Several things here, firstly I think that we can play finals next year and I think we will. I don't believe that the cull that alot of people are suggesting is actually going to happen. Yes I think some players will be axed but i don't think it's going to be as deep as has been alluded to. Players will be axed in the 1st 2nd and 3rd years with the majority in the second year I believe not the 1st.
2011 will be a defining time for Hardwick. List management at the end of 2010 is going to be crucial even more so than this year. We will get rid of the obvious this year, but the serious cull will be in 12 months time and will probably involve players we don't think should be culled.
I don't necessarily agree with you here Rodger. I do agree that 2011 will be a watershed year for the new coach but I think we will cull heavily this year given the timing.
The club is at a low point currently, disillusioned and dis-empowered. The club and coach will be given far more latitude at the moment than they would once they have been entrenched for a time. The supporters are looking for change so delistings will be not only tolerated but also expected and even welcomed while next year, if we see any success at all, this will not be the case.
Additionally, Hardwick has no emotional or personal ties to the players at the moment. Delisting and retiring players now will be much easier than after he has formed relationships with the side.
Another reason our position on the ladder. We have an opportunity to find quality players with early picks in every round this year where, with a compromised draft imposed over the next 3 years, this opportunity will not be available. If the trades and delistings are not made now we will have or opportunity to replace players severely compromised.
Finally we need to get the process underway immediately and waiting until next year or not making the heavy changes now, will only prolong the pain to the club and process.
I think we will certainly continue the process next year and the years beyond but this year, with a significant amount of list cloggers sitting idle on our books and with other clubs keen to trade, the major cull will occur this year.
Stipes
