By Tara Murray
On a day full of memories and history, Rockbank Football Sporting Club celebrated its 100th anniversary on Saturday.
As the Rams did battle on field and court with Lancefield, there was plenty of enjoyment from those who came from far and wide to celebrate.
Rams president Mark Smith said the brilliant occasion included a special luncheon.
“We had about 100 people there,” he said. “Steve Lowerson, who coached in the early 2000s, was there – as was Jack Edwards, who coached the side to three premierships in the 1960s.
“Brendan and Michael Hoey came down from Queensland for the day.
“We had members from the Trethowan, Harrison and Gillespie families here, which was fantastic.”
Smith said the oldest person at the event was 96-year-old Bertha Missen, who he said had an absolute ball. Her family donated some of the land the club now sits on.
The club named its team of the century and teams of the past 20 years in both the football and netball to coincide with its 20 years in the Riddell District Football Netball League.
Smith, who was named in both teams, was one of three players from the modern day era named in the team of the century.
David Innella and current player Tom Mainey were the others.
Smith said the naming of the various teams was a big winner with attendees.
Edwards was named coach of the team of the century and gave a stirring speech to the crowd.
Three Trethowan members were named in the team of the century, with William Trethowan being named as the side’s vice-president.
The club inducted 18 life members and had a new life members board erected.
The club has put together a book to mark the occasion, with records and photos dating back to 1919.
Smith said the book showed the highs and lows of the club.
“The football club grew out of paddocks, as there wasn’t anything better to do,” he said.
Smith said the day and book wouldn’t have gone ahead without the former president Brian Kirk, who devoted a lot of time to the projects.
As the club is in the middle of a tough period, Smith said any quality footballers, netballers and volunteers would be welcome.
Smith said anyone interested in purchasing the book should contact the club.
PHOTO GALLERY: Rockbank vs Lancefield
On field, it was a tough day for the Rams’ senior football team against Lancefield. In a battle between the bottom two sides, the Tigers came away with a big 15.14 (104)-1.4 (10) win.
Anthony Close was the goal kicker for the Rams. Not for the first time this season, it was the Baumgartner brothers, Mitchell and Jordan, who were the Rams’ best.
In other results, Diggers Rest had no issues against Broadford, winning 22.7 (139)-2.7 (19).
Deven Costigan kicked seven goals for the Burras.
With Romsey suffering a loss, the Burras are now only percentage from top.
Melton Centrals had the bye.
