Travis Boak to wear father’s #5 at Torquay

TRAVIS Boak will fulfil a long-held personal ambition and play in his father’s #5 jumper at Torquay next year.

Today (Thursday, October 23), the Torquay Football Club announced Boak’s homecoming after his storied career with Port Adelaide in the AFL.

A Torquay junior, Boak went on to play 387 games with the Power, earning multiple club best and fairest awards, All-Australian honours and widespread respect across the football community.

Now, after 17 seasons at the elite level, Boak returns to where it all began at Torquay and to local footy in the BFL.

Boak said the decision to return home was both emotional and exciting for him.

“Torquay is where my football journey started, and it’s always been a special place for me and my family.

“To be able to come back, play alongside some great people and hopefully help guide the next generation of Tigers is something I’m really looking forward to.”

Torquay president Cameron Healy said having Boak back in Torquay colours was special not just for the club but for the town.

“The Boak family has played a defining role in shaping who we are. Roger and Chickie Boak’s contribution to the club was immense, their values, generosity and spirit still underpin much of our culture today.

“Roger’s passing left an indelible mark here and it’s fitting that his legacy continues through Travis’s return.

“Like other great Torquay people who’ve come home to give back such as premiership captain Ben Raidme and now current stars in Ben McNamara, James Darke and Matthew Boag. Travis embodies what it means to honour your roots.

“He’s a high-quality person who wants to set an example for the next generation, showing what can be achieved through passion, desire and genuine love for the game.”

The Power took Boak with pick five in the 2006 draft, not long after father Roger died of cancer.

Torquay senior coach Dom Gleeson said Boak’s influence would stretch well beyond the playing field.

“Travis brings a wealth of experience, professionalism and leadership that will be invaluable to our playing group.

“He’s passionate about helping our younger players develop and understands exactly what it means to represent this town and the jumper his father so proudly wore.

“His impact will be felt right across the club and town.”