Balfours and South Adelaide announce the 2023 recipients of the Balfours Scholarship for aspiring footballers.

2022 Mark Naley Medallist Blake Rodrigues (Yankalilla FC) and senior Women’s squad member Alissa Brook (Victor Harbor FC) were recently announced as the 2023 Balfour Scholarship recipients.

The initiative between the Panthers and Platinum Partner Balfours was launched for the 2021 season with Jason Horne-Francis and Gypsy Schirmer the inaugural recipients of the scholarship. 

The Balfours Scholarship, to the value of $5000, will greatly assist the two footballers from the zone with the financial assistance to support their physical preparation for the season with areas such as strength and conditioning, medical and physio, on-field equipment (boots, runners etc) and any technology needs that might aid their development.

Announced at the Knuckey Cup and Women’s B&F night Blake and Alissa were presented with the scholarship by David Crotti of San Remo/Balfours.

"We're extremely grateful to David Crotti and Balfours for their continuing support." Said South Adelaide CEO Neill Sharpe 

"David is very strong on the need for South Adelaide to develop young footballers from its community."

"This is a significant initiative that is having a positive impact for these young people and their families.

"These scholarships will greatly assist Blake and Alissa prepare the best they can for next season, and significantly help with their football journey."

Balfours is Australia's oldest baked goods manufacturer having been established by James Calder and Margaret Balfours in Rundle Mall, 1853.

Today, Balfours manufactures and distributes sweets and savouries to all parts of Australia exclusively from its oven door in Dudley Park, South Australia.

Balfours is proudly South Australian family-owned and operated.

Balfours Scholarship Recipients

2021 Jason Horne-Francis (AFL No. 1 Draft selection 2021), Gypsy Schirmer (SAFC Women’s B&F winner 2022)

2022 Will Verrall, Brooke Boileau

2023 Blake Rodrigues, Alissa Brook