It is with a heavy heart that I write this week’s Coaches report. As most of you are aware Charlie “ Water Boy” Scanlon died over the weekend in a hiking accident north of Mossman. It would appear Charlie was with three Mates from the University when he fell from a waterfall at Devils Thumb Mountain. Charlie was on an exchange program from St Lawrence University New York and originally from Ohio.

Whilst with the club Charlie became a well liked and respected member of our little community being involved in both on the field and off the field activities. He was better known as “Water Boy” due to his aggressive tackling style, which would put more experienced players to shame. In his short time with us I hope he learned to love the game as we do and to see a side of an amateur sporting organization that many out there would not experience.

We at the club have over the past few seasons seen players from all corners of the globe come and play Rugby with us. We welcome them whole heartedly and enjoy watching them become Mariners before there journey continues back home. Charlie will be sadly missed by the club and by the friends he made whilst here.

The club has decided we will name the Reserve Grade Rookie of the Year in Charlie’s honor, we have also decided to sign a JCU Mariners Jersey to send back to his parents who will hopefully take these as tokens of our appreciation to have had Charlie in our lives all be it a short part.

A memorial service is being held at 4.30 pm this Friday the 12th of June at the University, all club members and associates are invited. Can we please ask you wear your club shirt. Also prior to the reserve grade kick of on Friday night all players will hold a minutes silence on the field to recognize the loss of a Mariner.

Rest in Peace

Charles Brown Scanlon (Water Boy) 6th August 1987 to 6th June 2009

–  Norto

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