David’s legacy: Premiership glory and community heart
06/01/2026
For decades, Sandringham Football Club has been more than just a football team; it has been the heartbeat of its community, a gathering place for friendship, a crucible where legends are forged, and a home where families make memories that last for generations.
Sitting down with one of Sandringham’s most devoted supporters, David Smith, his connection to the club stretches back more than a century, beginning with his grandfather, Harry Smith, a lieutenant in the First World War.
“He brought me down here when I was just four,” Smith recalled. Harry, who had been shot three times during the war at Gallipoli, France and Belgium, made sure young David knew the Sandringham ground and the life of the club. Earlier, he would bring David’s mother, Joan, down to the club in 1932 when she was six.
“The Club had only been going for three years. So, you could say our family grew up alongside Sandringham,” Smith said.
“It was a real family affair. The ground was packed with people, and the atmosphere was just electric. That’s where my love for Sandringham began.”
It quickly became clear that the Club is about far more than premierships; it is a story of triumph, loyalty, and a lifelong love for football that transcends the scoreboard.
Smith’s eyes light up when he recalls the mid-2000s, the golden era when the Zebras achieved what many could only dream of: a three-peat across 2004, 2005 and 2006.
“We had an incredible team. Chad Liddell, our triple premiership captain, David MacGeorge and so many others,” he said.
“Premierships are hard, really hard, but with this team, it almost felt magical.” He chuckled softly, and it’s clear the weight of those victories still lingered.
His anecdotes are full of vivid personalities and moments frozen in time.
But Sandringham has always been about more than trophies. For Smith, the Club is a lifelong commitment, a circle of community and shared passion. “I owe Sandringham everything,” he said.
“I donate and volunteer because the Club has given me so much joy. It’s not just premierships; it’s camaraderie, friendships and the people you meet along the way. Even small gestures, like contributing to a fundraising event, feel like a way of giving back for all the happiness the Club has given me.”
This sense of loyalty extends to the Club’s identity itself. Over decades, Sandringham has navigated league changes, AFL affiliations and even threats to its independence.
“We’ve been standalone for most of our history. That’s something we’re proud of,” Smith said.
Aligning with Melbourne brought success on the field with four flags, but Smith said the club never lost its character or roots: “We’ve seen other clubs fold, merge or become fully aligned with AFL teams but Sandringham has stayed true to its roots, and the community loves it for that.”
Pouring over dusty scrapbooks, vintage match programs and newspaper clippings, the history of the Zebras comes alive through Smith’s stories. He recalls Sundays in the 1960s, 70s and 80s when VFA matches drew crowds hungry for football.
“People would watch a VFL team on Saturday and then come to the VFA side on Sunday. The community was alive with football,” Smith said.
Handwritten vote sheets for players, old club songs and newspaper reports capture a rich tapestry of memories that link generations of supporters.
His love for the Club is recognised by all who know him. His dedication was honoured when Sandringham FC President Nick Johnstone asked him to become Patron of the exclusive ‘Club 1929’.
“I was honoured,” Smith said. “It’s about giving back and staying connected to the place that has given me so much joy. That’s what being part of Sandringham is all about.
His affection for the game itself is equally deep. He fondly remembers players past and present like Chad Liddell, Shane ‘Axel’ Foley and David MacGeorge, and their impact on the field. He recalls the heartbreak of close losses, the thrill of exacting revenge over Port Melbourne and the unforgettable energy of packed stands at home matches.
“Premierships are amazing, but it’s the friendships, the camaraderie, and the community that make it priceless,” Smith said.
His passion doesn’t stop with the men’s team. He follows the women’s side closely, celebrating their achievements and applauding their grit.
“They made finals this year for the first time [in Zebras colours] and they played brilliantly,” Smith said. “They’re stars, absolute stars.”
When asked what message he would share with future generations of supporters, Smith’s answer is simple but powerful:
“Support your local club. So many volunteers work tirelessly to keep Sandringham strong. Be proud, be involved and cherish the community this club represents. Football is about belonging, legacy and the joy of being part of something bigger than yourself.”
Smith’s story is a living testament to what makes Sandringham more than just a club. It’s about passion, loyalty, history and heart - a place where memories are made, friendships flourish and the love of the game endures. For David Smith, Sandringham Football Club is all that and more, and through him, its legacy continues to inspire generations.
Written by Casey McGuire - Sandringham FC Media
Images supplied by David Smith