The meaning of number 57 at UTF & NC-Michael Van Den Akker
In December 2008, a wonderful young player and member of our Club was killed in a tragic accident,
which shocked and saddened the entire local community more than anything before. Alcohol and driving
were significant contributing factors in the tragedy.
In consultation and with the full support of Michael Van Den Akker's family, the Club has set aside his guernsey
number 57 for several years, as a mark of respect to Michael.
Again with the full support of his family, the Club has had the number 57 designed into an emblem and emblazoned
all football jumpers and netball uniforms with an aim to make all involved with our club conscious of how poor
decision making can have the most tragic of results, and to provide us all with a regular reminder of alternatives
available should any of us find our club mates or friends in a situation where they should stop and think before
either driving or getting into a car which is to be driven by a person who should not be driving
- it only takes 57 seconds to call a family member or friend
- it costs less than 57 cents to call a taxi or get a train
- it takes less than 57 seconds to make a very bad decision
which can have the most tragic of consequences
REMEMBER NUMBER 57 AT ALL TIMES - 57 - STOP, STEP BACK, AND THINK!
