First, my T&T’s for the week…
TERRIFIC
TERRIBLE
Now to everyone who replied to our internet poll last week, I thank you sincerely.
Mr Brogan wasn’t too impressed, especially when my article’s exposure has now gone beyond the internet. I’m proud to say Tredders - Terrible & Terrific has been recognised by The Advertiser, Herald Sun, Fox Footy Channel, and even Melbourne’s free public transport publication, mX. What next, the BBC? I dream.
I’m told there were more than 1,000 votes all up and with a 70% majority to Chesty Bonds we could lay the issue to rest.
But I received a couple of emails that got me thinking, is there an even better Brogan look-a-like right on our doorstep at Alberton? I have to share this you all which landed in my inbox at tredders16@hotmail.com...
Gee Tredders, What a dilemma! Who does Dean Brogan most resemble? Is it Roger Ramjet, Hero of Our Nation; or Chesty Bonds, Two-dimensional Dreamboat? I've given this matter a great deal of thought, and although it was a tough call, I think I've picked it. Roger Ramjet. But then I clicked on the home page link to cast my vote, and it hit me. Look at that shot of our mascot, Thunda Power. Can you see it?
But now to a more serious note…
Many things in a footballer’s life are pretty easy to take. Driving a flash car from a sponsor, free sports goods, invitations to shows. At the other end of the scale, the worst thing we think can happen to us is we could be injured for an entire season.
Last Wednesday Alastair Clarkson, Chad Cornes, Stuart Dew and myself drove out to a home in St Agnes and were greeted by one of the keenest Power supporting families in Australia. By the time we said goodbye, we were looking at our lives a little bit differently.
Their house, flanked by a dry creek, was like any other in suburban Adelaide. The difference is there is a 16-year-old boy inside the house playing the toughest game of his short career, he’s fighting cancer, fighting a brain tumour.
Chris Thompson is the boy’s name, he’s a passionate Port supporter, he never misses a game, neither does his family. Chris has been fighting for quite a while, in and out of hospital.
While a guest of the Thompson household I learnt that Chris couldn’t speak. He taught me a great lesson in life that is easily overlooked, we are all fighters.
Chris is the type that never gives in. He’s not sitting there worrying about what if, he’s getting on with life, fighting hard, cheering for the team he loves.
Illness makes everything bear into insignificance, it brings everything and everyone back to reality – the once prized possession, that eluding luxury, they just don’t stand up to your good health.
As AFL players we’re role models, it’s our duty to get out in the community. Why shouldn’t we make someone’s day, put a smile on a face when we can.
To Chris and your family, keep fighting, we’re thinking of you and I hope that POWERful visit put a smile on your face.
Till next week,
Tredders
