The passion and pride of South Sydney Rabbitohs members and fans was on full display in Cairns over the weekend, as the Red and Greens ventured north for their interstate home fixture against the North Queensland Cowboys.
The Hussey and Chittick families have illustrated the dedication of Rabbitohs members and fans, travelling from Darwin and Nowra respectively to watch their beloved team take on the North Queensland Cowboys in Cairns.
The Cairns fixture has provided northern-based fans with the opportunity to support their Rabbitohs live – something that Diane Hussey is grateful for.
“Obviously living most of my life in the Northern Territory – I’m a New South Wales girl originally – I don’t get to games, but I was lucky enough later in life to be able to get to a few games,” said Diane.
Diane’s nephew Matt Chittick, who ventured north to Cairns from Nowra, is a passionate South Sydney supporter with special needs.
The trip north provided him with the chance to watch his favourite players take the field, see his family and even get the chance to have a rugby league experience of his own, taking part in the ‘All Abilities’ clinic held at the home of Cairns District Junior Rugby League on Friday July 1st.
In partnership with the Endeavour Foundation and NRL Development Far North Queensland, the Rabbitohs held the three hour clinic which saw Hymel Hunt and Roy Asotasi join a range of mentally and/or physically disabled young people participate in drills and games.
The day concluded with Hymel and Roy speaking with participants about their own journeys to NRL success and the importance of friendship, family and trust.
Diane’s husband spoke highly of the experience that his nephew, Matt, had at the clinic alongside Hunt and Asotasi.
“It made their day, it was fantastic. When the boys get enjoyment out of things, that’s great for me,” he said.
“They loved meeting the players, they love their signed hats. It's so nice that they (the players) can take their time out to meet with some special needs kids. I was there and every kid there loved it.”
