Love is in the air for Australian football stars! 🥳
Carlton's very own Blake Acres has tied the knot with his beloved Steph McIntyre, who was affectionately referred to as his 'angel bride' by friends and family. This romantic celebration might just be the final wedding of the football off-season, marking a beautiful end to a series of nuptials.
The couple, already parents to their one-year-old son Hugo, enjoyed a picture-perfect day surrounded by loved ones. They posed for heartwarming family photos in the city gardens, capturing precious memories with their son, friends, and fellow athletes.
The guest list included some big names in football, such as Blues captain Patrick Cripps, Mitch McGovern, Zac Williams, and Sam Docherty. Sam's wife, Nat, shared a touching photo, emphasizing the angelic beauty of the bride.
This wedding follows a string of recent marriages among football players. Just a few weeks ago, former Essendon captain Zach Merrett exchanged vows with his long-time love, Alexandra, at a lavish Melbourne venue. And Essendon players have been particularly busy on the love front, with Andrew McGrath, Kyle Langford, Mason Redman, and Peter Wright also recently saying 'I do'.
But here's where it gets interesting: several other clubs have also witnessed their fair share of off-season weddings. Hawthorn ruckman Lloyd Meek and Bulldogs star Tim English both took the plunge earlier this year, and a handful of other players from various teams have also walked down the aisle. And this is the part most people miss—it's not just about the weddings, but the love and commitment these athletes are celebrating.
Among the newlyweds are Bulldogs stars Marcus Bontempelli, who had a destination wedding in California, Rory Lobb, and Bailey Dale; Carlton's Nic Newman; Melbourne's Jack Steele; Port Adelaide's Corey Durdin; Fremantle's Andy Brayshaw and Caleb Serong; Sydney's Tom Papley; and Brisbane's Bruce Reville. What a romantic way to start the new football season!
As the football community celebrates these joyous occasions, it's a reminder that these athletes are more than just sports stars; they're also partners, husbands, and fathers. So, while we eagerly await the kick-off of the new season, let's also raise a toast to the love stories that have captivated the football world. 🍾
What do you think about these off-season weddings? Are they a welcome distraction from the intense world of sports, or do they add an unnecessary layer of media attention? Share your thoughts below, and let's discuss the intersection of sports and personal lives!
