THE annual Sharks Grand Final Luncheon started 35 years ago, and the tradition continues at noon on Friday, October 3 at Cronulla Leagues Club.
League personalities will be on stage to discuss all things footy.
A performance from highly regarded comedian Paul Martell, in addition to raffles, auctions and prize-giveaways points make it an event not to be missed.
In recounting one of the most memorable grand finals in recent history, the 1999 decider between the Dragons and Storm, this year's luncheon brings together the three men from that very game who combined to make it the one of the most talked about matches of all time.
Bill Harrigan was the referee, an unheralded winger for Melbourne Craig Smith was involved in the thick of the action and Chris Ward held the hopes of both clubs at his fingertips as the video referee who had to adjudicate on an incident that would ultimately determine the outcome of the match by a penalty try. The Storm won 20-18.
The three will be on stage and together for the first time since that game some 15 years ago to discuss one of the most dramatic moments in grand final history.
Ward said penalty try; Harrigan agreed. A concussed Smith hit by Dragons winger Jamie Ainscough was helped to his feet amid the cheers of the Storm faithful and the jeers from Dragons fans.
Tickets are $160 each or $1500 a table of 10. Kick-off is noon, full-time at 4pm, club auditorium; details: Kylie Lucas 9527 8279 or klucas@sharks.com.au
