The Monbulk Rangers women’s teams stood shoulder to shoulder with Skye United FC to honour Laa Chol before their Sunday clash.
The Skye player, 19, was killed during a dispute at a party in a Melbourne apartment on Saturday 21 July.
The minute’s silence before the match also honoured Monbulk coach, Anna Hopkins, who lost a battle with cancer four years ago.
Anna’s daughter Ruby led the senior women’s team onto the pitch for the Women’s State League Round 13 match.
Skye claimed a 1-0 win in the seniors while Monbulk took the honours in the reserves, 3-1.
Monbulk president Sam Knight paid tribute to Anna Hopkins as a hardworking, committed and valued member of the club and acknowledged the anguish of the Skye team losing Ms Chol.
“Our clubs are built on a strong team culture and community spirit – every member, whether they’re a player, a grounds keeper, a coach or a parent, works to make a difference and these two women will be remembered for their strong club spirit,” she said.
Monbulk has instigated the Anna Hopkins Perpetual Trophy which is awarded to an outstanding member of the club.
In other FFV competition on Sunday, Monbulk’s under-12 Raptors held onto their spot as ladder leaders with a thrilling 1-1 draw with Mooroolbark.
