Helping one of our own Rogan "Guns" Dean
The Ipswich Jets’ Longest Day is about bringing together the senior squad of approximately 40 players, in a competitive environment which will see them work through a series of challenges, that will test their physical and mental resilience. Our aim is to put players into an uncomfortable and new environment to hopefully bring the best out of them by doing things that they have not done before. We want them to work within their teams to encourage, support and help each other. They will have to use a range of skills such as communication, problem solving and teamwork just to get through the course. Ultimately, going through something this hard together, creates a level of respect, comradery and creates a tight unit.
This year’s Longest day will be dedicated to our mate Rogan Dean. Knowing the resilience he has and the tests that he has faced so far, will give our players a level of understanding of what he has been through over the last several months. We want to raise awareness to our players, club, and community that life throws you challenges, but do not focus on the things you cannot control; only focus on the good things you can.
The Rogan Dean Story………To his teammates and the fans, he was known as ‘Guns’, and right now Rogan Dean needs the support of his Ipswich Jets family more than ever.
Towards the end of 2020, the Savige Pest Control Ipswich Jets player had his career cut short when a seemingly innocent ride on his motorbike with a mate resulted in a horrific injury.
A momentary lapse in concentration from another driver resulted in them clipping Rogan’s bike, flipping him onto the road. The force of the accident ended up in a rushed visit to hospital, where Rogan sadly lost his left foot.
Incredibly, it was the only part of his strong body that was injured, but it is still going to be a long road ahead for him, with many ups and downs along the way.
Joining the Ipswich Jets in 2019, Rogan had spent time with the North Queensland Cowboys, the Wynnum Manly Seagulls, and the North Devils. After taking a short break from the sport he loved, he found his new home in the west.
Under the guidance of coaches Ben and Shane Walker, he was the winger that nobody could stop, especially with a physique and speed that delivered 33 tries over 68 Intrust Super Cup appearances.
Described by many at the club at one of the most genuine people you’ll ever meet, this Go Fund Me page has been set up to support him on the long road ahead to recovery, and a life away from the sport he has given everything to.
“This fundraiser will allow everyone to give something back to a bloke that deserves the best,” said Richard Hughes, CEO at Savige Pest Control Ipswich Jets.