Words: Michael Flynn

Western Pride player Jay Kitching is calling on thieves to return his grandfather’s Socceroos cap stolen from his Bundamba residence earlier this week.

The treasured family heirloom, which was presented to Kitching at Suncorp Stadium on behalf of his grandfather Col, was stolen along with other personal items on Monday night while Kitching was at training.

Col Kitching was a member of Australia’s 1956 Olympic team in Melbourne and the cap is one of few mementos remaining from his time with the national team.

Kitching, who is a Pride foundation player and preparing for his third PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues season at the club, appealed to the thieves to do the right thing and return the cap.

“They can’t sell it and it means nothing to them, whereas it means everything to my family,” Kitching said.

“They broke in through the toilet window and stole a thousand dollars worth of stuff, but this is the only thing that can’t be replaced,” he added.

He said the cap could be dropped off anonymously at the Queensland Times newpaper offices on Brisbane Street in West Ipswich or on his doorstep.

Kitching also encouraged anyone with information about the cap's whereabouts or information about the break-in to contact Booval Police Station on (07) 3282 1320.