It was great to see Tommy Brain, James Tyquin and Chris Dee awarded Life Membership at our recent AGM. This week we highlight the massive contribution of Tommy Brain to the Tigers.
Tom was enticed to the club at the end of the 2008 season, by then President Matthew Beasley, after stepping down from the VAFA Board.He had been acknowledged as being a great advocate and supporter of the St Bedes / Mentone Tigers for many years in his various VAFA Board roles and it seemed natural for Tom to come to Brindisi Street.
At that time Tom immediately took on two of the club’s most demanding positions as Football Operations Manager and Club V.A.F.A. Secretary. He continued in those roles for the next 10 seasons. The role of Football Operations in particular demands attention for the entire year, both in and out of season. Where we had short falls in personnel Tom without hesitation readily filled the gaps.
His work was acknowledged when he was awarded Best Club Person in 2016. He continues to have the best interest of the club at heart. Ironically Tom’s original VAFA club, ANZ award him life membership decades ago, As did the VAFA in 2017. All up Tommy has supported VAFA Football for over 40 years.
Tommy is so invested in the club, its players and teams that he is renowned for shedding a tear at the drop of a hat after magnificent wins, critical losses or special occasions.
We will see Tom in a new roll in 2019 when we launch Tiger TV as he continues to participate in supporting the game that he loves.