Every great football story starts with a dedicated local club and a passionate family, and the Guthrie’s are no exception.
Ahead of the Country Game this weekend, Cameron and Zach Guthrie reminisced on their junior football days at the Sunbury Football Club.
The Guthrie’s returned to where it all started earlier this week and credited the Sunbury Lions, and their family for helping them develop a passion for the game.
Growing up in a football-oriented family, Cameron and Zach along with their two brothers, played their junior footy at Sunbury and started their journey to the top level with the Lions.
"We were a very footy-heavy family,” Zach Guthrie said.
“It was something that we all loved, we love watching it on TV and then going out in the backyard and trying to emulate what he had just watched.
“That sort of sparked the passion, then it is something that you want to keep improving on.
“Mum and Dad have always been our biggest supporters, we are really lucky to have that.
“They thoroughly enjoy being able to follow us as individuals, and following the team is a passion of theirs.
“It is great to be able to share that with them, we are really lucky to have them in our corner."
The Guthrie brothers are at different stages of their AFL journey, but both have turned into players who will leave a lasting legacy at Geelong.
Cameron discussed the importance of local football not just from a development aspect, but also as a chance to bring people closer to one another.
"Footy is a game that brings people together,” Cam said.
“Thinking about the number of people who make junior and local footy happen, you probably don't recognise it at the time.
“Volunteers give up their time, now you look back and I am really thankful, there are so many good memories.
"Footy brought us together as brothers, and then it has the power to bring together friends and families as well."
Cam has played 240 games across 14 seasons with the Cats, while Zach is slightly newer in the system playing 91 games since debuting in 2017.
The pair shared the ultimate moment in 2022 when they were both part of Geelong’s Premiership-winning team.
Saturday’s game against the Bombers recognises the impact of regional clubs on the game of Australian Football, as part of the traditional Country Game.
The Sunbury Lions logo will be featured on Saturday night on Zach Guthrie and Mark Blicavs’ guernsey, with all other players' local clubs represented on their respective guernsey.
Secure your ticket to the 2024 Country Game today at ticketek.com.au
