AFL stars return for Joeys premiership reunion

PAST and present St Joseph’s College footballers will come together next week to celebrate the 20th and 10th anniversaries of the school’s 2006 and 2016 Herald Sun Shield premierships.

The reunion will coincide with the current First XVIII side’s clash against St Bernard’s College under lights at Herne Hill Reserve on 3 June as part of the Associated Catholic Colleges Reconciliation Round.

Among those invited are former Geelong champions Cameron Ling and Matthew Scarlett, ex-Collingwood captain Nick Maxwell and current Carlton co-vice-captain Sam Walsh, who are all former students who went on to AFL careers.

Walsh was a member of the 2016 premiership side that defeated St Patrick’s College, alongside Cats defender Jack Henry and St Mary’s stars Brayden Ham, Jack Blood and Patrick Dowling.

First XVIII player Tom Teague said the team was proud to be playing in front of some of the school’s most celebrated football alumni.

“It’s an incredible honour to play in front of these past Joeys legends,” he said. “Many of them have gone on to have extraordinary careers at AFL, VFL and local level.

“Football at St Joeys is huge. It’s a core part of the school’s identity, shaping our culture, our pride and our connection to the community.

“You only need to look at the AFL wall of fame … to see the rich football tradition that has shaped the culture here.

“Whether you are fortunate enough to be able to play in the Joeys colours, or simply be a part of supporting the team, it is a big part of who we are.”

Teammate Van Rahilly said the occasion promised to be a memorable one.

“The game will be full of spectacular moments with high energy, and with a big crowd full of positive supporters, it will fuel the boys to perform and build that Joeys competitiveness to take down a strong opponent in St Bernards,” he said.

Formalities begin at 5pm, with the match kicking off at 5.30pm. Tickets are available via trybooking.com/events/landing/1558683