BY ALEX TIGANI
When reflecting on the Muswellbrook Eagles’ 2021 Old Boys Day, Hamish McTaggart can’t help but smile.
“It was immense,” he told The Hunter River Times this week.
Last season, the Eagles’ celebrated an emphatic 7-2 first grade victory over Medowie thanks to an inspirational five goal haul from Liam Sheppard (joined on the goal-scorers list by youngster Kurt Huber and defender Jesse Legge).
This year a July 2 date has been locked in and the Eagles’ coach hopes his men will enjoy a similar atmosphere once again.
“This day means a lot and it is great to play before the past players,” McTaggart continued.
“Last year we had one of the biggest Old Boys Days in a long time, maybe it was the end to the covid-pandemic that contributed to that?
“It was a real buzz to put on such a performance, see so many familiar faces in the crowd and we hope to do it all again this year.”
For many, the day is a time to reflect on the memories of past players and teammates who have had the honour of donning the Muswellbrook colours.
McTaggart admits he has been privileged to play with many club legends since his memorable two goal reserve grade debut against Kurri Kurri back in 2006.
“I remember playing in first grade that day was Brad Kane and Lee Hogan,” he recalled.
“Brad has been a stalwart of the club and has been a tremendous striker over the years and Lee Hogan has been a great mentor, player and coach that has still had a leading role with the Eagles.
“There are a lot of players in the current group that have played for the Eagles for a number of years and the support from groups’ in years past have continued to motivate us.”
The Saturday AA team will kick off at 1:45pm that afternoon against Hamilton Azzurri.
The two sides battled out a 1-1 draw when they last met in Round 3. Past players are asked to RSVP to br*****@mu**********************.au or via the MFC Old Boy Facebook page.