CTV> Check out all the action during the Collingwood Family Day at Gosch's PaddockAfter a successful pre-season campaign, it is clear the Collingwood army is in full force for season 2009.
Over 10,000 Magpie supporters attended the club’s annual Family Day at Gosch’s Paddock on Sunday 15 March.
Jumping castles, slides, remote-control cars, autograph tents and roaming rookies were feature attractions for the Collingwood contingent.
A surprise appearance by club legend Peter Daicos attracted one of the longest lines of the day.
The day officially commenced at 11 am with the assistant coaches running clinics for many young Magpies. Luke Beveridge, Blake Caracella, Paul Hudson and Gavin Brown instructed the aspiring footballers on many of the fundamentals of the sport. Bystanders were attacked by errant handballs and kicks from the budding stars but after a quick word from one of the coaches, the ball flight was back on track.
The membership tent was in high demand with many new supporters committing to a Collingwood membership for the first time.
Club president Eddie McGuire led the crowd in a resounding rendition of the Collingwood theme song before he presented the 2009 playing list on stage.
McGuire held a brief Q & A with the first ten players announced before the rain kicked in.
Leon Davis is looking to feature in five “goals of the week”, forward Sean Rusling “is almost at 100% with his shoulder”, Paul Medhurst declared he felt fit after his first match last Friday night and Shannon Cox desperately wants to cement a spot in the senior side for round one.
Shane O'Bree was welcomed to the stage with the crowd singing "Happy Birthday" as the Magpie veteran celebrated his 30th birthday with teammates and supporters.
With rain descending on the Paddock, players and supporters dispersed from the ground, leaving with a renewed sense of anticipation as the season draws near.
