May 25, 2015

Special guests at Lindenow’s clash with Lucknow on the Queen’s Birthday long-weekend (Sunday, June 7) will be treated to pre-match entertainment Sent from my iPhone

Lindenow Football and Netball Club spokesman Chris Daffey it is a coup for the club to get cult-hero King to the region after his retirement from the AFL last year.

He said King was well-known for his fierce attitude on-field but laid-back knockabout style off-field.

“Jake has definitely been a character of the game and done things a little bit differently than others,” said Daffey.

“He was dubbed the Push-Up King for his exploits at a pre-season camp which led to him embracing the moniker and becoming a cult hero status amongst Richmond supporters.

“To repay the support they showed him during his career, once he’d announced his retirement he joined the Tiger faithful at their next game for a few beers in the crowd.

“And last year he gave Joel Selwood a lift to Geelong’s Mad Monday celebrations when Selwood was actually dressed up as Jake.

“He’s really good value and will provide a lot of laughs for the crowd over lunch and at the post-match function at the Bairnsdale Sporting and Convention Centre.”

Tomlinson will be back in his hometown but has signalled that an announcement on his next fight isn’t far away.

Daffey said Tomlinson was a great supporter of the club through his close connection to senior coach Paul Carroll but is also a local role model for young sportspeople.

“Obviously Paul and Will have a connection through boxing and we’ve always appreciated the support Will has given to the club,” said Daffey.

“But Will is more than a supporter to us, he’s a great ambassador for all young people in East Gippsland.

“He’s worked tirelessly to reach the world stage in boxing and he continues to get the best out of himself.

“He’s making an announcement on another fight soon and I’m sure he’s keen to tell the locals what he can about it.

“I’m sure they’re also interested to hear what he’s been up to since his last bout.”

Tickets to the luncheon which is being held inside the City Oval clubrooms from 12:30pm are available for $80 through Joanne Hurley (0400 675 795).

Tickets for the Sportsman’s Night at the Bairnsdale Sporting and Convention Centre are $30 and available directly though the venue (5152 5242).