In 2008 the Carlton players purchased a Club membership for a special young boy, Ben Clark. In doing so Ben became the 40,000th member of the Carlton Football Club, in a year in which the Club hit 40,000 members in a season for the first time.

Ben was introduced to Carlton through Challenge - supporting kids with cancer - and was presented with his membership by the players in the change rooms following a training session at Visy Park.

Late last week little Ben unfortunately lost his three-year battle with leukaemia. His funeral service was held today.

Members of Ben’s family said that Ben’s acknowledgment as the 40,000th member and spending a special day at a Carlton game were highlights of his life, and while he faced tremendous battles in recent times his courage and strength never wavered, nor his passion for his beloved Blues.

During his visit to the Carlton match with Fremantle at Etihad Stadium, Ben was treated like a rock star thanks to long-time Carlton and Challenge supporter, Patrick Prendergast.

Hearing about the membership presentation to Ben, Patrick arranged for Ben and his mother to be guests in a superbox for the game, as well as travel to and from the match in a limousine.  To top it off, the Blues took the points against the Dockers on what was clearly a day forever remembered by Ben and his mum.

Everyone at the Carlton Football Club, particularly the players, extend their sincere condolences to Ben’s family and friends.