Mark Pitman’s infectious spirit has spread throughout the Kapunda football and netball community.
And it has inspired the ‘Pitty’ Tribute Ball, which will be a celebration of Mark’s life and his huge involvement in football.
Pitman had a vision for a black tie ball for his ‘Bombers’ this season.
But the A-grade coach passed away suddenly last October, before he could see it happen, laeving behind his wife Michelle and two young daughters, Hana and Paige.
Michelle said she was happy to join the organising committee to help plan the May 31 event.
“It has overwhelmed me a bit,” she said.
“Because everyone has been so passionate about it.”
Michelle says it will be a big night.
“For me it will be a celebration of what Mark contributed to football and to the association,” she said.
“And it means a lot to me. It is part of Mark. He loved a party and we loved to dance.
Corey Ryan, a Kapunda A-grade player, is another chipping in.
“It has been on the cards for a few months now,” he said. “We want to do something and do it properly.
“We have based it on the type of event Pitty would have been keen to be part of.
“And we all know he would have been the first person there and the last to leave.”
Proceeds from the ball will go to a trust fund established for Hana and Paige’s education.
A small number of significant items will be auctioned on the night.
One of the most special lots will be Mark’s own Kapunda training jumper, which Michelle and the girls have donated.
“I know it will mean a lot to the boys,” Michelle said.
There will also be Crows, St Kilda and Central District jumpers on the list.
For more inforamtion, and to secure a ticket to the ‘Pitty’ Tribute Ball, contact Kim McGrath on 0401 571 916.
Mark an inspiration
Michelle Pitman says the whole Kapunda Football club has been mourning Mark’s death with her.
“I’m doing it tough, but the boys are doing it tough as well,” Michelle said.
In what is sure to be an emotional changeroom, Michelle plans to address the Kapunda players before they run out for the first match of the season, on Saturday, April 19.
The match, against Willaston, will be the first time in seven seasons the Kapunda A-grade team has played without Mark in charge.
“But I know he’ll be sitting up on that hill watching over them,” Michelle said.
While the ‘Pitty’ Tribute Ball will be a party Mark would be proud of, the Kapunda and Freeling Football clubs have also honoured his memory.
Pitman, who played for and coached both club now has an award named after him.
From this year onward, games between Freeling and Kapunda, where the Mickan-Shanahan Cup is presented, will also have the Mark Pitman ‘best on ground’ award.
There will also be a minute’s silence in memory of Mark before the round three fixture between the two clubs on Saturday, May 3.
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