Janey
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I hope you don't mind the intrusion, but I wanted to post something about the great man.
I was saddened and quite disturbed to see the picture of Ebert and the accompanying article, as it was obviously that he was not well, it got me thinking... here goes.
My memory goes back to having first heard, as a kid, of the performances of Russell Ebert as WA was leading up to play SA in State games, as his exploits on the football field were richly praised in the media in Perth.
Naturally when there is such a big build up in regards to a player, there is expectations..................he didn't disappoint - skillfull, fair, hard at it, a fierce competitor and someone with a never say die attitude.
But what stood out, for me, above all the above characteristics of his game was this - PRIDE.
Now I am an old fart, but the pride that past players showed when they played for their State was the sort of thing that did and still does, give me the goose bumps.
It was symbolic of the ethnocentricity that comes with the love and regard for the place where you were born and raised.
Further more it was a determination and expectation to represent your community, at what ever stage or level you were asked, to the very best of your ability.
It is in many ways now an emotion and attitude thats been diluted by mobility, in all its social forms.
My late parents and my grandparents ( both sides ), had taught and preached that you should " never forget where you come from " and always honour and respect your forebears, your neighbours and your community, as your actions and behaviour are a reflection on them as well, be that implied or perceived.
Sport is in many ways a microcosm of our communities as we compete with pride ( there is that word again ) and honour when we represent them on the sporting stage, no matter at what level.
When a person makes such a mark, such an impression, such an example of the great and good virtues of sporting life and life in general, then it's impossible that they don't garner RESPECT.
Make no mistake , Russell Ebert is a man strongly revered outside of SA.
I wish him and his family all the best, as I have nothing but admiration for him and I am truely indebted to him, for his contribution towards helping to create the fabric and folklore, that the DNA of Australian Rules Football has given me.
So here is a toast, a nod of the head and much respect from me to a South Australian and Australian Legend.
Lovely words, thanks very much for posting.