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Pictured are U15 Comets players Jason Nirens and Jackson Kalb in front of their 100th match banner in Round 3.

Perfect five for flying Jackas

Over the weekend the AJAX Football Club registered wins across all five teams for the second time this season.

The seniors fell short of putting in a four quarter effort against rivals Old Brighton, however a dominant first term and strong finish saw them pick off last year’s semi-finalists 14.16 (100) – 13.11 (89) at Gary Smorgon Oval on Saturday.

The blustery conditions affected both teams’ skill level, with the Jackas heading into quarter time, converting five out of ten scoring shots with the wind, to lead by 25 points.

David Fayman continued his strong start to 2016 with the opening goal, before speedster Dean Rotenberg set the game alight with back-to-back majors.

Adam Caplan made it four in a row with a good finish on the run before a late counter-attack from Old Brighton narrowed the margin at the first break.

Veteran utility Eugene Routman was unable to capitalise in the forward fifty, kicking three first-term behinds, adding to the Jackas’ recent yips in front of goal.

With the aid of the breeze, the visitors bridged the gap on the scoreboard but also had their troubles in front of the big sticks, continuing the day’s poor-kicking theme.

After a standout first quarter, Rotenberg left the ground cradling his shoulder, following a knock he recived in a contest.

Jake Lew was the Jackas’ only goal-kicker in the second term, as the visitors drew within two goals at the main break.

Intensity from both sides lifted a notch in the third as the game began to open up, with Old Brighton narrowly winning the quarter with a five-goal to four effort, setting up a thrilling finale.

Against the wind in the third term, the visitors kicked the first four goals to claim the lead for the first time.

Former captain Josh Ludski inspired his team with a strong mark and goal to halt Old Brighton’s momentum.

A small dose of indiscipline crept into the Jackas’ game with important defender Daniel Cohen sent off for a slip of the tongue.

The visitors proceeded to reclaim the lead by two points, before the Jackas finished the quarter with a flurry of goals, three in as many minutes, courtesy of some brilliant solo efforts from Alex Wollan, Routman and skipper Nick Marks.

Ten points is all that separated both sides heading into the final 30 minutes.

Lew ensured the Jackas kicked away early, slotting a sensational goal with assistance from Routman.

Brad Caplan was the unlikely flyer in a marking contest, but failed to finish off his good work in front of goal.

Adam Caplan’s second and Stuart Fayman’s first stretched the margin out to five goals with ten minutes to play, but Old Brighton weren’t done with, storming back into the contest with the last three goals of the game.

The Jackas went into a full ground defensive zone, shutting down the game and eventually securing the vitally important four points with a gutsy 11-point win.

Jackas and Jackettes Ladders.

Lew kicked three goals, while Adam Caplan, Rotenberg and David Fayman were the other multiple goal-kickers with two.

Crafty left-footer Alex Wollan was exceptional in the win, playing a starring role in the final quarter, earning him the Beyond Coconut Water Player of the Match.

Ben Kalmus held his own once again on the last line of defence, while midfielder Josh Ludski continued his consistent start to the year.

Listen back to Ben's interview with J-Air Radio's 'On the Ball' on Monday night.

Earlier, the reserves led at every change to comfortably beat Old Brighton 9.15 (69) – 3.5 (23).

In a scrappy affair, the inside grunt of Dov Paltiel and Jayden Yarrow was important, while promising left-footer Jordan Cohen oozed class on the outside.

The twos kicked 3.9 (27) to half-time, their inability to capitalise on scoring opportunities keeping the visitors in the contest.

Ruckman Daniel Goodman continued his rich vein of form, floating forward to kick a game-high three goals, while stand-in skipper Ari Wytwornik and swingman Jeremy Forbes controlled the back half.

Across the road on Lindsay Hassett Oval, the under 19s continued their perfect start to the season, dismantling Aquinas to the tune of 163 points, limiting their dismal opponents to just two points.

Goal-sneak Ben Schwartz kicked six majors, while Ryan Kagan and Andrew Joel slotted three apiece.

Nuggetty inside midfielder Jesse Velleman was instrumental in the big win, putting in a best on ground display.

On Sunday the Jackettes and the Thirds continued their unbeaten runs in 2016.

The girls enjoyed playing at home for the first time this season, toppling Fitzroy by 19 points.

Toni Hamilton kicked two goals, while Dani Robinson and Tamara Epshtein were standout performers.

Finally, the Thirds sealed the club’s fifth win of the weekend with an impressive four-quarter effort against Old Trinity, running out 76-point victors.

Sam Brygel was busy in front of goal kicking three while Daniel Wein and Noah Rischin combined for four majors.

Next Saturday the seniors (2pm) and reserves (11.40am) play away to St Bedes / Mentone Tigers at Brindisi St Oval (Melway: 86 K6).

A top of the table clash for the under 19s when they play away to PEGS FC at 9.20am.

The Jackettes will play-off in a grand final rematch vs Gippsland at Traralgon Recreation Reserve on Sunday at 12pm, while the Thirds also play St Bedes at Gary Smorgon Oval at 12pm on Sunday. 

Hope to see you all down for another massive weekend of AJAX Footy!

The club extends a big Mazel Tov to skipper Nick Marks on his engagement to Elise Kenny over the weekend!

#AlwaysAjax

Aaron Fetter
AJAX Amateur Football Club
Media & Communications Manager
www.ajaxfootballclub.com.au

Jackas 'remember them' with fighting win

The AJAX Football club registered their second consecutive ANZAC Day victory against Fitzroy, prevailing by 18 points in a scrappy encounter at Brunswick Street Oval.

Before the bounce players from both sides, match officials and the hundreds of supporters that flocked to the ground, paid their respects in participating in a short Anzac day service, where the ode was recited, the last post sounded and a minute of silence observed.

Photo courtesy: VAFA Media

Kicking against a slight breeze didn’t seem to hamper the Jackas in the opening term as they skipped away to a 16-point lead at quarter time.

Jake Lew benefited from some slick ball movement from Warren Steinberg, before fellow forwards David Fayman and Geoff Measey hit the scoreboard.

The second term evolved into an arm wrestle and despite the near perfect playing conditions, neither team could break the game open.

AJAX’s steely defence kept the home side goalless, while Corey Jankie kicked his side’s only major of the quarter.

The Jackas went into half-time with a 23-point advantage and with plenty areas of their game to address.

It was more of the same in the third term, as both teams failed to produce an attractive style of play.

Wayward kicking for goal continued to be a theme for the Jackas, managing just two goals from six scoring shots.

Lew did well to hang onto a few contested marks, receiving close attention from behind all day.

Ash Kalb assured the visitors entered the final break full of run, linking up through the middle of the ground and finishing with a great goal nearing the siren.

Photo courtesy: VAFA Media

The game finally broke open in the final quarter, as the Jackas kicked five goals to four to secure an 11.14 (80) – Fitzroy 9.8 (62) away victory.

Dean Rotenberg proved a livewire up forward, swooping on the crumbs from a typical Adam Caplan high-marking attempt.

Fellow small forward Alex Wollan added an aerial mark and calm finish to his highlight reel, while Lew kicked back-to-back goals late in the quarter to finish with four majors.

David Fayman continued his good form, kicking two goals. Photo courtesy: VAFA Media

Ben Kalmus was a rock in defence, the Caplan brothers were as industries as ever and developing ruckman Zac Braun continued to impress as the Jackas’ number one big-man.  

Earlier, the reserves suffered a heartbreaking 11.12 (78) – Fitzroy 13.6 (84) loss, conceding a goal on the final siren.

Holding slender leads at quarter and half-time, the Jackas let the home side back into the contest with a few costly misses in front of goal.

Trailing by two goals at the start of the fourth term, the twos looked nervy with ball in hand and coughed it up at dangerous parts of the ground, causing a number of costly turnovers.

Fitzroy levelled the scores in the dying stages and with the home-crowd behind them, willed their team inside forward fifty with seconds to play.

The Jackas conceded a mark on the siren, and the Fitzroy player calmly slotted the match-winner.

19-year old Josh Baron showed plenty snapping four goals, ruckman Daniel Goodman continued his solid form booting two, while skipper Joel Gocs was resolute in defence.

Kicking off the triple-header at nine in the morning was the Thirds who recovered from a slow start, to kick 11 goals to five after half-time, assuring their unblemished start to 2016 with a 13.11 (89) – 6.12 (48) win.

Late inclusion Levi Lewis kicked three. The other multiple goal-kickers were Daniel Wein, Jacob Joel and Nadav Harel who returned from injury.

Shimon New, Benji Jones and premiership defender Tim Freed all held their own in the back fifty.

Ash Shenker’s under 19s made it three from three, holding off a fast-finishing Monash Blues, winning 9.13 (67) – 7.8 (50) at Frearson Oval.

Utilities Ben De Winter and Reece Israel kicked three apiece. Guy Vadas, Elliot Blau and Noam Marom were all prominent in the win.

You may as well pitch a tent at Albert Park this weekend. Why?... All FIVE games will be played at home!

AJAX host rivals Old Brighton at Gary Smorgon Oval this Saturday. The reserves kick off at 11:40am followed by the seniors at 2pm (live on J-Air 87.8fm).

The under 19s play Aquinas across the road at 1pm on Lindsay Hassett Oval.

On Sunday the Jackettes play their first home game of the season at 12pm vs Fitzroy, followed by the Thirds who face Old Trinity at 2pm.

Hope to see you all down for a massive weekend of AJAX Footy!

#AlwaysAjax

Aaron Fetter
AJAX Amateur Football Club
Media & Communications Manager 

Jackas hammer Hampton at home

History was made over the weekend with the AJAX Senior Football Club fielding a record five teams for the first time ever. The milestone was capped off by a clean sweep of victories, a feat that President Ronnie Lewis wouldn’t mind seeing continue. “It was a very exciting time for everyone at the club this weekend”.

Listen back to the President's chat with J-Air's On the Ball on Monday night.

The seniors were eager to make amends for their poor round one performance against Old Scotch, and a triple-header at Gary Smorgon Oval in front of a strong home crowd set the perfect scene for it.

Visitors Hampton were also coming off a loss, while the Jackas had mixed results against the Rovers last season, recording a win and a loss.

Kicking with a strong wind in the opening quarter, the Jackas dominated play, skipping out to a 26-point lead at the first break. 

Geoff Measey was busy early, taking an acrobatic mark in front of goal, while youngster Brandon Joel who was one of three inclusions, showed his confidence at senior level, barging out of a crowded pack and kicking truly.

Not to be outdone, five-time leading goal-kicker David Fayman toe-poked the ball to his advantage, waited for it to sit for him, gave the don’t argue to a would-be tackler, pirouetted out of trouble and snapped a goal of the season contender from 40 meters on his left foot.

Against the wind in the second quarter, Hampton controlled the play and kicked five goals to two, closing the margin to just seven points at half-time.

Speedster Dean Rotenberg had a hand in both Jackas goals, while Measey’s defensive work was on full display, earning himself two free kicks before the main break.

Coach Marty Pask was characteristically vocal in the rooms, demanding his chargers assert their dominance on the game in the second-half.

The Jackas responded well in front of the animated home crowd, keeping the visitors goalless in the third term and kicking four of their own, to lead by 29 points at the final break.

David Fayman found some of his best form, spending long minutes in midfield but pushed forward to kick his third goal, courtesy of some good delivery from his skipper Nick Marks.

Late goals to Warren Steinberg, Joel and Stuart Fayman handed the Jackas the momentum as tempers threated to boil over, with small fracas breaking out at both ends.

It was a free-flowing final term as the Jackas displayed an exciting and skilful style of play, often moving the ball from one end to the other without error.

Hampton kicked the first of the quarter but only managed a consolation goal later on, as the Jackas piled on seven unanswered majors to romp home to an 18.10 (118) – 9.11 (65) win.

David Fayman was back to his best kicking five goals, while it was another typical Warren Steinberg day, spending time all around the ground and kicking another bag of three.

Other multiple goal-kickers were Geoff Measey (three) who was adjudged the Beyond Coconut Water Player of the Match, Brandon Joel and Dean Rotenberg who both kicked two.

Check out Saturday's Match Highlights on the Club's newly launched Youtube account. Be sure to subscribe!

Earlier, the Reserves also bounced back from their round one loss with an impressive 14.10 (94) – 3.6 (24) win over Hampton.

A seven-goal to one opening quarter helped set up a 54-point buffer at half-time.

Despite their position in the game Coach Rob Paterson implored his team to be disciplined and stick to the game plan untill the final siren.

The Jackas extended the margin slightly in the third term with their team defence a strong focus, only conceding one point for the quarter.

The game continued AJAX’s way in the final stanza, with the twos eventually running out convincing 70-point victors.

Jeremy Forbes looked rejuvenated as a forward, putting his stamp on the contest kicking four goals, while ruckmen Daniel Goodman (three) and Jordan Tonkin (two) were the other multiple goal-kickers.

Senior hopefuls Jake Kalmus, Jayden Yarrow, Justin Berkowitz and Nathan Zielinski all did their chances no harm with standout performances.

The first of three games for the day at home was the undefeated under 19s who finished strongly, knocking off Preston Bullants 15.7 (97) – 7.7 (49).

A good old fashioned talking-to from first-year coach Ash Shenker hit the spot as the young Jackas outscored the visitors 59-15 in the second-half after leading by just four points at the main break.

Forward dynamo Ryan Kagan bagged five goals in a best afield display while mobile backman Adam Klein put in another impressive showing.

The club’s winning-ways continued on Sunday with the Thirds opening up their 2016 account with a dominant 62-point victory, setup by an 11-goal to three second half.

Skipper Zev Aron had a day out kicking six goals from just about everywhere, while smooth ball carriers Eli Adelist (three goals) and Jordan Rubinstein were damaging on the wing.

The Jackettes capped off a remarkable weekend for the club, recording a memorable comeback victory against Bayswater in a thrilling low-scoring affair.

The girls were kept goalless in two quarters but goals to Ally Bild, Julia Caplan and Toni Hamilton in the dying minutes, completed a stunning 20-point turnaround and an eight-point win.

AJAX are honoured and humbled to play a triple-header against Fitzroy on ANZAC Day this Monday April 25 at Brunswick Street Oval, (Melway: 44 B1).

Thirds at 9:20am, reserves at 11:40am and seniors from 2pm.

The under 19s will also play on the day against Monash Blues at Frearson Oval, Monash University at 12pm, while the Jackettes have the bye.

Aaron Fetter
AJAX Amateur Football Club
Media & Communications Manager 

 Josh Ludski assesses his options further afield in the loss to Old Scotch on the weekend.

 Peter Haskin/AJN

Jackas’ round one reality check

AJAX received a rude awakening to start their season, after they were on the end of a second-half onslaught from demoted A-Grade club Old Scotch, suffering a demoralising 67-point loss at Camberwell Sports Ground on Saturday.

The Jackas were beaten all over the ground in the opening quarter, often being second to the football and lax defensively.

Despite the home side’s dominance, AJAX had the same amount of scoring shots but failed to capitalise on the scoreboard, trailing by 15 points at quarter time.

Moments into the second stanza, Old Scotch extended the margin, but soon after Richie Simon answered with a brilliant set shot from fifty out on a difficult angle.

The Jackas were never able to take control of the contest with the home side’s run and carry too slick on most occasions.

The margin was pushed out to 30 points, before Eugene Routman provided a spark up forward kicking back-to-back goals, keeping his team in it approaching half-time.

Jake Lew hit the scoreboard but Old Scotch promptly answered each time the Jackas closed the margin.

Jake Lew hangs onto a contested mark.
Peter Haskin/AJN

The high-scoring quarter came to an end and despite the visitors’ best efforts they lost the quarter by 11 points, but remained close enough, 26 points adrift.

AJAX dominated possession in the third term, but failed to make substantial inroads on the scoreboard.

After returning best and fairest winner Warren Steinberg kicked his second, Old Scotch put the foot down and amassed 13 scoring shots to one, holding a commanding 48-point lead at the final break.

Coach Marty Pask urged his players to ‘write some wrongs’ in the last term, but 2015’s A-Grade relegates proved they’ll be genuine contenders with five goals to two, completing a dominating performance, handing AJAX a 9.9 (63) – 18.22 (130) loss to start season 2016.

Steinberg was one of the Jackas’ better players and kicked three goals, while Routman and Simon were the other multiple goal-kickers.

Skipper Nick Marks led from start to finish and was his team’s best player but there weren’t many others that showed the commitment and application to the contest that he did.

Check out Saturday's Match Highlights on the Club's newly launched YouTube account.

Meanwhile, AJAX’s reserves didn’t fair too much better trailing at every break to go on to lose 4.11 (35) – 13.15 (93).

Despite the score line, the Jackas were in the contest right up till half-time, behind by eight points at quarter time and 16 at the main break.

AJAX was kept goalless in the second half, while the much stronger and polished Old Scotch outfit piled on seven of their own from 18 scoring shots.

Co-captain Joel Gocs was the reserves’ best in his 100^th game for the club.

Nathan Zielinski provided plenty of run from behind while senior hopefuls, Brandon Joel (two goals), Jayden Yarrow, Dov Paltiel and Alex Wollan also put in serviceable performances in the loss.

The only shining light from the first weekend of football came from the under 19s who saw off a late charge from Old Haileyburians to run out 10.21 (81) – 9.8 (62) victors.

Under 19's Coach Ash Shenker spoke with J-Air Radio's 'On the Ball' about the victory on Monday night.

Leading by just seven points at the final break, the unders had the opportunity to blow the home side away but failed to capitalise on the seven more scoring shots they had.

Adam Klein was his team’s best, taking countless intercept marks in defence, while Ben De Winter (three goals), Guy Vadas and Ryan Kagan (two) were the other multiple goal-kickers.

The Thirds and Jackettes both won their final practice matches over the weekend. Their respective seasons kick off this Sunday.

The club will host a triple-header this Saturday in the first home game of the season at Albert Park.

The seniors play Hampton Rovers at 2pm at Gary Smorgon Oval, with the reserves on before them at 11:40am, while across the road at Lindsay Hassett Oval the under 19s will face the Preston Bullants at 1pm.

The seniors game will be live broadcast from the first bounce on J-Air Radio 87.8fm.

Aaron Fetter
AJAX Amateur Football Club
Media & Communications Manager 

AJAX FC Season Preview

Finally after almost six months on the training track, the ‘real stuff’ has arrived and the AJAX Football Club are ready to tackle the competition with a renewed vigour in 2016.  

The club will be fielding an unprecedented five teams this year– seniors, reserves, thirds, under 19s (all in the Victorian Amateur Football Association) and a ladies team (‘Jackettes’-in the Victorian Women’s Football League), whilst the junior division will field 19 teams in the South Metro Junior competition.

Finishing in 5^th place in 2015 and narrowly missing out on finals for the third consecutive year, re-instated Senior Coach Marty Pask and his newly constructed coaching group (Brendan Devlin & David Harris) have put the club’s players through a gruelling yet focused training program.

“Marty and his coaching staff have had a big focus on fitness, strength work and the development of our game plan”, club President Ronnie Lewis told AJAX Media.

J-Air's On the Ball previewed AJAX's season with Marty on Monday night. Listen back here:

Almost 50 players attended the annual football camp in Torquay six weeks ago, where the purpose of the challenging training program and education sessions was to give the players “the opportunity to create an even stronger bond” amongst the group.

“The B-Grade competition will be a tough one this year but I am really confident our boys will be super competitive. We have an improved midfield group and some exciting youngsters who have trained really strongly all summer. Senior spots will have to be earned as the depth of the group is very good", Pask said.

Aside from a number of additions to the coaching, support group and committee this year, the club also welcomes back former best and fairest winners Warren Steinberg and Josh Ludski.

In comparison to 2015, the club experienced a less chaotic time on the injury front this pre-season.

“We’ll get guys back for the full year who had injuries last year, then it’s the development of the next tier down who we put a lot of game time into last season. I’m after them to start owning a position on the ground, stepping up and having a say in results”, Pask said.

Last weekend the club formerly capped off the pre-season with an impressive 12-point victory over Old Trinity, last season’s A-Grade runners up.

Read the match report here

“The wins are obviously what you get judged on, but for me it’s not so much that or the scoreboard. Any form is important going into the regular season but for me it has been about the continuity of our performances and getting some consistency, and getting guys up to match simulation speed and VAFA Premier B standard as best we can with the three games we played”, Pask said.

The coaching staff was able to have a look at the playing group in great detail over the three practice matches with a total of 27 players given senior opportunity, including Under 19s player Josh Baron.

There will be a strong link between the seniors, reserves and under 19s this season with the implementation of the game plan at these levels to facilitate a smooth transition to senior football.

“Age is irrelevant. The most important thing, is that they understand what we do and how they can help put this footy club on the right track. We need to look, find and get a good balance. If they are playing well they’ll get an opportunity at the highest level”, Pask said.

The Jackas opened their 2016 pre-season campaign with strong showings against Edithvale/Aspendale and Chelsea, both who play in lower divisions, however the club’s performance on the weekend against an A-Grade team showed ominous signs leading into round one.

“We put ourselves out there to be judged against a really good opponent. We certainly wanted to do that, it was intentional and deliberate playing them before round one. I wanted the guys to give a real good honest showing and I think we did that”, Pask said.

The reserves will be in the capable hands of Rob Paterson in 2016, with Matt Schmidt assuming an assistant coaching position.

Coming off a meteoric rise in 2015, the Thirds will once again be led by Daniel Slonim and Simon Jedwab who will be hoping their team can build on last season and win a final. 

Former player Ash Shenker has been entrusted with nurturing the club's exciting young talent, as coach of the Under 19s. 

Meanwhile, excitement has been high all summer for the club’s ladies team, the Jackettes, who are coming off Grand Final heart break in 2015. Tom Humphrey takes over the coaching reigns and comes to the club with a wealth of coaching experience, most notably in the VFL. 

“After a richly successful inaugural 2015 season, the "Jackettes" are looking fit and ready to take on the higher grades in the VWFL. With three of our players training in the AFL Academy squad over summer, a fitter and more skilled group of returning players and the addition of some gun recruits, season 2016 promises to be another exciting one for our Women's team”, Club President Ronnie Lewis said.

Finally, on senior expectations, the Head Coach was bullish about the club’s chances in 2016.

“I’d hope they are ready for finals. Any time you start pre-season training, you want to be thinking about finals. I don’t think you plan for anything but finals, I say that to the guys all the time.”

“You’ve got to be prepared to do the work and understand what it entails to play in a final in B-grade. We’ve looked at how we can get to that point. We are not content with finishing 5^th.”

“There would be nothing better than to give these guys an experience like finals.”

We hope to see you at the footy. Go Jackas!

Aaron Fetter
AJAX Amateur Football Club
Media & Communications Manager 

New-look Jackas topple Old Trinity

AJAX held off a strong Old Trinity outfit at Highett Reserve on Saturday, registering a 15.8 (98) to 13.8 (86) victory, entering the season proper with strong momentum and belief. 

Kicking with a four-to-five-goal wind, the Jackas made the most of their advantage, accumulating 11 scoring shots to four, taking a 27-point lead into quarter time. 

Adam Caplan's physicality and goal-sense was prominent with the utility banging through two goals in as many minutes. 

The home side stormed back into the contest with a dominant seven-goal-to-two second term to hold a five-point lead at the main break. 

The game turned AJAX's way in the third, thanks to some David Fayman brilliance. The star forward wrought havoc around goals, kicking three for the quarter. Old Trinity showed their class and slick ball-movement late in the term, bridging the deficit to just seven points at the final break. 

Old Trinity entered the fourth term with the wind advantage, however the Jackas adopted a defensive style of play that was inpenetrable-intercepting many of the opposition's forward thrusts. 

On the counter-attack, youngsters Justin Berkowitz and Zac Braun got themselves on the scoreboard, eventually securing a 12-point win.

David Fayman finished with four goals, while Josh Ludski floated forward to kick two. 

AJAX's new and revamped Media Department will be boundary side at every Senior game, all season, endeavouring to deliver unrivalled live match coverage via twitter (@ajax_footy) as well as a range of other club media interactions throughout the week (Stay tuned!) 

Coaches' Corner

AJAX Media caught up with some of the coaches after the weekend's results and asked them to review their team's performance. 

Reserves Coach Rob Paterson's Report:  

"Saturday presented the Reserves side with the opportunity to measure themselves against an 'A Grade' club. When we ran the ball, supported each other and played to our game style we looked like we could complete well. This did however break down at times and our defensive run was not as good as it could have been.

Some poor goal-kicking and critical turnovers from opposition pressure meant we weren't as close on the scoreboard as we might have been. All up another good hit-out and a game which will help us prepare for round one against quality opposition."

Under -19s Coach Ash Shenker's Report:

"The Under-19s continued to show positive signs in a stellar performance against Old Trinity. Despite key players missing through injury, the side put on immense pressure for four quarters and were damaging on the counterattack in an impressive win.

In the team's final hit-out before round one, it was fantastic to see so many players step up in the absence of others. Everyone has staked a claim to be picked for the season opener, suggesting that there will be great depth in the team on show throughout 2016."

Thirds Coach Daniel Slonim's Report: 

"We held an intra-club match on Sunday morning and it was pleasing to see 36 guys having a serious go. We tried eight new players and they all performed well. In particular, David Ellinghaus, Eli Solomon, Jonny Kaplan and ruckmen Yoni Steingiesser and Ben Meneham.

Others to impress were regulars such as Yossi Jedwab and Chaim Wellis-Stosser in defence while the Jones boys and Yehuda Gottlieb led from the front."

 Round 1 Matches 

Seniors vs Old Scotch at Camberwell Sports Ground, Saturday April 9 @2pm, Reserves @11:40am

Thirds vs Old Carey, Sunday April 17, venue/time TBC

Under 19s vs Old Haileyburians at Princes Park Caulfield, Saturday April 9 @9:20am

Jackettes vs Bayswater at Bayswater Oval, Sunday April 17 @12pm

Aaron Fetter
AJAX Amateur Football Club
Media & Communications Manager 

Jackas hold-off Chelsea challenge

AJAX's pre-season form across the board showed no signs of slowing on the weekend, as an undermanned Seniors side shook off a late challenge from Chelsea to record a 15-point victory in wintery conditions. 

With likes of Warren Steinberg, Josh & Jarryd Ludski and reigning Best & Fairest winner Adam Caplan on the sidelines, it was a perfect opportunity for the depth of the club to put their hand up for a potential round one berth. 

Kicking with a two-goal breeze, the Jackas kept the home-side scoreless in the opening quarter.

Chelsea responded in the second term, bridging the gap to 15 points at the main break.

There were a couple of bright spots for the Jackas before half-time with 19-year old Josh Baron kicking his first senior goal, while Dean Rotenberg continued his strong pre-season form, kicking his second.

Goals to David Fayman and Brandon Joel lengthend the advantage to 21-points at three quarter time.

With the conditions favouring the home-side in the final term, they converted their chances in front of goal, piling on the first three majors to trail by four points with six minutes remaining. 

Last gasp goals to Richie Simon and Asher Burstin put the result beyond doubt as the Jackas ran out winners 9.7 (61) to 7.4 (46).

Later on the Jackettes prevailed over a highly-fancied Rosebud, recording a 4.9 (33) to 3.1 (19) victory. Vanessa Mrocki led the way with two goals.

 AJAX's new and revamped Media Department will be boundary side at every Senior game, all season, endeavouring to deliver unrivalled live match coverage via twitter (@ajax_footy) as well as a range of other club media interactions throughout the week (Stay tuned!)

Coaches' Corner

AJAX Media caught up with some of the coaches after Saturday's results and asked them to review their team's performance.

Reserves Coach Rob Paterson's Report: 

"The AJAX reserves continued to develop and adapt to the game structure against Chelsea on Saturday. Welcoming back some players who missed the first match we also had the opportunity to try out some players in new positions. Once we got our running and support game going we put together some really good massages of play. The second half of the match saw Chelsea outscore us and give us a few areas to work on prior to the final practice match against Old Trinity. All up it was a pleasing performance and certainly gives us a lot to look forward to for 2016."

Under -19s Coach Ash Shenker's Report:

"The Under-19s continued their rapid development in a hard-fought victory over Chelsea. The young guns put some great pieces of play together and showed plenty of glimpses of what's to come in 2016. 

The Jackas will hold an intra-club session at Moorabbin this Saturday, before their final practice match on April 3 vs Old Trinity.

Aaron Fetter

AJAX Football Club

Media & Communications Manager 

The club is delighted to announce the appointment of our new Women's coach, Tom Humphrey.

Tom joins us with a wealth of playing & coaching experience.

He began his playing career with Box Hill in the VFA in the early eighties and has enjoyed tremendous success as a coach and assistant coach being involved in seven Premierships & ten finals campaigns in his 20+ years of coaching.

"I'm really excited to be working with the Ajax Women's team. I am aware of the success and the passion surrounding the group’s first year and will be working hard to continue their development and continued success", Humphrey said.

"Women's footy is on a big growth curve and I want our girls to take full advantage of the great opportunity that's ahead of us".

Over the last ten years, Tom has coached with Vermont, U15 EFL Representative team, Eastern Rangers in the TAC Cup and most recently as an assistant coach with Box Hill development side in the VFL. 

“This is going to be a fantastic challenge and something completely different to the stuff I’ve done before.”

“The girls are as keen to learn skills then any side I reckon I’ve ever coached.”

“It’s all about skill acquisition for the girls in the next couple of years.”

We are thrilled to welcome Tom into the Ajax community and have him working with the Jackettes.

Listen to Tom’s interview with J-Air’s ‘On the Ball’ program here.

Happy New Year to all!

Ronnie Lewis
President 

AJAX Junior Football Club's 2015 season has come to an official close with the hosting of the Club's Presentation Afternoon at National Theatre in St Kilda.  More than 700 players, family members, club sponsors and club supporters attended and reflected on a very successful 2015 for the club.  Congratulations to all the award winners and particularly to our 2015 Club Champion, Levi Teleshevsky.

All other Perpetual Award Winners can be found in the Junior Football, Honour Roll section of the website.

Pictured is Junior Club Life Member Graeme LeBransky, Club President Daniel Antman and 2015 Club Champion, Levi Teleshevsky.

Adam Caplan crowned AJAX Seniors Best and Fairest

The AJAX Senior Division formally brought to a close season 2015 on Thursday night at Bentleigh Club, with 25 people awarded for their success and contribution on and off the field. Fittingly, Adam Caplan capped off a stellar season, taking out the Michael Ritterman Seniors Best and Fairest, followed by John Brustman Golden Boot winner Jake Lew in second and older brother Brad Caplan who placed third.

List of all the winners from the club's annual presentation night.

2015 Ajax Best & Fairest Awards

Jeffrey Jankie President’s Trophy                                                            Mark Mitchell / Craig Joel

Mark Feldy Best Club Person Award                                                         Daniella Abraham 

Thirds Coach’s Award                                                                               Tamir Goldberg

Thirds 3^rd Best & Fairest                                                                            Jeremy Herz 

Thirds 2^nd Best & Fairest                                                                            Benji Jones

Thirds Best & Fairest                                                                                   Eli Adelist 

Womens Most Courageous & Determined                                                    Chelsea Fisher

Women’s Coach’s Award                                                                               Jess Marget

Women’s 3^rd Best & Fairest                                                                      Danielle Robinson           

Women’s 2^nd Best & Fairest                                                                       Tamara Epshtein

Women’s Best & Fairest                                                                                Toni Hamilton 

Reserves Coach's Award                                                                               Jamie Lewis       

Reserves 3^rd Best & Fairest                                                                           Roi Abraham

Reserves 2^nd Best & Fairest                                                                      Nadav Greenberger         

Barry Linde Reserves Best & Fairest                                                        Daniel Janover-Rocha

John Brustman Golden Boot Award                                                       Jake Lew                            

Richard Pratt & AJN Trophy for Supporters Best                                    Jake Lew

Seniors Best First Year Player                                                                 AJ Thurin           

Lionel Rosenberg Senior Coach's Award                                                 Adam Caplan

Daryl Cohen Seniors Most Courageous Player                                         Jarryd Ludski                   

Seniors Most Improved Player                                                                 Jordan Bade-Boon  

David Merkel Seniors Most Determined Player                                         Corey Jankie                    

Seniors 3^rd Best & Fairest                                                                         Brad Caplan

Seniors 2^nd Best & Fairest                                                                         Jake Lew

Michael Ritterman Seniors Best & Fairest                                                  Adam Caplan

Pre-season training for season 2016 will be held on a Tuesday and Thursday evening as well as a Saturday morning. The first session commences on Tuesday November 10. 

Adam Caplan Kicks for a Car

Our very own Adam Caplan capped off a breakout season on the VAFA Premier B Grand Final day, kicking successfully for a car. The competition was sponsored by Bayford Group who own South Yarra BMW one of the Club’s sponsors.

They ran a competition for the season that any club in the VAFA that referred clients to them would receive additional sponsorship.

At the end of the season the clubs that referred the most buyers would have an opportunity to kick for a new car.

AJAX referred the most clients and on the League’s Grand Final day Adam represented the Jackas and was given 3 opportunities to kick the footy from 50m into the back of a Ute.

Adam’s first shot into a strong wind was on line but fell five meters short.

His second shot landed on target and the excitement on the ground was pulsating.

The video has gone viral and has featured on a number of programs on Channel 7.

Adam also spoke with J-Air's On the Ball program. Listen back here: https://soundcloud.com/jairradio/adam-caplan-speaks-to-j-air-after-winning-a-car?in=jairradio/sets/on-the-ball

The Grand Final Edition of the Weekly Wrap is now available - Click here for this week's edition of the Weekly Wrap. Previous weekly wraps are available in the Weekly Wraps menu item in the Junior Football section.

Pictured is the back-to-back premiership winning U14 Comets team.

Jackettes fall at final hurdle

The Ajax Senior Football Division’s most successful team in season 2015 was the inaugural women’s team, the Jackettes. The girls played in the VWFL’s East Division Grand Final on Saturday night at Shepley Oval, but failed to overcome a much stronger Gippsland outfit, losing by 37 points.

A large Ajax crowd braved the conditions and made the trip to Dandenong. The girls were stunned in the opening quarter as Gippsland held them scoreless, taking a 26-point lead into the first break.

The Jackettes lifted their intensity in the second term and hit the scoreboard for the first time courtesy of a brilliant solo effort from Toni Hamilton.

The game continued its low-scoring trend with only three goals registered after half time, but unfortunately for the Jackettes they couldn’t make amends for their first quarter fade-out and eventually went down 2.2 (14) to Gippsland’s 7.9 (51).

Skipper Chelsea Fisher worked tirelessly in the midfield while Toni Hamilton kicked both of her team’s goals to finish second on the league’s goal-kicking table with 31 majors.

Earlier in the day the Seniors finished off their 2015 campaign with an inspired comeback win against Mazenod at Gary Smorgon Oval, ending the visitors run in Premier B.

The Jackas won 13.8 (86) to the visitor’s 11.8 (74), after trailing by two goals at three quarter time.

Jake Lew kicked a lazy seven goals, making it the sixth consecutive season an Ajax player has won the VAFA league goal-kicking award for their division.

Lew ended the season on 69 goals, ten more than his next rival. The result is just reward for his efforts over the last six years where he has often come runner-up to David Fayman who has claimed the previous five league goal-kicking titles.

It was a tight opening term with the wind slightly favouring the end Mazenod were kicking towards.

The visitors took a seven-point lead into the first break.

The Caplan brothers combined for the Jackas’ first with Brad finishing off nicely, but not to be outdone, Adam quickly showed his class, slotting his first of the afternoon from deep in the pocket.

Lew kicked consecutive goals before half time to give Ajax the lead for the first time of the afternoon.

Mazenod came out after the main break with a newfound confidence and turned the game on its head, piling on six unanswered goals to lead by as much as 29-points halfway through the quarter.

Some Adam Caplan brilliance and Lew’s fourth and fifth goal pulled the deficit back to 12 points.

Tensions flared after a distasteful response from certain crowd members when skipper Nick Marks suffered a head injury in a marking contest.

The incident seemed to spur the Jackas on as Marty Pask’s men found another gear, kicking five goals to one to eventually secure their tenth win of the season.

The Jackas finished on the same amount of points as Old Brighton in fourth but poor percentage ultimately kept them from finals action.

Earlier, the Reserves notched their fifth win of an otherwise disappointing season, trouncing Mazenod 25.13 (163) to 6.8 (44).

Speedy half forward Anton Ritterman kicked another bag of four, taking his season tally to 29, while Tom Rogers continued his strong finish to the year, also booting four in a dominant display from the midfield.

Vice-captain Ash Shenker kicked a goal in his final game while the Jackas boasted eight multiple goal-kickers, capping off an improved finish to the year winning three of their last four.

Aaron Fetter

Girls bound for Grand Final glory

Ajax’s women’s team the Jackettes have made history by securing a spot in the VWFL East Division Grand Final in just their first season, after they cruised past Rosebud 5.2 (32) to 9.9 (63) at Frankston Oval on Sunday.

The Club was represented in another final over the weekend, which unfortunately saw the Thirds (Blacks) overpowered by St Kevins to the tune of 36 points.

Meanwhile, the Seniors require a miracle to snatch a finals berth after they demolished a hapless Hampton outfit away from home. The win leaves them a game and 34% outside fourth spot.

A ten-goal masterclass from the Premier B goal-kicking leader Jake Lew and a best on ground display from David Fayman in the midfield led the Jackas to a 22.15 (147) to 11.12 (78) win.

The home side got the first on the board but Ajax responded quickly as Lew finished off some good work from youngster Brandon Joel.

Adam Caplan banged on two consecutive goals, both in typically impressive fashion. Lew was setup twice more and led the Jackas into quarter time with a 27-point lead.

It was a high-scoring second term with Ajax managing seven goals to the home side’s four.

Brad Caplan parked himself in the forward pocked and managed to hit the scoreboard on three occasions while Dave Fayman chimed in with two of his own.

The Jackas were relentless in the third term continuing to score freely while defenders Ben Kalmus and Daniel Cohen stood tall down back.

The home side kicked four final quarter goals but were out played on every line in a fiery finish that threatened to get out of hand.

Marty Pask’s men remained disciplined while Lew slammed on the final three goals of the game to finish with ten majors-a career-high.

The Jackettes broke the game open in the second term of their Preliminary Final against Rosebud, taking a commanding four-goal lead into half time.

Rosebud pressed hard in the third term but the determined Jackettes held firm to go into the final break with the momentum.

Five goals from Toni Hamilton sealed the 31-point win for the girls who play Gippsland in the Grand Final on Saturday night at Shepley Oval, Dandenong.

There was no such joy for the Thirds (Blacks) who were always behind the eight ball in their Preliminary Final against St Kevins, after a horror first quarter saw them seven goals behind. They staged a mini comeback in the third but were ultimately outclassed.

Eli Adelist finished with three majors including a goal of the year contender. The game also marked the end for club-favourite Joel Benjamin who announced his retirement after battling with injury.

The Reserves made it a successful trip to Boss James Reserve for the club recording their fourth win of a challenging season, holding off a persistent Hampton outfit to win 15.8 (98) to 10.9 (69).

Anton Ritterman moved inside the league’s goal-kicking top ten with three goals, while Daniel Janover-Rocha continued his strong 2015 form with another standout performance in the middle.

Olly Hoffman kicked two crucial late goals to secure the win for the Jackas.

Aaron Fetter

Pictured above is the victorious U16s team.

The U14 Comets have gone back to back and won the Premiership for the second season in a row, and the U16s have also won the premiership. Congratulations to both teams and all involved. More details to come.

The back-to-back premiership winning U14 Comets team.

The Finals Week 2 Edition of the Weekly Wrap is now available - Click here for this week's edition of the Weekly Wrap. Previous weekly wraps are available in the Weekly Wraps menu item in the Junior Football section.

Pictured is U14 Comets player Aaron Bryer kicking the ball deep into attack during the big Preliminary Final win for the U14 Comets last week. Bryer and his team mates are on target for back to back flags and will play their second Grand Final in a row this week. Details and game preview in the wrap.

The Finals Week 1 Edition of the Weekly Wrap is now available - Click here for this week's edition of the Weekly Wrap. Previous weekly wraps are available in the Weekly Wraps menu item in the Junior Football section.

Pictured is U11 Comets players Liam Eliau who celebrated his 50th game with a Semi Final win and now gets to play his 51st game in a Grand Final!

Tuesday, October 29, 1991 – 07:50am. The moment that changed Rob Paterson’s life forever. 

Rob, aged 25, was midway through a 40km training ride down the Hume Highway when he was sent flying from his bike by a semi-trailer travelling at 110km/h. Fifteen minutes later Rob was in an ambulance on his way to Wodonga hospital. Immediately, he was rushed to the operating theatre for an exploratory laparotomy.

One minute training for an upcoming triathlon, the next minute on the operating table with his life hanging in the balance.

Having heard he’d come off his bike, Rob’s wife soon arrived, expecting only a broken arm or leg. Instead she was welcomed by doctors preparing to operate, mere seconds away from opening Rob’s abdomen.

“He might not make it”, they told her.

Two days (and more than 20 units of transfused blood) later, Rob was flown to The Austin in Melbourne where he spent 4 weeks in ICU. He was placed in an induced coma, underwent dialysis because of his failing kidneys, was treated for collapsed lungs and had to be resuscitated on 3 separate occasions.

Rob’s injuries were devastating and numerous – a depressed fracture of his skull, 7 breaks in his pelvis, and a dislocated elbow causing severe nerve damage to his hand. Worst of all, Rob suffered vertebral fractures at the T5, T6 and T12 levels, the lowest of which damaged his spinal cord to the point where he lost movement of his legs.

Here was a successful triathlete that pushed his legs further than most would care to imagine. Now, he would never push his legs again.

Some might say Rob’s grit and determination can be traced back to his upbringing. As one of seven siblings raised in a housing commission area with an absent father, Rob became self-reliant from a very early age. Once a junior representative rugby league player, karate and surfing soon became his passion. At age 16, Rob moved out of home and ‘went off the rails’ for a period, leaving school in year 11 and eventually moving from Brisbane to the Gold Coast. There, Rob met his future wife, and the two of them moved to Melbourne.

Rob may have lacked a father figure in his formative years, but one man – his karate coach – made a lasting impression. He did this by introducing Rob to the sport of triathlon. Years later (and now living in Albury), Rob ran a gym and was competing in triathlon events. It was at this time that Rob’s fortunes took a turn for the worst, ‘waking up’ 3-and-a-half weeks after that fateful ride to find himself in The Austin ICU.

Whilst the road to recovery was extremely challenging, Rob never experienced an emotional breakdown. He chose to focus on short-term goals that would surmount to getting his life back on track, the first of which was getting out of rehabilitation as soon as possible. After 12 weeks on his back in an external pelvic fixator, Rob headed to the gym to regain lost strength. He flew through his rehabilitation program and was back home 3 months later, 9 months ahead of schedule.

Never one to indulge in self-pity, Rob chose not to surround himself with people of that mindset. With the great support of family and his innate determination to succeed, it wasn’t long before Rob was back training triathletes and getting himself fit in the gym and the pool.

That is not to say that adapting to life in a wheelchair wasn’t an emotional challenge. Rob admits to being horrified by his own reflection in shop windows the first time he went out in public in his wheelchair. Still today, Rob confesses that the accident isn’t something you ever get over fully. He misses the rush of adrenalin he used to experience in karate and other contact sports. He also loved to surf.

It wasn’t until 2 years ago that Rob returned to competitive sports. Having watched a friend compete in several triathlons, Rob set his sights on the IRONMAN event in Busselton, WA. The para-athlete version of the event features a 3.8km swim (unchanged), a 180km ‘bike’ leg in a modified hand-cranked cycle (the handcycle), and a 42.2km ‘run’ using a more conventional race chair.

He trained for over a year, pushing himself to his physical limits through exhausting sessions lasting as long as 6 hours. When the day finally came, Rob got off to a good start – completing the swim leg in one hour and twenty-four minutes. Unfortunately, partway through the bike leg Rob’s shoulder flared up. Knowing full well how important his arms were to every aspect of his life, Rob made the heart-breaking decision to pull out of the race.

Nevertheless, not even the disappointment of having trained so hard and failed could stop him. Little more than 6 months later Rob successfully completed his first full IRONMAN triathlon in Cairns, QLD. Being the qualifier event for the World Championships in Hawaii (and with only 1 spot on offer), Rob came second in his division, missing out by one position. Rob plans to return to Cairns later this year to again try to qualify for the World Championships.

“One way or another, I’m going to Hawaii… I’ve already bought the tickets.’”

 On the 14th of June, 2015, Rob Paterson won the Cairns IRONMAN in a time of 13 hours and 45 minutes. He will compete for the World Championship in Hawaii in October this year.

 By Jordan Bade-Boon

To support Rob in his quest to compete in Hawaii visit his mycause page at: https://www.mycause.com.au/page/105811/robshawaiianironman2015

The Round 15 and U10 Lightning Carnival Edition of the Weekly Wrap is now available - Click here for this week's edition of the Weekly Wrap. Previous weekly wraps are available in the Weekly Wraps menu item in the Junior Football section.

Pictured are U11 Comets players Ethan Carrick, Corey Wasbutzki and Jared Freedman in front of their 50th match banner in Round 15.