Kyneton footballer Ryan Dubens was flabbergasted to find he was $5000 richer on Saturday night.
“I’ve never really won a raffle of any sort … it’s nice to finally win one,” he said when asked how he felt when the news finally filtered through he was the lucky winner of Lancefield Football Netball Club’s $5000 Ball Drop.
In conjunction with Kyneton Crane Hire, the spectacular ball drop took place after the Lancefield versus Melton South football match, complete with entertainments and festivities.
A multitude of miniature numbered footballs were released from a net hoisted high by a giant crane, and excitement grew as they fluttered to the ground.
The winner was the one which finished closest to a specific point.
It turned out to be number 974, one which Ryan Dubens will never forget.
A carpenter by trade, he has played football for Kyneton Tigers in both the seniors and reserves teams this season, and regards the club’s move to the Riddell League as something really positive.
“I bought the ticket when we were playing at Lancefield on Good Friday, never thinking I would be the winner.
“I’d just like to thank Lancefield Football Netball Club and Kyneton Crane Hire, I’ll never forget this.”
There was some consternation when LFNC officials were initially unable to reach Ryan by phone.
He admitted he had been too busy watching St Kilda play in the AFL on television, and didn’t answer … later an excited friend contacted him with the $5000 news.
Kerry Hammond, chief organiser of the novel ball drop, thanked all who had supported the club through the novel venture.
