A remarkable chapter in local sporting history will be written this weekend on the Bellarine Peninsula. Mark Stoneham, a revered figure at the Anglesea Football Club, is set to lace up his boots for an extraordinary 500th senior game.
A Lifelong Loyalty to the Roos
Stoneham's incredible journey with the Anglesea Roos began decades ago, forging a bond with the club that has defined his life. His upcoming milestone, scheduled for this Saturday, is a testament to a rare combination of enduring skill, unwavering dedication, and deep community spirit. The match will see the Roos host Newcomb in what promises to be an emotionally charged round of the Bellarine Football League.
Reflecting on the impending achievement, Stoneham expressed a mix of pride and humility. "It's a bit surreal," he admitted, acknowledging the significance of reaching such a lofty games tally. His motivation, however, remains rooted in the simple love for the game and his club. "I still enjoy it... The body is holding up alright, and I still feel like I can contribute," Stoneham said, highlighting the passion that continues to drive him onto the field season after season.
More Than Just a Game Count
Stoneham's legacy at the club extends far beyond the number on a statistician's sheet. He is universally respected as a true clubman, a leader whose influence has shaped the team's culture across generations. Teammates, past and present, speak of his professionalism, his guidance for younger players, and his relentless commitment to the Roos' navy blue and white jumper.
This milestone places him among a very elite group of Australian footballers at any level. To play 500 senior games requires not just exceptional talent, but incredible durability, mental toughness, and a profound love for the club. His career has spanned multiple eras of the game, witnessing changes in rules, styles, and personnel, yet his presence has been a constant, stabilizing force for Anglesea.
A Celebration for the Entire Community
Saturday's game at Anglesea's home ground is expected to draw a large and celebratory crowd. The event is not just a personal triumph for Stoneham but a celebration for the entire Anglesea community and the broader Bellarine football family. Club officials, life members, former players, and loyal supporters will all gather to honour a man who has given so much to the local sporting landscape.
The occasion underscores the vital role of community football clubs in regional Australia. Figures like Mark Stoneham are the heartbeat of these institutions, embodying the values of loyalty, perseverance, and community service. His 500-game journey is a powerful narrative about local sport's capacity to build lasting legacies and forge unbreakable bonds.
As the final siren sounds on his 500th appearance, the applause will resonate far beyond the boundary line, marking the celebration of a genuine local legend and an unforgettable career dedicated to the Anglesea Football Club.
