FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME

Old Xavs celebrate 100 years

More than 800 people packed Centrepiece Melbourne last Saturday evening to celebrate 100 years of Red & Black. It was a once-in-a-century celebration for a club that means so much to so many. 83 OXFC premiership flags were draped around the room, while the club’s 14 A Section premiership cups took pride of place on the stage.

It was a memorable night. President Matt Cosgrave spoke and club legend Dermot Dann linked a series of videos with his remarkable anecdotes, while special numbered centenary guernseys (featuring the names of every premiership player, premiership coach and life members) were sold at auction.

Here’s to the next 100 years!

Jack Batten (who passed away peacefully on 12 th May) was and will remain in our memory as a wonderful man. A fine amateur footballer, Jack captained the University Blacks’ 1974 A Section premiership side (playing about 80 games for the Blacks) and coached the Old Xaverians to a premiership in 1978. A loving husband and father whose boys also played for the Blacks (and Old Melburnians), Jack was good company and an engaging and interested friend to many. He even had a share in a Group 1 winner! A highly regarded barrister, Jack was a skilled and fearless advocate who will be missed by his colleagues at the Bar. A person of integrity, character, intellect and deep faith, on 19 th May, a large gathering participated in a funeral mass for the repose of Jack’s soul at the Immaculate Conception Church, Hawthorn in addition to which marvellous eulogies were given Jack’s children, Fiona, David, Luke and Nicholas. May you rest in peace, Jack. Blackers unum et omnia, Blackers one and all.

Andrew Donald, president - Melbourne University Football Club, barrister.