Husband and wife Craig Prothero and Kirsty Prothero at the Chip in 4 Craig event in 2023.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Shepparton United Soccer Club paid a touching tribute to late supporter Craig Prothero - dedicating its most recent Seniors fixture to his memory.
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Coming into round four the FV Greater Bendigo League 1 season, the Blues had extra cause for motivation against Golden City SC as the side looked to honour an unsung hero in the soccer club’s history.
A valued member of the wider Goulburn Valley community, Prothero passed away on October 31 at the age of 51.
The sporting figure, who also served as Club Manager at Mooroopna Golf club for 19 years, dedicated much of his free time to a host of interests that were close to his heart.
Such was his standing among his friends and peers that 150 people flocked to Mooroopna Golf Club for the ‘Chip In 4 Craig’ fundraiser in December of 2023 following his diagnosis with Giant Cell Glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer.
Speaking to the News following this heartwarming show of community solidarity, Prothero expressed his gratitude towards those who took part in the event.
“The community of Shepparton should be proud of themselves for how they support people,” he said in a moving message.
Marking six months since his untimely death, Shepparton United seniors players came together to honour his contributions to local sport by playing the game versus Golden City in tribute to Prothero.
“Today we took a moment to acknowledge someone very special to our club,” a club representative wrote.
“This week marks six months since the passing of Craig Prothero, a valued supporter of the Shepparton United Soccer Club family.
Shepparton United SC's senior side came together to honour the life of supporter Craig Prothero.
“Craig, along with his family, has made a lasting contribution to our club over many years.
“The Senior game was played in tribute to Craig and in recognition of his family. We thank them for everything they have given to our community.”
The Blues eventually delivered a spellbinding performance befitting of the occasion as they defeated visitors Golden City in a 6-0 masterclass down at John McEwen Reserve.
The hosts struck first in the 16th minute through Tutu Taya, who doubled his tally with another goal just before half-time.
Following the interval, Roven Shaholli’s charges put the seal on the victory with Rumesh Bartaula hitting the back of the net on four times in the final 45 minutes to secure the match-ball and all three points.
Assistant coach Rahman Kutrolli reflected on a strong all-round display from the Blues in tribute to Prothero.
“Craig and his son Will (Prothero) helped a lot have been great supporters, helping a lot around the club.
“We wanted to do a tribute as it’s close to the clubs heart and out of respect for the family and how much they mean to us.”
“We have been in good form and came into it after a huge game against Green Gully and we were focused on what we needed to do.
“We maintained pressure and wore them down and our defence and midifield was strong - plus we’ve got great depth and the lads who came on put in a great performance.
“We played well without being at our best, it was a good overall team performance to build on the season and looking ahead to the next one up against Shepp South.”
Highlighting the performances of goalscorers Taya and Bartaula, Kutrolli was pleased with their contributions.
“Rumesh Bartaula only came on in the 35th minute and put in a great performance and the two goals from Tutu Taya got us going,” he added.
This emphatic result meant that United remains top of the division ladder, securing a fourth win in as many outings on what was an important day for the club both on and off the field.
Popular across the Shepparton community and beyond, Prothero is survived by wife Kirsty, alongside sons Charlie and Will and daughter Mia.
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