GENEROUS golfers were expected to raise thousands for a much-loved mate, as two footy codes combined for a great cause.

Players, members and fans of Caloundra Panthers AFL Club and Kawana Dolphins Rugby League Club joined forces at Caloundra Golf Club yesterday to raise funds for Dolphins’ vice-president Neil Espley, to aide his recovery from a traumatic brain injury suffered when he fell down stairs in Sydney in October last year.

While the popular Noosa Hospital wardsman is making miraculous progress in his recovery, 144 players teed off yesterday, organisers tipped fundraising efforts to reach close to $4000 to assist his recovery.

Anita Espley, wife of Neil, spoke of her happiness and gratitude to those making the effort to assist her husband, who has taken giant steps, after receiving a dour prognosis.

“For having such a horrific injury he’s going really quite well,” Mrs Espley said.

via Golfers tee off for a mate | Sunshine Coast Daily.