Thank you, Brian Lenton

Below is the thankyou speech the Gunnedah Bulldogs AFL club read to Brian Lenton.

Today we gather in honouring an important individual who has touched the lives of so many within the AFL community on a regional scale but importantly, acknowledge a man who single handedly bettered the lives of countless individuals from all walks of life through his unwavering efforts and passion through the foundation of the Gunnedah Bulldogs AFL club.

It’s a special day for the club seeing so many faces gather today who have contributed towards the club in any capacity throughout our 47 year history.

But as mentioned, today ultimately comes down to celebrating one man who pioneered AFL football in the region, and a man who’s so close to our hearts within the Gunnedah Bulldogs club.

Without this man and his altruistic approach to the game, we wouldn’t have the luxury of enjoying what we have today and have done for the past 47 years, and his elevation into the AFLNSW Hall Of Fame does justice for the tireless and countless hours of behind the scenes work over 47 years that all too often we take for granted.

Deb Naismith presents the Dustin Martin-signed guernsey to Brian Lenton.

Upon thinking of what we could do for you as a club, it’s hard to imagine what you could do for a man who has done it all.

But in honour of you Brian, we’ve taken an approach that’s considered something you only do when someone within your club is no longer there.

However, we don’t think it does justice to everything you’ve done for everyone who are not only here today, but to those who have sadly passed and to those who have had the privilege to represent the club at some point in its 47-year history.

Initiated by yourself in 1977, was the wearing of the number 20 during your incredible playing days, that was then passed down to your son, Nathan, who proceeded to carve out his own path through an amazing career and last cab of the family tree, Natasha, who also wore your number 20, reciprocating your efforts as a pioneer of AFL through our first ever women’s side.

Also, it would be remiss not to mention your biggest supporter and life partner of 56 years, Judy, who’s resolute comfort and kindness throughout your journey as a partnership has ultimately achieved unrivalled success throughout the course of your marriage.

Upon this, we would like to retire the number 20, symbolising the fact that in this walk of life, there will never be another person involved in this club like you.

From the bottom of our hearts, there aren’t enough words to thank you for everything you have done and continue to do for the club; the legacy you created will forever leave an indelible mark on the Gunnedah Bulldogs AFC that will never be reproduced or touched.

We are forever thankful to you.

Yours in love and footy, your club;

District AFC Bulldogs.