I have been walking through the gates at Stirling Bridge for over 45 years. Yesterday was probably one of the best.
First port of call was the famous canteen. On arrival I was greeted with megawatt smiles by the very lovely Shore mothers who couldn't be more on point. With the famous pie in hand I ventured to my usual bench to enjoy the sunshine and the action taking place on the oval. The pie was though my main focus and I attacked it with caution, all the while trying to record the nuances of this baked good. The crust was flaky on top and firm underneath. The meat was plentiful but my pie was warm so I could really get to enjoy it. Anyway it was a solid 8. Later in the afternoon I again tackled the pie, not after charming the Shore Mums once again. This time everything feel into place. Crust, meat, fragrance and mouthfeel all on point. 9/10.
At this point you could say this was my highlight of the day (other than the results). But no. It was only the beginning.
To begin the day,
@Squidlips came and found me. We had a great chat about all things work, families, jail cells...etc. A great fella with incredible worldly experience and a deep passion for Shore. It was such a pleasure to meet him. I look forward to round 2. Not long after he left a group of three Shore lads found me. I had spoken to them in 2024 and it was a delight to see them again. As always I was so impressed with level of maturity, respect and knowledge. Not long after a 5th generation Shoreman came and caught up with me. It is incredible that his first family Shoreman played in the 1908 rugby premiership. How very special. There a couple more as well who stopped by for a moment.
At the conclusion of the match I slowly made my way past the Hawker Stand. Here I was approached by a number of boys who wanted to say hello. (No photos please) They were great to meet. All of them once more demonstrated the Shoremen ethos of respect. I was also most fortuante meet a few 1st XV Shoremen who were again incredibly polite even though they felt slightly down. It was delight to meet them including Henry Baxter, who even after 70 minutes of trench warfare, had a warm smile and a firm handshake. Lovely fella.
Yesterday was a highlight and a revelation. In all my years of lurking behind my keyboard I have yet to come across a school that shares so many of the same values of Joeys. Shoremen were exceptional. They gave firm handshakes, warm smiles and engaged in conversation. There was plenty of laughs too. As a teacher it was an ideal for me to produce good men. Shore are doing something right and it was on full display yesterday. Congratulations Shore. You did everything right to make my day worthwhile. (Just get the pies in the warmer earlier please)
