Tigers’ special tribute for Joe
THE memory of beloved former player Joe Sutton will be at the forefront of Labrador’s minds when they take on Wilston Grange today as they try to keep their QAFL finals hopes alive.
The Tigers will use the Round 15 game as their annual day to commemorate Sutton, who died after suffering from Crohn’s disease in the 2013 season.
Current Labrador senior coach Liam Burke was one of Sutton’s Tigers teammates that year and said his death rocked the playing group.
“It’s a sad moment in the footy club’s history,” he said.
“There were quite a number of guys who were really close to him and still play or are involved at the footy club.
“He was adored by the playing group. He had a joke for everything.
“He had an infectious personality and people just gravitated towards him.”
The players will don purple armbands today while money raised from raffles and food will be donated to Crohn’s and Colitis Australia.
Burke said the team traditionally lifted for the commemoration game.
“I remember the year it happened. Quite a number of his mates played that weekend and it took quite an emotional toll on them,” Burke said.
“Now it’s become something we lock in the calendar every year. It’s a special day.”
Four points are also crucial for Labrador who sit one win outside the top five with four games to play.
The Tigers have made three forced changes to the side with ruckman Lachlan Davidson, outside runner Jacob Sands and small forward Max Johnston replacing Andy Hollis (shoulder), Tom Davidson (general soreness) and Corey Mullins (unavailable).
SURFERS Paradise will host Broadbeach at Sir Bruce Small Park today while Palm Beach Currumbin have a bye.