Pioneer captain’s constant fan base on the road

28 Jun 2013

One of the TAC Cup’s brightest stars has paid tribute to his family’s unwavering commitment to his football career.

Pioneers captain Jacob Chisari made the move to Bendigo from Mildura to aid his development, as he pursues a shot at the big time.

This hasn’t stopped his parents, Wendy and Frank, from driving more than 1000 kilometres every weekend since the start of last season from the state’s north-east, regardless of where in Victoria the game is being played.

“My parents and I made a deal when I made the Pioneers’ list that they would come and watch me play every game,” Chisari said.

“I’m so grateful to have parents who are so supportive. I think it’s an excuse for them to come down and see me as well.”

The 18-year-old’s mother said the family’s business allows them flexibility to hit the road early, well before game day.

“Most weekends, we tend to go down to Bendigo on the Friday and come back to Mildura on the Sunday,” Mrs Chisari said.

“Frank and I drive home fresh and make sure we share the driving most of the time. Sometimes, though, we’ll both spend more time driving if one of us stays behind to watch Matthew (Jacob’s younger brother) play. When that happens, we make sure to take breaks on the way home and don’t drive tired,” Mrs Chisari said.

If Matthew follows Jacob’s lead in making the Pioneers’ Under-18 squad next season, the Chisaris incredible dedication will continue for at least another year.

This challenge could be even greater if Jacob is drafted to an AFL club at the end of the year – in nine TAC Cup games this season, he’s been in the Pioneers’ best eight times.

“We love going to watch the kids play footy, it doesn’t last forever, so we want to make the most of it,” Mrs Chisari said.

TAC Acting Chief Executive Joe Calafiore praised the Chisaris for their commitment to both the TAC Cup and road safety.

"Jacob and his parents are a wonderful example of what the TAC Cup does for regional Victorians,” Mr Calafiore said.

"When travelling long distances like Wendy and Frank do every weekend during the season, sharing the driving and planning the stops ensures they get home safely.”

Don’t drive tired - TAC tips

Heading off on a long drive? Avoid driving tired as fatigue is a common cause of crashes on Victoria's roads.
Like alcohol, fatigue slows your reaction time and affects concentration and decision-making skills which are crucial to safe driving.
It doesn't matter how well you think you know the road or how much further you have to travel. If you're feeling drowsy, pull over.

Tips to avoid fatigue:

• Ensure you've had a good quality sleep prior to a long drive.
• Don't drive at times that you would ordinarily be sleeping.
• Never drink alcohol - even small quantities - before and during long trips.
• Share the driving when possible
• Schedule regular pit stops - at least every hour-and-a-half

For more information contact Nick Price on 5225 7738 or 0439 433 847.