I just wanted to let the lads know that Ive been waiting a long time to see us in the finals.
I havent been to a Souths finals game since the 1980's.
Strangely enough, Ive attended more matches in these last 4 seasons than I have in the last twenty previously
And if we make it, I dont care who we play, I believe that we can go all the way.
Earlier this year we were having a discussion here about what its been like to be faithful to Souths.
The derision and put downs, getting flogged by huge and record scores, watching more missed tackles in a match that other teams would make in a season.
Listening to coaches explain away the losses.
Throwing our hands up at management and recruitment decisions.
But at the end of the day, the only footy jersey hanging up in our wardrobe or shoved in the draw was one of red and green.
And we would go back, time after time, and don that jersey and I still feel the shiver of pride every time I put it on.
And reggie the rabbit leading out the boys, to me, it still brings a lump to the throat and a tear to the eye every single time.
And people know ( and some disagree with me) that I support the bandwagoners because as a veteren fan I want nothing more than for people to share the glory and as many people as possible to be part of the spirit that drives our club rentlessly and without hesitation to the heights of the code.
But Souths is not about a mass of people with flags, its about ourselves and our souls.
Despite the setbacks, my experience following Souths and making the club and team a big part of my life and my identity has been richly rewarding.
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This week we stand on the threshold of a greatness that has been but a distant memory for several years.
In that time people who have shared my passion have come and gone and some have even died, never to experience what we may this weekend. Thats something to think about.
And this week on-forum I have seen our usual cautiousness be replaced by a progressive sense of optimism, hope and above all, a sense of belief.
...............
As we conquered the NRL together, as we got beaten by the Warriors together so once again we unite as people from all backgrounds and circumstances in the name of the only rugby league club worthy of our unhesitating support and undying love.
And the name of that club is South Sydney.
On the eve of greatness, I wanted to thank you my fellow Souths LU forum members for sharing the glory with me since August last year and for making me feel at home.
I'll be there for sure this weekend. To do that Ive had to make a lot of sacrifices this week, but win lose or draw, it will be fugging worth it.
And those of us who are unable to attend, I promise to cheer for you, with all the courage and volume I can muster.
Bandwagoners or not, I reckon that only people with Souths in their hearts can comprehend what this period in time means to us.
Glory to Souths, The Pride of The League.