Alan Quaife doesn’t move too swiftly these days.
Years of football with Collingwood reserves and a handful of games with Fitzroy's seniors have taken their toll on his hips, knees and ankles.
But when it comes to drive and passion for helping disadvantaged people through football, Alan has few equals.
He put together a team from the streets of Frankston to play in Reclink’s Victorian league – a competition catering predominantly for players who have experienced disadvantage.
"This is how we started," he says.
"I walked the streets for 12-13 weeks like this."
Quaife says the first session in February yielded a humble response.
"We had more than 200 sausages, we had hamburgers, we had drinks, we had everything set up - and two players!"
But Quaife persevered, and with the help of Frankston's City Life he managed to identify more than enough players.
One such player, Sean Condie, who has experienced homelessness and addiction, says being involved in the team has given him a real boost.
"Brothership," he says. "We're friends. It means a hell of a lot to me it's like we bleed for each other. We are mates and we can talk about anything."
"I don't like talking about some things in my past," he adds. "But once I'm among my friends I can talk about these types of things."
The keen footballer is now a pivotal member of the Frankston Dolphins team, which contested the Reclink Grand Final today.
The Dolphins kicked away early but Odysee House rallied and had momentum as the game neared its finish.
But after a rousing address from its coach, the team surged to rake premiership glory.
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