In the news this week: - Marlins Set For Launch
- President's Address
- Colts On Fire
- Setting Sail On Another Year
- Old Blues In Charge
- Site To Behold
- King Of The Jungle(S)
- Jumping Through Hoops
- Max Socks It To 'Em
- Hole Lot Of Cash
|
In the news this week: - Marlins Set For Launch
- President's Address
- Colts On Fire
- Setting Sail On Another Year
- Old Blues In Charge
- Site To Behold
- King Of The Jungle(S)
- Jumping Through Hoops
- Max Socks It To 'Em
- Hole Lot Of Cash
|
A quick note, if you have been forwarded this email from a mate, besty or a family member and want to get your own feed of Marlins Fillets sent directly to your own Inbox, then click here to join. |
A quick note, if you have been forwarded this email from a mate, besty or a family member and want to get your own feed of Marlins Fillets sent directly to your own Inbox, then click here to join. |
 |
Not long to go now until one of the great sights in northern beaches sport takes place – the annual installation of the Manly Oval goalposts. So, we thought it only fair Marlins Fillets leapt off the couch Tom Cruise style, turned off the cricket, pulled the empty bevy out of the red and blue stubby holder and started producing some words for our loyal – 4092 at last count – subscribers. There is much to get through over the next few weeks so we won't bombard you with all the info at once. Suffice to say, there's plenty going on as we prepare for a big year of rugby, involving four men's grade sides, three Colts teams, two women's XVs and the Mermaids 7s. With the pre-season 7s tournaments done and dusted in the men's, attention now turns to the 15-a-side trials. We play the Two Blues (March 8), Norths (March 15), and Randwick (March 22) at the NSW Academy of Sport, Narrabeen. New head coach Sam Lane (pictured) is not giving a heap away (you never know which rival club might be sneaking a peek at this) but he is very happy with the talent at his disposal. As with most years, there's been a significant player turnover which has opened the door for some new blood and the return of a number of familiar faces. Laney is also excited over a number of Colts graduates making their way into grade. "We’ll look to use trial one as just a game to get everyone back into it. We want to give some of our younger guys and guys who haven't played much first grade some exposure to that level to see how they handle it," Lane explained. "We’ll then use the next two trials to get a bit closer to forming combinations and nail down what a round one team will look like. "There’s a really good competitiveness in the group so we’re looking forward to seeing how they come together with some live footy." |
Not long to go now until one of the great sights in northern beaches sport takes place – the annual installation of the Manly Oval goalposts. So, we thought it only fair Marlins Fillets leapt off the couch Tom Cruise style, turned off the cricket, pulled the empty bevy out of the red and blue stubby holder and started producing some words for our loyal – 4092 at last count – subscribers. There is much to get through over the next few weeks so we won't bombard you with all the info at once. Suffice to say, there's plenty going on as we prepare for a big year of rugby, involving four men's grade sides, three Colts teams, two women's XVs and the Mermaids 7s. With the pre-season 7s tournaments done and dusted in the men's, attention now turns to the 15-a-side trials. We play the Two Blues (March 8), Norths (March 15), and Randwick (March 22) at the NSW Academy of Sport, Narrabeen. New head coach Sam Lane (pictured) is not giving a heap away (you never know which rival club might be sneaking a peek at this) but he is very happy with the talent at his disposal. As with most years, there's been a significant player turnover which has opened the door for some new blood and the return of a number of familiar faces. Laney is also excited over a number of Colts graduates making their way into grade. "We’ll look to use trial one as just a game to get everyone back into it. We want to give some of our younger guys and guys who haven't played much first grade some exposure to that level to see how they handle it," Lane explained. "We’ll then use the next two trials to get a bit closer to forming combinations and nail down what a round one team will look like. "There’s a really good competitiveness in the group so we’re looking forward to seeing how they come together with some live footy." |
 |
I will now hand the microphone over to President Matt Curll to say a few words. "Thanks Scoop. I can't believe it's only five weeks until the first round and our first home game - a blockbuster weekend of Colts games on Friday, April 4 night and our grade games on Saturday, April 5. "This is followed by the Anzac Day blockbuster on Friday, 25 April. Put those dates in your diary. "To our supporters you should all be excited about the rugby we will deliver this year. As we know we have had a change of head coach, with Sam Lane taking over the reins. "Sam is supported by a strong team led by Turtle Cummins, James Hilterbrand, Harry Bergelin and Jackson Bird, to name a few. "We have recruited a strong line-up combining ever-maturing local juniors, transfers from other Shute Shield clubs and some overseas guests (why wouldn't you come to Manly!). "Colts (headed by Ed Morgan) and Mermaids (headed by Ben Tuipulotu) programs are well ahead of last year and we are excited for them and we will feature them in the near future. "We are pleased to welcome two new general managers in Graham Beale and Tim Herbert – former teammates who have a great connection with each other and the board. "We are really excited about these appointments. "Both men have been peddling really hard since February 1 so bear with us as they settle in. "There have also been some movements with our board and I am really pleased to report an incredibly diverse board comprising Brooke Cummins (Events) Ruth Buckley (Secretary) Susan McIndoe (Mermaids) Sarah Durham (Memberships) Alisha Reber (Welfare) Peter Gibson (Juniors/Academy) David Begg (Sponsorship) Andrew Gourley (Treasurer), me, joined by Tim and Graham as GMs. "Thank you to our sponsors both renewing and arriving, we have managed to increase our base by 30% which is a testament to you all. Adam "Scoop" Lucius has only given me limited space so we will feature sponsors in the next few weeks. "We have our season launch coming up soon for members and sponsors. We are continuing our membership campaign - please sign up for a season membership via our revamped website. "Your support is greatly appreciated. "Back to you, Scoop." |
I will now hand the microphone over to President Matt Curll to say a few words. "Thanks Scoop. I can't believe it's only five weeks until the first round and our first home game - a blockbuster weekend of Colts games on Friday, April 4 night and our grade games on Saturday, April 5. "This is followed by the Anzac Day blockbuster on Friday, 25 April. Put those dates in your diary. "To our supporters you should all be excited about the rugby we will deliver this year. As we know we have had a change of head coach, with Sam Lane taking over the reins. "Sam is supported by a strong team led by Turtle Cummins, James Hilterbrand, Harry Bergelin and Jackson Bird, to name a few. "We have recruited a strong line-up combining ever-maturing local juniors, transfers from other Shute Shield clubs and some overseas guests (why wouldn't you come to Manly!). "Colts (headed by Ed Morgan) and Mermaids (headed by Ben Tuipulotu) programs are well ahead of last year and we are excited for them and we will feature them in the near future. "We are pleased to welcome two new general managers in Graham Beale and Tim Herbert – former teammates who have a great connection with each other and the board. "We are really excited about these appointments. "Both men have been peddling really hard since February 1 so bear with us as they settle in. "There have also been some movements with our board and I am really pleased to report an incredibly diverse board comprising Brooke Cummins (Events) Ruth Buckley (Secretary) Susan McIndoe (Mermaids) Sarah Durham (Memberships) Alisha Reber (Welfare) Peter Gibson (Juniors/Academy) David Begg (Sponsorship) Andrew Gourley (Treasurer), me, joined by Tim and Graham as GMs. "Thank you to our sponsors both renewing and arriving, we have managed to increase our base by 30% which is a testament to you all. Adam "Scoop" Lucius has only given me limited space so we will feature sponsors in the next few weeks. "We have our season launch coming up soon for members and sponsors. We are continuing our membership campaign - please sign up for a season membership via our revamped website. "Your support is greatly appreciated. "Back to you, Scoop." |
 |
Colts head coach Ed Morgan did a fantastic job in his first year in charge last season and has overseen huge numbers at pre-season training. Always one to think outside the box, Morgan took his players to Manly Fire Station last weekend for a lesson in "The crew gave the boys a unique and important insight into key themes for our 2025 season - Connection, Communication, and Accountability - from a real-world and genuinely life and death perspective. "It was amazing to hear the way the crew do their training to ensure they're an inseparable unit under pressure and in an emergency. "They finished by explaining what the Manly community means to them, and how they feel a responsibility to the local people, challenging out boys to continue to be role models in Manly in all they do." The visit was arranged by former Manly Colt and last year's third-grade coach Guy Fleming, who is part of a fantastic team of fireys at the Fairlight-based station. Morgan said: "A huge thank-you to Guy and all the team there. We got a lot of out of the day." And boys being boys, the players were allowed to climb the ladders and ring the siren when all the serious stuff was done. |
Colts head coach Ed Morgan did a fantastic job in his first year in charge last season and has overseen huge numbers at pre-season training. Always one to think outside the box, Morgan took his players to Manly Fire Station last weekend for a lesson in "The crew gave the boys a unique and important insight into key themes for our 2025 season - Connection, Communication, and Accountability - from a real-world and genuinely life and death perspective. "It was amazing to hear the way the crew do their training to ensure they're an inseparable unit under pressure and in an emergency. "They finished by explaining what the Manly community means to them, and how they feel a responsibility to the local people, challenging out boys to continue to be role models in Manly in all they do." The visit was arranged by former Manly Colt and last year's third-grade coach Guy Fleming, who is part of a fantastic team of fireys at the Fairlight-based station. Morgan said: "A huge thank-you to Guy and all the team there. We got a lot of out of the day." And boys being boys, the players were allowed to climb the ladders and ring the siren when all the serious stuff was done. |
 |
Setting Sail On Another Year |
Setting Sail On Another Year |
Our volunteers had their arms twisted earlier this month when asked down to the skiff club to sip a few beers in the sun as the Marlins hierarchy talked through plans for 2025. The group heard from president Matt Curll, director sponsorships/partnerships David Begg and new co-general managers Tim Herbert and Graham Beale on a variety of on and off field matters. Chatham House rules were in place but Marlins Fillets has never been good at keeping a secret. So, we can reveal a few things, including the arrival of a well credentialled playmaker and a winger/centre of some class. There was also talk of a big change to our Anzac Day clash with the Rats (more '26 than '25) and the involvement of a serious heavy hitter on the sponsorship front. Before the third beverage kicked in, Fillets remembers hearing about a bold proposal for the future |
Our volunteers had their arms twisted earlier this month when asked down to the skiff club to sip a few beers in the sun as the Marlins hierarchy talked through plans for 2025. The group heard from president Matt Curll, director sponsorships/partnerships David Begg and new co-general managers Tim Herbert and Graham Beale on a variety of on and off field matters. Chatham House rules were in place but Marlins Fillets has never been good at keeping a secret. So, we can reveal a few things, including the arrival of a well credentialled playmaker and a winger/centre of some class. There was also talk of a big change to our Anzac Day clash with the Rats (more '26 than '25) and the involvement of a serious heavy hitter on the sponsorship front. Before the third beverage kicked in, Fillets remembers hearing about a bold proposal for the future |
 |
As mentioned above, we will run with two general managers this year following the departure of Greg Marr a few weeks ago. "Marsbar" worked his backside off for the club and is now enjoying a slightly more leisurely pace up at Hawks Nest, where he can be closer to his elderly parents (not to mention a few Marlins rogues from years gone by!). We wish him and the family all the best and hope to see him at the Village Green during the season. He leaves big shoes for "Kettle" Herbert and "Bealey" to fill but the two former Manly teammates have hit the ground running. Tim (pictured right) will mainly look after on-field matters while Graham will oversee the off-field. They are two terrific blokes who bleed red and blue, so make yourself known to them if you run into them. |
As mentioned above, we will run with two general managers this year following the departure of Greg Marr a few weeks ago. "Marsbar" worked his backside off for the club and is now enjoying a slightly more leisurely pace up at Hawks Nest, where he can be closer to his elderly parents (not to mention a few Marlins rogues from years gone by!). We wish him and the family all the best and hope to see him at the Village Green during the season. He leaves big shoes for "Kettle" Herbert and "Bealey" to fill but the two former Manly teammates have hit the ground running. Tim (pictured right) will mainly look after on-field matters while Graham will oversee the off-field. They are two terrific blokes who bleed red and blue, so make yourself known to them if you run into them. |
 |
After a lot of hard work over the off-season, the new-look Manly Rugby Club website is up and running. Thanks to our great sponsor – Manly-based Online Projects (with some help from Fillets editor Barry Smyth) – we've freshened the whole site up to make it cleaner, easier to navigate and with more of the news and info you need. Check it out at www.manlyrugby.com.au and let us know your thoughts. |
After a lot of hard work over the off-season, the new-look Manly Rugby Club website is up and running. Thanks to our great sponsor – Manly-based Online Projects (with some help from Fillets editor Barry Smyth) – we've freshened the whole site up to make it cleaner, easier to navigate and with more of the news and info you need. Check it out at www.manlyrugby.com.au and let us know your thoughts. |
 |
Marlins Fillets was honoured to be part of a special wake at the Hotel Steyne earlier this month, commemorating the passing of local character James "Jungles" Parker. Jungles (pictured right, next to Marlins tragic Jamie Davidson) was a keen Manly rugby supporter and a regular visitor to the old licensed club in Sydney Rd (pictured right in the old newspaper clipping), drinking with the likes of Manly rugby royalty Hugh Thompson and Rusty Mackie. He later relocated to the Steyne Round Bar and imbibed there for many years but was always keen to hear any Marlins news. Jungles – a proud military man who was once an operative for the Secret Service - was given a solid send-off, capped off by one of his sons winning the last meat tray of the night and receiving a standing ovation from the beer garden faithful. We always suspected there was a patron saint of meat trays and here's your proof. Jungles was 84. Rest easy, soldier. |
Marlins Fillets was honoured to be part of a special wake at the Hotel Steyne earlier this month, commemorating the passing of local character James "Jungles" Parker. Jungles (pictured right, next to Marlins tragic Jamie Davidson) was a keen Manly rugby supporter and a regular visitor to the old licensed club in Sydney Rd (pictured right in the old newspaper clipping), drinking with the likes of Manly rugby royalty Hugh Thompson and Rusty Mackie. He later relocated to the Steyne Round Bar and imbibed there for many years but was always keen to hear any Marlins news. Jungles – a proud military man who was once an operative for the Secret Service - was given a solid send-off, capped off by one of his sons winning the last meat tray of the night and receiving a standing ovation from the beer garden faithful. We always suspected there was a patron saint of meat trays and here's your proof. Jungles was 84. Rest easy, soldier. |
Michael Hooper's soft launch into coaching was short but very sweet. The former Wallabies skipper joined good mate and Marlins head coach Sam Lane early in our pre-season program to impart some of his knowledge and join in the sessions. Hoops was to be by Lane's side when the Shute Shield season kicked off, but a surprise call-up from Japanese League One side Toyota Verblitz dramatically changed plans. The 125-Test veteran is pulling the boots on again for the remainder of the Japanese season but may still play a role in our season. "He ended up in full training with us for about three weeks, so it was great for the boys to see that next level of intensity he brings to everything he does," Lane said. |
Michael Hooper's soft launch into coaching was short but very sweet. The former Wallabies skipper joined good mate and Marlins head coach Sam Lane early in our pre-season program to impart some of his knowledge and join in the sessions. Hoops was to be by Lane's side when the Shute Shield season kicked off, but a surprise call-up from Japanese League One side Toyota Verblitz dramatically changed plans. The 125-Test veteran is pulling the boots on again for the remainder of the Japanese season but may still play a role in our season. "He ended up in full training with us for about three weeks, so it was great for the boys to see that next level of intensity he brings to everything he does," Lane said. |
A pair of Manly socks travelled more than 17,000 kilometres to feature in one of Wales rugby's biggest days earlier this month. With the help of ex-GM Greg Marr, former Marlins player and present Cameron Douglas sent son Max a pair of red and blue socks so he could wear them in the Scarlets' Origin Round clash against Munster. The round celebrates grassroots rugby, with players encouraged to wear their old colours. Max, who left the Marlins a couple of years ago to pursue a career overseas, has helped the Llanelli-based Scarlets into eighth spot and in with a chance of making the United Rugby Championship play-offs. The big lock is equal third – alongside teammate and ex-Waratah Sam Lousi – for tackles made in the competition and fifth in lineout steals. After initially living with fellow Marlin, Jack Walsh, Max is now staying two storeys below Marlins junior teammate, Harry Wilson, who plays for Newport Dragons. |
A pair of Manly socks travelled more than 17,000 kilometres to feature in one of Wales rugby's biggest days earlier this month. With the help of ex-GM Greg Marr, former Marlins player and present Cameron Douglas sent son Max a pair of red and blue socks so he could wear them in the Scarlets' Origin Round clash against Munster. The round celebrates grassroots rugby, with players encouraged to wear their old colours. Max, who left the Marlins a couple of years ago to pursue a career overseas, has helped the Llanelli-based Scarlets into eighth spot and in with a chance of making the United Rugby Championship play-offs. The big lock is equal third – alongside teammate and ex-Waratah Sam Lousi – for tackles made in the competition and fifth in lineout steals. After initially living with fellow Marlin, Jack Walsh, Max is now staying two storeys below Marlins junior teammate, Harry Wilson, who plays for Newport Dragons. |
 |
If you've noticed your golf partner's work off the tee improving over the last few weeks, there's a fair chance they've been working overtime on their long game ahead of our annual Marlins golf day. And why not when there's $20,000 up for grabs to anyone who cards an ace on Wakehurst's par three 16th. Details and bookings in the link below, along with the link to our value-heavy game day membership packages. And be sure to mark down August 1 in your diaries. That's when our British Lions-themed annual lunch will occur at the Four Seasons Hotel. https://www.iwannaticket.com.au/event/2025-manly-rugby-golf-day-MzI2ODc https://www.iwannaticket.com.au/event/manly-rugby-football-club-memberships-2025-MzEzODE Finally, we all know Manly is a great place to live. As a result, it seems Manly is full. We have some great young players who require some assistance with accommodation - if you know of a vacant house, granny flat or even some sort of share accommodation assistance, please reach out to our general managers on manager@manlyrugby.com.au |
If you've noticed your golf partner's work off the tee improving over the last few weeks, there's a fair chance they've been working overtime on their long game ahead of our annual Marlins golf day. And why not when there's $20,000 up for grabs to anyone who cards an ace on Wakehurst's par three 16th. Details and bookings in the link below, along with the link to our value-heavy game day membership packages. And be sure to mark down August 1 in your diaries. That's when our British Lions-themed annual lunch will occur at the Four Seasons Hotel. https://www.iwannaticket.com.au/event/2025-manly-rugby-golf-day-MzI2ODc https://www.iwannaticket.com.au/event/manly-rugby-football-club-memberships-2025-MzEzODE Finally, we all know Manly is a great place to live. As a result, it seems Manly is full. We have some great young players who require some assistance with accommodation - if you know of a vacant house, granny flat or even some sort of share accommodation assistance, please reach out to our general managers on manager@manlyrugby.com.au |
 |
|
|
| |
