In a scene that could have been lifted straight from an action movie, an AFL legend found himself in an unexpected footrace at a shopping centre.

The former football star, known for his prowess on the field, demonstrated that his reflexes and sense of justice were as sharp as ever when he encountered a shoplifter in the act.


The incident unfolded at Northland Shopping Centre in Melbourne, where AFL legend Saverio Rocca, now 51, witnessed a brazen thief attempting to make a getaway with stolen goods.

Without hesitation, Rocca confronted the individual, ‘I approached the guy and said, “You shouldn't be doing that…give the stuff back,”’ he recounted.

‘He had one look back at me and then took off.’


Despite the years that have passed since his days of sprinting on the footy field, Rocca's determination was undiminished.

The pursuit ended when the shoplifter, perhaps intimidated by Rocca's imposing figure or realising the futility of escaping an AFL legend, dropped the stolen items.

The goods were promptly returned to the store, much to the relief of the staff.


Witness Danny Reddon was among those who watched the drama unfold, expressing his surprise at seeing Rocca's off-field heroics.

‘He's a big guy…I said, “That's Sav Rocca,”’ Reddon recalled.

‘He took the clothes back, and I said, “Well done, Sav,” and he said, “If he kept running, I would have got him.”’

Rocca had some humorous remarks as he shared his story.

‘It felt like about 3 kilometres, but it was probably only about 50 metres,’ he joked.

‘I felt like I was flying like I was back in the old days, but I wouldn't have been moving very quick at all.’


For his act of bravery and community spirit, Rocca was offered a 40 per cent discount by the grateful store—a gesture he appreciated but did not expect.

He maintains that his days of professional running are over.

‘The running on the footy field is long gone…that's the quickest I've run since the footy field,’ he said.

Saverio Rocca's name is etched in AFL history, having kicked 758 goals in over 250 games with Collingwood and North Melbourne during the 1990s and 2000s.

His transition to American football as a punter with Washington and the Philadelphia Eagles further showcased his athletic versatility.


The heroic actions of Saverio Rocca at a Melbourne shopping centre have brought a sense of community and vigilance to the forefront.

In a different but equally compelling story, another former AFL star, Garry Lyon, has opened up about his battle with serious health issues, sparking a wave of support and raising awareness about the importance of health and well-being within the community.

Both stories highlight the impact that prominent figures can have on public awareness and community spirit.
To our readers at the Seniors Discount Club, we'd love to hear your thoughts on this story. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you had to act quickly to prevent wrongdoing? Share your experiences in the comments below, and let's celebrate the everyday heroes among us.