Each week in the lead up to the season we will be profiling a Raiders member from each of our 2015 membership categories. First up this week is Steve who has a seat in the new Club 82 for 2015.
Member Profile: Club 82
Name: Steve French
Membership Type: Club 82
Member Since: 1987
What are the best things about being a member?
I've been following the Raiders since their first trial match at Seiffert in 1982 and in 1986, after standing in the rain with a temperature of about five degrees, I decided I wanted to be sitting with those people in the grandstand.
One of the best things is the people you meet, your fellow Raiders fans, and sit with every home game.
Why did you choose your membership package?
I decided this year to try out the new Club 82 membership, which gives you access to one of the bigger corporate suites. It's great value considering all that comes with the package... the merchandise is great and the injured players will make an appearance at half time as well.
I still kept my seat in the Meninga Stand though, as I'm not quite ready to give up the seat in the crowd and with my old friends.
Why should people who come to the game become members?
It supports the club, it shows your commitment to the team, and it's great value as well. There's significant savings on buying at the gate and you can guarantee your seat.
Who are your top five Raiders players of all time?
The big five: Meninga, Daley, Stuart, Walters and Clyde.
What are you looking forward to in 2015?
I'm looking forward to seeing how the new recruits go, in particular Josh Hodgson and Blake Austin. I always like to see how the young players develop through from Holden Cup into firsts.
Which home game do you look forward to each year?
All of them, wouldn't miss one.
Who are the three Raiders players we should watch this year and why?
It looks like Jack Wighton will find a place at fullback, so it'll be interesting to see how he adjusts and develops there. The signs at the end of this season were good. Plus I'll be interested to see if Mitch Cornish can grab the halfback spot and if Austin can make five eighth his own. It would be great if a stable halves combination can be established.
Tell us about your favourite home game of all time…
There's a lot. The club's first win against Newtown was memorable, as was the first home match played at Bruce, when the Raiders returned as first time premiers to face St George.
Then there's the famous snow game when free pies and coffee were put on for the hardy spectators.
The farewell match for Laurie Daley. But it's hard to go past the sold out semi-finals against the Wests Tigers and then the Sharks.
The atmosphere at both was incredible. The win over the Sharks has to be it, as it was a win. Those games showed which team and sport is number one in Canberra, the whole city got swept up in the excitement and emotion.
What makes you a unique Raiders member?
I helped to light up my building at work in green prior to the 2012 home semi-final.
