There Is Light

Took a drive down to Canberra with brother Danny to see the 18th AFL team, the Greater Western Sydney Giants, play Carlton at Manuka Oval.

It was a very one-sided contest, going down by 157 points. Just looking at the margin ignores many other factors that should excite the footy fans in the west of Sydney.

Take into account that there was a team from the highest level against one from a second tier competition. Also take into account that the average age of the giants players was 18. The oldest players were 23 years old.

It’s obvious that the Giants aren’t up to the speed of the top competition, yet. The players are very skilled but have not come across such an opposition before. They looked rushed which led to skill errors and turnovers. Some passages of play were brilliant, which demonstrates the potential this squad has.

Recruitment at seasons end will be interesting to watch. The difference some experienced AFL players will make to this line up will be amazing. The right players can be the difference between being competitive and a season of floggings.

Boom rugby league signing, Israel Folau, is still yet to play. The cynic in me thinks he is being protected from the media glare during the nab cup. Although the official word is that he is still getting over an injury. Whatever the reason his involvement will be crucial as the team was lacking big bodies in key positions. Can he play? Only time will tell. He has been given every chance with being coached one on one by team of the century full back, Stephen Silvagni.

What the giants need is more games like this and the injection of the right experienced players. Both will come, which makes the future of this club very exciting.

Why? Oh why?

In our country we have had our share of natural disasters. One thing that is sure to come up in conversation with those suffering is why did this happen? Some take things further by asking God, why did you let this happen?

There are so many theological answers to this question but generally it’s not what the grieving individual wants to hear at that time.

An interesting observation though is that it seems to take a natural disaster to bring out the best in people. A generous spirit that should be there all the time but doesn’t seem evident or prevalent. People stop and think about others first for a change. They gather to help clean up en masse. It makes a huge difference to the morale of those affected.

We live in a culture that is inherently selfish and in inward looking. The generosity is immense yet brief, until the next disaster occurs.

The nations media with their blanket coverage are in awe of the multitude of feel good stories to tell. It needn’t be the case as this immense sense of community should be the case all the time.