Every time we step onto the field, our minds are naturally focused on the game, our team, and winning. But how much do we think, in general, about the hard work and dedication that goes on behind the scenes to keep our clubs running? How often do we consider the people who first had the idea to create our club?

Every club has founding members. These are the people who started it all. People who didn’t just see a group of players; they saw a community and a legacy. They hold/held the club’s history, traditions, and values. Without their vision and hard work, our clubs wouldn’t exist.

Many clubs with longer histories no longer have their founders around, but it is imperative to hold onto the legacy of hard work and improvement. Fundraising is one such crucial way to keep everything going, from the pitch we play on to the kit we wear, as well as the bigger projects we need to undertake as the years go by. Without fundraising, we wouldn’t have the floodlights, the money to travel for away matches, or the support for young players to join our teams. All these things happen thanks to fundraising efforts.

In every club, there exists a certain cohort – the heartbeat – that keeps the wheels turning. These are the volunteers who organise bake sales and car washes, who reach out to local businesses for sponsorships, and who tirelessly promote our clubs within the community. Their efforts extend far beyond balancing the books; they are ambassadors, advocates, and champions. Their hard work is vital to our clubs’ success.

When we play, we should honour and celebrate these people and, when we can, we should support fundraising efforts and appreciate the sense of community they bring about.

So next time you put on your jersey, think about the journey that brought it to you. Remember the dedication, hard work, and unity that make your club special. We are all a part of something bigger – continuing a legacy.

Let’s play, therefore, not just for the love of the game, but also for the love of our clubs and the people who made them possible.

By Emer Cleary
Founder & CEO
Emu Ink Publishing