St Michael’s Grammar School is pleased to announce a new strategic partnership with Port Melbourne Football Club. The partnership formalises a collaboration between two organisations who share a deep commitment to their values and engaging with the local community.
Fondly known as ‘The Borough’, Port Melbourne FC is dedicated to building meaningful connections that provide ongoing value to the community, through a raft of programs and charity affiliations.
Established in 1874, Port Melbourne FC is one of the oldest football clubs in Australia who have enjoyed a long history of success.
Former greats of the Club include triple Brownlow Medallist Bob Skilton, legendary player and coach Ron Barassi, and former player and coach turned radio commentator Tommy Lahiff, among many more.
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'The Borough' won their first premiership in 1897 -
Port Melbourne’s CEO, Paul Malcolm presents the Head of the School, Mrs Terrie Jones with a framed Port Melbourne FC jumper
The partnership will provide St Michael’s students with development opportunities with Port Melbourne players and coaches. Among other deliverables, Port Melbourne will also provide opportunities for St Michael’s students to attend training sessions and other unique meet-and-greet experiences.
Port Melbourne FC will have use of the gym, swimming pool and other facilities at St Michael’s campus, outside of School hours and during term breaks.
Paul Malcolm, the Club’s Chief Executive Officer believes that the partnership will strengthen and complement both organisations ability to develop strong teams.
“We’re very happy to be partnering with St Michael’s. We will help develop capacity and capability of St Michael’s football players and in doing so, grow participation and develop a pathway for boys and girls,” said Mr Malcolm.
St Michael’s encourages and promotes the sport of Australian Football among students regardless of gender, culture or physical ability. The School is proud of its football program and the recent introduction of a girls’ side.
“There is natural alignment between St Michael’s and Port Melbourne in the areas of youth mentoring, diversity, leadership and values, which provides many opportunities for engagement,” said Mrs Jones.
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Port Melbourne FC women's team
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In 2018, the St Michael’s girls’ team won the inaugural ACS football competition
Port Melbourne FC currently has 33 registered female players and its Women’s team is coached by Harold Hetherton, assisted by Mat Waters, Paige Holt and Tony Ebeyer.
It’s Men’s team has 42 registered players and is coached by AFL & VFL Legend Gary Ayres along with former AFL/Port Melbourne Players Sam Dwyer, Shane Valenti along with Crackers Keenan, Trent McMicking and Chris Jansen. Port Melbourne Football Club’s home ground is the historic North Port Oval.
St Michael’s is looking forward to working with Port Melbourne FC and to strengthening the partnership in the years to come.
