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September 27 2008


From the pen of Andy


Thornlie Ravens

The best of what remained in white

Although losing grand finalists by just 3 shots – Thornlie had one of their better seasons; in particular their playing group finished the pennant year off strongly, something that the club has failed to do too many times in years past.

Regrettably Greg Regan has indicated he will be continuing his bowling career with The Millers. Yes "Gucci" is off to join his son Nick and they all wish him well. Greg’s contribution with The Ravens has been a lot more than just bowling and his stylish dress and dry sense of humor will be sadly missed around Ravenhill Road.

There are reports of some new signings – Wayne Heldt and Ivan Jakovich are rumoured to be moving as is Alan Corby and they are all looking forward to Danny Penman stepping out in Raven’s colours this coming season. The selectors will have their time cut out keeping everyone happy and meeting individual’s expectations. Still the big winner with these new comers will be The Club.

2008/09 will see a stronger 16 on the park and an expectation of promotion as the only acceptable outcome. The club has developed some considerable depth over the last year or two and there is plenty of “home grown” talent to choose from. It will be difficult to fit the 20 or 25 that deserve a run in the top side into 16 and that is always a pleasing position for any club to be in. The Ravens have three second division sides this year and almost certainly one of those will win promotion to first blue. So with plenty to play for – it is on with the coming season and a very competitive pre-season round of practice matches.

Glyn “Bubbles” Vaughan has been a breath of fresh air and his legacy of gritty determination together with his great skill, is rubbing off on quite a few. Bubbles had a great season, both on and off the pennant track and his input next season will be extremely vital. Ross McMillan, Buddha Rewell and Tony Churcher all played their part in producing the 7 wins, 3 draws with a +39.

Paul “Ya gotta get it up” Pohe, heads up the clubs selection panel and it is worth noting that a club member told me Paul is re-reading the Dale Carnegie book on “HOW TO WIN FRIENDS AND INFLUENCE PEOPLE”. Not sure there is much truth in that but it does make for good reading. Alan Petchell, Jim Stein and “Handy” Andy Lill worked well together recording 9 wins and a +35

“Diamond” Jim McKenzie (as Mad Dog Morgan refers to him) skipped The Ravens “rink of the year” the big bloke had a reasonably good year and keeps getting better with age, maybe there is something about being over 60 that Macka is keeping a secret. This rink finished off the year strongly with good teamwork featuring on most occasions, Mick Hansen, Doc Kimble and “Hava Chat” Irwine all had their moments in the sun producing 10 wins and a draw with a +15.

That leaves Gucci’s rink, which also performed well throughout the year, who will take that on? Penman – Heldt – Petchell or someone else from within? The selectors will sort that one out one way or the other. Mean while it should be noted that Terry McCormack had a stellar year, one of his best for some time as well John Walker and Ray Halse (a selector next season) made more than a significant impression, their result being 10 wins with a +5.

Still all looks good for the Ravens this year only one loss and a few very good gains. They have some up and coming home grown talent that must in time find their way into this clubs top 16 – so look out boys the pressure is on.


Where will they finish in 08/09?

Andy has peered into his “crystal balls” and there was The Ravens playing off in next years Grand Final and although it got a bit fuzzy, they looked like winners. Certainly, The Ravens will be a strong top four contender.

There is a problem at Ravenhill Road – that being where to play bowls – they have a confirmed contingent of grass lovers and a few who prefer the carpet. The dickey bird tells me that grass will be their preferred option for the coming season. That would appear to be a beneficial step as The Ravens did not fair all that well when stepping out on the carpet. There is to be another carpet installed prior to the season starting – so who knows – that may further influence their choice of playing surface.

Off field the Ravens are having a busy winter. Ian “Buddha” Rewell has been appointed “Club Manager” a real good step in the right direction. So Thornlie are on the move and any bowler thinking of making a move to a new club – should consider The Ravens along with any other options they may have. Call Buddha on 9459 9414 and make your reservation to join “This Club on the Move”.

Even better call in and tell Buddha that Andy said he would buy you a beer, go and collect it as good offers don’t come along all that often these days. RUMOURS It has been whispered in corridors (must be back passages surely) that players will all be getting some type of payment.
We believe $3,000 a year for all continuous years of playing. However there is one small catch apparently – that is full payment will be made, in cash, in the year 2099 and I believe you have to be there in person to pick up your lot, or the money reverts to the club.

GO “THE RAVENS”