It may not even be our own mothers. It could be our stepmothers, adopted mothers, aunts, grandmothers or even a father who has taken on the role as both parents.

There is always that argument you hear on the streets each year when events like these, including Valentine’s Day and Father’s Day, roll around:

“It’s so commercial, just another excuse for businesses to make money…”

In response to this, I say celebrate if you like and if you don’t want to want spend money on these days, then don’t.

Back to the day itself: Mother’s Day is always a special occasion. I am not a mother, but have a mother and grandmother who are influential people in my life and have supported me for nearly 26 years.

As sports journalist at The Ararat Advertiser I have proud mothers who e-mail and phone from time to time, informing me of their children’s achievements.

Mothers play a vital role in sporting clubs. They may run the canteen, drive their children to training and matches on the weekend, help out with the scoring and general organisation of the club.

Some also still play sports such as netball, perhaps alongside their daughter. In this day and age, they may even be president or director of the club which is a great achievement and something that I hope to see more of. The opportunities for women to be involved in sporting clubs are endless.

This weekend, you will find many a mother watching their children participate in various sports.

Here in Ararat, we have the Motorcycle Club hosting the Victorian titles and mums will be watching their children compete with hearts in their mouths. There is also the Ararat Cycling Club’s Junior Tour, which I’m sure many would have travelled a fair distance so their children could participate.

Of course, there is also football and netball around the district. Mums and grandmothers will be watching their sons and daughters compete and no doubt be barracking from the sidelines. 

To all the mothers out there, have a wonderful day on Sunday. You may not get an actual present, the generosity from your children may come in different forms – such as they do housework or cook for you – however, I am sure many of you will be recognised for the hard work you do.