Distance is no barrier for Mudgee’s most loyal Manly fans, Kylie and Sue Mitchell.
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The mother and daughter have travelled over 11,000 kilometres this year alone to support their favourite rugby league team, including a trip to Perth.
Their loyalty was recognised when they were named Manly’s Members of the Year at a recent game at the Sea-Eagle’s home ground, Brookvale Oval.
Sue, a Manly fan since 1971, has handed on her love of the team to Kylie, and together they have followed the team to Melbourne, Brisbane, Albury and every Sydney ground you can name.
“We just love the friends you make, the game day ritual of putting on your gear and driving down,” Kylie said
The pair have missed only one home game this year, due to family commitments. By the time they persuaded their family to reschedule, the game had sold out.
Kylie and Sue accepted their Member of the Year plaque and limited edition Manly 70th anniversary jersey from Brenton Lawrence and Brett Stewart at Brookvale Oval last weekend.
Sue described her reaction when told she had won the awards “ speechless,” “excited” and “honoured”.
Kylie and Sue have followed their team through the highs and lows – including cheering them on to their 2011 Premiership from a front row seat.
And although they love meeting the past and present Manly stars, like Steve Menzies, Jamie Buhler, Jamie Lyon and Brett Stewart, it’s the shared bond with fellow fans which they love most.
“We’ve met a lot of people, so many people, through going to the football,” Sue said.