The Southport Sharks will play the Gold Coast SUNS on Sunday Afternoon at People First Stadium for the Mackenzie Cup.
It will be the third time the SUNS and the Sharks have played for the Cup, which commemorates Dr Alan Mackenzie, who was an influential figure at both clubs.
Affectionally known as “Doc”, Dr Mackenzie served as the Southport Sharks president for 49 years and was involved in AFL in Queensland as a player, volunteer, medical officer, coach, selector and administrator.
He also joined the GC 17 bid team in April 2008 to bring AFL football to the Gold Coast.
That effort was brought to life a year later when the AFL officially granted a provisional Gold Coast Football Club license in March 2009.
Dr Mackenzie served as a board member of the Gold Coast SUNS for ten years and, in 2018, was inducted as a life member of the club, highlighting the substantial role he played in establishing the SUNS.
This Monday, the 13th of May, will mark two years since the unfortunate passing of “Doc.”
The Mackenzie Cup was introduced at the 2022 VFL preliminary final where the Sharks defeated the SUNS by 28 points at Fankhauser Reserve.
Last year, the SUNS defeated the Sharks by two points in a thriller at Fankhauser Reserve.
Sunday will be the first time the contest will be held at People First Stadium.
Ahead of Sunday’s game, Southport Coach Steve Daniel said, “It is always a special day, playing for the Mackenzie Cup which commemorates a special man.”
“Gold Coast is a great outfit; they are always hard to beat, but let’s hope it falls our way on Sunday and we bring the Mackenzie Cup back to Fankhauser Reserve.”
The game starts at 1:05pm and it is free to attend. Public Entry is via Gate 3 from 12:45pm.
To watch the full media interview, click here.
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