I've been holding off on commenting on the Wiz retiring event. Initially I felt shocked, sad then angry. I have read the press releases and watched some of the TV reports regarding this.

Firstly let me say that I will miss watching the Wiz play and I am still sad he has retired. Jeff, all the best of luck for the future and thank you for the years you gave us. You're a champ.

Now that I've somewhat got used to the idea that the Wiz won't be there anymore, I find myself faced with another disturbing issue. That is the reaction of the supporters, fans and members to this. Please, let me try to explain.

What I'm getting from all these posts are that everyone is angry:
i. that the Wiz hasn't been offered a contract;
ii. because the FFC, particularly Harvs and Rosich, have not explained the decision to us;
iii. that Jeff hasn't had the send off he deserves;
iv. that Freo has lost an icon.

This is resulting in people saying:
i. the FFC has sold it's soul;
ii. Harvs has lost their respect;
iii. the FFC is trying to appease the media.

Well, let me tell you there's a lot of déjà vu here. Let's call it Clive.
I can remember all this hysteria pouring out when the Crazy Horse was put out to pasture.
The sad fact is that teams change, players move on, clubs change direction.

Hell, for years people posting on this board have called for strong leadership. It seems to me that is exactly what we now have. We will know in a very short time whether this new leadership has the right stuff or not. Let's hold back judgment till then.

Am I sad the Wiz retired? Yes.

Was I privy to the meeting between the Wiz and the club? No.

Could this have been handled better? Possibly. Freo have poorly managed quite a few things in the past (Drum's dismissal for one).

Do I think they did this to appease the media? Sheit No! I just can't see Harvs kowtowing to the media.

Does the club have to explain in detail their decisions? No. Why should they make all their plans public?

Do I think Freo will have another freakish icon? Hell Yes! We've got Sandi, the biggest bloke to pull on studded boots. We've got Palmer, who's had an unbelievable debut season. There's Chopper, who knows what he can be and do. And let's not forget the Genius, silkier skills have never been seen. In a few weeks we have the draft. Once again this draft has been touted as the best ever.

Am I turning my back on the FFC? Never.

Yes I am still sad the Wiz has retired but for good or bad, better or worse, change happens. It happens all the time. Every day in fact.

Ok, now you can release the hounds.

Time for a cuppa I think.