THEY don't score points, rebound or dish out assists, but they're a key part of the Bendigo Spirit's success.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
They are the club's volunteers.
Every home game a team of up to 20 volunteers can be seen in their blue Spirit polo tops working hard to ensure the day or night goes smoothly.
"For any sporting club it's so important to have a good group of volunteers,'' Spirit board member Ashley Donaldson said.
"We're very lucky that we have such a good group."
Donaldson has been on the Spirit board since the club's inception.
He has seen volunteers come and go, but one group has stuck with the Spirit through thick and thin.
Peter Allan, Les Rodda, Roy Rayner, John Hoiles and Max Hayes have been on game set-up duty since the Spirit's first home game in October, 2007.
"We like to call them Dad's Army,'' Donaldson said with a chuckle.
"They set up the corporate boxes and, up until the past year or so, the signs they had to put up were very heavy.
"I think nearly all of them have had hernia operations."
The volunteers will be there in force again for Sunday's grand final.
No matter the result, the volunteers have played their role in another great year for the Spirit.
Meanwhile, about 100 tickets are still available for Sunday's game via the Bendigo Stadium ticket booth.
Adults are $49.50, concession $35, children $28.
Standing room tickets will become available should the remaining tickets get sold.