Swap of respect

By Brad Kingsbury
RESPECT is something that must be earned in any walk of life and on the football field it is sought by all who compete.
Upon the final siren of Saturday’s Casey Cardinia League grand final that signalled another Pakenham premiership, there was a terrific example of mutual respect demonstrated between two of the local game’s most decorated veterans.
A long forgotten custom was restored to prominence when Doveton star Daniel Charles approached jubilant Pakenham midfield hero Dan O’Loughlin and offered to swap jumpers as a mark of mutual admiration between champions.
O’Loughlin was chuffed and accepted and the pair, who for the past two hours would have done anything to stop the other claiming the ultimate prize, embraced the end of another tough year of competition as sportsmen should.
Named as best afield O’Loughlin, 34, chalked up his fourth premiership with the victory and said he was taken aback at first but more than happy to acknowledge the gesture.
“I’ve got nothing but admiration for Charlesy and I was happy to swap with him. He’s been a legend of the game for as long as I can remember,” he said.
Charles’ career in country football is littered with personal accolades but, like so many champions before him, is still devoid of the one trophy he desires – a premiership – and he was hoping that 2009 was to be his year.
It was the 36-year-old midfielder’s ninth season with his home club Doveton, with those years spread out between stints at several other clubs including Beaconsfield, Berwick and VFA clubs Springvale and Dandenong.
He said the gesture was just one he wanted to make.
“Dan’s a great player and a good bloke. I just thought it was a good idea to swap jumpers. I don’t know how I ever got it on but,” he chuckled referring to the significant difference in the pair’s size.
While O’Loughlin admitted he is yet to decide whether he will play on next year, Charles indicated that he would likely continue to chase the dream.
“I’m disappointed but that’s footy,” he said as he watched the medal presentation with a heavy heart.
“I would keep playing until I’m 60 if I could.
“I love my football and we’ll see what happens next year but I don’t think it’s over yet.”