Sport
26 July, 2024
Game 100 for Luke
CAMPERDOWN’S Luke O’Neil will line up for his 100th senior game with the Magpies this weekend.
The talented backman, who this season also coaches the club’s under 18.5 side, will run out alongside his team-mates for their round 14 Hampden League clash against Cobden tomorrow.
“I’ve played all my footy, both juniors and seniors, with Camperdown so it’s pretty much home to me,” O’Neil said.
“Dad also played all his footy with the club and he was actually Camperdown’s last senior premiership captain back in 2000 so that’s pretty special.
“And being able to play alongside my brother, James, is an added bonus. We all love being a part of the club and enjoy not only the sport but the friendships made off the field.”
While the Magpies haven’t been as successful as they would have liked this season, currently sitting eighth with just four wins on the board, O’Neil believes they have the ability to win a few more before the season’s end.
“After a slow start we’ve played some good footy this year and we won a few in a row and got close to some of the top sides, but unfortunately the scoreboard didn’t go our way,” he said.
“Playing my 100th tomorrow against Cobden will be exciting and hopefully we can bring home the win.
“We always match up well with the Bombers; there’s some rivalry there but we always play their ground well so we’re in for a good chance.”
While he’s enjoying his on-field opportunities this season, O’Neil is also relishing in his position as coach of the club’s under 18.5s.
“They’re a great bunch of young blokes,” he said.
“Last year we didn’t win a game and now we’re just in the top five so that’s a great turnaround and something I’m really proud of.
“If we can continue to win some games in these last few home and away rounds, they’ll be up for finals footy which will be reward for effort.”