UPDATE: In a stunning display of resilience, Chiltern’s Mark Doolan played the entire preliminary final against Barnawartha on Saturday, despite suffering a broken wrist just 10 minutes into the match. Doolan’s courageous performance has left fans and teammates in awe as he pushed through intense pain to finish the game.
Coach Brad Hibberson confirmed the injury occurred around the seven-minute mark, when Doolan attempted to fend off an opponent. “The impact shattered the radius bone and caused serious displacement,” Hibberson stated. Despite the severity of the injury, Doolan’s indomitable spirit shone through as he played on, proving yet again why he is revered in the local footy community.
Doolan, who could not grip the ball due to swelling in his hand, opted to forgo immediate medical attention. Instead, he celebrated with teammates at the Chiltern pub that night, stating he would wait until Sunday for treatment. Hibberson expressed admiration for Doolan’s toughness, calling him a “warrior” on the field.
In a bittersweet twist, Doolan, aged 41, announced after the match that he would be retiring from football. This marks the end of an illustrious career where he played over 100 matches for Chiltern and was a key figure at Wodonga Raiders, winning a club record five best and fairest awards. His legacy includes memorable performances, including his five-goal haul in last year’s grand final against Kiewa-Sandy Creek, solidifying his status as a local legend.
Hibberson reflected on Doolan’s unparalleled contributions to the team, stating, “Mark is a champion footballer in this area for a long time.” His commitment to the game, even at an advanced age for a player, underscores his exceptional talent and dedication. “Not many players still have such a big impact at his age,” Hibberson added.
As fans rally around him, Doolan will be remembered for his extraordinary finals performances, particularly in the last two seasons. His skills as a forward made him a challenging matchup for defenders, and his sharp finishing ability has consistently turned games in Chiltern’s favor.
Looking ahead, Doolan’s future remains uncertain. While some speculate about a potential return to coaching, Hibberson believes he may prefer to focus on fishing instead. “I think he likes his fishing too much now,” he said. Whether on the field or off, Doolan’s legacy as a tough competitor and a beloved figure in the sport will undoubtedly endure.
As the community processes the news of his retirement, fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for this iconic player. Doolan’s impact on the game and his indomitable spirit will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.
