I interviewed Mark Bryant about the association to find out exactly what they want to do.
1. Why did you start the Golden Eagles?
We started this to do something positive for the club and fans. After all the drama that happened this year after the boardroom battles and bad press, Josh and I hated seeing the club we love in such a bad state.
2. What are the association's plans going forward?
Our 2 main objectives are to keep all ex-players of all grades in retirement together, so we can support them if they need it. We also want to make the next generation of Manly first grader's a priority, as the main part of our fundraising will be going to junior rugby league on the Northern Beaches. We also want to include fans in the functions that we have, as they're the reason that we had jobs in our earlier years.
3. Who is apart of the running of the association?
Myself and Josh Perry are chairman and vice-chairman respectively, as well as a number of other players from all different eras so that we can cover all members' needs. Norm Pounder, Dave Hosking, Brook Eadie and Matt Lonergan form our committee.
4. What are your opinions on the new CEO of the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, Joe Kelly?
We have had two meetings with Joe Kelly so far, and both Josh and I were really impressed. He's a down to earth guy, but he has a brilliant business mind and vision for the future of the club. He is already thinking of not only next year, but the next 5 years ahead.
5. Will anything exciting be happening involving the Golden Eagles in the near future?
Next year we want to have a calendar of events which will be on our website, which will be opening very soon. We want to do supporter travel to away games so that the fans will be able to have organised tours. Not only will they be able to connect with the Golden Eagles members, but also the current playing squad as we have their full support. We intend to make the leagues club our home, as it has been neglected over the past few years and we want to help it come to life again, with hopefully a celebration back at the leagues club after every Brookvale game.
I am more than impressed with this association. It is a brilliant idea and truly kind for two of our premiership winning stars to give up their time for the greater good of the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles and their fans. It shows how the Manly culture has always been here, even many years after playing their final game for the maroon and white, they still come back to the club to help out wherever they can.
Make sure you keep an eye out for the Golden Eagles in 2015!
Twitter: @mwgoldeneagles
