TWENTY-SIX years ago, a fresh faced 16-year-old took to the field against Tyntynder, playing the first of 400 games for Nyah Nyah West United.
Stalwart Matt Curran yesterday laced the boots up for the 400th time as he led his Demons teammates out onto the field at Nyah Recreation Reserve to help his side to a 105-point win over Lake Boga.
With the veteran excited in the build up, the footballing world sent well wishes to the most experienced footballer in the competition.
Before the match, Curran was excited to take the field and represent his hometown club.
“It is an achievement and not really something you play for, it has been a long time coming and has been great,” he told The Guardian.
I was nervous making my debut. I was only a young man then playing against grown men, it was a nervous time but I was also excited and have enjoyed every single game I have played.
“I didn’t expect to be playing this long and I love getting through it and playing footy, it is great.”
Changes are expected as time progresses, and Curran believes there has been one massive difference.
“Back then it was more physical footy … high marks, long kicks, tough packs and big tackles,” he said.
“Now its skilful, athletic and running.”
Curran was standing talking to other clubmen and women on Saturday chatting about the history of the club, and the club’s two flags in 2000-01 were the highlights Curran continued to rememeber.
Those years helped form the bond with Darwin’s league which has allowed the modern day Demons to bring in key position recruits to boost their chances for a flag.
While conceding AFL games record holder Brent Harvey may have him covered, Curran is unsure when he will hang up the boots.
“I have to see how we go from here, as long as I feel alright I will see how many from here.”
