An enthusiastic fan day turnout at Ballymore Stadium has ignited a fresh 2025 energy between the Queensland Reds and supporters of all ages.
More than 300 fans gathered in the McLean Stand to watch Friday afternoon’s Open Training session.
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Kids and parents sidestepped to the face painting, jumping castle and food trucks before the swarm of fans joined players on field for an autograph session.
The ad lib nature of the signing session meant fans could get up close and interact with co-captains Tate McDermott and Liam Wright and their teammates.
The training session had intensity as one of the last full contact sessions before the Reds fly out next Friday for their exciting pre-season tour matches against Bristol in Bristol (January 31) and Ulster in Belfast (February 7).
“We came out of the tunnel onto the field and you could feel the energy of the fans straight away,” Reds winger Tim Ryan said.
“It was great to feel it again. They are such an important part of playing at home at Suncorp Stadium.
“It was cool to meet so many kids as well.”
One kid gave a “bark” after getting his jersey signed, a clear indicator that Ryan’s “Junkyard Dog” nickname is going to live on into 2025.
One of the most striking shows of support came from 16-year-old Lewis Grigsby.
He had a custom skateboard deck signed by the squad.
He earned a worthy “A” mark in his Manufacturing class at Bellbird Park State Secondary College for making the skateboard deck from scratch with seven layers of plywood.
Conditioning, painting and a Reds logo finished the striking piece that was much admired by prop Sef Fa’agase and others.
For Link Weatherley, 10, it was a chance to get his jersey signed by his heroes.
“I really like getting the autographs and watching the players up close,” Link said.
“I also like getting advice. I’m a halfback and Tate said you need to practice with 50 passes to each side whenever you train.”
The Reds are using the tour to tune up for a big start to Super Rugby Pacific with their opening match against Moana Pacific at Suncorp Stadium on February 21.
