Dad was crazy about Polly Farmer and he would drive an 8 hour round trip to watch them when it didn't interfere with the local stuff. (As a 10 year old I was none too impressed. People often ask why I live in Geelong now and hate the Cats so much - this is part of it) But one day that was all to change. The neighbouring farm was sold to the Kilpatrick family. Son John was a friend of Neil Roberts who came to stay.
That was enough for me, at least I knew the name of another VFL team! But that was only the beginning. Along came Big Carl and like a million other girls around the country I fell instantly in love with him. I carried a photo of him in my school blazer pocket. I had his name emblazed on every posssession, even the old wool shed had big black lettering all over it (It is still there today despite many shearers etc adding their own, often degrading comments etc. I would religiously restore my handiwork to it's rightful glory.
Anyway I didn't marry Carl but my love affair with the Saints has continued. (My husband was once mistaken for Carl by a group of hysterical teenagers before we were married) My husband naturally became a Saints supporter as did the rest of my family including dear old Dad. My love and admiration for Carl resulted in our first born bearing the name CARL my husband drew the line at CARL ROBERT DITTERICH so I settled for Carl Thomas (a family name).
Well now we live in Geelong have been members for 17 years and never miss a game now. Long live Big Carl (We actually lived in the Mallee for 4 years and used to see Carl at the Manangatang races!)
Go Saints!
Gayle Ward
P.S. I teach with a woman who also called her son after Carl Ditterich. Her whole family are also Saints supporters because of Big Carl.
