It might be the moment that ignites the passion of a future Socceroos great.
That’s how Roar fullback Jack Hingert ( below in action against Wellington in Round 3 ) is viewing Saturday’s historic first Hyundai A-League fixture in Cairns when Brisbane take on Wellington Phoenix in their Round 10 clash.
North Queensland is a region rich in football history and talent – something Hingert experienced first-hand during his time with the Fury.
He expects a strong and passionate turnout for Saturday’s game at Cazalys Stadium with the crowd including many wide-eyed local young footballers.
If the Roar and Phoenix can inspire just one of them to go all the way with their football dream, then that alone would make the match a huge success, Hingert says.
“A lot of people in Cairns and the surrounding region don’t get many opportunities to come to our games which is why it is a great opportunity to go up there and take the game to them,” Hingert said.
“As a footballer, you’ve got to start somewhere. If you watch people who are playing at a good level, that shows you the level you must aspire to.
“Young players can then start working hard towards that goal.”
Hingert got a taste of the passion North Queenslanders have for football during his 27-game stint at the Fury ( below, right ) and saw it again when he made a promotional visit to Cairns several months ago.
“At the Fury, we had the F-Troop . . . they made a lot of noise and created a good atmosphere,” he said.
“Fans in the North definitely know a lot about football and there is a lot of interest there in football.
“It was the same when I was in Cairns recently. We took a walk along the Esplanade and within the first few minutes we had seen five or six kids wearing Roar jerseys.
“There’s definitely a lot of support for us in the North.”
The Roar want to ensure as many fans as possible get to meet the players and there are several autograph signing and photo sessions planned at various locations around the city tomorrow and Thursday.
The Roar’s training session on Friday from 7.30am is open to the public with an autograph session to follow.
Hingert, who has been an ever-present for the Roar in the nine rounds so far this season, says as a youngster growing up in England he could never have imagined meeting his footballing heroes on the street.
“It’s a great feeling to meet our fans, the Roar players really enjoy it,” Hingert said.
“It makes you feel special when people come up and recognise you and the team.
“I’m really excited to get up there again and play in front of these fans and kids. It’s going to a be a really good turnout.”
To secure your seats at Saturday’s game at Cazalys Stadium, click here
