Closing the books (II)

The sycophancy story of 2010 — at least until the game came crashing to a spectacular end — was the rise and rise of Jerome Kennedy.

Sure, Susan Sullivan started the year strong, taking two monthly titles in a row to start the year. And in March, April, and June, Tom Hedderson showed some promise.

But the rest of the year, from his tie in March to the five consecutive titles between July and November, Jerome was the man to beat. And no one did.


Where once Dansportation and Works was the preferred Ministry of Toadies, under Jerome, Health muscled in and muscled the rest out.

As with Trevor Taylor's career-finishing tally last year, with nearly 30% of the goals standing in his name, Jerome Kennedy, heir apparent, was responsible for a similar ratio of WilliamsGovernmentiness between January and that sad, sad, November day when it all came tumbling down.

And as with 2009, 2010 saw some interesting episodes of sycophancy off the playing field. Whether it be a remarkably prescient press release in July, the official Williams Government paddywagon, the Western Star's remarkable editorial, or the contorted logic used to justify Our Dear Christmas Card, the suckuppiness reached a crescendo that will never again be matched.

One can only hope.

Perhaps next year Jerome will be the object of such affection. Can we look forward to five months of "Kennedy Government"? Do we dare?

Your Sycophant of the Year for 2010, and for all time or at least for now — whichever comes first — Jerome Kennedy. Congratulations! And best wishes!