Almanac Tribute – Danny Frawley will always touch us

Vale Danny Frawley.

 

The St Kilda legend was killed at a single-car clash in Millbrook, near Ballarat on Monday 9 September.

 

The tragedy shocked the entire footy community and I was so upset as a big St Kilda supporter.

 

I had never seen him playing or coaching because I started following footy only eight years ago.

 

But I have heard his sense of humour through radio and TV.

 

He was a true Aussie bloke.

 

Final farewell was organised by St Kilda Football Club and RSEA Park (Morrabbin Oval) was open for public on Wednesday 18 September.

 

Unfortunately I couldn’t afford the time or money to travel to Melbourne at the time, but I was lucky being able to watch the memorial service on Watch AFL.

 

Its MC was a Game Day host, Hamish McLachlan. His calm attitude suited the legend’s farewell.

 

But speeches made from his cousin to former St Kilda teammate, to former Richmond captain, to his commentary colleagues, were mixed of humour and emotion.

 

They were reflected on his great personality and passion for footy.

 

Great captaincy and on field performances were talked by Robert Harvey, as well as how Spud looked after his teammates.

 

Words from Wayne Schwass in regarding  mental health issues were stuck in my head and made my eyes wet.

 

“To quote Danny, ‘manning up in the past was to suffer in silence; manning up now is to put your hand up’.”

 

“Fellas, it’s OK to be in pain, it’s OK to hurt, it’s OK to be sad, but it’s no longer OK to suffer in silence. It’s time for a new narrative.”

 

The above quotes were powerful and apply to all.

 

Jason Dunstall opened up his mouth to talk about playing on field as opponents and fun time at Fox Footy.

 

All speeches were great and showed how Frawley was loved.

 

The memorial service ended with a video made by his wife and three daughters. They talked about his legacy and great times, but talking about mental health issues flooded a bit in my eyes.

 

At Morrabbin, approximately 5,000 people turned up. It reflected on how much Danny was loved and how strong St Kilda supporters community was.

 

I am proud of supporting this wonderful club and want my boys to place his legacy in their minds and to play hard for the legend.

 

Here is my message to Spud.

 

Danny, I vow to play footy hard no matter who for in honour of you (I am an Osaka Dingoes player but have some opportunities filling in some clubs at international tournaments).

 

Your passions, braveness and encouragements are put in my heart and apply both on and off the field.

 

I cannot wait the next match against Mongolian Wolves being played on Saturday 19 October in Osaka.

 

Rest In Peace.

 

Lifeline  is a free and confidential support service which can be reached on 13 11 14.

Beyond Blue  can be reached on 1300 22 46 36.

 

 

Our writers are independent contributors. The opinions expressed in their articles are their own. They are not the views, nor do they reflect the views, of Malarkey Publications.

 

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About Yoshihiro Imagawa

Love, passion and pride are seen on the footy that is the biggest part of my life. 1. St Kilda Club member: I am a passionate and crazy Sainter. Just hope we will win the second flag soon, especially after Dogs and Tigers having ended long premiership draughts. 2. The Osaka Dingoes Player and Public Relations Officer: Player number 44 that I chose to honour Stephen Milne with my wish being like a small forward like him. Lenny Hayes' hardworking attitudes are adopted on my trainings and practices. Nick Riewoldt's great plays are in my player audiobook too. 3. Writing: Here on the Almanac and also on the World Footy News. My skills utilise on great footy websites.

Comments

  1. JASON ANDREW TOPPIN says

    TO THOSE WHO LOVED, KNEW AND WORKED ALONGSIDE DANNY FRAWLEY YIOU ARE ALWTYAS IN MY PARYERS AN THOUGHTS. TO DANNY FRAWLEY GOD REST YOUR SOULN AND MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

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