Episode 23 - Ian's Newcastle trip; Paul's map of Australian soccer cultural map

Download and listen to episode 23 here.

Paul begins the show by reminiscing about how good the NSL's disregard for punctual kickoff times.

We note that Mark Boric has been uploading match programs, including material provided by Graeme McGinty. Also credit to George Cotsanis for uploading some interesting videos, much of which would not have been seen in decades... and the discussion goes back to reminiscing. Even for a history show, that's a lot reminiscing.

And then Ian begins talking about his trip to Newcastle. First, there was the launch for John Maynard's revised Aboriginal Soccer Tribe.. but a lot of people who should have been there weren't.  Then Ian got chauffeured up to Newcastle from Sydney by Todd Blackwell. And then Ian spent the weekend being driven around everywhere by David McGaw. The overwhelming effect was how deep soccer's roots were in Newcastle.

Then Ian went to the Northern New South Wales grand final, and noted the differences between the styles in soccer support between Newcastle and Melbourne... a discussion about the difference between interest and intensity... and how much passion is too much. (For the blog by South Hobart blogger Richard Rants, see this link) And what do grand finals mean and what are they worth compared to finishing on top of the table?

The next day Ian went to the library, but apparently libraries are boring now according to Ian. More fun was catching up with Newcastle soccer historians and historian adjacent people... and more musings on belonging, and the material and cultural conditions which can create that relaxed sense of belonging.

Then Ian talks about meeting Bob Heppelwhite, a West Wallsend stalwart, who regaled Ian with a tale about playing against Reg Date, and Ian missing the chance to tap in old stories of Australian soccer.

After the break is a big announcement from David Eland, CEO of Northern NSW Football, and Greg Groombridge - an offer of a cash reward for anyone who can help find the whereabouts of the Merewether Advance roll of honour.

Then 100 Years Ago Today with the thrilling conclusion to the 1919 Victorian league season.

And finally, the birth of Paul's Australian cultural map project.