Christopher Chandler will be remembered for his infectious optimism and unwavering support in the walls of the Mandurah City Football Club.
The 12-year-old lost his four-year battle with myelodysplastic syndrome on Monday, June 5, but Mandurah City FC coach Doug Hesketh said his impact on the club would never be forgotten.
“He made his mark on the club and became part of the fabric of the playing group,” Hesketh said.
“He just had such a great spirit. You never heard him complain and he just made everyone around him that much more positive.”
Chris was a promising junior player for the club but was unable to play as his illness developed.
Determined to remain part of the club, Chris took up the role of mascot, and led the team onto the field for games each week.
The young mascot was also a junior ambassador for DT38, a foundation formed to raise funds and awareness for men’s health with a focus on terminal illness.
The club paid a moving tribute to their biggest fan by releasing black and white balloons as part of a pre-game ceremony before their match against Sorrento on Saturday.
Hesketh described the tribute as a fitting way to remember their most loyal supporter.
“It was really moving how the junior and senior players came together,” he said.
“It was obviously a very emotional time for us but it was also a lovely way to honour a kid that gave his all for our club and left a huge legacy.
“Sorrento also pitched in and we’re very thankful for that.”
Mandurah City put in a phenomenal effort against the top-two Sorrento, and fell just short of a win going down 0-1.
“I thought our guys were amazing in what is clearly a very tough time for them,” Hesketh said.
“We played our hearts out. It didn’t feel like a loss.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help Chris’ parents, Colin and Anita, cover funeral costs.
In just four days more than 100 people have donated more than $9000 to the cause.
Hesketh said the support was overwhelming.
“It’s amazing to see so many people digging deep to help out people who have been struggling,” he said.
“Colin and Anita have basically been living at [Princess Margaret Hospital] so any help we or people in the community can give them is invaluable.”
To donate visit gofundme.com/sad-loss-of-christopher-chandler
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
