Simon Black

[Kenyon]

Perhaps this season the coach may use him more sparingly in mid-field as he would be dangerous up forward given his creativity & disposal skills. Judging by the game on Friday night we desparately need some class in the forward line. This season we cannot rely on the B&B for all the goals.

[b_lions16]

Agreed...Vossy said that we NEED some more avenues than goal rather than just kick to the Twins up forward. Blacky needs to be used as a midfielder, I still think, cuz no one's gunna cop the hardest tag and the opposition will have a free man roaming through the middle to cause trouble. Scott Harding definitely showed what we needed. And when we throw in Tom Rockliff, it'll be trouble. ;)

[b_lions16]

BRISBANE Lions coach Michael Voss says star midfielder Simon Black is not certain to play in Round 1 and may play fewer minutes than normal in the first month of the season.

Black, 29, had off-season ankle surgery and a broken wrist last month further hampered him in a pre-season in which he has been unable to play in the club's past two practice matches.
Voss will increase the load on skipper Jonathan Brown by asking him to play for three quarters of tonight's practice match against Richmond at Gold Coast Stadium.
But three good weeks of training for Black are important for Brisbane in the absence of Jared Brennan (quad strain) for at least the March 28 season-opener against West Coast at the Gabba and possibly the Round 2 match against Carlton at Docklands.
"Blacky hasn't played any games and he's not a certainty for Round 1," Voss said.
"He's probably on the high side of being ready, but he won't come in and play 100 minutes of AFL football. I think he has to gradually build up to that, (otherwise) at the back end of the year he'll get hurt.
"If anything it helps our group to have Blacky coming in and play in a bit more spurts - it might mature our group a bit because others have to stand up when Blacky's not the main guy for a few weeks.
"Blacky is unbelievably resilient, playing a standard of football you just don't expect from him. But we are not going to get him playing at the start and get some bloke on his back to carry around."
Voss said he was willing to give Brown more work in his second practice match, which will also top off the pre-season match program of Richmond star Ben Cousins.
"We'd probably look for 75 or 80 minutes from Browny, but he won't play the full game," Voss said.
"He played 50-odd minutes last week (against Melbourne in Cairns)."
Richmond coach Terry Wallace said Cousins would play a "full four quarters".
Gold Coast bid team chairman John Witheriff said the franchise's TAC Cup players would be presented before the game.

Gold Coast's under-18 team, coached by Guy McKenna, plays its first TAC Cup game next month.



Shit...

[worbsy]

Means Power will cop the had tag more often. He can handle it though. And either way, Magnet is ready to stand up ;)

Or give JayMac a run through the middle if Black is injured. Hope he plays rd 1 though.

[lions_girl_4life]

Oh lord. This isn't good. Blacky.... Blacky.... Please be fit... We won't have the worst midfield without him but he is one of our best. And if I am not mistaken, besides our glorious coach, our only Brownlow medallist.

[b_lions16]

If Blacky's not fit for round one, double-load to Magnet. ;)
I reckon Collier or JayMac through the middle, not the most ideal solution, and defenitely won't do it as good as Blacky copping the hardest tag, at least it's a replacement.

[lions_girl_4life]

Power will be our main midfielder if he doesn't play/

[wildlime]

If Blacky's not fit for round one, double-load to Magnet. ;)
I reckon Collier or JayMac through the middle, not the most ideal solution, and defenitely won't do it as good as Blacky copping the hardest tag, at least it's a replacement.

NOT Jmac, especially on last nights game. he was just slow, watching a lot, not getting involved, turnovers.

poor game.

[b_lions16]

Can't base JayMac just on one game wildlime. He might of been slow last night, but he's pretty good with the bounces through the middle.

[the_champ33]

You would think Black would be thrown straight into the seniors despite no match time during the pre season. He'll need 2-4 games under his belt to reach fitness and adjust.

[christicehurst]

If Black is not fit enough then Rich will really be thrown in the deep end with Magnet. A great test for the two.

[b_lions16]

Magnet can handle it...he sets himself double-standards. ;)
As for Rich, he's a bit inexperienced still and such a great test might get the better of him.

[lions_girl_4life]

And who knows, Richie might be great at handling pressure... Hopefully better than Redden.

[Kenyon]

Black will play, but will be rotated more often than usual. We need 6-8 players rotating through the mid-field, an area we were killed in last year, hence the lowest possession count in the comp. (or close to)

[b_lions16]

Black's in serious doubt to play Round 1 at this point Kenyon, he's hand sore bruising through his tendon and ankle cartilage.

[worbsy]

Black, Power, Johnstone, Risky, Magnet, Brennan, Rich... maybe Notting? THat's not a bad midfield brigade, but dammit I wish Lappin hung around for another year :(

[lion4life]

Imo - Brennan isn't back for round 1 but im fairly confident black will be there but will be rotated a lot more

[lions_girl_4life]

According to one of the other threads Blacky will be back thank god.

[b_lions16]

Blacky is EXTREMELY unlikely to play Round 1 according to the Courier Mail, first thing I read this morning. :D
And Notting...WTF...call me biased or whatever...but I want him OUT!!! OUT! OUT! OUT!

[worbsy]

Maybe 2007 was a fluke for Notting...

[lions_girl_4life]

BRISBANE Lions vice-captain Simon Black appears likely to miss the club's round one clash with West Coast at the Gabba after being struck down by gastroenteritis.
Black is one of 18 players at the club recovering from the bug after falling ill over the weekend.
The news sours the Brownlow Medallist's hopes of playing in Saturday week's season opener as he was already recovering from a broken hand sustained in February.
It means Black has a complete lack of match practice and assistant coach Justin Leppitsch was pessimistic about his chances of playing the Eagles.
"I would have thought he was highly unlikely to play," Leppitsch said on Wednesday.
"He hasn't had any match minutes. It's been done before not having match minutes and playing round one, and if anyone could do that it's Simon Black. But that's going to be heavily discussed on Monday."
Black, who also underwent post-season ankle surgery, suffered his fracture last month but was originally rated a good chance to play round one.
The Lions are keen to bring back their key onballer through the seniors rather than the reserves but much will depend on how they match up against the Eagles' midfield.
"I wouldn't have thought he would play reserves, I would have thought he'd play senior football for reduced minutes," Leppitsch said.
"It's a bit of a jigsaw puzzle with Simon, we'll look at those pieces on Monday."
Captain Jonathan Brown, Luke Power, Jamie Charman, Joel Patfull and Mitch Clark are others who have been affected by the bug.
Coach Michael Voss has quarantined his sick players, meaning close to half the squad sat out team training at Coorparoo on Wednesday.
"It's definitely a distraction but you would rather it this week then next," Leppitsch said.
"I don't think it's ever handy but if there was any week it could have come this is not a bad one."
The Lions have gained clearance from the AFL for ruckman Charman and full-back Daniel Merrett to play for Aspley in the QAFL on Saturday.
Neither Charman (knee) nor Merrett (quad) have played a pre-season game but are expected to line up against the Eagles if they get through the weekend's match against Morningside.
Draftee Daniel Rich, named as the favourite to win this year's NAB AFL Rising Star Award by the 16 club captains on Wednesday, is set to make his debut against West Coast.

Oh shit.... That f*cking bug!
Only good news out of this is that Merret and Charmo will be back, and the Stumps is favourite for the NAB Star.

[b_lions16]

The Gastro isn't bad and the effects only last for about 48 hours. Said that it is also EXTREMELY contagious. But about 10 of the 18 players struck down have fulll recovered. And Shannon Grant PLAYED WITH Gastro, so no reason Blacky won't..haha. ;)

[worbsy]

lol, Shannon Grant wouldn't have been at 100% though

If they have a week to get over it, it wont be a problem. Just hope the boys are keeping the fluids up. Don't want them all dropping weight.

[lions_girl_4life]

Well I'm not sure he could play. He has just gotten over a broken hand and now has gastro. This better not be a sign that it will be injury after injury for him this year.

[b_lions16]

http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/afl/story/0,27046,25216239-5016169,00.html
- He's declared himself fit. :)

[lions_girl_4life]

Oh thank god. I wish they would stop ginning him around, he's not playing because of his hand, he's playing, hw'a not playing because of that virus, he is playing... but I'm happy.

[christicehurst]

I'll believe it when he's running on the field.

[lions_girl_4life]

Or atleast when he is named in the actual squad.

[Jedstheman]

He will be playing next week I was readoing that story at 7a.m at work this morning.................... blacky is a lock:D

[lions_girl_4life]

Yeah, he likes to cause doubt, first the broken hand and second the gastro. Glad he is back on deck.

[worbsy]

Not to mention the ankle surgery on top of that!

He can't be in that good of a condition right now...

[lions_girl_4life]

He should be back in tip top shape by about Rd 4 or so.

[christicehurst]

Do we need three threads discussing Black's injury?

[worbsy]

Do we need three threads discussing Black's injury?

Well, we do need to show him the respect and attention he deserves... so I say yes!!! lol

[christicehurst]

Well, we do need to show him the respect and attention he deserves... so I say yes!!! lol

We should move these threads into his Player Profile. Should push Browny over as most popular thread lol

[christicehurst]

BROWNLOW Medallist Simon Black will line up for the Brisbane Lions when they host West Coast at the Gabba on Saturday night.

And despite being named as an emergency in Thursday's squad, ruckman Jamie Charman could still play.

Midfielder Black, 30 next month, has had to overcome groin, ankle and back injuries, a broken wrist and a bout of gastroenteritis to push for round one selection.

Coach Michael Voss said Black would be given as much time as he needed to be right for the game.

"He’s made himself available so there’s no reason why he wouldn’t play," Voss said from training at the Gabba on Friday afternoon.

After missing the Lions' four pre-season games, Black isn't expected to see out a full match.

"I’d like him to," Voss said. "Obviously he adds a fair bit of polish to your team but realistically you can’t expect him to come out and dominate.

"He has an influence on the game in a different way."

Charman played for AFLQ side Aspley last weekend and Voss said he would normally be considered in the Lions' best 22, but has had limited preparation because of a knee injury.

"With round one we’ve got to make sure that we’ve got everyone fit," he said. "The guys that we make sure that we put out there tomorrow we know are all going to be fit."

Voss has put extra pre-season work into Charman's understudy Matthew Leuenberger, who will shoulder a big workload against West Coast's All-Australian ruckman Dean Cox.

Mitch Clark will also be rotated between the forward line and ruck, but the Lions will miss the spring-footed Jared Brennan as another spare tall to fill in at the contests.

Brennan will sit out the next week or two with a quad strain, but the Lions' list is otherwise close to full strength.

Even premiership player Tim Notting was unable to break into this week's 22.

Of the players in the side, Voss hopes roving forwards Scott Harding, Rhan Hooper and Ash McGrath can offer options at the feet of targets Jonathan Brown and Daniel Bradshaw.

But with all three likely to spend time through the midfield as well, they need to preserve their energy.

"We need to be able to have a presence at ground level," Voss said.

"We’ve got the personnel that can do it so now we need them to chime in and kick a few goals.

"It’s a continual education. We’ve got to make sure that we get it right and we’ve got to get it right by tomorrow, so D-Day has arrived."

Anticipation is building ahead of the season opener, not least within Voss himself.

The 33-year-old goes from champion player to rookie coach, and he’s just as excited as his charges.

"Something’s coming tomorrow and there’s only one sleep to go," Voss said.

"The guys have been building up to this for quite a period of time so you obviously can’t wait.

"Whether you’ve played one game or you’ve coached 200, I think you just have a normal edge to you for round one.

"Realistically, it’s all about the first 10 minutes because after that you’re not too sure what’s going to happen," he added of his likely pre-match address.

http://www.afl.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/208/newsid/73897/default.aspx

[lions_girl_4life]

Great news! Hopefully he plays up to his full potential.

[christicehurst]

BRISBANE Lions midfielder Simon Black said he was ready to take on Carlton's much vaunted engine room if selected for Saturday night's match at Docklands.

In what the Brownlow Medallist described as a frustrating past two months, he was still trying to convince coach Michael Voss he was fully over a bout of flu that kept him out of Saturday's win over the West Coast Eagles.

Black broke his hand in a pre-season training mishap before being hit with a dose of gastro in the weeks leading up to round one, which then degenerated into the flu.

But with a week's training now under his belt, the vice-captain said he was ready to play.

“I've got to get through training this week but if he (Voss) selects me I'm right to go,” Black said.

“I wouldn't play a full game if I played, probably a half or something like that, but I'm just looking forward to getting back into it and having a run again.

“It's been a frustrating past couple of months really ... there's not much you can do about it though.”

Despite Carlton being moved into third favourite with the bookmakers to take out this year's premiership, Black would not be drawn into lavish praise of Saturday's opponent.

He was quick to complement their midfield, but said he found it funny how the media could have teams in the grand final one week and then as strugglers a week later.

The 29-year-old said it would be “nice to get one back” on Carlton after the Blues derailed the Lions' finals hopes last year with a huge final quarter turnaround in round 21 at the Gabba.

“They're a pretty exciting team and it'll be a tough game for us but we can go down there with confidence,” he said.

“They are on the way up though and they keep improving so you could certainly look to them to make the finals.

“It's a talented midfield. There are a lot of guys that can win their own ball and use it well and that's what you want from a midfield.

“They can distribute it and hit their targets well. Murphy and Gibbs have really improved in the last 12 months and of course there's Judd.

“It's certainly a big challenge.”

http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/74189/default.aspx

[worbsy]

He'd better bloody play. If it frees up Power and Johnstone to do what they did last week, the game would be in the bag.

[b_lions16]

Stick Black on Judd...problem solved. ;)

[christicehurst]

Stick Black on Judd...problem solved. ;)

We couldn't put Judd to shame like that in public?

[worbsy]

We need a tagger on JUdd. Black on Judd would be great to watch, but the rest of the game wouldn't fo us!

[b_lions16]

I was thinking Bunno on Judd...like he did with KerrBox but DeeKerr & Juddy are a different mould. I think to stick Shermo Judd first, he can managed CeeJay...but if that doesn't work then I reckon Bunno on Judd, and Shermo on Murphy. ;)

[worbsy]

I wouldn't like to risk Shermo on Judd from the start. Shermo would have liked getting a bit of the leather last week and may get too drawn into that aspect of the game instead of solely minding his opponent. And he had about 50% accuracy with his disposals... bloody Shermo. Showed so much potential, is delivering so little of it now.

[lions_girl_4life]

I think this will be our main delima tonight. If we can find someone to keep Juddy quiet, it would keep us a lot closer to them.

[b_lions16]

I think this will be our main delima tonight. If we can find someone to keep Juddy quiet, it would keep us a lot closer to them.
He was crap for the 1st quart...and he just exploded.

[lions_girl_4life]

Juddy actually made loads of elementary mistakes in the first quart...

[b_lions16]

Like shanking kicks out on the full, missing easy marks, etc. :D
Blacky got 28 REALLY needed possessions last night, once he finds his feet, he'll dominate. :)

[lions_girl_4life]

Isn't it funny how Blacky gets 28 possies and we say, oh he will be back at best in no time but if most other players got 28 we would be going, as Vossy puts in, 'YOU LITTLE BEAUTY!' :D

[b_lions16]

http://bigpondvideo.com/afl/124828
- Simon Black on BLTV - Loss after Geelong. ;)

[b_lions16]

SIMON Black, the Brisbane Lions premiership star with the 96 per cent attendance record, reckons he is running into form to deliver a big dividend for coach Michael Voss in the second half of the season. The tenacious Black, who was set back by a pre-season marred by an ankle injury and a broken wrist, said he was heartened by the current absence of wear-and-tear injuries and hoped his best football was in front of him in 2009.

Voss said he did not want to ask too many minutes of Black in the first two months of the season to ensure his midfield star finished the year strongly.

"I've played two months of footy so I should have my match fitness now. I'm getting there," Black said in the countdown to Saturday's Gabba clash with Carlton.

"I feel like I'm probably not running as well as I can. When you don't have a pre-season under your belt, you don't have quite the fitness levels you've had in the past and you can push through the tougher patches in games when you have that base.

"But it's great not to have a sore groin or sore ankles after a game. I've been rapt the past couple of weekends that I haven't been sore."

Starting with Brisbane's first premiership season in 2001, Black, in the punishing in-and-under role, has managed to play 191 of his past 199 games.

Three of the seven games which he missed in that period were due to suspension at the start of the 2005 season.

Black played 85 minutes in Brisbane's win over North Melbourne last Saturday and his season average of 24 possessions per game is due to a haul of between 23 and 28 disposals in his nine matches.

Brisbane can retain fourth place heading into the second half of the season with a win over Carlton, one of seven clubs a game behind them.

A win would also put into context how far the Lions have come since their shattering round 21 loss to the Blues last year. http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/afl/story/0,27046,25582580-5016181,00.html
(http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/afl/story/0,27046,25582580-5016181,00.html)

[worbsy]

Brisbane's best on ground for mine on the weekend. He was unreal, at his best. Found a lot more space than usual!

[lions_girl_4life]

There are a few games where he has a modest game but none very bad. Then he blitzs out and is BOG again, he is back to near his best.

[worbsy]

The only time he really struggles is up against Ling and Kirk. And there's no shame in that!
He plays a lone hand in our midfield a lot of the time, and he's shone for many, many years now, week in, week out.
He is a champion.

[dannigirl lionheart]

On sunday, on the footy broadcast on the radio... it might have been on the abc grandstand, David Parkin said that Blacky has slipped to a 'B' grade player.

I totally think that comment was unfounded, Blacky has had a brilliant season so far

[b_lions16]

On sunday, on the footy broadcast on the radio... it might have been on the abc grandstand, David Parkin said that Blacky has slipped to a 'B' grade player.

I totally think that comment was unfounded, Blacky has had a brilliant season so far
He's past his prime...hardly worth a 2nd round pick L4L...lol....but still an absolute champ.
Should run back into form in the latter half of the season...has 2 BOG Games under his belt. ;)
Should be All-Aussie short-listed.

[dannigirl lionheart]

he is past his prime... but his not a 'B' grade player by any means

[worbsy]

David Parkin is an idiot then!

He'd be going alright in the Brownlow yet again, Blacky. His last few weeks have been sublime. He's been getting more space and using the ball better, at least from what I've seen.

He beat Sewell on the weekend, and if that doesnt make you an A-grader, I dont know what does!

[worbsy]

Calling him below an elite A-grader is an absolute insult, and one that I take personally!

[dannigirl lionheart]

Calling him below an elite A-grader is an absolute insult, and one that I take personally!

Same! I nearly threw the radio when I heard it! :mad:

All his career, Blacky has not had the rcognition he has deserved

[christicehurst]

Three flags, Brownlow, yep he's past it...

[b_lions16]

Three flags, Brownlow, yep he's past it...
That's why he's UNDERRATED...lol. :D
Last big achievement was back in 02 where he got the Norm Smith...but 2nd in the Brownlow for 2 consecutive years tells alot. :)

[christicehurst]

He needs another Brownlow! or a flag.

[dannigirl lionheart]

He came so close to a Brownlow last year, thats what puzzled me about the comment the most... I mean, what more can the guy do to prove himself?!

[Kenyon]

Happy to let everyone think he's past it - but unfortunately the ones who count know he aint past it & that 15 other coaches.

Parkin would be eating his words after the last 2 weeks & as a commentator he should have done a bit more research. Black had no pre-season so it was always gonna be a slow start.

Fuckwit Parkin, immerse yourself in lighter fluid.

[Jedstheman]

Calling him below an elite A-grader is an absolute insult, and one that I take personally!
I truely couldn't have said that better myself Worbs I see Parkin on the street I will go Albert Proud on his arse;)

[lions_girl_4life]

He was at his best a few years ago but he is still a fan-bloody-tastic player that is unreal to watch..

[worbsy]

I truely couldn't have said that better myself Worbs I see Parkin on the street I will go Albert Proud on his arse;)

Haha, as will I. Parkin probably wishes he had Vossys job right now :)

[worbsy]

Another awesome game from Blacky. He'll be a surprise for some in the Brownlow... not for us though. 2nd the last 2 years doesnt go unnoticed for Brisbane fans. Such a champion.

[b_lions16]

Clearance Work is masterful from Black...had about 6, I think

[lions_girl_4life]

Masterful is the exact word I needed.

[Jedstheman]

Voss praises milestone man Black

Posted July 27, 2009 19:35:00
http://www.abc.net.au/reslib/200803/r236290_951286.jpg (http://www.abc.net.au/reslib/200803/r236290_951293.jpg)Simon Black will play his 250th AFL match against the Pies on Saturday (file photo). (AAP: Bradley Kanaris)


Brisbane Lions coach Michael Voss has praised Simon Black ahead of the slick midfielder's 250th AFL match.
Black will chalk up the milestone against Collingwood at the MCG this Saturday.
Voss says the Brownlow medallist is a very focused individual.
"The strength of Simon Black has been is that he's never ever looked that far back, he's never ever looked that far forward," he said.
"What he knows and what he's done is a week-to-week proposition and what he has to do and that's what gets him up every single week.
"While people are patting him on the back, he just gets on with doing the business."
Voss said his sixth-placed team is relishing the opportunity to take on the fourth-placed Magpies.
He said the Lions have the chance to prove they are legitimate contenders for the flag.
"For us I think it's probably just that we look forward to being able to go down there and play on the MCG," he said.
"We're playing against a good team and we know we are going to get a great crowd and the pressure is going to be right up.
"They've been able to play at that intensity and we hope to match them."

[b_lions16]

Voss on Simon Black’s 250-game milestone

“The strength of Simon Black is that he has never looked that far back or that far forward. What he knows and what he’s done is a week-to-week proposition. That’s what gets him up every single week.”

“While people are patting him on the back, he just gets back to business.”

“He has a massive list of achievements and while it’s a good CV, he doesn’t think about it - he just goes and does it.”

“He also lives by the philosophy that he wouldn’t be able to do it without the bunch of team-mates around him. He understands that principle more than anyone.”

“The most important game for Simon Black right now is his 250th and after that the most important game for him will be his 251st. He treats every single week like a true competitor.”

“I think that he’s been fairly underrated throughout his whole career - and that’s saying something about a guy who is so highly rated.”

“In the case of the Brownlow Medal, I think the umpires in this instance have gotten it right.”

[christicehurst]

This thread should be high on highlights and thanks to the real champion of the game. There's Judd and Ablett as elite and then up in the true legends is Simon Black.

[lions_girl_4life]

Too bloody right. I would rate Blacy, ocerall, as better than Judd or Ablett. He is very consistent never has a shocker and is loved by anyone who calls themselves a Lions fan.

[christicehurst]

He's won everything you can think of. The only thing he might win again is a 4th flag. Can't see a Brownlow with his limited years left and other players rating better then him.

[Kenyon]

He's won everything you can think of. The only thing he might win again is a 4th flag. Can't see a Brownlow with his limited years left and other players rating better then him.

This bloke has another 3-4 seasons in him. He is an elite distance runner, a superstar footy player & the most decorated player in the game. Dont worry about Brownlows, he wants another flag. We are 2-3 seasons away from giving that a real shake. S Black will retire a 4 time premiership player.

[b_lions16]

Okay...I don't wanna be a douche...but Judd is on par with Black. He's got a Brownlow, a Premiership Medal, Best Captain, Multiple AA's, etc. He's missing a Norm, but he won't get it cuz he plays for Carlton and they suck. ;)
Not taking anything away from Blacky, true champ of the footy...Congrats on his 250th. Agreed Kenny, too. He's got 3-4 more seasons left in him...and he'll crack the 300...and tell Marcus Ashcroft to look out on his Record. :D

[christicehurst]

blions = douche!

[b_lions16]

TWELVE years ago a skinny 18-year-old named Simon Black cried for the best part of two hours in the Perth home of his parents Ray and Fran.
While being drafted might have been his dream since he was old enough to remember, Black desperately craved his new home to be West Coast, where one of his idols in Chris Mainwaring played.
Instead, he had been chosen with pick 31 in the 1997 national draft by Brisbane, a team across the other side of the nation and, what's more, one with an inglorious past.
For a very close-knit family (Black has an older brother Ben), it was the worst possible scenario. The family unit was being torn apart and there wasn't a dry eye in the house.
The attitude change came that same day. Simon decided his future had been determined.
He packed up his tears and woe, walked out of his bedroom and told his parents the decision had been made and it was time to get on with life.
Those who know him well say he never looked back from that moment, even if it's fair to say some at the Eagles may have. With the two picks they had before Black, West Coast used No. 12 on Jaxon Crabb and No. 13 for Callum Chambers, neither of whom had any real impact.
Moving for the Black family wasn't totally foreign given they were in Mt Isa on an extended trip around Australia in 1979 when Simon was born, making him birthplace partners of Greg Norman and Pat Rafter.
Black, or Simon the Likeable as he's sometimes known for his easy manner, was an outstanding junior sportsman, excelling at soccer, basketball, endurance running and Australian rules.
In soccer he was a scoring machine with his deadly left-foot, in basketball a player who consistently stripped opponents of the ball in front of their disbelieving eyes. Aussie rules, well, he was handy, as you would imagine, but it was in running that he first reached elite level.
Educated at Corpus Christi College and Aquinas, at age 12 Black ran third for WA in national under-age championships in Canberra over 800m, and at 14 was running a tick over two minutes for the same distance when winning bronze for his state in Malaysia at a junior championship.
A year later he gave running away, preferring the team aspect of football and hampered because of Sherman's disease, a spinal problem caused through lack of bone growth that caused him to miss nearly a year of sport.
When he got back on the playing field, it was as a footballer with the East Fremantle Colts when he was spotted by then Brisbane recruiting person Kinnear Beatson.

Like most who have seen Black since, Beatson was immediately taken with his cleanliness.
"He was so quick and clean in his decision-making, particularly by hand. But there are other things that come into it, such as his character and his competitiveness," Beatson said this week as Black prepared to play his 250th AFL game.
"You only have to meet Simon once to know he is as decent as any player you will meet. I realised it when going to the home of his parents Ray and Fran, a really good family.
"Simon was very respectful, but it also came through that he was very driven. When he first got to Brisbane he actually over-trained.
"And he identified Craig Lambert as the best one-on-one player at the club and as such wanted to be opposed to him. Lamby beat him for a fair while until Simon completely turned it around."
Black may have been a skinny 68kg when Beatson first watched him but he was good enough to be selected in the 1997 under-18
All-Australian team. So how did he get through to 31 in the draft?
"It was a time when the game was all about speed and Simon didn't test brilliantly quick over 20m. That was the only slow on him.
"But Daniel Rich last year had a poor beep test and look how that has turned out," Beatson said.
For Beatson, Black belongs in the absolute top group of midfielders: "When he finished his career he will sit comfortably alongside Greg Williams for elite disposal by hand and foot on both sides of the body."
Black is one of the select Brisbane players that Jason Akermanis still calls a friend, the pair sharing in the trio of premierships in 2001-2003 and winning back-to-back Brownlows in 2001-02.
In 2003 Black won a Norm Smith medal for best afield in the Grand Final, ahead of Akermanis, who kicked five goals.
"I remember him coming to the club, this skinny kid with overly long jet-black hair. We had a running session where Shaun Hart would always dominate because he was just a wonderfully gifted runner," Akermanis said yesterday.
"But there was Simon, going
toe-to-toe with our best and keeping up with him over 400 and 800m. So we knew he could run, but could he play? We knew that after the first couple of practice games he could.
"He has become as decorated as any player in the game. Dangerous on either side over 35-40m with low, flat and quick passes.
"But because he's in Brisbane he doesn't quite get the same kudos as others. When he retires you will never hear of him again. He'll get into a business with his Dad, who is a great bloke, and disappear.
"He has his surfing, which he loves, and his easy-going life outside football, but get him on a playing field and he's as competitive as anyone you will meet."
Black's other great asset from a club viewpoint is his durability. Since playing nine of 22 games in his debut season of 1998, Black has played in 240 of 256 matches.
St Kilda's Robert Harvey spent a decade watching Black from close quarters, and when reaching for comparisons goes straight to the top.
"Simon Black's ability to win it in close is almost unparalleled in the game . . . maybe Chris Judd is the closest," Harvey said this week.
"I was there on Grand Final day in 2003 when he won the Norm Smith Medal and picked up 39 possessions. When was the last time a player did that in an AFL Grand Final?
"But to describe him just as an inside player is unfair. His speed is a little under-rated given he can break clear and distribute it on either foot to (Jonathan) Brown and (Daniel) Bradshaw. He is double-edged in that he has all bases covered."
And the man himself? Black, 30, is one of those growing band of players who prefers to speak little and play a lot.
We all have memories indelibly etched of a sublime Black on-field move, but try to think of one memorable thing he's said and you will struggle.
His press conference this week was more of the same, littered with "not in my wildest dreams did I think I would play 250 games" and "it's a big milestone but this weekend is all about getting a win against a big club in Melbourne".
Get the drift - a quiet man whose devil only emerges once he enters the field of play. So should he join the list of great to have won two Brownlows, don't expect too much in the way of words.
Just enjoy him for what he is and if you can get double figures, have a few gold coins each-way on the medal. http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/afl/story/0,27046,25863600-5016181,00.html

[worbsy]

Judd is certainly more explosive than Black, but Blacky is the MASTER of the quick handball, and his fast decision making.

Simon Black is also as consistent and durable as they come. He's a true champion, and everyone knows it.

If he played for a Melbourne club, he'd be publicly declared the equal of Judd and Ablett (at least in our premiership years!).

[Balony_pony16]

Congrads Black on 250 glorious games...love you mate

[sweegs]

Sorry Black. It was supposed to be a big moment for your footy career but the night was rubbish. Perhaps it'll go better for your 300th?

[worbsy]

At least we get to pay a bit of attention to our superstar, Simon Black. 250 of the best games I've seen from a player. True champion, but deserved a win.

It will be a sad, sad day when he decides to end his career.... he has at least a few years left though, I don't care about his age. He is consistently our best midfielder, despite copping the hard tag every week. He can do what Robert Harvey did, his he has certainly shown the durability over the years.

[b_lions16]

Agreed that it will be a sad, sad, sad day for football when Simon Black retires...I don't see him doing a coaching gig or even a commentary gig...so it will be the end of Simon Black for everyone in the Football World. Maybe he could do a Assistant Coaching gig?
He can certainly do what Robert Harvey did, play till he was nearly 40 odd. He's played 250 of a possible 264 games over 12 odd years so the durabillity is certainly there. ;)

[worbsy]

And noone can argue that his form doesn't warrant playing on! He is still among the best of the elite midfielders in the comp this year, regardless of age.

[lions_girl_4life]

He still has a couple of years left in him I reckon. I can see him involved with the club, if he doesn't take up an Assistant Coach role at another club. But too be honest I am having a very hard to imagine Blacky in any other teams colours. Maybe and Assisitant position with us? I don't want to lose him even when he does retire.

[worbsy]

When he retires, he'll give up footy. He won't be a coach of any form in the AFL. There was an article about it the other day!

[lions_girl_4life]

I can't even imagine him coaching, I could've with the Assistant but not really. I remember reading a while back that he would most likely go into banking or something and that he has already brought a bank.

[b_lions16]

He's gunna do a building/carpenter thing with Notting & Johnstone...it was in the paper!

[christicehurst]

Poor Black and we served up that fast food performance - hot one half and cold and tasteless the second half

[lions_girl_4life]

Couldn't have said it better myself Chris.. :(

[b_lions16]

Poor Black and we served up that fast food performance - hot one half and cold and tasteless the second half
Funniest thing I heard all day...dish up another one! :D

[lions_girl_4life]

I didn't know we had a name for those sorts of games. "Fast Food Performance" definately has potential.

[lions_girl_4life]

Another brilliant game from Blacky. Was at the bottom of every contest, and never gave up. Deserves his props just for that.

[Jedstheman]

Best on Ground for mine not fair that he has to carry the team each week this champion deserves more from some teamates.

[b_lions16]

37 touches...Vintage Black. :D

[blackyismyboy]

Can you fault this guy for anything? THIS is the reason he's my favourite player. He works hard EVERY week.

Also heard him on the radio before the game - bloody nice bloke too!

[lions_girl_4life]

When I met him after a training session, he was very nice about everything, so was Browny, Vossy and Merret

[b_lions16]

IS Simon Black the most under-rated footballer in the game? Lions coach Michael Voss recently made the point that despite his former teammate's overflowing trophy cabinet, he somehow never receives the credit he deserves outside of Queensland.
This week he was proved right.
It is a good thing a rival Melbourne newspaper doesn't sell too many copies here in the Sunshine State because there would have been a riot after Nathan Buckley listed his top 10 midfielders and left Black out.
We grudgingly accept that the Melbourne-centric football media, of which Buckley is a part, have always ignored anything that is not happening right under their noses.
But the former Collingwood champ is also a senior coach-in-waiting, once he takes the reins with the Magpies he'll need to cast his gaze wider.
Because after reading his top 10 he either doesn't watch the Brisbane Lions or is still scarred by Black's 39-possession Norm Smith Medal winning grand final performance against Buckley's Magpies in 2003.
Buckley's top 10 includes some very good footballers.
They are (in order) Joel Selwood, Chris Judd, Gary Ablett, Dane Swan, Lenny Hayes, Leigh Montagna, Paul Chapman, Brendon Goddard, Adam Goodes and Sam Mitchell.
Black's three premierships, Brownlow and Norm Smith medals, and multiple All Australian and club championships place him above every player on that list except possibly Goodes who has claimed multiple "Charlies".
And it is not as though his best is behind him - he ran second in the last two Brownlow' and there is an argument he was robbed last year.
It constantly amazes me sitting in press boxes around the country how often I hear the exclamation, "Gee Black's having a good game today".
I watch him every week and I struggle to recall too many bad ones.
His skipper Jonathan Brown is the competition's most imposing and influential big forward, but he is the first to admit much of his success has to do with the work Black does up the ground.
"It was a very surprising omission, he has been a great player and the model of consistency," Brown said.
"He's so resilient even though he gets tagged every single week. He's been a great player in a great side and a great player in an ordinary side."
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/afl/story/0,27046,25961265-5016169,00.html

[blackyismyboy]

He really is one of the most under-rated players. I was really surprised that he didn't make it unto Buckley's list. But I also wasn't really.

[lions_girl_4life]

Buckley is a DH, Blacky is definately in the top ten players of the league

[blackyismyboy]

OUTRAGED Lions coach Michael Voss has demanded the AFL appoint a Queensland-based selector on the All-Australian panel after Simon Black was again snubbed for the all-star squad. The All-Australian selectors clearly did not learn from last year's humiliation when Black did not make the side but went on to finish second by a solitary vote to Western Bulldog Adam Cooney in the Brownlow Medal count.

Black could not even make the 40-man squad (http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/afl/story/0,27046,26013357-5016181,00.html), just as in 2007 when he was tied for second in the Brownlow count behind Geelong's Jimmy Bartel.

Voss suggested former Lions forward Alastair Lynch would be the perfect addition to the selection panel because of his role as a commentator on pay-television broadcaster Foxtel.

The All-Australian selection panel comprises Victorians Andrew Demetriou (chairman), Adrian Anderson, Kevin Bartlett, Gerard Healy, James Hird and Robert Walls; West Australian Glen Jakovich and South Australian Mark Ricciuto.

"He is the most capped player in the game," Voss said.

"Maybe he is a victim of his own success, perhaps there is an expectation that he has another level.

"It is hard to get another level when you have achieved what he has been able to achieve and play at the standard he has. He duly delivers every single week.

"I am shocked."

Voss stopped short of criticising the current panel but said it was clearly time the northern states had a permanent resident on the panel.

He wondered if there was a perception that Black's best was behind him because it was now six years since he had won the 2002 Brownlow but said anyone who watched him week in, week out would agree he was playing as well as ever.

"I haven't seen any decline," he said. "It is a tough job and there is a lot of games to go over, it is time that we do have someone who is regularly seeing him every week and I can't think of anyone better than Alastair Lynch."

Richmond legend Bartlett defended Black's omission and said the midfield selection was challenging for his panel.

"Simon is highly rated by the panel but the difficult thing is they have changed it into three categories - forwards, backs and midfield and you can only pick a certain number of each," Bartlett said. "In the midfield we could pick 16 players but that had to include four ruckmen. He may have had a great year but the competition was very strong as well."

"He is unlucky not to be in the top 40 as well as the top 16. You can't say he is not in the top 40 players in the country because of the way the team is selected. He may well be the 17th or 18th best player."

Black has been such an exceptional performer no current player has more career Brownlow votes than his 142, with Adelaide's Andrew McLeod and Richmond forward Matthew Richardson closest with 134.

http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/afl/story/0,27046,26018199-5016169,00.html


I don't know why we don't have a Queenslander on the selection panel already. Oh wait, yes I do. ;)

[Hayley]

I don't know why we don't have a Queenslander on the selection panel already. Oh wait, yes I do. ;)

Tassie doesn't have someone on the selection panel either - we are an AFL state and have a lot of Tasmanians in the league. So I don't see QLD getting one until at least we do. LOL

[blackyismyboy]

Tassie doesn't have someone on the selection panel either - we are an AFL state and have a lot of Tasmanians in the league. So I don't see QLD getting one until at least we do. LOL

Yeah but Tassie doesn't have a team so I can see why they aren't on the selection panel.

[Jedstheman]

Blacky went threw a training session on Wed and is at about 60% fingers crossed.......Don't really care about the AA Snub we all no he is a class act.

[christicehurst]

He's not AA class, he's an AAA class gun!

[Kenyon]

Blacky went threw a training session on Wed and is at about 60% fingers crossed.......Don't really care about the AA Snub we all no he is a class act.

He will need to be 100% against those blokes, they are all quick, fit & good.

[lions_girl_4life]

AA is a joke now. Mitchy and Browny deserve to be in there but how can u do so well in the Brownlow which is virtually a midfielders award and still not get a god damn AA nomination atleadt

[blackyismyboy]

The AA selectors are going to be shitting themselves if Blacky polls well again in the Brownlow.

[lions_girl_4life]

He has consistently been in our best so that is a very good chance.

[Kenyon]

I reckon he's done more grunt work than ever b4, which may count against him in winning votes.

[Jedstheman]

Season Highlights
http://img.footywire.com/afl/img/dot.gif37 disps (15 kicks 22 hballs) and 3 marks in Rd 20 18-pt loss to the Western Bulldogs (http://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ft_match_statistics?mid=4226) at the Gabba (15 Aug 2009)
http://img.footywire.com/afl/img/dot.gif27 disps (13 kicks 14 hballs) and 7 marks in Rd 18 40-pt loss to Collingwood (http://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ft_match_statistics?mid=4178) at the MCG (1 Aug 2009)
http://img.footywire.com/afl/img/dot.gif33 disps (16 kicks 17 hballs), 6 marks, 4 tackles and 2 goals in Rd 15 43-pt win over Geelong (http://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ft_match_statistics?mid=4275) at the Gabba (11 Jul 2009)
http://img.footywire.com/afl/img/dot.gif29 disps (11 kicks 18 hballs), 3 marks and 4 tackles in Rd 13 55-pt win over Melbourne (http://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ft_match_statistics?mid=4203) at the Gabba (27 Jun 2009)
http://img.footywire.com/afl/img/dot.gif29 disps (13 kicks 16 hballs) and 5 tackles in Rd 12 42-pt win over Hawthorn (http://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ft_match_statistics?mid=4194) at Aurora Stadium (14 Jun 2009)
http://img.footywire.com/afl/img/dot.gif33 disps (14 kicks 19 hballs), 5 marks, 6 tackles and a goal in Rd 11 6-pt loss to Carlton (http://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ft_match_statistics?mid=4249) at the Gabba (6 Jun 2009)
http://img.footywire.com/afl/img/dot.gif27 disps (12 kicks 15 hballs), 4 marks, 7 tackles and a goal in Rd 9 16-pt loss to St Kilda (http://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ft_match_statistics?mid=4237) at Etihad Stadium (24 May 2009)

[lions_girl_4life]

37 Disposals in a loss? Pure class and ripped off not to be in AA

[blackyismyboy]

Damn straight. This is why I'm all for there being a Qld person on the selection panel. C'monnnnn Lynchy. :D

[b_lions16]

Understatement...ABSOLUTE FUCKING BULLSHIT NOT TO BE AA...Seriously.
I'll tell ya who Black shoulda been there instead of someone like Fletcher...

[b_lions16]

Simon Black 12.00 11.00 19.50
Inside and outside midfielder superstar and perennial vote-hog (45 in the last two seasons) who defied early season injury concerns to yet again put together a stellar year. With only Brown and Clark likely to be competitors for Lions votes, shapes as a good each-way chance again.
Best games: a driving force in most of the Lions' 12 wins, but also monstrous in the narrrow round 20 loss to the Bulldogs, when he won 37 disposals. Down on touches against Freo in round 16, he laid an incredible 13 tackles.
Knock: interrupted pre-season could cost him early votes; when effectively tagged, he is completely blanketed, which happens a little more often these days. http://www.realfooty.com.au/news/rfnews/brownlow-punting/2009/09/08/1252201209988.html?page=2

[b_lions16]

Simon Black: Will be in the top three on best and fairest night and should again give next week's Brownlow a mighty shake. Black remains one of the competition's very best midfielders. Rating: 9

[worbsy]

And yet misses even the AA SQUAD! What a joke.

You're an absolute champion, Blacky. Never retire!

[b_lions16]

He'll come close in the Brownlow too. Win it just to shove it up the AA Squad Committee. The Brownlow Medalist wasn't All-Australian! :D

[worbsy]

Well Swan was a supposed AA "Forward"... says it all.

[blackyismyboy]

BRISBANE Lions midfielder Simon Black believes the club's premiership credentials have been boosted by the signing of reigning Coleman Medallist Brendan Fevola.

The 2002 Brownlow medallist was in Palm Cove yesterday relaxing at the Sea Temple courtesy of winning last season’s Courier Mail Lions Player of the Year award.

Black was making the most of his time in the Far North with the Lions to start pre-season training next week.

The most notable new face on show at the Gabba will be Fevola.

The controversial full-forward was traded to Brisbane last month after a series of indiscretions at former club Carlton.

While he has not officially been introduced to Fevola, Black is confident the controversial footballer can adjust to the Lions culture.

"I had a chat to him on the phone last week and from all reports he’s a really good guy but he’s got himself into trouble a couple of times as everyone knows," he said.

"He’s a nice guy but as important he’s a terrific footballer. He’s going to add a fair bit to our side, especially if he stays injury free and if he stays in good form."

While Fevola’s arrival is a bonus for the Lions, Black said he and the club would miss departing forward Daniel Bradshaw.

"It’s very disappointing to be losing Braddy. It would have been nice to keep Braddy and Fevola and (Jonathan) Brown in that forward line.

"I played for 12 years with Braddy. He’s a real modest down-to-earth guy with the way he goes about his business.

"He’s a great clubman and it’s a shame he won’t be there."

One man who is returning is coach Michael Voss, who guided the Lions to sixth on the AFL ladder last season in his first year in charge.

Black, who played alongside Voss in the side’s historic run of premierships between 2001-03, said Voss had adapted to the pressures and demands of coaching superbly.

"He’s got a really good footy brain and gives you a real sense of pride when you do a good job," he said.
"He’s taken to coaching really well.

"All the guys from the oldest to the youngest love having him around the place.

"This year we won one final then got beaten quite badly. I think our next goal is to make the top four.

"The last few years fourth spot has been open really late but we haven’t been able to sneak into it.

"We’re hoping to change that."

If Black has his way, he will be part of any future success.

"I’ve still got next year contract-wise with the club but I’d love to play another two or three years," he said.

"I’m still enjoying my footy and I didn’t need to have an operation this off-season, which was a nice change."

http://i34.tinypic.com/28lvsxi.jpg
Source (http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2009/11/05/73945_local-sport-news.html)

The picture is entirely relevant. :D

Blacky should feel free to stick around in the AFL forever.

[lions_girl_4life]

Wait, if his contract runs out next year wouldn't that leave it open for GC, but surely we would get him to put pen to paper pretty soon right ?

[blackyismyboy]

Even if GC go after him, I doubt he would switch. I reckon he's a Lion 'til he retires.

[lions_girl_4life]

So do I, but that won't stop me worrying :D

[blackyismyboy]

Haha, I know right. Signing him on for a few more years will let me sleep better at night!

[lions_girl_4life]

Signing Brown, Black, Power, Rich, Merret, Clark and all of our boys that perform every week for the rest of their careers would keep me happy

[blackyismyboy]

Oh damn straight, me too. :D

[lions_girl_4life]

I remember Richy saying he considers himself very loyal :D

[blackyismyboy]

That sounds promising! :D

[christicehurst]

What's the pic got to do with anything :)

[blackyismyboy]

It, um... shows that he's still fit. Yep. :D

[lions_girl_4life]

Nice cover Ash ;)

[christicehurst]

Ins't it the man's job to perv and the women's job to tell us off? lol

[lions_girl_4life]

Well that does happen a lot but us girls can perv just as much as you boys can :D

[christicehurst]

And you're too young to know about these things haha

[lions_girl_4life]

Doesn't stop me though ;)

[blackyismyboy]

Nice cover Ash ;)

Thank you. :D

We're a tad more discreet about our perving, Chris. ;)

[christicehurst]

Naughty girls here. I've never done perving

[lions_girl_4life]

Sure Chris... :D
Ash, check out my photo album :D

[christicehurst]

Sure Chris... :D
Ash, check out my photo album :D

And it gets worse!

[blackyismyboy]

Excuse me while I laugh hysterically, Chris. ;)

[blackyismyboy]

Sure Chris... :D
Ash, check out my photo album :D

Heading over there now! :D

[christicehurst]

Girls should not perv, they should cross their legs, and make cups of tea and paint their nails. Girl stuff you know :)

[blackyismyboy]

I hate tea, and I don't think I've painted my nails since I was 8. Lmao.

[lions_girl_4life]

Girl stuff is perving :D It's why they make movies with hot guys in it.. I mean hello? how many times will Taylor Lautner have his shirt off in New Moon? *drool* ANd I'm the same, hate tea, hate nail polish

[christicehurst]

Oh no not Twilight!

[blackyismyboy]

I don't like Twilight either. Give me Harry Potter anyday. ;)

[El Senor Chezzalenko]

Oh no not Twilight!

Amen to that, brudda.

[christicehurst]

I don't like Twilight either. Give me Harry Potter anyday. ;)

Oh no not.....ah it's not too bad

[lions_girl_4life]

I don't like Twilight either. Give me Harry Potter anyday. ;)
I'm love Harry as well, but hey, you have to love the boys of Twilight... Taylor... Robert... Kellan... Jackson... Peter.... Yum. Moving on, girls can perve!

[blackyismyboy]

Damn straight. You seen those boys from 'Supernatural'? :D

[lions_girl_4life]

Hmmm.... yes! Gorgeous... I love the scene in 17 Again (Patfull's fav movie :D) when Zac Efron does the big strut in the leather jacket with the convertible behind him.... And the H&A boys.... Romeo can be my Romeo any day

[christicehurst]

Go and make Girl's Perv thread or something

[lions_girl_4life]

I better check - we are actually allowed to make one?

[jayt]

The only good thing about Twilight is Kristen Stewart, she is hot as hell

[blackyismyboy]

The only good thing about Twilight is Kristen Stewart, she is hot as hell

LOL. No she's not. Throughout the whole movie she has ONE facial expression. :p

[Balony_pony16]

how this? My Brother in-law was doing bench presses at the gym and was starting to struggle, and Blacky came and spotted for him

[lions_girl_4life]

Did he get his autograph?? The lucky one... Blacky, our legend.. And Ash, she does get better as an actress in New Moon

[blackyismyboy]

how this? My Brother in-law was doing bench presses at the gym and was starting to struggle, and Blacky came and spotted for him

That's so cool! Blacky's awesome. :)

[Balony_pony16]

Did he get his autograph?? The lucky one... Blacky, our legend.. And Ash, she does get better as an actress in New Moon

no, he is a Roos supporter, and he didn't want to look like a dick. he had a little chat to him though. Black was just doing a extra training session

[Balony_pony16]

he is looking super fit apparently

[lions_girl_4life]

That's good news... Blacky is always gonna go down as one of the greatest Lions, one and off the field

[blackyismyboy]

he is looking super fit apparently

Happy happy, joy joy. :D

[lions_girl_4life]

which definition of fit i wonder? Mine and ash's or balone's?

[b_lions16]

Goody...he's looking to play over 34, I reckon...he's got durability and he doesn't get injured much...he could do a Robert Harvey. :D

[blackyismyboy]

which definition of fit i wonder? Mine and ash's or balone's?

Hehehe. :D

[lions_girl_4life]

Goody...he's looking to play over 34, I reckon...he's got durability and he doesn't get injured much...he could do a Robert Harvey. :D
Or an alastair lynch :D

[b_lions16]

THE 2001-04 Brisbane Lions were the team of the decade and it is no surprise one of them sits atop the list of the AFL's best performers of the era. But the choice of Simon Black over his skipper Michael Voss might raise eyebrows.
If this list did not cover the current decade in its entirety, Voss would have no doubt been nearer the top.
But the three-time premiership skipper retired in 2006 and was no longer a dominant force in his final two seasons.
Black has never been considered the best player in the competition. Voss, Chris Judd and now Gary Ablett have all carried that title.
He would struggle to fill a highlight reel but he is as good today as he was in 2000, and although there are more explosive players on the list, none has managed the same level of sustained excellence for the entire 10 years and that is why he pips Judd.
The heart of the Lions' engine room was a best and fairest in the club's first premiership in 2001, won the Brownlow the following year and the Norm Smith the one after that.
He is still in the top five come Brownlow night every year and came close to claiming his second in 2008.
His qualifying final performance against a Judd-led Carlton this season, after being in doubt all week with a hamstring injury, was A-class.
The two best players in the game, Judd and Ablett, started their careers at the same time but the Blues skipper gets the nod at No.2 because he matured more quickly and has been the benchmark for longer.
His reputation has been enhanced by what he has achieved at Carlton, who aren't the force that West Coast were in his prime.
Carlton's midfield has been dubbed the Fab Four, but there is really only one superstar.
Like he did for Michael Braun and Daniel Kerr at the Eagles, Judd makes his teammates look better.
Little separates the game's two best forwards, Nick Riewoldt and Jonathan Brown.
Individual accolades put Riewoldt ahead with his five best and fairests and four All-Australian selections and he is a superior pack mark and probably covers the ground better than Brown these days.
But forwards are there to kick goals and that gives Brown the edge. He is the most intimidating presence in the game and the first man in the competition you'd look for in the dying stages to win you a grand final.
Ablett is the shining light in the best side in the competition.
But, as good as he is, Geelong can cover his absence.
Black, Judd, and Riewoldt are indispensable.
Now Brisbane have Brendan Fevola, they could win games without Brown, but not a premiership.
Like Voss, Ablett would have claims for a higher spot if this was a top 10 based on their very best football, not performances over the decade.
Ben Cousins' fall from grace because of drug addiction can cloud memories of how good he was.
Even this year - after 12 months out of the game, in his 30s and with dodgy hamstrings - he was the Tigers' best player.
For most of this decade, no one in the competition ran harder than Cousins.
He was such a fierce competitor he never, ever left anything in the tank.
James Hird was a superstar. His career spanned the past two decades and, like Voss, he would have slotted into the top 10 in both of them.
He shades Voss because he played better for longer, winning the Bombers' best and fairest in 2007, his final year.
Adam Goodes is the decade's only multiple Brownlow winner. He can play anywhere and is almost impossible to match up on.
Matthew Scarlett is possibly the greatest fullback to play the game and deservedly rounds out our top 10.
The hard luck story and our first emergency is Robert Harvey. He was one of the best 10 players for the 20 years he played at the top level, but his best football was in the 1990s.
When narrowed down to the years between 2000 and now, he just misses out.http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/afl/story/0,27046,26518733-5016169,00.html

[lions_girl_4life]

It's good to see Blacky getting some recognition

[b_lions16]

SIMON Black is a long way from seeking the fireplace and slippers but he will have a lot more midfield support at the Brisbane Lions this season. For the past few seasons, in the wake of the break-up of the midfield Fab Four from the glory days of the 2001-03 triple premiership, it wasn't exactly a simple equation of stop Black and you stop the Lions.
But it was close to it.
Rival clubs' game plans inevitably were based at limiting Black's influence at stoppages.
Black turned 30 last April but he had another stellar year when he dominated the Lions' statistical breakdown in hard ball gets, contested possessions and clearances.
Modern football is becoming more driven by those areas of the play.
Lions midfield coach Adrian Fletcher is working with 15 of the playing list.
"We believe you ideally need 10 players with the ability to take a turn in the midfield in matches," Fletcher said.
"The average player can go at the speed required for about seven minutes in the midfield and then be rotated. With a Rolls-Royce like Blacky you might get around 12 minutes. Some with an extreme engine might get to 15 minutes.
"In 2008, there were an average of 80 stoppages a match. Last year it went up to 90.
"You need three types of players in the midfield – a ball winner, a strong tackler with the ability to stop the opposition and someone who can get clear of the congestion."
Last season Rising Star award-winner Daniel Rich was a revelation, but he can expect to draw heavier tagging in 2010.
Jared Brennan became a valued contributor with his ability to break away from the stoppages, Luke Power was solid as ever and Michael Rischitelli was good in patches.
Former Sydney Swan Amon Buchanan is expected to get time in the midfield.
But it is Generation Next where the Lions hierarchy expect the big improvement to come.
Two emerging players who will have an opportunity to "demand" a midfield role are James Polkinghorne, 21, and Jack Redden, 19.
Polkinghorne's time has come. He is approaching his third season at the club and won selection for 20 matches last season, a sign he has the confidence of coach Michael Voss.
Polkinghorne admits his sense of being part of the team grew with the continuity of matches.
"There is no doubt your development gets fast-tracked with regular games. I've had a great pre-season. There is no doubt there will be very healthy competition for the midfield positions but that's great for the team," Polkinghorne said.
"I just hope to hold my spot and continue to improve."
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/afl/story/0,27046,26639142-5016169,00.html

[worbsy]

Looking forward to a big year from both those boys, Polks and Redden. Blacky will be as great as ever, though injuries may start to take more of a toll now that he's nearing the end of his career :(

[christicehurst]

Him and Power have never had big injuries have they?

[Jedstheman]

Him and Power have never had big injuries have they?

They both didn't train yesterday with the main group Blacky ran some laps but Power did handball drills only no running at all HMMMMMMM a little worried about this.

[christicehurst]

I have heard Power might not be playing for a month. Which is sad

[b_lions16]

They're pensioners, what do you expect?...lol. :D

[Jedstheman]

http://www.brisbanelionsunited.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=296&stc=1&d=1265079450

[Jedstheman]

Back training with the main group yesterday was Blacky but No Luke Power to be seen Hmmmmmmmmm Not into that at all

[Jedstheman]

http://www.brisbanelionsunited.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=319&stc=1&d=1265261104

[Kenyon]

Dont worry about Power, fact is, it's rare that any club has a full squad to pick from.

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/black_profile-c.jpg
Name: Simon Black

Your earliest football memory is: Watching my brother play junior footy and wanting to join in

Best mark you have taken at any level of football: When I was in high school I took a mark at lunchtime on top of three kids. I felt like I was three stories high

Best goal: Vs North Melbourne at the MCG in about Round 4 of 1998

Where were you on the day you were drafted: At home in Perth

The hardest part of pre-season training: Groundhog day

Favourite training drill: Handball game

The best decision you have made on the football field: To go and get the ball

If you could play another professional sport, it would be: Surfing

Sports teams you support (non-AFL): Chelsea

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you: I couldn’t play sport for 12 months when I was 15 because of a back problem

Life motto: Don’t have too many ‘what ifs’

What dish would you serve up if you were on MasterChef: A salmon meal

Where is the furthest you have been from home: England

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe that you still wear: A favourite T-shirt

Most environmentally conscious teammate: Not sure

Teammate most likely to Google his own name: Jamie Charman

Teammate most likely to go into politics after football: Luke Power

What rules you more - your heart or your head: Depends on the situation

Do you prefer a planned event or an unplanned event: Unplanned

The last concert you went to: Coldplay

Your favourite cricketer: Mike Hussey

French fries or wedges: Fries

Speedos or boardshorts: Boardies

What’s on your iPod: A lot of cruisy music
http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/89409/default.aspx

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/black_profile-c.jpg
Name: Simon Black

Your earliest football memory is: Watching my brother play junior footy and wanting to join in

Best mark you have taken at any level of football: When I was in high school I took a mark at lunchtime on top of three kids. I felt like I was three stories high

Best goal: Vs North Melbourne at the MCG in about Round 4 of 1998

Where were you on the day you were drafted: At home in Perth

The hardest part of pre-season training: Groundhog day

Favourite training drill: Handball game

The best decision you have made on the football field: To go and get the ball

If you could play another professional sport, it would be: Surfing

Sports teams you support (non-AFL): Chelsea

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you: I couldn’t play sport for 12 months when I was 15 because of a back problem

Life motto: Don’t have too many ‘what ifs’

What dish would you serve up if you were on MasterChef: A salmon meal

Where is the furthest you have been from home: England

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe that you still wear: A favourite T-shirt

Most environmentally conscious teammate: Not sure

Teammate most likely to Google his own name: Jamie Charman

Teammate most likely to go into politics after football: Luke Power

What rules you more - your heart or your head: Depends on the situation

Do you prefer a planned event or an unplanned event: Unplanned

The last concert you went to: Coldplay

Your favourite cricketer: Mike Hussey

French fries or wedges: Fries

Speedos or boardshorts: Boardies

What’s on your iPod: A lot of cruisy music
http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/89409/default.aspx

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/black_profile-c.jpg
Name: Simon Black

Your earliest football memory is: Watching my brother play junior footy and wanting to join in

Best mark you have taken at any level of football: When I was in high school I took a mark at lunchtime on top of three kids. I felt like I was three stories high

Best goal: Vs North Melbourne at the MCG in about Round 4 of 1998

Where were you on the day you were drafted: At home in Perth

The hardest part of pre-season training: Groundhog day

Favourite training drill: Handball game

The best decision you have made on the football field: To go and get the ball

If you could play another professional sport, it would be: Surfing

Sports teams you support (non-AFL): Chelsea

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you: I couldn’t play sport for 12 months when I was 15 because of a back problem

Life motto: Don’t have too many ‘what ifs’

What dish would you serve up if you were on MasterChef: A salmon meal

Where is the furthest you have been from home: England

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe that you still wear: A favourite T-shirt

Most environmentally conscious teammate: Not sure

Teammate most likely to Google his own name: Jamie Charman

Teammate most likely to go into politics after football: Luke Power

What rules you more - your heart or your head: Depends on the situation

Do you prefer a planned event or an unplanned event: Unplanned

The last concert you went to: Coldplay

Your favourite cricketer: Mike Hussey

French fries or wedges: Fries

Speedos or boardshorts: Boardies

What’s on your iPod: A lot of cruisy music
http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/89409/default.aspx

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/black_profile-c.jpg
Name: Simon Black

Your earliest football memory is: Watching my brother play junior footy and wanting to join in

Best mark you have taken at any level of football: When I was in high school I took a mark at lunchtime on top of three kids. I felt like I was three stories high

Best goal: Vs North Melbourne at the MCG in about Round 4 of 1998

Where were you on the day you were drafted: At home in Perth

The hardest part of pre-season training: Groundhog day

Favourite training drill: Handball game

The best decision you have made on the football field: To go and get the ball

If you could play another professional sport, it would be: Surfing

Sports teams you support (non-AFL): Chelsea

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you: I couldn’t play sport for 12 months when I was 15 because of a back problem

Life motto: Don’t have too many ‘what ifs’

What dish would you serve up if you were on MasterChef: A salmon meal

Where is the furthest you have been from home: England

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe that you still wear: A favourite T-shirt

Most environmentally conscious teammate: Not sure

Teammate most likely to Google his own name: Jamie Charman

Teammate most likely to go into politics after football: Luke Power

What rules you more - your heart or your head: Depends on the situation

Do you prefer a planned event or an unplanned event: Unplanned

The last concert you went to: Coldplay

Your favourite cricketer: Mike Hussey

French fries or wedges: Fries

Speedos or boardshorts: Boardies

What’s on your iPod: A lot of cruisy music
http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/89409/default.aspx

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/black_profile-c.jpg
Name: Simon Black

Your earliest football memory is: Watching my brother play junior footy and wanting to join in

Best mark you have taken at any level of football: When I was in high school I took a mark at lunchtime on top of three kids. I felt like I was three stories high

Best goal: Vs North Melbourne at the MCG in about Round 4 of 1998

Where were you on the day you were drafted: At home in Perth

The hardest part of pre-season training: Groundhog day

Favourite training drill: Handball game

The best decision you have made on the football field: To go and get the ball

If you could play another professional sport, it would be: Surfing

Sports teams you support (non-AFL): Chelsea

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you: I couldn’t play sport for 12 months when I was 15 because of a back problem

Life motto: Don’t have too many ‘what ifs’

What dish would you serve up if you were on MasterChef: A salmon meal

Where is the furthest you have been from home: England

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe that you still wear: A favourite T-shirt

Most environmentally conscious teammate: Not sure

Teammate most likely to Google his own name: Jamie Charman

Teammate most likely to go into politics after football: Luke Power

What rules you more - your heart or your head: Depends on the situation

Do you prefer a planned event or an unplanned event: Unplanned

The last concert you went to: Coldplay

Your favourite cricketer: Mike Hussey

French fries or wedges: Fries

Speedos or boardshorts: Boardies

What’s on your iPod: A lot of cruisy music
http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/89409/default.aspx

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/black_profile-c.jpg
Name: Simon Black

Your earliest football memory is: Watching my brother play junior footy and wanting to join in

Best mark you have taken at any level of football: When I was in high school I took a mark at lunchtime on top of three kids. I felt like I was three stories high

Best goal: Vs North Melbourne at the MCG in about Round 4 of 1998

Where were you on the day you were drafted: At home in Perth

The hardest part of pre-season training: Groundhog day

Favourite training drill: Handball game

The best decision you have made on the football field: To go and get the ball

If you could play another professional sport, it would be: Surfing

Sports teams you support (non-AFL): Chelsea

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you: I couldn’t play sport for 12 months when I was 15 because of a back problem

Life motto: Don’t have too many ‘what ifs’

What dish would you serve up if you were on MasterChef: A salmon meal

Where is the furthest you have been from home: England

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe that you still wear: A favourite T-shirt

Most environmentally conscious teammate: Not sure

Teammate most likely to Google his own name: Jamie Charman

Teammate most likely to go into politics after football: Luke Power

What rules you more - your heart or your head: Depends on the situation

Do you prefer a planned event or an unplanned event: Unplanned

The last concert you went to: Coldplay

Your favourite cricketer: Mike Hussey

French fries or wedges: Fries

Speedos or boardshorts: Boardies

What’s on your iPod: A lot of cruisy music
http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/89409/default.aspx

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/black_profile-c.jpg
Name: Simon Black

Your earliest football memory is: Watching my brother play junior footy and wanting to join in

Best mark you have taken at any level of football: When I was in high school I took a mark at lunchtime on top of three kids. I felt like I was three stories high

Best goal: Vs North Melbourne at the MCG in about Round 4 of 1998

Where were you on the day you were drafted: At home in Perth

The hardest part of pre-season training: Groundhog day

Favourite training drill: Handball game

The best decision you have made on the football field: To go and get the ball

If you could play another professional sport, it would be: Surfing

Sports teams you support (non-AFL): Chelsea

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you: I couldn’t play sport for 12 months when I was 15 because of a back problem

Life motto: Don’t have too many ‘what ifs’

What dish would you serve up if you were on MasterChef: A salmon meal

Where is the furthest you have been from home: England

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe that you still wear: A favourite T-shirt

Most environmentally conscious teammate: Not sure

Teammate most likely to Google his own name: Jamie Charman

Teammate most likely to go into politics after football: Luke Power

What rules you more - your heart or your head: Depends on the situation

Do you prefer a planned event or an unplanned event: Unplanned

The last concert you went to: Coldplay

Your favourite cricketer: Mike Hussey

French fries or wedges: Fries

Speedos or boardshorts: Boardies

What’s on your iPod: A lot of cruisy music
http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/89409/default.aspx

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/black_profile-c.jpg
Name: Simon Black

Your earliest football memory is: Watching my brother play junior footy and wanting to join in

Best mark you have taken at any level of football: When I was in high school I took a mark at lunchtime on top of three kids. I felt like I was three stories high

Best goal: Vs North Melbourne at the MCG in about Round 4 of 1998

Where were you on the day you were drafted: At home in Perth

The hardest part of pre-season training: Groundhog day

Favourite training drill: Handball game

The best decision you have made on the football field: To go and get the ball

If you could play another professional sport, it would be: Surfing

Sports teams you support (non-AFL): Chelsea

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you: I couldn’t play sport for 12 months when I was 15 because of a back problem

Life motto: Don’t have too many ‘what ifs’

What dish would you serve up if you were on MasterChef: A salmon meal

Where is the furthest you have been from home: England

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe that you still wear: A favourite T-shirt

Most environmentally conscious teammate: Not sure

Teammate most likely to Google his own name: Jamie Charman

Teammate most likely to go into politics after football: Luke Power

What rules you more - your heart or your head: Depends on the situation

Do you prefer a planned event or an unplanned event: Unplanned

The last concert you went to: Coldplay

Your favourite cricketer: Mike Hussey

French fries or wedges: Fries

Speedos or boardshorts: Boardies

What’s on your iPod: A lot of cruisy music
http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/89409/default.aspx

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/black_profile-c.jpg
Name: Simon Black

Your earliest football memory is: Watching my brother play junior footy and wanting to join in

Best mark you have taken at any level of football: When I was in high school I took a mark at lunchtime on top of three kids. I felt like I was three stories high

Best goal: Vs North Melbourne at the MCG in about Round 4 of 1998

Where were you on the day you were drafted: At home in Perth

The hardest part of pre-season training: Groundhog day

Favourite training drill: Handball game

The best decision you have made on the football field: To go and get the ball

If you could play another professional sport, it would be: Surfing

Sports teams you support (non-AFL): Chelsea

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you: I couldn’t play sport for 12 months when I was 15 because of a back problem

Life motto: Don’t have too many ‘what ifs’

What dish would you serve up if you were on MasterChef: A salmon meal

Where is the furthest you have been from home: England

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe that you still wear: A favourite T-shirt

Most environmentally conscious teammate: Not sure

Teammate most likely to Google his own name: Jamie Charman

Teammate most likely to go into politics after football: Luke Power

What rules you more - your heart or your head: Depends on the situation

Do you prefer a planned event or an unplanned event: Unplanned

The last concert you went to: Coldplay

Your favourite cricketer: Mike Hussey

French fries or wedges: Fries

Speedos or boardshorts: Boardies

What’s on your iPod: A lot of cruisy music
http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/89409/default.aspx

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/black_profile-c.jpg
Name: Simon Black

Your earliest football memory is: Watching my brother play junior footy and wanting to join in

Best mark you have taken at any level of football: When I was in high school I took a mark at lunchtime on top of three kids. I felt like I was three stories high

Best goal: Vs North Melbourne at the MCG in about Round 4 of 1998

Where were you on the day you were drafted: At home in Perth

The hardest part of pre-season training: Groundhog day

Favourite training drill: Handball game

The best decision you have made on the football field: To go and get the ball

If you could play another professional sport, it would be: Surfing

Sports teams you support (non-AFL): Chelsea

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you: I couldn’t play sport for 12 months when I was 15 because of a back problem

Life motto: Don’t have too many ‘what ifs’

What dish would you serve up if you were on MasterChef: A salmon meal

Where is the furthest you have been from home: England

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe that you still wear: A favourite T-shirt

Most environmentally conscious teammate: Not sure

Teammate most likely to Google his own name: Jamie Charman

Teammate most likely to go into politics after football: Luke Power

What rules you more - your heart or your head: Depends on the situation

Do you prefer a planned event or an unplanned event: Unplanned

The last concert you went to: Coldplay

Your favourite cricketer: Mike Hussey

French fries or wedges: Fries

Speedos or boardshorts: Boardies

What’s on your iPod: A lot of cruisy music
http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/89409/default.aspx

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/black_profile-c.jpg[/URL]
Your earliest football memory is: Watching my brother play junior footy and wanting to join in

Best mark you have taken at any level of football: When I was in high school I took a mark at lunchtime on top of three kids. I felt like I was three stories high

Best goal: Vs North Melbourne at the MCG in about Round 4 of 1998

Where were you on the day you were drafted: At home in Perth

The hardest part of pre-season training: Groundhog day

Favourite training drill: Handball game

The best decision you have made on the football field: To go and get the ball

If you could play another professional sport, it would be: Surfing

Sports teams you support (non-AFL): Chelsea

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you: I couldn’t play sport for 12 months when I was 15 because of a back problem

Life motto: Don’t have too many ‘what ifs’

What dish would you serve up if you were on MasterChef: A salmon meal

Where is the furthest you have been from home: England

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe that you still wear: A favourite T-shirt

Most environmentally conscious teammate: Not sure

Teammate most likely to Google his own name: Jamie Charman

Teammate most likely to go into politics after football: Luke Power

What rules you more - your heart or your head: Depends on the situation

Do you prefer a planned event or an unplanned event: Unplanned

The last concert you went to: Coldplay

Your favourite cricketer: Mike Hussey

French fries or wedges: Fries

Speedos or boardshorts: Boardies

What’s on your iPod: A lot of cruisy music
[URL]http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/89409/default.aspx (http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/89409/default.aspx)

[Hayley]

http://i47.tinypic.com/ih1j49.png

[b_lions16]

Looks younger every year, doesn't he. :D

[b_lions16]

SIMON Black concedes the numbers on his birth certificate could point to this being his last season. Black is the oldest player on Brisbane's list and turns 31 in April.
He is the only Lion left who was born in the 1970s. But age is failing to weary the AFL's most decorated active player as he strives to be a part of Brisbane's next wave of premiership success.
He certainly doesn't look, or play, like a bloke entering the twilight years of a career that has netted three flags, three All-Australian selections, one Brownlow Medal, one Norm Smith Medal and three club champion titles. He finished equal fourth in last year's Brownlow count and was robbed of another All-Australian gong after a stellar campaign.
The 256-game veteran feels physically and mentally fresh enough to play for at least two more seasons.
"Another couple of years would be great. Anything else would be an absolute bonus," he said.
"I'd be disappointed if this was my last year but you never know once you pass 30.
"That's the reality of football but I'm not thinking it's my last year. I reckon I'll go at least one more after this one and then we'll see what happens. We had to start again after all the guys retired from those great premiership sides and we've had some hard times and some challenging times since then.
"We've regenerated the side with a lot of young blokes and some new recruits and we are ready to really come on so it would be good to be a part of that next phase.
"I'm not big on predictions but with the individuals we have picked up over the off-season I'd like to think we will at least be a better team than last year.
"If nothing else we have got a lot more depth that will serve us well over the season. Everyone will have to earn their spot in the team."
Hamstring tendinitis has prevented Black from doing all of the Lions' pre-season training and he is expected to play in Brisbane's second NAB Regional Challenge match in early March.
Black said "good genes" and good fortune on the injury front have contributed to his longevity.
"There's no doubt I've been lucky with my body, which has held up pretty well. As I've got older I've learned how to look after myself too," he said.
"I have learned the importance of stretching and I don't carry a lot of weight around so that helps.
"The pre-season has been OK by my standards and I've been able to string a few sessions together and get a bit of work under my belt so I'm looking forward to getting out there and having a run and getting a kick.
"The desire hasn't really changed too much at all over the years. You have to always strive to be better."
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/afl/story/0,27046,26749589-5016181,00.html

[lions_girl_4life]

That's our Blacky!

[blackyismyboy]

DON'T RETIRE EVER BLACKY. I really hope he sticks around for another three or so years.

[Hayley]

He's got at least 2-3 years left in him. I'll be gutted when he does retire. Not as much as you, ey Ash? lmfao