This pavilion will replace the one donated by the Anderson family in the 1970s and is named in honour of Mr Daniher, who is a former student of the college.
The Neale Daniher Community and Sporting Pavilion features a hall of excellence, change and visitor rooms, grandstand, and umpire spaces.
It also includes a multipurpose communal area, function centre seating 200 people, warm-up spaces, equipment storage facilities as well as having plaques telling Mr Daniher’s story.
Assumption College principal Kate Fogarty said the school was extremely proud to be joined by Mr Daniher.
“He is a great Victorian, role model and much-loved alumnus,” she said.
“The pavilion will forever cement the Daniher name in concrete as a famous former AFL player, coach and prominent motor neurone disease campaigner.
“Neale is a sporting legend and known also for his spirit and generosity amidst adversity.
“This is a premier facility in the greater Kilmore area, one that can be utilised by the community, local groups and service clubs.
“This space will be a testament to the commitment and community spirit of all those who have helped make Assumption what it is today.
“It is with thanks to the wonderful generosity of our community that construction of this new pavilion is under way.”
Mr Daniher thanked the college for the honour and said he was proud to be involved.
“This space will celebrate all that is wonderful and will be a magnificent place to gather,” he said.
“I had a fine education at Assumption. I learnt a lot in the classroom, and out of the classroom.
“But I have to admit, my most valuable life lessons were taught on the sporting fields of Kilmore.
“I learnt about teamwork, and how everyone brings something unique. I learnt to associate with something bigger than the individual.
“At Assumption College, I learnt about courage and I learned about care. To win humbly, and to lose with honour, and I learned about fun.
“When times are tough, they tend to go a bit smoother when you’ve got the support of your teammates.”
The Neale Daniher Sporting and Community pavilion is situated in the heart of the Assumption College precinct.
It will be a gathering place for all, will serve as a premier sports facility and form a key space for significant community occasions.
The building is anticipated to be opened in early 2022.
Donations to the Neale Daniher Sporting and Community pavilion can be made by visiting assumption.vic.edu.au
Donations are fully tax deductible.
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