Though it’s
hard to imagine Glenn Archer anywhere other than on a football field,
get ready to see the Shinboner of the Century and 311-game AFL champion
sitting in the stands and watching his local basketball team in 2009. A
Warrandyte resident, Archer and his family have just stepped up to
become Warrandyte Venom’s number one members of the women’s Big V team,
an honour that will no doubt please Glenn and Lisa’s four children.
While youngsters Remy and Jackson are yet to start playing basketball,
there’s a fair chance they will follow in the footsteps of older
siblings Madi and Abbey, who both play with the Park Orchards Steelers.

Having attended last year’s finals series to support the Venom, the
Archer clan is looking forward to taking up their position behind the
team’s bench at home games and supporting the Big V division one team
in its quest to reach a third successive grand final.

“We
really enjoyed the atmosphere last year at the game and the kids love
basketball, so it’s a perfect fit for the family and we’ll no doubt
enjoy some good times out at the games,” said Archer when presented
with the club’s number one family membership pass.

“It’s
good to support your home town and the people of Warrandyte are well
known for being very passionate about their sports teams. Madi and
Abbey enjoy playing at the Steelers and are keen supporters of the
Venom. They were very excited with the news that they are the number
one members of the women’s team.”

Venom
coach Justin Nelson welcomed the Archers on board and said the club’s
decision to have a number one family rather than an individual
highlighted the importance they place on getting the whole family
involved in the game.

“Basketball
isn’t just about the players, it’s about mums and dads getting involved
and spending time with their kids within a safe and fun environment,”
said Nelson.

“We
wanted to have a number one family and one that represented basketball
in the area. While Glenn is known for his football heroics, Madi and
Abbey have basketball running through their veins.

“Warrandyte
Redbacks and Park Orchards Steelers are both great family-orientated
clubs and they form the perfect pathway for players into the Warrandyte
Venom program. I’m really pleased to have Glenn and his family involved
in the game and supporting us.”

And what does Nelson think about leaning on Archer for some advice when revving the senior women up during the season?

“Yeah,
Glenn’s got plenty to offer and I have no doubt we’ll ask him along to
speak with the players and help us prepare for some of those big games
along the way. With the four kids coming along, we could even have a
match between the Venom and the Archers.”

Warrandyte
Venom Big V memberships for season 2009 are now available for $10
(U18), $20 (adults) and $50 (family). Call Lisa Saunders on 9844 1921
to book your membership.