Playing for Family: PARL Honours Loved Ones on Game Day
Sometimes, pulling on the PARL jersey means carrying something much bigger than the game.
On Saturday, 26 September, our teams arrived ready for game day. But at around 8:20am that morning, a message was brought to the team that put footy into perspective.
Ben Jegede, who plays with our Admirals Men’s Open team, had lost his father. When the news reached the group, Nikolas and the boys wanted to stand beside Ben, choosing to wear black armbands in his father’s honour.
It was also a gesture that carried another loss close to the PARL family.
Eary September, the beloved mother of U18 mens Coach PJ Page and Lola of Bailey Page (Admirals) and Leki Page (U18 Mens) - had passed away.
The black armbands became a way to remember both loved ones and show support for the families grieving their loss.
When our U18 Women’s team heard what the men were doing, they wanted to wear black armbands too. What began with one team quickly became a moment shared across PARL. Different squads and different generations, standing together for the same reason: family.
The jersey represents family
Filipino culture has always been deeply rooted in family. It shapes how we support each other, how we celebrate together and how we show up when someone in our community is going through a difficult time.
That is what these black armbands represented.
They weren't about the result on the scoreboard. They were a quiet way of saying: we see you, we're thinking of you, and you're not standing alone.
Our players are encouraged to put community first, while our coaches, managers and support staff are asked to lead with respect, service and genuine care for the people around them.
It reflects one of the principles that guides PARL: unity. Players, families, fans and supporters all have a part to play in the story we're building together.
Playing for something bigger
Behind every player is a family. Behind every jersey is a story.
There are parents, grandparents, partners, siblings and supporters who make sacrifices, drive players to training, stand on the sidelines and become part of the journey.
Sometimes we celebrate together. Sometimes we grieve together.
To Ben Jegede and his family, and PJ, Bailey, Leki Page and their family, the entire PARL community sends its love and deepest condolences.
We were proud to see our players stand together and honour those who meant so much to their teammates and coaches.
May Mesharch (Ziggy) and Venus rest in peace. 🕊️
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