They’re a powerful presence on the footy field, and now, Tom De Koning and Darcy Vescio are sharing what they’re passionate about off of it. The two Carlton players have signed on as ambassadors for Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme for the 2025 season.
Both Darcy and Tom have strong connections to community football and share our vision of helping community football clubs raise funds and protect the environment at the same time.
Having grown up loving football, Darcy was told at 14 years old that they were unable to continue playing competitively in the youth boys’ competition and had to sit on the sidelines for four years before joining the Darebin Falcons at age 18. This led to them being drafted as a marquee signing for the inaugural AFLW season in 2017.
Now Darcy has gone on to become one of the most recognisable and respected players in the competition, and wants to use their platform to make a positive difference at grassroots level.
“Growing up in the country, I’ve always had a real appreciation for nature. Something as simple as recycling drink containers can make a big difference to reducing litter in our communities,” Darcy said.
“As footy clubs expand with the growth of more women’s and girls’ teams, raising funds for facilities improvements and additional uniforms is crucial, with the money available to clubs through [this partnership] is a simple way to make a tangible impact on your local club and community.”
Tom grew up in a big family in Mount Martha on the Mornington Peninsula, where he spent as much time at the beach as he did kicking a footy around with his siblings.
Now close to reaching the milestone of 100 AFL games, he has developed a high profile amongst football fans and believes it is important to use his influence to make a positive difference in the world.
“I’m proud to be partnering with an initiative that connects community football to a cause that I care so deeply about – protecting the environment,” Tom said.
“It’s awesome to see how something as simple as recycling a drink container can help raise money for your local footy club.”
Head of AFL Victoria, Greg Madigan commended Tom, Darcy and Alexandra FNC on their efforts.
“It’s great to see [Tom and Darcy] using their positions of influence as elite athletes to give back to grassroots football and endorse a cause they are genuinely passionate about.”
Learn more:
- Sign your club up as a donation partner
- Read about Alexandra Football Netball Club’s fundraising
- Our partnership with AFL Victoria
