Dear Bulldog Family,
With enormous pleasure and an overflowing heart, I write this letter to you—the players, coaches, fans, and the entire Canterbury-Bankstown community—who have welcomed me, challenged me, and helped me grow in ways I never anticipated. Wearing the blue and white jersey means more than just representing a club; it means carrying on a tradition, representing a culture, and being a member of a rugby league family.
I felt the enthusiasm from the first day I arrived. I sensed the expectations. And, most significantly, I felt loved. You did not only welcome me; you believed in me. As a player joining a proud club with a long history and devoted fans, I understood what it meant to put on the Bulldogs shirt. And from that point forward, I made it my duty to offer everything I had to this team, community, and badge.
Thank you to the coaching staff and club leadership for believing in me. Your belief helped me reach a new level in my gaming. You challenged me to lead, mature, and embody the Bulldogs’ principles on and off the field. You provided me with the skills I needed to grow as a center, as well as the freedom to express myself through instinct, joy, and heart. That trust meant everything.
To my teammates, you are my brothers. We did each training session, each hard-fought battle, and every time in the sheds together. We persevered through the lows, cherished the highs, and remained committed to the purpose of establishing a Bulldogs team that would make our community proud. I’m honored to have shared the field and the adventure with all of you. You helped me feel better, and I hope I did the same for you.
To the Doggies fans, your support is incredible. Rain or shine, win or lose, you came out. You encouraged us with your chants, passion, and dedication. From Belmore to Accor, your enthusiasm never wavered. You are the heart of this club, and your belief in me fuels my desire to give my all every week. Thank you for riding with me, welcoming me as one of your own, and reminding me every game of why this club is so unique.
Thank you to the entire Bulldogs community—the families, the grassroots clubs, the kids who wear my jersey and dream big—for motivating me. Every handshake, discussion, and grin made me feel loved and responsible. Being a member of our club is about leaving a legacy, which I’ve always tried to honor by giving back and setting a good example.
Thank you to the entire Bulldogs community—the families, the grassroots clubs, the kids who wear my jersey and dream big—for motivating me. Every handshake, discussion, and grin made me feel loved and responsible. Being a member of our club is about leaving a legacy, which I’ve always tried to honor by giving back and setting a good example.
No matter where my path leads me, one thing is certain: the Bulldogs will always be a part of my identity. You changed my career and helped me become the guy I am today. For that, I shall be eternally thankful.
With great respect, love, and pride,
Stephen Crichton,
#3,
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs 💙🤍