Dale Thomas leaves words of advice for Carlton’s new No.39
Dale Thomas has left a lasting impression at Carlton — literally after leaving a funny message on the inside of his old number 39 locker.
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Dale Thomas has left a lasting impression at Carlton — literally.
The now-retired former Blue penned a message, in permanent marker, on the inside of his old No.39 locker — a welcome surprise for the jumper’s new owner.
That owner is Fraser Phillips, who was recruited to the club with pick No.18 in the rookie draft a fortnight ago.
Thomas, known as a larrikin, had some sound advice for Phillips, but it was of course delivered in his own way.
“To the new #39,” the message begins, “congratulations and welcome to the Baggers.
“I hope, like me you can add your name to the famous #39 locker!
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“A few things to remember: 1. Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.
“2. Support charities just don’t drink wine at charity events! Trust me
“3. When in doubt pull the torp out!
“All the very best, much love”.
The reference of drinking wine at charity events refers to when he was dropped by the Blues this year for drinking up to six glasses of wine two days before playing against St Kilda in Round 10.
New Blue Phillips has already taken on board the Collingwood 2010 premiership player’s advice.
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“I absolutely love it,” he told the club’s website. “I couldn’t believe it when I first opened to the locker and there it was. It was bloody funny.
“I took on board ‘Daisy’s’ comment about hard work beating talent, and I did have a chuckle about best practice at charity events … and maybe one day I’ll pull the torp out.”
Thomas reluctantly announced his retirement from the game after being told he wouldn’t be offered a contract by the Blues for 2020 despite coming off one of his best seasons in navy blue.
He played 258 career games, including 101 for Carlton and was a member of Collingwood’s 2010 premiership team.