Chris Thompson Cup charity luncheon panellist Alex Palazzolo (SELLEN Partnerships), Shane Healy (3AW general manager – panellist), event organiser Rob Shinners, Tooradin president Chris Denereaz, Narre Warren president Kim McGill, Dr Candice Boyd (panellist) and Dan Richardson (Elite Sports Properties manager – panellist).By Paul Pickering
FORMER Narre Warren and Tooradin player Chris Thompson was remembered as a courageous footballer, a creative thinker and a supportive mate at Saturday’s inaugural Chris Thompson Cup charity luncheon.
Thompson lost his battle with depression in November 2005, aged 41, having played in a senior grand final with the Magpies in 1981 before spending a decade at Tooradin as a player and reserves coach.
The event was the brainchild of Thompson’s long-time friend, Rob Shinners, who decided to highlight his mate’s story in a bid to raise awareness of mental health issues and the role sporting clubs can play in combating social isolation and substance abuse.
Both club committees embraced the idea and, with the backing of Beyond Blue, the luncheon was a resounding success, with 75 guests attending to listen to a panel of speakers chaired by 3AW radio general manager Shane Healy.
The Chris Thompson Cup was awarded to Narre Warren on the basis of combined results throughout the day, while individual medals were presented to players who displayed courage and creativity in each football and netball contest.
Narre Warren president Kim McGill echoed the sentiments of senior coach Matt Shinners, Rob’s nephew, who encapsulated the spirit of the day when presenting the medal to Magpie Jarrod Anderson.
“The Chris Thompson Cup has real significance, because it’s not a rivalry cup,” McGill said.
“It’s something that benefits both clubs and brings the clubs closer together.”
Tooradin plans to host the event in 2010.
