Sonya’s speech helps inspire grand final victory
A rousing pre-game speech delivered by the mother of the late James Ackerman, gave Stanley River Wolves added emotion to clinch a historic grand final win.
Sunshine Coast
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A ROUSING pre-game speech, delivered from the mother of the late James Ackerman, gave Stanley River Wolves added emotion to clinch a historic premiership.
In Saturday's grand final, Sonya Ackerman, who lost James after a tackle gone wrong in 2015, spoke about the passion and spirit her son played with.
Ollie Ackerman, James' son, also ran the boys out on the field arm in arm with captain Tom Murphy, while #Ackers8 was printed on the playing strips.
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Wolves coach Rowan Klein, a man responsible for the club's resurgence into Sunshine Coast Rugby League, said her words "lifted" every player in the sheds.
Wolves went on to defeat a plucky Caboolture Snakes 28-16.
"We always wanted the family to be part of the grand final. It was so special," Mr Klein said.
"They've sponsored us the entire year. We wanted them part of the whole ride.
"He (James) was out there with us every week."
Mr Klein said Sonya chose her words carefully and didn't speak for long. But her words left a powerful impression.
"She just spoke about how he played the game. How hard and tough he played. James had a motto for playing for the mate beside you and live by whatever it takes," he said.
"He loved nothing more than playing with his brothers. That's what he called us.
"You just knew if he was beside you, you were in good hands. He'd hit hard with one, carry it hard every time.
"It definitely worked. We had music pumping in the sheds, then when she spoke we were in full footy mode."
It was the club's first year back in the Coast comp in 17 years - something that had the entire small town caught up in a red and black fever.
"I've never seen Woodford so happy," he said.
"It has meant so much, to so many people. Culminating in the win is incredible."
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