Cameron and Straford stand-down at SKOB

The SKOB Saints are on the lookout for new captains for the first time since 2017 with Sarah Cameron and Sophie Straford announcing to the playing group this week that they’re both stepping down, and pursuing new ventures in 2023.

Straford, a foundation player with the Saints is making the move over to the UK. While, Cameron the VAFA’s elite goal-kicking machine is taking the step up to VFLW this season, playing with Williamstown.

Both girls have shared many highs with the VAFA’s most dominant Women’s club, that includes back-to-back William Buck Premier titles in 2019 and 2022.

Coach Tom Purcell has told the St Kevin’s website, “Few players have given so much to the SKOBFC as Sophie and Sarah. Selfless and infectious with their love for their mates and the green, gold and blue.”

For Cameron, who kicked 136 goals from her 63 games in the blue, green and gold has the opportunity to take her football career to the next level this season,

Will never forget the opportunity she was afforded by joining the team at T H King “The Saints have been one of the most important parts of my life for the last 3 years and I’m so grateful for the honour I had in leading such an incredible group of women. The success we had in 2022; 3 grand finals and 2 premierships, is something I’ll forever be proud of.” Cameron said.

Straford has been with the club from day one, playing 67 games, feeling like she was right at home from the opening night of training in 2016 “the Saints have been family since 2016. Riding the most incredible highs and tough lows with family has been everything.” she told the SKOB website.

The reigning Premiers have big shoes to fill in William Buck Premier Women’s, with the season kicking off for SKOB against Caulfield on Saturday, April 15. A replay of the 2022 Preliminary Final. For coach Tom Purcell, he’ll be hoping for a repeat performance of that day, although he will need someone else to toss the coin and relay the message to the troops to kickstart the campaign of a potential SKOB three-peat.

The VAFA congratulates both Sophie Straford and Sarah Cameron on terrific careers at SKOB, and wishes them well on their individual ventures in 2023.

Read more about the decision from both Straford and Cameron at the St Kevin’s official website, here.

Photo: SKOBFC