September 18, 2014: The luck of the Irish...

Despite finishing fourth, and being booted from the competition before the final extravaganza, Irish ruckman Padraig Lucey became the first player from Foxtel's reality TV series The Recruit to find his way on to an AFL list.

While the final three contestants were preparing to face their future at the live finale, Lucey was strutting around Geelong in his newly acquired Cat's jumper, safe in the knowledge that he had already claimed the prize that those who had outlasted him were still competing for. When Johann Wagner was confirmed as the first 'official' winner of the show, only Port Adelaide, Gold Coast and GWS offered themselves as potential homes. The lifelong Power supporter chose Alberton, and will join Lucey in the AFL next season.

The show was a ratings success, and an enjoyable watch. However, given that the winners of similar programs in cricket and soccer produced winners who never played first grade for their clubs, it will be very interesting to chart the success of Lucey and Wagner into the future.

In the news...
It's been a big 24 hours for former Crow Simon Goodwin. After being linked to the vacancy created by the hasty eviction of Brenton Sanderson at Adelaide, he has signed on as Paul Roos' successor at Melbourne. The Swans have confirmed that they will release assistant Stuart Dew should he be offered the top job in Adelaide.

Also in Sydney, Nick Malceski is expected to play in the preliminary final, despite suffering a hamstring injury two weeks ago.

GWS Ruckman Jonathon Giles is seeking a trade after a lack of opportunities at the Giants. The 26 year old apparently wants to return to South Australia.