Peel Thunderbirds honour Madi Molloy with Madi's Day

Madi sadly lost her long fight with brain cancer last week, and was honoured through pre-game ceremonies and the Madi’s Day Cup played between the Thunderbirds and Swan Districts.

Thunderbirds president Ann Fenton said the match and ceremonies were a fitting tribute to Madi’s memory.

“Despite the somber circumstances, it was really just a lovely way to remember Madi,” she said.

“It was incredibly emotional, but a really fantastic way to honour her.”

One hundred balloons were released before the league match, while photos of Madi and a trophy for the game were displayed.

Around 30 members of Madi’s family were in attendance, including her mother, father and two brothers who took part in the pre-game observance.

Fenton said the family being at the ground made a strong impact on the Thunderbirds players.

“It was incredible to have their support – we didn’t expect that many to attend and the girls were in awe of it,” she said.

Fenton also thanked the opposing team, Swan Districts, for their support.

"Swan Districts were absolutely amazing on the day,” she said.

“Usually each reserves side forms a guard of honour for their league team, but when Swans noticed our reserves team forming a guard for Madi’s family they came over and joined us.

“It was very touching.”

While Peel's reserves and league sides were both beaten, Fenton said the result was a small part of the day.

“The day was more about remembering Madi and helping her family through a tough time,” she said.

“The girls gave it everything they had on the field and they handled themselves very professionally.”

Peel also took to fundraising on the day, to help ease the burden of funeral and outstanding medical costs on Madi’s family.

They raised over $3000 on the day.

The Madi’s Day Cup will now become an annual fixture in the WA Women’s Football League and will be played between Peel and Swan Districts at Bendigo Bank Stadium to raise funds for brain cancer each year.