Tara Murray
Altona Sports’ Dave Brennan celebrated his 400th game in the perfect manner, hitting a six to win the game.
On Saturday, Brennan became the first player in Altona Sports’ history to play 400 games as he took to the field with the club’s fifth XI in the Western Suburbs Churches and Community Cricket Association division 12 side.
Brennan would finish 30 not out as his side got the win, adding to the celebrations the club had arranged.
Speaking before the match, Brennan said he was a bit embarrassed by all the attention as he’s not one for the spotlight.
“I just hope everyone enjoys it,” he said. “I think a few older players are coming down and it’ll be good to see them again and catch up with them for a beer.”
Since starting at the club in 1989, Brennan has made nearly 7500 runs, while taking almost 160 wickets.
He was an A-grade premiership winning captain at the club and played in five premierships for the club.
In his later years, he captained sides throughout the club to help develop and promote the younger talent.
Brennan joked he was tired when the mention of playing 400 games came up. He said there’s one simple reason that he keeps coming back.
“I always say to my blokes, you play cricket to play with your mates and have fun,” he said. “As long as I keep having fun, I’ll keep doing it.
“It’s about having fun and still being competitive as well.
“Now 35 years later I’m still doing it.”
Brennan said he never thought about going elsewhere to play, wanting to stay loyal to his local club.
He’s seen plenty of ups and downs at the club, with the club bouncing back in recent years and seeing a fair bit of growth. In his time playing, he’s played with more than 500 teammates.
He said it’s his mates that keep him coming back every year.
“I’m a pretty loyal person,” he said. “I’ve still got friends like David Kip who started all these years ago.
“There’s other blokes I’ve played with for years. The club’s always had a good culture.”
Brennan said the 1994-95 A-grade premiership, the club’s first A-grade premiership, was a pretty special memory, having lost a few grand finals before that.
He said having his nephew, Liam Brennan who is now the first XI captain and club president, being part of the club was also special.
As for how much longer he’ll continue to play, Brennan said the answer was easy.
“I’ll keep playing while I’m having fun.”
Meanwhile, Altona Sports top side, which plays in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association Graham Muir Shield beat Hume on Saturday.
Hume was bowled out for just 97, with Altona Sports finishing 3-101 in reply.
Altona Sports sits on top of the ladder after 12 rounds.
