By JOLENE OGLE
THE Coolum Dolphins may have been beaten by the Noosa Lions on Saturday, but the tribute game was a fiery clash that would make any soccer fan proud.
The clash between Coolum and Noosa has always been an intense rivalry, but this game, as a tribute to former club president George Gerbic, was supercharged with an overwhelming sense of sadness as the players wore black arm bands and observed a minute’s silence.
George Gerbic’s charred remains were discovered in bushland at Cedar Creek last September and only identified last week. His partner Lindy Williams, 56, has since been charged with his murder.
George Gerbic’s sons, Simon and Justin, have been involved with the Coolum club for many years and Simon played in the tribute game, last Saturday.
Simon described the game as a fiery clash between the two teams, with lots of big clashes and tackles in the first 20 minutes.
Simon said the passing of his father was felt immensely by everyone at the game, through both the players’ passion and the team supporters.
Respects from the Lions players and heartfelt words from Coolum manager, John Hatfield, after the game in the clubrooms, was a fitting speech to end the night, Simon said.
