The successful football program has won many Ballarat Associated Schools and Herald-Sun Shield titles, but the current crop has been unable to take the field for any formal competition in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A key part of SPC football history has been the presentation of the first XVIII guernsey to those who qualify by playing five games each year.

While matches haven't taken place, the school has decided to continue the tradition. The college asked some senior year 12 footballers to design a special, one-of-a-kind jumper which will be presented at the end of the year as a memento of the 2020 season.

"Our graduating year 12 students have been robbed of the chance to earn their first XVIII jumper through no fault of their own," a St Patrick's College Facebook post read.

"However, we did not think it would be fair to see them leave empty handed.

"Our football coaches will determine those who will receive the jumper based on their contribution to the football program not just in 2020, but throughout their time at the college."

The new and unique design features elements of both the modern first XVIII jumper while also encompassing aspects, such as the SPC wording, from the guernsey worn 100 years ago. The iconic long sleeves have also been maintained.

St Pat's head coach Gavin Webb said the team played its annual practice match against Assumption College in March, but that was all the competition that had taken place in a disappointing season.

"This (jumper) is very unique and the boys who receive it will value it," Webb said.

"We normally hand out about 27-28 jumpers a year. We will stick to that in 2020."