AFL considering a State of Origin revival to support victims of Australia’s bushfire crisis

AFL considering a State of Origin revival to support victims of Australia’s bushfire crisis

More than 20 years after the last State of Origin match was played, the AFL is considering reviving the concept to support victims of Australia’s bushfire crisis. And the game’s biggest names are queuing up to play.

State of Origin could be revived in aid of the devastating bushfire crisis that has engulfed the country.

The Herald Sun last night revealed that the AFL is considering staging a game of representative football among current AFL stars among a raft of initiatives on the table to support bushfire-ravaged communities in Victoria and beyond.

The league – which has spent recent days formulating its support for those affected by the extensive fires in East Gippsland, the Alpine region of Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia – has debated a range of fundraising initiatives.

A State of Origin match – the likes of which has not been played for almost 21 years – between two teams comprised of current AFL players has emerged as a frontrunner and could be held as soon as next month.

The potential move has been met with early support from some of the game’s biggest names, with AFL Players’ Association president and Geelong champ Patrick Dangerfield quick to back the fundraiser.

“Let’s make it happen!” Dangerfield wrote on Twitter after the Herald Sun last night revealed the possible Origin revival.

Collingwood skipper Scott Pendlebury said “bring it back”, while star ruckmen Max Gawn and Nic Naitanui – who could potentially line-up against one another – were also quick to put their hand up for any Origin game.

The AFL confirmed on Tuesday that discussions were continuing for short-term fundraising initiatives, along with long-term support to help communities and regional clubs impacted by the fires.

It is understood Marvel Stadium is being considered as a venue for the representative clash with a potential match date of February 28.

On Wednesday morning the League said it was considering an ‘All-Stars’ match, perhaps similar to the one staged in 2008.

Mooted: Victoria vs All Stars (from all other states). Second week of preseason comp. No more than 4 players per club selected, and the players who play in this game and sit out a club preseason game.

I hope it happens. From the fundraising but also putting in a rep game each preseason.

If the players are getting behind it, it’ll happen. I like the idea, just praying for no injuries.

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Originally Posted by comrade

If the players are getting behind it, it’ll happen. I like the idea, just praying for no injuries.

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My guess is it will be a little 'bruise free footy' almost as if they'd just played a first or second preseason game. I wonder if it helps our guys progression through their preseasons?

If we have a maximum 4 players. I wonder who they could be? Naughton can't be risked. So maybe Bonts, Macrae, Hunter & Dunkley? Maybe English to join Nic Nat rucking for the All Stars? (If Grundy didn't play)

You would think it would be an NBA All Star type game - not taken too seriously, nothing rough, nice skills on display, little defence and high scoring. Just a bit of light entertainment and a nice little fundraiser for the bushfires.

Of course there is always the risk of injury, players even seem to manage to hurt themselves doing innocuous activities far removed from the footy field.

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Originally Posted by bulldogtragic

If we have a maximum 4 players. I wonder who they could be? Naughton can't be risked. So maybe Bonts, Macrae, Hunter & Dunkley? Maybe English to join Nic Nat rucking for the All Stars? (If Grundy didn't play)

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Not sure anyone would ask for three starting mids from one team + wing.

I suspect JJ gets a run for the all stars, Bont and Hunter for Vic.

AFL.com.au Teams

Victoria

B: Tom Stewart (Geelong), Daniel Talia (Adelaide), Adam Saad (Essendon)
HB: James Sicily (Hawthorn), Michael Hurley (Essendon), Sam Docherty (Carlton)
C: Jack Macrae (WB), Dustin Martin (Richmond), Zach Merrett (Essendon)
HF: Shaun Higgins (North Melbourne), Tom Lynch (Richmond), Robbie Gray (Port Adelaide)
F: Toby Greene (GWS), Jeremy Cameron (GWS), Jordan De Goey (Collingwood)
R: Max Gawn (Melbourne), Patrick Dangerfield (Geelong), Marcus Bontempelli (WB)
Int: Scott Pendlebury (Collingwood), Clayton Oliver (Melbourne), Ben Cunnington (North Melbourne), Sam Walsh (Carlton), Gary Ablett (Geelong), Rowan Marshall (St Kilda)


All Stars (NSW, Queensland, Tasmania, NT, South Australia and Western Australia)

B: Rory Laird (Adelaide), Steven May (Melbourne), Dane Rampe (Sydney)
HB: Brodie Smith (Adelaide), Harris Andrews (Brisbane), Shannon Hurn (West Coast)
C: Bradley Hill (St Kilda), Patrick Cripps (Carlton), Tim Kelly (West Coast)
HF: Charlie Cameron (Brisbane), Jack Riewoldt (Richmond), Isaac Heeney (Sydney)
F: Michael Walters (Fremantle), Ben Brown (North Melbourne), Aaron Naughton (Western Bulldogs)
R: Brodie Grundy (Collingwood), Nat Fyfe (Fremantle), Lachie Neale (Brisbane)
Int: Tom Mitchell (Hawthorn), Stephen Coniglio (GWS), Elliot Yeo (West Coast), Alex Sexton (Gold Coast), Connor Rozee (Port Adelaide), Jarrod Witts (Gold Coast)

I had no idea Rampe was from NSW, only knew him as a Willy player.

How the AFL side can pick Gary Ablett is beyond me. Is this a team by reputation or best players?

Herald Suns effort:
https://i.postimg.cc/Zqcm7vBs/image.jpg
https://i.postimg.cc/dQXYxY3F/image.jpg

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Originally Posted by Axe Man

Herald Suns effort:
https://i.postimg.cc/Zqcm7vBs/image.jpg
https://i.postimg.cc/dQXYxY3F/image.jpg

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They can't even put in the reigning Premiership coach.

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Originally Posted by bornadog

They can't even put in the Premiership coach.

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Which one? Of current coaches Clarkson has won 4 v Hardwick 2 and Bevo/Scott/Simpson 1 each from Victoria.

For the Allies I think it's just Longmire v Worsfold with 1 each.

Don't think the coaches are going to matter much anyway, it's just a ceremonial role.

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Originally Posted by Axe Man

Which one? Of current coaches Clarkson has won 4 v Hardwick 2 and Bevo/Scott/Simpson 1 each from Victoria.

For the Allies I think it's just Longmire v Worsfold with 1 each.

Don't think the coaches are going to matter much anyway, it's just a ceremonial role.

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ok Fixed - should be reigning

To tell you the truth, I don't want any Bulldogs players playing. Great cause to raise money, otherwise means nothing.

I have never been a fan of SOO

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Originally Posted by bornadog

How the AFL side can pick Gary Ablett is beyond me. Is this a team by reputation or best players?

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All stars so it would definitley include Gary.

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Originally Posted by bornadog

They can't even put in the reigning Premiership coach.

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I would say the players would get a say in if they want to play in it and the smallest niggle would keep them out, so don’t be surprised if a few all stars aren’t playing.
Basically picked by players who put their hand up.
I dread the thought of a player getting a major injury.

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Originally Posted by ledge

Basically picked by players who put their hand up.
I dread the thought of a player getting a major injury.

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Players PLAY.

Injury, smin-jury. PLAY.

This *SHOULD* be the highest level of footy (and most eye candy footy) we ever get to watch. I 100% get that we can't (and shouldn't) do it in season but playing during the 2nd round of pre-season is surely a compromise that even the staunchest critics of the concept can get behind. As for coaches who worry this is impacting on 'their' season? Well, name me a side that finished the season last year with the same 'systems and structures' with which they exited the pre-season game looking ahead to the season 'with confidence'...NONE. Hell, Richmond played a 1st gamer on grand final day and he seemed F-I-N-E...so much for 'needing' that extra pre-season game in the 'system' to get ready. Give me a break.

Stephenson missed 9 weeks after visiting a TAB last year (and the visit might have been via his mobile phone for all I know!), I have no doubt some of them have missed with strained thumbs due to excessive playing of NBA2K and some of the other off-field misadventures we have seen/heard over the years...a state of origin game is not the worst thing that can happen or biggest threat to player welfare.

Players PLAY. Yes, someone will (no doubt) get injured. But they equally could have been injured in the pre-season game or training session they are MISSING...

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Originally Posted by mjp

Players PLAY. Yes, someone will (no doubt) get injured. But they equally could have been injured in the pre-season game or training session they are MISSING...

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Yeah, that's the key point.

There are games already scheduled for this time anyway so there's always risk of injury. May as well slot the SoO game in, raise a bunch of money and we get to see the best of the best on the same field which is pretty cool.

Just play the other pre-season games that week as normal with the players selected in the exhibition match being rested.

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Originally Posted by comrade

Yeah, that's the key point.

There are games already scheduled for this time anyway so there's always risk of injury. May as well slot the SoO game in, raise a bunch of money and we get to see the best of the best on the same field which is pretty cool.

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Bingo. It's not 'extra' football that has the sports scientists so concerned about loading, it's a replacement for one meaningless JLT game.

I suspect any SOO has the same extended bench too as that means bigger teams = more stars = more interest from fans who get top see 'their' players don the big V or Allied jumper equivalent.

Apparently confirmed for Friday 28th February at Marvel Stadium.

Fits in well with our pre-season games scheduled for 21st February and 7th March.

Teams will be coached by Damien Hardwick (Victoria) and John Longmire (All Stars). Looks like you got your wish BAD!

AFL confirms State of Origin match, makes massive donation

THE AFL has announced a landmark State of Origin match to raise funds for the Australian bushfire disaster in addition to a monster donation to support relief efforts.

Victoria will play an All Stars line-up on Friday February 28, with money raised to boost a Community Relief Fund set-up by the AFL to help rebuild football facilities ripped apart by the national crisis.

Richmond premiership coach Damien Hardwick will lead the Victorians and Sydney counterpart John Longmire will coach the All Stars in the match to be staged at Marvel Stadium.

The AFL ($1.35m) – in association with the clubs ($900,000) and AFL Players Association ($250,000) – have committed a $2.5million donation.

A total of $1m will provide immediate emergency assistance through the Australian Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery fund. An additional $1.5m will kickstart the Community Relief Fund for grassroots facilities.

The match – to be played during the second weekend of the pre-season March Community Series – will see players selected in a process still to be determined.

There will be a maximum of three players per AFL club eligible to take part in the match to ensure minimal disruption to club's pre-season plans just 20 days before round one.

Essendon's trip to face West Coast at Lathlain Park in the Marsh Series – also fixtured for February 28 – has been move to the day before.

The AFLW match between Collingwood and Melbourne scheduled for Friday February 28 at Victoria Park will now be played at Marvel Stadium to create a double header.

It is the first game of its kind since the 2008 Hall of Fame Tribute Match that saw Victoria beat the Dream Team by 17 points in front of a 69,294 fans at the MCG.

The match will be broadcast on Channel Seven, Fox Footy, the AFL Live Official App, Kayo and various radio partners.

League chief executive Gillon McLachlan said he was blown away by the reaction to the cause.

"Our industry is heartbroken by the devastation that the fires are causing around the country and our clubs and players have suggested a number of initiatives where we can support affected communities in the short and longer term as they deal with the aftermath of these fires, he said.

"A game of footy can't change what has happened but it is a way for all of our clubs, our players and our fans to acknowledge the incredible sacrifice that so many have made in battling the fires and to support those communities that have been impacted by the bushfires."

"We know that those communities are suffering now but they are also going to need our support as they start to rebuild. Sport builds bonds within communities and we want people to know they have the support of the entire football industry and that we will be there to help them rebuild facilities and programs and ensure people continue to come together.

"The State of Origin game will help raise further funds to support that ongoing rebuild.

"I want to thank our players and clubs for their commitment to doing something substantial that raises money and clearly demonstrates the support to the local football communities of those areas impacted.

"Our clubs and our AFL and AFLW players are also working on a number of other initiatives to raise money and to support those communities in need and we will continue to work with them over the coming weeks and months to continue to coordinate our efforts.

"On behalf of the AFL community, I also want to thank firefighters, members of the have given up their time – and in some cases their lives – to protect others. We are grateful for what you have done for our community."

Geelong superstar and AFLPA president Patrick Dangerfield said the players were all behind the cause.

"It was an immediate 'yes' when the State of Origin concept was put to players by the AFLPA. We, like everyone, are heartbroken and desperate to help," he said.

"We're committed to putting on a great event for fans and hopefully raise a significant amount of money.

"In addition to committing to this match, we're proud to be able to make a $250,000 donation on behalf of all male and female players, which will be split amongst various charities to support those affected."

AFLW clubs will also support the fundraising efforts by housing donation collecting points at matches in the upcoming season starting February 7.

Bonts, Macrae & English/JJ ??

(Naughton still being managed)

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Originally Posted by bulldogtragic

Bonts, Macrae & English/JJ ??

(Naughton still being managed)

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I think there would be a fair few ruckmen ahead of English. Caleb could be a chance for the All Stars.

It's not going to be all the absolute best players in the land. Obviously there will be those that are unavailable, after that it's a selection of 2 or 3 players from every club.

I'd like to see ideally every club chips in 3 players. For 54 players, 2 X 27 player teams. So 9 player interchanges.

Three rucks a side (roughly 10 min a quarter of actual rucking). So starting on the bench 2 rucks, another KPP & 6 mids/flankers. Unlimited interchanging. 20 mins plus time on quarters. Clubs to have some input about total minutes to be played by their players.

I don't mind the 9 point goal from outside the 50 if the NAB put up $10,000 a super goal or something like that. Gentle umpiring.

It should hopefully keep the risk of any injuries low.

All club cheer squads offered seats adjoining each other (at ticket prices) for comradarie. I liked that about attending SoO games.

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Originally Posted by Axe Man

I think there would be a fair few ruckmen ahead of English.

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Brodie Grundy and NicNat for a start.

I'd imagine Vics will go with Gawn, and Goldstein if they want a second ruck.

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Originally Posted by mjp

Players PLAY. Yes, someone will (no doubt) get injured. But they equally could have been injured in the pre-season game or training session they are MISSING...

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Luke Darcy did his knee at the last session before Christmas. It was a stinking hot day, I remember Jim saying "why didn't Rocket just call the session off and head to the pub.

Our best players should be pleading their case to play in this and I hope our clubs makes them available if they are fit enough
It's an awesome opportunity for the players

https://i.postimg.cc/q7xZbP6y/soa.jpg

Spot the error...

Josh Dunkley is NOT a forward...and he’s also a Victorian :D

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Originally Posted by comrade

Josh Dunkley is NOT a forward...and he’s also a Victorian :D

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Born in Sydney ;)

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Originally Posted by bornadog

Born in Sydney ;)

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Still a Victorian.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Axe Man

Still a Victorian.

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How does SOO work? I thought it was based on where you are born

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Originally Posted by bornadog

How does SOO work? I thought it was based on where you are born

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Makey upey. Dunstall played for Victoria & The Allies. Carey played for NSW & SA.

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Originally Posted by bulldogtragic

Makey upey. Dunstall played for Victoria & The Allies. Carey played for NSW & SA.

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I really hate the Admin of the AFL

Quote:

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Originally Posted by bornadog

How does SOO work? I thought it was based on where you are born

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It used to be where you were registered to play at the age of 16. Then they started to chip away at the eligibility criteria.

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Originally Posted by Twodogs

It used to be where you were registered to play at the age of 16. Then they started to chip away at the eligibility criteria.

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Yeah I thought it was something along the lines of where you played the majority of your junior footy (apart from when they operated under partial rules that allowed the likes of Dunstall and Carey to play for other states).

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Axe Man

Yeah I thought it was something along the lines of where you played the majority of your junior footy (apart from when they operated under partial rules that allowed the likes of Dunstall and Carey to play for other states).

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They started to chip away at the criteria because they were obsessed with seeing how a forward line with Lockett and Dunstall would operate. Then it was Carey...

The Whitten medal will be revived and take its place alongside the Brownlow, Norm Smith, Coleman etc.

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Originally Posted by BornInDroopSt'54

The Whitten medal will be revived and take its place alongside the Brownlow, Norm Smith, Coleman etc.

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I guess Boomer Harvey will have to change his business cards, now no longer being the last man to be awarded the EJ Whitten Medal.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by bulldogtragic

I guess Boomer Harvey will have to change his business cards, now no longer being the last man to be awarded the EJ Whitten Medal.

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Haha. Hopefully Macrae wins it this time.

Mate v mate: How the Vic v All Stars teams will be picked

CLUBS will hold the selection power for next month's State of Origin bushfire relief match after each receiving a shortlist of names from the AFL on Wednesday.

Eight players – four for Victoria and four the All Stars – were put forward by the AFL that clubs will be required to confirm as fit to play for the Victoria v All Stars match at Marvel Stadium on Friday, February 28.

Victorian coach Damien Hardwick and All Stars counterpart John Longmire will then select their squads of 27 on Tuesday, February 18. A maximum of three players per AFL club will be eligible to feature across the two playing lists.

The final teams will be announced on AFL.com.au on Wednesday, February 26.

Each team will have a starting 18, six interchange players and three emergencies.

A player's best and fairest finish and the 2019 Virgin Australia AFL All-Australian squad were heavily favoured in the process of selecting eight names from each club on Wednesday.

Players including Geelong superstar Patrick Dangerfield, Melbourne's three-time All-Australian ruckman Max Gawn, Collingwood's five-time club champion Scott Pendlebury, GWS Coleman medallist Jeremy Cameron and West Coast's talismanic big man Nic Naitanui have all put their hands up to play.

Currently injured players – including Sydney superstar Lance Franklin and Gold Coast co-captain Jarrod Witts – were not considered in the eight names in liaison with clubs.

International-born players will also be eligible for selection for the All Stars.

The match will start at 7.50pm AEDT with an NAB AFL Women's match for premiership points between Collingwood and Melbourne to be played as a curtain raiser at 5.40pm.

All funds raised from the match will support the Community Relief Fund that has been set up by the AFL to help rebuild local football facilities torn apart by the national bushfire crisis.

The AFL, clubs and AFLPA have donated $1.5 million to the fund, with a further $1 million going to immediate relief.

Both teams will train at Marvel Stadium on Thursday, February 27.

Details on ticket sales for the match are expected to be announced in coming days.

The match will be broadcast on Channel Seven, Fox Footy, the AFL Live Official App, Kayo and various radio partners.