Football
15 July, 2024
Wild celebrations as Bone kicks his first goal
In what will be a memory that lasts a lifetime, Laharum's loveable character, Brad Bone, kicked his first-ever goal on Saturday for the reserves in their win over Pimpinio, and it was celebrated in style on the field and off.
Bone has a mild intellectual disability and previously played footy for the Wimmera Whippets. Over the last three years, he has been a prominent figure at Laharum on and off the field in the Horsham District Football Netball League.
Bone was not meant to play on Saturday, but he was a late call-up with a withdrawal close to the game. He played in the forward pocket and was rewarded with a down-the-field free kick in the fourth quarter, taking a shot at goal directly in front.
Senior coach Shannon Argall said everyone held their breath when he had his shot.
"The reserves captain, Joel Pymer, grabbed the ball and gave it to him. He said it was his kick," Argall said.
"Everyone held their breath as he took his kick, and he only managed to scrape it in. Everyone ran to him to congratulate him, and it is a moment he will remember for the rest of his life."
Brad's father, Aaron, was proud of his son.
"He always loved his footy, and he was determined to play in a proper league, and he has done it. He is 26 years of age, and he has worked hard, and I am proud of him," Aaron said.
Brad himself loved the moment.
"I was just thinking it was a grand final, and I wanted to kick the goal, and I was pretty happy I managed to kick it," Brad said.
"It was awesome, a good feeling, and a great experience, and hopefully more will come."
The reserves ended up defeating Pimpinio, 17.14.116 to 3.2.20.
The team celebrated the win and Brad's moment with beers and cheers following the game.
Before Brad got his license a few years ago, his mum took him to Laharum. Along the way, they came across the Pimpinio trailer broken down on the side of the road. They ended up towing the trailer to the ground.
Brad is a loved Laharum Football Netball Club member who always gives the team a rev-up talk after Thursday's training.
Shannon Argall explained the routine.
"Every Thursday night after training, after we prepare for the game, everyone gets around him, and he gives us a rev-up talk and says how we are going to defeat our opponents and how everyone will play a great game."
Laharum President Hamish Roberts also described Bone as a loveable character around the club.
"He is a bit of a character, and the boys scream and yell, which makes him feel special when he gives us a rev-up," Roberts said.
"It is good for him to be in that environment; everyone looks after him and is patient, which is great to see."
"He is also a good worker and is willing to help out around the club, whether running water or doing other little jobs that need to be filled."
Congratulations, Brad, on your milestone!