By Jonathan B Geddes

THIS beautiful family photo shows why it has been more than a  memorable week for Eastern Suburbs coach Ben Bagter ahead of his side’s Shute Shield grand final against Warringah at Leichhardt Oval on Saturday.

He became a dad for the first time when his wife Charlotte gave birth to their son Teddy who was born at 7.13 on Monday evening at Royal North Shore Hospital.

That was the very good reason why Batger was absent from the team’s review session on Monday night ahead of the premiership decider.

“It’s been a bit of a hectic week, l’m a bit tired but it’s all good,” the proud new father told Rugby News.

“I’ll be there for the rest of the week.”

Teddy’s arrival could be a good omen as Easts players now strive to deliver their coach a second successive premiership crown.

“I hope so,” Batger said. “It has obviously made my week pretty special to start off with and I’d  like it continue on for the next seven days.”

Batger has always been an energetic character through his successful rugby journey as a premiership winning player and coach. 

And he has got an extra spring in his step now that he and Charlotte are parents.

“I was pretty chuffed already to be playing in a grand final, grand final weeks are very special,” Batger said.

“To get a grand final week and your first born, I don’t know if many people can say that.

“It’s a little bit different – and most exciting times.” 

The grand final clash between minor premiers Easts and the Rats, who finished second, shapes up as what should be a thrilling finale to what has been a terrific season where some really entertaining rugby has been played.