The Sydney Swans' Forward Flanker of the Century Tony Morwood and Vietnam Swans National President, Phil Johns

Yesterday, 25 July 2010, the Vietnam Swans travelled to the MCG: not for a match but a union/reunion.

The Sydney Swans invited us to their pre match function for past players and officials.

In addition, we invited the Vietnam Veterans, who had played footy in Vietnam during the war, and the Southern Dragons.

Representing the Vietnam Swans were Phil Johns, John Gourlay, Scott Beasley, Mark Williams, Drew Franklin, Will Martin, Paul Jones, Trish Franklin, Gary Shiells, Leigh Shiells, Peter Grave (and Matt), Ryan Jeffery, Damien Judd, Clint Murrell, Andrew Johns, Maureen Johns and Greg Keogh.

The Vietnam Veterans. Stan - Front middle.

The Vietnam Veterans (see website for the 2nd Advanced Ordnance Depot 1968-72) were led by Stan Middleton. In addition they had Neil Roberts (Brownlow Medalist), John Kilpatrick (Ex St Kilda Player, long time Hawthorn trainer), John Bell (AFL Timekeeper), George Soumilas, Peter Cotchett, Ken Mountford, Turk Fogarty, Neil Dalton and Charles Skillen.

Four Southern Dragons attended: Martin, Johnny, Glenn and Mitchell.

Swannies, Dragons and Bobby Skilton

Also floating around at the function was long time friend of the Vietnam Swans, triple Brownlow Medalist, Bobby Skilton.

Tony Morwood, the Sydney Swans Forward Flanker of the Century and General Manager for Melbourne and Canberra then interviewed both Phil Johns about the Swannies and Stan Middleton about their footy in Vietnam.

Lots of mingling. Lots of photos. Lots of fun.

The Vietnam Swans are keen to make this an annual event where the Vietnam Veterans, Southern Dragons and Vietnam Swans join a Sydney Swans pre match function.

Tony Morwood has said that, subject to the fixture and diary, the Sydney Swans would be “happy to have you guys attend another one of our functions next year”.

It was a terrific day and the Vietnam Swans thank the Sydney Swans very much. It was also incredibly important in developing our relationships with the Vietnam Veterans and Southern Dragons. It is also expected to give our swimming initiative a significant boost. More to follow on that story.

For more photos on the Swannies day at the MCG, check out our on line photo album.