When Cats skipper Joel Selwood runs out in Monday's Round 5 blockbuster against the Hawks at the MCG, he will become the 41st person associated with the Geelong Football Club to qualify for AFL Life Membership.
Selwood will play his 300th official game, which comprises 20 pre-season matches, one State of Origin game, two International matches, and 277 premiership games.
Selwood played TAC Cup footy for Bendigo Pioneers and won a host of accolades as a junior, including selection in the All Australian and TAC Cup Team of the Year sides. He also captained Australia in the 2005 International Rules series against Ireland.
Despite a serious knee injury, Geelong selected Selwood with its first pick (seven) at the 2006 National Draft, and he made his debut against the Western Bulldogs in Round 1 2007.
Since then, the 30-year-old has become a three-time premiership player and six-time All Australian (three of those as captain).
Cameron Ling, who captained Geelong to a flag in 2011, sung the praises of his former teammate, telling SEN.com.au that Selwood was pivotal role in changing the culture at Geelong, which helped create an era of great success.
"From the day he walked in the door he helped guide the club forward," Ling said.
"The standards that he sets for himself and for the group has helped take the footy club further and further.
"And, most importantly, he's just a great bloke. You would struggle to find somebody who's met him who has a bad word to say about him.
"He always remembered everyone's name; parents, partners… he'd be the one playing with the kids.
"He's a real gentleman."
Selwood replaced Ling as captain following the Cats' 2011 premiership and has thrived in the role.
He is widely regarded as one of the best and most courageous leaders the game has seen, and now holds the record for most matches as captain of the club.
"That's a remarkable achievement," Ling said.
"He's kept the team right there competing, playing finals, in a system that's designed that when you've had your time at the top you drop off."
Selwood has kicked 155 goals and is averaging 25.60 disposals, 5.26 tackles and 5.28 clearances per game.
