Troy Selwood funeral: Geelong Grammar principal Rebecca Cody shares Selwood’s significant influence on students

Troy Selwood nurtured some big names during his time at Geelong Grammar — including No.1 pick Sam Lalor. But they don’t tell the full story according to the school’s principal.

Geelong Grammar principal Rebecca Cody has thanked Troy Selwood for going above and beyond for their students during his time at the school.

The life of Selwood, 40, was commemorated at a funeral service at GMHBA Stadium on Friday after his sudden death last week.

Speaking to thousands at the memoriam, Cody applauded Selwood’s ability to motivate and connect with students throughout his three-and-a-half-years as football director and sports performance mentor at the prestigious school.

There was a sea of light blue at the service as Geelong Grammar students gathered to say goodbye to their mentor.

Richmond No.1 pick Sam Lalor, Carlton first-round pick Ollie Hollands, Melbourne Renegades batter Ollie Peake – who all paid their respects – are among the Geelong Grammar alumni he shaped.

Richmond’s Sam Lalor was among the attendees at Troy Selwood's funeral. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images

So was Carlton’s Oliver Hollands. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images

Peake and fellow emerging cricketer Lachie Russell – who produced a masterclass in his honour over the weekend – told this masthead in the past week about his significant influence on them as players and people.

Cody said those top talents don’t tell the full story of his impact on the school as a whole.

“Plenty of statistics and achievements mark the results of such confidence and capability building, yet ‘run club’, cricket premierships and AFL Draft picks seem less important than capturing the essence of this son, brother and dad at work,” Cody said.

“Troy became a trusted adult for many students, whether they were in a first team or the 8Bs.

“Whether it was the way he said your name or acknowledged you during the busiest moments, Troy’s presence could inspire and it could uplift.

“All of us at Geelong Grammar want the beautiful Selwood family to know how their son, brother and dad showed up for our school in the most exceptional ways.

“It is my belief that Troy showed up in ways he would want his own family to be treated – especially his son and daughter.”

Rebecca Cody, Principal of Geelong Grammar speaking at Troy Selwood's funeral. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images

The former Brisbane player was instrumental in building Geelong Grammar’s girls football program.

Cody regularly received notes from grateful school parents about Selwood.

“It was his warmth and kindness that struck many as being central to his unparalleled generosity,”

“Whether it be 7am or 7pm, if you needed Troy, he would be there. At times of joy, grief and everything in between.”

Selwood’s legacy will live on at the school, and Cody is thankful he graced their corridors.

“None of us had Troy in our lives for long enough, yet at Geelong Grammar we cannot help but be grateful that he chose to spend some time with us,” Cody said.

Originally published as Troy Selwood funeral: Geelong Grammar principal Rebecca Cody shares Selwood’s significant influence on students