The threegrahamsandamic‘s Podcast: Recent Episodes
threegrahamsandamic
Join the lively hosts of "Three Grahams and a Mic" podcast as they broadcast live from Australia, bringing a fresh take on professional sports. In this special episode, Kel, Axel, and Cotto dive into the excitement of AFL Grand Final Day, sharing their thoughts on the match-up between South Melbourne (Sydney Swans) and Fitzroy (Brisbane Lions), and the absence of Victorian teams.
The episode kicks off with an engaging "Buy It or Sell It" segment, where the hosts discuss topics ranging from Katy Perry's performance to the latest sports controversies, including a lawsuit over a high-stakes baseball catch and the Oakland A's move to Las Vegas.
Sports enthusiasts will enjoy in-depth discussions on Daniel Ricciardo's F1 career, the thrilling AFL grand final predictions, and a deep dive into the NRL's hottest topics, including the potential coaching changes for the Broncos and the Roosters' recent season wrap-up.
Tune in for a mix of humor, insight, and passionate sports talk that promises to be the key to your weekend enjoyment.
In this engaging episode of "Three Grahams and a Mic," your hosts Kel, Axel, and Cotto are back to give you the latest updates and insights on a variety of topics. Broadcasting live from Australia, they kick things off with a detailed discussion on local council elections, sharing personal experiences and lessons learned from the political arena.
The conversation then shifts gears to professional sports, where the hosts delve into the intricacies of AFL, NRL, and even Formula One. They analyze recent matches, share their predictions, and debate the decisions of key players and coaches. Whether it's the latest in Australian cricket or the future of Dan Ricciardo in Formula One, this episode covers it all.
Don't miss out on this informative and entertaining episode, perfect for anyone looking to catch up on the latest in sports and local politics. Click, listen, and enjoy!
Welcome to the latest episode of "Three Grams in a Mic Podcast," broadcasting live from Australia! Join your hosts Kell, Axel, and Cotto as they bring a fresh perspective on the world of professional sports. This episode kicks off with a deep dive into Formula 1, celebrating the rise of Aussie drivers like Jack Doohan and the challenges they face in the global arena.
The conversation then shifts gears to AFL, discussing the impact of retirements on teams like Richmond and Adelaide, and the future of notable players such as Rory Sloane and Tex Walker. The hosts also touch on key trade rumors and the strategic moves clubs are making ahead of the upcoming season.
In the NRL segment, the team analyzes the latest controversies, including Latrell Mitchell's potential suspension and its implications for South Sydney. They also speculate on the finals prospects for top teams like the Storm, Roosters, and Dogs, while reflecting on the broader state of the league.
Tune in for an engaging mix of sports analysis, player insights, and a touch of humor, all from an Aussie perspective. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking to catch up on the latest sports buzz, this episode has something for everyone. Don't miss out!
Welcome to the latest episode of "3 Grams and a Mic" podcast, broadcasting live from Australia. Join hosts Kel, Axel, and Cotto as they dive into a fresh perspective on professional sports.
In this episode, the team welcomes Graham Kelly and Graham Foley, discussing local council elections and the big issues affecting the community, including rate variations and road improvements.
The conversation then shifts to AFL, analyzing the recent performances of teams like Collingwood, Carlton, and Melbourne. The hosts also touch on player injuries, trades, and team dynamics.
Stay tuned for an engaging discussion about the latest in professional sports and local politics. Click, listen, and enjoy!
2024 Olympics Medal Tally as a percentage of Population.
Gold Medals per Capita
Grenada 1 Gold per 62,305
Dominica 1 Gold per 73,420
Saint Lucia 1 Gold per 185,870
New Zealand 1 Gold per 590,024
Australia 1 Gold per 1,469,507
USA 1 Gold per 8,947,278
China 1 Gold per 36, 392,853
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Aussie Gold everywhere especially in the pool
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Kaylee McKeown and Jess Fox are standouts
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Great stories such as Saya Sakikabara BMX ride
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Controversy in Boxing with Gender Identification issues clouding boundaries
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The Siene was utilised for the first time since 1923 and has questions about safety
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Matildas go out and so does the coach Gustavson
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Listen to more including NRL and AFL just to balance things out
NRL:
- Get ready for the biggest rivalry in rugby league with our in-depth coverage of the State of Origin!
- The Dogs are finally on fire—hear about their latest victories and what’s next.
- Trouble at the Roosters: Is Brandon Smith on his final warning? Find out the inside scoop.
AFL:
- Celebrate a milestone with us as we discuss Dusty Martin's 300th game.
- The Pies and Melbourne are under pressure—can they make it to the finals? We break down the stats and predictions.
Cricket:
- It's time for the T20 World Cup! Stay tuned for our exclusive analyses and match previews.
Football:
- The Matildas have made their Olympic team! Discover the players to watch and their journey to the Olympics.
NBL:
- A legend returns: Brian Goorjian is back with the Kings. Hear about his plans and what it means for the team.
Golf:
- The prestigious US Open is here. Join us as we follow the top contenders and unexpected twists on the greens.
Tennis:
- We’re serving up everything you need to know about the French Open. From the favorites to the underdogs, don’t miss a moment of the action.
Hosted by Kel, Axel, and Cotto, 3 Grahams and a Mic brings you the latest insights, hot takes, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of sports. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, we keep you connected to the heart of the game. Subscribe now and never miss an episode!
Welcome to "3 Grahams and a Mic"! Here’s your quick hit of the latest sports buzz:
- State of Origin is Back: The iconic series returns, but there's a cloud over James Tedesco's participation. Will "Teddy" play, or is he out?
- Collingwood Injuries: The Pies are feeling the pain as injuries begin to mount.
- Hawks and Blues on the Rise: Hawthorn and Carlton are showing impressive form, climbing up the ladder.
- Finals Frenzy: The NBA and NHL finals are at the sharp end. Who will emerge victorious
- Aussies Making Waves: Alex De Minaur and Thanasi Kokkinakis have advanced to the round of 32 at the French Open, keeping Aussie hopes alive in Paris.
- Min Woo Lee in Contention: Aussie Min Woo Lee is in with a real shot at the LPGA US Open, and Scottie Scheffler’s charges have been dropped, clearing his path.
- Tszyu's Setback: Tim Tsyzu has been medically stopped from his upcoming fight, a significant blow to his campaign.
- IPL Glory: Pat Cummins led the Knight Riders to an IPL championship, with Mitchell Starc shining as man of the match.
- Piastri Takes Off: Oscar Piastri is flying high, and there’s talk of Jack Doohan potentially joining Ricciardo in 2025.
- Champions League & FA Cup Thrills: The Champions League and FA Cup are delivering heart-stopping action as the season reaches its climax.
Tune in next time for more updates and deep dives into these stories!
Join us for our latest episode as we dive into the hottest topics in sports! This week, we're breaking down the AFL's Indigenous Round and most controversial calls, Axel and Cotto's epic trip to witness Collingwood's triumph over Carlton, and Axel's hilarious boycott of Carlton games because they keep losing when he shows up.
With State of Origin just around the corner, we’re analyzing the likely line-ups and discussing the coaching carousel and player movements that almost happened but didn't.
Plus, we’ll give you the latest updates from the EPL, including a look at Jurgen Klopp's final game with Liverpool, as well as the latest in golf and so much more.
Don’t miss out on the sports banter and in-depth analysis from your favorite trio. Subscribe now and join the conversation! 🎧⚽🏉🏀⛳
Description:
Welcome to the latest episode of the Three Grahams and a Mic podcast! Australian hosts Kel, Axel, and Cotto delve into their experiences at local ceremonies and the Anzac Day events across various sports disciplines.
Get a front-row seat to the Australian sports scene as our hosts discuss Football, Boxing, Basketball.
Our team dissects the Bulldog Bombshell which could pose problems for Professional clubs. Kel continues to ponder over the father-son rule's influence and Academy selection.
In this episode, we also highlight the impacts of the Salary cap at Penrith as a number of players sign with other clubs for 2025.
Description:
Welcome to the latest episode of the Three Grahams in a Mic podcast! Australian hosts Kel, Axel, and Cotto deliver a dynamic conversation sprawling across various sports disciplines. Leveraging their professional knowledge and experience, the hosts provide intriguing insights into the Australian Football League (AFL) and the National Rugby League (NRL).
Get a front-row seat to the Australian sports scene as our hosts discuss player performances, club strategies, and notable inconsistencies within major leagues. Kel's recollections of the Hall of Fame event and encounters with Hawthorn Royalty provide a human touch to the narrative, proving that sports stars are just friends enjoying a good night out.
Our team dissects the recruitment areas for AFL clubs, pondering the father-son rule's influence and Academy selection. NRL's surprising performers, the Dolphins, and an article targeting Sydney Roosters Coach Robbo also form part of the discussion. This episode also touches upon the controversial 300th NRL game of Michael Jennings, raising concern over players’ impact on game outcomes and coach accountability.
In this episode, we also highlight the pay gap issue between the WNBA and NBA, promoting a much-needed dialogue. Wrapping up, we keep you updated with latest news from golf, tennis, and football leagues. A side chat about strategic weight decisions in boxing makes our conversation all the more riveting. Tune in to this weekend's episode for a fascinating journey through the sports world.
Join your hosts Kel, Axel and Cotto in this week's episode of "Three Grahams and a Mic", your favorite sports-inspired podcast, recorded live from Australia. Jump into an insightful discussion on the current trends shaking the realms of Rugby, AFL, horse racing, cricket, basketball and more!
This exciting episode begins with a focus on the challenges and triumphs of favorite teams like South Sydney Rabbitohs, exploring coaching changes and speculating about future decisions in the rugby league. Follow our hosts as they navigate through the world of AFL, gently unraveling narratives and predicting the potentials for key personalities.
Dive deeper into the fervor of professional sports with detailed discussions about possible retirement of Teddy Tedesco's. Witness the unfolding saga of Zach Lomax amidst NRL salary cap debates, and the speculative club choices for Joey Manu and Tedesco.
This episode also paints a vivid picture of the AFL landscape, discussing the Hawthorn Hall of Fame event, potential inductees, and the historic lack of indigenous player selection. Join in as the focus narrows to Luke Beveridge, former premiership holder and coach of the 'Millionaire Doggies'.
Step into the provocative world of boxing - scrutinize and assess the referee's role, the doctor's intervention, and walkthrough the repercussions of the biggest cut in boxing history. Unpack the debate on technology's role in sports, highlighting inconsistencies in rugby and AFL rules.
End on a high note, as the hosts guide you through horse racing's fortunes, the ever-changing cricket world, F1 racing's finesse, and basketball glory. Stay updated with latest EPL and Champions League news, delve into golf's comeback stories, and explore sports clubs' tradition and exclusivity.
Whether you're an ardent sports fan or a curious listener, this episode promises a perfect blend of humor, camaraderie, and deep-dives into the captivating world of sports!
Kick off your sporty weekend with the exhilarating episode of "Three Grahams & A Mike," where we tackle everything from games and players to injuries and controversies across various sports. Our hosts, Kel, Axel, Cotto, bring you rich discussions and debates on hot topics such as the decline of star athletes in Collingwood, the surprising rise of Fremantle, and propositions for compensation for veteran sports players affected by injuries.
This episode doesn't shy away from sensitive topics, shedding light on racial discrimination allegations within the AFL. We keenly dissect and question the handling of the Hawthorn AFL case and the broader implications of the incident on other football clubs and the industry at large.
Take a deep dive with us as we explore thrilling athlete's stories such as 'Mad Dog McDougall,' whose wealth spiraled from his patented product to Mark Gasnier's eminent tri-tag fame. The episode also delves into speculative discussions about the future of important sporting events, including the Commonwealth Games and upcoming boxing events, giving a diverse mix of content for the sports aficionados.
Finally, enjoy a captivating analysis of various sports leagues from NBA playoffs to the NCAA March Madness and the exciting Australian Grand Prix qualifiers. The episode ends on a high note, bidding the audience an enjoyable Easter break with the promise of more spirited sports chatter upon return. Regardless of your familiarity with the world of sports, this thought-provoking episode is not one to be missed!
In this dynamic episode of 3 Grahams and a Mic, hosts Kel, Axel, and Cotto delve into a riveting discussion on a gamut of sporting events and personalities, infusing heartening humour throughout. Whether it's anticipating Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari, analyzing West Indies' cricket resurgence, or jesting about the podcast's name change, the hosts ensure an engaging and informative session for all sports enthusiasts.
With an intriguing focus on the spirit of cricket, the episode explores the contributions of legendary players such as Rodney Hogg, Curtley Ambrose, Courtney Walsh, and Malcolm Marshall.
The hosts also touch upon significant cricketing tactics, highlight the importance of ground research, and scrutinize batting styles. Pertinently, the concerning phenomenon of dwindling crowd attendance at cricket games and potential remedies are also discussed.
Furthermore, this episode offers an insightful analysis of the Sydney Cricket Ground's management dynamics and the economic implications of its live concerts' resurgence. From discussing the upkeep costs of stadiums, contemplating on the Socceroos' recent loss, to predicting the Super Bowl and expressing views on Shaquille O'Neal's relationship advice, this episode is an enriching mix of sporting insights and entertainment updates.
If you love sports or simply enjoy a good laugh, 3 Grahams and a Mic promises a laughter-packed, enlightening episode filled with thoughtful sports commentary and camaraderie.
Can the West Indies bring Test Cricket back or will their great players be picked off for T20?
Who wins the 2nd test vs Windies (evenly poised), could there be an upset?
Will Kel survive a beating from his wife once she hears what he has said about her on this podcast?
3 Grahams and a mic are glad to be back and hope that everyone has had a great break.
NRL Draft Team Each of the boys choose their best 17 players but can only use 1 player per club and they must play in that position.
Why don't you create your team and compare.
Australian Open - Can the "Demon" win?
Test Cricket - Will test cricket survive
Boxing - Tim Tszyu has something big on the horizon
Football/Soccer - Aussies and the Asian Cup
Rugby - New Australian Coach
AFL - Off Season bringing plenty
Merry Xmas Everyone,
Everyone at 3 Grahams and a Mic wish you and your families a safe and terrific Xmas period.
The Boys discuss 2023 highs and lows.
Why wouldn't we discuss Collingwood's success?!
Or the Matilda's terrific World Cup campaign.
Why wouldn't we discuss the demise of the Roosters?
Hope you have enjoyed the podcast in 2023, we look forward to bringing you more in 2024.
After a mini hiatus the Boys come back to break down the West Tigers dismantle, the AFL Draft, Rugby demise and even the Netball Australia outcome.
ODI Cricket World Cup heating up and thankfully so are the Aussies
Rugby World Cup Final
Cox plate - listen to the boys and their bet
NBA kicks off
AFL keeps giving
PIES get the GF done and what a ride it was for Cotto
Great weekend of Footy with exciting NRL GF as well
Grahams and a Mic hold their very own referendum
Listen today and see what you think!!!
This episode is dedicated to the Australian Soldiers who have fought for the democracy we have enjoyed for so long now, life could have been very different.
Also a special reach out the Singleton AFL Roosters who have been so strong despite the horrendous bus tragedy in recent months.
And a very big shout out to Goulburn Workers FC.
Men and Womens Ashes Series kicks off with victories
Tim Tsyzu wins big with an unexpected knock out
French youngster Victor Wembanyama (7'4) drafted #1 in the NBA
NRL State of Origin kicks off, NSW throw away game one opportunity
Ben Hunt wants out
Cricket - Ashes begin
NRL - SOO Game 2 - Injuries and Nico Hynes left out
- Chooks imploding
AFL - Tackling rules confusing and reactionary.
Boxing - Tim Tsyzu big fight v Ocampo
Golf - Liv Golf/PGA merger or is it?
NBA - Denver wins its first ever Championship - Jokic compared with best big men ever
Cotto and Axel have to step up as usual as we wait on Kel. Listen to the stories we tell when he is not around.
AFL - League passes the ball to Hawks after reaching an agreement with former players.
NRL - State of Origin game 1 analysis
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Both major Australian Sports code commit to the YES campaign for the recognition of the First Nations Voice to parliament
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Clarkson stands down from coaching after Hawks saga drags on
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PVL blindsided by UFC 293
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Pies withdraw their Netball team
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AFL/NRL - Indigenous Rounds
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Dragons coach sacked (1st for 2023) not unexpected
AFL - Tassie AFL Team and Stadium confirmed.
NRL - Magic round takes off.
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Tigers defeat Penrith last week (WTF)
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Chairman PVL off to Las Vegas
Boxing - Garside charged with alleged Domestic Violence
Football (Womens World Cup) broadcasting concerns
AFL - Daicos brothers along with the PIES brothers overcome Essendon and send a clear message about their ability to contribute to a possible Title in 2023.
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Booing of Jason Horne-Francis doesnt make sense
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AFL announces $240m contribution to Tassie stadium
NRL - Wighton to Souths and Souths firming in 2023 without him, how good will they be?
NRL news - Roosters drop prodigy Sam Walker
- Jack Wighton firming for move to Souths
Ashes Squad launched
AFL - One of the biggest games on the Calendar (PIES vs Bombers)
- Tasmania finally get their AFL Team, including a new stadium.
- NRL Magic Round
- Boxing, F1 and much much more.
Jack Wighton is off to Souths and The Pies defeat the Bombers and Nick Daicos in his second year continues to stamp his mark.
Can the Aussies bounce back from humiliating series in India?
Can the boys pick the NRL top 8 in 2023?
Listen as the boys literally shit themselves. Witness the largest crack of thunder you will ever hear. Captured on air.
2023 Arrives and believe or not the boys agree to come back to support that single listener
As Cotto predicted the PIES defeated Carlton and cement 4th spot and in the process knock Carlton out of the finals race.
Listen as AXEL concedes to the PIES greatness!!!!
After a few cases of COVID a trip or two overseas - 3 Grahams and a Mic are back.
Big news with Clarkson going to the Kangaroos.
Can the PIES knock the Blues out of contention?
With the Federal elections just around the corner its hard not to be political and politically incorrect.
3 Grahams and a Mic want to send our thoughts and prayers to all of the families affected by the invasion of Ukraine
How do clubs create their vision and implement it?
NRL preview and predictions
NEXT WEEK - AFL Preview
Where do you sit? Are you a win at all costs competitor or win but keep your dignity competitor? Listen to what the boys think.
Which big name AFL Player may not play in 2022 due to his stance on Covid Vaccination?
Elise Perry dropped from Aussie side
Ash Barty on track
Highest T20 score in history achieved in Australia
Sorry about the Cicadas - the risk associated with outdoor podcasts
Happy New Year from the Largest Southern Hemisphere MAN CAVE
- We discuss Novaxx DJokovic and his Australian Visa
- Poms miserable effort in the Ashes series
- Kel's questionable Wedding night celebrations, and
- Kel's new Japanese Business Venture
Oh yeah the noise you can hear is the crickets its all part of the atmosphere
Listen to the last podcast for 2021 - all the way from Axels' Giant man cave.
You know its big when you fill in a 50metre pool to fit the man cave in
On a serious note we check out the Ashes and preview the F1 Battle Royale
Listen to the boys analysis of the First Ashes Test and how media channels are damaging sport and society.
T20 World Cup De Kock controversy
T20 weekly rap
Why is there more female athletes that have come out than male?
Listen to the guys analysis of the Cox Plate and T20 World Cup and then ignore all of it!!!
Listen to why Cotto gets off on Kel!!!
NRL Grand Final analysis
AFL Trade Week successes and failures
Cotto is dedicated this podcast to all the tragic Souffs fans out there, especially SM
Have the boys correctly predicted the NRL Grandfinal?
Listen to who Cotto thinks will win the Clive Churchill medal for best on ground....it's out there, even for Cotto
Who wins the 2021 AFL Grand Final?
Listen to the boys analysis and gibberish.
Learn why Kel kicked his dog!!!
Sorry PETA, I cant say for sure it didn't happen or that there was no injury to their beloved family pet!!!
Tennis - Barty wins, new sensation discovered,
Basketball - Ben Simmons refuses to turn out for 76ers practice
Rugby - Siebold joins Eddie Jones
Boxing - Tim Tszyu gets world title shot
Cricket - England v India test decider
NFL - Another Aussie punter joins the big time
F1 - Spa Rap
Golf - Cameron Smith (The guy with the mullet) shanks it
Para-Olympics - Prime Minister guarantees equal pay for gold medal winners
AFL - Finals underway and bigger news about one of the WAGS
Soccer - Socceroos win 9 in a row
NRL - Finals positioning
Listen to the boys critique the AFL finals.
Did you think we would make it through the season?
Emma McKeon on track to win 4th Gold and 5th in 2 Olympic games.
A total of 11medals, greatest ever by an Australian.
Cotto celebrates 50 with the boys
Penrith towel up the Roosters
Souths flog the Broncos
Radley kicked off a flight
Concerns about Aussie Cricket workload
AFL sees common sense in what could have been a game changing decision
Huni defeats Gallen
Euro League update
Macpostecoglu - Australia's finest Football Coach Ange Postcoglu to coach Celtic
Nathan Buckles - Nathan Buckley resigns
Aussie's Highest Paid Non-Round Ball Footballer -Michael Dickson
Perverts at the Pool - Maddie Groves sends a bombshell post
Ollie Robinson Suspended
NBA Joker wins MVP - Denvers' Nikola Jokic wins MVP as finals commence
Formula 1 is Sexy again!!!
Will Kel quit? Listen to the debate on high tackle crackdowns and what has lit Kel's fuse.
Who will win the clash of the titans.
Its on Carlton (Axel) vs Hawks (Kel), who will win?
Cotto's cant fail tip!!!
The Boys return after a weeks spell.
Look into why Ash Barty likes pottery and what happened to Stuart MacGill.
With more than 350,000 people being diagnosed with in India every day; and more than 3,500 dying daily. The boys debate whether the IPL should run or be cancelled.
What do you think?
Listen to Australia's most authentic podcast. Where the 3 Grahams tear into the NRL and Each other.
What sport, or sporting teams can hold the title for the world's greatest rivalries?
Listen to the boys as they look at it through their lens.
Also, Cotto scores a win (again) in the Weekly Wager.
Jump on listen to the guys as they work through the AFL Goat, is it Gary Ablett Junior or Senior, Is it Buddy?
Listen to Axel and the boys AFL predictions for 2021.
Kel's multi pick - Chelsea into Leicester and Man Utd, as well as some Nag.
Check out the boys predictions for the 2021 season. Also check out how Axel screwed Cotto's successful tip.
Check out this weeks review of how the Aussie Mens Cricket team performed and Kel's quiz on American Football.
Apologies to our listeners for the drawn out content.
Kel put together the runsheet for this episode.
We will do better next episode we promise. Cotto.
Ps Don't tell Kel!!!!
That’s a wrap for us for the weird old year that was 2020. We’ve had a great time doing the podcast and look forward to being back in the new year. Thanks to all our loyal listeners out there, we really appreciate you listening in Cody. We hope you all have a happy and safe festive season and don’t forget to like us on facebook. We hope you enjoy the 1 hour special.
Listen to the Boys analysis of each AFL team as they negotiate their way through the complex 2021 AFL Trade period.
Kel turns up in a suit and discusses the sport of swinging.
We all have the Australian Traditional wager on the Melbourne Cup.
Kel - Ashrun
Axel - Avilius
Cotto - Tiger Moth
Check out the results and see who came within a whisker!!!!
Recording today on AFL Grand Final Day and in honor of all those out there preparing for the AFL Grand Final today and the NRL tomorrow we are dedicating the entire show to everyone who is or has endured the Pandemic and found some solace in watching these great sports.
With the NRL and AFL finals now upon us, after the most unusual year possibly in their history. Kel, Axel and Cotto take a look at the chances of the teams in the finals and a look at those that didn't make it and their future chances.
The boys review the most bizarre AFL and NRL season, where we began with no crowds in many stadiums. Games postponed for over two months with an entire re-arrangement of competitions. Teams traveling and staying in hubs, crowds of very small numbers.
After all that we have arrived at the conclusion of the home-and-away season, meaning it’s finals time!
In addition the podcast looks at the career of the late great criketer Dean "Deano" Jones.
See some of the research that went into this weeks episode.
In no way do we condone abuse of referees or umpires. We just hoped to highlight the complexity surrounding referees and umpires.
Officiating is frequently in the spotlight for determining the outcome of games. But should it be?
Nobody goes to a sporting event to watch the referees, umpires or officials. It’s just a simple fact of sports. People watch or attend games to root for their team, the athletes that play the game or the sport itself.
Officials are necessary to police the game, and while they’re an important component to sports, they shouldn’t stand out. They should simply blend into the background and let players play the game.
But between video replay, coaching challenges and a greater attention to player safety, game officials have more influence over the outcomes of games than ever before, for better or worse.
As the emphasis on player safety continues to grow, it’s more important than ever for officials to help enforce and maintain proper rules. It is, after all, their job to ensure the game is played safely. And that’s especially true in sports today, where rules are constantly evolving to protect players.
Those rules, however, might be giving officials too much influence. By allowing them to have more judgment on things like contact and what constitutes a safe hit versus a dangerous one means there is no consistency in calls from play-to-play and game-to-game. Goals, drives, games and seasons sometimes come down to one official’s interpretation of an ever-changing rule or a judge being overly cautious.
And it’s not just professional sports, but all ranks and ages. Nothing is more maddening then watching your team’s defense end a drive with a great coverage play, only for the drive to be kept alive by a ticky-tack low hit on the other side of the field that didn’t affect the outcome. Or a power play that’s awarded for aggressive-looking contact that doesn’t actually cause any harm.
The same is true for things like instant replay and coaching challenges. There is a seemingly endless need for games to be played to perfection, with every call scrutinized and replayed over and over. But getting rid of the human error has only put a brighter spotlight on officials, particularly when calls are still made incorrectly after being reviewed.
In the past, a call was made or a call was missed. Those were just the breaks of the game, and athletes were taught to overcome the uncontrollable and keep playing hard. That’s what sports are all about; athletes and coaches are always striving for perfection, but athletics are simply random.
But instant replay is not going away. If anything, it is only going to increase in usage. And keeping athletes safe isn’t just a fad, but the present and future of sports. So the question becomes: Where do we draw the line on officials influencing the outcomes?
Football referees: death threats, physical violence and verbal abuse are all part of the job
Most spectators will have witnessed a situation where an official is harassed for making an unfavourable call. Whether it is a professional footballer insulting the referee’s mother, or parents of junior players threatening officials at a local five-a-side match, abusing the ref has become a “normal” part of football.
Match officials encounter an array of hostile behaviours from players, coaches and spectators ranging from verbal abuse to physical assault. The most common form of abuse exhibited is verbal aggression, with 64% of match officials in one study claiming to have frequently experienced such actions, followed by threats (36%). Worryingly 15% of the match officials reported physical abuse while on the job – and it’s not rare for match officials to be hospitalised as a result of physical attacks.
Emotional impact Exposure to abuse can have adverse effects on an official’s performance, many referees report a loss in concentration and motivation after being criticised by players and spectators. And more serious effects of abuse can also develop long after the game. Research has shown that exposure to similar forms of abuse within other occupational settings can have numerous psychological consequences – including an increase in anxiety levels.
The damaging effects of this abuse are reflected in the dwindling referee retention rates – with more referees quitting their jobs due to being constantly abused. This is likely to lead to a reduction in skilled match officials. And with referees playing a significant role to ensure that football is played fairly and correctly, this can only result in poorer quality games at all levels.
Why the abuse? Players and spectators often engage in abusive behaviour in part due to what’s known as “in-game triggers”. These can be frustrations towards a decision they believe to be unfair – or as a method of externalising their problems in the game. Many people also use interpersonal conflict with the referee in an attempt to influence future refereeing decisions.
Such abuse is frequently demonstrated by players and managers at the highest level of football – who often face little consequences for their actions. As a result, these actions are seen as acceptable conduct by viewers and spectators. And it normalises the behaviour as an integral part of football. This allows players and spectators to emulate the actions in future matches with little consideration of the moral implications.
Children, teenagers and even adults frequently try to imitate the mannerisms of their favourite footballers – be it copying their hairstyles or their skills when playing the game. One reason for this copycat behaviour is what social psychologists refer to as “vicarious reinforcement”. This is the act of imitating another person, in an attempt to reap the same rewards as them.
Now ask yourself, what would be going through a junior player’s mind when they witness a successful footballer they look up to shouting at the referee for giving a decision against their team.
How much do they get paid?
In 2018, The NRL referees union was seeking a pay rise that would result in the game’s top whistle-blower earning a wage less than that of the average NRL player.
Fairfax Media can reveal the Professional Rugby League Match Officials is seeking a 30 per cent pay increase for its members over the next four years. If granted, the single best referee in the game would stand to earn about $315,000 once Test and State of Origin commitments are factored in. To put that into perspective, the average wage for players under the new collective bargaining agreement rises to $330,000.
How much influence can a referee or umpire have?
Former NBA referee Tom Donaghy received a 15-month prison term in connection with a gambling scandal that tarnished professional basketball.
A federal judge also sentenced the disgraced referee to three years of probation. Donaghy pleaded guilty to two felony charges of conspiracy to engage in wire fraud and transmitting wagering information on interstate commerce.
The betting scandal damaged the NBA's credibility, which had already faced allegations that playoff games were fixed to extend the length of rounds and ensure that large market teams advanced.
NBA referees already are the most influential in any professional sport; disgraced ref Tim Donaghy claims that referees altered the outcome of the 2002 Western Conference Finals, and while it has never been proven, it has never been disproven, either.
The ‘Hand of God’ Diego Maradona’s infamous handball for Argentina, which knocked England out of the 1986 World Cup quarter-finals, is perhaps the most famous (or infamous) refereeing gaffe of all time.
Tunisian official Ali Bin Nasser later blamed a haemorrhoid treatment for affecting his sight and causing him to miss it.
ANASTA PENALISED FOR BEING PUNCHED IN THE FACE It appears Cummins has a history of punishing the wrong bloke.
In 2007, Braith Anasta was penalised after being on the receiving end of a David Fa'alogo punch to the head.
After making a tackle on the Souths forward, Anasta is smacked in the nose before he even knows what happened.
Stunned, Anasta tells Cummins immediately: "You're off your head! You're off your head!"
He later tells reporters: "[Cummins] listened to the crowd. He should check his undies seriously. I've never seen anyone give in to the crowd like he did."
HAND OF KIERAN
You may have heard about this one over the weekend, given the Cowboys were once again the team robbed.
In last year's semi-final, Kieran Foran rises above Johnathan Thurston and palms the ball forward in the lead-up to a 63rd minute try that helps Manly to a 22-12 victory.
Video referees Steve Clark and Paul Simpkins award the try, only for ref bosses Stuart Raper and Bill Harrigan to confirm the decision is incorrect 24 hours later.
Foran initially denies he touched it but - after watching the replays - later admits he most certainly did.
'Worst in history': NRL world in disbelief over grand final 'travesty'
The Sydney Roosters have become the first team to record back-to-back premierships in 26 years, however their 14-8 NRL grand final win over Canberra will be remembered for all the wrong reasons.
With the scores tied at 8-8, the Raiders had the Roosters on the rack and looked to have earned a repeat set when Tedesco failed to reel in a Jack Wighton bomb.
Cummins waved his arms in the air to signal six again but, when Wighton was tackled with the ball, they ruled a turnover.
Matt Giteau even wrote:
What was that?!! 6 to go, 6 to go…..oh no I have changed my mind
I play UNION and even know that isn’t right… Next minute try to Roosters
Are Refs Biased?
What factors, if any, influence the way refs call a game?
That old myth of home field bias isn’t a myth at all; it’s a statistical fact.
There's a small amount of research out there that explores this very topic. Three economists published a study in the Journal of the Royal Statistical Society that looked at 1,000 cricket matches from 1986 to 2012. Researchers found some insights that could translate to just about any sport. The team concluded that even referees that were specifically chosen to be impartial sided had a 10 to 16 percent bias toward the home team.
Scorecasting, a book published in 2012 by Toby Moskowitz and Jon Wertheim, took a similar look at American football. The authors found that NFL home teams held a 57.3 percent home field advantage. The authors point to referees as a major factor in this data. When NFL refs throw flags, it rallies the home team fans which could prompt the refs to throw flags more and more in favor of the home team.
Read More: The Hidden Psychology of the Home Ref http://www.psmag.com/navigation/books-and-culture/hidden-psychology-home-ref-96565/ "That old myth of home field bias isn't a myth at all; it's a statistical fact."
'Impartial' Refs May Make Calls to Favor Home Team, Subconsciously http://bigthink.com/ideafeed/impartial-refs-may-make-subconscious-biased-calls-to-favor-home-team "Fans like to blame refs' bad calls on biased. Some think this tactic is used to mask their team's defeat. But the home field advantage may not be the myth some people think it is. It's a statistical fact, according to three economists."
Soccer Referees Do Favor Home Teams, Study Shows http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/10/061030120410.htm "Academics have proved what football (soccer) managers in the English Premiership have been complaining about for years -- that referees are inconsistent and favor home teams."
Referees Prefer Athletes in Red http://www.livescience.com/2772-referees-prefer-athletes-red.html "When referees see red, they don't get angry. They may actually favor the competitor in scarlet attire, a new study suggests."
World Football's 25 Best Chants http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1549731-world-footballs-25-best-chants/page/23
NHL official becomes the most hated American in Russia: Protesters threaten to kill US hockey referee and turn him into SOAP as they blame him for Games loss to States http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2561764/American-hockey-referee-hated-man-Sochi-calling-goal-U-S-favor-inciting-Cold-War-fury-victory-game-against-Russia.html
3 Grahams and a Mic delve into what Sporting Clubs need to do to rebuild their club. From the Board room to the playing field.
Club Sport in Crisis
In May and June a survey to assess the impact of COVID-19 on community sport revealed more than 16,000 of these local Australian sports clubs are at risk of closure due to financial losses and new costs associated with COVID-19.
Club sport is in crisis
COVID-19 has created a crisis that threatens the existence of thousands of community sport clubs across Australia, and the communities of members, volunteers, coaches, and families that are involved with them. This survey reveals that community sport’s shutdown has damaged the physical and mental health of millions of Australians.
Key findings include:
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93% of all clubs surveyed have lost money since the onset of COVID-19, caused by a steep decline in revenues and the need to pay ongoing costs;
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Up to 80% of clubs forecast ongoing reductions in core revenue streams (such as memberships, local sponsorships and community fundraising), while 97% of all clubs surveyed face additional COVID-19 related costs;
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These new financial realities threaten the sustainability of community sports clubs. Around one in four respondents cited organisational solvency as a major concern - meaning over 16,000 community sports clubs are at risk of closure if financial support is not provided;
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COVID-19 has also significantly impacted Australia’s 3 million sporting volunteers, with up to 43% of sports clubs projecting a decline in volunteering, contributing further to fears about the sustainability of many local community sports clubs.
Research
https://covid.sportsfoundation.org.au/
https://goodsports.com.au/impact-covid-19-gs-clubs/
https://www.ais.gov.au/health-wellbeing/covid-19
https://www.smh.com.au/sport/we-fear-for-our-sport-counting-the-cost-of-covid-19-for-community-clubs-20200519-p54ufp.html
Kel, Axel and Cotto take a close look at what has happened with the Broncos. Coach sackings, shareholder discontent, as well as questionable coach and player behaviour; provide plenty of discussion points.
Kel, Axel and Cotto look at the impact of Social Media, Trolls and bullying. As well as looking at the top 3 Indigenous sportspeople in Australia, as well as naming the best AFL and NRL indigenous teams. Kel also runs the gauntlet with comments about his better half.
Listen to Kel, Axel and Cotto as they look delve into the value of culture in high performing sporting teams.
What is culture?
A culture is simply the collection of beliefs on which people build their behavior.
The boys compare two types of culture Performance-driven culture and Growth Culture
Looking at key areas of a High Performing Team culture such as:
- Common purpose
- Agreed behavioural framework
- Strong professional relationships
Why not join them and consider if your favourite team or player illustrates a positive culture?
3 Grahams dissect the Sydney Roosters NRL Salary Cap. Cotto almost forgets his co-hosts' names.