When it comes to travelling to watch their beloved Sea Eagles play, Manly Members Kylie and Sue Mitchell certainly put in the miles.
Prior to last Saturday’s home game against the Melbourne Storm, the Mitchells from Mudgee had clocked up a staggering 11, 645 kilometres alone this year to watch the Sea Eagles play.
Their efforts and passion for Manly were recognised by the Club when mum Sue, and daughter, Kylie, were named the 2016 Sea Eagles Members of the Year.
They were presented with their awards by injured Manly players Brenton Lawrence and Brett Stewart at the Club’s Members Appreciation Day at Brookvale Oval ahead of the Storm match.
Proud Members since 2004, Sue began her journey with the Sea Eagles in 1971, attending games with friends. Her passion grew extraordinarily rubbed off on her daughter Kylie. Sue made sure her daughter became a Sea Eagle as her partner is a Dragons supporter.
Both ladies have travelled extensively following the Sea Eagles, visiting New Zealand, Melbourne, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and most recently, Perth, as well as all the suburban NRL grounds.
Kylie proudly displays her ‘Buhrerful Manly’ sign and has added sparkling ‘bling’ to her jersey in honour of her favourite player, Jamie Buhrer.
Buhrer congratulated the Mitchells on their award.
“Kylie Mitchell and her family mum have been not only fans of mine, but also Daly Cherry-Evans and Darcy Lussick, from when we were playing in the under-20s,’’ Buhrer said.
“She is one of our biggest supporters and a big fan of mine. I’m a big fan of her and her support. It is definitely appreciated. We play for the fans.”
The Mitchells nominated being at the 2008 Grand Final to witness Manly’s 40-0 victory over Melbourne, as their ‘fondest memory’.
“More than a few tears were shed. The atmosphere was second to none. Just thinking about it now gives us goosebumps,’’ Kylie said.
The Sea Eagles congratulate Kylie and Sue on their well-deserved award.
