St Kilda Football Club, in partnership with the Danny Frawley Centre and AIA, is thrilled to announce that Spud’s Game will return in 2024 - this time on the biggest stage in football.

The Saints will host reigning premiers Collingwood at the MCG in Round 2 for the Thursday night blockbuster, with the hopes of raising much-needed funds to further the work and legacy left behind by the late St Kilda champion.

“As a whole club we couldn’t be prouder to once again host this game and continue Danny’s legacy,” St Kilda Acting Chief Executive Officer Carl Dilena said.

“It doesn’t get much bigger than playing the Pies at the ‘G under lights, which is definitely the level of respect and attention Spud’s Game deserves.

Chelsea Frawley, Danny’s eldest daughter and Head of Community and Operations at DFC Community Ltd, said she was deeply appreciative for all the opportunities Spud’s Game affords the Centre.

“We are incredibly grateful to have this platform to help us build upon the work we’ve been doing for the past three years,” Frawley said.

“Last year DFC Community Ltd became an official charity to take over the Club’s mental fitness programs.  As a separate entity and registered charity, it’s easier than ever for donors to financially contribute to the work we do at the centre to prevent mental illness.

“Funds raised through Spud’s Game go directly to investing in our mental fitness programs and services. We’ve seen the real impact we’re having in the community and are so grateful for the opportunity to expand this even further thanks to the generosity of others.”  

The physical embodiment of Spud’s legacy, the Danny Frawley Centre, which also houses a public gym and pool run by the Club, has become a cornerstone of the community since opening in 2022, catering to the physical and mental health needs of all who have walked through its doors. 

Excitingly, the announcement of this year’s Spud’s Game coincides with the official launch of the Club’s partnership with the Institute of Social Neuroscience (ISN).

Staffed by provisional psychologists undergoing their initial placement as part of their Master's or Doctoral degree program at ISN, a newly established clinic housed in the Danny Frawley Centre focuses on delivering top-tier, evidence-based interventions. 

The ISN clinic and programs, which aim to cater for early intervention (including mental health illnesses such as depression and anxiety) and preventative mental health needs, will allow services to be provided at low to no-cost for the community, while also addressing the nation-wide psychologist shortage.

The ISN partnership will strongly support and complement to work of DFC Community Ltd and the parties will work together on program development and research. Registered psychologists will also be on-site to oversee the program, with these psychologists available to the public via a referral from a doctor or private booking.

“ISN psychology services at the DFC are for everyone. ISN Clinic's partnership with the Danny Frawley Centre will look to break down the financial barriers to mental health support, which is crucial given not only the shortage of psychologists but also the current cost of living crisis," ISN Chief Executive Officer Dr Tony Paolini said.

The program will be overseen by registered psychologist, Dr Tony Glynn. Dr Glynn is also an accredited AFLPA psychologist, meaning players from across the league will be able to utilise his services at the Danny Frawley Centre.

Spud’s Game is made possible thanks to the support of many generous stakeholders, in particular long-term sponsor and this year’s Match Day Partner, AIA.

CEO of AIA Australia, Damien Mu said the insurer is proud to have supported Spud’s Game for the past three years in addition to ongoing partnerships with both the St Kilda and Collingwood football clubs.

“We’ve been working closely with the Saints to pay tribute to Danny Frawley and uphold his legacy via our involvement on initiatives like Spud’s Game and our partnership of the Danny Frawley Centre.

“At AIA, we’re passionate about helping Australians live healthier, longer, better lives. Mental health is a huge part of being healthy and events like Spud’s Game are a great way to raise awareness, reduce the stigma, and help foster social connection among people.”

To learn more about the ISN Clinic at the Danny Frawley Centre, visit dannyfrawleycentre.com.au.

To secure your seat at Spud’s Game, call 03 9967 4388 or visit saintsmembership.com.au today.