History

Gisborne Masters Football Club was formed in 1986 and became a member of Victorian Country Superules. The founding members included the inaugural committee of Doug Belcher, Greg Kennedy and Gary Harley with Doug also being the first coach. The committee enlisted many members of the powerful Gisborne senior teams of the 1970’s, all whom had remained good friends over the years. Well known Gisborne identities such as Ian & Graeme Carmichael, Neville Smith, Greg Ramsay and Noel Wilcox all donned the jumper for the new team. During these early years the club would often travel to the opposition ground a few players short but in the spirit of the competition the teams would exchange players to start the game on a “level playing field.”

Over the years the club has evolved from a group of past players still having a kick to a family friendly club which embraces all new comers. In the past decade club stalwarts such as John Grant, Ken Grech and Paul Brun have given the opportunity to many prospective players to experience Aussie rules footy. New recruits from overseas such as South Africa, America and Ireland have all enjoyed the team aspects of the sport, while other new players have come from varying sporting backgrounds, including Soccer, Rugby Union and Volleyball. The aim of the club has always been to support its members and encourage the fitness and fun aspects of the game.

Throughout its history, Gisborne has always been known as a team which plays in accordance with the Masters Football philosophy, that we play “football for fun.”  Known for its camaraderie and its friendly and relaxed atmosphere, Gisborne is a team the opposition know will play within the spirit of the game.