The inaugural ‘Golden Eagles Day’ held at Brookvale Oval on Sunday has been hailed a tremendous success.
In what is now to become a permanent fixture on the Club’s home game calender, the Golden Eagles Day was about celebrating the efforts and milestones of former Sea Eagles players.
More than 150 Golden Eagles took up the opportunity to do a ‘Walk to Brookie’ from Manly Warringah Leagues Club prior to the NRL clash against the Parramatta Eels. The Walk recognised the history of the Sea Eagles club.
Supporters inside Brookvale Oval eagerly awaited their arrival to the sounds of the Kyocera Drummers as they entered the ground to a warm reception. It didn’t matter what grade you played or how many games you did battle in, anyone who shed blood and tears for the Sea Eagles were honoured on this very special day.
Located on the hill next to the scoreboard in their own Golden Eagles marquee, the former players mingled with excited supporters who were keen for photos of some of their favourite men from yesteryear.
Then came a special moment that the Golden Eagles in attendance were still talking about inside the Lyons den back at the leagues club after the match – the opportunity to do a lap of honour around their beloved Brookvale Oval.
Players of all ages – including those from the very early days to recent premiership years – walked slowly around the hallowed turf of ‘Fortress Brookvale’, looking splendid in their Golden Eagles polo shirts. It was an impressive sight that will only get bigger and better in years to come.
The conditions may have been cold and wet, but there was plenty of warmth shown to those men who proudly wore the mighty maroon and white colours.
And as they slowly returned to the half-way line in front of the Jane Try Stand, the Golden Eagles formed a Guard of Honour for the NRL match.
It was a spectacular sight as the current Sea Eagles ran onto the field spurred on by those who made the Sea Eagles what it is today – one of the greatest rugby league clubs of all time.
And although the NRL result may have went against the Sea Eagles, in the eyes of those Golden Eagles reliving stories, Manly Warringah will always be winners. It was truly a special occasion.
Click here to see more Golden Eagles photos
