We are now just a few weeks away from the pre-season competition -- the NAB Cup. The competition opens with Collingwood taking on West Coast over at Subiaco, after the match was moved from Dubai largely due to the economic crisis.
Collingwood fans were pleased with the match being moved back to our shores, as many felt Collingwood's excessive travel during the off-season may have hindered preparations. I'm sure many opposition fans find this ironic; as Collingwood have been criticised on a regular basis for their lack of travel during the season proper.
West Coast had a forgettable 2008, a year which saw them plummet from the top four to finish the season second last. In the balanced nature of today's game, cellar dwelling - even for a solitary year - comes with its rewards; as West Coast entered the 2008 draft with three selections within the top 20 in what was considered a very strong draft.
Some supporters opt to steer clear of the pre-season competition, as they don't feel it's a clear indication of their team's current standing. Sides have been known to take the NAB Cup less seriously, while others use it as an opportunity to gain some winning form prior to the real thing.
I dare say that the supporters who steer clear of the pre-season competition are within the minority, as five months without football is enough to drive any fan stir crazy. Regardless of the novelty nature of the NAB Cup, it is often an opportunity for fans to view the up-and-coming players within their side, as coaches seize the opportunity to test their untried players in match conditions.
I'm counting down the days until any football returns to the television, as whilst I enjoy following the cricket, nothing competes with the AFL.
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