WHEN David Gallagher left Sandringham early last year it appeared the curtain had fallen on the career of one of the best players in the VFL in the first decade of the new millennium.
Gallagher was the last member of the Zebras’ super team of 2004-05-06 when Sandringham, under the coaching of Mark Williams, dominated the competition like few other clubs in the competition’s history.
There was little that Gallagher didn’t achieve at the Trevor Barker Oval – two best and fairests, including one in a premiership year, named four times to the VFL Team of the Year and captaining the club.
The former Adelaide/Carlton player was an integral part of that dynasty, but on the losing side of 30, it appeared Gallagher’s VFL career had finished.
Wrong.
Gallagher, who played his first VFL match in 2002 when he was on Carlton’s list and the Blues fielded its own VFL team, may be the second oldest player in the competition – John Baird has him covered by 55days - but you would never know it.
He said he’s as enthusiastic as he ever was during his time with Sandringham.
Last year Gallagher spent his time as assistant coach of University Blues in the VAFA and while he deliberately didn’t play, he maintained his training regimen.
“I was still pretty fit and still pretty hungry to play good football,” Gallagher said.
“I thought I still had some pretty good football in me and something to offer the game and in particular younger players as a teammate.”
While he lives literally around the corner from Port Melbourne, Gallagher hit it off with Frankston coach Simon Goosey and Dolphins’ General Manager Bryan Mace.
“I just liked their vibe,” Gallagher said.
As for his departure from Sandringham, Gallagher noted: “My time had come for a change.”
While the season remains in its infancy, Gallagher is loving his new ‘digs’ and reconnecting to the VFL.
“Frankston on its own is really, really in a good place right now in terms of the energy of the place and one of ‘Goose’s (coach Simon Goosey) fundamental beliefs is that football should be fun.
“He puts a lot of work into ensuring the boys are having a good time as well as the hard work. In terms of the atmosphere and energy of the place, it’s awesome.”
From his time with Uni Blues, Gallagher said he took away the importance of having a “responsible and hard-edged playing group”.
Gallagher added that he’s hoping he can have some “positive effect” on the young Dolphins in that regard.
As for the 2013 season being his swansong, Gallagher is not putting any boundaries on when his VFL career may end.
“I’m pretty sure my body would be completely fine to do it, but I don’t really have a plan,” Gallagher said.
“Short term I just want to play some hot footy and help the young boys do the same.”
Photo: Kim O'Sullivan Photography
Last Modified on 22/05/2013 12:04