In the news this week: The Wait Is Over Marlins' Love Is Genuine Friday Night's Alright For Colts Taking A Grand Stand Rivals Rile Marlins Rep Honours For Manly New Boy Derby Date Looms Large Mob Descends On Tank Doc Dished Out The Medicine
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In the news this week: The Wait Is Over Marlins' Love Is Genuine Friday Night's Alright For Colts Taking A Grand Stand Rivals Rile Marlins Rep Honours For Manly New Boy Derby Date Looms Large Mob Descends On Tank Doc Dished Out The Medicine
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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. |
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It has been 232 days since the Marlins last ran out in the Shute Shield, so it's little wonder we became so emotional when photos of the Manly Oval goalposts being erected pinged into our in-box during the week. Who doesn’t love the start of a new footy season? For new first grade coach Sam Lane, the excitement is palpable as a new career begins. Marlins Fillets sat down with the boss over a coffee in the lead-up to the new season. MF: How are you feeling a couple of days out from your first grade coaching debut? SL: I'm sure I'll get a bit nervous on the day but the good thing is I had a taste of it last year when I was helping run first grade when Chris (Delooze) was away, so I kind of know what the day entails. MF: What's your assessment of pre-season? SL: I think we learned a lot from it. We're starting to create an environment where guys buy into the bigger picture of hopefully having really strong squads from fourth grade right through to first grade. You saw the success Easts had with that last year (all four grades made the grand final) and that's where we want to get to. There's a good feeling amongst the playing group and we'll see how our results play out. MF: What sort of coach will you be and how will Manly approach games? SL: I'm obviously an attack-minded coach and have certain views and philosophies around the way I like to play. I think there's also a historical fabric to every club. Manly crowds have enjoyed us playing attractive rugby in the past. For a while we went with a big pack and an explosive, strong and powerful side that didn’t move the ball too much. We've got some skilled players and added pace this year with players with genuine X factor. I want us to move the ball and play the space, whether it be with a kick run or pass. We've done a lot of skill work over the summer and I want our guys to be brave enough to use it. At the same time, we've got to be comfortable without the ball. We may not be the biggest team in the comp but I expect us to stay in the fight for 80 minutes and compete hard on every play. MF: It’s been 28 long years since your father Tim guided us to our last premiership. Why such a long drought? SL: If you look at my playing days, I think we won two or three minor premierships but never won a grand final. Looking back, it can be a blessing and a curse playing rugby in Manly because it’s such a nice part of the world and a good time is just around the corner. We are capable of beating anyone on our day and then losing to a team we should beat the next week. I don’t think it's choking as such but we've got to make sure our consistency levels are better. There can’t be such a big gap between our best and worst. I've watched some great documentaries about clubs breaking long hoodoos and the common theme is they all embraced the challenge. I’d like to think that’s our mindset. MF: What's your message to Manly fans? SL: We actually talked about this as a group…how much the club means to people in the community. Two games stick out for me from last year – Randwick and Paramatta. I went to the 1883 Club after the game and people were so genuinely happy for us and thanked us. They were so invested and so into it. After a loss it's the complete opposite and heads drop. If we show enough energy on the field, I know our supporters will do the same off it. We want to make people's weeks by winning games for Manly. MF: Finally, it doesn’t get much tougher than first round against Northern Suburbs? SL: It doesn't but that's a good thing. They have been the benchmark club for years. We will know exactly where we are at after playing them. I can’t wait and I know the boys are the same. Get your tickets for the Norths game HERE |
It has been 232 days since the Marlins last ran out in the Shute Shield, so it's little wonder we became so emotional when photos of the Manly Oval goalposts being erected pinged into our in-box during the week. Who doesn’t love the start of a new footy season? For new first grade coach Sam Lane, the excitement is palpable as a new career begins. Marlins Fillets sat down with the boss over a coffee in the lead-up to the new season. MF: How are you feeling a couple of days out from your first grade coaching debut? SL: I'm sure I'll get a bit nervous on the day but the good thing is I had a taste of it last year when I was helping run first grade when Chris (Delooze) was away, so I kind of know what the day entails. MF: What's your assessment of pre-season? SL: I think we learned a lot from it. We're starting to create an environment where guys buy into the bigger picture of hopefully having really strong squads from fourth grade right through to first grade. You saw the success Easts had with that last year (all four grades made the grand final) and that's where we want to get to. There's a good feeling amongst the playing group and we'll see how our results play out. MF: What sort of coach will you be and how will Manly approach games? SL: I'm obviously an attack-minded coach and have certain views and philosophies around the way I like to play. I think there's also a historical fabric to every club. Manly crowds have enjoyed us playing attractive rugby in the past. For a while we went with a big pack and an explosive, strong and powerful side that didn’t move the ball too much. We've got some skilled players and added pace this year with players with genuine X factor. I want us to move the ball and play the space, whether it be with a kick run or pass. We've done a lot of skill work over the summer and I want our guys to be brave enough to use it. At the same time, we've got to be comfortable without the ball. We may not be the biggest team in the comp but I expect us to stay in the fight for 80 minutes and compete hard on every play. MF: It’s been 28 long years since your father Tim guided us to our last premiership. Why such a long drought? SL: If you look at my playing days, I think we won two or three minor premierships but never won a grand final. Looking back, it can be a blessing and a curse playing rugby in Manly because it’s such a nice part of the world and a good time is just around the corner. We are capable of beating anyone on our day and then losing to a team we should beat the next week. I don’t think it's choking as such but we've got to make sure our consistency levels are better. There can’t be such a big gap between our best and worst. I've watched some great documentaries about clubs breaking long hoodoos and the common theme is they all embraced the challenge. I’d like to think that’s our mindset. MF: What's your message to Manly fans? SL: We actually talked about this as a group…how much the club means to people in the community. Two games stick out for me from last year – Randwick and Paramatta. I went to the 1883 Club after the game and people were so genuinely happy for us and thanked us. They were so invested and so into it. After a loss it's the complete opposite and heads drop. If we show enough energy on the field, I know our supporters will do the same off it. We want to make people's weeks by winning games for Manly. MF: Finally, it doesn’t get much tougher than first round against Northern Suburbs? SL: It doesn't but that's a good thing. They have been the benchmark club for years. We will know exactly where we are at after playing them. I can’t wait and I know the boys are the same. Get your tickets for the Norths game HERE |
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There was a poignant moment while Sam drained the last of his cappuccino as the Fillets interview wound up at the world-famous Manly Deli (owner Marlon is naturally a big Marlins fan). A rusted-on Manly fan, who has been facing some serious health issues of late, sidled up to Lane and wished him all the best for the season before discussing the Norths game in depth. "What about that…here's a bloke who's got a lot going on in his life yet he's so excited to have the rugby back and genuinely hopes we do well," the coach said, clearly moved by the gesture. "To take time out to do is just a reminder of what the club means to the people." |
There was a poignant moment while Sam drained the last of his cappuccino as the Fillets interview wound up at the world-famous Manly Deli (owner Marlon is naturally a big Marlins fan). A rusted-on Manly fan, who has been facing some serious health issues of late, sidled up to Lane and wished him all the best for the season before discussing the Norths game in depth. "What about that…here's a bloke who's got a lot going on in his life yet he's so excited to have the rugby back and genuinely hopes we do well," the coach said, clearly moved by the gesture. "To take time out to do is just a reminder of what the club means to the people." |
If you have not yet signed up for a 2025 Membership or an 1883 Club Membership, which you should do, tickets are now on sale for our first home game of 2025 against North this Saturday, April 5. Book your tickets here. |
If you have not yet signed up for a 2025 Membership or an 1883 Club Membership, which you should do, tickets are now on sale for our first home game of 2025 against North this Saturday, April 5. Book your tickets here. |
Friday Night's Alright For Colts |
Friday Night's Alright For Colts |
You actually don’t have to wait until Saturday for your Manly Oval rugby fix. Our Colts are in action against Norths on Friday night, looking to build on a good first year under head coach Ed Morgan. We made the semi-finals in 1s and 3s last year and finished with an overall win percentage of 55% across the three teams. Morgan has placed a heavy emphasis on defence in 2025, with first grade leaking four tries per game on average last year. "We hope to bring greater defensive starch to our game this year, with clear improvement needed," he said. "If we can set a strong defensive line and play in the right parts of the field, the points will come." Word of our Colts program has spread quickly, leading to an influx of players from outside the area coming to Manly this year. A pre-season camp at Nelson Bay sped up the bonding process. Morgan said: "It was a great success in bringing the boys together and ensuring they're very much on the same page, both on and off the field. "The boys are excited to kick off the 2025 season under Manly Oval's Friday Night Lights - a fixture that became a favourite for the Colts throughout the 2024 season." The Felons Lounge (upstairs) will be open for a drink and the barbecue running downstairs for those looking for refreshment and food. |
You actually don’t have to wait until Saturday for your Manly Oval rugby fix. Our Colts are in action against Norths on Friday night, looking to build on a good first year under head coach Ed Morgan. We made the semi-finals in 1s and 3s last year and finished with an overall win percentage of 55% across the three teams. Morgan has placed a heavy emphasis on defence in 2025, with first grade leaking four tries per game on average last year. "We hope to bring greater defensive starch to our game this year, with clear improvement needed," he said. "If we can set a strong defensive line and play in the right parts of the field, the points will come." Word of our Colts program has spread quickly, leading to an influx of players from outside the area coming to Manly this year. A pre-season camp at Nelson Bay sped up the bonding process. Morgan said: "It was a great success in bringing the boys together and ensuring they're very much on the same page, both on and off the field. "The boys are excited to kick off the 2025 season under Manly Oval's Friday Night Lights - a fixture that became a favourite for the Colts throughout the 2024 season." The Felons Lounge (upstairs) will be open for a drink and the barbecue running downstairs for those looking for refreshment and food. |
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The Manly Marlins will wear orange socks on Saturday to proudly promote the Grand Stand against Domestic Abuse Round. We encourage fans and the local community to join the cause by coming along to the game sporting something orange and also by visiting the Grand Stand marquee to receive a sticker and sign a pledge to end domestic and family violence. The following stats are quite confronting and frightening: + On average, one woman a week is killed by her intimate partner. + Domestic violence affects every community. Northern Sydney Police recorded 1,378 domestic assault incidents from Jul 2023- June 2024. This likely represents only 40% of actual incidents due to under-reporting. + Physical violence is just one form of domestic violence. + Everyone has a role in preventing domestic violence. "The Marlins stand for more than footy—we stand for our community, and we take that responsibility to heart," president Matt Curll said. "Domestic violence affects every community – there’s no excuse. We’re proud to take a stand and be part of the change." |
The Manly Marlins will wear orange socks on Saturday to proudly promote the Grand Stand against Domestic Abuse Round. We encourage fans and the local community to join the cause by coming along to the game sporting something orange and also by visiting the Grand Stand marquee to receive a sticker and sign a pledge to end domestic and family violence. The following stats are quite confronting and frightening: + On average, one woman a week is killed by her intimate partner. + Domestic violence affects every community. Northern Sydney Police recorded 1,378 domestic assault incidents from Jul 2023- June 2024. This likely represents only 40% of actual incidents due to under-reporting. + Physical violence is just one form of domestic violence. + Everyone has a role in preventing domestic violence. "The Marlins stand for more than footy—we stand for our community, and we take that responsibility to heart," president Matt Curll said. "Domestic violence affects every community – there’s no excuse. We’re proud to take a stand and be part of the change." |
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Should our Marlins need any extra motivation heading into the new season, one look at the Shute Shield social media pages should do the trick. At the competition's media launch during the week, the 12 captains were asked a series of questions about their rivals. Manly didn’t receive a single vote among the skippers when they were asked what team (other than their own) would make the 2025 grand final. They also failed to poll in "the team that will surprise the most" category. But the Marlins did get three votes (the second highest tally behind Uni) when the players were asked which team will surprisingly not make the top six. And Manly Oval only received one vote for the hardest away trip in the game category (Souths topped that poll). Not surprisingly, the Rats and Marlins each polled a vote each in the "team you love to beat the most". Make 'em eat their words, boys. |
Should our Marlins need any extra motivation heading into the new season, one look at the Shute Shield social media pages should do the trick. At the competition's media launch during the week, the 12 captains were asked a series of questions about their rivals. Manly didn’t receive a single vote among the skippers when they were asked what team (other than their own) would make the 2025 grand final. They also failed to poll in "the team that will surprise the most" category. But the Marlins did get three votes (the second highest tally behind Uni) when the players were asked which team will surprisingly not make the top six. And Manly Oval only received one vote for the hardest away trip in the game category (Souths topped that poll). Not surprisingly, the Rats and Marlins each polled a vote each in the "team you love to beat the most". Make 'em eat their words, boys. |
Rep Honours For Manly New Boy |
Rep Honours For Manly New Boy |
He is yet to pull on a Manly jersey in a competition game but already new hooker Davea Teoteo is turning heads. The former Brumbies Runner will play for the Australian Barbarians against Japan's under-23 side in Coffs Harbour on Saturday. We look forward to getting Teoteo back in coming weeks as he joins a plethora of new faces at the club this year. Charlie Powell, Sione Misiloi, George Simpson, Simon Kennewell, Marcus Tiffen, Ben Di Staso and Brayden Barrett are among the red and blue debutants. We'll do our best to bring their stories to you as the season unfolds. |
He is yet to pull on a Manly jersey in a competition game but already new hooker Davea Teoteo is turning heads. The former Brumbies Runner will play for the Australian Barbarians against Japan's under-23 side in Coffs Harbour on Saturday. We look forward to getting Teoteo back in coming weeks as he joins a plethora of new faces at the club this year. Charlie Powell, Sione Misiloi, George Simpson, Simon Kennewell, Marcus Tiffen, Ben Di Staso and Brayden Barrett are among the red and blue debutants. We'll do our best to bring their stories to you as the season unfolds. |
Months of planning has gone into ensuring the Anzac Day derby runs as smoothly as possible. Last year's game was a sellout and our committee took plenty of learnings from the day, including the need for more refreshment outlets. You can do your bit by pre-purchasing a ticket ahead of time to give us an idea of numbers and prevent congestion at the gates. Click here to secure your ticket to club rugby's biggest day. |
Months of planning has gone into ensuring the Anzac Day derby runs as smoothly as possible. Last year's game was a sellout and our committee took plenty of learnings from the day, including the need for more refreshment outlets. You can do your bit by pre-purchasing a ticket ahead of time to give us an idea of numbers and prevent congestion at the gates. Click here to secure your ticket to club rugby's biggest day. |
Around five decades were represented when a group of Manly Old Boys (MOB) met at the Ivanhoe Hotel this week to catch-up with club stalwart Bruce Morton. Tank, dressed in is beloved Manly tracksuit top, was in fine form as the gang reminisced about the old days and plotted the Marlins' journey through season 2025. The club has set up a special membership package for Bruce and all Manly old boys to attend home games at Manly Oval this year for just $80 (less than $9 per match). |
Around five decades were represented when a group of Manly Old Boys (MOB) met at the Ivanhoe Hotel this week to catch-up with club stalwart Bruce Morton. Tank, dressed in is beloved Manly tracksuit top, was in fine form as the gang reminisced about the old days and plotted the Marlins' journey through season 2025. The club has set up a special membership package for Bruce and all Manly old boys to attend home games at Manly Oval this year for just $80 (less than $9 per match). |
Doc Dished Out The Medicine |
Doc Dished Out The Medicine |
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You may have read about the passing of Wallaby #462 - Manly's brilliant John O'Gorman – over the off-season. You may not have realised that O'Gorman enjoyed an extraordinary life as an international rugby player while juggling his role as a practising doctor. While touring with the Wallabies in 1966/67, Doc O'Gorman came to the rescue of Welsh centre Gordon Britton after the player suffered a fit and began to choke. "O’Gorman realised the player had swallowed his tongue and called to the winger to bring the corner flag and stuck it in his mouth to jam it open so he could get his finger in and pull his tongue out," Wallaby teammate Ross Tulloch recalled. Known as "Cyrano" due to his sizeable nose, backrower O'Gorman played 18 Tests for Australia and was regarded as an integral part of the Wallabies' success when they went from easybeats to world beaters. "It was a great honour to represent your country," he said. "Money didn’t come into it in my day - even when you played for your state or the Wallabies, you got a pat on the back and that was about all." O'Gorman's memorial service was held in Manly earlier this year following his death at age 88. Local journalist Theo Clark has compiled a fascinating tribute to the dashing forward who played for Manly from 1965 to 67. You can read Theo's excellent tribute in full here. |
You may have read about the passing of Wallaby #462 - Manly's brilliant John O'Gorman – over the off-season. You may not have realised that O'Gorman enjoyed an extraordinary life as an international rugby player while juggling his role as a practising doctor. While touring with the Wallabies in 1966/67, Doc O'Gorman came to the rescue of Welsh centre Gordon Britton after the player suffered a fit and began to choke. "O’Gorman realised the player had swallowed his tongue and called to the winger to bring the corner flag and stuck it in his mouth to jam it open so he could get his finger in and pull his tongue out," Wallaby teammate Ross Tulloch recalled. Known as "Cyrano" due to his sizeable nose, backrower O'Gorman played 18 Tests for Australia and was regarded as an integral part of the Wallabies' success when they went from easybeats to world beaters. "It was a great honour to represent your country," he said. "Money didn’t come into it in my day - even when you played for your state or the Wallabies, you got a pat on the back and that was about all." O'Gorman's memorial service was held in Manly earlier this year following his death at age 88. Local journalist Theo Clark has compiled a fascinating tribute to the dashing forward who played for Manly from 1965 to 67. You can read Theo's excellent tribute in full here. |
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