Brian Gleeson is a legend of St Kilda Football Club.

One of just eight Saints to win the Brownlow Medal, Brian had a 70-game career across five years, booting 47 goals and eventually being appointed as captain in 1958.

However, a cruel knee injury in the pre-season would prematurely put an end to his promising career at just 23 years old.

Now, 64 years on, Brian still cheers on the Saints from his home in Kingston Green Retirement Village.

Thanks to Pepper Money's Real Life Fund, the 1957 Brownlow Medallist was visited by Max King and Matthew Allison, who dons the same No. 30 that Brian used to wear, to provide brand new bowling mats for the residence.

“I think those who live here feel privileged to have met both Matt and Max today. I know I certainly am. I have so much respect for those boys,” Brian said.

“It was fantastic to see them and have them down to visit everyone and say hello.”

Both Max and Matt were also treated to a special surprise when Brian unveiled his famed Brownlow Medal.

“It was pretty special to see that, I think he is pretty proud of it, so much so that he wears it around,” said Max, who is a Pepper Money ambassador.

“It is always great to meet past players, and especially one as decorated as Brian. It has been a really enjoyable afternoon.

“It is an awesome initiative from Pepper Money to provide this funding, and we’ve loved meeting everyone. Seeing the smile on people’s faces, it reminds us of the positive impact we can have as a footy club.”

In 2022, Pepper Money and St Kilda Football Club teamed up to launch the Real Life Fund, an initiative to provide community groups and individuals with the funds they need to get back to doing what they do best: bringing people together and helping them succeed. Learn more about the fund here.