Fight MND Big Freeze 4: All 18 coaches to take the plunge for Neale Daniher

SYDNEY coach John Longmire says having all 18 AFL coaches involved in the Big Freeze 4 goes to show how significant Neale Daniher and his fight against motor neurone disease is to the game.

SYDNEY coach John Longmire says having all 18 AFL coaches involved in the Big Freeze 4 goes to show how significant Neale Daniher and his fight against motor neurone disease is to the game.

Coaches from every team will take the plunge for Fight MND’s Big Freeze 4 in an extraordinary show of support for one of footy’s most inspiring personalities.

Collingwood’s Nathan Buckley and Melbourne’s Simon Goodwin will be among the first to slide into a pool of ice at the MCG ahead of the Queen’s Birthday clash between the two teams on June 11.

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Now in its fourth year, the televised spectacle has benefited from the involvement of a string of sporting greats and personalities.

“We understand there’s bigger things than winning even though winning is absolutely significant and our priorty during the course of the year,” Longmire told Crunch Time program.

“When you’re talking about a cause like this, for the boys that area actually coaching on the day to be involved is significant, I just think it’s a wonderful gesture.

“Having 18 coaches involved in something like this is significant, not only for the absolute cause MND, which is big, but also the person that Neale Daniher is and the role he had in the Coaches’ Association.

“He’s just a great bloke and what a concept.”

Fight MND campaigner Neale Daniher and Hawthorn coach Alistair Clarkson will take part in the Big Freeze 4 event at the MCG on June 11. Picture: Michael Klein

Daniher said the coaches’ commitment showcased the kind of support rarely seen in any other code. “I have no doubt that because of their involvement it will help raise awareness not only in Australia but around the world,’’ he said

Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson said it was easy to see why Daniher’s fight and his tireless campaign had resonated with so many people. “Neale is a man that I’ve always looked up to and admired,’’ Clarkson said.

“It’s no surprise to me how he has completely committed himself to finding a cure for MND.

“I didn’t hesitate to agree to go down the slide. It’s an honour to be asked for Neale and the cause.”

Neale Daniher has been a driving force behind the nation’s most successful fundraising campaign for MND research since he was first diagnosed four years ago. Picture: Michael Klein

Clarkson said Daniher had always been selfless and invested in others.

“He effectively ended my playing career at the end of 1997 when he wanted to go younger at Melbourne, but gave me my start in coaching the following season. I will never forget him for that.”

Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley said it was an important cause.

“If we can help, we should,” he said. “The MND fight, and the occasion, is bigger than football. There is a sense of purpose wrapped around the day that makes it wonderful to be human.

The Daniher family Ben, Jan, Neale, Lauren and Bec. Picture: Alex Coppel

“It’s also a tip of the hat to Neale, a person who was able to summon the best out of people for a long time as a player and coach and who continues to inspire.”

After Sydney’s victory over Carlton, Longmire admitted he is “worried” about what he might be forced to wear down the icy slide.

Longmire had hoped to integrate a wet suit only to be told by 2016 Big Freeze slider and SEN broadcaster Gerard Whateley that wet suits are banned.

“We’re waiting for some suggestions from a few supporters... I’m wondering if I can get a big enough wet suit and that’s going to be the starting point,” Longmire said.

“I’m a bit worried about it. What a great concept.”

Swans Dane Rampe and Jarrad McVeigh weighed in with costume ideas.

“Hopefully he gets his rig out, he’s got a bit of muscle under there still,” Rampe told Channel 7.

While McVeigh paid homage to Longmire’s nickname.

“It will be good to see the big ‘Horse’ doing that... a horse head, maybe?”

Daniher has been a driving force behind the nation’s most successful fundraising campaign for MND research since he was first diagnosed four years ago.

The result has seen $23.3 million invested in research and care, $6.68 million for four new clinical trials, another $6.89 million in drug development and research grants, $2.47 million invested in much-needed care equipment, and $4.5 million for a world-first drug screening project.

For more information or to donate, go to fightmnd.org.au

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