Reclink Australia has commemorated the conclusion of its 2023 season with three days of grand final matches in Port Melbourne from August 29 to August 31.
This year’s season was rounded out by eight thrilling games between teams from Casey, Cardinia and all over Victoria, and follows three decades of providing opportunities for some of the most disadvantaged community members.
The opening day saw the Cohealth Kangaroos, Frankston Dolphins and Port Melbourne prevail over Wynbay Tigers, Maryborough Ravens and Bendigo Gold respectively.
The Port Melbourne side marked its long-awaited Reclink Football League debut with a thrilling last-gasp victory over the regional-based Gold.
The action continued to heat up despite the wintery conditions on day two, which saw Sunbury Phoenix defeat the Cardinia Tigers.
The Reclink All Stars prevailed in an extraordinary ‘golden point’ extra time win over Odyssey House; before the Collingwood Magpies proved too classy for a gallant Geelong outfit.
The final day featured another tight contest as the Ballarat Bushies scored a match-winning goal inside the final minute of play to defeat the Salvo Hawks, and the Casey Cobras overcame the Morwell Panthers.
A wide variety of past and present AFL personalities attended the competition, including current North Melbourne goal kicking superstar and recently-announced All Australian Nick Larkey.
Former champions Terry Daniher, Dermott Brereton and Billy Brownless also attended, as well as special guest commentary from Andy Maher, Anthony Hudson and Graham ‘Smokie’ Dawson.
