Sticks was on radio this week and shared something that now resonates with me deeply.

He claimed that the Carlton was no longer a club that was respected by the football world. The clubs focus over the next 5 years is all about getting that back.

Immediately his comments didn't mean much to me. For the majority of my 49 years the Blues have been more than respected - we have been successful, feared, perhaps envied. I also spend time in these forums and follow all that is Blue week in and week out.

I was listening to Sticks with rose colored glasses. Yes, Sticks is right. We are no longer respected. Every Football commentator that hasn't picked us in the to finish in the 8 has perspective.

It has been 16 years since we won a flag. 3 wooden spoons in the last 10 years and 35,000 members year to date vs Collingwood at 62,000.

Tonight should be the beginning of getting back that respect and followed every moment over the next 22 rounds of football. By the end of 2011, we may not be in the top 4, but sure as hell the football world should be singing a much much different tune.

Lets get behind the club tonight, be humble and recognise that we are beginning again. Beginning to win back that respect.

p.s for all of his downsides.....well spoken Sticks!

Go Blues

You're right LB - this has been the most disappointing part of the last 10 years the loss of respect.

Our playing group could do worse than to immerse themselves in the 30th Anniverary Back to Back Premiership Dinner and mix with the players back in 1981/1982 some of whom became Triple Premiership Players - and get a feel for what it takes and what is needed.

To take the field knowing that if they played to their best (or at least 15 minutes of their best in the third quarter ) that no team could stand in their way.

Its time for this group to stand up and command the respect that this once proud club stood for.

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"Hence you will not say that Greeks fight like heroes but that heroes fight like Greeks"?

Winston Churchill

Great post LB.

No passengers.

No fear.

Uncompromising footy.

The beginning of an era.

Finals.

Flags.

I think that spells Carlton if read backwards.

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Everyone looks good in Navy Blue