By Ben Carbonaro
The Bendigo Bombers have scored a major coup, with Victorian Premier John Brumby signing on as the club's number one ticket holder.
Brumby accepted an invitation from the Bendigo Bombers today.
He is well-known in the region having worked as a high school teacher in nearby Eaglehawk from 1976-79 prior to his political career.
The Premier was thrilled to be Bendigo's number one ticket holder.
"I am proud to be the Bendigo Bombers Number One ticket holder for the 2009 season," Brumby said.
"I have a great connection with Bendigo and their strong breed of country footy through my early days as a teacher at Eaglehawk High School and as the Federal Member for Bendigo in the 1980s."
He is also a strong supporter of country footy, with the respect and knowledge he has for it gained during his time teaching in the region.
"The Bendigo Bombers, like many sporting clubs across regional and rural Victoria, are the lifeblood of local communities and provide a stepping stone for players aspiring to play at the top level," he said.
"I wish the Bendigo Bombers good luck for the 2009 VFL season."
Bendigo Chairman David Joss said the club was honoured to have the Premier as number one ticket holder.
"We're honoured the Premier has accepted the invitation and we're looking forward to our association with him," Joss said.
"His acceptance of our invitation is a clear indication that we're heading in the right direction and it's a great show of support for what we're endeavouring to do."
Football is a major contributor to communities all over Victoria and with the Premier on board, Joss believes this demonstrates strong support for the game in the greater Bendigo region.
"We also view the Premier's acceptance as recognition of the status and importance of football in this area in general and that's something all local supporters can be proud of," Joss said.
"He regularly visits this area and has a very comprehensive understanding of the social and economic issues which influence rural communities and of the beneficial role which football clubs and in particular, a VFL club such as the Bendigo Bombers can play in local community empowerment and development."
Last Modified on 15/05/2009 16:00