WITH almost one-third of the season completed it is hard to go anywhere without someone asking which Victorian team will stake a claim in September.

Interstate dominance has created some intimidation in the minds of most local teams. There has been much spoken about why a Victorian team cannot compete on an equal footing with interstate teams and enough examples of them being "disadvantaged". There is a hint of resignation among Victorian teams that results in them aiming to be the best Victorian team rather than reducing the perceived gulf that exists before they can compete for the premiership.

To be the best in the business you must be very good in the following at the very least:

CONSISTENCY

There are many examples of a lack of consistency with a team's effort. The games that should be won need to be won. They cannot be decided by a lack of competitiveness or effort. Geelong, St Kilda and Western Bulldogs have had topsy-turvy starts to the season. The Kangaroos win the consistency-of-effort award. Dean Laidley has done an outstanding job in this area. They come to play and give everything — nothing is left in the tank. Around the mark are Collingwood and Hawthorn, who give themselves every chance to win with their effort. Collingwood especially has impressed beyond most people's expectations, however someone forgot to tell the players. Pies coach Mick Malthouse loves the underdog competitive environment and his team excels in it.

PREPARATION

Collingwood and the Kangaroos again are leading contenders in this area with a special mention to the Hawks. While it is difficult to evaluate this factor so early in the season it is the results so far that provide the necessary momentum for the remainder of the season. Their ability to "gut-run" offensively and defensively is testimony to their gruelling preparations. It is amazing how mentally tough you can be when you are rock-hard fit and ready to go. Similarly you look for excuses and compound if you have not had a strong preparation. The Saints' pre-season in 2004 was a massive factor in their early outstanding form but the '06 pre-season didn't allow the side to get out of the blocks.

PROFESSIONALISM

You cannot afford to have off-field indiscretions although West Coast obviously is an exception. You need solidarity and cohesion from all parts of the club — the "pro" approach to your work. You must be considered as a leader in all aspects, from coaching right through to player perceptions. You would want other clubs to emulate your processes. As much as I hate to admit it, Collingwood seems to be the best in this area. Apart from the odd player indiscretions you have to admire the way Eddie McGuire defends his club and his people. They are very innovative and have the facilities and resources to contend with interstate clubs.

LEADERSHIP

Much discussed but not much understood. Geelong has been exposed for its lack of it. When the Cats get it right — look out! The difference between their best and their worst is too significant and falls directly under the leadership banner. Melbourne's leaders seem unsure — not decisive — and their influence tends to vacillate depending on performance. The Western Bulldogs seem to consider it an afterthought. There is no real focus or plan that is transparent and if it's not obvious it's probably not happening. I like the young, aggressive and assertive nature coming through at Hawthorn. Its young leaders mean business and seem to take it personally if their team isn't performing. I like that in a man. You need to take responsibility and influence others with your actions. As far as the Kangas go, well I don't think the players let Laidley pick anyone they don't want to play with. They seem very united at the moment and have been galvanised by the early season discussion on where they should live. Their response is telling us all to mind our own business and they will decide their destiny. There is much to like about the statement they are making and, with Carlton and Melbourne in the next two weeks, they have an opportunity to consolidate.

BRAND

You must play a game that will win a premiership. You cannot play a style to survive. Simply it will involve the following:

1. A hard, relentless approach to the ball and the man.

2. Correct balance between quick, inside and direct ball movement and appropriate "tempo" style.

3. Disciplined approach to accountability.

4. Heavy team focus and support to each other.

5. Superior strategy, tactics and match-ups.

The interstate teams have these basic fundamentals. I would suggest that West Coast, Sydney, Port Adelaide, Adelaide and Brisbane have all excelled in these five points in recent years. I am not certain any Victorian team could lay claim to that consistently. Interestingly, as Collingwood and the Kangaroos have shown recently, it does not come down to personnel.

While these fundamentals will not guarantee success, they will give teams a hell of a better chance to compete and perform to their ability on a consistent basis.

Victorian clubs need to revitalise their thinking. I don't believe that their actions so far this season reflect a real purpose to challenge for the title of best team in the country. Sadly, being the best in Victoria may only get you to seventh.
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