Pakenham’s vibrant sports scene continues to showcase its talent and community spirit as two key events marked the end of the year.
On December 23, 2024, the Melbourne Storm organized an open training session at the Comely Banks Recreation Reserve, attracting hundreds of enthusiastic fans excited to see their heroes perform. Just ten weeks after their hard-fought NRL grand final against Penrith, where they lost 14-6, the Storm players showed no signs of fatigue. They entertained the crowd with their athletic prowess during the four-hour session, which highlighted the club's commitment to engaging its supporter base.
Comely Banks, home to the Pakenham Eels Rugby League Club, boasts one of Victoria’s premier rugby league facilities, capable of accommodating large-scale events with its four full-size pitches. This venue is only one of two such locations available for professional rugby league training sessions, which adds to its significance.
The training session featured all four Melbourne Storm squads, including their Under 21, Under 19, and Under 17 teams. Fans had the chance to meet notable players like reigning Dally M Medal winner Jerome Hughes, dynamic fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen, and other stars such as Nelson Asofa-Solomona and Nick Meaney. Among the crowd favorites was Atticus Buchanan, the first Pakenham Eels player to be selected for the Melbourne Storm's pathways program. Having made it through from 160 hopefuls down to the final 38, Buchanan carries the aspirations of many local supporters as he aims for the final 28-player squad for the NRL Under-17 competition, the Harold Matthews Cup. “We want to make sure we put on a show for our fans,” remarked one of the Melbourne Storm officials, emphasizing their dedication to the community.
Meanwhile, attention turns to the cricketing field as the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) prepares to send their Crusaders team to compete at Melbourne Country Week 2025. Captain Cal O’Hare leads the squad, which has been promoted to the elite Provincial Division following their stellar performance last year, where they finished as runners-up. This year promises to build upon last season’s success.
Selectors for the CCCA have gathered a wish list of 31 players from ten clubs within the Premier and District Divisions. This list will be narrowed down due to some players declining selection based on personal commitments. Among those declining is local superstar Chris Smith, who, along with others, signifies the competition's depth and the challenges faced by selectors.
Returning to the squad are nine players from the previous campaign, eager to contribute to the team’s success once more. The group includes Travis Wheller from Cardinia and Lucas Ligt from Devon Meadows, alongside Kooweerup's Chris Bright and Luke McMaster. Other key players include Cooper Pursell from Officer and Jason Williams from Pakenham, demonstrating the local strength within the team. New introductions to the squad, such as Yohan Arumadura and Trishane De Silva (both from Cardinia), aim to bring fresh talent and energy as they prepare for the tournament.
Pakenham leg-spinner Jordan Seers and Tooradin all-rounder Tyler Evans represent the promising future of local cricket as they join the squad, emphasizing the league's focus on nurturing young talent. “We’re excited about taking on the best,” O’Hare stated, highlighting the competitive spirit within the squad as they aim for glory.
Overall, these highlights from the Pakenham sports scene not only showcase the local talent and competitive spirit but also underline the importance of community engagement for both the Melbourne Storm and the CCCA. With activities continuing to draw fans and players alike, 2025 promises to be another exciting chapter for sports in the region.
