RELATED COVERAGE: An ‘irreplaceable’ legend
TAC Cup clubs are celebrating 25 years of competition by recognising local legends and welcoming former players back to the clubrooms.
The 25-year partnership with the Transport Accident Commission also takes on a new mantra as the clubs commit to stand together towards zero deaths and serious injuries on the roads.
Veteran half-back and former TAC Cup player Robert ‘Bob’ Murphy, will make a return to the Gippsland Power on Wednesday, 13 July for a Towards Zero Player Night.
Murphy is one of many top AFL players who have come through the TAC Cup, a partnership that builds leadership skills, including being a safe road user, as young people get a kick-start on their football and driving careers.
The night will also recognise Power’s club legend, Roger Knowles, who has become an irreplaceable member of the team.
Each TAC Cup club is recognising their local legends this season for their contribution to the long running success of the competition.
TAC chief executive Joe Calafiore said the return of role models like Murphy reinforced how TAC Cup players have the opportunity to show leadership on and off the field.
“All TAC Cup players know how important it is to stand together as a team. This year we are asking them to stand together with us in the Towards Zero approach to road safety,” Calafiore said.
“We know that young Victorians are among the most likely to be hurt on our roads and that’s why our partnership with AFL Victoria and the TAC Cup clubs is so valuable – it enables us to reach out directly to young people and empower them to become positive role models.”
This year’s milestone coincides with a new partnership with the REACH Foundation, which will see every player participate in peer-to-peer workshops, strengthening their ability to lead and influence their communities on road safety.
Next year the leadership program sessions will expand to include the Youth Girls and Diversity programs.
Throughout the 2016 season, each club will reveal their local legend and highlight the important role they play within the club.
