REBELS finally here!!

The sight that brought tears to my eyes, literally.

I, like so many Rugby fans here in Victoria have been eagerly awaiting the start of the 2011 Super 15 Season. Seeing the Rebels take on Tonga @ Olympic Park and Fiji in Ballarat, I couldn't wait for my inaugural trip to AAMI Park.

Entering the stadium for the very first time, I could feel my excitement growing. I looked around at such varying fans of the latest code to join our great city and in that moment the realization that they would be my comrades in the season ahead filled me with pride and anticipation.
We would cheer together, celebrate together and hopefully not too often cry together.  

I sat down in my seat only a short distance away from where my regular season seats would be and watched as the boys warmed up. Looking across the field, I recognized quite a few players and was pleasantly surprised at just how familiar I had become with the boys and their positions.

Then and there I knew I was well and truly crazy about my team…

This culminated for me, when after warming up, the boys jogged back as one to the dressing room. I looked out and as tears welled up in my eyes, all I could think was…aaaahh there they are!

And they didn't disappoint. Now, I’m not the most proficient analyst of the technicalities of the game and to be honest there was a fair bit I missed simply because I was too excited to even remotely be analytical about it all.

I will say that although there were lots that I’m sure the coaches will take away with them to review and improve, I was happy. The players showed amazing grit and composure and I really believe they represented themselves as a team who will give it their all …for themselves, each other, the coaches, the club and the supporters.

The Rebels are here and they’re here to stay, AS AM I…..

Please check out my photos from 3 of the Preseason games (link below)
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=313217&id=725743161&l=2916f5db61