Footy reunion drew a crowd

ABOUT 200 past footballers and officials turned out at New Norfolk's Boyer Oval on Saturday for one of the biggest football reunions held in Tasmania.

The gathering was for representatives of all past and existing football clubs from the Derwent Valley and Central Highlands, with people coming from far and wide to attend.

A history display put up by Ray Aitchison was a real hit with well over 200 photos and countless folders with documents and history of clubs from bygone eras. Another display that attracted plenty of attention featured historic football guernseys.

Michael Booth, left, Tony Browning
and Tony Adams.

It was great to see so many familiar faces and stars including Jason Taylor in attendance. Taylor began his football career with New Norfolk and then at a young age was signed up by Hawthorn and later Collingwood.

Jason is the son of Noel "Squizzy" Taylor who also played with New Norfolk and Hawthorn. Noel's father Cliff Taylor coached New Norfolk to win the 1945 premiership over Clarence. I could mention many more of greats in attendance, but I would be writing all day.

Barry and Jan Barwick with John
Shoobridge in the clubrooms.

It was a most successful day and to cap things off the New Norfolk senior and reserves teams had big wins against Hobart, while the Under 18s just fell short. Thanks to all who helped with the setting-up and running of the reunion and to Matthew Smith for coming up with the idea of the big reunion, as well as all who came along.

WADE GLEESON

Zac Clayton, left, chats with brothers Owen and
David Browning.

Darren Stevenson, left, with Mark Nicholls and Jason Wilton.

One of the displays at the reunion.