■ I’ve written recently about the struggles of local football clubs trying to survive in the modern world. Most of the blame has been laid at the feet of players and their over-the-top pay demands. Something has to give and it will … and sooner rather than later.
Sponsors now want more from sporting clubs than just a sign on the fence; they want opportunities to network and grow their businesses with new contacts and referrals. You can’t blame them for that, but it makes it harder for clubs to deliver that year after year, especially for clubs not in growth areas.
I don’t favour any club and hope the newest to the oldest survive. But, as happens in the AFL, some may need extra help. So where does that come from? Good question!
■ One club in the FDFL that did go under was Wembley Park. But while it will never grace an oval again, an event is planned to celebrate the club’s history, with well-known western suburbs football identities Brendan Curry and Phil O’Keefe behind a reunion for former players and officials. The venue is the popular Mona Castle Hotel in Seddon on Friday, April 1, from 2pm to whenever.
The Wombats were formed in the early 1980s from the Brooklyn and Kingsville clubs and lost a couple of 2A grand finals to Spotswood and Albion. Club icon Lawrie ‘Sonny’ Maher will be in attendance and other stalwarts such as Ray ‘Spewy’ Donchi, Alan ‘Tooty’ Revell, Peter ‘Boxhead’ Dern, Peter ‘Crackers’ Barlow, Brendan ‘Buddha’ Caulfield, Neil ‘Ouzo’ Aird, Kevin ‘Pussy’ Bradshaw and Paul ‘Loopy’ Lowden are also expected to attend. For more details contact Brendan Curry on 0409 857 308 or Phil O’Keefe on 0402 007 270.
■ Werribee Football Club has announced Michael Sodomaco as its captain for the 2016 season, with Ben Speight and Scott Sherlock as vice-captains and Matt Hanson and Jake Sharp as deputies. The club also has a new president, Martin Carter, and two new board members, Lesley Shaw and Jamie Taylor. Deryn Mobbs has stepped down for personal reasons. Great, too, to see Williamstown legend Terry Wheeler elected to the board of the Seagulls.
‘Wheels’ is one of the most inspiring people I’ve ever met and his passion for football is undeniable. But his greatest attributes are his people skills and his vision.
Any news, let me know on email kevin@howdypartnersmedia.com.au. Follow me on Twitter @KevinHillier, plus check out the Howdy Partners Media website as well.
