Clubs mourn a lost mate

Maddy Dickson boots a goal for Narre Warren during the tribute match for former player Riyani Lowen, who died in a two-car collision at Lynbrook 11 days ago. 33007

By Marc McGowan
THE South Eastern Youth Girls football community mourned one of its own at Casey Fields on Saturday morning.
Sixteen-year-old Riyani Lowen, who played for Narre Warren’s Youth Girls team in 2006 and 2007, was among four teenagers who died in a two-car collision in Lynbrook 11 days ago.
Players and officials from the Narre Warren and Hallam Youth Girls sides observed a minute’s silence for the Year 10 Narre Warren South P-12 student before their weekend match.
All six South Eastern Youth Girls teams also wore black armbands in memory of Lowen during their games and AFL Victoria female football development manager Chyloe Kurdas was in attendance.
Narre Warren team manager Wally Gasparini coached Lowen during her time at the club and previously lived in the same Narre Warren South street.
Gasparini also gave a speech to the Narre Warren players before the contest.
“Everyone was a bit downcast and there were a few girls who did not turn up because they were pretty close to Riyani and the others who were killed,” he said.
“It was a pretty sombre sort of mood, but we pepped up when the supporters, ex-players and ex-coaches came into the rooms.
“The support really lifted our sprits because, let’s face it, it’s affected everyone.
“Even if you weren’t close to those particular people who were involved, it still impacted because you were close to someone who’s mourning.”
Gasparini’s daughter, Hayley, was captain during Lowen’s playing years and his other daughter, Tayla, currently competes for Narre Warren.
Hallam beat Narre Warren by 40 points, but Gasparini said the girls did their best.
“The theme was ‘if you’re in a bit of pain or something is not going right, just remember how lucky you are’,” he said.
Gasparini also praised the support the community has provided since the tragedy.
“We’ve had local businesses willingly help out with the wake to provide food and that sort of stuff because there are a lot of mourners,” he said.
“I just want to give a big thank you for the support right through the community.
“It’s been fantastic and I’m sure Riyani’s parents (Emma and Jack) appreciate the massive response they’ve had as well.”
Lowen’s funeral was held at Bunurong Memorial Park in Dandenong South yesterday (Wednesday).