Orange City Library will host a conversation with Aussie footy legend Mat Rogers to celebrate the release of his autobiography A Father's Son: Family, Football and Forgiveness.
The dual-international in rugby league and rugby union will share his story of triumph over hardship, loss and heartache with Triple M breakfast announcer Neil Gill from 5.30pm to 7pm on Tuesday 15 November.
One of the most talented footballers of the modern era, for a long time Mr Rogers lived in both the shadow and the thrall of his famous father Steve, and their complex relationship shaped him in ways he couldn't fathom. Craving paternal acceptance while determined to carve out his own identity and, later, to avoid repeating the sins of the father, he veered between periods of jubilation and depression, fulfilment and despair.
Mat Rogers A Fathers Son Book Cover
Mr Rogers will visit the Central West to share his inspiring life story with local readers. A Father's Son: Family, Football and Forgiveness, is a powerful autobiography that tells the story of a life framed by triumph and tragedy, a life in which, ultimately, he finds purpose and contentment in a harsh world.
Orange City Council's Services Policy Committee Chair, Councillor Mel McDonell encourages everyone to come along and meet the celebrated footballer.
''I am thrilled that readers and fans can meet the footy legend and TV personality and learn more about his life off the field and the causes he is passionate about," Cr McDonell said.
"I am looking forward to hearing Mat's story of rising above the difficulties that life sent his way and his 'never give up' attitude, which I believe will inspire a lot of people."
People wishing to attend the event should visit Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/author-talk-with-footy-legend-mat-rogers-tickets-452490861347 to book their free tickets.
This event is proudly supported by Collins Booksellers, Orange.
More about the book A Father's Son: Family, Football and Forgiveness
In this majestic, evocative autobiography, Rogers tells the story of a life framed by triumph and tragedy, a life in which, ultimately, he finds purpose and contentment in a harsh world. With its
cracking pace and unvarnished frankness, A Father's Son will be widely read and difficult to forget. ''A book about humanity as much as sport. It's like sitting at the kitchen table with your best mate and he's pouring his heart out - about his life, his loss, his triumphs and his faults…and the love that got him through. Honest, generous, and most of all, courageous'' said the Australian Writer Markus Zusak.
More about the author Mat Rogers
He is one of the most talented footballers of the modern era and a dual international in rugby league and rugby union. But for a long time, Mat Rogers lived in both the shadow and the thrall of his famous father, and their complex relationship shaped him in ways he couldn't fathom. Craving paternal acceptance while determined to carve out his own identity and, later, to avoid repeating the sins of the father, he veered between periods of jubilation and depression, fulfilment and despair.
Rogers' story is one of a man who rises to the difficulties life sends his way. The discovery that his son Max is autistic prompted him and second wife Chloe to co-found charity 4 ASD - and he talks passionately about the work he has done to raise awareness of a subject so close to home.
