■ Local football is so interesting … just when it looked like it was going to be very predictable. In WRFL’s division1, Altona has thrown a spanner in the works and now looms as a real finals chance after seeming to have blown its opportunity. Sunshine is lurking in division1 as well. It’s very easy for teams to get the staggers at this time of the year, so it will be interesting to see what happens. I’d be very surprised if the division2 and division3 ladders change between now and the end of the home-and-away season. Clearances have closed, so what you have now will either get you there or not.
■ Matty Boyd is a star. I remember his first game because I sat next to his very nervous mother, Sharon. What could you expect from a boy off the rookie list from Frankston? Two-hundred-and-fifty AFL games is a vision I expect no one had. There is only one person to acknowledge, and that’s Matt. He’s an exceptional man, always happy to have a chat. He always has time for the fans and the people around the club. He’s a genuine bloke. One thing I know is, he will have loved playing his milestone game with Caleb Daniel playing his first.
■ Many clubs have events coming up that need your support. West Footscray has a past players’ day to celebrate its 1984-85 A2 premiership sides on Saturday, August 15, when the seniors play Yarraville Seddon Eagles. Contact Phil Rigg or Danny Backus for details. As well, Deer Park is holding its past players’ day this Saturday, July 11, when it hosts Sunshine. The reunion will recognise every player from the club since 1926. Entry is free and the club would love to see a big turnout.
■ Williamstown CYMS is also holding a past players’ and officials’ day on July18 when it takes on Therry Penola, the side it beat in the 2014 grand final. Lunch starts at noon, and will be served until 2pm – then it’s down to footy business. Bernie, 0422 700 057.
■ Parkside Football Club has had a very trying year, but I’m pleased to see the club surviving. To that end, a fundraising business lunch will be held at Moonee Valley Racecourse on Friday, July 17, with David King, the former North Melbourne premiership player, as host. Guest speakers will include Sam Kekovich and the irrepressible Russell Gilbert. For more details, call Phil O’Keefe on 0402 007 270 or contact him at phillip@1300ezycall.com.au
