Ex-Cronulla Sharks players Chris Quinn and Mitch Healey have fallen back into the routine of spending every other Saturday at Southern Cross Group Stadium.
The pair have traded in their footy boots for sideline seats to cheer on daughters Olivia Quinn, Georgia Healey and the rest of the Sharks’ hard-hitting Tarsha Gale Cup side.
Cronulla’s Under 18’s Women’s team has cemented itself as a front runner in the 2017 Tarsha Gale Cup. The side kicked off the season with convincing victories from Rounds 1 – 4. The Sharks have scored more than any of their competitors, racking up 166 points over just five games.
Olivia and Georgia said that they feel an overwhelming sense of pride to play for the same Club as their fathers once did.
“Rugby League was always a big part of my childhood due to Dad’s history. To be able to follow in his footsteps is an honour.” Olivia Quinn said.
“The team has grown in such a short amount of time, making us a family. We love every single bit of Rugby League and what it brings.” Olivia said.
“It’s honestly a dream! If you asked me a year ago if I would ever play Rugby League, I wouldn’t have thought it was possible. I’m honoured to play with the Club and it’s a bonus I get to follow in Dad’s footsteps.” said Georgia Healey.
After donning black, white and blue through the 1990s, dad’s Chris and Mitch are ecstatic to have their daughters following in their footsteps.
“It’s a wonderful feeling! My son played in the Harold Matthews Cup and Dad worked for the Club. So it’s only natural that Liv would follow on,” Quinn said.
“It’s great. I never imagined that she’d be playing Rugby League! I’m glad she’s been given the opportunity. Georgia’s got good speed and can run the ball well. She’s been able to pick up the contact and defensive side of things,” Healey added.
At present, The Sharks’ squad is preparing for a tough clash away from home against the Raiders at Northbourne Oval. The side is hungry for a Round 7 win in looking to gain confidence in the lead up to Cup Finals.
“We have a great foundation and potential to be among the top teams. At the moment, we are working on our structure and how we implement that in the game.” said Georgia.
“The major focus for the team at the moment is working on our attack.” Said Olivia
Fathers’ Quinn and Healey remained involved with the Cronulla Sharks long after their careers as Rugby League players. Both agreed that while they look back fondly on their time playing for the Club, the current focus rests solely on their daughters and Cronulla’s Tarsha Gale outfit.
“I love the place. I was a local junior. You feel great that you’ve both worn the same colours as your children. It takes me back to when I was young.” Quinn said.
“Now, it’s all about her (Georgia) and our girls, it’s a great opportunity for the team,” Healey said.
Photo courtesy of Olivia Quinn and Emma Rothfield.
