Great Decisions in HistoryAlthough not directly comparable to the signing of the Magna Carta, America's Declaration of Independence or Limahl's stand-alone record contract after leaving kajagoogoo, this recent signing of contracts down at MC Labour Park remain an impressive oasis in the recent history of the Carlton Football Club. After a week of shadow boxing and gesticulating that would make Anthony Mundine blush, the signings of Thornton, Russell, Blackwell and Wiggins have reminded us of other great decisions in Carlton's proud history.The appointment of Jack WorrallMake no bones about it - Carlton struggled in our early years in the VFL. Owing bountiful thanks to St Kilda who would save us from 3 wooden spoons in each of our first 3 seasons - the Blues were far from the powerhouse we would become. In 1902 a former Fitzroy player and test cricketer, Jack Worrall, was appointed Carlton Secretary and also as the first Coach of the Club, and indeed the first Coach in the AFL. His methods included training for discipline, teamwork and dedication (he believed football and beer were a bad mix) and further improvement was made in 1903 with the club winning 11 of its 17 games. Ultimately the 1906 - 1907 - 1908 Premierships were his, and of course, ours.The recruitment of Ronald Dale BarassiTorn by disputes and divided loyalties in 1965, Carlton had made the finals only five times since our last Premiership in 1947. It was time for swift and drastic action. A reform group of committeemen and influential supporters, headed by club dentist George Harris and former star back pocket Laurie Kerr swept to power in an election landslide on December 7, 1965. Harris became the new President. He immediately declared the position of senior coach vacant, and called for nominations. More than twenty hopefuls replied, including the incumbent, Ken Hands. But none were interviewed - because Harris had heard a whisper that Barassi was interested in spreading his wings into coaching. Harris contacted Barassi and arranged a meeting. After long discussions, Ron expressed interest and promised a quick answer. The following morning he called back, saying; "I'm sorry. I've changed my mind. I can't leave Melbourne." Harris however refused the rebuff. At seven o'clock the next morning he was back on the phone to Barassi. It took three hours more of earnest discussion, but when Harris did eventually put the phone down, Barassi was the new Captain-coach of Carlton. And what followed? The 1968 Premiership!Luring the BuzzDespite signing a ‘Form Four’ with North, and barracking for them his whole life (even though his Dad had played with Carlton), Peter ‘the Buzz’ Bosustow found his way to Carlton in 1981 when he hitched a lift with Kenny Hunter. In a brief 3-year spell in the VFL, the Buzz kicked 146 goals and in his debut year, won the goalkicking, the Best & Fairest and a Premiership. His electrifying style of play also saw him win the Mark of the Year with the pearler used in our logo. Contrary to public belief, the Buzz did not get his nickname from the Buzz, in fact, the Buzz got our nickname from the Buzz.Phone calls to Stephen KernahanThe Blues had been tracking Sticks since 1979 when as an 16 year old he was already looming as a dominant player and hairstyle of the future. Despite many visits, contract offers and gifts, Sticks had shown no sign of budging and drastic action was needed. Someone, somewhere came up with the pivotal step - get Bruce Doull to call him up. The legendary defender famous for not saying much at all was then entrusted with the task of convincing the up & comer to come to Carlton. When Doull speaks, people listen - if only to hear his actual voice - and Sticks found his way to Carlton for 1986. One can only wonder what was said during that phone call...5 ‘John Hancock's’ on 5 different contracts from favoured sons has turned around an apparent troubling week in the press into a confirmation of 'Plan 2010' - the unofficial Club strategy as expertly written by the Buzz to return the Blues to premiership glory. 4 youngsters all signing up, including 2 who were tempted by the poisoned apples of the devil but returned to the fold, plus the return of the prodigal sons in Brett Ratten and Craig Bradley may make last week one of further Great Decisions in History.The Buzz would like to thank the contributors to the Blueseum for some of the content of this article.