Football
12 August, 2024
Lakers special tribute to a club legend
John "JK" Kelly was a much-loved Taylors Lake Football Netball Club character. He was involved in the club on many levels, from senior coach, mentor, and volunteer, and the way he embraced the spirit of fun. He was a decorated player and was a league best and fairest winner.
On Saturday, the club held a memorial day for him, led by John's wife Kristy. To top the day off, the Lakers defeated Pimpinio 17.10.112 to 13.18.96.
"On Saturday was a tribute to John, and I did the day to thank the club and the community for supporting myself and the kids through the last seven months," Ms Kelly said.
"I wanted a day that was recognised to John and his achievements, and it was a celebration of John for all that he did and also to raise awareness of mental health and that we need to support each other, talk to each other, and check in with each other, which John did for a lot of people.
"Unfortunately, he struggled himself, and he used sport as his outlet, and I am grateful for the club for allowing us to get out there and support John at his happy place."
"It was a very emotionally charged day, and the amount of support people showed was overwhelming, and you could see how many people John touched in the community."
At the start of the senior game, a guard of honour went from the changerooms to past the centre of the ground. John's daughter, Charlotte, also flipped the coin ahead of the senior game, and their son, Jack, led the senior team out.
Ms Kelly said it was an emotional moment.
"I have never seen a guard of honour that big before. I was doing alright and holding up okay, but when everyone lined up and I saw how many supporters were there, it did me in a bit," Ms Kelly said.
"I couldn't believe how many people were there for us, especially when giving my speech before the game.
"The support from Pimpinio was also great as they had their tragedy as well late last year with the passing of Trent DeZoete, and it was two teams coming together after a rough trot."
When the final siren blew and the Lakers had won, Ms Kelly said it was the icing on the cake.
"The win was the icing on the cake after a very special day," Ms Kelly said.
"Justin Beugelaar said there was something special in the air that day, and John definitely did help a few goals through as most were scored at his favourite end, the Dock Lake end. The boys played beautifully, and everything came together, and the win made my day."
After the game, Ms Kelly was donated with a photo of John and was given a football.
"It was special to be part of that moment, just knowing we had the entire club behind us."
That night, the club held a function to celebrate, be happy, and have fun in John's memory.
"John was a cheeky guy and loved a dress up, especially crossdress, so all the costumes he wore were on display, and we invited everyone to come as their favourite John Kelly," Ms. Kelly said.
"There were a lot of mankinis, and I saw a lot of flesh, but it was a lot of fun. Past club president Travis Mackley organised a lot, and we had speakers who spoke about John and his life."
"Raelene Johnston presented a collection of photos of John taken over the years. We had a casserole, which was John's favourite. It was a special night."
"It was good to celebrate his life, and we need to support each other and look after each other moving forward."
