Among the thousands of passionate supporters filling the stands at Sale Sharks rugby matches, there are individuals whose extraordinary actions and inspiring stories stand out. Whether they’ve overcome significant challenges, made remarkable contributions to their community, or achieved great personal milestones, these fans remind us that you never know who might be sitting next to you at a Sale Sharks match.
We are taking time to interact with such people and are asking some questions but overall allowing them to tell their story to a much bigger audience. Today is a bit of a touching story because Graeme recently passed away and his passion for Sale Sharks will never be forgotten. As the Foundation, we were very lucky to meet and work with him to deliver our online Quiz in December and seeing him bring his knowledge of Sale Sharks to life was something else. This interview with Graeme was taken a few months ago and we hope you enjoy reading briefly about what Sale Sharks meant to him. Rest in Peace Graeme.
What inspired your love for rugby and particularly for Sale Sharks?
Graeme: “As a youngster like most, football was my first love. The school I attended was a football school, not rugby. I used to watch the 5/6 Nations on TV but that was my only interest in rugby. I became involved in rugby through my son. He played age group rugby for Stockport (Davenport in those days). This kindled my interest, and I became a regular attendee at Heywood Road from about 1992/93.
I have been a member at Sale FC ever since and a season ticket holder with Sale Sharks since the start of the professional era. My interest in and love for the game and the club just grew and I became an active volunteer for the club, before being a founding member of the supporters’ club in 2004. My involvement and support stretches back 30 years now and is an important part of my social life with great people and great friendships”
How has being involved with rugby positively impacted your life?
Graeme: “
Rugby has greatly enhanced my social life and my social circle. I have met many interesting people and made some great friends. The club encourages interaction between players, staff and supporters bringing a togetherness and family feel to the club. I still meet and talk to several former players who have moved on. Some of the friendships made over the years extend beyond rugby and now form part of my social life.
Another major impact on my life has been following the club home and away, including Europe. This has given me the opportunity to visit places (especially in France) that I would not have otherwise visited.
Lastly, I am proud and honoured to be a Vice President of the supporter’s club which I believe has helped bring supporters and the club together over the years”
How does the Sale Sharks Foundation’s work in promoting rugby and community engagement resonate with you personally?
Graeme: “The Foundation is doing an excellent job using rugby to improve the wellbeing of many youngsters across the community. As already stated, my love for rugby grew through my son’s involvement in age group rugby.
The Foundation is a great extension to what the club is doing in the way of bringing team spirit and togetherness across the community. You only have to see the smile om the young faces to know they are enjoying the experience. Enjoyment but also learning”
Can you share a memorable experience or story related as a Sale Sharks supporter?
Graeme: “It would be easy to pick up the team’s highlights and the winning of the championship and the trophy successes. However, I will focus down a different route.
The creation and establishment of the supporters’ club and the fun we had in the early days of setting it up. It will be 20 years old this year.
I was honoured to be asked to represent supporters on both the Steve Hanley and Mark Cueto testimonial committees. It was a great opportunity to raise money for 2 loyal servants and their chosen charities”
This is just one of many stories we will tell throughout the season hoping to inspire future generations of Sale Sharks fans.
If you are able, please scan the QR code below to make a donation to the Sale Sharks Foundation. Your support will greatly help us in giving back to our communities
