More than 500 people have farewelled Bulldogs Legend, Charles (Charlie) Sutton, at a poignant memorial service held at Etihad Stadium this afternoon.
The Western Bulldog community came together to not only pay respect to Charlie, who passed away last week at the age of 88, but to also celebrate his life and contribution to the Club.
Dog’s President, David Smorgon, former players Harvey Stevens, Doug Hawkins, Brad Johnson and current player, Robert Murphy, were among those who shared their stories about Charlie - who was the Captain/Coach of the Bulldogs ’54 Premiership team.
“Apart from Chubb (wife Eileen) and his family, that he loved so dearly, Charlie loved his Bulldogs. And didn’t we love Charlie”.
“He never wavered in his one hundred per cent support for the Western Bulldogs. Charlie was Footscray and Footscray was Charlie.
“The Whitten Oval won’t be the same without our Charlie… Charlie you’re a legend, you’re a Bulldog through and through. Rest in Peace,” Smorgon said today.
Former Club champion, Doug Hawkins, fondly recalled Charlie’s commitment and passion for the Bulldog players, rarely missing a training session during Hawkins 16 -year-career at the Dogs.
“He loved the players of the Footscray-Western Bulldogs with a passion — that’s what made Charlie a legend,” Hawkins said.
While, Brad Johnson, who wore Charlie’s number six, reflected on the impact Charlie had on him and the team.
“Charlie played a big part in my career - no question,” Johnson said.
“For Charlie it was all about team. And that’s why when I did slip the jumper on every single week - there was part of Charlie in that and that was the best part about it”.
The Club will also celebrate Charlie’s life and contribution to the Red, White and Blue during this Sunday’s Bulldogs’ Round 12 clash against Port Adelaide at Etihad Stadium.
The Western Bulldogs will run out with black arm bands in honour of Charlie and will observe a minute silence in advance of the match.
A guard of honour - made up of members of the Sutton Family and former Charles Sutton Medallists (the Club’s Best and Fairest winners) including John Schultz, George Bisset, Ray Walker, Doug Hawkins, Tony McGuinness and Chris Grant - will also form for the players as they take to the field.
In addition, a Condolence Book will be available for Members and Fans to sign in the Past Players Room (Victory Room - Aisle 15).
Members and Fans are encouraged to attend this match to pay their last respects to the man that epitomised the Bulldog Spirit.
