Essendon defender Michael Hurley has stepped in to cover the cost of a diehard fan's membership.
Lifelong Bombers fan Jayden Carter, who has been hit by financial hardship amidst the coronavirus pandemic, was preparing for the painful decision to withdraw her membership.
Writing to the club last week, she explained how the crisis had affected both her and her husband's jobs and meant she couldn't pay the majority of her membership fee.
Quickly, she received a response from the club.
“A nice woman by the name of Carla (in Essendon’s membership department) wrote that she had a solution for me,” Carter told Fox Footy.
I’m in a literal outpour of tears.
I contacted EFC in regards to my financial difficulties/paying my m/ship
Received an email back, letting me know a player has ever so graciously offered 2 pay the balance 4 me, so I can continue being a member of the greatest club ever. ❤️🖤😭— Forza Bombers 🔴⚫️ (@jaydeybaby87) April 4, 2020
“Michael Hurley had contacted the club last week and asked if there was a member who was impacted by the coronavirus. She said that my story struck a chord with them so they forwarded it onto him and he agreed to pay the $471 remaining balance out for me."
Carter described the immense relief she felt after hearing the heartwarming news.
“The second I read it I had tears running down my face. I couldn’t talk and I just love the club so much and have supported them ever since I was born. To have that happen, I don’t have words. I’m just so grateful.
“Diehard football supporters would understand. My whole friggin’ year has been made. If we were allowed to hug others, I’d give Hurley the biggest friggin’ hug I possibly could.
“The burden that has been lifted off our shoulders is amazing. My husband and I have been walking around all day cuddling each other. We are so happy and relieved."
