Supporters erected a banner over the boundary fence in front of the Pratt Stand with the simple message; “Thanks Ratts” in a mark of respect for the Carlton champion who will coach the Blues for the last time on Sunday.
The appreciation from supporters was evident at the end of the training session when the supporters broke into applause as Ratten left the ground for the last time in the role he has held since late in the 2007 season. For a number of supporters it was an emotional morning and for all of them it was an opportunity to say thanks and farewell to a Carlton great.
“I am pretty emotional. Ratts has been fantastic for this Club. He was a great player and has done a good job as our coach. It is always hard to say farewell and even more so after his contributions to the club but while disappointed I understand football and appreciate these tough decisions have to be made.
“I just hope it works out well for Ratts and that we (Carlton supporters) are out in force at Etihad tomorrow to give him the send off he deserves,” said one keen Carlton fan at Visy Park this morning.
Another supporter, who was emotional about Ratten leaving, had a blunt message to the players while watching Ratten leave the ground for the final time.
“I just hope the players give him the right-send off in his final game as our coach. They need to play like he used to play and ensure his last game at Carlton is one that he will remember for the right reasons and that everyone can walk away from the season with their heads held high.
“I wish Ratts well for the future.”
Assistant Coach Gavin Brown echoed the thoughts of everyone at Carlton in his media conference after the short training session when he said Ratten had carried himself so well in this last week.
“He has not worried about himself and has got on with the business of ensuring we are ready for tomorrow’s game against St Kilda. If anything he has protected the players from the situation and made sure the coaches and players get on with the job.
Brett Ratten addresses the playing group.
“I can tell you one thing, I would have loved to play alongside him,” Brown said in what is high praise indeed.
“I really hope the Carlton supporters are at the game tomorrow to farewell a Carlton great,” Brown added.
The Blues final game of the 2012 season is a Carlton home game against St Kilda at Etihad Stadium on Sunday September 2, commencing at 1:10pm.
This is a great opportunity for all Carlton supporters to say thanks and farewell Brett Ratten.
