This coming weekend versus the Etobicoke Kangaroos, the Hamilton Wildcats are very pleased to annouce that long-time Aussie veteran Daniel Crouch will be taking part in his 50th OAFL game!!! It seems like just yesterday, that Daniel "Boo" aka "Crouchy" Crouch joined our Club, and we can all definitely remember that day, as he most likely spouted abuse in each of our directions for one reason or another.
"Crouchy" is an extremely talented footballer, who probably came closest to playing in the AFL (Australian Football League) from any of the ex-pats we've been blessed to have on our Club over the years, has done nothing but help boost our Club offensively since his arrival with his booming kick and incredibly strong marking ability. For a guy his size, he's got incredibly deceiving speed, a surprising veritcal and is definitely not shy when it comes to using his body or his voice to apply pressure on the competition. He puts his body on the line every single time he steps over the line, is currently sitting 2nd on the Hamilton Wildcats AFC All-Time Goalkickers Leaderboard (154 career goals, and counting) and definitely wears his heart on his sleeve. Never one to keep his opinions to himself (whether valid or not), I'm sure that over the years "Boo" has rubbed some people the wrong way (even some teammates); but when one stops to listen to what he's actually saying, you can instantly tell that his passion for his Club and the sport in general is unparalleled. He has a great vision for the game and is always willing to help those learning the sport. I personally remember being pulled aside by "Crouchy" on a couple of occasions, and despite initially feeling as if I was being centered-out, I later realized that everything he said was true and that he only wanted to help, because he saw potential for me as a player to improve. I know for a fact, that I am not the only player on our Club that he has done this with, and it's "talks" like these that have been instrumental in the development of our Canadian players over the last 4-5 seasons. Daniel has played a big part in that development, and despite never being the type of guy to take credit for those successes, it's definitely something we owe to him.
From time-to-time, Clubs in our league see talented Aussies travel to Canada to have a kick for a season or 2, share a few beers and a experience new adventure in a different Country without giving much back to their respective football Clubs; but "Crouchy" is definitely an exception to that rule. From the first time we saw him pull on a Wildcats jumper, we knew that we had come across someone truly special, not only as a footballer, but as a teammate and friend. We couldn't be happier to call him a Wildcat, and would like to congratulate "Crouchy" on reaching this milestone v the Etobicoke Kangaroos this weekend. Kudos on 50 games mate, and we hope to bring home the 4 points in honour of your achievement!!!
C'arn the WILDCATS!!!
Last Modified on 17/08/2012 03:34