Long distance ruckman

by LES EVERETT

IN 1980 Stephen Michael was at the height of his powers for South Fremantle and on his way to his first Sandover Medal, Justin Madden began his VFL career with Essendon and Neil Smith played his first senior game for Brentwood.

Next Saturday August 14 Smith will represent the club for the 350th time when the C-reserves run out onto Karoonda reserve in Booragoon at 12.15pm.

Smith (43) spent some time with Sunday league team Willetton in the mid-1980s but his commitment to Brentwood is now so deep that he combines his playing duties with presidency of the club.

A ruckman for almost all his career, Smith told the Herald enjoyment was the key to his longevity as is the position he plays.

"I love the freedom of playing in the ruck," he said, "You're accountable for somebody and they're accountable for you."

Smith has observed at close range the great changes in the way Australian rules football is played over the past quarter century.

"Coaching techniques have changed a lot with the emphasis on run, run, run," Smith said. "The stop-start game has gone."

The veteran campaigner said he has adapted along with the game: "I don't go running past too often but I do look for the runners when I get the ball and give it off to them." With a possible finals campaign approaching Smith has no plans for retirement: "There's no reason not to play on," he said, "I wouldn't do it if I didn't enjoy it."

Two other Brentwood players have also reached significant milestones recently. Roger Beer played his 350th WAAFL game and Brett Fox notched his 150th for Brentwood.

From the Fremantle Herald.

Neil Smith will play his 350th game for Brentwood next weekend.

Disclaimer