AFL Player Liam Stocker Visits Arcare Balnarring Residents

To kick off the AFL season, the Arcare Balnarring community were recently treated to a visit from AFL Carlton player, Liam Stocker. The Carlton defender kindly volunteered to do a meet and greet with the Arcare Balnarring residents, after his grandfather, Alfred moved into the aged care residence in February.

“There was a buzz around the residence for the week leading up to Liam’s visit. The ladies spent a day making a welcome sign for him, and then another afternoon bouncing from each other’s suites, trying to coordinate their white and blue outfits for the day.” Arcare Balnarring Lifestyle Co-ordinator, Gail said.

The excited residents came prepared to the meet and greet, asking insightful questions about Liam’s draft to Carlton, his various injuries, personal life, and career highlights.

86-year-old Alfred beamed as he listened to his grandson speak to about his career, and although Alfred is an avid Geelong supporter, he came proudly dressed in a Carlton shirt to show his support.

It didn’t take long for Liam to win over a community of new fans, spending the morning with the residents, telling stories, posing for photos, and signing their various memorabilia.

Passionate football fan and Arcare Balnarring resident, Edna said, “Although I barrack for Hawthorn, I love watching any game of footy. It’s wonderful to be able to get up and close and personal to the game, and it’s been so special to listen to Liam talk about his experiences.”

Ahead of the upcoming 2022 football season, Arcare Balnarring has sponsored an EyeGuide at the local Balnarring Junior Football Club. The EyeGuide technology will help assess brain health and detect potential concussion injuries in over 265 junior football players, with a simple, fast, and non-invasive eye test.

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