VFL first for Torquay

ERIN PEARSON
WILLIAMSTOWN will take on the Cats this Sunday in the first VFL match on the Surf Coast.
The Easter Sunday game will pit the two teams playing for an inaugural Surf Coast Trophy as well as four premiership points.
The pair will clash at Torquay after a multimillion-dollar refurbishment of Williamstown’s home ground left the club temporarily without turf.
The Seagulls will redirect their home games to various centres across the state, including Torquay, Keilor and Wangaratta.
The round-four clash was initially planned for Good Friday but the league’s board rejected the bid, instead scheduling the match for Sunday.
Torquay Football Club president Ross Henderson said the Easter game could become a regular fixture if successful.
“Williamstown have already indicated that if it’s deem a success they’ll have no hesitation in considering it as a permanent fixture in the years to come,” he said.
“It’s going to be a huge day and everyone’s really excited.
“It’s always good for Torquay players and the like to watch high-level games in a more-relaxed atmosphere.”
The match will present potential AFL stars of the future including Geelong youngsters Jordan Schroder, Josh Cowan, Stephen Motlop and Nathan Vardy alongside promising Bulldogs Ayce Cordy, Mitch Wallis, Zephaniah Skinner and Jayden Schofield.
The game will also feature seasoned Cats ruckman Mark Blake as well as young senior players Simon Hogan and Trent West.
Cats coach Dale Amos said he expected Williamstown to put up a strong fight.
“Easter footy is a pretty exciting concept and hopefully a lot of local support will come down.”
Torquay Commerce and Tourism Association president Martin Duke said the VFL match would build on the Rip Curl Pro, ANZAC Day dawn service and Torquay College fete to attract thousands of visitors.
“There’s just so much happening.”