Port Adelaide will give fans the chance to celebrate Gavin Wanganeen’s recent entry to the AFL Hall of Fame at this Friday night’s big home match against Collingwood, when the inaugural Power captain performs a lap of honour before the game.
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The Power is also encouraging all supporters to bring a winter blanket to the game to donate to St Vincent de Paul.
Port Adelaide CEO Mark Haysman says the club will arrange collection points for the blankets at AAMI Stadium on Friday night.
“We’d like as many of our supporters as possible to bring a blanket to the game, use it to stay warm during the match, and then leave it for St Vinnies after the final siren,” Haysman said.
“We know it will be chilly, and we’d like to use the opportunity a big Friday night game creates to help the many people around Adelaide who could use the extra warmth that a donated blanket can provide.”
Haysman said Friday night also provided the opportunity for Power fans to recognise Wanganeen’s achievement in entering the AFL Hall of Fame.
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The lap will take place at 7.45pm, just before the teams run out for the 8.10pm start.
“Gavin was a Port Adelaide icon really from his debut as a 16 year old in the SANFL,” Haysman said.
“He captivated people with his unique ability, was the first captain of our club in the AFL, and played a key role in us reaching and winning the 2004 premiership.
“This lap gives our members and supporters the chance to publicly congratulate Gavin on his entry to the AFL Hall of Fame at one of our biggest matches of the year.”
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The Power is also working with the Essendon Football Club to institute a permanent annual tribute to Wanganeen, beginning from next season.