FINALS fever is in the air, as Frankston hosted its first ever Reclink Footy League Grand Final last week. Frankston’s Kinetic Stadium hosted the event last Wednesday, 11 September. The Salvo Hawks played the Cardinia Tigers in the first match of the day, followed by a clash between Latrobe Valley Panthers and Frankston Dolphins.
The Cardinia Tigers defeated the Salvo Hawks. The Frankston Dolphins and Latrobe Valley Panthers game was unfortunately cut short due to a player requiring medical assistance.
75-year-old “Zippy” was among the players on the day – Zippy said after the game that “our team players come from all walks of life. They’re dealing with mental health challenges, homelessness – there’s just so much going on. But for one day, they’re champions, they’re legends.”
Reclink is a charity which works to connect social service agencies with the sport and recreation industry. Reclink senior program coordinator Rhan Harris said “each player in this Grand Final has faced their own set of personal challenges and worked incredibly hard to overcome them. Their commitment to getting in shape, showing up, and embracing the spirit of Reclink is truly inspiring.”
“There’s nothing like the thrill of the first kick-off – the adrenaline, the nerves leading up to the final siren. It’s an experience like no other,” Harris said. “After the game, players unwind, and that’s when the real magic happens. We connect on a deeper level, sharing experiences and forming bonds that are deeply moving. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact that community sport can have.”
First published in the Frankston Times – 17 September 2024