At the 2018 AGM a third life membership was also awarded to James Tyquin.
We must acknowledge from the outset that this was another case where we were remiss in not recognizing James much earlier.
The club constitution automatically awards life membership on playing 200 senior games.In James case he joined the club as a seven year old in 1994, and played 149 junior games before playing his first U19 VAFA game.Along the way he received Best & Fairest awards in the U14, 15 and 17 teams.
The Russell Logan Memorial Trophy was appropriately awarded to James in his final 2002 MSJFL season. This award recognizes the player, who has come through the age groups, which epitomizes the values we hope truly represent the club both on and off the field.
In 2003 James graduated to the Under 19’s and by mid season had cemented his place in the senior team.He had though qualified for the U19 finals series, and went on to help the team win the premiership that year.
By 2006 his heroics are particularly remembered in the C Section Grand Final against AJAX.Claimed to be one of the best VAFA games ever the side was reduce to 17 players when the umpire sent James from the ground in the opening minutes.Not to be stopped he came back to play a major role in the come from behind victory.Significantly James was the Best & Fairest Runner Up in that C Section, premiership season.
James went on to play a significant role in the three peat, C to A premiership run.He was appointed Senior Captain in 2009 and recognized as Club Champion in 2010.
Last year James play his 200th Senior VAFA game and by the end of 2018, his 363rd club game.A truly magnificent effort.
None of the above fully describes the player or the person.James is a highly talented, game changing on-baller whose style of play breathed leadership both on and off the field.In the big games James stood up at the time it was needed to change the course of a game.His stand out efforts have always been there when it counted, and inspirational to his team mates and club supporters.To do this at VAFA Premier A senior level means he can and could seriously play!
James genuine drive for the club, its teams and players to be the best has always been prevalent.In 2017 he not only played seniors, but coached the U17’s, whilst in 2018 he played and assisted the reserves team as well
Significantly James has shared the journey in part with his two younger brothers Pat and Tommy, also major players in the senior side.Along with mum and dad, Leonie and Mark, they have all given so much to the club and its members.
There is no better recipient of this recognition then James Tyquin.