By Casey O'Connor
Often the expectations and image we as fans build of our sports stars falls a long way short of reality if and when we get to meet them.
That certainly was not the case when Charlotte Caslick attended the 50th reunion of the Stanthorpe and Border Rovers (Tenterfield) grand final clash last Saturday night.
Firstly Charlotte’s flight from Sydney was cancelled, throwing out her schedule. I am sure many others would have said so sad too bad – can’t make it. Not this lady – she grabbed a later flight and drove to Stanthorpe, arriving just as the function started.
She captivated everyone with her charm, her natural and down to earth attitude, her brutal honesty about her sport and how elite women’s sport and women’s sport in general is viewed and funded.
She faced some curly questions in a Q & A session with aplomb, never shying away from a difficult question.
Charlotte surprised everyone by producing her travelling companion – her Rio Gold medal, and everyone who was there can now say they have at least had their hands on an Olympic gold medal, or perhaps even had it around their neck.
No security required for the medal or the lady who continues to dominate women’s Rugby Sevens, just mum Tracy and dad Don who also enjoyed catching up with some old familiar faces.
I have had the pleasure of reporting on Charlotte’s rise through the ranks of sport for almost a decade in this column. She is a naturally gifted athlete who is now a star – the face of her sport in this country and overseas.
To finally meet Charlotte Caslick was an honour and a pleasure and certainly no disappointment. This is a very special young woman.
I’m more of a fan than ever and from a bunch of old footballers a very big thank you, Charlotte. We all look forward to following the next chapter of your success.
