Navarre footballer Luke Bibby will achieve a rare feat this weekend, running out to play his 300th match.
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Bibby, 37, started his playing career with the Grasshoppers in 1993. He capped off his first season with a premiership in the under-16 division.
More than 25 years on and Bibby is still running around in the green and gold for the club he loves.
Bibby said the family aspect of the club is what keeps him coming back year in, year out.
“I think for me the club is all about family,” he said.
“My father, uncles, grandmother and so many other relatives have been involved with the club for such a long amount of time that it was just natural for me to become involved too.
“I am Navarre born and bred, through and through.”
Bibby began playing seniors matches at 15 years old and only had to wait three more years until 1999 to play in his first senior premiership.
The Grasshoppers defeated Carnham-Linton to claim the Lexton Plains League premiership in their first season in the competition.
Bibby said that premiership win has been the biggest highlight of his playing career.
“That senior premiership is probably the most memorable moment for me,” he said.
“Also playing in a junior flag in my first year of footy was pretty special. I have only played in those two premierships so I cherish them a lot.
“In recent times it has also been really rewarding for everyone involved with the club to see such success. Four flags in a row was an absolutely huge achievement.”
Bibby has played multiple off-field roles for Navarre in his time with the club, coaching the reserves side for five years. He is also a current member of Navarre’s committee, sitting as the club’s secretary.
There was slight confusion surrounding Bibby’s 300th appearance, with many believing he brought it up in last weekend’s reserves game against Harcourt – where he was best on ground.
He said he will “definitely” bring up the milestone this weekend.
“I was put down on a team sheet where I didn’t play last year so technically this weekend’s game will be my 300th,” he said.
Bibby will run out for his 300th match in front of a big home crowd against old rivals Lexton in the reserves this weekend.
“We haven’t had too many wins on the board this season so it would be nice to get a win and celebrate with everyone,” he said.
“I am quite honoured to be apart of the 300-club and be among some great names of the club like Jack Bibby.
“I am happy my body has held up enough for me to be able to make it to 300.”
