Former AFL talent Cam Ellis-Yolmen made a surprise one-off appearance for Katandra in a convincing 78-point win over Berrigan on Saturday.
On a day filled with emotion, as Katandra paid respect to Clayton Simpson and Merv Opie, the Kats gave their supporters a memorable win and their two former senior football players a touching and classy tribute.
Ellis-Yolmen, who played 48 games for Adelaide and Brisbane Lions, showcased why he made it to the elite level with two goals and a truckload of possessions through the midfield.
And while the ex-AFL gun wowed onlookers with his talents, some recruits and emerging talents provided supporters with highlights in the 15.19 (109) to 5.1 (31) win.
Star recruit Seb Fernandez booted five goals on debut, while Luke Moroney and Mitch McGrath were solid contributors on a sunny day at Katandra Recreation Reserve in round one Picola District Football League action.
Katandra coach Jason Whittaker was over the moon to tick off his first game in charge with a win and to see his players take to the new game style.
Although Berrigan booted the opening goal of the match, he was pleased that his side was able to dominate proceedings with 34 scoring shots to six.
“The most pleasing thing I made point of after the game was that you could see them (the players) try and implement some of the things we’ve worked on over the past five months,” Whittaker said.
The appearance from Ellis-Yolmen came as a shock to many outside of Katandra’s four walls.
Whittaker revealed the 30-year-old’s close connection with senior talent Luke Smith helped bring him into the side for his one-off match.
Ellis-Yolmen provided some extra muscle, intensity and direction around the contest.
“It was really good to have him around. We threw him on the ball and he provided a bit of guidance and support to our younger players,” Whittaker said.
“He didn’t try to do anything above and beyond; he was really engaged with our structure and he bought into everything we were trying to do.
“He got around the group and they got around him and it was a terrific opportunity for our players — it was really good value.
“You could definitely see he spent time in the system.
“He kicked a couple of goals and provided plenty of opportunities for everyone else.
“We were really happy with everyone else’s input. We didn’t go into the game having all of our eggs in the one basket, so as much as a role as he played he wasn’t the difference by any means.”
Club pays respects to former players
It was an emotional day for all involved at the Kats.
The club honoured and paid tribute to its two former players in Simpson and Opie, who died last month.
Katandra and Berrigan A-grade netballers and senior footballers lined-up together for a ceremony prior to the start of those matches.
Opie, a life member at Katandra, played in multiple premierships, made more than 200 appearances as a player and was a tireless volunteer.
Simpson featured 28 times at senior level since his debut in 2021 and was a key pillar of the club’s run to finals last season.
Whittaker said everyone was touched by the proceedings that took place as two much-loved club members were remembered.
“We had a ceremony and came together as a club and community before the game,” he said.
“Well done to Berrigan for the respect they showed with their footballers and netballers lining up along with us. It was really good support.
“The club president retired the number 34, which was Clayton’s playing number, it won’t be worn ever again. There’s a photo tribute on the changeroom exit door as well.
“It was a really touching and moving moment, it was warranted and it was well done by the club and community.”
The second round of Picola District Football League kicks off before the weekend with Rennie and Tungamah to meet on Thursday night.