It’s first-in, best-dressed for fans who want a once in a lifetime opportunity at the highly anticipated Hall of Fame Tribute Match on May 10. The first 10,000 people to purchase tickets online or via Tickmaster for the Victoria v Dream Team clash will be able to walk on the hallowed MCG turf before the game.
Meanwhile, Dream Team coach Mark ‘Choco’ Williams says that, while picking a squad with the right mix of players has been a nightmare, creating his ultimate footy team is like living a fantasy.
The Dream Team may be a who’s who of the AFL’s biggest names, but Victorian Assistant Coach Kevin Sheedy says he’s confident Victoria will get the job done.
Both squads are dominated by players from reigning premiers Geelong. South Australian teams also featured prominently, but Chad Cornes is one player Dream Team selectors won’t be able to consider. The Port Adelaide star expects to miss three to four weeks with a broken finger, and is serving a one week suspension for striking St Kilda’s Jason Blake.
Geelong’s Tom Harley (glute), West Coast’s Dean Cox (foot) and Adam Hunter (knee) are other Dream Team names either in doubt or unavailable due to injury.
Essendon’s Alwyn Davey is gone from the Victorian squad after a season-ending knee injury, while the Bomber’s Dustin Fletcher (adductor) is out of action for another two weeks, and Brisbane Lions’ Nigel Lappin is in doubt for the Big V after achilles troubles.
Hundreds of AFL stars not selected in the Victorian or Dream Team squads will get back to grassroots footy as they visit local clubs around Australia for Community Football Weekend on May 10-11.
Australian Football 150 Years ambassador Kevin Sheedy said the weekend was not just for players, but for all the people who support community clubs.
"This includes your officials and volunteers, or the mum who has made the post-match sandwiches for the past 20 years, grandpa who still brings out the oranges at quarter and three-quarter time, or the children who watch Dad or Mum play each week,” said Sheedy.
Wherever you end up on Community Football Weekend, be sure to thank the people that keep your club running.
