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Firstly, I am not sure if I have mentioned this before but I was talking about it again with a mate on the weekend. I had an idea for a regular allstar match because it seems that state of origin seems too difficult to get a look in - State of Origin is a preferred option tho.
I was thinking to have it on the Wednesday night before the GF at the telstra dome and it would be a good way to send off retiring stars and showcase the talents of the young guys.
Heres how it would work:
Teams
Central West (WA, SA & ****) vs East Coast (Vic, Tas, ACT, NSW & Qld). Central West would have a much smaller pool of players but they all play AFL whereas Qld, NSW and ACT are predominantly rugby states. With 2 states and a territory Central West should still be able to field 22 quality players. Maybe we could pinch Qld somehow but the names would have to change.
The same rules would apply but as it is post season (for most) and a bit of a fun match, the quarters may be shortened to 20 minutes and they could have extras on the bench if they want.
The biggest argument would be that it may be hard to attract players but I am sure that the rising stars and the outgoing stars would love a good hit out in grand final week. There wouldn't be the same passion as state of origin but I am pretty sure that WA, SA and **** would love to stick it up the Vics and Co.
The AFL could dangle a best player medal with a cash prize for the individual or his team as a bit of a carrot. They could also put the player payments to a charity or something.
As for the squads, anyone with a rising star nominations is an automatic selection. The losing teams in the prelims are on a voluntary basis but all other players selected are expected to play. Obviously the ones that are off to surgery are exempt also.
Another alternative would be to have Old vs New. This would still showcase the new stars and give the veterans and retiring players a send off. This would be more of a novelty match but would be a bit of fun in grand final week.
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