I know you’ve probably read this line a million times, but I can tell you it’s absolutely true.
Football clubs simply wouldn’t function if it wasn’t for the loyal support of their members.
Our Club’s tally of 20,752 members in 2012 might not quite stack up against the likes of Collingwood - who topped 70,000 this year - but I reckon what the Lions fans lack in numbers, they more than make up for in voice.
The West Coast game back in Round 10 at the Gabba is a perfect example.
There was apparently just a touch over 15,000 people in the crowd that day, but when Polks’ torpedo sailed through from 60m to put us in front, you would have thought it was a packed house.
The noise was deafening and no doubt played a big part in getting us over the line.
This Sunday, the Club gets to officially thank all our 2012 members for their ongoing support throughout the season with a range of game-day activities.
Part of the pre-game entertainment includes a special ‘thank you’ video from the players which features none other than yours truly.
I won’t give anything away just yet about my cameo appearance, only that the boys had a bit of a laugh filming it.
It’s just a small way to show our appreciation to you guys for turning up each week and sticking with us throughout some pretty lean years. But as you’ve seen, there’s plenty to be excited about heading into 2013.
So make sure you get along to our last game of the year this Sunday to help the team get over the line against the Bulldogs.
Before I sign off for another year, I wanted to give a special mention to our Reserves boys who have a huge Semi Final ahead of them this Saturday night in Darwin.
It’s a tough assignment, but a win will send them straight into the NEAFL Grand Final in a couple of weeks’ time.
It also means that they might be able to regain the services of some of the senior players - like Ryan Harwood, Rohan Bewick, Josh Green, James Hawksley, Claye Beams, Jordan Lisle, and Jack Crisp - for the ‘big one’ should they need.
Fingers crossed they can get the job done and bring some new silverware home to the Gabba by season’s end.
