The Sea Eagles’ final home game for the 2015 season was made extra special for one dedicated Member on Friday night.
John Ward was named ‘Member of the Year’ in front of his family at Fortress Brookvale and was presented with his award by Manly Warringah legend Steve Menzies.
Members were asked to nominate who they believed deserved to be the number one Member for 2015 in the lead up to the Sydney Roosters match.
There were some outstanding candidates from the Sea Eagles Membership family but John’s story stood out.
A long-standing Member born and bred on the Northern Beaches, 74-year-old John has supported Manly Warringah since the Club was established in 1947.
John owned and ran his own newsagency for 20 years and always attended every home game.
His favourite customer was former Manly player and respected administrator Ken Arthurson.
John’s dedication to the club was further proven before having heart surgery where he had an argument with his surgeon about rescheduling his operation to the afternoon so that he could catch the Manly game in the evening in his hospital bed.
His most prized possession is his 50th anniversary Sea Eagles jacket which he has had signed by players such as Geoff Toovey.
In addition to seeing Manly play at Brookvale Oval, John also enjoys seeing his grandchildren play sport on weekends. He also works for a local charity, driving senior citizens to assist them shopping and to enjoy time outdoors.
John truly embraces the Sea Eagles’ ‘Stronger Together’ slogan in all aspects of his life, and for this reason, was chosen as the 2015 Manly Warringah Sea Eagles Member of the Year.
Congratulations John from everyone at the Sea Eagles.
