted against Carlton when the Blues lost Jarrad Waite to free agency and received nothing. Under this system, thus, the maximum a player can receive is 112 points.

AFL sources say that the age of a player is important, because two fewer points might see a free agent slide 10 or so placings in the rankings, when they are paid the same money.

Motlop is understood to have been right at the bottom of the band for players who earn an end-of-first-round draft pick, while Rockliff - who was paid an estimated $650,000-$700,000 by Port - was right at the top of that band and not far from earning the Lions pick No.2.

First-round picks are awarded to players who rank in the top 5 per cent, based on the points, while end-of-first-round picks are given for free agents in the 5-15 per cent bracket.

Second-round picks - which Tyrone Vickery and Chris Mayne netted Richmond and Fremantle respectively in 2016 - are for free agents in the 15-30 band. End of second round is for those ranked in the 30-50 per cent group.

The AFL has deliberately avoided letting the clubs know the compensation formula, in part because of concerns that it will be manipulated - as some clubs have contemplated.
Clubs have discussed deals in which a player would be paid enough to earn a first-round pick, and then the club receiving the pick would pay part of the salary of a different player in a ‘‘separate’’ trade.

But clubs can only guess at the ranking of a player if they know where he will be placed, contract-wise, compared to the rest of the competition.

Clubs can appeal the compensation decision, but none has chosen to as yet. The AFL can also intervene and change the compensation - as some thought it should in the Motlop case - if it feels that the outcome is an anomaly.

There is a view from some at club level that first-round compensation picks should be placed in the middle of the first round - giving every team that doesn’t play finals an uninterrupted first-rounder.

Calls for compensation to be scrapped seem unlikely to be heeded, given the risks for northern market clubs such as the Giants and Suns, who would potentially see their lists decimated.

[Axe Man]

What's the deal? 'Gap' keeping Dog, club apart (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-05-22/whats-the-deal-gap-keeping-dog-club-apart)

LUKE Beveridge has admitted the Western Bulldogs and Luke Dahlhaus' management are still a fair distance apart on contract negotiations, but wouldn't be surprised if the premiership forward recommitted sooner rather than later.

A free agent at season's end, the 25-year-old's future has been the subject of constant speculation this season, and Dahlhaus joins close mate Tom Liberatore, Zaine Cordy, Jordan Roughead, Clay Smith, Shane Biggs and Dale Morris as flag Bulldogs coming out of contract.

Dahlhaus has played 146 games and kicked 109 goals for the Bulldogs since being taken with pick 22 in the 2011 NAB AFL Rookie Draft, and the former Geelong Falcon has worked hard on his deficient kicking in his time at Whitten Oval.

Dahlhaus is averaging 22 disposals and four tackles a game while being equal-10th in the AFL for handballs this season (133), but has only managed to kick one goal in nine matches.

While he said a resolution might take some time, Beveridge said Dahlhaus' manager Peter Lenton and Bulldogs list manager Sam Power have been in constant discussions over a new deal for the fan favourite.

"Peter and Sam are in constant talks, but there's a bit of a gap there between both parties," Beveridge said on Tuesday.

"We know Luke is much required and loved player at our club, so all of us hope that a deal can get done.

"We've got a list management meeting in a couple of weeks where we'll process it again, but between now and then, Luke might even be signed."

When asked what the sticking point was, Beveridge conceded the duration of the contract was one issue.

"I'd rather not go into any detail, but I think (the length of deal) is part of the conversation," Beveridge said.

"Luke is entitled to leverage his status in the game and get the best deal for him."

Back in March, Beveridge labelled a report a "lie" that stated the Dogs had tried to offload Dahlhaus in last year's NAB AFL Trade Period.

[Mofra]

Dahlhaus was a terrific player for us but he now needs to improve. His form isn't where it needs to be.
Regarding your niggles observation to explain his form is that based on facts, knowledge or is it one of those subjective eyeball tests from the stands? ;)
Seeing something physical and 'observing' someone's mental state are two different things.

[Ghost Dog]

Could you see Luke bending set shots through from 50 metres out on the boundary line?

Absolutely. Tribal Bias!

[Topdog]

I can't understand why people want to get in an unknown draft pick for a known quantity. Unless we get a top 5 draft pick(which we won't) we need to keep our wanted players.

I'd question if he is a wanted player? We have an abundance of players who get the ball a lot but can't kick. It hurts us. I love Dahl but he is just a woeful kick and I'm not sure he will be around in 6 years. I also don't think we will be contenders next year so I'm not against improving our long term outlook.

[Mofra]

I'd question if he is a wanted player? We have an abundance of players who get the ball a lot but can't kick. It hurts us. I love Dahl but he is just a woeful kick and I'm not sure he will be around in 6 years. I also don't think we will be contenders next year so I'm not against improving our long term outlook.
How does letting a player go for effectively nothing improve out long term outlook?

[The Bulldogs Bite]

I'm torn.

Dahlhaus' form for a while now has been average. On face value for the best part of 18 months he's a slightly built player who isn't overly quick with horrible foot skills. He may have started as a forward, but he simply cannot be played as one now such is his woeful conversion.

For the remainder of the year we should play him as an 'inside mid' - where he played his best footy in 2016.

If he can't re-capture form for whatever reason, I think we can afford to let him go. We simply have too many poor ball users and he's #1 next to Dunkley.

The unfortunate thing is that the compensation we'd get for him wouldn't be great - we're realistically talking a pick in the 20's which is very hit and miss.

[Topdog]

How does letting a player go for effectively nothing improve out long term outlook?

Capspace, draft pick in return, getting more games into another player who may have a higher ceiling.

If you believe a player has peaked and is not of the required standard there is no point in keeping him around.

People questioned how we'd replace Stringer but Gowers has stepped in and is doing a job.

[ledge]

Media beat up I rekon.
Can't see him leaving to be honest, how Geelong can offer much is astounding with all the stars they have on the list demanding big money.
3 year v 2 year deal is about the only hurdle I imagine.

[Axe Man]

Media beat up I rekon.
Can't see him leaving to be honest, how Geelong can offer much is astounding with all the stars they have on the list demanding big money.
3 year v 2 year deal is about the only hurdle I imagine.

Both the CEO and Coach have acknowledged there is a gap between what Dahl wants the the club is offering. Doesn't mean a deal won't get done but hardly a media beat up.

[Mofra]

Capspace, draft pick in return, getting more games into another player who may have a higher ceiling.

If you believe a player has peaked and is not of the required standard there is no point in keeping him around.

People questioned how we'd replace Stringer but Gowers has stepped in and is doing a job.
My major issue is we're effectively getting next to nothing in return given any compo pick will be used in points for West and the next cab off the rank to come in is Honeychurch.

TBH I think we focus too much on a player's flaws and not enough on what they can bring.

[Twodogs]

Absolutely. Tribal Bias!

OK. Any chance you could tell Dahl how to do it? If you can see it maybe you could explain it to him.

"OK Eddie, sorry Luke, you're standing on the boundary with the ball under your arm. If it's a tall on the mark do that thing where you lean sideways and pretend you look over his shoulder at the goal, then instead of returning to where you are supposed to take your shot from you take a step the other way and drop the ball on your foot. It's simple really ;)

[Topdog]

My major issue is we're effectively getting next to nothing in return given any compo pick will be used in points for West and the next cab off the rank to come in is Honeychurch.

TBH I think we focus too much on a player's flaws and not enough on what they can bring.

If we get West for him, longterm that may be a win

[bornadog]

If we get West for him, longterm that may be a win

We will get West anyway

[bulldogtragic]

Bevo: "Luke is entitled to leverage his status in the game and get the best deal for him."

Is Bevo saying that in the context of dealing with Sam Power? Or is Bevo, through the press, telling the 17 other list managers in the AFEL Dahl is a high status player looking for the best deal on the open market?

[bulldogtragic]

We will get West anyway

Completely true. But in a pure fanciful hypothetical, if Rhylee goes at pick 18 and we got Motlop type compo at pick 19, we could try to deal with a top 4 team to trade our pick 19 into say pick 15-16 with a player or other attached. Then we have pick 5, 15-16 and 18/Rhylee. Then we need to move some players on to find some more draft points. What we can do with the compo is interesting if Sam Power is the creative type.

[LostDoggy]

I hope this article is pretty much accurate. If Geelong have made Dahlhaus a very attractive offer, and he chooses to stay at least that shows he is still a fully committed Dog. Good result.

If he chooses to go, its probably for the best.

The manic intensity he showed 2015-2016 has been a little off over the past 18 months. There has been some speculation that he is not as happy at the club as he has been. If this is so, his value is likely to only diminish and a move now is the best deal for all parties.

If the report is accurate, Dahlhaus will be getting more than Motlop so we'd have to be looking at something like an end of first rounder as compensation, which seems fair enough.

Whilst a Webb for Higgins scenario doesn't read great, every draft and pick is different. It could end up being another Jordan MacMahon for 19 for which we get Callan Ward, who then turns into our Jackson Macrae pick, whatever Macmahon gave us over the last few years of his career was always going to pale against what Ward and then Macrae have already given us, let alone what is yet to come.

[azabob]

Bevo: "Luke is entitled to leverage his status in the game and get the best deal for him."

Is Bevo saying that in the context of dealing with Sam Power? Or is Bevo, through the press, telling the 17 other list managers in the AFEL Dahl is a high status player looking for the best deal on the open market?

This one you are reading too much into - that appears Luke Beveridge standard response to all contract questions.

[Twodogs]

Absolutely. Tribal Bias!


I hope this article is pretty much accurate. If Geelong have made Dahlhaus a very attractive offer, and he chooses to stay at least that shows he is still a fully committed Dog. Good result.

If he chooses to go, its probably for the best.

The manic intensity he showed 2015-2016 has been a little off over the past 18 months. There has been some speculation that he is not as happy at the club as he has been. If this is so, his value is likely to only diminish and a move now is the best deal for all parties.

If the report is accurate, Dahlhaus will be getting more than Motlop so we'd have to be looking at something like an end of first rounder as compensation, which seems fair enough.

Whilst a Webb for Higgins scenario doesn't read great, every draft and pick is different. It could end up being another Jordan MacMahon for 14 for which we get Callan Ward, who then turns into our Jackson Macrae pick, whatever Macmahon gave us over the last few years of his career was always going to pale against what Ward and then Macrae have already given us, let alone what is yet to come.


I think it was pick 19 we got for Jordy but we selected Ward with it whatever it was.


We should have an annual "dress like a bandit day" to celebrate. Bwahahahaha.

[LostDoggy]

I think it was pick 19 we got for Jordy but we selected Ward with it whatever it was.


We should have an annual "dress like a bandit day" to celebrate. Bwahahahaha.
Thanks TD, duly amended. Makes it a better comparison anyway :)

[1eyedog]

It's a mystery. I agree, the modern game is really perfect for Luke's style.
I wonder if, after having won a final, some players begin to question 'what else is there?'.
This is considering the demands that modern footy puts on a person's body. He's certainly not the player he was.
It's not as though he can easily 'refresh' in another position on the ground either - you know, some players get switched and their form starts to return.

Highly speculative question - Can we try him as a small forward in the style of Eddie Betts?

I'm not so sure re. Luke's style being suited to the modern game. He's being out-bodied and caught by bigger bodied mids. Most of the mids today are way bigger than Dahl. I think he struggles in there and has to play 100% maniacally to compete which is not 100% sustainable. He'd be the smallest mid going around just about.

He's not good enough by foot to provide a high forward option. The only real position I can see is an opportunistic one in the forward pocket where he can do the Richmond small thing and provide pressure. Is this enough and is it enough to bypass a speculative pick 20 to try something else?

I'd be certainly be entertaining offers for him and think he's one player we can afford to lose.

I'm lost for an answer too but why would our players concede footballing defeat after winning a flag when Brisbane's / Geelong's / Hawthorn's didn't?

[GVGjr]

Seeing something physical and 'observing' someone's mental state are two different things.

I saw the condition he was in at a club function that the club posted on the website and then quickly deleted his part off the vision. It certainly appeared to me that his commitment level and professionalism wasn't where it needed to be.

As I said previously the club is in the best position to make call on how focused players are and with Dahlhaus a big name at the club I hope we are thorough with our negotiations.

[LostDoggy]

A lot of great points and insights from woofers, many thanks and I agree with most.

Personally, I’d like to turn back the clock and play Lukey D as a high pressure, defensive forward pocket, kicking a couple of opportunistic goals a game as he did in earlier years with 20% time in the middle. Definitely in our best 22. My recollection of last year was that in the first 10 rounds or so he was a warrior for us.

[jeemak]

A lot of great points and insights from woofers, many thanks and I agree with most.

Personally, I’d like to turn back the clock and play Lukey D as a high pressure, defensive forward pocket, kicking a couple of opportunistic goals a game as he did in earlier years with 20% time in the middle. Definitely in our best 22. My recollection of last year was that in the first 10 rounds or so he was a warrior for us.

This is it for me, I'd like him to play as a high pressure forward, reduce his weekly load and work on his set shot goal kicking during the week to bring it up to a passable level.

Unfortunately with Libba out we're short for seasoned mids meaning Dahl will need to spend time in there, if we do retain him post this year we need to transition him out of midfield duties because he can't be trusted to use the ball well enough and think his way through pressure areas of the ground which are definitely become tighter and tighter.

[Mofra]

This is it for me, I'd like him to play as a high pressure forward, reduce his weekly load and work on his set shot goal kicking during the week to bring it up to a passable level.

Unfortunately with Libba out we're short for seasoned mids meaning Dahl will need to spend time in there, if we do retain him post this year we need to transition him out of midfield duties because he can't be trusted to use the ball well enough and think his way through pressure areas of the ground which are definitely become tighter and tighter.
The other side of the coin is - where does he want to play?
If he wants to play midfield and Geeong offer him that, it may hurt our ability to keep him.

I thought his best game this year so far was against Essendon where he played a run with role on Merrett. When he's given a task he often fulfills it and the modern game is all about pressure. I think tweaking his midfield role (an area we lack depth and experience in) might be the go for the rest of the season.

[jeemak]

The other side of the coin is - where does he want to play?
If he wants to play midfield and Geeong offer him that, it may hurt our ability to keep him.

I thought his best game this year so far was against Essendon where he played a run with role on Merrett. When he's given a task he often fulfills it and the modern game is all about pressure. I think tweaking his midfield role (an area we lack depth and experience in) might be the go for the rest of the season.

Agree that if he wants to play midfield and we don't offer that up to him and Geelong does, then so be it, we won't likely keep him.

He was good against EFC, though they didn't put any pressure back on us meaning we didn't have issues moving the ball through the middle for the most part. Most sides won't be so pathetic.

[bornadog]

Good news
Luke has come out today saying he wants to be a Bulldog for life.

[Twodogs]

Good news
Luke has come out today saying he wants to be a Bulldog for life.

Better news would be him saying he is going to be having 50 shots at goal with a kicking coach twice a week until he can kick straight.

But it's good news he wants to stay. Luke is one of those fabric type players, you don't take him out of the playing group without leaving a large hole. He has a lot of good energy, we need to redirect some of that energy back into footy. He seems a little content to me, I think we need him to understand that just because we won a flag it doesn't mean the job is done. It's just the start of the job.

[Ozza]

Much prefer we keep a ‘walk up start best 22’ player, than an unknown quantity at an unknown pick.

[The bulldog tragician]

Perhaps it's my memory but while Luke was far from a great kick, he has deteriorated to a remarkable degree this year and last. The fact that he can't make the difference from even 30 metres out seems new.

[Twodogs]

Perhaps it's my memory but while Luke was far from a great kick, he has deteriorated to a remarkable degree this year and last. The fact that he can't make the difference from even 30 metres out seems new.

He was an OK set shot but his strength in his first couple of years was there were certain spots inside 50 if we could get the ball into his hand he almost always would convert from. On the replay you can see him look at the ball carrier and point to a spot on the ground (which is a fair effort in itself) and even though he's only a footstep in front of an opponent he knew that if the ball was put out in front of him that he had enough time to gather it in and let his muscle memory do the rest. He hasn't been playing as a small forward much lately but I haven't seen him do that for a while.

[Mantis]

Read on Twitter that Luke has had 12 shots at goal this year for 1.3 and 8 that haven't scored... Do we really want him playing more forward if this is his return?

[bulldogtragic]

Read on Twitter that Luke has had 12 shots at goal this year for 1.3 and 8 that haven't scored... Do we really want him playing more forward if this is his return?

Really??? 12 shots for just 1 goal. In a time of way too many stats, that stat actually stands out.

[LostDoggy]

It's unfortunate that Luke's goalkicking has fallen away so badly. There are only 2 players on our list who have kicked over 100 career goals and he's one of them. He was a reliable goal a game player for years and still gets forward enough to produce that, but just seems to have lost all confidence when inside 50.

[Greystache]

He seems to have reached the point where he knows he won't covert and isn't really even trying to kick the goal anymore. He reminds me of Eagleton under the pressure of a big game/big moment, kicks with so little intent he doesn't even make the distance from 30m out.

Dahlhaus is one of a number of examples that illustrate how badly our goal kicking has regressed over the past few years. When his value was centered around fanatical defensive pressure and poaching the occasional goal, rather than pure talent, to have lost one of his key attributes completely makes me wonder where he can go with his footy in the future.

[Twodogs]

Read on Twitter that Luke has had 12 shots at goal this year for 1.3 and 8 that haven't scored... Do we really want him playing more forward if this is his return?

It was a bloody good goal though...


That's an unbelievable stat. Eight that haven't scored. He just sort of pokes his foot hopefully at the ball ATM rather than kick through it with any purpose when he's shooting for goal.

But is he gone beyond hope or can he be fixed? If he can get some purpose back in his footy and start playing well then the other stuff, goalkicking and quick hands, may come back too.

[Sedat]

He seems to have reached the point where he knows he won't covert and isn't really even trying to kick the goal anymore. He reminds me of Eagleton under the pressure of a big game/big moment, kicks with so little intent he doesn't even make the distance from 30m out.

Dahlhaus is one of a number of examples that illustrate how badly our goal kicking has regressed over the past few years. When his value was centered around fanatical defensive pressure and poaching the occasional goal, rather than pure talent, to have lost one of his key attributes completely makes me wonder where he can go with his footy in the future.
Not an unfair summation at all.

Heart and soul types are especially difficult conversations to have, but quite simply Dahl is nowhere near the level of Castagna and Butler (very similar types) right now or in the last 12 months, and there's no way in hell these guys are on anywhere near $600k despite being premiership players like Dahl. Since the premiership Dahl has lost the manic defensive pressure edge that was his one-wood, and his disposal and scoring conversion is quite simply poor and not up to AFL standard on any measurement.

He deserves every opportunity for the rest of the season to get that drive and hunger back into his game, but there should be no hurry to sign him up irrespective of the external pressure to do so. I will forever love Dahl for what he did in the years from 2011 to 2016, and if he can get back to that level I'd love to keep him at the right price. But if not, perhaps it would be best for player and club to part company.

[Bullies]

I get the feeling the club wont be going out of their way to keep him. they will offer what they think he is worth and wish him the best if he doesn't take it. there are not a lot of roles for Luke the type of player he is. I also don't think Biggs will be offered another contract.

[Topdog]

Who had any faith that he would kick that goal in the 3rd?

[bulldogtragic]

Read on Twitter that Luke has had 12 shots at goal this year for 1.3 and 8 that haven't scored... Do we really want him playing more forward if this is his return?

Now 13 shots for 1.4 (8 haven't scored).

I can't tell if it's just his poor technique or if it's in his head as well now. 35 out on a slight angle should have been an easy get.

[bulldogtragic]

Who had any faith that he would kick that goal in the 3rd?

Not me. As above, not sure if it's just poor skills or if it's in his head now. Either way, a professional athlete/player wanting long years and good money needs to be making all these easy shots. But he is not.

[Bulldog4life]

Now 13 shots for 1.4 (8 haven't scored).

I can't tell if it's just his poor technique or if it's in his head as well now. 35 out on a slight angle should have been an easy get.

The ball appeared to hit low down on his shin rather than his foot. Poor technique.

[bulldogtragic]

The ball appeared to hit low down on his shin rather than his foot. Poor technique.

If we take that, how has a professional player spent 8 years under specialist coaches not remedied this? 1 goal from 13 attempts is an indictment on his skills and also on those paid to (not) improve them.

[Twodogs]

Who had any faith that he would kick that goal in the 3rd?

Not me. Especially when I saw the ball drop.


Now 13 shots for 1.4 (8 haven't scored).

I can't tell if it's just his poor technique or if it's in his head as well now. 35 out on a slight angle should have been an easy get.

Let's fix his technique and then we will know.


The ball appeared to hit low down on his shin rather than his foot. Poor technique.

I've explained this once already. Watch him as he kicks the ball, his head is in the air and he is looking at the goals as he drops the ball and the ball falls on his foot crooked. Goalkicking is the same method as driving a golfball and you dont stare at the flag as you hit the ball do you? You keep your head down and over the tee and goalkicking is exactly the same.

I'm past suprised and up to stunned that a footballer can get to 100 games with that kicking technique-I knew how to do it properly when I was 8!-and I am horrified that at least 3 senior AFL coaches have allowed that technique to develop.

[bornadog]

Who had any faith that he would kick that goal in the 3rd?

He looked nervous having that shot. Dickson stood next to him and looked like he was trying to get him to relax or something, but it just didn't come off the boot right

[Twodogs]

He looked nervous having that shot. Dickson stood next to him and looked like he was trying to get him to relax or something, but it just didn't come off the boot right


And there is a reason it didn't come off the boot properly. We don't have to do any research or pay any consultants. I will do it for free and I GUARANTEE that I will improve goalkicking inside an hour.

[anfo27]

Everyone knows he is a terrible set shot, including his team mates. Why on earth wouldn't someone be lurking by for handball?

[Twodogs]

Everyone knows he is a terrible set shot, including his team mates. Why on earth wouldn't someone be lurking by for handball?

Because he is only 30 metres out directly in front. I see what you mean but anybody on the face of the planet should have been able to kick that shot. Including my granny and she's been dead for 38 years.

If you're dishing off to teammates from that distance then it's time to hang up the boots.

[Eastdog]

And there is a reason it didn't come off the boot properly. We don't have to do any research or pay any consultants. I will do it for free and I GUARANTEE that I will improve goalkicking inside an hour.

We need you Twodogs at our training sessions when we practice goalkicking.

[Twodogs]

We need you Twodogs at our training sessions when we practice goalkicking.


On this particular topic if I were an AFL footballer I think I would be bored with me pretty quickly and then regard me as peculiar, eccentric and insane in stages.

[merantau]

I had zero confidence he would kick it. He looked like Bambi caught in the headlights so that tells me the problem is just as much in his head as in his technique.

He looks sick at the prospect of having a set shot. He is consumed by what has gone on before. We have a shrink at the club. The shrink should be able to help him surely???

[josie]

On this particular topic if I were an AFL footballer I think I would be bored with me pretty quickly and then regard me as peculiar, eccentric and insane in stages.

Maybe that’s what the club needs TD....

Seriously though, why not contact the club and find out what the hell they are doing about goalkicking ‘coz it is becoming laughable. At VFL today Jong was looking at goals rather than watching footy onto the boot. I have never played the game but even I can see a number of our players wave the ball around, so not watch footy as it drops, lean back instead of over the ball. When Dahl missed that shot and when Bonti missed one a little later (I think) I reckon the air went right out of our sails.

[jeemak]

I said this in the game day thread, it's just not acceptable for that to be his ball drop method and set shot kicking action. There is no excuse for it and it can't continue.

If he has to take it right back to basics and kick a pair of bunched up socks down his bleeding hallway as a first step to redemption, then so be it. That he has gotten so bad is an indictment on himself and the club.

It's dire, and it's unprofessional.

[Twodogs]

I said this in the game day thread, it's just not acceptable for that to be his ball drop method and set shot kicking action. There is no excuse for it and it can't continue.

If he has to take it right back to basics and kick a pair of bunched up socks down his bleeding hallway as a first step to redemption, then so be it. That he has gotten so bad is an indictment on himself and the club.

It's dire, and it's unprofessional.

It's very unprofessional. It's embarrassing too.

[chef]

Was that his last game for us?

[bulldogtragic]

Was that his last game for us?

If he's getting $600,000+ and 3 or 4 years from Geelong as rumoured, then yes. He goes with our respect and our blessing as we can't and shouldn't match anything even near that. Pick 19 or 24 comes to us for Rhylee West. Might be the best thing for all. So if he can get that, more power to him.

[GVGjr]

Was that his last game for us?

I'd think not unless a club comes in with a great offer. He hasn't had a good season with just 2 goals but he was playing a bit better over the last 2 or 3 weeks.

If he is reasonable with his financial demands I think he stays with us

[bornadog]

I'd think not unless a club comes in with a great offer. He hasn't had a good season with just 2 goals but he was playing a bit better over the last 2 or 3 weeks.

If he is reasonable with his financial demands I think he stays with us

I agree. We can't afford to keep losing mids in their mid/late 20s (Higgins, griff/Ward), unless we replace them with a top midfielder.

[GVGjr]

I agree. We can't afford to keep losing mids in their mid/late 20s (Higgins, griff/Ward), unless we replace them with a top midfielder.
If players like Dahlhaus aren't buying in then I'd rather replace them than keep them for the sake of it.
It's going to be a big call because he simply hasn't done enough to be linked to the type of money being speculated.

[Sedat]

I agree. We can't afford to keep losing mids in their mid/late 20s (Higgins, griff/Ward), unless we replace them with a top midfielder.
He's not a mid.

[bornadog]

If players like Dahlhaus aren't buying in then I'd rather replace them than keep them for the sake of it.
It's going to be a big call because he simply hasn't done enough to be linked to the type of money being speculated.

All speculation on what he is after, we will see.

[bornadog]

He's not a mid.

Still can't afford to let him go.

[GVGjr]

Still can't afford to let him go.

So if you accept that he is not a mid and kicked just 2 goals in 17 games this year what is his position?

[bornadog]

So if you accept that he is not a mid and kicked just 2 goals in 17 games this year what is his position?

I don't accept that. He plays midfield full stop. He may rest forward, but to me he is a midfielder. Sedat claims he is not.

His stats show he has had 43 inside 50s

[Mantis]

I don't accept that. He plays midfield full stop. He may rest forward, but to me he is a midfielder. Sedat claims he is not.

His stats show he has had 43 inside 50s

How many of his inside 50’s directly lead to a shot on goal?

[bornadog]

How many of his inside 50’s directly lead to a shot on goal?

Don't know

[bulldogtragic]

How many of his inside 50’s directly lead to a shot on goal?


Don't know

Not directly the answer, but he's credit with 5 goal assists for the season. To go with his 2 goals for the season.

[bornadog]

Not directly the answer, but he's credit with 5 goal assists for the season. To go with his 2 goals for the season.

Contrary to common belief on this forum, Dahl is not a goal kicker. In 2016 he kicked 9 goals and 13 last year. His best season is 17 goals.

The guy is an in and under mid who has had a poor season to his standards but still averaged 22 disposals per game. (still higher than many other of our players this season)

[bulldogtragic]

Contrary to common belief on this forum, Dahl is not a goal kicker. In 2016 he kicked 9 goals and 13 last year. His best season is 17 goals.

The guy is an in and under mid who has had a poor season to his standards but still averaged 22 disposals per game. (still higher than many other of our players this season)

I was just trying to answer Mantis question about his ability as a mid to use his effort and skills to help our forwards kick goals. He's directly helped others to kick goals only 5 times this year in his 17 games.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

I was just trying to answer Mantis question about his ability as a mid to use his effort and skills to help our forwards kick goals. He's directly helped others to kick goals only 5 times this year in his 17 games.

Ouch!

I'd love to keep Dahl but agree 600-700k is too much to pay an inside mid who has a great ability to win the ball and good hands but is appalling with his kicks.

[Ozza]

I was just trying to answer Mantis question about his ability as a mid to use his effort and skills to help our forwards kick goals. He's directly helped others to kick goals only 5 times this year in his 17 games.

He's had our third most score involvements for the season, behind Mclean and Bontempelli. We know he isn't a piercing kick that finds inside 50 targets, but he gets involved in the chains with his hands and zippiness around the contests.

There is a lot of focus on what players like Dahl and Wallis can't do, but not much focus on what they can do. Both are undervalued on this forum.

[bulldogtragic]

He's had our third most score involvements for the season, behind Mclean and Bontempelli. We know he isn't a piercing kick that finds inside 50 targets, but he gets involved in the chains with his hands and zippiness around the contests.

There is a lot of focus on what players like Dahl and Wallis can't do, but not much focus on what they can do. Both are undervalued on this forum.

I'd sign Wallis, no brainer for me. But I think when the media reporting is Dahl being offered 3-4 years at $600,000+ we need to have a discussion about whether he's worth that. It's in this context we need to look at what they can do, and what their current output is. Averaging 20 disposals is good, but his efficiency isn't great. 2 goals & 5 goal assists from 17 games to me says matching an offer such as is being reported wouldn't be in our interests. Weighing up what he can do, and what he's not doing in context of matching offers to me says if he can get a great offer like that elsewhere then more power to him and he leaves with respect for what he's done. I just don't see how we can match such an offer based on what we've seen from Dahl for the last while. However, if the money is much lower than being reported then that conversation changes. But on media reporting so far, I'd prefer not be offering 3-4 years at $600,000 to him based on his output, especially this year.

[jeemak]

Not sure goal assists are a quality measurement to put much weight towards given how poorly we finish.

[Sedat]

Dahl's role is comparable to Rioli, Butler, Costanza and even Higgins at Richmond - all of these guys have him well covered for score involvements, goals, goal assists and pressure acts. And none of these guys would be on anywhere near 500k plus a season (Rioli will get that in his next contract most likely).

Dahl's role is also comparable to Collingwood's mid-sized forwards in Thomas, De Goey, Hoskin-Elliot and Stevenson. Again, Dahl's numbers in all metrics pale in comparison to all of these guys.

Also if we are going to treat Dahl as a midfielder exclusively moving forward (not the worst idea given our horrific lack of midfield depth), his numbers currently don't stack up against most opposition core mids. He is also very small for a core inside mid (his best go with his quick hands), and he has very poor disposal by foot if we think he could be deployed outside the contest in a Hunter-esque mid role.

It's harsh, but Dahl is simply not impacting on the game enough in either role for someone with an expectation of 600k or so a season. I think he has enough positives to his game to be offered a heavily incentivised contract with us - wanting to keep him for the right price and wishing him well if he can get a Godfather offer elsewhere are not mutually exclusive.

[GVGjr]

I don't accept that. He plays midfield full stop. He may rest forward, but to me he is a midfielder. Sedat claims he is not.

His stats show he has had 43 inside 50s

Then why didn't you challenge the statement you originally responded to where Sedat states he's not a mid?

[GVGjr]

Contrary to common belief on this forum, Dahl is not a goal kicker. In 2016 he kicked 9 goals and 13 last year. His best season is 17 goals.

The guy is an in and under mid who has had a poor season to his standards but still averaged 22 disposals per game. (still higher than many other of our players this season)

No one is saying he is a genuine goal kicker but it shows he is adding little when rested forward.
The fact that he's only kicked 2 goals for the season is a very poor performance. For years we've called Macrae out for the same reason.

[Rocket Science]

It might sound odd but I reckon the advent of Richards lends some interesting perspective to where Dahlhaus is at.

High-energy, a creative and generally smart user, provides dash through the middle, can go forward to effect, and all at the age of 19 with a mere half-season under his belt.

We wish we could ascribe that bag of tricks to Dahl. AND Richards can slide back as needed to suit the coach's versatility whims.

Unless there's a productive heart to heart with the club about #6 rededicating himself to the performance levels we need and expect, I think it might be time for farewell handshakes.

[bornadog]

Then why didn't you challenge the statement you originally responded to where Sedat states he's not a mid?

sometimes you get sick of arguing.

[bornadog]

No one is saying he is a genuine goal kicker but it shows he is adding little when rested forward.
The fact that he's only kicked 2 goals for the season is a very poor performance. For years we've called Macrae out for the same reason.

As I said, he has never been a goal kicker. He only kicked 7 more in all of 2016, arguably one of his best years. Yes, he should be kicking more.

[westbulldog]

Dahl has all the courage and commitment in the world but the lack of depth on his kicking lets him down.

[bulldogtragic]

I'm not sold he will ever get back to his best with us G. But I do think he's one of these players that will thrive with a fresh start like Higgins & Lake of recent times but not if he stays (I know both had BMac issues). So I think it's in his and our interest to let him take the reported good money offer. Dahl wins with his career getting a reboot and bigger bank balance, and if the club gets pick 19 or 24, then we win using that to secure Rhylee West. If my assumptions or perceptions are correct, then that's a big win for Dahl, WBFC and whomever gets his services (Geelong). A situation where everybody walks away feeling of winning isn't a disaster.

[Rocket Science]

Dahl has all the courage and commitment in the world but the lack of depth on his kicking lets us down.

Fixed.

Few things make me fill the swear jar quicker than when Dahl gets involved in a possession chain and promptly starts one for the opposition.

[angelopetraglia]

Sounds like he is gone.

Dahlhaus suffered a season-ending ankle injury in round 18 and has been linked to several Victorian clubs, including Geelong. Beveridge seemed uncertain where the premiership midfielder will be next year.

"We know there's interest in the competition for our free agents," Beveridge admitted.

"Luke's a restricted free agent, so hopefully things will work out. There's still some hope that Dahlhaus might be here next year."

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-08-24/dogs-can-become-contenders-again-quickly-says-bevo

[jeemak]

Yep, there's a fair amount of resignation to that prospect within the quoted extracts. Not sure there's too much concern though.

[Mofra]

Sounds like he is gone.

Dahlhaus suffered a season-ending ankle injury in round 18 and has been linked to several Victorian clubs, including Geelong. Beveridge seemed uncertain where the premiership midfielder will be next year.

"We know there's interest in the competition for our free agents," Beveridge admitted.

"Luke's a restricted free agent, so hopefully things will work out. There's still some hope that Dahlhaus might be here next year."

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-08-24/dogs-can-become-contenders-again-quickly-says-bevo
"but Beveridge believes being active in the upcoming trade period"

Interesting.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

"but Beveridge believes being active in the upcoming trade period"

Interesting.

Quite interesting given he normally has said we'll back our group. I wonder if something is in the pipeline.

[ledge]

He did say he hopes he is here next year , so it’s not that we don’t want him.
Did I read years ago that Dahl was so rapt we gave him the chance after being told he lacked kicking skills ?
Maybe he will stay , but might be a contract to good to refuse and he is from out Geelong way.

[Templeton31]

Does not mentioning Libba and Wally mean they are staying?

Would be sad to see Dahl go. Remember when the club started the Dahlhaus Clubhouse for kids coz he was the best/only decent player we had? about 2014. My daughters will be devoed if Luke goes.

[whythelongface]

Would be sad to see Dahl go. Remember when the club started the Dahlhaus Clubhouse for kids coz he was the best/only decent player we had? about 2014. My daughters will be devoed if Luke goes.

It certainly would be sad to see Luke go. He is as tough as nails and despite his limitations has always given his all. However in saying that if he has some trade value that allows us to pick up (potentially) a quality fast mid then i am all for Luke exploring his options.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

"but Beveridge believes being active in the upcoming trade period"

Interesting.

The other interesting thing, putting 2 and 2 and pi together, is that we seem to be low-balling Wallis and Dahl, Rough is on the way out too, yet Bev is talking about needing experience....

[Rocket Science]

The other interesting thing, putting 2 and 2 and pi together, is that we seem to be low-balling Wallis and Dahl, Rough is on the way out too, yet Bev is talking about needing experience....

There's experience, and then there's experience that struggles staying on the park (Roughy) or struggles to kick the thing (Dahl).

How badly do we want that experience?