Patrick’s kicking goals in SANFL Blind and Low Vision League

By ZAC MILBANK

Patrick Tilley has quickly become accustomed to kicking goals on and off the field.

An incredibly positive character, the 13-year-old has displayed plenty of resilience and dedication whilst thriving in the SANFL Blind and Low Vision League, supported by Guide Dogs SA/NT.

Making the four-hour round trip from Booborowie in the State’s mid-north just to line up with his beloved ”White Stars” Team, Patrick played a key role in his team’s undefeated season in 2026.

But it wasn’t until this week that the White Stars forward was presented with his premiership medallion, by one of his heroes in Crows star Izak Rankine.

It was a fitting reward for Patrick, who also got to experience the atmoshpere of being amongst his favourite players training at Adelaide Oval ahead of Thursday night’s clash with Collingwood.

”I had a very successful season, we won every single game because we kicked straight.” said Patrick, who catches the bus each day to attend Clare High School.

As a toddler, Patrick was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis after tumours were discovered on his optic nerves.

It resulted in him undergoing a 14-month course of chemotherapy, which involved consistent travel to and from Adelaide for treatment.

The chemotherapy prevented Patrick’s tumours from developing, however, it led to his eventual loss of vision. His Neurofibromatosis condition is an ongoing issue as he endures frequent testing to monitor the return of any tumours in his brain or spine.

That’s why the SANFL Blind and Low Vision League has played such an important role in providing Patrick with his platform to shine.

”It gives me a chance to come and play football like my friends and have fun,” Patrick said.

”I love to play at full forward. You don’t have to run as much and you get to kick goals as well.”

The SANFL BLV League has been supported through a grant from the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing’s Collaboration Grants Program.