Most MAF WA Clubs were able to recruit new players in 2007 but overall numbers increased only marginally due to the number of players that have given the game away for various reasons. One major factor for this is the continuing employment boom that has reduced the opportunity for players to be available on weekends particularly on a regular basis.

Our biggest challenge throughout the state is to encourage the 35 year olds to rekindle their passion and join our clubs. It only takes a few new faces at this level each year to keep the balance of our various age groups under control thus reducing the pressure on Masters and Seniors to play outside their group. Our strength and stability will always be with the 35-40 year old players.

Congratulations to Mark Smith (Wembley), Ray Eskett (Albany) and Neville Clarke (Victoria Park) who were awarded Life Membership of MAF WA at the 2006 AGM. These three join our other inductees to whom we all owe a great deal of thanks. Without the hard work of these people, Masters footy would never have reached the dominant position it has today.

To our Patrons Mike Adams and Tim Gossage we extend our thanks and gratitude for your continued efforts.

One of the highlights of 2007 was the participation in the annual country carnival by the Newman Vets. Players and officials from this club travelled all the way from the Pilbara Region in the northern part of our vast State. The team acquitted itself quite well against its more experienced country cousins. We trust that we will continue to see more of this team in the future and thank the people responsible for establishing Masters footy in the Region.

The success of the country carnival continued in 2007 and we thank the organisers for the energy and effort in making this happen.

A very special thanks to the 2007 Board of Management - Michael Hamling (Vice President), Alex Nie (Treasurer), Tom Booton, Larry Gleeson, Gary Browne, Tony Collins, Bob Apps, (Directors), Brian Borlini (Umpires' Coach) and Harold Harper (General Manager). All gave their time and energy to ensure our season was well-planned and well run.

The financial position of MAF WA was further strengthened in 2007 thanks to the continued support of the WAFC through its annual grant to the Affiliates of the WA Community Football Council. This grant enables our Association to plan its future with confidence and stability. Thanks also to our Treasurer, Alex Nie, for keeping a vigilant eye on our spending.


NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Congratulations and thanks to the National Executive and the organisers of the 2007 Sydney National Carnival for putting on a great show. Their efforts and energy ensured the continued growth and success of this great annual event.

One area that continues to flourish in WA is the number of players that take part in the Carnivals. A contingent of 165 players, families and supporters travelled to Sydney in 2007. A pleasing aspect of this years travelling party was the large number of country players who attended, principally from the South West Clubs.

From the feedback received, all of the travellers had a great time and are looking forward to the 2008 Darwin carnival. Many of them have already booked their spot.

Many thanks to all players for the way they went about playing our great game. Thanks also to the coaches, trainers, team managers and support staff for ensuring that the high standard of organisation that WA prides itself on continues to be the benchmark at MAF carnivals.

Congratulations to the Masters (Division 2) and Seniors (Division 1) for their premiership victories. These victories continue the run of success we have enjoyed at recent carnivals.

Congratulations also to all of our ALL-AUSTRALIAN representatives on an honour richly deserved.

To our umpires that officiated at the carnival we say, "well done" in carrying out a job that contributes so much to the overall success of the carnival.

Thanks also to our many supporters, particularly the "Western Wags" who were there in numbers to "scream for our teams".

The pre-carnival State Jumper Presentation function was once again a highly successful event partly due to the financial support received from our many sponsors. We are indeed grateful to these sponsors for this support as it enables us to put on a very enjoyable night.

In closing I would like to once again thank all our players, club officials, coaches, support staff and supporters for continuing to help make Masters Football the great game that it is and the enjoyment it brings to all of us "footy die-hards" in WA.


GARRY (ROSCO) ROSS

President.