Helping the boys lift

Supporting the Roosters at home and away is a big part of life for John Zappala and Michael Littlejohn.

The two long-term Chookpen Members were thrilled to be back at a home game, cheering on the Roosters to a 26-12 win at Bankwest Stadium last Friday.
John – who drums along with Joe Aboud at all home games, and at away games when allowed to bring their drums - was providing the beat for chants, and it did not take long for fellow Members to get involved.

Michael and the lucky Members who won a ticket in the Member ballot, responded to John’s beats, providing plenty of support to help the Roosters score the last three tries of the game.

“It is fantastic,” John said about returning to the footy.

“I have been waiting for such a long time and it is a good feeling being back and watch the boys do what they do best.

“I was a bit rusty to start, but then we got into the rhythm and its like we’ve been doing it all year.

“I enjoy the rhythm, helping the boys lift when they need to and encourage the players. It is something we love doing.”

John and his wife Maria have been Members for 10 years, and while the game was great to see the team play live, they were able to catch up with friends they regularly see at Roosters games.

The have followed the Club by watching games on Foxtel, following the team on social media and checking out the Roosters website to keep up to date, but they were very excited to be back among the atmosphere and community of a live Roosters game.

It’s been good to see the old faces again

John Zappala Roosters Member

“It’s been good to see the old faces again,” John said.

“It’s been tough not coming to the games but it is good to see everyone back at the game - hopefully we can get everyone together with a bigger capacity from next week.”

Michael – a 22-year Chookpen Member – said it meant a lot to be back at the game to cheer on the Roosters and meet up with friends.

“It is great to see the boys live again and see some of the (fellow Chookpen Members) that I haven’t seen since last year,” Michael said.

“It’s been very hard. Every weekend I go to the games and see the gang.

“I was so happy when I got the phone call.”

Both John and Michael have been thrilled with the attitude and performances of the Roosters players since the competition has resumed. They hope that all Ticketed Members will soon be able to show their appreciation of the team’s efforts at games.

The win against the Dragons was the second game Members have been able to attend, as some lucky Members were able to cheer on the Roosters to a win over the Eels in round six.

The Roosters and SCG Trust are working with the NRL and NSW Government to allow the Roosters to return to the SCG.

The Club hopes to return to the SCG in round 10 for the grand final rematch against the Canberra Raiders, which hopefully allow all Ticketed Members to attend.

Members are encouraged to check their Member emails, visit roosters.com.au and follow Sydney Roosters on social media to keep up to date regarding access to games.