Bullldogs power forward Tom Boyd joined AFL General Manager Football Operations Mark Evans in launching the 2015 NAB Challenge, ahead of the Bulldogs clash with Richmond on Saturday 28 February at Victoria University Whitten Oval.
Evans said the Bulldogs’ opening match would be one of the highlights of the pre-season competition with the return to suburban football.
“(I’m) looking forward to the Whitten Oval game and seeing the Western Bulldogs and Richmond supporters and members cram into that, as if it was a throwback to the 60s and 70s.”
Evans urged fans that were yet to secure a seat to do so, with large crowds expected to flock to VU Whitten Oval for the first official AFL match since 1997.
“My advice to those Richmond and Western Bulldogs members is that I think they should upgrade and get themselves a reserved ticket for the sale of a few dollars rather than to miss out.”
Boyd said the players were looking forward to bringing football back to the community.
“We’re looking forward to our first full game this week at Whitten Oval.
“I’m really excited to get out in front of such a strong fan base that’s been around this club for so many years. We’re looking to build something exciting for them and put on a good show this Saturday.”
Boyd was also joined by St Kilda’s 2014 number one draft pick Paddy McCartin and former Kangaroo, now Collingwood, midfielder Levi Greenwood to help launch the pre-season series at AFL House.
First bounce at Victoria University Whitten Oval will be 4:40pm on Saturday, with gates open from 3:00pm.
Download the Western Bulldogs 2015 NAB Challenge fixture here.
