Canberra players viewed inspirational video messages of support from the stars involved in the 1989 premiership triumph on the eve of their own grand final date against the Roosters.
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The club played the personal messages at a team dinner on Saturday night to help motivate the current squad and ensure they retain a link to those who have worn the lime-green jersey during past triumphs.
The Sun-Herald obtained the video message delivered by 1989 grand final hero Steve Jackson, who etched himself into folklore with the match-winning try in extra time. The powerhouse forward wasn't even expecting to play in the decider against Balmain, but pulled off a play that is still one of the most celebrated moments in rugby league history.
At the Raiders' request, The Sun-Herald didn't publish the video until the players got to see it themselves for the first time at their final team dinner.
"Hey fellas. I've been told I've got 60 seconds to show excitement. (Laughing) That's not going to happen," Jackson said in the clip he took on his phone.
"Thirty years back from my grand final in 1989 and I am still reliving it. I was 23 at the time, I didn't realise the enormity of it, how huge it was. I'm 53 now and I look back at it now and other than my kids being born, it's probably the most special day of my whole life.
"Push your life forward 60 years - say you are 20 now and say you're 80 years old. All the special things that will happen in your life in those years, this day coming up on Sunday is probably going to be the most special and biggest moment in your life. Look at it that way.
"Because at the age of 20 you haven't really scratched the surface of how big a day is (about to) happen in your life. This day, Sunday, is so big, so important. Don't let it slip away.
"I had to pinch myself Saturday morning and I shed a tear as I was driving to my chicken shop in the morning (after the team progressed to the decider after beating South Sydney). Did they really do it last night? Yes, they're in a grand final. Don't let this one slide away.
"(Give it) everything you've got and more, it's just the most amazing time. I was one of eight fresh reserves picked in that grand final of '89. I didn't think I was going to get a run.
"If I could offer you anything, do not play the game too many times in your own head. Just relax. You're not going to get any faster or stronger, you're not going to become a better footballer in one week.
"But the mental fatigue and the things that you think about can wreck you. Just relax, let it happen, just enjoy the moment. Be the best player you can be.
"Every individual should have this thought in their mind: 'I am going to be the difference in this football game. I am going to do something in this football game that is going to win it for my mates and my club.'
"That is the attitude we've got to have from every person that is involved with the Canberra Raiders.
"Boys, I am feeling just so great for you, it's such a special time. Our emotions - all those happy thoughts, our crazy thoughts, our sad thoughts - that's our strength. I'm not going to wish you good luck because you make your own luck. You turn up and you give it everything you've got. Just enjoy the moment because I'm going to enjoy my moment. Cheers boys."
Two months ago, Jackson wrote an email to NRL CEO Todd Greenberg in which he told him his life story and requested an opportunity to step onto the ANZ Stadium turf if the Raiders made the grand final. Almost immediately, Greenberg responded in the affirmative.
Now he is impressing upon the current Raiders squad that they too can achieve something that will long live in the memory.
