Month completed: September 2007

I love AFL. Its probably in my top three sports of all time. For those who want to know, I am a Brisbane Lions supporter (ex-Fitzroy if you are wondering why).

So I have been to plenty of games. But never once have I watched a game from a corporate box. Yes I know it is a bit swanky and uppity, you have to wear a suit, and you don’t experience the real atmosphere of the game, but I have always wanted to do it, just once. Thus goal 104 was born.

I was luckily enough, through work, to be invited along to the Geelong v Kangaroos qualifying final in the first round of the 2007 finals series. The Kangaroos went into the game as serious underdogs.

Lunch of scallops and lamb was in the Jim Stynes room on level 2 of the MCG and football legend Tommy Hafey spoke to the group before the match.

At 2.45 it was time for the game to start. One team turned up, and the other forgot to. The end result was a Geelong team handing out a 106-point thrashing.

But the lack of an exciting contest was the only downside to the day. The rest of the elements of a great day were there – great company, great food, and plenty of beverage.

So which is better – corporate box or out with the crowd? Now that I have done both I can finally answer this for myself. And my answer is – out with the crowd. As much I loved being in comfort with food plentiful and drinks flowing, there is nothing better than being surrounded by passionate (albeit often bogan) fans, with a pie in one hand and a Footy Record in the other. Plus, you don’t have to wear a suit.

Nevertheless, this was a fun goal, and highly recommended if you ever get the chance.

Below is a picture of me with Kevin (left) and George (right) from work. Both are Kangaroos supporters, as you can tell by the forced smiles, which hid serious disappointment, given this photo was taken near the end of the thrashing.