“Good Old (AFL)…Forever!”

Three words – Australian Rules Football – stirs fiery passions in many a breast in the Antipodes. The auspicious winter of 1858 saw Tom Wills call for a game to keep cricketers fit in off-season. On August 7 that same year, Melbourne Grammar began a 'football' contest against Scotch College that took three Saturdays to be concluded. And the tale continued in Lasallian schools up to the present.

Melbourne and Geelong clubs, respectively founded in 1858 and 1859, boast among the oldest continuous sporting clubs in the world. It was only natural that De La Salle College Malvern, from 1912, would be playing the game which incorporated two leagues in Victoria – the Football Association and the upstart VFL – a league of five Melbourne teams with Geelong formed 15 years previously.

Old Boys of the Malvern College number 40 players in their Archives. They are proud of the inimitable Jack Dyer (1931-49), for Richmond), one of the first 12 ‘Legends’. John Kennedy Snr (1950-59) & official, was elevated to Legend status. Others include Terry Waters 1963-72 (Collingwood) who kicked 50 goals in his debut season. The grandson of a champion Gaelic footballer, Barry Breen played for St Kilda from 1965 to 1982. He became Sydney Swans general manager and was president of the Tasmanian Football League from 1992 until 1995. In 1998, Trent Croad was drafted for Hawthorn 1998; a grandson of All Black Eric Boggs, an All-Australian 3 times, he retired from injury in 2010. Michael Sinear, coach, administrator & official 2002 ff; Andrew Carrazzo (2004-15).

St Bede’s College Mentone can boast currently six ex-students: Finn Callaghan (GWS), Calsher Dear (Hawthorn), Blake Howse (Melbourne), Miles Bergman (Pt Adelaide), Hayden McLean (Sydney), and Ryan Byrnes (St Kilda). In addition, AFL officials in2024 include Luke Beveridge, coach of Western Bulldogs & player at Footscray, Melbourne, and St Kilda. Umpires have included Simon Meredith (10th Grand Final), and Robert O’Gorman.

The seaside college has former players including Barry Harrison, David Spriggs, Paul Callery, Greg Healy, and Gerard Healy (1988 Brownlow Medal winner). AFL coaches have been Troy Schwarze, Grant Thomas, and umpires Steve McBurney (head of umpires), and Chris Donlon.

St James College East Bentleigh (prior to its amalgamation with St Bede’s) saw several other players finding an AFL career; Luke Beveridge was one. Others include Liam Sumner (GWS), Jarryd Lyons (Adelaide Crows, Gold Cost Suns & Brisbane Lions),  and Corey Lyons (Brisbane Lions).  St Michael’s Adelaide has just congratulated Scott Thompson, graduate of 2000, who has just been inducted into the South Australian Football Hall of Fame.

As we reflect on the rich tapestry of Australian Rules Football, it’s clear that the game is not just a sport but a vibrant part of the cultural fabric of the nation. From its humble beginnings in 1858 to the modern-day achievements of alumni from Lasallians schools like De La Salle College Malvern, St Bede’s College Mentone, and beyond, the legacy of this beloved game continues to inspire new generations. Schools such as St Michael’s Adelaide, La Salle College, Middle Swan, and Oakhill College also contribute to this rich legacy, producing their own champions of the national game. The stories of players, coaches, and officials intertwined with the history of these institutions underscore the enduring passion and community spirit that Australian Rules Football fosters. As we look to the future, it is exciting to imagine how this incredible journey will evolve, leaving an indelible mark on both the players and the fans who live and breathe the game.

Source: Br Gary Wilson FSC