On Australia Day my wife, who’s has immigrated to Australia from the US, became an Australian citizen. To my very pleasant surprise the Australia Day ambassador at my wife’s ceremony was none other than the legendary Tommy Hafey!
For someone like me growing up in the seventies there is no greater Richmond legend than Tommy. We got to have a quick chat to Tommy before and after the ceremony. He truly is one of life’s great gentlemen. He is so down to earth and was more than happy to pose with the Richmond supporters present for photos and he signed the commemorative book given to my wife.
While there were the obligatory speeches from various politicians, Tommy’s “speech” was straight from the heart and without any notes. He spoke about the importance of looking after yourself (sport and physical fitness), of respecting and helping your parents, of loyalty, of looking after Australia (no graffiti or dropping rubbish), of appreciating what we have in Australia (instead of holidaying overseas) and never giving up – even after setbacks. On this last point he gave numerous examples of AFL footballers and cricketers who were dumped by their club/state and went on to become champions. It was like getting a life rev-up from one of the greatest coaches ever!
Tommy, you’ve still got it! You are a living legend!
For someone like me growing up in the seventies there is no greater Richmond legend than Tommy. We got to have a quick chat to Tommy before and after the ceremony. He truly is one of life’s great gentlemen. He is so down to earth and was more than happy to pose with the Richmond supporters present for photos and he signed the commemorative book given to my wife.
While there were the obligatory speeches from various politicians, Tommy’s “speech” was straight from the heart and without any notes. He spoke about the importance of looking after yourself (sport and physical fitness), of respecting and helping your parents, of loyalty, of looking after Australia (no graffiti or dropping rubbish), of appreciating what we have in Australia (instead of holidaying overseas) and never giving up – even after setbacks. On this last point he gave numerous examples of AFL footballers and cricketers who were dumped by their club/state and went on to become champions. It was like getting a life rev-up from one of the greatest coaches ever!
Tommy, you’ve still got it! You are a living legend!
:clap
