St Joseph's Nudgee College

February 19, 2009

St Joseph's Nudgee College yesterday hosted the Brisbane Lions who played a recreational game against the College's 2008 premiership-winning U13 Aussie Rules team.

Nudgee College Old Boy Jamie Charman joined teammates Travis Johnstone, Scott Clouston, Jason Roe, Joel Patfull, James Polkinghorne, Aaron Cornelius, Cheyne Stiller, Matt Austin, Pearce Hanley, Adam Spackman, Ash McGrath, Michael Rischitelli, Sam Sheldon, Kieran King and Albert Proud to take on the College’s 2008 U13 team who won the Jonathon Brown Cup (SEQ School Boys division) last year.

1999 Old Boy Charman expressed how excited he was to be back at the College and, more importantly, playing a game of AFL on Ross Oval.

"To have a day where we are playing a match on Ross Oval is unbelievable really because this ground will always be associated with rugby union," he said.

While it may traditionally be the home of union at the College, yesterday's game drew a large crowd of students and staff who provided a great atmosphere.

Adding to the fun was commentary from current Year 12 student Jason Dore. His witty remarks and half time chats with Jamie and coach Mr John Stackpoole provided the crowd with many laughs. 

The visit was one of the Brisbane Lions community-related activities as part of the Telstra AFL Community Camp program. 

AFL Recreational Football can be played by all ages and genders as it allows participants to utilise fundamental AFL skills in a fun and safe environment. The game is non contact, easy to play and is not physically demanding making it a perfect way for adults and children to play together.

Asked what advice he had for current students with a desire to play for the Lions, Jamie’s advice was simple: enjoy yourself now.

“Enjoy yourself while you’re young. The serious stuff you need to do to make it to the Lions comes later on.”

The final result of the match was Nudgee College 7.3 (45) defeated Brisbane Lions 3.3 (21).

Photos courtesy of Slattery Media Group