If you could capture pride in a tank and sell it for a dollar a bottle, the Raiders would be the richest club on the planet.
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When the team came home today, you could see it in the moist eyes of the fans: sheer, bloody pride.
Before the squad's arrival at the Raiders Belconnen ground, hundreds of people of every age, size and colour gathered and shone with it: that pride which glazed the eyes.
Every colour of skin, united by green.
Why was 14-year-old Wincate Otieka there? "To celebrate because they've come a long way in 25 years."
"I'm here to support and wear the colours and just to give them a bit of a lift because they will be feeling a bit low," said her 18-year-old sister, Michelle Anyango.
Why was Jenny Brown there, on crutches because of a knee replacement only four weeks ago? "Because I adore the Raiders and I'm very proud of the way they played.
"I've followed them for 30 years, and because I went to the Grand Final, this was special."
Pride again. "We are a community," said Frances Gardini.
"The fact that we can create an atmosphere that no other team can create.
"Rugby league, in particular, unites people and it doesn't matter what race, religion, colour - rugby league does that."
Why was Rebecca Dunlop there? "Him," she said, pointing at nine-year-old Aidan. "Because the Raiders made it to the Grand Final and I'm so proud."
Sarika Guymer brought her four week old son, Milan, and 10-year-old son Liam "so they can experience what it's like to be part of it all."
Milan in his pram seemed unmoved, not least because all he could see was the pram roof, but Liam was overwhelmed, heading off to buy a Raiders cap.
"I think it shows that you don't need to be a big club to go all the way," their mum said.
Nearly all the way. The homecoming reception wasn't out-of-your-mind raucous and ecstatic. It was appreciative and tinged with the defeat. It felt like a community coming together, proud of what's been done but knowing the task isn't finished.
"We are just here to support and show our appreciation," said Mathew Moananu who had brought his 12-year-old son, Daniel, in a car decked with Raiders colours and with a helmet on the front bonnet.
"They were the best team in the competition. They were young and they'll come back next year."
Hundreds of fans were there, out on the field as the side were paraded on the balcony. Players applauded fans and fans applauded players.
The Raiders were beaten 14-8 in front of almost 83,000 fans at ANZ Stadium on Sunday night. Green dominated the stands and very nearly the score board.
The match was dominated by controversial referee decisions but there was no rancour at the homecoming - just that pride.
"We outshone them," said Raiders chief executive, Don Furner from the balcony at Belconnen.
"It was a great ride. We are looking forward to next year.
"I hope you stay for the ride."
They will.
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