Mines celebrate stalwart
Saturday afternoon's Eastern Goldfields Hockey Association's A2 women's game between Mines and Pegasus was much more than a hockey match, it was a celebration of life.
Mines' second division players got together to commemorate club stalwart Leanne Watts, who died six years ago.
Organised by squad member Kayla Hoddy-Rook, the team donned Watts' famous No.6 as they drew with Pegasus 2-2.
Watts was a fixture at club for almost three decades, first joining Mines in 1980 and representing the blue and whites right through to her death in 2009, winning numerous premierships along the way.
She fulfilled various roles during her time at the club, including a stint as president, and was rewarded with life membership in the early 1990s.
Women's A2 coach Wayne Ace, who served alongside Watts on the club's committee, said it was important to continue to recognise her as part of the Mines family as the years passed by.
"She was an extremely committed club member and absolutely loved the club, and was a really key part of both A1 and A2 hockey at Mines," he said.
"It is adequate recognition for the work she did and how she contributed to the club, because she really went above and beyond.
"The ladies wore the No.6, which was her shirt number and one we've since retired, during the game, which was dedicated to Leanne.
"It was just to remember her and all the things she did for the club and all the things she did on and off the field."
The commemorations were not just limited to the No.6 being painted on the 13 ladies' cheeks.
Stories were swapped among those who knew her, and the game was played in the competitive spirit she became known and admired for.
Ace said it was a fitting tribute to the woman he shared many memories with at Mines.
"I coached alongside her and served on the committee with her and so I know how much work she did around the club," he said.
"I suppose we always celebrate her life through the storytelling about all the great things she did on and off the field.
"The ladies played a good game, and it was a competitive match and something that Leanne would have definitely enjoyed."
