Hamlyn Oval was decked out in purple on Saturday for the fourth installment of Zoe Kennedy’s Tribute Match.
Supported by Bell Park Dragons and Newtown & Chilwell Eagles, the game honours the life of Zoey, who lost her life to asthma in 2020 at age 13.
Zoe’s dad Lach played for the Dragons and brother Ned currently wears the green and white. Zoe played netball for the Eagles as does sister Maggie.
To honour Zoe’s life and memory, The Zoe Kennedy Foundation was founded by her family and construction company Figurehead Group to help improve the lives of young people with asthma.
The foundation has raised more than $500,000 over five years to support asthma education programs, healthcare solutions and research projects through community events such as the Zoe Kennedy Tribute Match.
“This match shows just how strong the Geelong community is when it comes to looking after our own and raising awareness that can literally save lives,” Lach said.
“The tribute match is a day to honour her memory but also a day to make a real difference. Zoe wouldn’t want any young person with asthma to miss out on the sport they love.
“It’s two clubs getting together who were a big part of her life. She watched me play footy throughout my career and knew everyone at Bell Park while she played netball for Newtown.
“It’s also about people checking in and hopefully it motivates them to manage their asthma and remind them about what needs to be done to make sure it’s you’re on top of your asthma.”
Purple is the theme of the day and players, supporters and officials were proudly showing their colours.
