Zoe Kennedy Tribute Match Scheduled for 5 July 2025

On Saturday 5 July, Bell Park’s Hamlyn oval will turn purple as the Zoe Kennedy Tribute Match returns, uniting two proud Geelong clubs for a heartfelt cause that hits close to home.

The annual match between Bell Park and Newtown & Chilwell honours Zoe Kennedy, a talented netballer, and vibrant 12-year-old whose life was tragically cut short by an asthma attack in 2020.

Now in its fourth year, the Tribute Match has become a powerful platform for asthma awareness in sport with a particular focus on young people. To date, the Zoe Kennedy Foundation has raised over $500,000, and proudly supported the PhD Research Dr. Ryan Mackle, whose work is reshaping how asthma is understood and managed—especially in young people and rural communities.

“Zoe would want everyone—especially young people—to know there’s no shame in having asthma,” says her dad, Lach Kennedy.
“The Tribute Match is an important day where we realise how truly common Asthma is, you don’t have to hide your puffer from your mates.”

This year’s match promises a full day of netball and football, food trucks, face painting, live music and kids’ activities—with a major drawcard being the ZKF Raffle, offering over $3,500 in prizes:

• $2,000 Red Balloon Experience Voucher

• $1,000 Bunnings BBQ + Outdoor Furniture Pack

• $500 About Time Spa Voucher - Torquay

• $500 Rebel Sport Gift Card

• $250 Jack Rabbit on the Bellarine Voucher

• $200 Winepress Wine Voucher

• $100 Felix Dining Voucher

Also launching in 2025 is a limited run of exclusive Zoe Kennedy Foundation merchandise, designed in collaboration with streetwear label Nowear Supply. The range features bold, unisex designs that centre asthma awareness and community strength. Available only at the game, until sold out:

• Hoodies: $75

• T-Shirts: $40

• Beanies: $30

• Caps: $25

• Totes: $25

“Zoe loved her sport and her mates. She’d be so proud to see young people wearing this gear and standing up for each other,” says Kennedy.

It’s not just a hoodie—it’s a message that says, ‘Asthma is serious - and we’ve got your back.’

EVENT SCHEDULE: SATURDAY 5 JULY 2025
Location: Bell Park Home Ground, 34–70 Calvert Street, Hamlyn Heights VIC 3215

• 8:00am: Netball Games Commence

• 10:00am: Football (16s, 18s, Reserves)

• 1:30pm: Netball Presentations

• 2:30pm: Seniors Football (Bell Park vs. Newtown & Chilwell) + Food Trucks

• 6:00pm: Trophy Presentation, Raffle Draw, Live Band

  Together, we’re making asthma awareness louder, prouder—and potentially lifesaving.