Olga, Stewart, Paul, Isabelle, Fiona, Lynette, Bobby, Steven and Tim had fun with the footy mascots. 50825 Picture Donna Oates
By Gavin Staindl
SANDOWN Cobras president Lew Short said he was as “proud as punch” after the inaugural clinic held for disabled adults and children at the Sandown football ground exceeded expectations.
One hundred and 60 participants from schools and disability centres around Greater Dandenong and the Mornington Peninsula ventured to Edinburgh Reserve to get a taste of what it was like being a footballer for a day.
After being shown around the club rooms, introduced to the Richmond and Collingwood mascots and quizzed on their football knowledge, the participants broke up into groups and were put through their paces in kicking, handballing and tackling before taking part in a scrimmage match.
Short said he predicted 60 to 70 participants but was stunned when he saw more than double that number running around on his oval.
“The ground was choc-a-block and it was a very enjoyable day,” Short said.
Along with a few other helpers, Short was inspired by similar clinics held among the peninsula football clubs.
“I thought it would be a good idea. You’re doing something for the community and doing something for the less fortunate,” he said. “It was a great thrill.”
