Players and onlookers had just witnessed one of the most extraordinary games to add to the recent catalogue of memorable Cricket Shepparton Haisman Shield grand finals.
The roar and celebrations from Katandra’s tight-knit community provided scenes that will be long remembered.
It was jaw-dropping stuff as the Eagles capped an incredible 22-run Haisman Shield triumph — the club’s second title in six years.
But there was a moment that came during the presentation ceremony, up on the grandstand — a place where hundreds of teams have shared special moments over the years — that was far more powerful, moving and touching.
When Katandra teenager Bailey Simpson was called upon to receive his premiership medallion.
The cheer for young Simpson, which came from not just Katandra supporters but each of the premiership winning sides on the day, pulsated amongst the crowd watching on.
There arguably hasn’t been a more inspiring moment than when he had the medal draped around his neck.
He may not have played on the day, but the Eagles’ youngster received the largest hair-rising cheer.
If it wasn’t for a horrible and tragic car crash two weeks ago, which sadly claimed the life of his older brother and Katandra cricketer Clayton, he may have been out on the field and providing a helping hand in the memorable grand final triumph.
Instead, he watched on from the sidelines and gave his support as his teammates saluted in the decider which handed the community its second premiership on the day.
“It’s fantastic to achieve this for the community after what’s been a real tough couple of weeks. I think the celebrations will go on for a fair while,” Katandra A-grade captain Ben Clurey said.
“We couldn’t be happier to chip in and give some enjoyment back to the community after what’s been a pretty rough couple of weeks. We’re thrilled to be able to provide some enjoyment and hopefully bring happiness to them.
“It was really special to see him (Bailey) here and for us to get around him as a group is the least we could do. It’s great and hopefully he can join in on the celebration and let his hair down now.”
Born and bred Katandra player Andrew Riordan, who secured his maiden Haisman Shield premiership, mentioned how the events of the past fortnight had rallied the cricket teams and community together.
“I think it could have gone one of two ways when such a sad event happens,” Riordan said.
“I think we used it as extra motivation, it probably connected us together and made us stronger as a group and community. Clay and the Simpson family were definitely in our thoughts for the past few weeks and I felt like today he was every bit a part of it.
“It was extra special; they are such a great family for this community, been around forever and been great supporters of the club.”
Katandra young gun Billy Holmes, who stepped in for Simpson following the accident, dedicated the win to his former teammate Clayton.
Holmes grabbed 3-11 in an eye-catching and break-out performance which led the Eagles to victory.
“I dedicated this one to Clay, I played with the black arm-band on again and we’ll celebrate this one hard for him,” he said.
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