Wednesday, 19 February 2025

 Matt FREGON (Ashwood) (09:37): I rise today to acknowledge the inaugural Will Taylor Memorial Cup. Will Taylor lost his life last year, as we all know, in a senseless tragedy in our district of Ashwood, but on Saturday 8 February his family and the local clubs that he played for came together for an event that brought our community together to celebrate his life and honour and remember his legacy and his involvement with community sport.

Will was passionate about soccer, playing with both the Ashburton United Soccer Club and the Mount Waverley City Soccer Club. This event was a fitting tribute to his memory, showcasing the spirit of the game he loved and the incredible impact he had on those around him. It not only celebrated Will’s love for the game but also raised crucial funds for Team Sports 4 All, who help to support children from financially disadvantaged backgrounds so they too can experience the joy and benefits of playing team sports, just like Will.

I would like to thank Nick, Denise and Anthony Taylor for allowing us all in the community to be a part of such a special day which created a legacy and which may be the only possible positive aspect of the senseless tragedy last year. To the players, coaches and supporters from both clubs who came together in the spirit of committee sport, we thank you. The community got together as one.