Football
FOOTBALL CLUB ’ S FOCUS TURNS TO ITS CENTENARY YEAR
OLD SCOTCH ’ S
UNDER 19S WELCOME THE WOMEN ’ S TEAM ON TO MCQUEEN PARK BEFORE A
GAME IN 2019
No VAFA football in 2020 – but plenty to look forward to in 2021
For the first time in 75 years – since World War II hostilities eventually ceased – there was no VAFA football in 2020 . The decision to abandon the season was made on the cusp of the second wave of coronavirus cases in Melbourne in early July .
I thank everyone who has worked so hard to prepare the club this year , against such a backdrop of uncertainty , including the committee and staff , our corporate partners , members and donors , and our coaching team .
I especially acknowledge the commitment of all levels of government – federal , state and local – for their financial commitment to help local sport navigate the choppy seas this year . I also note the commitment of our players , who were working harmoniously towards making us as competitive as possible in season 2020 .
Our focus immediately turns to season 2021 – the centenary of the club . The committee is working collaboratively to ensure we are best prepared to confront the immediate-term challenges , so that 2021 will be as special as it can be , while also keeping an eye on our long-term future .
Geoff McCracken (’ 65 ), John Bell (’ 60 ) and Bruce Brown (’ 60 ) have been working hard for the past few years to compile the club ’ s centenary history in book form . We hope this will be launched in May 2021 . Sandra Dick is putting together a centenary events plan which we expect will capture the imagination of all those involved in the club , past and present .
We hope to be in upgraded facilities at McQueen Park for the 2021 season . Both pavilions are being completely refurbished thanks to the City of Boroondara , which is a great supporter of local sport . I personally thank Gardiner Ward Councillor , Coral Ross , for the amazing support she has provided over two decades .
At the recent Boroondara Sports Awards , the club was recognised for its outstanding work , winning the Inclusive Club of the Year Award . The award , given to a sports club that has delivered a program , event or project which primarily focuses on welcoming and engaging under-represented groups or communities to the club , comes after Old Scotch introduced a women ’ s team in 2018 .
The Old Scotch Stars built on a sensational first season by taking out the division one flag in 2019 . The club formed an incredible partnership with Methodist Ladies ’ College , and it was through that relationship Old Scotch Stars was born and continues to thrive .
Off the field , the club has moved to reappoint key personnel ahead of the 2021 season , with Donald McDonald , Mark Gnatt and Chris Goldstraw recommitting . Mark Gnatt will lead the senior men ’ s side back into William Buck Premier after coaching the Holmesglen Under 19s to their first Premier section flag in 67 years in 2019 , while Chris Goldstraw made the move to McQueen Park from Forest Hill in the Eastern Football League earlier this year .
Donald McDonald is as well credentialled as they come , and has brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the club as a former AFL player ( North Melbourne ), coach , and administrator .
TIM SHEARER (' 85 ) – PRESIDENT , OLD SCOTCH FOOTBALL CLUB
www . scotch . vic . edu . au Great Scot 69