Foster Webb Shield brings out the old rivalry
One of the great modern Territory footy rivalries will be played out this weekend when South and Pioneer battle it out for the Foster Webb Shield at TIO Traeger Park on Saturday.
Now in its 14th year, the Foster Webb Shield honours two club greats in Eagles star Robbie Foster and Souths legend Harold Webb.
Current Pioneer coach Danny Measures was at the helm in 2007-08 when the concept started and is thrilled to be back in charge for the clash.
“Like many others, I had the privilege of playing with and against these champions over many years and its an enormous feeling of pride to honour these past players,” Measures said.
“Back in 2007, I discussed and sought approval with the respective families to have a shield named in honour of these two footballers which would be a celebration to commemorate their great achievements whilst playing at their respective clubs.
“The Foster and Webb families supported the concept which has since grown in stature, providing each club the opportunity to come together and play for the shield annually.”
South coach Darren Talbot will be aiming for back-to-back Foster Webb Shield glory after the Roos came away victorious the last time the clubs met for the Shield.
But even though Measures knows that his club, Pioneer has overall bragging rights with a 10-4 record in Shield clashes, the fixture is about something much more than footy rivalry.
“It provides an opportunity for family members who are not playing AFL to continue to play a role and celebrate their family members achievements,” Measures said.
“The feedback from the family is very positive, they’re very proud to represent their families when presenting the best player medals or just being in attendance at the match.
“Without the shield, these great players would perhaps be forgotten about and archived.”
The Foster Webb Shield between Pioneer and South gets underway on Saturday at TIO Traeger Park at 3pm.
