Battling clubs show initiative

Ipswich Eagles stalwart Ray Flux (blue and gold shirt) enjoys his 300th game recently before attending to a range of other club duties.

Rob Williams

IPSWICH Eagles officials deserve praise for holding a Team of the Decade dinner to honour its best Aussie rules players and to revitalise club spirit.

It’s those type of initiatives that keep important regional clubs going.

However, sadly, the Eagles typify what challenges many amateur clubs face to survive.

As is often the case, only a small group of dedicated people are doing a majority of the work.

Ipswich Eagles club president Ray Flux is not a man to complain. But he is an honest and passionate bloke who made a valid point when asked about Israel Folau’s recent multi-million dollar defection from league to AFL.

Flux was disgusted the AFL would invest so much into players like the Broncos star while neglecting local clubs trying to develop players and keep afloat.

“The AFL gives us nothing. We pay them,” Flux said.

“It’s a joke to give a bloke who has never played the game that much money, meanwhile we can not afford basic facilities and equipment.”

Flux’s comments in the QT were picked up by ABC radio, who also interviewed him.

A listener from Indooroopilly agreed with Flux and made a $125 donation to the Eagles club.

While it was only a small gesture, it was one Flux appreciated.

Flux welcomes any other help in terms of manpower and financial support to ensure Aussie rules keeps strong traditions in the city.

Running a club is hard work and it’s people like 300-game veteran Flux who provide the backbone.

On game day, Flux can be seen doing everything from manning the bar, to assisting the umpires, keeping scores behind the goal posts and even topping up the ice.

When time allows or he’s needed, he plays for the Eagles Reserves, although he’s starting to wind down his playing career after reaching his 300-game milestone in May.

People who help Flux by running the canteen, setting up on game day, coaching and providing sports training assistance are valuable assets. But a lot more help is needed.

Those close to the Eagles are desperate for a clubhouse with more spacious dressing rooms, rather than the cramped quarters at Limestone Park.

Having decent facilities helps attract more sponsors.

Ipswich team of the decade captain Luke Konstanciak summed it up perfectly last weekend.

“We’re a battling club,” Konstanciak said.

“We don’t pay players, we don’t have the best facilities. You’ve always got to battle.

“But nights like this (team of decade function) are important.”

Flux also hoped the timely get-together provided a boost for the club, especially if some of the Eagles and Ipswich Cats Old Boys get more involved.

The Eagles’ future, like other regional clubs in a range of sports, depends on it.