COLTS SEASON BEGINS SOON
It's Colts time again and here is a little info that was sent out to under 18's who want to play.


WELCOME TO THE NORTHWESTERN PREDATORS

A Bit about the Predators

The Predators are a relatively young organisation in Gridiron NSW.

The Predators were started by President and Club Head Coach Mark Levin. After becoming a Championship winning coach in the Victorian Gridiron Football League, Coach Levin brought his experience up north.

The Predators have now been together as a club since the beginning of 2005. In that short time we’ve achieved a fair bit and proven that this club belongs in the best gridiron competition in Australia.

Some Achievements

• Coach of the Year 2005 – Mark Levin
• Senior Australian Outback Representative – Mark Livy
• Colts Australian Outback Representative – Brent Parker
• 2008 Senior NSW Wolfpack Head Coach – Mark Levin
• 2008 Luke Robinson Predators Under 18 player awarded a scholarship to US High School

Our Philosophy

Many consider the Predators to be a teaching club. Whilst that is still true in part, we are now aiming to take the next step forward. We will continue to teach the game of American Football to all that join us. However our emphasis has developed from being a club that’ll challenge others, to a club that’ll beat all-comers.

About the Predators Colts Program

Here are some basic facts:

• Age – Boys can start playing as soon as they turn 14. They can continue to play until they turn 18 prior to the season starting. Therefore, a 17-year-old whose birthday is on the 2nd of January is eligible for the Colts in spite of the fact that the Season starts end of February / early March.

• Fees – On top of the Gear Hire the Predators charge $250 to play for the Club. This covers:
o League Registration
o Limited Individual Insurance
o Ground and Facility Hire
o Training and Playing Equipment
Should you wish to discuss a payment plan for the upcoming season, please speak to the Colts Team Manager Sandi Hill on 0422 829 471.

• Medical Information – The Predators ask for all players to be open and honest with any medical conditions or former injuries prior to beginning training with the side. This is to ensure that no unnecessary strain is placed on the player and, in the case of an emergency; we can be on top of the situation.
Please see Page 5 for more information.

• Gear – American Football is famous for its padding. The Gridiron NSW Colts Division runs in FULL GEAR. Therefore the team will be required to be suited up for every game. The Predators provide a full uniform to all new recruits for a gear hire fee. For the 2009 season that is $100, of which $50 is returnable when the gear is handed back at the end of the season. Further, should you be interested in buying your own gear, the Predators have various contacts that import American Football equipment into Australia.
Please see Page 6 for more information.

There are some items players will need to provide for themselves. They include:
o Mouthguard (You can purchase one from the club for $5)
o Black playing socks (You can purchase Club socks for $10)
o Astroturf boots (Speak to a Coach about where to find these).

• Seven-Man Football – Anyone who has watched American Football on television before will be used to the Eleven Man version of the game. The Under-18 Colts Division of Gridiron NSW plays the Australian approved Seven Man game instead. This version allows for rule modifications that facilitate to players as young as 14 playing alongside 17 and 18-year-olds. It is a structured and safer model. It also assists in the development of the Colts so as to make for an easier transition to the main Eleven Man senior version of the game.

• Training – The 2009 Colts Team training session looks as follows:
o Preseason (Pre Christmas) – Tuesday & Thursday evenings from 7.00 pm until 9.00 pm.
o Preseason (Post Christmas) – Wednesday & Friday evenings from 7.00 pm until 9.00 pm.
o In Season – Wednesday evenings from 7.00 pm until 9.00 pm.
All Practice Sessions will be held at Sir Thomas Mitchell Reserve, Alexander Street, Dundas Valley
Please see Page 8 for more information.

• Games – The start date for the 2009 Season is yet to be scheduled, but is believed to be Friday 6 February 2009.
Games are played on Friday nights (starting either at 7:00pm or 8:30pm and running for about 90 minutes). The main grounds that the Colts play at are:
o The Hockey Grounds at Pennant Hills Park, off Britannia Street, Pennant Hills (our Home Ground)
o UWS Nepean Hockey Fields, off O’Connor Street, Kingswood
o St George Hockey Centre, Tancred Avenue (off Mutch Avenue), Kyeemagh
o Craik Park, Twelfth Avenue, Austral

• Transport – Naturally, most of our Colts players rely on parents for a lift to and from training and games. As this can often be an additional week-in-week-out burden to most parents, the Predators encourage players and parents to work together to ease the load. Car-pooling has been very successful in the past with more parents keen to help out so that the team does well. The key to this is the Team Contact Sheet which will be published on a regular basis throughout the season. Should you need and information regarding contacting any of your team mates you can also contact your Team Manager Sandi Hill for details.

Registration Day

This year Registration Day will be held on Sunday 16 November 2008 at our training venue at Sir Thomas Mitchell Reserve, Alexander Street, Dundas Valley commencing at 1.00 pm and concluding at 3.00 pm.

On this day there is the opportunity for parents and prospective players to meet the coaches and administrators of the club discuss any issues you may have about playing or your parents may have about you playing.

At this time we ask that you bring along your completed registration and at least TWO Passport Photos (a Gridiron NSW requirement) and medical forms (as this will save a lot of time), all your questions and your enthusiasm.

We will have some equipment on hand to try on so you can feel what it is like. For returning players in particular we will have advice available for those wanting to purchase their own gear.

Predators Online

For more information on the Predators organisation or Gridiron NSW in general, go to the respective websites:

• NorthWestern Predators – www.predatorsgridiron.com
• Gridiron NSW – www.nswgfl.org.au

Refund Policy

The Predators understand that some children show all the desire in the world to play a sport and when, after parents have spent a lot of money in getting them registered and fitted out, the child decides not to participate.

As the sport of American Football is unusual for most and, to encourage children to participate or at very least try the sport, the Predators offer what we think to be a fairly unique opportunity.

We have no control over equipment purchases and, once they have been paid for and ordered, no refund is possible (including Socks). However, we will do our utmost to assist in the on selling of the equipment purchased should your child give up the sport.

As far as the Club Fee portion of the registration is concerned we are and can be far more flexible. If, after trying the sport, your child decides he does not wish to continue and no insurance claim is being made on his behalf for injury and we have more than 2 weeks remaining before the start of the season (prior to Friday, 30/01/09 we can refund the fees paid including the equipment hire fee if applicable (once equipment is returned).

We trust all parents will understand once we get close to the season starting we have to spend money in preparation. We have tried to leave this refund option to the last possible minute before that expenditure has to be made.

Should you require further clarification regarding this refund policy please do not hesitate to speak to either:
Colts Team Manager Sandi Hill (0422 829 471)

Colts Coaching Team

Head Coach – Nadim Sharbean

Nadim is a 13 year veteran of American Football, starting his career in 1995 with the now defunct Manly Redbacks. He has represented the NSW Wolfpack (State Team) on numerous occasions and, in 2000, represented NSW in the Colts Touring side to the USA. This is his third season as Head Coach of the Colts and is looking for great things from the talented squad. Nadim is also the current Team Captain of the Predators Senior team.

Experience: 13 Years – Playing; 3 Years – Coaching
Playing Position: Middle Linebacker
Contact: (M) 0407 754 075 (E) nadoom75@gmail.com
Address: 38/121 Pacific Highway, Hornsby

Assistant Coach – Phil Calloway

Phil is one of the founding members of the Predators and his leadership has seen him be unanimously voted as one of the Senior Team Captain’s for the past two years. His keen intellect and unique vision have made him an open-minded Coach who tries to catch opponents by surprise. As a player, his presence in the trenches inspires his teammates. He looks to have the same impact with the Colts from the sideline.

Experience: 5 Years – Playing; 3 Years – Coaching
Playing Position: Defensive End
Contact: (M) 0413 048 666 (E) phil@controlledchaos.tv
Address: 6/58 St Albans Street, Abbotsford

In Addition…

Due to the ‘family’ nature of the Predators organisation, the Colts will have the benefit of many senior players assisting them during the coming season. Whilst they will only be able to commit to the occasional training session, their experience and intelligence will be a valuable source from which the Colts can learn.

Welcome to the Team

Hopefully this Welcome Pack covers as many questions you may have about playing football with the Predators. However, should you have any other issues, please feel free to contact me at any time.

Glad to have you on our side,





Sandi Hill
Team Manager - Colts
The NorthWestern Predators
P: 0422 829 471
E: suppy64@bigpond.com



2008 Pre Season Set To Begin
June 29, 2008 Predators Senior Pre-Season is about to begin

1PM - 4PM SUNDAY 6TH JULY

Sir Thomas Mitchell Reserve
Alexander St
Dundas Valley

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT - SANDI HILL ON 0422 829 471

Twinkie to the US
AMERICAN TWINKIE
By NCS #75

When Predators Colts Head Coach, Nadim Sharbean, labelled 15-year-old Luke Robinson ‘Twinkie’ last season, he did so because he saw something special in the player.

“I remembered 1997, when I first met Cameron ‘Twinkie’ Lawrence (Sydney Uni Seniors LG),” explains Sharbean, “He was a dominating player with a huge future ahead of him. I could see the same thing in Luke.”

The coach wasn’t wrong. In February, Robinson became the first Australian to ever be chosen by the USA Football International Student Program. With a two-year scholarship to the American High School of his choice, Robinson’s future may go beyond being just ‘huge’.

“I’m really looking forward to it,” says the bashful, Robinson, “I knew the Coaches were trying for something like this but I didn’t really think it’d happen.”

Robinson undersells himself. Beneath the watchful eye of Club President Mark Levin, who coached the Colts side in 2006, a 14-year-old Robinson discovered that American Football was more than just a way to stay fit in the rugby off-season.

“He was a quiet kid, with a layer of baby fat,” recalls Levin, “but he had immense potential, a lot of heart and just took to the game.”

When the football season rolled around a year later, Robinson returned with the same enthusiasm, looking to have a bigger impact in the sport. Unfortunately, the impact he received lead to a broken arm and missing seven games.

“I thought we’d lose him,” admits Sharbean, “Usually, when kids sustain an injury like that, their parents yank them out of the sport and retire them. But Twinkie wouldn’t have a bar of it. He kept coming to training sessions and games, cheering the boys on every week.”

Robinson’s arm healed in time for the last game, and it was in that game, in front of the NSW Colts Head Coach, Mike Sea, that Robinson earned his spot on the NSW side.

“He played an amazing game that day,” says Levin, “It was as if he was making up for the seven he missed.”

He didn’t stop there, impressing the Australian Outback Head Coach, Paul Manera, at the National Championships.

“At first he wasn’t sure if I was ready for the US,” says Robinson, “But he pushed for me and set me up with a training program to get myself prepared.”

Now he has six months, and one last season of Colts football, to get himself in top shape for the American High School system.

“It’s a different world over there,” says Sharbean, who once trained with an American High School side, “They train three to four times a day. Not a week, like us.”

Yet Robinson says he’s ready for the challenge, and his first coach believes there’s more ahead of him.

“The (USA Football International Student) Program is a wonderful development for our sport,” says Levin, “Luke’s going to get a great opportunity, and may be able expand it into college football career.”

When asked about College Twinkie could only give his reserved, brace-laced grin. After all, American College seems a world a way for a local, sixteen-year-old boy.


Lions show Predators how its done
October 27, 2007 Lions 44 Predators 12

Report to Follow

Game Six Season 2007
NW Predators vs University of Sydney Lions

A 44-12 scoreline may sound like a beating to most, but Northwestern Predators Head Coach Mark Levin called the weekend’s loss to Champs the Syd Uni Lions, “a good loss.”

“We stayed with it all game long and fought for everything,” he explained, “However, we just weren’t ready to win this game. Our Defence is good, but you need to cover everything against the Lions. Our Offence played well, but that’s not enough to get into the endzone.”

In spite of the obvious disappointment, most of the Preds’ senior players agreed.

“I’m heart-broken,” said QB Jimmy McEnaney, “We were in it right until half time.”

In fact, the game looked very close with 15 seconds to go in the first half. The Predators’ Defence had minimized the damage from the Lions’ high-powered Offence. And, on the other side of the ball, the Preds’ were beginning to make serious gains with their smash-mouth run game. On 4th-and-Goal at the 6-yard line the Preds opted to kick the Field Goal, hoping to cut the Lions’ lead to 10 points. Yet the long snap was muffed and the Lions recovered on their 28-yard line with 3 seconds left on the clock.

“We called a Nickel Package,” Captain MLB Nadim Sharbean said of the D that came on the field, “We wanted to prevent any deep passes.”

They did. The Lions’ QB was forced to dump underneath to an open WR. What followed was an upsetting moment. Breaking the initial tackle, the Lions’ receiver ran the ball across field and hit open space, racing it back for a 72-yard TD.

“We went from looking at a 10-point deficit to a 26-6 half time,” said McEnaney, “It’s on us [the Offence]. We shouldn’t have put the D back on the field. We keep doing that to them and it’s not fair.”

The second half was little better. The Offence continued to struggle in the red zone. They could reach there no problem, with big back Michael ‘McFly’ Kline carrying the team on his shoulders. However, within sniffing distance, they failed to complete the drive.

The Defence also had consistency issues, continually holding the Lions to third down before letting them out of the hole by allowing big plays.

“For the first time I thought we had a shot at them,” said SS Andy Hilton, “But we won’t get there if we don’t step it up in games like this. You can’t allow a quality side like the Lions as many opportunities as we gave them.”

The Preds will have to be more efficient next Saturday as they come up against play-off hopefuls, Sutherland. The Seahawks were thoroughly belted by a depleted Outlaws side. They’ll be keen to bounce back and end the Preds’ play-off aspirations.

“They’ll come out strong, they always do,” Sharbean said, “But we’re not about to give up the ghost now. The play-offs are still in front of us. We want in.”

OFFENSIVE MVP: Michael Kline
DEFENSIVE MVP: Eden Barros


Predators Playoff Hopes in Jeopardy
November 5, 2012 Game Seven Season 2007
NW Predators vs Sutherland Seahawks

The playoff hopes of the Northwestern Predators were dealt a massive blow by the Sutherland Seahawks last Saturday.

The two sides were never meant to be so close, with the Predators heavy favourites to take this one out. Yet the Seahawks air attack was brilliant, and they toasted the vaulted Preds Defence for the 44-19 win.

“They found our weaknesses and exploited them perfectly,” Head Coach Mark Levin admitted, “They came out ready to play and didn’t take their foot off the gas. Our guys – to their credit – tried to come back. But it was too late.”

The Seahawks put a touchdown on the board in the very first drive, moving at will against the same defence that caused the Champions Sydney University Lions so much trouble.

“It shocked a lot of our boys,” said Captain MLB Nadim Sharbean, “I think everyone got too caught up in our own hype. Before we knew it we were in a hole.”

Further, the Predators’ awesome running game began to lose traction. After steam-rolling deep into enemy territory, the O repeatedly faltered, leaving far too many points on the table.

“That’s not fair on our Defence,” QB James McEnaney said afterwards, “Our boys were asked time and time again to go out and get the ball back for us. And then we couldn’t reward them by putting up the scores we needed.”

The loss does huge damage to the Predators’ play-off hopes. With three games left, the boys know they must win them all to be playing come December.

“The season boils down to the next four weeks,” explained Coach Levin, “We’ve got three games – two against teams we’ve already lost to – and we’ve got to get them all. No one will be happy otherwise.”

This weekend is step one, against the Bondi Raiders. The Preds took a 14-6 win out of their first meeting, but both teams have grown since then.

“This is it, this is where we find out how much we want it,” said Sharbean, “Talking about it is one thing. Now we’ve got to prove it on the field.”

MVPs – Defense Michael George
Offense None Awarded


Game Six Preview – Tall Task Ahead
October 26, 2007 The Northwestern Predators face a very hefty challenge to maintain the high that they’ve been feeling for the last week. After securing the upset win in Round 5, the Preds will have to lift their game to near perfection to beat this week’s opponent – the 5-0 Sydney University Lions.

“Head Coach Levin says they’re the best club in the State,” says Defensive Coach Paul Hill, “That’s under-selling them. They’re probably the best club in the country. Their offence is sharp; their defence is in your face; and they walk with a swagger they’ve earned.”

To a degree even Coach Hill is cutting it short. The Lions have dominated the NSWGFL for four years running. Since getting pipped in the finals in 2002 they’ve gone on a tear, losing 2 games in 50 outings and claiming four championships along the way. They’ve played the Preds twice and both games have seen the Lions take convincing wins by a combined score of 79-14.

“Some of them don’t even know what it’s like to lose,” jokes Preds OLB James Hopper, who was the Lions’ 2002 Defensive Player of the Year, “They’ve been together as Colts, moved into Seniors and just keep winning. It’s the way a club should be set up. They run to the same formula we’re trying to establish here.”

The two teams also have a healthy amount of respect for each other. For the past three seasons, the Lions have been more than willing to join the Preds in preseason scrimmages, the last being this September.

“They like running against us,” says Head Coach Mark Levin, “’Cause we’re not afraid to hit with them. Some of the other teams over the years have played them soft, minimising damage. But our boys take them on. That got their respect right away.”

Indeed, as a lot of the Preds walked off the field last Saturday, many of the Lions’ were there to congratulate them.

“They’re a good bunch of guys,” admits Captain MLB Nadim Sharbean, who once also donned the infamous gold jersey, “But they treat us like their little brother, someone they like playing with and don’t really feel threatened by. We need to change that. We need to make them realise we’re here for what they’ve got. We want a championship. Whether it’s this year or in three years time, we’re going to have to go out there and take it from them.”

On Saturday as the Preds take to the field for their first ever home game, they’ll come face-to-face with the future they’re building towards. Only after the following 60 minutes will they truly know how close they are.

Kick off is 7pm at Pennant Hills Hockey Park, off Britannia Street, Pennant Hills – Go Preds!


Predators Down Pirates
October 20, 2007 Predators beat Pirates 14 - 8

Report to follow


Predators in the Play-Offs Hunt
Game Five Season 2007
NW Predators vs Western Sydney Pirates

The Northwestern Predators knew they’d have to come out strong to get a win over a quality Pirates side. Two plays into the game the Preds had a takeaway, a TD and the winning edge that they held for a 14-8 victory.

“It was a great start,” said Captain MLB Nadim Sharbean, “I envisioned coming out aggressive, to set the tempo… but I couldn’t have wished for a better play.”

The play was a forced fumble and fumble recovery that Matt Paige and Sharbean caused as they blitzed the Pirates rookie Centre, Tuck King. The deadly accurate Pirates QB, Dave Ward, made a dive for the muffed snap, but instead got caught up and re-aggravated his injured foot. He left the game when it was only ten seconds long.

“That was a major loss to their Offence,” Head Coach Mark Levin said, “We weren’t sure what it’d mean, because we had prepared for him. But their O didn’t run as smooth without him.”

The Preds Offence took advantage of having the ball on their 8 yard line, punching it in for 6 points. Rookie FB Michael ‘McFly’ Kline rumbled through the front seven for his first TD.

The Pirates struggled to get the ball moving all day, with two unproven QBs operating under Centre. In the first quarter alone they had a handful of giveaways – the third of which giving the Predators’ their second TD.

OLB Francisco Diaz, who had never before taken an interception, picked off his second pass for the day, and returned it 60 yards for the Touchdown.

“The boys gave me a hard time for not running it the first time,” Diaz said, “When I got it the ball the second time I hit the sideline and just went!”

The game got interesting again in the third quarter, when the Pirates Offence came out determined to run the ball on the Preds D. Whilst the Defence played strong, early in the fourth quarter the let in a sweep for the Pirates only TD. That was topped off with a two-pointer to bring the game within six.

Then, as the game was reaching boiling point, the Pirates benefited from 35-yards worth of penalties to get into the Predators’ red zone.

“That was tense stuff,” DT Iain Glassey joked, “I was on the sideline having a heart-attack!”

Yet the Predator’s Defence showed their worth. After a tackle in the backfield and a sack, SS Andy Hilton stepped in front of an endzone pass for the final interception of the game.

“They’re my old team,” said Hilton, “So I wanted that one bad.”

The Offence took over at the 20 yard line with two minutes to go, and ran the clock out for the win.

“This is the biggest win for this team,” Levin said afterwards, “For once we took it to a team that was meant to be much better than us. Hopefully this’ll be the turn of the corner that makes us into a play-off team.”

The Predators will need to go much farther to take down next week’s opponent, as they face the undefeated reigning Champs, the Sydney University Lions. The Lions, who watched the Preds game from the stands, have already come out to say that their looking forward to this match.

It’ll be one major upset if the Preds can get over the Lions. Yet after this win, some of the players felt overconfident.

“We’re not the rookies we used to be,” said Diaz, “We’ll be ready to run with them.”

OFFENSIVE MVP: Michael Kline
DEFENSIVE MVP: Francisco Diaz

WEEK FOUR MVPs:
OFFENSIVE MVP: Raneen Shamoon
DEFENSIVE MVP: James Hopper


Predators Keep Playoff Hopes Alive
October 14, 2007 Predators 25 Mustangs 8

Report to Follow



Predators Back on the Winner’s List
Game Four Season 2007
NW Predators vs Wollongong Mustangs

The NW Predators didn’t take long to get back to .500. With a 2 TD first quarter, the Preds put themselves in the race for a play-off spot, whilst handing the Wollongong Mustangs their fourth loss on the trot.

Once again the Preds came out strong. The run attack was in great form, moving the chains with ease. The return of Brendon ‘Doink’ Reid gave the Preds the pure half-back to compliment both power FBs, Raneen Shamoon and Michael Kline. Further, the addition of Orin Faison and Greg ‘Blossom’ Morgan to the Offensive Line proved impenetrable in the first half. Before the quarter was over the Preds had marched in for 2 TDs and a 12-0 lead.

“It was the start we were looking for,” QB James McEnaney said, “Everything seemed to be flowing beautifully. We were running strong, passing the ball and simply taking it to them. That, on top of the D’s performance, made us hard to beat.”

The Preds Defence again made a claim to be one of the elite NSWGFL units. The Stangs Offence had put up multiple TDs on both 2006 finalists, Sydney Uni and UTS. However, with 4 INTs and the front seven putting pressure on the Wollongong QBs all day, the Predators held the Stangs O to a mere 8 points.

“We challenged them to run against us,” said ILB Iain Glassey, “We knew they liked to throw, so we took that away from them.”

The first half finished 19-0, with McEnaney running in two and Shamoon adding another.

The second half wasn’t as crisp for the Preds. After RB Will Tregas broke a hole open for a 50-yard TD run to push the lead out to 25, the Offence seemed to lose momentum. Mired by penalties, and using the lead to work more on the passing game, the O had many short series, putting a lot of pressure on their D.

Finally, after three quarters of frustration, the Mustangs exercised a well-executed reverse to scamper down the sideline and cross the Preds line for the first time.

“That was heart-breaking,” said Captain MLB Nadim Sharbean, “When you’re looking at a shut-out and one play puts them on the board, you’re heart just falls. However, I was proud with how the boys rebounded from it. We didn’t give them an inch after that… it was like we found our focus once more.”

The Preds will need to keep that focus for this week’s opponent as they come up against a seething West Sydney team. The Pirates were handed a shock draw last weekend against old rivals, the Outlaws. With Pirates now at 2-1-1 and the Preds at 2-2, this game could already mean a play-off spot for the victor.

MVPs – To Be Announced


Game Five Preview – Play-Offs on Offer?
October 18, 2007 A week ago the Northwestern Predators were just trying to keep their play-off hopes alive. This week they can go one step further and practically confirm a spot.

“There are probably two spots up for grabs,” admits Vice Captain OT Phil Calloway, “The [Sydney Uni] Lions and UTS have already shown they’re a step ahead of most, but that leaves the 3 and 4 spots open.”

Last year’s other two play-off contenders, the UWS Outlaws and West Sydney Pirates, were unable to seize an opportunity last week, when they fought each other to a 32-point draw. This week the Preds will have their opportunity of also denying the Pirates, when the two teams clash.

“There will be plenty to fight for,” says Head Coach Mark Levin, “The Pirates are one of the most balanced sides in this league, playing well on both sides of the ball. But I think we’ve improved in the last couple weeks and we should give them a good game.”

The Pirates record of 2-1-1 belies just what kind of side they really are. Their only loss came in Game 1 against the Lions, and their two wins were drubbings of the Sutherland Seahawks (41-6) and the Wollongong Mustangs (59-26). They also have the second highest ranked offence this year, lead by Australian QB Dave Ward, who almost single-handedly won the last week’s game with a final scamper to the one-yard line.

“Or DBs will have to play better than they’ve played all year,” says SS Andy Hilton, a former Pirate himself, “And our D-Line will need to get into the backfield. Otherwise Dave will just pick us apart.”

This will be the third time the two teams have officially met, with both previous games going to the Pirates a combined 88-6. However this year’s teams will have some knowledge of each other after meeting for a friendly preseason warm-up match back in August. The Pirates won that game 7-0 with a lot of their starters (including Ward) unavailable.

“History has nothing to do with it,” points out QB James McEnaney, “We’re not those teams anymore, and their not the team we played at the beginning of this year. We’re both playing for our future now. That’s what this game is about.”

Kick off is once again 4pm at the UWS Nepean Hockey Fields, off O’Connor Street, Kingswood – Go Preds!


A Must Win
October 12, 2007 The hopes the Northwestern Predators have for making the play-offs this year come down to this weekend’s match against the Wollongong Mustangs. With two losses quickly souring the joy of the Preds first-ever winning record, the team is once again facing reality –it’s a long way to the top.

“Guys have been getting ahead of themselves,” says Head Coach Mark Levin, “Worrying about which team will finish where. We have to play each game as they come. And we have to start putting wins together. We can’t be in a spot where we’re worried about how another team will do.”

The Mustangs are a perfect example of a team not to take lightly. While they’re the league’s only winless team, they’ve shown glimpses of brilliance on offence over the past three weeks. Further, their defence will have improved from playing two quality sides in a row – the NSWGFL Champs, the Sydney Uni Lions and the West Sydney Pirates.

“They have some real players,” notes DE Mick George, “Watching their O against the Pirates, you could tell they were giving them trouble.”

Further, both teams have a history. When the Preds came into the league two seasons ago, the Stangs were their first-ever victim. Last year the two teams split games, with Wollongong paying the Preds back in kind for both prior losses with a shellacking in game two.

“They jumped out to a lead and ran away with it,” QB James McEnaney remembers, “We can’t give them that head start this week.”

“They’ve been in this league for a long time,” says OLB James Hopper, “That’s because they like this game and are committed to it. You give them an inch and they’ll take the game.”

The Predators no longer can talk about what they want to do. If a play-off spot is to be earned, then they have to win this one.

Kick off is 4pm at the UWS Nepean Hockey Fields, off O’Connor Street, Kingswood – Go the Preds!


Game Three Preview – Rivalry Renewed
October 3, 2007 Round Three sees the Northwestern Predators take on one of their biggest rivals, the UWS Outlaws. History between the two teams began in the 2006 season. As conference rivals the Preds and Outlaws faced each other twice. The first game saw UWS steal a victory when the field lights went out with five minutes to play. The second had the Preds taking a convincing win in Wollongong, for their second victory of the season.

Last season the two sides met only once, as they were in separate conferences. That did nothing to quell the fire of the clash. The Preds played solid D that evening, holding league MVP Stuart Etcell to 2 TDs. Unfortunately, the Offence managed to give away three safeties sealing UWS’ victory at 18-0.

“That was the most heart-breaking loss of last season,” tells Captain Nadim Sharbean, “It perfectly exemplifies the issues we had last year. We’ve worked all off-season on improving our O and I believe they’re a ten times better unit now.”

This year the teams will meet twice. The Outlaws come into the match having dropped two games already. After last season’s play-off performance, they’ll be determined not to fall to 0-3. Yet the question is: which team will show this Saturday? The Outlaws that took it to a strong UTS side or the Outlaws that were pipped by last year’s wooden-spooners, the Raiders.

A lot of speculation has swirled amongst the league over who the Outlaws will field. They’ve been riddled with injury so far and it cost them in the second game. Etcell, who had a dominating performance against UTS, suffered a broken wrist. Whilst that may be a major setback, it doesn’t necessarily rule him out. Just this week, NFL Running Back Shaun Alexander had 79 yards on 25 carries sporting a cast over his broken wrist.

“It’s not about who plays or doesn’t play,” insists D Coach Paul Hill, “We need to beat whatever side comes out.”

“They’re no one-man side,” agrees Head Coach Mark Levin, “They’ve got a team filled with Australian Outback and NSW Wolfpack players. We still need to play great football to come out of this one with a win.”

With a Bye Week just gone, both teams will be refreshed and ready to tear each other apart. To a degree they have a lot in common – both teams like to run; both teams play solid D; and both teams love to hit.

In the end, though, both teams can’t win.

Kick off is 4pm at Berkeley Oval, Northcliffe Drive, Berkeley, Wollongong – Go the Preds!


A Close Loss
October 7, 2007 Outlaws 20 Predators 14

Report to follow



Game Three Season 2007
NW Predators vs UWS Outlaws

The NW Predators’ third round match up against the UWS Outlaws started much like the second round game against UTS. There was fire on both side of the ball, with the Preds looking set to again force an upset. Unfortunately, like the UTS game, errors let the fire escape, and before the first half was over, the Preds were in another hole.

“We really had the momentum,” said Preds Head Coach Mark Levin, “It looked like we would march them all over the field. But once again we found ourselves scrapping.”

Indeed, for the entire first quarter the Preds seemed to have all the momentum.

“Our D was holding them beautifully. And our O looked set to punch one in,” noted DT Iain Glassey, “Then Stuey Etcell broke that run.”

That run was a scamper down the right sideline that saw Outlaw RB Etcell add a quick 50-yards to his tally and swing the momentum back in his team’s favour.

“It took two series to regather,” said OLB James Hopper, “Before we knew it they were up 13-zip and we were playing catch up.”

The second half saw a refocussed Predators’ side come out hungry. The O again seemed to have a push going forward, but were hampered by the left ankle sprain to QB James McEnaney.

“I’ve rolled it a bunch of times, so I didn’t think too much of it,” he said, “I figured I could manage, but after a while I realised I just couldn’t deliver the ball the way it needed to be.”

It was a pick, off one of those errant passes, which set up the third Outlaws TD. McEnaney took himself out of the game shortly afterwards and gave way to back-up, Conrad Fils-Aime.

Soon things started to go the Preds way again.

“Our D got a strip and I’m running on the field thinking let’s throw right away,” said Fils-Aime, “We’d been running all day and I figured going deep would surprise them.”

A personal foul put the O on the 20 yard line and shortly afterwards Fils-Aime hit WR Mark Hall in the corner to get the Preds on the board. The two-point conversion failed, but with 4 minutes left to play the Preds trailed 20-6.

Then the D lifted it another notch. CB Arin Tahmasian read a short throw from the Outlaws QB for an INT and took it 40-yards back for a TD. The Preds got the two-pointer this time to get within six.

The Offence got a final shot at the equaliser when the Outlaws were forced to punt with forty seconds left on the clock. Already backed deep near their endzone due to penalties, the punt was shanked, giving the Preds the ball in the red zone.

However all attempts failed. And when Fils-Aime was sacked on 4th-and-10, the Outlaws took over and kneeled out the game.

Although the score against the Outlaws was a lot closer than the drubbing in Game 2, this one hurt more.

“We took some great steps,” said Defensive Coach Paul Hill, “We were consistent, played at the same level for most of the game. Unfortunately we’re yet to be at the level where that will win us games.”

The Predators will need to find that level for next week’s game against the 0-3 Wollongong Mustangs. A loss to the ‘Stangs will kill any play-off aspirations for the Preds.

“We’ve worked long this off season,” said Captain MLB Nadim Sharbean, “But it means nothing if we don’t start putting together some wins.”

OFFENSIVE MVP: Conrad Fils-Aime
DEFENSIVE MVP: Matthew Page


Predators Get a Spanking
September 22, 2007 UTS 50 Predators 6

Report to follow



Predators Leave Game Wondering
Game Two Season 2007
NW Predators vs UTS

At one point, midway through the third quarter, the UTS QB stepped back and threw a bullet across to middle to a cutting receiver. Preds MLB Nadim Sharbean stretched out to bat the ball, hoping to break up the pass. Instead it popped up and landed right in the receivers hands for a 15 yard gain. The play summed up the three quarters of football for the NW Predators this weekend. After leading 6-0 early in the game, the team were destroyed by the brilliant speed of the UTS receiving corps, losing 50-6.

“It was embarrassing,” said Sharbean, “We’re so much better than the performance we put together this evening. This was Season One Preds. It’s not what we can expect this year.”

After trading three-and-outs, Preds DE Mick George recovered a fumble during UTS’s second drive to swing the momentum. The Offence then came on and drove the length of the field behind a solid run attack – highlighted by a 20 yard QB sweep by James McEnaney and FB Raneen Shamoon ploughing through for his first TD of the new season. Kicker Arin Tahmasian, who was perfect last week, was wide left with the PAT.

That was the end of any celebrations for the Predator’s sideline. UTS quickly struck back, catching the Pred’s D sleeping with a well-executed End Around play. They took the lead immediately on the ensuing PAT.

In spite of the UTS strike-back, the Pred’s D seemed poise to make another stop on their next outing. However, two late-shots on the UTS QB and a sideline penalty cost the Preds 35 yards, setting up UTS for their second TD of the night and a 14-6 lead at the half.

“I thought we were in it,” said Predator’s Head Coach Mark Levin, “We were running with the same power we had towards the end of the Bondi game. But in the second half we just fell apart.”

Indeed after the break the same Predators side were nowhere to be seen. The D, that had clamped down on the UTS side in the first half, gave up TD after TD. Meanwhile, the O struggled to get yardage, relying heavily on the punter for field position.

“We discussed coming out strong and we did it,” McEnaney said, “But we lost it somewhere during the break.”

“I’m ashamed,” said DT Iain Glassey, “We let our Coaches down. The first half showed that the game plan could work. We just didn’t execute it in the second.”

The Predators have two weeks to iron out the wrinkles before they come up against Conference Rivals, the UWS Outlaws. After suffering an embarrassing loss to the Raiders on Saturday night, the Outlaws will be a determined team when they face the Preds in Wollongong on October 6th.

“They’re a tough team; a 2006 play-off team. And they don’t like losing to us,” acknowledged Levin, “They’re hurting right now and so are we. Hopefully the bye week does us well and the game will be a better clash than the one we saw here tonight.”

The Preds will need it to be, if they are to have any hope of reaching the play-offs this year.

OFFENSIVE MVP: Raneen Shamoon
DEFENSIVE MVP: James Hopper


Round Two - Fight!
September 21, 2012 The Northwestern Predators are hoping their early jitters will be all gone when they take on the formidable UTS tomorrow night. Both teams are coming off close wins, but there is no doubt which team put in the better performance last Saturday. The UTS side’s only weakness seemed to be their inability to stop last year’s NSWGFL MVP Stuart Etcell. Then again, that could be said of most teams in the league.

“We won’t have three quarters to warm-up this week,” admits Head Coach Mark Levin, referring to the Preds last game against Bondi, “We need to come out firing and take it to them early.”

Many of the Predators agree. Much talk this week at training has been about using their fourth quarter heroics from the Bondi game to springboard into this week’s clash.

“We played like a team in that last 15 minutes,” says Defensive Deputy Captain Andy Hilton, “If we can do that for 60 minutes we’ll be in the match.”

This is the third season running that UTS have been in the Preds conference. The teams have faced off four times and each match has seen UTS take the win easily. Their last battle was in the final round of the 2006 season when UTS put up 5 TDs – three from Special Teams.

“That was really demoralising,” says Captain Nadim Sharbean, “We were in the match otherwise.”

Yet Sharbean does feel confident in this year’s team.

“We’re a much better side. Our Offence has improved immensely and is much smarter. Our Defence have gotten younger and faster, as our rookies have stepped up.”

Even he knows, though, it’s a tough ask, beating last year’s finalist.

“They’re a good team. Well drilled and a decent bunch of guys. We’ll need to bring everything we’ve got to get one over them.”

Kick off is 7pm at Briar’s Hockey Field, Queens Road, Concord – Go the Preds!


Predators Win Season Opener
September 15, 2007 Predators 14 defeat Raiders 6

Report to follow

Late Heroics to Open the Season


The Northwestern Predators had an inspired comeback to capture their first ever victory in a season opener. Faced by a seasoned Bondi Raider team – who were determined to erase memories of their wooden spoon in the ’06 season – the Preds had to dig deep to get the ‘W’.

The first three quarters were lack lustre, to say the least, with both teams shaking off first game jitters and sideline rust. The first half was highlighted by two questionable pass interference calls on Preds Cornerback Matt Richards. The second call lead to a Raiders field goal attempt right before the break. Yet it drifted wide right and the two teams went to the change rooms scoreless.

The excitement really began in the final stanza, with both Defences battling to give their Offences decent field position. It was the Raiders who broke through first, with a fumble recovery giving them the ball on the 6 yard line. The Preds D stood tall, but on 3rd and Goal, a sweep to the right saw the Raiders halfback reach the endzone. The PAT went wide.

Unlike seasons past, the Predators refused to go quietly. Immediately the Offence came out with fire. Shifting into a wishbone formation – utilising both veteran halfbacks, Brendon ‘Doink’ Reid and Adam Zwart – the Preds nullified their opponent with a series of shift and motions. First, Reid took a reception across the middle to the Raiders 30. Then Fullback Raneen Shamoon did what he’s renowned for and barrelled through the guts for another 10 yards. Finally, Zwart followed great blocks to sweep around the left flank for the first TD of the 2007 Season. With the pressure of a win on his shoulders, star kicker Arin Tahmasian booted home the PAT.

Having something to protect appeared to rev the Predator’s Defence. In spite of completing a few short passes the Raiders never threatened the line. After seven plays the Preds had the ball again and were looking to run out the clock with three minutes left. Reid had other thoughts, blazing a hole right through the Raiders for a 30 yard TD run. Tahmasian nailed his second PAT, giving the Preds an 8 point lead.

The Defence then smothered the Raider’s fight with two interceptions (to Richards and Zwart) and a huge sack (from OLB Cisco Diaz) sealing the victory.

“It’s awesome to start the season like this,” said rookie QB James McEnaney, “We were really struggling to get our flow going, but once we started… it was great.”

Head Coach Mark Levin couldn’t contain his happiness, breaking out into a huge grin.

“Once again the Defence kept us in it,” he admitted, “I knew the guys on O would show up, it was just a matter of time.”

“They couldn’t have left it later!” teased Captain MLB Nadim Sharbean, neglecting the fact that he started at Tight End, “But I kept telling Jimmy [McEnaney] ‘Don’t worry about it… We’ve got your back.’ And, obviously, he had ours.”

The Predators now have a week to prepare for their Round 2 opponents the UTS Gators, who are coming off a close one against the UWS Outlaws. The Gators and Preds have faced four times over the last two years and each occasion has seen UTS exploit the Preds inexperience. To win, the Predators will need to play four solid quarters of football. Hopefully, the momentum that began at the end of the Raiders game will carry through to next week.

OFFENSIVE MVP: Brendan ‘Doink’ Reid
DEFENSIVE MVP: Matt Richards


Predators Beaten Just
Last Sunday on a very wet and cold day a defensive struggle took place with between the Pirates and the Predators at Craik Park Austral. I don't think it stopped raining except for 10 minutes at half time and it had rained all night. Most people where expecting the ground to be closed by the council but the game went ahead.

In what was our second preseason game for the season the competition had stepped up considerably with the Pirates last seasons number 3 ranked side the opposition for the day. The Predators missing 13 of their 40 man roster for the day again where looking at a validation of what has been done the last few weeks since the Tuggernong game and an improved showing. Improved showing is exactly what we got. the defense played perhaps their best technical game since our inception and really worked well as a unit all day. The only blemish was a muffed punt return on the 2 yard line which saw the Pirates punch it in for the only score of the day. The succeeded with their extra point. Offensivly we moved the ball all day between the 20's but just could not get it into the endzone and a dropped pass on the last play off the day would have seen a big decision for the coaches on a 1 or 2 point conversion if it had in fact been caught.

The Pirates where without their all Australian QB Dave Ward who was and still is in the US at the moment and that certainly had an impact on their offense game as well.

The coaches however where very pleased with the advancement made in just 2 weeks and considering the Pirates have been in pre season training a little longer than us the result of the day whilst a loss was still good in our preparation for winning the first game of the season against Bondi on Sept 15.

Final Score 7-0 to the Pirates

A Big Block of White Choc
August 24, 2007 Let’s face it, if you’re a Running Back, you don’t want to run behind someone in the mould of Paris Hilton. Whilst the view back there might be great, the Linebacker bearing down on you will only be momentarily blinded by the slutty, good looks of your blocker. And once that moment has passed, there’s nothing standing between him and that left knee you tweaked at training.

Truth is, if you’ve got to carry the ball out of the backfield you need a linemen who looks like Fat Albert, lifts like Ah-nold and moves like a pre-90’s Michael Jackson on speed! Amazingly, the Predators had one hanging around. He was just playing Defence.

“When he showed up Huss had O-Linemen written all over him,” Head Coach Mark Levin tells, “Unfortunately our O-Line was already set and we needed a Nose Tackle.”

Houssayn ‘Sexual White Chocolate’ Bazzi had never played before. And rather than risking him on the Offence, Levin let Bazzi cut his teeth on the D-Line.

“I loved it,” Bazzi says, “The D’s a tight unit and it was more fun than you can imagine. I knew I’d made the right choice to play for the Preds.”

Bazzi could have played a bunch of other places. A St George boy Bazzi’s first look was to the nearest club, the Bondi Raiders.

“I hated the rainbows,” he jokes, referencing the Raider’s traditional emblem, “Nah, actually, I really wanted to be part of something special. The three other teams I looked at – the Raiders, the [Sydney Uni] Lions and the [Sutherland] Seahawks – they’d all won Championships before. I wanted to help a team win their first.”

It was for the same reason Bazzi didn’t complain about moving to the other side of the ball.

“Most guys are trying to get away from the line,” points out Offensive Line Captain, Phil Calloway, “But Huss walked over and was like: Let’s have some fun.”

“I was a little unsure about it,” Bazzi admits, “A lot of people had told me that O-Line was being hit and D-Line was giving hits, and that upset me. Then, first scrimmage, me and the tight end drive our D-End right into the dirt. I just started to laugh. I knew this was for me.”

And it shows. When Bazzi pulls for a trap he moves with the ambition of a starving tiger – and his prey better see him coming.

Tells Running Back Adam Zwart: “I got behind him in one of our preseason games and I found a huge gap right through the middle of the field. It was 15 yards before anyone realised there was a Running Back behind him”

Even the Quarterback loves him.

“He protects my backside,” starter Jimmy McEnaney explains, “That’s like having a moving wall with you at all times. I almost feel sorry for the opposition.”

McEnaney’s not wrong. In two preseason games so far, the pressure has mainly come when he’s rolled out of the pocket. Most of the time SWC has his side locked down.

But he doesn’t want to be a single-minded player. Just ask Defensive Coordinator, Paul Hill.

“He’s always hassling me to get on the Defence as well. I keep telling him that I need the rookies to get time, but he insists that he needs practice too.”

Bazzi can only grin.

“I’m a Pred. No matter which side I’m playing.”

Favourite movie: Snatch
Favourite TV show: Frasier
Favourite actor: James Garner
Favourite actress: Charlize Theron
Favourite NFL player: The QB Killa – Warren Sapp
Favourite off-field activity: Working on my pulling technique.
Three words to describe the 2007 Predators: “Maccas after training.”


Bring on The Real Games!
September 12, 2007 After eleven long weeks of preseason, the Northwestern Predators appear to be frothing at the mouth for Game 1 against the Bondi Raiders.

The three preseason scrimmages (versus the Tuggeranong Tornadoes, the West Sydney Pirates and the Sydney University Lion) have failed to subdue any hunger, instead merely whetting the appetite. Now, with the hours counting down to the beginning of Season Three, the focus has turned to the Bondi Raiders.

For some of the Preds it’ll be their first time playing in an official NSWGFL game. For many returning veterans, reminders of last season’s opener spur them on.

“It was against the [Sutherland] Seahawks and I couldn’t sleep the night before,” admits Nose Tackle Houssayn Bazzi, “During the game it took me a while to get my bearings. It was fast and brutal and totally unlike anything I had done before. I mean, it was over in a flash.”

“I was pretty nervous before the first game,” says Left Tackle Dave Noney, “but looking back, joining the Predators was the best thing I've ever done. The loss last year in the first game was probably the hardest loss to take all year, as we were so close to winning.”

What was worse was that the game could have meant a playoff spot. With many teams struggling to reach .500 last year, a win in the opener could have meant so much more to the Predator’s side of 2006.

This week is much the same way. Despite the fact that this is a season opener, Saturday night’s game will carry much weight.

“At the very least you don’t want to end up last in your Conference,” tells Head Coach Mark Levin, “There are some great teams on our side. We’ll need to fight to stay amongst the pack.”

Levin’s not wrong. The Predators conference includes three teams with solid history: the UTS Gators – last season’s runners-up who are knocking, nay, barging on the Lion’s Championship door; the Penrith Outlaws – who won two Championships in 2001 & 2002 and once again have Stuart Etcell in their backfield; and Bondi.

The Raiders bring immense experience to the field. One of the few teams that have been around since formation, the Raiders boast 10 Championships in their illustrious career. They’re further boosted by the strength of their Colt side, the Under-18 State Champions, who have a few stars coming of age. And, if they need any other motivation, they can simply look back to last year, when the Predator’s handed them two straight losses.

“We need to come out strong,” says Preds Vice-Captain Phil Calloway, “We won’t survive on our tradition of being a 2nd half team. Our O must be powerful early and dominate. We need to make the other guys chase us.”

He’s not the only one who thinks this game will be hard fought:

“This will be a lot like last year’s clashes against Bondi,” says Bazzi, “They will have improved from then, as have we. I think the game will be won by defence. I know ours is strong. We’ll have to see theirs now.”

Says Noney, “The Raiders are a tough, hard team, but I'm confident in our O-Line and QB. And I don’t believe our defence will let us down.”

The Predators and Raiders have met four times in the last two years. Each year one of the teams has swept the series, which is split at 2-2. On Saturday one team will gain the edge and that advantage will carry through the season. If preparation leads to victory, the Predators stand poised to succeed.


1st Pre Season Game Played & Lost
August 4, 2007 Saturday night saw the Predators play their first of 3 pre season games of the new season against the Tuggernong Tornados from the ACT league. With only 3 weeks full practice under their belts the Predators where looking to validate what they had been doing in training to date and the Tornados who are only 2 weeks away from their season starting where looking to blood their new players in a good contest.

For the last 2 years the Predators have travelled to Canberra to play the Tornado's in an end of season friendly and have been successful both times. This time the Tornado's turned the result around and ran out winners 14 - 6.

The Predators started very slowly with the offense under new rookie QB James Mc Enaney looking very rusty to say the least. The did start to get things happening towards the end of the half. The defense put up a tremendous effort in keeping the Tornado's out of the endzone until just before the half when a score and 2 point conversion was made.

In keeping with the day of validating our practice to date half time saw a number of personal changes not least of which was the introduction of our second rookie QB Conrad Fils-Aime and the move of James Mc Enaney to WR. This bore instant results with a great catch made by Jimmie from a tipped ball which seemed to ignite the Predators offense. The remainder of the third quarter was a hard fought tussell with both teams moving the ball but defenses held.

The start of the 4th saw the Predators score and then miss the 2 point conversion and again the tussell continued until an interception deep in our own half thrown by Conrad was returned by the Tornado's for a TD. The PAT attempt was blocked and despite some great efforts by the offense we where unable to get into the end zone again.

Will Tregas was awarded the Predators MVP by the Tornado's and the Predators chose #39 from the Tornado's a RB/LB who caused the offense a great deal of trouble all day.

Once again it was a great hit out for both teams rookies and the two sides are already looking forward to their next friendly game at the end of the season if it can be arranged.

The new season player roster has now been updated with the new players and number changes for the upcoming season stats will be posted here as with years gone by after each regular season game.

A Weekly Article
August 14, 2007 As part of trying to update the website I have asked Nadim Sharbean our current team Vice Captain and starting Middle Linebacker to contribute some articles for publication on the site. This is his first offering and I am sure people will enjoy the insight he is able to bring to you all on our club.

I Will Follow Jim

It takes a leap of faith to hand the reins of your team to a 20 year old. Anyone that follows the NFL knows this. Even the young gun with the best genes in the games, Eli Manning, had to ride the bench before getting a career start. Yet, after last season’s rotisserie of Quarterbacks, Predator’s Head Coach, Mark Levin, decided it was time.

“Jimmy’s an athlete,” Levin says, talking about new starter, James McEnaney, “He competes, and succeeds, at everything he does. I had no doubts he was the man for the job. For this season and the years to come.”

McEnaney had been a stand out athlete ever since he joined the Predators organisation with their inception three years ago. As a receiver, McEnaney carved teams up from word go. His size, sure hands and quality footwork made him a go-to receiver, unintimidated by routes across the middle or throws into heavy coverage. Paired with deep threats Mark Livy (2005) and Ben Quigley (2006), McEnaney made a name for himself, being selected to the NSW training squad before an ankle injury ruled him out.

However… Quarterback? That’s a little different, right?

“Not really,” McEnaney jokes, “It’s still all about vision, footwork and having good hands! I just think it’s a matter of applying what I’ve done the last two years to this. It’ll come together.”

It’s that quiet confidence that the Predators coaching staff noticed.

“He steps up to the plate,” Predators Coordinator Paul Hill notes, “He’s not deterred by the load on his shoulders or the shoes that he fills. He knows his playbook, steps through his reads and does what he needs to do to move the ball.”

It helps that McEnaney is surrounded by veterans. His fullback, Raneen Shamoon, infamously lit up Linebackers last season, making him hot property during the off-season. Yet he’s back there blocking for McEnaney. And the other side of the ball is right behind him also.

“I spent most of my off season in weights room with him,” tells Middle Linebacker Nadim Sharbean, “He wants this. He wants it bad!”

Nevertheless he knows there are some lows that will come with the job.

“That’s the way it is,” McEnaney admits, “My aim is to not focus on the miscues. We’re going to win. The when is irrelevant”

From the way he’s running in training camp that could be sooner than most expect!

Favorite movie: Raging Bull
Favorite TV show: Seinfeld
Favorite actor: Kevin Spacey
Favorite actress: Liv Ullman
Favorite NFL player: Priest Holmes
Favorite off-field activity: Madden 07
Three words to describe the 2007 Predators: “Really, really good! Sometimes… at training… Okay, that’s eight words, but you can fit it in, right?”


2007 Pre Season Set To Begin
June 29, 2007 Predators Senior Pre Season is about to begin here is the program for all who are interested.


Predators Pre Season Training Schedule

Day Date Location Time
Sunday July 1 All Linemen Headen Park 1pm till 4pm
And Rookies new Sinclair Ave
to the Club Thornleigh

Sunday July 8 All Linemen Headen Park 1pm till 4pm
And Rookies new
To the Club

Sunday July 15 Normal Training Headen Park 1pm till 4pm
Everyone

Tuesday July 17 Normal Training Headen Park 7 till 9.30pm

Friday July 20 Normal Training Headen Park 7 till 9.30pm

Sunday July 22 Normal Training Headen Park 1pm till 4pm


Tuesday July 24 Normal Training Headen Park 7 till 9.30pm

Friday July 27 Normal Training Headen Park 7 till 9.30pm

Sunday July 29 Normal Training Headen Park 1pm till 4pm

Tuesday July 31 Normal Training Headen Park 7 till 9.30pm

Friday August 3 T.B.A

SaturdayAugust 4 Practice Match Granville Park 7pm Kick Off
V’s Tornadoes Two Blues Field Cnr Merrylands &
Woodville Roads
Granville

Tuesday August 7 Normal Training Headen Park 7 till 9.30pm

Friday August 10 Normal Training Headen Park 7 till 9.30pm

Sunday August 12 Normal Training Headen Park 1pm till 4pm


Tuesday August 14 Normal Training Headen Park 7 till 9.30pm

Friday August 17 T.B.A

Sunday August 19 Practice Match Craik Park 1pm Kick Off
V’s Pirates 11th Avenue Austral
BBQ after the game

Tuesday August 21 Normal Training Headen Park 7 till 9.30pm

Friday August 24 Normal Training Headen Park 7 till 9.30pm

Sunday August 26 Normal Training Headen Park 7 till 9.30pm


Tuesday August 28 Normal Training Sir Thomas 7 till 9.30pm
Mitchell Reserve
Alexander St
Dundas Valley

Thursday August 30 Normal Training Sir Thomas 7 till 9.30pm

Sunday September 2 Practice Match T.B.A


Tuesday September 4 Normal Training Sir Thomas 7 till 9.30pm

Thursday September 6 Normal Training Sir Thomas 7 till 9.30pm

Sunday September 9 Normal Training Sir Thomas 1 till 4pm

Tuesday September 11 Normal Training Sir Thomas 7 till 9.30pm

Thursday September 13 Normal Training Sir Thomas 7 till 9.30pm

Saturday September 15 Season Commences



Training will run on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 7pm till 9.30 pm once the season commences.



UTS To Good For The Predators
September 16, 2006 UTS was too strong for the Predators in their 3 round (second game due to wash out of round 2)clash tonight in Kyeemagh.

Our first time at this venue and on Astro turf the Predators started out strong catching UTS a little unawares. The first half had both teams driving the ball but defenses making crucial stops to limit the only score in the half a TD to UTS with just 20 seconds remaining.

UTS got on the scoreboard early in the second half and never really looked back and had 20 points on the board before the Predators opened their account with a nice 23 yard pass to Tight End Rod Sim #8 who was all alone in the endzone.

Final score 33-6

Darren Kirby #5 QB played all game with an arm injury and suffered a further blow when he took a big knock to his thumb on his throwing hand before half time. A gutsy effort only coming out of the game late when Tony Bush stepped in for the last few minutes. Raneen Shamoon continued his solid rushing at FB since converting from outside linebacker with 10 carries for 71 yds and was making life difficult for the UTS defense. Solid defensive performances from Eden Barros again and Cisco Diaz both linebackers assited the defense effort, Phil Irvin popped up for his second interception in as many games and Matt Richards who got the start at corner and Ruwan Ekanyake showed they will be difficult to move from this postion in the coming weeks.

The coaching staff expressed the need for the club to play 4 quarters of football not 2 and until we can achieve this we will struggle to win these tough games.

Next game is next week against the Mustangs who opened their account this week with a win over Bondi Raiders.

Predators Drop Opener Just
September 4, 2006 After a lack luster start to the new season the Predators found themselves 30 points down to the Seahawks having run just 15 offensive plays for the half. It was like a deer staring into the oncoming cars headlights as the Seahawks could do no wrong on either side of the ball racking up an impressive first half to lead it 30-0 and it seemed the Predators where powerless to stop them. The Seahawks had improved their roster both in roster numbers and size and had also graduated a few from the 3 peat champion winning colts team(under 18).

A change in QB and in defensive formation and personnel sparked a most extrordinary comeback that nearly saw the Predators pinch the game. If it wasn't for 2 interceptions on successive drives in the end zone in the last quarter we may well have pinched the win.

Having gained practicaly nothing in the first half the Predators offense racked up a total of 278 yards of passing and 165 yds of rushing. The defense having given up most of the 201 yds of passing and 94 yds of rushing in the first half gave up virtually nothing in the second half and included a sack numerous hurries an interception and caused 2 fumbles.

Offensive Stars

Darren Kirby QB in the second half had the following numbers for the day.

Rushing 3 carries for 16 Yds
Passing 14 attempts for 8 completions and 278 yds 1 TD 2 Int

James Mc Enaney 3 completions for 139 Yds
Ben Quigley 4 completions for 119 Yds 1 TD and 1 amazing catch

Raneen Shamoon 6 carries for 34 yds 3 TD's
Sam Downes 7 carries for 39 yds

Defensive Stars

Mick George 3 Solo 2 asst numerous hurries
Hussayn Bazzi 2 Solo 2 asst 1 sack 1 caused fumble
Cisco Diaz 3 solo 4 asst
Eden Baros 3 solo 4 asst

We learnt a lot from this game and once again our rookies stepped up to the plate to be counted. Next week we have a bye due to the game being re-scheduled to the end of the season so our next game is 16 September up against the much improoved UTS outfit.

Other results from the weekend

Lions 42 Raiders 0
Outlaws 23 Mustangs 0
UTS 30 Pirates 6

Season Begins This Saturday Night
August 28, 2006 The NSWGFL season will kick off this Saturday night for the Predators at 7 pm David Phillips Reserve against the Sutherland Seahawks.

Once again the Predator season starts against the Seahawks but we are hoping for a different result to last season when we went down 10-0.

Our scrimmage with the Sydney University Lions went well 8 days ago and the team and coaches have been working on issues that showed up during that scrimmage. Most pleasing was the fact we where not blown of the park so to speak as we where in the only game we had against them last year.

The Predators are looking to improve on the solid if unspectacular first season we had last year and are going into this game looking to record a season opening win.

Practice Scrimmage at Sydney Uni
August 18, 2006 If the weather gods continue to smile on us this week we hope to have a practice scrimmage against the current NSWGFL champs the Sydney University Lions on Sunday.

With the cancellation of the warm up game with Tuggeranong Tornados this represents the only chance for the Predators to have a hit out against someone other than themselves prior to season commencement.

Missing from the lineup this weekend will be Eden Barros, Nady Kebage, Darren Kirby, David Hughes and Phil Irvin either with work or injury woes. Doubtful are Luke Sayers and Nimrod Yaban(Nemo) but the rest of the squad should benifit from the hit out.

Our 15 new rookies are all looking forward to testing themselves against the league champs to see how well they have progressed through the pre season. Roddie Sim will start at QB and our returning players are keen to blow out the cobwebs of the off season.

The scrimmage will be held at Sydney University on Sunday the 20th at 2 pm.

Closed Grounds Effecting Practice
July 28, 2006 Sydney's wet winter is playing havoc with the Predators pre season training. Compared to last year when we had a single instance of ground closure due to wet weather, this pre season has seen us unable to train 6 out of the last 9 practices due to ground closures by the council.

With our first practice match a little over a week away we are hoping for clear skies for the next week or two so we can get some meaningful work down. The Tuggeranong Tornado's have been training well according to reports out of their camp and are looking to reverse the result from Christmas last year when the Predators beat them in the ACT.

As far as injury news is concerned everyone breathed a sigh of relief when it was revealed neither Nady or Will's injuries where season ending both a due back in time for the start of the NSWGFL season. A hand injury to James McEnaney should be all ok by this weekend and apart from a neck injury to safety/WR JP. Giroux(done when putting hair gel in his hair)and the recovery from ankle surgery to remove the pins inserted last year for Adam Zwart is going well and he should be available for the practice game against Sydney Uni in 3 weeks time.

Practice Match Called Off
August 7, 2006 The Weather has done it to us again. After receiving a guarantee weather would not be a factor to the practice match against the Tuggernong Tornado's going ahead, last Tuesday from the powers that be, Friday the council closed the ground due to excessive rain and the game had to be called off.

It was a major dissapointment for both teams who were looking forward to a solid hit out to guage just where they are at with the Predators season just 4 weeks away.

It is hoped an end of season game like last year can be organised.

On a different note the Predators welcomed this week to practice Ruwan Ekanayake from the "Bonn Gamecocks" a team in Germany. Ruwan a DB/RB is studying out here at Newcastle and has found his way to the Predators for the upcoming season. His experience will be an asset to the team this season.

SENIORS BEGIN THEIR 2006 ASSAULT
July 21, 2006 The seniors have at last turned out for the new 2006 season and the early indications are very good.

Pre season training began with a very wet and windy training camp held in Port Stephens or Anna Bay to be precise on the Queens birthday weekend in June. Approximatley 30 players a mixture of rookie and returners turned out for the weekend. A far cry from the 16 players that started our first session last year as a new club. Since then we have been training 3 times a week (not withstanding council closing our training ground due to wet weather).

Our starting QB of last season has returned to Melbourne to play with his old club the Croydon Rangers so Roddie Sim has stepped up this season to take control of the offense. Nadim is back to lead the defense at MLB and a number of positional changes to key players from last season is already starting to bare fruit.

Once again an exceptional group of rookie players have turned out with a number already forcing their way into the starting line ups of both the O and D coaches.

Last weekend saw us suffer 2 knee injuries in one training session both to running backs. Both Nardy and Will where looking great in an offense v front defensive 7 scrimmage before being injured. Word is Nardy should be back in 6 weeks but the jury is still out on Will but we hope he will return before the start of the season.

We are still hopefull that Landon White a Canadian Safety currently playing in Germany will join us second week into the season to add a little more experience to our line up but at this stage he is the only overseas player we are likely to have this season, although Laurie Hyponen one of our Finish linemen from last season is hopeful of staying in the country and attending Uni so we might just get a season or two out of him if he does stay. Unfortunatly Tomi Heino has returned home to complete his studies and play ball back in Finland. His loss will be felt by the team.

The Predators have a practice match organised with the Tuggeranong Tornados on August the 5th, and a controlled scrimmage session with the champs Sydney Uni Lions on Sunday 20 August as their warm ups for the opening encounter of the 2006 season with the Seahawks on the 2nd of September.

Training Times and Venue

Tuesday 7-9.30pm
Thursday 7-9.30pm
Sundays 1-4.00pm

Roslea Park
Roselea Way
Carlingford

Anyone interested in playing come on down or give Coach Levin a call on 0418 499 819

COLT REPRESENTATIVES
April 27, 2006

The following Colts players have been named to the train-on squad for the NSW Wolverines who defend their national title in Queensland this year. The Wolverines are the State representative team for the Colts division. Congratulations to these athletes and we wish them well for selection to the final team.

Daniel Wood

Harry Howard

Chris Osbourne

Brent Parker

Joel Nyamhunga

ROUND TWO OFFERS NO RESPITE
March 20, 2006

The Pumas suffered their second defeat of the season with a 52-0 loss to UTS last week. The tough introduction to the league continues. Our first win will come and the team is working hard towards that day.

PUMAS LOSE IN A CLOSE ONE
March 25, 2006

The Pumas last night displayed their best performance to date in only their 3 rd game for the season loosing in the final minutes.

The Trojans opening the scoring late in the half after a solid performance from the Puma defence which welcomed back Luke Robinson from injury on the D Line and which also saw Devin Richards make the starting role on the D Line to partner Luke. The Puma offense where moving the ball well but costly turnovers prevented them scoring. Chris Osborne in his 2nd start as QB this season and after only 1 practice session during the week led the offense superbly on the night.

It was the defense however who stepped up to the plate first with Harry Howard (CB) jumping in front of a Trojan pass to pic it off and return it all the way for the Pumas first ever score. The 2 point conversion was missed and the scoreline was 8-6 in favour of the Trojans at the half.

The Trojans scored again half way through the second half missing the conversion to make the score 14-6. The Puma offense kicked into top gear immediatly to respond with a TD on the very next drive but again missed the 2 point conversion making the score 14-12 Trojans way.

The game see-sawed from this point with neither team gaining any significant headway when in the last 2 mins a deep pass and short run later the Trojans where in again taking the Score to 20-12. The Pumas had one last chance and 50 seconds on the clock a completed pass was followed by an incomplete and on the last play of the game an attempted deep pass was met with a great bone shuddering sack of the Puma QB who was knocked into next week.

This was by far and a way the best performance to date for this inexperienced side. We hope to have a couple of guys back from other sports injuries over the next 2 weeks and look to keep improving.