The West Coast Eagles celebrated the loyalty of its latest crop of 10-year members at a Bronze Beneath our Wings sundowner last Wednesday.
Held in the John Worsfold room at Domain Stadium, Eagles inaugural captain Ross Glendinning acted as MC on the night, welcoming guests and reminding them of some of the club’s highlights since 2008 - the year they joined the club.
Glendinning later introduced West Coast Eagles general manager of business strategy and growth Deane Pieters, who spoke in detail about the points of difference between Domain and Perth Stadium, as well as the progress of the stadium deal and member benefits to come from the state-of-the-art facility.
After Pieters fielded some questions from the crowd, Glendinning welcomed players Simon Tunbridge and Mark Hutchings to the stage.
Tunbridge, who is returning from a knee reconstruction, discussed the club’s reduced injury list and his prospects of returning to football through East Perth this year.
For Mark, discussions turned to preparations for the Eagles’ clash with Geelong the following evening. The hard-hitting midfielder spoke about his excitement at the prospect of potentially tagging Patrick Dangerfield or Joel Selwood, and predicted the forwards would not have a problem without star Josh Kennedy.
After guests took a break to mingle and get some picture with the players, it was time for Ross to welcome the final special guests for the night, Auzzie the Eagle and her handler Yvonne from the WA Birds of Prey Centre.
A firm fan favourite, Auzzie captured the attention of the room while Yvonne detailed how their relationship with the West Coast Eagles begun.
After a few more questions from the crowd, it was time to draw out the door prizes, with the winner taking home a 2017 team and coach-signed guernsey.
For more information on the West Coast Eagles Beneath our Wings Member Recognition Program, please click here.