It was a journey that began over three years ago, but has no doubt been well worth the wait as the first episode of the much-anticipated Championship Chronicles series was released this week.
Documenting the Jets historic 2007/08 Hyundai A-League campaign, the Chronicles delve into the stories behind the most successful season in the Newcastle Jets history, which culminated in their crowning glory – a Grand Final win against rivals the Central Coast Mariners.
The series consists of nine episodes, starting in the pre-season and finishing with Grand Final glory. The first episode was released on November 22, and each new episode will be released in two-week increments thereafter.
Series host and Newcastle Jets statistician, Dave Keating has put hundreds of hours into the project and says he is looking forward to the release of the Championship Chronicles, while also a little apprehensive.
“There is certainly excitement there, but there is also nervousness as well,” Keating said.
“When you have worked on something for so long, you want to share it with everyone and you want it to be well received.”
Throughout the production process, Keating interviewed 24 people for the series, ranging from players, including Joel Griffiths and Ante Covic, all the way through to administrators, and local media.
He says it is the untold stories of the season which he aimed to uncover.
“There is a lot of behind the scenes stories for the fans, and those are the ones I wanted to dig out in the interviews,” Keating added.
Keating said that providing the fans with a deeper understanding of what made the side tick during the championship winning campaign was important.
“Things that people haven’t heard before, things that will make people laugh.
“There are actually some emotional stories as well, that will bring out a side of player’s that people didn’t see.”
Keating also acknowledged the support of his ‘Jetstream’ colleagues Grant Furner, Gavin Austin and Michael Body; as well as everyone who gave up their time to take part in the series.
To access the Championship Chronicles, click here, head to www.newcastlefootball.net or via any podcast app by searching “The Jetstream”.
