Brave representatives from Riverina football and netball clubs closed their eyes, held their breath and plunged into the depths of an icy cold pool.
Their sacrifice on yesterday’s cold winter day was an example of how Wagga’s sporting clubs band together to support one of their own.
A large crowd gathered for Wagga’s version of ‘Big Freeze at the G’ as a fundraiser for motor neurone disease (MND).
Wagga Tigers held ‘Freeze at Robbo’ yesterday and were supported by other football and netball clubs in their bid to support Neale Daniher, who was diagnosed with MND almost three years ago.
The Danihers have a long-standing relationship with country football in the Riverina many of the brothers are still involved with teams.
Mr Daniher’s brother, Chris, is Mangoplah-Cookardinia United-Eastlakes’s coach and among those who took the plunge yesterday.
“Neale’s touched the football world and I think that’s the main reason Wagga has got on board,” he said.
“It’s a great effort to jump in an ice bath on a day like today.
“It all went pretty quick … I thought it’d be colder.”
Wagga Tigers senior netball club’s Kathy Flanigan was one of only two girls who took the plunge into the “freezing” water.
“I’m all for getting out there and supporting a good cause,” she said.
The club is hoping to raise $10,000 from donations and a raffle.
Those who participated on the day include:
Chris Daniher from MCUE seniors
Michael Irons from AFL Riverina
Matt Malone from The Daily Advertiser
Pat Killalea from MCUE
Jock Currie
Samantha Creasy from MCUE netball
Ryan Chamberlain from Coolamon Football and Netball Club
Nathan McDonald from NAB Bank
Milton Schirmer from Wagga Tigers seniors football
Kath Flanigan from Wagga Tigers seniors netball
