The footballer who’s terrified of balloons and has a Smarties superstition
Brisbane Lions vice-captain Harris Andrews has revealed the interesting ritual he performs the night before a big game, and confessed to a rather strange phobia.
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HARRIS ANDREWS
Vice-Captain of Brisbane Lions, 23, Brisbane
How did you cope with lockdown? Pretty well. We, as AFL players, have tighter restrictions in regards to going out in public spaces. I feel like I’ve done a good job in keeping myself motivated and active from a physical and mental standpoint. It was a bit strange but we got through it and it’s good to be back playing footy.
How did your training change during that time? I was lucky enough to train with [fellow Lion] Ryan Lester. We’re allowed to train in pairs, and we’ve held each other accountable and have been fortunate enough to come back pretty fit and healthy. It was a good break to get our bodies right and really put in some hard work.
What is your earliest memory? We were living in Woronora in southern Sydney and we had this big back yard. We were on quite a big hill and I remember my dad would kick the football so it would trickle down the hill and I’d chase after it. I was about three or four.
When are you happiest? After a good team win! The last couple of years it’s been enjoyable to watch the young players come in and get their first wins or playing good games and developing.
What makes you laugh? Puns and plays on words. I really enjoy people who have that sort of humour.
Who do you most admire? My mum and dad. They’ve given me a really good life and have supported me in everything that I’ve done. I’m forever grateful for that.
What’s your greatest fear? It’s a little bit ridiculous, but I don’t like balloons popping. I have all these bad memories of my younger brother in years gone by coming up behind me and popping balloons right next to my ear. I get a bit frazzled when people are pushing on balloons too close to me.
Your pet hate? When grown-ups make baby crying sounds. It’s really strange. And people not being courteous and respectful, like pushing in lines and that sort of thing.
What’s the most surprising thing people wouldn’t know about you? The night before a game, I have a packet of Smarties. I’ve done that probably for the last three years.
What new skill would you like to learn? I would love to play an instrument of some sort. I know a couple of my mates play the guitar so it’s pretty impressive when they’re able to play songs for people.
What’s your most unappealing habit? Chewing my fingernails. I can’t help myself; particularly in meetings. I seem to walk into a room and chew my fingernails.
Who should play you in the movie of your life? I’m going to say Steve Carell, only because I’m watching The Office. I’m definitely not quite as funny as him, but I’d love to see him try and portray me. Maybe John Krasinski from The Office who plays Jim.
What’s your greatest strength? Having an understanding of people’s situations. I recognise that people think about things differently.
And weakness? Impatience. I’ll find myself at the shops and if there’s a big line, I’ll go and do it later.
What song would you like played at your funeral? George Ezra’s Budapest. At my funeral, I don’t want people to be upset, I want a bit more of a celebration to life.
What is your greatest achievement? It’s a huge honour to play 100 games for the footy club. Above our lockers in the changerooms there’s a list of all the players who have played 100 games for each number. Hopefully the first of a couple of milestones.
What’s the meaning of life? I think it’s important to spend time with friends and family, and build strong relationships with those around you. I feel like I’ve done a pretty decent job of that and I’m really enjoying the way my life is going.
Brisbane Lions play Greater Western Sydney today in Sydney at 1.45pm