Legends in the den: David Cloke, Lee Hore, Darryl Hore, Zac Lea, Terry Daniher and Chris Willis.
“Last year, passing through this remarkable town with the Victorian Variety Bash Crew, I witnessed the heartbreaking challenges faced by the Wahgunyah Football Netball Club, and I made a promise that I would return to hopefully lend a hand.”
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True to his word, that’s exactly what former Collingwood and Richmond footballer David Cloke did, travelling up the Hume Highway with fellow AFL legend- renowned for his career with the Essendon Football Club- Terry Daniher to hang out at the “den” last Saturday.
The aim of the visit was to boost morale around the club and raise funds for Fight MND, during a home game against the Wodonga Saints.
Cloke and Daniher arrived at the club on Saturday afternoon with little fanfare, graciously accepting photos with fans and children alike.
“To see the smiles on people’s faces- that’s what it’s all about,” Cloke told the Free Press.
Cloke's career spanned from 1974 to 1989, during which he amassed an impressive 333 games, scoring 298 goals. Known for his physical prowess and dominant presence on the field, he played as a key forward, and was an integral part of the teams he represented.
He told the Free Press he was “thrilled” to be back in Wahgunyah.
Reflecting on his return, Cloke said, “It's wonderful to be back here and see the incredible spirit of this community. Last year, I witnessed firsthand the challenges this club was facing, and I made a promise to return and help out,” he said.
“Today is about fulfilling that promise and doing whatever I can to support the club in their journey towards success.”
The Wahgunyah Football Netball Club has faced numerous well-documented challenges over the past few years, including dwindling player numbers. Despite boasting exceptional facilities, the club has struggled to field strong teams and achieve their desired success on the field.
Wahgunyah Football Netball Club Presdient Darryl Hore expressed his gratitude for the support received from Cloke and Daniher.
“It's an honour to host legends of the game,” he said.
Commenting on the situation at the club, Hore acknowledged the fantastic facilities at Wahgunyah don’t reflect the “true story behind the club”.
“Anyone who sees our incredible clubrooms and facilities would think we are a thriving club. Unfortunately, our player situation doesn't reflect that. We've been facing challenges, that’s no secret.
“We had a community meeting recently just to see how much support is out there. That was a really positive night for our club. If the community wants the club to stay, they just need to embrace it.
Terri Daniher pictured with the special artwork which were auctioned off on Saturday night.
“With the support we received today and the ongoing commitment of our members, we are determined to turn the tide and keeping fighting.”
It was Terry’s first time to Wahgunyah.
“It’s great to get of Melbourne and see the country,” he said.
Born into the Daniher football dynasty, Terry cemented his legacy as a skilled and versatile player during his illustrious career with the Essendon Football Club.
His career spanned from 1979 to 1993, with an impressive tally of 294 games played and 469 goals scored.
His versatility and ability to excel in multiple positions made him a valuable asset for the Essendon Football Club. He was also an integral part of Essendon's golden era during the 1980s, where the team enjoyed multiple Grand Final victories, including their triumphant seasons of 1984 and 1985.
The Daniher name resonates deeply within the Australian football community, not only for the remarkable talents of each individual member but also for the unbreakable bond shared between them. Among the Daniher brothers, Terry and Neale Daniher have forged a special connection, standing side by side in the face of adversity as they confront the challenges posed by Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
“To come up here and be able to hopefully raise some money is pretty special,” Terry said.
“Growing up in a country town myself, I understand the importance of community, of having a place where people can come together on a Saturday.
“I’m honoured to be representing my family, raising awareness, rallying support, and generating funds that will contribute to crucial research efforts to hopefully one day, find a cure for MND. Every dollar we raise brings us closer to understanding this disease better and finding effective treatments.
“It's humbling to see communities rally around our cause. Neale has had MND for nine years now, and we’ve managed to raise over $70 million in that time. It’s just marvellous.
“Jan his wife and Bec their daughter has been really influential in that.”
Cloke and Daniher’s visit culminated in a fun social night, featuring a dinner, engaging Q&A session with the two legends, and an auction to raise funds for Fight MND.
