"At seven years old, Matthew Payne played his first ever game of AFL in front of 30,000 people at the SCG in the half time Auskick. Now, ten years later, the seventeen year old is set to return to the hallowed ground for the first time to line up for the Sydney Swans Reserves when they take on Ainslie this Saturday in the curtain raiser to the Sydney Swans v Carlton match.
Matthew has proven himself a strong player over the years and since his debut for the Emu Plains Lions Under 10's, he has grown into an accomplished Penrith Rams Under 18's player.
Although he will be missed in the Rams season opener against Macquarie University, it is a proud moment for both his junior club, Emu Plains/Glenmore Park with whom Matt played almost 200 club games and his new senior club, Penrith Rams in which he has been honored with a captaincy role in 2009.
After a distinguished junior career which included many representative duties including Starz, Brumbies, Western Sydney Pioneers and Swans Academy selection as well as being a member of the undefeated Sydney Under 15's side that competed in the Victorian V-Line series, Matt chose to stay at Penrith this year despite various offers from other clubs and will be vital in the Rams Under 18's assault on this years Challenge Cup.
"I am thrilled with Matty's selection in the Swans side" Rams Youth Football Manager, Greg Corless commented. "Matt is a quality player and is still heavily involved in coaching the junior sides. He has always had the greatest respect from his team-mates and opposition alike. He recently was rewarded with the Penrith Valley Sport Foundation Award to add to his glowing resume. His selection explodes the myth that players have to leave Penrith to gain recognition."
The Swans Reserves match starts at 10.50am at the SCG.
Story courtesy of www.aflnswact.com.au
Last Modified on 07/03/2010 08:28
