Central Blues FC News

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

2009-03-12T11:06:00.000-07:00

Much has been said about this seasons OAFL introduction of an official "Reserves" competition league - with a real season fixture and a real trophy and title on offer. The new "Reserves" league can be seen as an indicator of the continuing natural development of the league and game in Toronto. Teams are recruiting and keeping new players more effectively than ever before and the growing base of players continuing on from their first, second seasons coupled with the seasoned veterans, the league and its clubs have never been in a stronger position in terms of the popularity of the game.

Last year 5 recreational games were played between composite sides hosted by the Central Blues and the Broadview Hawks. They were composite sides because often you would find players from other clubs outside of the Blues and Hawks joining in for extra run. Sometimes you would even find Blues playing in the Hawks jumpers and vice versa (yes it was they were dirty acts - but it just served to show how little these games mattered). The composite Hawks won the first few before the Blues got some revenge later in the year. In the end the scores never mattered as there was never a trophy and title on the line - and the sides composition never allowed for that pride felt when wearing YOUR club jumper. And more importantly it was just a chance for a somewhat regulated game of footy - where new players could get a taste of what the game was about and oldies got a chance to relive bygone glory days.

With the introduction of an official title and trophy on the line, coupled with increasing competition for a spot on the "Seniors" squad - players will need to take these games more seriously. I know for a fact that the Blues coaching team this year will be using performances by the players in the reserves games as ne way of selecting some players. So those players on the fringe of selection, and even those players who think they have a permanent spot in their clubs senior side should sit up and take notice. Many of the OAFL clubs have never been in such a luxurious position (in terms of the number talented players to select from) as they find themselves with as they head into the upcoming season. Unfortunately there will always be players who miss out in being selected to suit up with the "Seniors". It will burn - when you think you've done all you can at training and still missed out on a coveted spot. Use that pain and hunger to drive your performances in the reserves games. Because you can be damn sure that the coaches will be watching.

Last year there was one "recreational" game which will stick in my mind more than the rest. This "rec" game was not organised by the OAFL. It was an initiative between the OAFL's newest member the Quebec Saints and the Central Blues with the two sides facing off in Ottawa after the Blues defeated the Swans in Rnd 5 of the 2008 season. The history of Saints and the Blues are of course inextricably intertwined - with former Blues player Luke Anderson leading the way in the creation of this Quebec club and new Blues Coach Jaye Macumber along with player Jeff Lavoie being some of the Saints big names at the time of their creation. It was strange - even heart-wrenching to see the "Blues" players LA, Jmac and Jeff pulling off the Blues jumpers and replacing them with the Saints then-uniforms. It didn't seem right - these guys had only minutes earlier lined up and successfully went into battle for the glory of the Navy Blue jumper, but that was the scene.

Traitors

Regardless once you cross that white line - friend or foe - the game is on and you take no prisoners. It was a tightly fought contest, with neither side willing to back down. In the end the fresher Saints overcame a last quarter stand by the Blues to win their first ever game (Full-Match report available HERE). The Blues had become the Saints first scalp albeit in a "friendly rec game". I don't remember the final score - but I can remember the sound of the Saints players singing victoriously. And I know I didn't like it. Sure the Blues squad had many players who were lining up for the second game in a row (after downing the Swans) - but that is bittersweet consolation. I for one do not enjoy accepting defeat - and especially one as historical as this match was.

That is why I am specifically pencilling in the Blues v Saints game in Rnd 6 fixture in my calendar! I suggest if you're not lucky enough to be playing in this game - that you find yourself a prime seat to watch the spectacle set to unfold in this game. The Saints will be hungry to show their first up win against the Blues was no fluke, while the Blues have unfinished business to exact some sweet sweet revenge. The continuing rivalry between these two sides looks set to continue with two games (Rnd 10) up for grabs in 2009. Set aside the dates and make sure you're available, as there is nothing sweeter than beating a friend - and I know that as much as the Blues will enjoy giving this Quebec side a good old fashion flogging, I also know that there'll be a few Fosters shared with each other post game.

Blues 2009 Season Schedule Released

2009-03-05T07:37:00.000-08:00

Click HERE to see the schedule.

Central Blues 2008 Highlight Video Released

2009-01-31T08:01:00.000-08:00

The Blues have released their 2008 highlights video. Check it out!

Creator of the video - Rob Chapman has advised that when viewing the video that you make sure to click on the HQ - High Quality option to see the video in all it's glory!! GREAT WORK Chaps!!

Blues 2009 Recruitment Poster

2009-01-21T07:01:00.001-08:00

Jmac - The Coach

2009-01-13T10:06:00.000-08:00

Article profiling the history of the Blues 2009 Senior Head Coach - Jaye Macumber has just been posted on the Central Blues Official Blog.

Check out the story HERE.

Central Blues AGM Announced

2008-12-10T12:55:00.001-08:00

Blues Club President sent out an email announcing the AGM for the Central Blues Football Club. The AGM, to be held Saturday 10 January 2009.

Of note the announcement also advised that new coach Jaye Macumber will also be in attendance - where he will be taking in the player presentations recently requested by the coach.

The venue for the meeting has yet been disclosed - and will be advised at a later date.

Here is the full email from Chaps:

Hey Blues,

We will be having the Blues Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sat Jan 10th 2009 at 12pm. Like all previous years we ask that ALL Blues attend.

This will be an info meeting that will recap what the Blues did in 08, and what we plan to do for 09. We will be briefly discussing all departments of the Club off and on the field, as well as revealing summarized results of the Annual Survey.

We will be also electing for executive positions. Currently many of the present Blues executive will be re-running, but please let me know in advance if you are willing to step up to any positions (see below for Exec Positions). The entire club will vote at the AGM. Also this gives an opportunity to anyone on the Blues to bring anything to the Club they wish to suggest for 2008.

If you have something you would like to present to the team or discuss at the AGM this is a great time to do it.

Jaye Macumber will also be in attendance to discuss the Blues coaching plan for 2009. Jaye will be addressing the club and also has a his group presentations which he highlighted in his past email. I'll have more info as the time come closer.

See you then.

Chaps

Exec positions:
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Director of Sponsorship
Director of Fundraising
Director of Recruitment and development
Director of Social

Third Time Lucky for the Blu-Tang Clan with their first play off outing

2008-11-30T16:34:00.001-08:00

The 2008 Blu-Tang Clan

The Blu-Tang Clan 2008 squad managed to pull off a surprise victory in its third TSSC Dodgeball Tournament. After losing 7-1 in its first match against the much-hyped Dropped Balls team, it looked like it would be a long day for the Clan. Players of note: Mel Cain was solid contributor holding the fort - and often finding herself one out against a full opposing side. Knackers was disappointing after self-appointing himself as captain. Carlos was his ever energetic self - however was often targeted by the opponents for his outwardly enthusiastic efforts. New clan recruit Jack Humphrey helped inject some youth into the aging squad and was a big part in assisting with the Clan winning their sole game in their first match for the day. J Cain pulled up limp after this match - however managed to battle through for the rest of the game. The team doctors told BluesNews that they expected J Cain to be fine for the start of pre-season training. After a quick regroup at the JD Bar (aka Knackers very own tailgate party held out the back of his truck) held in the St Luke's carpark - the squad refueled with a quick couple of beers. A short but blunt assessment by self-appointed team captain Knackers that the team awful in its first outing was just what the doctor ordered.

Apart from time spent at the JD Bar, this was the only time D-Train smiled all day - as white-line fever kicked in for the passionate big-man.

Knackers throwing his shoulder out in the first match

The side regrouping after a demoralising 7-1 loss at the JD Bar

The fired-up squad came out with all guns blazing. But the opposing side (Team Alma), were seemingly just as hungry. The games were all close. And with two minutes remaining - the score was at 2-2. To win the match - the Clan had to win the game outright or have the most players remaining on the siren. Climatically this was when the Clan spirit came to the fore. After playing some great defence, the Clan found themselves 3 v 1 with M Cain, K Naismith and J Humphrey scaring the shit out of a 12 year old asian girl - the Clan were just too strong. R Chapman was superb with some incredible dodging.

K Naismith, M Cain and J Humphrey bully their opponent.

Carlos finishing off the Team Alma

Another session at the JD Bar - another couple of beers. Next up, Team Headshots. This was to become a bloodbath - only the wrong way. The clan copped a 10-1 thrashing. It appeared the beers were kicking in, with the squad more intent on waiting for time run out on the game so they could continue on with another session of in-game tailgating. Knackers played some selfish dodgeball hiding behind teammates even pulling teammates into the line of fire. Chapman was again a solid contributor alongside Hastrich who was picked on for his short shorts by the arrogant Team Headshots.

Despite some radical game techniques the Clan copped 10-1 thrashing

Following their 3rd session at the JD Bar - the Clan discovered their one win for the day was enough to put them into the play-offs. The Clan was to play the Thunder Chickens who was the bottom side from the higher Dip Division (The Clan were suprisingly allocated to the lowest Dive division despite their reputation). After a heated started the Clan showed why they should have been allocated in the higher division 4-1 up. It looked like the Clan was on their way to some finals glory. Unfortunately it was not to be - as the Thunder Chickens through caution to the wind and started playing some very aggressive dodgeball. The beers really started to kick in as the Clan rapidly deteriorated as the match went on - before going down 5-4 in a heartbreaker.

Team Manager - Dan Zimmerman told BluesNews that the 5-4 loss in the first play off game was disappointing, but that it was just another lesson for the developing side. He was excited by the relatively inexperienced 2008 squad - with half the team made-up of Australians (who all had never played the game before) it was always going to be a tough day. He singled out Mel Cain and Krystle Naismith as the surprise players in his opinion. With Knackers the disappointing player.

BREAKING NEWS: BLU-TANG CLAN LATE INCLUSION - CARLOS!!!!

2008-11-28T11:13:00.000-08:00

This just in - Team Publicist D-Train has just called BluesNews exclusively to announce that Carl Hastrich has been a late inclusion into the Blu-Tang Clan. The lanky Aussie will add much needed speed and agility to the top heavy side.

Hastrich's publicist and agents were unavailable for comment when apprached by BluesNews about the late inclusion.

Former Blues Jeff Lavoie Best Canadian in Quebec Saints

2008-11-28T10:47:00.000-08:00

Former Blues player Jeff Lavoie won the Best Canadian/Non-Australian Award for the Quebec Saints. Lavoie who ran away with top honours finishing with 46 votes.

For the full run down of the Quebec Saints awards night click HERE.

Blu-Tang Clan Ain’t Nothin’ to Mess With

2008-11-28T05:40:00.000-08:00

In a press conference held Thursday morning by the Blue’s own Daniel Zimmerman (D-Train), an announcement was made regarding the return of the Blu-Tang Clan. We here at Blues Blog somehow managed to find ourselves on the outside looking in again, as we were not notified of the press conference ahead of time. Rumor has it that this oversight has to do with some questionable sources that we have used in the past. We are upset by these claims and feel that they are absolutely unsubstantiated. Blues Blog always has, and will remain, committed to upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity. Fortunately, we were able to obtain the transcript from the press conference

Daniel Zimmerman: Ladies and gentlemen of the press, I would like to thank all of you for coming here today. I know your time is short, so I will keep my statement brief and then will open the floor for questions.

As you are all aware, the Central Blues have a large social component to their club and try to participate in several functions during the off-season to keep up camaraderie and bromance. For the past two years, we have had an unofficial team entered into the Toronto Central Sport & Social Club’s (TCSSC) ‘Globo Gym Dodgeball Tournament.’ I am pleased to announce that this team, now officially named ‘The Blu-Tang Clan,’ will be returning for a third tournament.
The following Central Blues players have been named to the squad: Rob Chapman (aka Chaps, aka Robo-Cop), Mark Dobson (aka Knackers, aka Fred Astaire), Jason Cain (aka J.C., aka Dr. Pain), and Daniel Zimmerman (aka D-Train, aka Danimal).

The remainder of the squad will be made up of wives, fiancees, girlfriends, and friends: Mel Cain, Krystle Naismith, Lorien Newell, Birgit Woods, Nick Dirago, and Jack Humphrey.

I would now like to open the floor for questions.

Questions:

The Toronto Star: Daniel, have the Central Blues made any decisions as to the coaching staff for the tournament?

D-Train: I would like to reiterate that this is not an official Blues Team, despite the fact that there are several Blues players on the roster. And although there have not been any formal discussions concerning coaching or leadership, we have a good idea of who we want to lead our troops into battle.

The Toronto Star: And who will that be?

D-Train: Although he is no longer under contract with the club, we feel that Jason Cain would be ideal to coach the team based on his past experience and results as a player-coach. So, if he is willing, I would like to see him in that role. As for the leadership group, I was approached by Knackers early on in the selection process as he was very interested in playing a major role on the team. With his understanding of dodgeball strategy, I think it will be invaluable to have him captain the team, along with his fiancee, Krystle Naismith.

Sports Illustrated: Daniel, the announcement of the team comes awfully close to the start of the tournament. Why was the team named so late, and do you have any concerns about the team coming together and gelling for the tournament?

D-Train: Yes, the team was named closer to the start of the tournament than I think we would have liked but these things happen when you only have a limited number of spots on the roster and there are a lot of skilled players that could contribute to the team. Additionally, there were attempts to sign Ewan Williams (Obi) to the team but these fell through at the last minute for the second year in a row, this time because of a scheduling conflict. As for the team coming together, I have no concerns in that regard because I know what each of these players is capable of doing.

BluesNews: Daniel, on that note, you have only included 4 Blues players among the 10 players named. Why did you not include more Blues?

D-Train: Is this a serious question? Did you want us to dress up the guys in women’s outfits? It’s a co-ed tournament, so there are some spots that obviously can’t go to Blues players. That being said, there are 4 Blues and 2 respektators in the line-up - a healthy dose of blue, in my opinion.

Hamilton Spectator: Fair enough, but what about the inclusion of Nick Dirago, an OAFL opponent with the Hamilton Wildcats? Is there any truth to the rumor that he is unhappy and is looking to come to the Blues?

D-Train: Of course he’s unhappy in Hamilton - it’s Hamilton. All kidding aside, Nick is a great guy and a great contributor on the footy field and the dodgeball court. He made some great plays in our inaugural tournament in 2006 and I look forward to having him back on the team. As for footy, I personally would be happy to have him in a Blues uniform but this is strictly a dodgeball tournament and we are not using this as an opportunity to draw players to the Blues from other teams.

Dodgeball Weekly: There have been quite a few changes with the line-up compared to previous years. Do you feel that this is related to your general under-achievement at the last two tournaments?

D-Train: I don’t deem our past tournaments to be under-achievements. In our first tournament, we were coming in with an inexperienced side and were short on numbers for a large part of the day. Sullada did what he could to carry the team but in the end it wasn’t enough. Last year we had quite a bit of turnover but we did perform quite well and lost a lot of close matches and definitely improved on our record. We did lose a few key players that I would have loved to see in the line-up this year but things change. Bridgy and V are out of the country; Bridle boycotted the tournament and basically refused to let us negotiate with KGB; and Broseph’s arm is getting a little too old to carry a team anymore. That being said, I am happy with this year’s team because we have kept some good experienced players and injected some more experience, along with enthusiasm, and quality players.

Sports Illustrated: What about the players you did bring back? It seems that you kept a lot of size but not much else… why did you stick with Chaps and D-Train in the line-up when quicker players were available?

D-Train’s Agent: Have you ever seen a dodgeball game? It’s just like footy - different players contribute in different ways. There are no questions about Chaps or D-Train and how they can contribute; they are both agile big men. If you don’t think Chaps can move, then you haven’t seen the video from last year’s tournament. And the extra power that comes with their size can’t be overstated.

ESPN: Daniel, I have it on good authority that the reason the team was named so late is because it took a great deal of political maneuvering by the Blues Executive just to have the TCSSC allow your team into the tournament because of your behaviour in previous tournaments.

D-Train: Time to get new sources then, jerk. You want to be banned like ‘Blues Blog’ (muttering under his breath)? There were a couple of arguments during previous tournaments that involved some of our players. Most of these issues had to do with other teams cheating or taking head shots at our players. We do not take attempts to injure our players lightly, and I feel that we responded appropriately and will continue to do so.

CTV News: So you’re saying we could see some more issues this weekend?

D-Train: I have talked to the team about it and we will try to deal with these situations diplomatically as they arise. But I can’t say it won’t happen again.

NOW!: Daniel, Any plans following the tournament?

D-Train: Yes, Chaps has been gracious to offer his place for post-tournament celebrations. As usual, this will be by invitation only (Blues, Respektators, and friends only). There has been talk of the rock band Grady putting on a concert for us, but we need to finalize the details. We have time for one more question.

Dodge This News: How do you feel about the draw and how far are you expecting the Blu-Tang Clan to go this year?

D-Train: We have done some scouting and it looks as though this will be the most competitive tournament to date. That being said, I think the team we have is up for the challenge and once we start playing together, I like our chances. I would like to thank you for your time Ladies and Gentlemen. I look forward to seeing you at our first game this Saturday, November 29th at the gymnasium at St. Luke’s (319 Ossington Avenue) at 2:00 pm.

The 2007 Blu-Tang Clan

Ms. Congeniality Award

(BluesNews would like to thank Daniel Zimmerman's agent for sourcing this report.)

Email from Club President Rob Chapman Announcing Jaye Macumber as Blues 2009 Senior Head Coach

2008-11-26T17:56:00.000-08:00

[Email from Club President Rob Chapman to the Blues playing squad announcing the appointment of Jaye Macumber as the new Senior Head Coach for the Central Blues Football Club]

Hey Blues.

On behalf of the Blues would like to welcome our new Head Coach... Jaye Macumber. Jmac will be stepping up to take on the Blues Head coaching position for 2009. Jaye has been with the Blues since our first regular season game ever... and for those who don't know, travelled down many times over the 3 seasons to play with the Blues all the way from Quebec City.

Jaye has a lot of previous coaching experience back in australia, as well as many years of playing the game. We're really excited to have him come on board. Jaye's plan is to move to Toronto in April, and join us for training then. In the meantime he will select a few of the Blues to look after preseason training. He of course will update you all on that, and all his other plans for next season.

We will also be having a team AGM in early January so keep an eye out for more details on that. As usual we ask all Blues to turn up for updates and discussions about the upcoming year.

Congrats and thanks to Jaye... 2009 is going to be an even better year for the Blues!

President Chaps

BREAKING NEWS: Jaye Macumber To Be Announced as the new Head Coach for the Central Blues

2008-11-25T06:22:00.000-08:00

Jaye Macumber has been rumoured to be the new Head Coach of the Toronto Central Blues for the upcoming 2009 OAFL Season

In breaking news - it has been reported from our club insider that Jaye Macumber will be the new head coach for the Toronto Central Blues Football Club for the 2009 season.

The massive appointment could be announced as early as this afternoon (Tuesday 26 November 2008). Although we have not heard any news of a press conference being planned. But you can bet that we will be reporting on this once it is!

Jaye Macumber comes with a wealth of experience having coached in Australia, and played his entire life throughout Australia. It is anticipated that he will bring a more strategic emphasis on the Blues game plan - as well as continuing the basic skills development of the club.

To further support this leak, it was also reported that Macumber and Blues Club President Rob Chapman was spotted having lunch with celebrity real estate mogul Brad Lamb. Lamb is reknown for sourcing property for celebrities looking at moving into the hottest Toronto real estate. Could it be a coincidence that Mats Sundin's house was recently sold - and then J-Mac is spotted in Toronto with Lamb? We think not.

Skills Videos & Game Review

2008-11-24T08:47:00.001-08:00

For players that are interested in undertaking some home work during the off season to hone in some of their skills, below are some links which may be of assistance. There are videos which may assist you in gaining some better understanding of each of the many skills involved in this game.

We have posted links on the main blog page to some of the videos available on youtube. But THIS site has all of the Auskick videos available for your review.

Of course you can also contact some of the aussie guys like J-mac, Jase, and Knackers if you wanted get some further advice.

Further - we have received positive responses for guys interested in viewing some game footage, which will also have Knackers highlighting certain aspects of play which Blues players can utilise in gaining some greater understanding of their roles. If you have not yet registered your interest - please do so, as we will be gearing the footage discussions to be relevant to your playing position.

Blues Official Website Update

2008-11-17T09:37:00.000-08:00

It has been advised by the Rob Chapman (President) that the Central Blues official website will be back on line in the next few weeks. The website was shut down late in the 2008 season due to technical issues with the server hosting the Blues website.

However work is currently underway in restoring the website back to its former glory days. We will advise as soon as we know more.

New Blues Blog Segment

2008-11-14T07:28:00.000-08:00

A new segment on the Blues Blog was announced this week. The former Blues coach Jason Cain will have his own column "Cains Point of View" where the likeable Aussie will put forward his thoughts on a host of issues around the footy club, within the footy club, about the players and of course the rest of the league.

Keep an eye out for the first instalment soon!

Quebec Saints Get Blogging

2008-11-13T05:55:00.001-08:00

Former Blues player and lifetime Blues Brother Luke Anderson and his club the Quebec Saints have gotten onto the blogging bandwagon.

We at BluesNews hope to eventually team up with the news crew at this developing side to share news from both sides of the border.

Check out their blog HERE.

Jason Cain Press Conference Transcript

2008-10-23T10:58:00.000-07:00

An emotional Jason Cain announces his resignation from the Central Blues Football Club

Blues Blog has finally gotten our filthy hands on the transcript of the press conference called for the announcement that Jason Cain will be indeed stepping down from the head coach position at the Central Blues Football Club. Cain who at times battled to keep his emotions under wrap announced Friday morning that due to commitments outside of football he was unable to continue as head coach of the club which he oversaw for the last two seasons. Club President was also present at the conference and was at times feisty towards a few of the journalists. Here’s the full transcript of the session.

Rob Chapman: Thank you ladies and gentlemen for attending this morning's announcement. As you're all more than aware there has much rumours and innuendo in the press regarding the coaching position of the Blues and the intentions of our coach Jason Cain heading into the 2009 OAFL season. So in a bid to stop anymore reports which we feel puts a negative spotlight onto our club and potentially hinder the continuing success of our club we have called this press conference on behalf of Jason Cain, so without further ado Jason Cain would like to make an announcement.

Jason Cain Announcement:
Jason Cain: Thanks Chaps. It is with both a heavy heart and yet feelings of excitment that I today announce my resignation as Senior Coach of the Central Blues AFC. Family and work commitments will mean that I will no longer be able perform in this position in such a way that the club, players and fans deserve. I will remain with the Blues in a playing capacity and endeavour to help and assist in any form if needed. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the current Blues Executive for their understanding and support. Furthermore I would like to thank the players, who over the last season and a half put their faith in me and achieved goals beyond my expectations. It has been an honour to coach all of these guys. While I very much enjoyed my time as coach, I also feel that I have taught the players all I can during this period and that a more experienced and knowledgeable coach is just what the club requires at this stage to complete our transformation into a premiership team. This is by no means the end, rather the beginning of a dynasty for the Central Blues AFC which I am greatly looking forward to being a part of. Thank you.

Statement from the Club President:
Rob Chapman: On behalf of the club we'd like to thank Jason for all the hard work that he has put in since arriving at our club. It certainly has been one hell of a ride. And we're sure that the club would not be where it is today without the help of good people such as Jason Cain. The development of our Canadian and Australian players this year especially was due to the work that Jason and his coaching department put in throughout the course of season 2008. As Jason has said - this is indeed not the end. Rather we'd like to see this as a driver change. We're still the same old car trying to get to the same destination - and we're sure that Jase will be doing all he can whilst back-seat driving to ensure that we won't be getting too lost on the way there. But at the same time we're not going to be choosing just any old driver and I'd like our players and fans to trust the Club Executive in choosing the right person for this important job who the club will back 100% once appointed. So again, a big thank you to Jason. I can say for a fact that there are not many people who are as passionate about the Blues as Jason is, and without his passion, drive and commitment the Blues would not have achieved what they did. At this time we'd like to take the opportunity to give you, the press the opportunity to put forward your questions. Please one question at a time - we will get through as many people as we can.

Questions:

The Toronto Star: Jase, were you forced into this decision as a result of the Blues loss to the Hawks in the preliminary final?
Jase: Absolutely not. This year’s performance exceeded my initial expectations and goals I set at the beginning of the year. The Blues Executive, players and fans should also be happy with the improvements. I felt that we really lifted in our finals campaign. We played a great game to defeat Guelph the week before and I thought we also played quite well in our loss to the Hawks. In the end, the better team won.

Sports Illustrated: Jase, is there any chance of you staying on in an assistant type role on the coaching team?
Jase: No. I am stepping down from the coaching team. As a player I will always be available to help out guys and offer advice if they ask for it. I will always do whatever I can to help the club if it is needed but otherwise I will be the same as everyone else.

Playboy: Chaps, is it true that the Blues are trying to recruit Premiership Coach Emile Studham as the replacement coach?
Chaps: This rumour is completely untrue. We cannot deny that Mr. Studham's agents have tried to contact us, but at the moment we are not interested in pursuing his services.

BluesNews: Jase, who was the toughest player for you to deal with in your time as coach? And is it true that there was a power struggle between yourself and Mark Dobson towards the end of the season as to who was actually the coach of the club?
Jase: Generally, every player was a pleasure to deal with. Being friends with the players sometimes made things difficult but for most part the guys new the boundaries when I had my 'coaching hat' on. There was certainly no power struggle with Knackers. I invited and encouraged Knackers input and suggestions. He is a much more experienced and knowledgeable footballer than I and has more to offer. During my time as coach I tried to utilize any and all of these types of guys. Knackers was an enormous help to me and deserves his share of the credit for our success this year.

Globe & Mail: Chaps, can you please confirm if it was indeed true that you kicked a goal against the club you are supposedly president of? And if so how do you expect to look your club members, players and fans in the eye at the next club function?
Chaps: I would like to confirm that this game was an exhibition game and I merely played on the other side to see our team from another perspective. I was able to gather research on our squad playing both forward and back, and am using this invaluable info to improve the team for the following season. We are not opposed in making a trade or a signing in the off season to make our goal of competing for the title.

ESPN: Chaps, when will the club be announcing the replacement coach(s)? And how will the decision be made?
Chaps: We plan to make an announcement before the preseason begins in 2009. The decision will be made by our always reliable Executive, and all factors will be weighed in order to make the best decision for the club.

BluesNews: Chaps, can you let us in on who the replacement candidate(s) is/are which the club is currently reviewing?
Chaps: Presently we would not like to reveal any of the coaching candidates. But we do have some in mind and we fell that all candidates could be excellent choices. I'd like to also take the opportunity to quash the rumour that the Blues were looking to sign Don Mathews as head coach. Yes he is most likely going to be back on the free agent market soon, but we feel he will not lead the Blues in the direction we are hoping for.

Toronto Life: Chaps, how can people apply for the coaching position at the Blues? Or will the club only be using head-hunters in their bid to fill this position?
Chaps: This information will be available when we are ready for it to be available.

CTV News: Jase, you're still currently contracted as a player with the Blues. Will you be playing on in the 2009 season or has this decision with the coaching position affected that contract?
Jase: Yes I will be playing in the 2009 season and beyond. Obviously the monetary value of my contract will be affected but that is all.
Chaps: It is true that the Coach portion of Jase's contract will be terminated, along with his no trade clause that was added when he made coach. We have already fielded many offers for a trade for Jase, but at this time we have no intentions of sending him elsewhere. Yet.

BluesNews: Jase - previously you selected the Blues Captain. Does this mean now that since you won't be coaching - that you're a potential to become a candidate to become Captain of the Blues? Should Jacob Sone be watching over his shoulder?
Jase: No. Jacob is the captain of this club. He did a brilliant job this year and has my full support and that of the players to continue in that position. Ultimately Jacobs reappoinment will be an issue for the incoming coaching staff.

TSN: Jase or Chaps: Was this decision a result of Cain asking for more money post the success celebrated by the club in season 2008?
Chaps: If Jase was interested, the Blues would have no issues in making him the highest paid coach in the league as we feel he is more than worth it. Jase's departure has nothing to do with money.

Herald Sun: Jase, did you have any words of advice for the incoming coach?
Jase: Enjoy it. You'll never get an opportunity to lead a better bunch of guys.

Don Cherry: Chaps, you are a disgrace for lining up against your very own team! Even if it was an exhibition game. Why, if Blue was still alive I'd have him bite your balls off. No question. I just wanted to get that off my chest.

BluesNews: Chaps, did you have any words for Don Cherry?
Chaps: None. You're out of your element Cherry.

Toronto Sun: Jase, did you have anyone in mind to step in as your replacement as head coach?
Jase: I'd rather not comment. That is an informed decision for the Exec to make. I will say that there are a number of in-house candidates that I think would do a brilliant job. Whether or not the Exec is looking in that direction I'm not sure.

BluesNews: Jase, will you be continuing on your role as Treasurer or any other role on the executive board level?
Jase: That is yet to be determined. We will have to wait and see how the club AGM pans out but if the club needs me I'll be there.

GQ: Chaps, did you get your suit from Hollywood? Looking very sharp there my friend. But diagonal stripe tie?? Really???

Chaps: OH you don't like the tie? Sorry didn't realize there was going to be fashion critics at a sports conference. Thanks for you time Ladies and Gentlemen. Mr Cain and I will not be answering anymore questions. Thankyou.

PRESS CONFERENCE ANNOUNCED FOR BLUES COACH JASON CAIN

2008-10-23T10:49:00.000-07:00

Blues Coach, Jason Cain and Club President Robert Chapman at this morning's press conference

This just in. As first leaked by Blues Blog gossip column MASSIVES, the club is holding a press conference right now. The conference was apparently planned with the press secretly in a bid to control the mad crush of press and fans from around the world. Blues Blog was not allowed into the conference, as we leaked the secret press conference...

However official BluesNews was allowed in. The conference is being held at the Air Canada Center.

Rumours had been circulating that there were doubts as to Jason Cain continuing on as the Blues Head Coach. Speculation included powers struggles with Mark Dobson, stalled contract negotiations over increased money for Cain's coaching contract, as well as rifts between club Social Director Daniel Zimmerman and Cain.

We at Blues Blog, as are our readers wait with a mixture of excitement (as we do for any Blues news) as well as fear - with the potential sad news that a crowd favourite may be stepping away. Transcript from the press conference will be made public sometime next week. We will publish this as soon as we get our hands on it!