‘It’s a massive honour’: Interleague medal recognition for O’Connell

The Bendigo Football Netball League will celebrate one of its greats this weekend with the introduction of the Robert O’Connell Medal, to be awarded to the best on ground in Sunday’s under-19 interleague match against the Victorian Amateur Football Association.

O’Connell, a BFNL Hall of Famer, played more than 250 games with Golden Square and Eaglehawk during the 1970s and 80s. His decorated career includes five premierships, 16 interleague appearances and selection for Victoria Country in 1982.

Affectionately known as ‘Ninga’, O’Connell said it was a “massive honour” to have a medal named after him.

“I was involved with interleague for many years and to be back involved in this way is very special for me,” he said.

“Interleague football is important for all involved and particularly the players. They are competing against the best of the best from other leagues which helps bring the best out in everyone.”

O’Connell, who was named in the BFNL’s 80s Team of the Decade and captained Eaglehawk’s Team of the Century, was inducted into the league’s Hall of Fame in 2010.

Reflecting on his interleague days, he fondly recalled the many overnight trips for away games.

“The comradery we developed on those overnight trips is something that lasts with you forever,” he said. “A lot of us are still mates today.”

The under-19 side clash will kick off at 11.30am at the Queen Elizabeth Oval. O’Connell will present the first medal to the standout BFNL player. The best on ground in the senior match at 2.30pm will be awarded the Derrick Filo Medal.

BFNL manager Tom King thanked O’Connell and his family for embracing the honour.

“We look forward to celebrating Robert’s legacy with this medal for many years to come,” he said.

The under-19 side will be coached by Kangaroo Flat’s Jason Stevens, with Gisborne’s James Gray to captain. Golden Square’s Jack McMahon and Kangaroo Flat’s Aaron Nevins are the vice-captains.