Living in Perth I joined in 2005 as an Interstate Member. Recently I became a committee member of the WA Swans Supporters Club and a sponsor of the Supporters Club with my company, which sells traditional gourmet beef jerky.
What does it mean to the people of WA to have an active supporters group? How can people get involved?
Coming from an AFL state like WA where AFL is so encouraged and spoken about, it is imperative the Sydney Swans take their share of the market by providing people with the opportunity to actively support the Swans with good value, fun and entertaining Supporter Clubs.?We at the WA Swans in 2011, with the kind endorsement of Tony Morwood - General Manager (Melbourne office), will introduce;
- Unlimited number of memberships
- A new WA Swans logo (designed by Cameron Hart- computer guru-new member)
- WA Swans polo shirts (Chris Harrison- President)
- Monthly newsletters (The Swan- Graham Madigan-committee member)
- Fridge magnet and Football Tipping Competition(Hugh Clergyman)
- People & Pets Photo Competition
- Invitations to WA Swans events (upcoming family fun day at Kings Park - Deborrah & Philip Rechter- committee members)
- New website www.waswans.info ( Peter Lancaster-committee member)
- 91.3 Sports FM radio show( Saturdays during football season 9.00-9.30am - hosted by Don Barrett, Peter & Amy Byrne
- Member discounts to sponsored WA Swans businesses, and a discount on merchandise to all AFL shops in Perth upon showing new WA Swans Member card
- WA Swans car number plates ( managed by Carolyn Donaldson - Club Secretary)
The cost for 2011 annual Membership to the WA Swans is $20 each or $30 per family which represents outstanding value. For information on becoming a Member or if you have any queries please email the WA Swans at sydneyswanswa@gmail.com? ?WITH UNITED PASSION AND ENTHUSIASM…..THE MOMENTUM IS IN OUR HANDS!
What do you like most about being a member?
It’s definitely having that strong belief of being valued by the Sydney Swans. As a Club, they set the benchmark for others by showing respect for the jumper and the work that they do within the community.?I can personally recall talking with the Manager of the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Perth where I stayed when the Swans were in town to play; he rated the Sydney Swans Football Club number one for their courtesy and friendliness towards his staff and the general public. This was reinforced at the recent Cocktail Party in Perth in August where players were visibly enthusiastic when talking with fans and signing autographs.?These characteristics are taken on to the field as shown by the competitive team passion in true Bloods spirit!?Being a Member is your individual commitment to the Sydney Swans and this helps in forming a solid foundation to safeguard the future of the Club in a competitive market.?My enthusiasm is to recruit new people to become Members or Supporter Club Members in their respective States by connecting with them via Facebook. With the kind assistance of all 5 AFL Shops in Perth we have been able to also distribute WA Swans Membership forms and fridge magnets.
What is your all-time favourite Swans moment? What made it so special?
Without doubt the ‘05 Grand Final when Leo Barry took ‘that’ mark (Leo Barry you star!) I collapsed on the floor and started crying while still thinking is this really happening??For all those years I copped it from fellow West Aussies saying, “Why do you follow a team like the Swans?’’ I responded with, “Guess why they’re called the Swans?’’?With the West Coast Eagles being our opponents that year, it made the victory that little bit sweeter!?Furthermore I was born on the 25th, my favourite number is 25 and my number plate is 252 so winning a premiership in 2005 was a dream come true!
What was your favourite moment in 2010? Describe why it was so good.
The WA Swans trip to Sydney on the Anzac weekend was a monumental experience for 13 Members. Most were strangers who became friends, it was a trip filled with joy and laughter from a diverse collection of personalities. I was lucky enough to go on a personalised tour of the Club’s Headquarters and players’ change room. After beating West Coast I attended the Chairman’s Club after match function which was a unique experience, however I can’t top meeting Captain Kirk the day before the match!?The other highlight was the Cocktail Party in August. Much to my surprise I was awarded the 2010 WA Swans Team Member Of The Year. It will be something I shall cherish forever and would like to thank WA Swans president Chris Harrison for her dedication and commitment in working with me and others to achieve this award.
Who is your favourite Swans player and why are they your favourite?
Brett Kirk is my all-time favourite Swan, the determination to achieve his true potential as a player and a man is second to none. In my mind and many others he has left a legacy at the Sydney Swans Football Club that is epitomised by the true Bloods spirit!
What do you like most about coming to Swans matches?
Given the fact that most times I watch the boys play I’m out at Subiaco Oval I've had my share of nail biters. One thing you do get when supporting the Swans is a game that is characterised by intensity and pressure, both on the field and on the scoreboard.
Last August I watched the Fremantle game with Bill Lunio (a WA Swans Member), and the experience was like being on an emotional rollercoaster! Against all odds we came out on top and it set a great platform for the Finals Series.
Every time I've watched us win in the West it seems to enhance great confidence in the playing group, and I'm looking forward to April 9 next year when we clash with West Coast again.
Any final words for the team?
On behalf of the WA Swans I would like to take the opportunity to thank all players and team officials who attended the August Cocktail Party in Perth. Your dedication and commitment to your supporters was most appreciated.
Furthermore, special thanks to Ben McGlynn for his comments on the Swans Website when he was injured in Perth - several people made the effort to offer their thoughts with cards and presents and it was great of him to show his appreciation.
I would like to thank the Sydney Swans for recognising individuals through Member of the Week; I sincerely believe this is a great initiative that encourages other people to become more active in their Membership. It also provides other States with the opportunity to enhance their potential and develop stronger Supporter Groups. The next twelve months are huge for this Club and we must all band together!
Finally I would like to wish our new Coach John Longmire every success in his first season as Senior Coach.
IT IS EVERY FANS RESPONSIBILITY TO HELP PROMOTE AND RECRUIT NEW MEMBERS SO THAT OUR CLUB CAN CONTINUE TO GROW IN 2011!
HOW MUCH DO YOU LOVE YOUR SWANS?
