Tom Ballantyne receives Australian citizenship with entire Magpies Crusaders squad

While coach Tom Ballantyne’s wife couldn’t make the trip from Adelaide to Mackay for his citizenship ceremony, little did he know his extended family would be there.

Receiving a citizenship is usually a monumental experience for someone to enjoy alongside their family and friends.

Mackay and Whitsundays Magpies Crusaders coach Tom Ballantyne had to confirm his Australian citizenship without his wife alongside him, as Covid-19 border restrictions locked her out of Queensland.

Instead of having his wife at the ceremony, Ballantyne enjoyed the presence of his unofficial family: his team.

“The team organised it as a bit of a surprise, but it was a very welcome gesture by the lads to be there and show their support,” Ballantyne said.

Ballantyne joined the Magpies Crusaders in 2019, after beginning his career in England.

He was a development coach for Cardiff City and Aston Villa in the English leagues, before accepting a role as the head academy coach at Adelaide United.

Ballantyne said he didn’t feel any different being an official Australian, but it was an honour to be recognised as one.

“It feels exactly the same as any other day of the week except the fact I’m now an Australian citizen,” he said.

“It’s like people asking about your birthday, do you feel a day older after your birthday?

“I feel exactly the same except I’m now proud to be an Australian citizen.”

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson performed the ceremony for Ballantyne.

“I’m really proud to have it done here in Mackay, it was an honour to have it done by the Mayor,” Ballantyne said.

“He’s a big fan and comes out every home game to watch us.”