South Sydney Past Players Association Setup
2nd March 2008
Fenech and Garlick are establishing the first South Sydney Past Players Association, which will be officially launched when the Rabbitohs and Roosters clash in the first round of the NRL in its Centenary year in the Millenium Room of ANZ Stadium at Friday March 14 6:00pm. It will be a financially independent body with its own committee operating without any involvement from the South Sydney Football Club.
Its aim is to foster the camaraderie that past players and officials of the South Sydney District Rugby League Football Club enjoyed and shared when they were active members of the club in any capacity. Members are defined as:
A comprehensive database of contact details was set up and continually updated, enabling members to be informed of functions and re-unions. Membership is free but members are asked to join the Men Of League organisation.
"The association has nothing to do with politics and personalities. This is about recognising and celebrating our involvement with a great club. It's a reunion where we can celebrate our history. We're looking for everyone associated with the club in any grade or position. Some of the greatest characters never even played first grade. But one thing that's driven me to get this started is that the club shouldn't be losing contact with its legends." Garlick said. Invitations have been sent to 650 people.
Former South Sydney captains Mario Fenech and Sean Garlick have also undertaken to get former player and official George Piggins to attend.
The former Souths playing great, coach and chairman has steadfastly refused to attend a Souths game since losing control of the club to Crowe and Holmes a Court in 2006. But Fenech and Garlick want him to put aside his grievances to join Souths legends in the Millennium Room at the Olympic Stadium on March 14.
"We want George back," Fenech said. "Without George Piggins, Souths isn't properly Souths again. He's an icon. He's one of our favourite sons. "To be honest, he represents what South Sydney was built on. The club is in great shape and he's the last piece of the puzzle. This is a reunion and we want him there. "You can quote me on this: I dream about George Piggins returning to Souths. The club won't really have returned to where it needs to be until George is with us again."
"George would have received the letter, like everybody else," Garlick said. "I think he might be some chance of coming. I hope he can put aside his differences. It doesn't matter what side of the great divide you were on. It's a shame when anyone alienates themselves from a club, especially when that person is someone as loved as George."