Every other day I read, hear or see something in the media, that really makes me think. I think about what the world is today and where it is going. I then worry about what sort of world my children will grow up into. I do hope that with the right guidance from myself and their father and with the help of family and friends that they will have enough sense to know what is right and wrong.
But putting all that aside, today I heard and then read of a disturbing and disgusting act on another human being. Yes I know there is worse. I know that there is blood being spilt around the world. But when this is something in your own back yard to some one who is in many peoples eyes a legend it is hard to swallow.
First let me tell you about this man. His name is Ronald (Ron) Barassi, he was born in 1936 making him nearly 73, and between the years of 1953 -1969 he played in 254 AFL (VFL) Football. Also in that time he played in six premierships. After he retired from playing football he then went on to coach for 30 years with 4 of them being premierships years. He then finally retired from coaching in 1995, and being inducted into the AFL Hall of Fame as an official Legend in 1996. He is well respected by all of the football community regardless of whom he played and coached for. This is very uncommon.
But besides his outstanding career in football he has done many endless hours volunteering and raising money for many causes. He wrote and complied a book about football players who had died in the World Wars, with all profits going towards helping war veterans. On his 70th birthday he celebrated it by walking the Kokoda Trail, (which I have heard is very empowering and draining both physical and mentally). And as of last year he cycled across Mongolia to raise funds for medical research. He has been known to say that he will slow down eventually once a spot comes available in his schedule. To me this man inspires many people and many people are inspired to be like him in many ways.
But on Thursday night while celebrating New Years with family and friends, sitting at a table on the side walk he witnessed a women being bashed. He saw the man run off after attacking the woman, who fell against the table and chairs where they were sitting. Instinct took over and he gave chase to the man. He can’t remember many details however he does remember being on the ground getting kicked. He does know that his actions were a bit silly however he would do the same thing if ever put into that situation again.
But what surprises me about all this is a number of factors, firstly where this happened is a busy and prominent district in town that is known for its many restaurants and most of them have tables set up outside for people to enjoy the summer nights. Secondly why did no one else get up and help, and thirdly to the attacker surely you knew who you were attacking the second time, as Ron Barrasi is no shrinking violet and he is a familiar face, especially considering he is still working with the media and especially when it comes to sport.
And to you Ron Barassi, thank you for caring about others, but I hate to say this but don’t be stupid make a report to police. Someone may just know something, and this guy may get caught.
So yes to me Ron Barassi is one of a kind and will be a hero and legend for a lot longer.
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