The Fremantle Football Club proudly hosted its inaugural Partner Schools Cup Carnival on Wednesday 29 October, welcoming Year 10 boys’ and girls’ teams from Wanneroo Secondary College, Emmanuel College, and Comet Bay College for an unforgettable day of competition and community celebration. 

Held at the newly redeveloped Fremantle Football Club headquarters, the round-robin tournament saw each team face off in a series of fiercely contested matches, with students making the most of their bye rounds by touring the Club’s state-of-the-art facilities. 

The event drew enthusiastic support from special guests and Freo AFLW Stars Mim Strom, Georgie Brisbane, and Evie Parker, who presented students awards at the conclusion of the day.

This landmark year marked Wanneroo Secondary College’s official entry as a Fremantle Football Club Partner School, joining Emmanuel College and Comet Bay College to expand the Club’s commitment to grassroots football and youth development. 

Through these partnerships Fremantle’s Community Department aims to enhance physical education, boost AFL engagement, and offer unique talent identification and growth opportunities. 

Students benefit from access to professional players and coaches, while staff gain valuable coaching education and development. 

With the inaugural Partner Schools Cup on the line, each match showcased exceptional skill and heart.

Ultimately, it was Comet Bay College that claimed the double victory, taking home both the boys’ and girls’ titles. 

Every school also celebrated outstanding individuals through the Fremantle Anchor Awards, presented by the AFLW players to students who demonstrated the Club’s core values: Club First, Authenticity, Heart, Connection, and Best Self. 

Anchor Award Recipients 

• Wanneroo Secondary College: Arybella Nelson (Girls), Jaidon Haddrill (Boys) 
• Comet Bay College: Aleya Ribbans (Girls), Jai Patton (Boys) 
• Emmanuel College: Gracie-Lee Briggs (Girls), Peter Maisano (Boys) 

From the first bounce to the final siren, all matches were played with competitive spirit, camaraderie, and pride in representing each school. The event highlighted the strength and future of Specialist AFL Programs throughout the community. 

Specialist AFL Coordinator at Wanneroo Secondary College Tom Moscarda reflected on the day. 

"It was a great opportunity for our Specialist AFL students to continue footy through term 4 against the other partner schools and further develop their skills in the game at the elite facilities,” Moscarda said.

Fremantle Fans and Community Manager Mitch Harvey expressed the success of the day. 

"With Wanneroo Secondary College joining us this year, we were excited to host all three Partner Schools for the inaugural event,” Harvey said. 

“The level of play was exceptional, showcasing the incredible talent from all schools, which is a testament to their Specialist AFL programs. 

“We look forward to making this event a mainstay on the Partner Schools calendar." 

Fremantle Football Club extends congratulations to all participants, winners, and Anchor Award recipients, and thanks all the teachers, coaches, families, and special guests who contributed to the day’s success.