For years Lance Thompson was there for his loved ones.
And on Friday, his friends and family were there for him.
A sold out crowd of more than 400 guests made their way to Doltone House, Sylvania Waters as part of a fundraiser for Thompson’s children.
Thompson died in August last year, leaving behind his three children Shallise and twins Laylah and Lachlan.
So, the day before Thompson would have turned 41, his mates came together for them.
A group of Thompson’s friends have created a trust for the children, with the event raising more than $150,000.
Rugby league commentator Andrew Voss acted as the master of ceremonies. Former Sharks and Dragons teammates Paul Gallen, Trent Barrett and Anthony Mundine were the guest speakers alongside legendary boxing trainer Johnny Lewis.
Former Sharks and now Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart was also interviewed.
Thompson’s sense of humour and dedication to his loved ones was a central theme of the afternoon.
Thompson’s parents, Brian and Joan, were also in attendance with Brian delivering an emotional speech.
Event coordinator Mary Kranitis said there had been a lot of love in the room for the man affectionately known as ‘Thommo’.
“With the support of all the companies and friends and strangers alike, Lance’s dream of giving his children the best qualify of life came true,” she said.
“They were reminiscing about the good times that they had playing with Lance and also as a friend, how supportive he was, his sense of humour on field and off the field.
“He was always there for them professionally and as a friend.
“One thing I think that touched everyone was when Lance’s dad said ‘I miss my good mate.’”
A two-time Australian Schoolboys representative and Hurstville United junior, Thompson made his first grade debut for St George as a 17-year-old while still a student at Kingsgrove High School in 1995.
He went on to play 239 games for St George and St George Illawarra including two grand finals – the Dragons’ 1996 loss to Manly and St George Illawarra’s defeat to Melbourne three years later.
He enjoyed a 14-season first grade career, his final three with Cronulla after he joined the Sharks for the start of the 2006 campaign.
Thompson played 38 games in the black, white and blue before announcing his retirement due to an ongoing knee injury as well as being diagnosed with type one diabetes.
Thompson was a fan favourite at Jubilee Oval and Shark Park and also represented City Origin five times.
Donations are still being accepted towards the Lance Thompson Memorial Fund.
St George Bank – BSB: 112 879, Account No. 451 646 57
