Rigorous training is underway for the third annual Perth Reclink Community Cup, which will see members of Dream Rimmy, Eskimo Joe, Koi Child and more taking on music industry types next month for the ultimate prize - bragging rights.
Hitting Fremantle Oval on September 3 with performances from End Of Fashion, The Floors and The Brow, the event will raising funds and awareness for Reclink Australia, who assist those dealing with mental illness, disability, homelessness, substance abuse, addiction and more.
It’s serious business, and with game-day fast approaching we caught up with some of the players for an idea of what to expect.
Kristie “The Bone Machine” Butler (The Newshounds)
Media outlet: Drastic On Plastic and Soul Sides on RTRFM. I also play in the band Joanie Get Angry.
Why does music and footy work so well together? This is a bit lame, but footy and music are both about passion, a little healthy aggression and a good time.
Why should people support the Community Cup? The Community Cup is for a great cause - there are so many young people on the streets, and the footy game is a great way to raise awareness and funds for Reclink's good work.
What can we expect come game day? Come game day, fans can expect some great music, some laughs at the antics of the football players, fumbles, hero moments and an all up fun time!
Highlights from previous years? I have won the best dressed medal two out of two times - I will be receiving it a third time, don't you worry about that.
Billie “The Kid” Rogers (The Bandgropers)
Band: Frontwoman of Rogers & The Country Gentlemen
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Why does music and footy work so well together? Each are equally as integral as the other in the mish mash of things that make Australian culture what it is. Do musicians classically have the kind of physique required to play AFL? Maybe not. Can AFL players successfully front a band? Who knows?! Let's keep the dream alive!
Why should people support the Community Cup? Because it's a bloody great cause. People should be able to belong to something, to access sport and the arts in the hope of enhancing their lives even if they are down and out or disadvantaged. Physical activity and community involvement are two very brilliant things that have an amazing ability to improve ones's mental health whilst delivering a sense of ownership over the very piece of dirt you are born on to. Plus... footy, music, springtime, Father's Day, beef, Fremantle. Nuff said?
What can we expect come game day? A great game, a big crowd, lots of competitive spirit and many a sore body.
Highlights from past years? Tom Fishers' inspirational four-goal haul last year!
Tenille “Squasher” Elkins (The Bandgropers)
Band: Elk Bell
Media Outlet: APRA AMCOS
Why does music and footy work so well together? Sport and music, two of people’s favourite past-times, what a combo! Both promote good vibes and energy and when put together can create a powerhouse of positivity. That’s what we’re aiming for!
Why should people support the Community Cup? It’s a great day out and by coming along you’re helping to raise funds for disadvantaged Australians that goes towards improving their health and wellbeing. Everyone involved is donating their time so it would be great to have a huge turnout to spur everyone on and raise lots of funds.
What can we expect come game day? GOOD VIBES! Fun on the field but we’re also out to win - the Bandgropers are gearing up to defend our winning streak and make it a hat trick. There are three great local bands performing live on the day for your extra entertainment pleasure.
Highlights from past years? I caught the ball! There were a few killer mud slides on the field. Last year there was a streaker, although, I’m not sure that fits in the ‘highlights’ section but it was definitely an event.
Anything else you'd like to add? It’s Fathers Day! So bring all the dads out for a musical and sporting adventure. Look forward to seeing you there.
Addison Axe (Bandgropers)
Band: The Tommyhawks/Axe Girl
Why does music and footy work so well together? Both involve drinking beer.
Why should people support the Community Cup? Because it will be both thrilling and hilarious, and who would want to miss out on an opportunity to party with your community whilst supporting a great cause?
What can we expect come game day? Blood, sweat, tears, sex, drugs, rock’n’roll.
Highlights from previous years? This is my first year! I'm a footy virgin!
Anything else you'd like to add? I’ve never played footy in my life. But I LOVE it. I'm very competitive. Watch out.
Head to the Community Cup website for all the details.
