Cleals Face Toughest Test
http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/sport/nrl/story/0,26799,24713526-5006066,00.html
FORMER Manly and Australian forward Noel "Crusher" Cleal had just married his sweetheart Shelly Nickson last month on a rural property outside Orange when he rose to give the traditional speech.
After thanking guests and remarking on Shelly's radiant appearance, Cleal strangely uttered: "Sometimes in life you are dealt a rotten hand of cards. But what matters is how you deal with it."
Only one guest picked up on Cleal's bad vibes - his former coach Bob Fulton. Fulton walked straight up to Cleal and said: "Something's wrong, isn't it?"
Cleal's heartbreaking secret was out - Shelly was battling cancer.
"We didn't tell anyone at the wedding," Cleal said yesterday. "We wanted it to be a celebration. We didn't want people feeling sorry for us. It was one of the best weddings ever too."
A fortnight ago Shelley, 43, underwent a seven-hour operation to remove her left kidney. She will begin treatment next week. Manly has moved swiftly and are planning a fundraiser for Cleal, who played in Manly's 1987 grand final win.
On January 19, fans can pay $40 to watch Manly's grand final win on the big screen at Hoyts, Warringah Mall.
Those with a few extra dollars can bid to sit next to their favourite player while watching the match.
"Manly and so many others have been so wonderful," Cleal said. "The money it will take you just don't find in your glovebox.
"Rugby league is funny. We all seem to fight among each other but all come together as one when something adverse comes along."
Manly chief executive Grant Mayer said: "We have always been, and will remain, a club that looks after its own in times like these." For more information on the fundraiser, call 9970 3000.