Terminal cancer patient’s reaction to meeting the AFL Premiership Cup is everything

The Melbourne Demons’ drought-breaking AFL premiership win in 2021 meant a lot to all the club’s fans — just ask Warren Costabile.

If you think football is just a game, then this clip will show it’s so much more.

Lifelong Melbourne Demons fan Warren Costabile burst into tears upon meeting the AFL Premiership trophy in the most beautiful video you will see today.

The father of two has been battling cancer for the past four-and-a-half years but was recently told he had lost his battle as it spread to his liver.

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In palliative care and spending the rest of the time he has left with his family, Costabile was surprised when he was visited by the Premiership Cup.

The Demons hadn’t won the premiership since 1964 but the tears were flowing on and off the field at Optus Stadium after the 21.14 (140) to 10.6 (66) victory over the Western Bulldogs in September.

A 57-year wait was worth it for Demons fans as the longest drought in the AFL was finally over.

Costabile was overwhelmed as his wife brought the trophy into his room.

All he could say was: “Oh my goodness, what a surprise.”

One of our members, Woz, is in palliative care. He couldn’t get to the cup so @melbournefc ensured the cup came to him.
Beneath all those tears is tremendous joy and gratitude. pic.twitter.com/0dhn7WsEKS

— Demon Army (@DeeArmy) January 3, 2022

pic.twitter.com/4KoAS6xNfq

— WozKat(Warren Costabile) (@WozKat1) January 3, 2022

Later, speaking to 9 News, Costabile said he’d been waiting his entire life for the Demons’ success.

“My wife Katrina brought it through and I completely lost the plot to be honest,” he said.

“It’s an absolute dream come true for me just to witness Melbourne winning a premiership, let alone have the cup.

“To come to the end of my time and have that happen, there are no words, it’s just a bucket list moment.

“For my 45 years being here on the planet it’s been an absolute privilege to be part of the football club.”

Warren Costabile embraces the premiership Cup. Photo: Instagram / chloesacco.cmc

The Demons celebrate the long-awaited victory. Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images

The reaction was swift as the video made its way around social media.

Demons skipper Max Gawn tweeted: “So good.”

Aussie basketball legend Andrew Gaze replied to the clip: “Beautiful. The joy sport can provide can never be underestimated. Well done to all involved to make this happen.”

GWS Giants cheer squad leader Michael Shillito tweeted: “That is special. The emotion and passion there can’t be manufactured – it comes from the heart.

“Well done Demons for making that happen. The joy you gave that supporter is something truly special.

“Thanks for posting, and for doing something so special.

Costabile also took to Twitter to thank those who touched base.

Thank you so much to everyone, I am absolutely overwhelmed by your messages of love & support. And a huge special thank you to @melbournefc@DeeArmy. Warren❤️💙

— WozKat(Warren Costabile) (@WozKat1) January 3, 2022

Costabile’s friends have started a GoFundMe page for the former DJ, having already raised $18,285 of a $20,000 goal at time of writing.