Our Champs!
RSL Victoria congratulates its RSL Active team, who took out the 2024 Toyota AFL Open (21-26 November) Wheelchair Division Two in Brisbane.
The annual competition showcases the nation’s best wheelchair athletes from across the country.
The team’s coach, Army Veteran Brett Newman led the team of eight veterans to victory against NSW/ACT 121 – 54, following an intense and action-packed fixture schedule.
The team, who took time out of their busy lives to represent RSL Active in the six-day event, comprised of Matthew Blunt (Captain), Andi Kauer (Vice Captain), Rye Shawcroft, Dani Hale, James Barker, Sam Maraldo, Tim O’Connor and Mel Kruze.
They also dedicated themselves for months in the leadup to training sessions and team bonding.
Tim was named Best on Ground and RSL Active Most Valuable Player, while Sam was named in the All-Australian team, and as the AFL Open leading goal kicker for Division Two.
“It was a rollercoaster of a week, and we couldn’t be prouder of how our team represented themselves both on and off the field,” said Salina Parton, Team Manager and RSL Active Program and Events Officer.
She said it was a privilege to witness the impact of participating, with many of the benefits for mental and physical health exactly what RSL Active aims to achieve.
“Our athletes and coach, all veterans, share a bond rooted in their life experiences of service, and that connection was evident throughout the tournament. We are immensely proud of how they performed under pressure, and how the team supported one another every step of the way.”
Team managers Salina and Wendy Bateman worked tirelessly to get the team to Brisbane, together with the support of several partners, including RSL Sub-Branches, sporting bodies and the Victorian State Government.
