Mandurah City’s 3-1 loss to Bayswater in the National Premier League QBE Night Series may have taken the majority of the spotlight on Saturday night, but behind the scenes after the game Mandurah players gave a touching gesture to their biggest fan.
Christopher Chandler, 12, has been battling myelodysplastic syndrome for the past two-and-a-half years but managed to overcome the odds after a successful stem cell transplant from his mother.
However, Chris is now experiencing side effects from his medical treatment that affect his skin, liver and lungs.
He was admitted to hospital and unfortunately missed Mandurah’s final against Bayswater, meaning the team was without their mascot.
But the players rallied behind him, and in a moving gesture gave each of their runners-up medals to Chris.
“Chris sent us a thumbs up pic and best wishes that his dad Colin showed to the lads before the game, which was awesome and very inspirational,” Mandurah coach Doug Hesketh said.
“After the game the players all gave their medals to Colin and said please give them to Chris with a get well soon.”
Chris leads the team out to games every week and plays juniors for the club.
They are hoping to see him lace up his boots and return to the field as a player in the near future.
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
