It was a moment of pride but deep sadness for Mark Hofman, his wife Liz and son Jack, as silence descended upon Maitland Sportsground as the Maitland Pickers paid tribute to much-loved player Harry Hofman.
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Harry died suddenly in October last year, from a ruptured spleen, the result of Epstein Barr Virus. The popular Pickers reserve player was just two months short of his 19th birthday
The Pickers’ reserve and open grade teams joined their Cessnock Goannas opponents and Harry’s family and friends in linked arms as one of Harry’s favourite songs Horses was played across the public address system.
It was a moment when you realised that the Pickers were more than just a sporting team, but a family.
“I felt very proud to see just how loved he was. Sport and the Pickers in particular were such a big part of Harry’s life,” Mark said after the moving ceremony.
“They have been fantastic to us in the support they have given us. His mates have just been terrific.
“They call around and see how we are and let us know what is happening.”
Mark said the pain of losing Harry was in the background of his family’s thoughts every day.
“The quiet moments when you are by yourself are the worst,” he said.
“From the time he was three he was always straight up in the morning with his shoes on and a ball or bat in his hand ready to play.
“He just lived for sport and his mates. Today makes you realise he made an impact in people’s lives.
“They loved him and he loved them.”