WAFL: Grand dames of West Perth answer the call

THEY are loyal to the team of the grand old flag.

One comes all the way from Mandurah to barrack for West Perth at its home ground in Joondalup.

Another has been watching the Falcons for 75 years, since they were known as the Cardinals.

And the third is mum of current-day player Nathan Alexandre.

Three women – Pam Ashdown, Kathleen Tompsitt and Jacqui Alexandre – are indicative of Falcons supporters getting behind their debt-laden club in its hour of need.

“I’ve been following West Perth since my mum and dad took me as a baby,” Kathleen told the Weekender at the club’s recent home game.

Her grandfather followed the team and her parents Tom and Katie Karmelich were market gardeners in Osborne Park.

“We lived in Osborne Park among the players; we used to call each other cousins,” she said.

Pam’s late husband Ken played 218 games for West Perth from 1949 to 1961, was a life member and represented his state five times.

“I drive to every game form Mandurah,” she said.

The three will be at Joondalup Arena this Saturday for the Falcons’ Mel Whinnen Hall of Fame tribute lunch and clash with Subiaco.

The players will wear jumpers sponsored by Patersons Securities in a deal struck for the remainder of the season.

People wanting to join the club can call 9300 3611 or donate through the West Perth Football Club Life Members Association: Bankwest BSB – 306058 A/C No – 4197363.