St Albans youngster grabs state award

A ST ALBANS Football and Netball Club youngster has been rewarded for a huge grab he pulled down during the 2024 Geelong Football League season.

Harry Cockerell was awarded the 2024 AFL Victoria Local Footy Mark of the Year.

The St Albans number 12 rose high over a pack against the Leopold Lions to pull down the award-winning mark.

He jokingly said his team-mates have been very supportive of his win.

“The boys from the club have been getting a bit kick out of it. It’s been pretty funny.

“I think I’d dropped one or two already on the day, and really just wanted to redeem myself.

“Benny Miller kicked a pearler towards me, and it just sat up perfectly. I was lucky enough to hang onto it.

“Pretty sure I shanked the kick straight after. I’ll blame the dead legs.”

Cockerell said he thoroughly enjoyed his first season at St Albans, after crossing over from Birregurra at the end of the 2023 season.

“I absolutely loved it, they are a great group of boys and it was a great introduction to GFL footy.

“I’ve resigned for 2025 and can’t wait to see what’s next.”