By Nick Creely
Local football legend Stewart Kemperman officially announced his retirement from football in an emotional address at the Peter Reece Medal.
Adding to this, the humble champion was awarded Life Membership, along with Tony McGarrigle at Noble Park in what was due recognition of his commitment and loyalty to his football club.
Kemperman, 32, possesses a phenomenal playing career but will now take on a different challenge as senior coach of Berwick.
The superstar half-back spent his junior career at Berwick, before playing with the Dandenong Stingrays, winning a premiership with Beaconsfield, before joining the Frankston Dolphins in the VFL for four years.
Kemperman was best known as a tremendous kick of the football, as well as for strong football nous and elite fitness.
In 2007 when Kemperman joined Noble Park, he made his name as a quality footballer and leader.
He was a key contributor in multiple premierships and for a brief stint took over the senior coaching role in a caretaking capacity.
Kemperman was full of praise for the club and was grateful for the positive influence the club had had on his life.
“I’ve been very fortunate to play at such a wonderful club and you look around the room and everyone you see is just such a great person.
“Credit to everyone and the loyalty they have shown over the years and remaining true to the club.
“Some of my best mates in life are from this club so I’m very thankful and I can’t explain my gratitude enough at the moment,” an emotional Kemperman said.
Noble Park club legend Craig Anderson has also played his last game for the football club, in a career at the Bulls spanning over a decade.
Anderson, who spent time on Collingwood’s rookie list, was a creative and line-breaking midfielder who played with soul and heart every time he stepped foot on the turf.
The club will now have to more forward without the presence of two of their greatest champions, but are well equipped to move forward with the lessons they have brought to the club.
