When the Heart Rules the Head by Warren Tredrea.
On Tuesday night the SANFL League Directors voted against a proposal to merge the off-field operations of the Power and the Port Magpies. Warren Tredrea gives us his view.
The impact of the past 24 hours is massive. It instantly changes the history and landscape of footy in this state as we know it.
As a listed player of both Port clubs it’s a difficult decision to swallow.
As a kid you pick your team(s) and support them through thick and thin. Sometimes the clubs choose you. Sometimes, like me, you are born into it.
When my father texted me the news last night, I went numb. Then on the TV flashed a news update … “Recommendation ... NO ... vote 0 - 8.” You’re kidding ... how could this happen?
Especially because, unlike many, I’ve seen the model. I might not be the world’s biggest financial expert, but to me it made common sense. It was a no brainer and surely at least given a chance.
When the Magpies made the brave call to approach the Power asking for a lifeline, it was one that took guts.
All that was asked was a three year window to try a plan that most fair-minded people thought could work. I thought it was a certainty.
But obviously bigger issues remain. Port is a sufferer of its own success. Or the envy of others.
You know this is the case when other clubs actively court others to swing their vote to a no.
The powers to be at Alberton must be commended, fighting against the majority to do what’s best for Port Adelaide and no doubt for SA footy. Port Adelaide always does the heavy-lifting for football in this state.
As a father, my son Nate may one day decide to play our great game. Whether he is good enough is another question, but if he is who does he play for?
Port kids growing up like me won’t have a choice; this is where it’s more than just footy.
February 9 will long live in the hearts of Port Adelaide people.
A day when others emotion and envy ruled their hearts ... not their heads.
Port Adelaide, whether it be the Magpies or the Power, has always been and will always be a force in this State.
I guess all we get to do now is live on through one United Port Adelaide ... Come together ... As it’s always been ... Us Against The Rest.
Port Adelaide has come together through this and we need to stick together.
We Are Port.
At least that hasn’t changed.
Tredders
