My story begins back in the days when the Fitzroy Lions were playing at the Junction Oval in the early 1970’s, with players such as Kevin Murray, Garry Wilson, Harvey Merrigan, Ron Alexander, and many more...
As a young girl, I started going to the games with my Grandma. In those days, we would rise early on game day, pack our sandwiches and a thermos full of soup, and of course buy a hot Four ‘n’ Twenty pie.
We would travel by public transport to the ground and arrive ready for the gates to open at 9am, wait for the Reserves to play and then the much-anticipated seniors.
I remember purchasing player photos from the little store at the ground for 20 cents - as well as players name tags, which were sewn onto my footy jumper which I still have to this day!! I was so excited to watch my Mighty Lions.
Fats forward to 2012 and not a lot has changed, only I’m not a young girl anymore! I still get very excited about going to the footy, and still have the privilege of watching great players like Brown, Black, Merrett, Leuenberger and Adcock go about their business. And that's not to mention the up-and-coming breed such as Rich, Rockcliff, Redden, Golby, Longer, and Crisp. A group of us ladies have sponsored Dayne Zorko this year, a new young player who had his first run in the senior squad last week against the Pies. I hope this upcoming group of young guys take us Lions supporters on a great ride into the future.
Being a Melbourne-based supporter, I make the most of the six games that are here in Victoria. After the weekend, I start counting down until the next game. The night before our game, I get my footy bag ready and set my alarm early on game day.
By 11am, I'm ready and eager to get to the ground. I meet my Mum, who is 73 years of age, at the station and we head out on our way. Every game I attend, I purchase the AFL Record book, head to the merchandise tent and always purchase something. We make our way into the ground and purchase a Four ’n’ Twenty pie, but this time we also have a wine - so some things do change.
I have met a great group of passionate Lions supporters over the past years, who all meet before the game and sit together to cheer our team on. We love to get the ‘Liiooonnnss’ chant going!! This is generally lead by energetic supporter, Mahesh - love your work Mahesh. He is our equivalent to Joffer, but he has all his teeth and is much better looking!!! We all have a great day at the footy, enjoying each others' company whilst following our mighty Lions.
I really appreciate the aftermatch functions that are held at the games, because it gives all of the Melbourne supporters the opportunity to meet the players and to hear from the coaching staff and the kids just love it!
Now I'm looking forward to many more years with the Brisbane Lions, which hopefully brings more success! :)
- Kay (Member #1115919)
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The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the Club
