He is the latest player to be identified as part of the Club’s Fitzroy player sponsorship program - an initiative introduced last year by long-time Fitzroy and Brisbane Lions supporter Peter Hille and the Reds Foundation with an aim to raise much-needed funds for the local club.
Hudson-Bevege, who has previously been sponsored by the Rotary Club of Fitzroy in 2010 and 2011, replaces journeyman Patrick O’Connor as the Lions’ 2012 sponsored player.
The recently-turned 20 year-old is a true ‘Royboy’ after spending a couple of seasons with the Fitzroy juniors, before working his way up to the U19s side, and now eventually graduating to the senior team this year. He has also spent the past two seasons doing extra fitness and recovery sessions as a dedicated member of the Reds Foundation Development Squad.
In 2010, he played a key role in Fitzroy’s U19 Premiership which elevated them into the Premier Division (where they remain), and was promptly made Vice-Captain the following year.
The running half-forward’s ability during his final season at U19 level was such that he was called upon to play seniors on four occasions. Now he finds himself a permanent member of that side.
Only last week, Toby was named among the best players in Fitzroy’s Round 4 VAFA win over Banyule, despite being substituted just after half-time due to concussion.
Hudson-Bevege was thrilled to hear the news of his sponsorship from the Brisbane Lions.
“I’m really excited and proud to be sponsored by an AFL club that is still so tightly connected to Fitzroy,” he said.
“It’s always a great feeling to wear the Fitzroy jumper on Brunswick Street Oval, given the rich history behind the club.”
“The fans who head out to the games are fantastic as well. I see the same faces week-in week-out, with many taking the time to shake your hand and get to know you.”
With no AFL football scheduled in Melbourne this Saturday afternoon, Victorian-based Lions fans are encouraged to head down to the Brunswick Street Oval at 2pm to watch Toby - and his team-mates - play Mazenod in Round 5 of the VAFA Premier C Division.
Fitzroy FC are currently in 6th place on the ladder with two wins from four matches, and will be hoping to push towards the top four this Saturday’s when they face 9th placed Mazenod, who are fresh from a strong win over PEGS.
The season might still be early, but Hudson-Bevege said he and the team have some pretty clear goals for 2012.
“My main goal for the season is to simply maintain my spot in the senior side, and to do everything I can to help the team make, and have an impact in, the Finals.”
“We only narrowly missed out last year, but have recruited well over the off-season and are hoping to be in the top four come September.”
For more information about Toby, or this Saturday’s match at the Brunswick Street Oval, please visit www.fitzroyfc.com.au
The Brisbane Lions will be further acknowledging their rich history on Saturday 23 June when the Club hosts its inaugural Hall of Fame at Melbourne’s Crown Palladium.
CLICK HERE for further information and booking details.
But be sure to get in early, because tickets are likely to sell out!
