A SOUTH SYDNEY SUPPORTER

JOSH KEMP – A SOUTH SYDNEY SUPPORTER

I was asked recently what does South Sydney mean to me? It was an interesting question that I really had to think about. 

ABOUT ME

My name is Josh Kemp and I’m 46 years old from the Bankstown area. Born and raised in the area. I have my own Gardening business that I have ran for 15 years now. 

HOW DID I BECOME A RABBITOH SUPPORTER?

So how does a kid growing up in the 80’s in the Bulldogs heartland become a South Sydney supporter? 

Like many others it was passed down to me from my father in which was passed down to him by his father. Quite simply it was in my blood. 

It was never going to be any other way. My father made sure of that. Taking me to Redfern most weeks to watch them play. 

I was hooked. 

WHAT WAS IT LIKE GROWING UP IN THE BULLDOGS HEARTLAND SUPPORTING SOUTHS? 

Growing up and going to school through the 80’s and early 90’s in the Bankstown area meant that you were either a Bulldogs fan or an Eels fan. 

I certainly was a rare case back then being a Souths fan. There was only 2 of us in my year. 

Everyone knew I was a Souths fan. It wasn’t like I ever tried to hide it. When Souths would lose to the Dogs I would cop it the whole week. 

It was a feeling of being outnumbered back then. A much different story these days.

THE BURROW

I have been involved in The Burrow since the start. Before that The Rabbitoh Army and then The Hill Squad before that. 

I have been on the committee of The Burrow for most of its existence. 

Those who go in The Burrow would have no trouble spotting me. I’ll be there bang in the middle starting the songs for all to join in. 

Apart from being on the committee, I start the majority of the songs. Try and get as many people to sing along to get behind the boys out on the field. 

Also over the years I have helped prepare and at times make the banners. 

WHAT DO THE RABBITOHS MEAN TO ME?

When I think back of the impact that this club has had on my life it just shows how important this club is to me. It’s an extended part of my family. 

Until Covid hit I wouldn’t miss a game. I haven’t missed a Covid affected game since 2010. 

My mood is often determined by the result of a game. I think many others can say the same. 

The friendships I have made through the years supporting this club. Many lifelong friends. I also met my partner through Souths as well. 

It is safe to say that South Sydney has been a great part of my life. 

A SOUTH SYDNEY SUPPORTER

By Josh Kemp for Bunnies TV.