🎙️ Jeff & Zac Sport Show

Rebuilds and Resilience – Bassett’s West Adelaide Reset & Motley’s Such Is Life

Broadcast live from the studios of Podcast City Business & Lifestyle Network, powered by GameReady Performance, Jeff kicked off the first Saturday morning show of 2026 with a big AFL preview, SANFL insight, and two powerful in-studio interviews blending football analysis with inspiration.

With Zac on the sick list, Jeff was joined by Joey from Gauchos Restaurant as they unpacked the major talking points heading into the new season.

🏉 AFL 2026 – Where Do the Crows Really Sit?

The show opened with Adelaide’s pre-season hit-out and the big question: are the Crows ready to push into the Top Five?

The forward line looks strong. Riley Thilthorpe continues to grow as a key target, Taylor Walker’s leadership remains vital, and young ruckman Lachlan McAndrew (210cm) impressed with his presence and work rate. A dual-ruck combination with Riley O’Brien could become a real weapon.

But the midfield remains the big question.

Can Adelaide find more speed and physical presence at the contest? Will Izak Rankine spend more time in the middle? And who becomes the player that takes the next leap?

The discussion also touched on rising soft tissue injuries across the league and whether modern pre-season demands are playing a role.

⚡ Port Adelaide – A New Regime Begins

Port Adelaide enters 2026 with major change across its football department.

Key talking points included:

• Defensive concerns after finishing 15th last season
• Forward line consistency
• Cultural reset across the club
• How long fans should allow for the new system to take shape

Change brings uncertainty, but also opportunity. The big question: can the group fully buy in and execute the new direction?

🔥 State of Origin – Is There a Place for It?

The show also debated the return of State of Origin football.

With strong crowd numbers and high intensity, it delivered excitement. Financial incentives and player motivation were discussed, along with whether the concept needs reinvention to truly regain its cultural significance.

Marketing opportunity — or unfinished business?

🎤 Special Guest – Nathan Bassett (West Adelaide Coach)

Nathan Bassett joined the studio to discuss his return from AFL assistant coaching back to senior SANFL coaching with West Adelaide.

After more than a decade in AFL systems at Essendon, Port Adelaide and Melbourne, Bassett spoke about:

• The realities of AFL pressure
• Why West Adelaide was the right opportunity
• Building sustainability over chasing quick fixes
• Strengthening local pathways
• Improving high-performance systems to reduce injuries
• Creating long-term cultural stability

His message was clear: improvement must come before wins, and sustainable growth is the real success.

He also shared insight into 2026 SANFL rule changes, including ruck nominations and the removal of centre bounces.

📘 Special Feature – Peter Motley: Such Is Life

The show then shifted from rebuilding clubs to rebuilding life.

Sturt and Carlton great Peter Motley joined the studio with author Paul Rouse to discuss the release of his book, Such Is Life – My Story.

The book covers:

• His SANFL career with Sturt
• His AFL journey with Carlton
• Playing in the 1986 Grand Final
• The car accident that ended his career at just 22
• His resilience, humour and outlook on life

Peter’s story isn’t about what was lost — it’s about what was built afterwards.

Proceeds from the book support the Clown Doctors (Humour Foundation), bringing laughter and light into hospitals across Australia.

It was a powerful, uplifting segment and a reminder that football is bigger than the game itself.

Jeff & Zac Sport Show – live every Saturday at 9am.

More sport. More insight. More stories that matter.

Jeff and Zac kick off the show with a strong focus on cricket, celebrating packed crowds and outstanding performances at the Adelaide Test.

Travis Head’s dominance at his home ground and Alex Carey’s growing influence are highlighted as South Australian sport continues to thrive despite extreme heat and a busy sporting calendar.

The conversation then turns to SANFL, with Paul Thomas, coach of Central Districts, sharing insights into player development, recruiting, and the challenge of closing the gap on competition benchmarks like Sturt and Glenelg. Paul discusses the importance of junior pathways, organic growth, and staying competitive in a league heavily influenced by AFL-listed talent.

Next, Sam Jacobs, coach of Woodville-West Torrens, joins the show to reflect on a season disrupted by injuries. Sam speaks candidly about leadership, resilience, player retention, and the lessons learned from adversity. He also outlines how opportunity emerged for younger players and why the Eagles are well-positioned heading into 2026.

The final segment features an in-studio conversation with Angelo Picca, who brings a global football lens shaped by his experience with Adelaide United and European football. Angelo offers forthright views on the A-League’s struggles, declining crowds, governance challenges, and the urgent need for stronger community engagement and strategic leadership to revitalise the competition.

Jeff and Zac open Episode 6 with a deep dive into a premiership-winning season, joined by coach Marty Mattner, who reflects on a remarkable year that saw his side lose just one game. Marty speaks candidly about shifting the club’s offensive mindset, managing expectations, developing resilience, and why process and culture matter more than win–loss records. He also shares his thoughts on SANFL rule changes, pre-season planning, and the challenge of being the hunted in 2026.

The focus then shifts off the field with Alison Surjan, President of the West Adelaide Football Club. Alison provides a powerful insight into governance, culture change, and bold leadership, explaining how stability, bravery, and long-term vision are reshaping the club. She discusses the importance of female participation, facility redevelopment, improved infrastructure, and how attracting high-quality people on and off the field is transforming West Adelaide’s future.

Next, Michael Petrillo, Football Manager at Melbourne City, joins the show following the club’s A-League premiership success. Michael explains why this championship was particularly satisfying, highlighting the impact of youth development, academy investment, and mental resilience. He also addresses injury challenges, player workloads, and the pride of seeing academy graduates thrive on both domestic and international stages.

The episode wraps with a spotlight on the next generation as Vinko Stanišić shares his journey from school football to signing a professional scholarship with Adelaide United. Jeff and Zac also round out the show with fast-paced commentary on cricket, basketball, and the A-League, delivering another comprehensive Saturday morning sports fix.

Jeff and Zac return with a huge Saturday morning edition of the Jeff & Zac Sports Show, broadcasting live from Podcast City Radio Business & Lifestyle Network Studio.

They’re joined by special guest Chris Burgess, whose football journey spans West Adelaide, the Gold Coast Suns, and the Adelaide Crows. Chris reflects on his early days at Westies, the jump to AFL intensity, the mentors who shaped him, and what life was really like at the Suns before the club’s recent rise under coach Damien Hardwick.

Chris also opens up about the challenges of breaking into Adelaide’s key forward setup, competing with the likes of Taylor Walker, Phil Thorpe and Fogarty. He speaks candidly about missing opportunities, conversations with Matthew Nicks, the reality of being delisted, and the emotional decision to step back from SANFL football. In a heartfelt moment, he reveals why he’s returning to country footy in the Yorke Peninsula — to reconnect with the joy of the game and finally play alongside one of his best mates.

Later in the episode, the boys speak with James Fantasia, one of South Australia’s most respected football leaders. James shares what he’s been up to since stepping away from Norwood, his thoughts on the Redlegs’ 2025 season, and why the club is perfectly positioned for a big year in 2026. He gives a detailed breakdown of new recruits, coaching changes, and standout young players like Toby Callow who are set to shine.

Jeff and Zac close the show with updates on the Matildas, Sam Kerr’s fitness concerns, Adelaide United’s coaching changes, the NBL’s Adelaide 36ers' impressive resurgence, and the latest cricket news, including future Test cricket fixtures at Adelaide Oval.

The Jeff & Zac Sport Show brings a high-energy deep dive into everything happening in South Australian sport. Jeff and Zac open with Adelaide United’s thrilling 4–1 win over Melbourne City, breaking down key performers, tactical shifts, and what the result means for the Reds’ season going forward. With four different goal scorers and a defensive masterclass despite limited possession, the performance sparks plenty of optimism among fans.

The boys also dissect a big week in SANFL, with West Adelaide undergoing major redevelopment both on and off the field. Special guest Jonti Schback joins the show to discuss the club’s preseason standards under new coach Nathan Bassett, the rise of emerging young players, and the cultural shift being built around accountability, development, and long-term success. He talks openly about injuries, personal goals, and the hunger within Westies to climb the ladder in 2026.

The second guest of the morning, Joe Puntureri from Gaucho’s, delivers a passionate breakdown of the Adelaide 36ers’ dramatic turnaround, highlighting big names like Bryce Cotton, Humphries, and DJ Cameron. Joe also speaks candidly about the NBL’s growing appeal, rising attendance, team culture, and the importance of stable ownership in reviving the club’s fortunes.

Jeff and Zac finish the episode with a full cricket analysis, recapping an extraordinary day in the Australia vs England Test match — including 19 wickets falling, standout bowling performances, and the challenges facing both sides. As always, the episode wraps with humour, insight, and the trademark passion that makes this South Australia’s favourite weekly sports show.

Credits

Host: Jeff Pangrazio & Zac Scott

Producer: Ron Fiedler & Podcast City Business & Lifestyle Network

In this action-packed episode of the Jeff & Zac Sports Show, the boys return after a short break — and they’re broadcasting live from Gauchos Restaurant, home of the best steaks in Adelaide. With guest Joey from Gauchos joining the panel, the show kicks off with a full breakdown of the AFL Grand Final. Brisbane’s commanding second half, the Lockie Neale substitution masterstroke, and Geelong’s inability to fire in September take centre stage as the panel pull apart every big moment.

The conversation quickly moves into club-by-club analysis, starting with questions around Geelong’s finals identity and the future of coach Chris Scott. With Brisbane now the most successful club of the century, Jeff, Zac and Joey explore what makes the Lions unstoppable — from list management to coaching stability, player development, and their new generation of talent.

Trade Week gets the full treatment as well, including the Christian Petracca to Gold Coast saga, Adelaide’s midfield puzzle, Port Adelaide’s rebuild under Josh Carr, and Clayton Oliver’s dramatic departure to GWS. The boys don’t hold back as they discuss big personalities, big clubs, and even bigger question marks heading into 2026.

Finally, the episode wraps up with rookie draft predictions, coaching movements, club culture challenges, and a look ahead to what’s next for Collingwood, Melbourne, Hawthorn, Essendon, Port Adelaide and more. It’s fast, it’s fun, it’s opinionated — everything footy fans love from Jeff and Zac.

Credits

Host: Jeff Pangrazio & Zac Scott

Producer: Ron Fiedler & Podcast City Business & Lifestyle Network

In this engaging and lively episode of the Jeff & Zac Sport Show on Podcast City Radio and Business Lifestyle Network, hosts Jeff and Zac, alongside guest Joe from Gaucho's Restaurant, dive into the excitement surrounding Grand Final Day.

The show gets underway by setting the stage for an action-packed episode, touching upon key events in the Australian Football League (AFL) such as the Brownlow Medal and performances of various teams, primarily focusing on the narratives leading into the finals.

The discussion shifts to the controversial Brownlow Medal winner, Matty Rowe, sparking a deep debate over the voting process used by the AFL. Joey and Zac critically analyse Rowe's performances versus those of other standout players, questioning whether umpire perceptions inadequately inform the voting system.

They highlight players like Nick Dacos and Bailey Smith, emphasising that recent voting behaviour seems to favour midfielders with a historical bias against non-midfielders.

The hosts suggest the need for a re-evaluation of the voting mechanics, particularly given the rapid evolution of the game due to advancements in technology.

As the conversation progresses, the team transitions to analysing the performances of Adelaide and Port Adelaide throughout the season. Joey discusses his observations regarding Adelaide's surprising rise to minor premiers from a previous 15th-place finish, while also reflecting upon their disappointing finals performances.

The hosts examine potential solutions for Adelaide, including seeking new midfielder talent and addressing structural gaps in their game.

Zac contributes by discussing the need for young players to step up and the importance of training and preparation to ensure competitive performances in the next season.

The episode also turns to Port Adelaide and their transitional phase following Ken Hinkley's departure. Joey expresses his optimism regarding Josh Carr's new leadership as head coach, praising the thorough initiative surrounding team recruitment he has undertaken.

As they delve deeper into Port Adelaide's future, the conversation touches on the significance of standout players such as Zach Butters and the importance of maintaining strong team chemistry.

The show then transitions to a broad examination of the broader AFL competition, assessing which teams are poised to improve and what factors might propel them upward. The hosts articulate a growing respect for the Gold Coast Suns under new coach Damien Hardwick, believing they are set for substantial improvements in the coming season.

After discussing the struggles of Fremantle and the Western Bulldogs, they ponder on the possibilities of GWS's potential rise and other teams in the bottom half of the ladder looking to shake things up.

As the episode nears its climax, the hosts dive into the anticipated grand final matchup between Geelong and Brisbane.

They offer in-depth commentary on players to watch, strategic approaches expected from both sides, and the importance of midfield battles. The conversation highlights Geelong's solid and experienced lineup and Brisbane's youthful excitement, showcasing how tactical decisions encompassing player matchups could sway the game.

The episode wraps up with the hosts providing their predictions for the grand final and the Norm Smith Medal, acknowledging that both teams have the potential to swing the game's momentum in their favour. With a blend of humour, insights, and sharp analysis, the hosts encapsulate the essence of AFL culture while eagerly anticipating the thrilling conclusion to the season that Grand Final Day represents.

The camaraderie and spirited discussion between the hosts is evident, making for an enjoyable listen as they reminisce about the year's sporting highlights while looking ahead toward the future of the AFL.

Credits

Host: Jeff Pangrazio & Zac Scott

Producer: Ron Fiedler & Podcast City Business & Lifestyle Network