Sydney FC member Brendan Willey got a big surprise this week after Sky Blues player Rhyan Grant paid him an unexpected visit.

Sydney FC member Brendan Willey got a big surprise this week after Sky Blues player Rhyan Grant paid him an unexpected visit.

A Sydney FC supporter since day one, Brendan became the first member to renew his seat for the 2012/13 season, registering his details just seconds after the memberships went on sale this year.

As a thank you for being the first to renew Rhyan paid Brendan a surprise visit to congratulate him on the achievement.

“I wasn-t expecting Rhyan to turn up. It was quite a surreal moment really. I just signed up as fast as I could,” said Brendan, who is entering his eighth season as a Sydney FC member.

“I love it,” he continued. “Every week I count the days to go to the games. I can-t wait for the first game, it-s going to be big.”

Rhyan was delighted to welcome Brendan on board at his Botany home, by presenting him with a cap and scarf plus a certificate naming him as the first member for this year.

“It-s good to have him back this year and obviously he is pretty keen getting in early,” said Grant.

“It-s important our fans come through the gates and support us, so the more we get the better and we-re glad Brendan has jumped on board.”

Brendan, who admits standing in the Cove and joining in with the singing is the best bit about going to games, says it-s a privilege to be the first member and to receive the award: “It-s pretty big, it-ll go in my pool room. It-s pretty good.”

Grant urged more fans to sign up and enjoy the family atmosphere.

“We need as big a crowd as we can get, to get behind us and support us. I know The Cove are always there and always chanting so the more the merrier and hopefully there-s a lot more members to come.

“If you-re out there thinking about it [becoming a member] then I think it-s a good thing to do, to come along and bring the family. Hopefully people will sign up and we can have a good year.”

2012/13 Sydney FC Memberships are now on sale with Public Transport to and from the game from all over Sydney covered in the Membership price.