Leigh Matthews is an undisputed legend of the game.
He’s the AFL player of the century and a four-time premiership coach.
Now the Sunshine Coast is hoping Matthews can help it towards scoring a state league AFL team.
Matthews will be the Sunshine Coast QAFL State League bid’s patron. His first involvement will be as guest speaker at an information night for prospective financial supporters, volunteers and foundation members on June 2 at the Maroochydore RSL Club.
Shane Johnson, who is carrying out the feasibility study on a possible Sunshine Coast QAFL team, worked with Matthews at the Brisbane Lions and was delighted to secure the support of the influential four-time premiership player and Hall of Fame legend.
“Leigh is a strong believer in the cause of Sunshine Coast football and when it comes to a football voice of reason you don’t get much better,” Johnson said yesterday.
“He has offered his support to the campaign in what, no doubt, is a real coup.
“It certainly says to everyone involved that we’re on the right track in what is an important activity for the game on the Coast.”
Matthews will be the special guest speaker, providing a personal insight into one of the all-time great AFL careers, at the information night from 5.30pm-7.30pm.
“We’re looking for people who want to find out more about where things are at with the study and to possibly get involved with any new club by way of coteries, foundation memberships or as corporate partners,” Johnson said.
“A task as complex and extensive as setting up a football club to participate in the State League requires a lot of resources.
“Raising money to ensure the new club – if indeed we get it up and running – is critical.”
Johnson said he had targeted Matthews as patron because of his support for Sunshine Coast football.
“Leigh played a key role a few years back in setting up the relationship between the Lions and the Sunshine Coast, whereby local youngsters played as top-up players in the reserves,” Johnson said.
“He’s a believer in Sunshine Coast footy and the need to develop a pathway, whereby Sunshine Coast players can play at State League level without travelling to Brisbane to do so.”
Invitations to the information night will be sent this week to Sunshine Coast football supporters.
However, Johnson says those without a local football history are welcome to attend.
Article written by Travis Meyn for the Sunshine Coast Daily
Last Modified on 19/05/2010 11:44