Eddie Russell
Ballan residents turned out in droves to witness former Richmond captain Trent Cotchin run out in the navy blue jumper on Saturday.
After not seeing a home game for two years, more than 2000 people attended the newly renovated Ballan Recreation Reserve.
The help of the superstar, who kicked four goals, was not enough to stop the home side going down by 46 points against Newlyn.
However, the result extended beyond the scoreboard.
Ballan president David O’Hanlon said Cotchin’s presence was the talk of the town.
“Wherever you went for the last month people were asking about it, whether you’d be at the supermarket or down the pub for a quiet beer,” he said.
“It’ll be a big help and I’m sure it’ll be talked about for a long time – the day that Trent Cotchin came.”
Mr O’Hanlon said other clubs involved in The Carlton Draft initiative were looking to Ballan as an example moving forward.
“I’ve spoken with two of the other clubs, because we were the first ones to have it this year, and they’re asking us for tips and pointers,” he said.
“We’ve given them a bit of info that they can use on their day. One club hasn’t won a game for two years so it’ll boost morale a thousand times.”
Mr O’Hanlon said the significance of local football in the community can’t be ignored.
“When you look at clubs like ours, where there is one club per town, everything shuts at lunch time on Saturday because everyone is off to the footy.
“It’s pretty special for someone of his calibre to play country footy. I think he got a real buzz out of it too.”
