IT was a reunion of sorts on Sunday with current Heywood coach and former Collingwood player, Leon Davis, watching on from the sidelines, as Eddie Betts plied his trade for the Saints in the South West District Football Netball League (SWDFNL).

The pair both played football at the highest level with Davis transitioning to the SWDFNL more than four years ago.

The former Magpies small forward said it meant a lot to so many people to see a player like Betts come to the south-west and play a game.

“For Branxholme-Wallacedale, we have known the struggles they have had and they have put a lot of work into putting a strong team out on the park,” he said.

“It is one reason why I came out and brought some of the Heywood boys with me, to support Branxholme-Wallacedale in what they’re doing, to support Eddie and to support the game.

“Playing against Branxholme the past few years, it is great for them to get Eddie down here and it is great to see so many people here in support.”

Davis played the majority of his football up forward but had stints in defence and even matched up on Betts in the AFL.

He said the boost the community would get was important after seeing first-hand how tough the past two years have been for the league.

“As much as footy is a way of life, it is just a ritual and I coach Under-11s at the moment, they look forward to training and games,” he said.

“The past few years have also taught people that there is more to life than just footy, but at the same time it is about appreciating the club feeling.

“Knowing Eddie personally, it is something he is very proud of and giving back to footy and it is good to see him down here.”

The two former AFL players caught up for a chat post game, with Davis cheering Betts from the sidelines.

“I popped into the changerooms before the game and said g’day, to let him know I appreciate him coming down and play in this competition, it is something I do each week and for him to come down and draw a crowd, it is a great initiative,” he said.

“I know a lot of people will go away from here and they won’t forget it for a while.”