Grovedale Football Club veteran Clinton Ford is on the cusp of a remarkable personal milestone, with his 300th senior match scheduled for this Saturday against St Peters.
The much-anticipated game, however, hangs in the balance due to the weekend's forecasted wet weather, which could see the historic moment postponed.
A Career of Loyalty and Grit
Clinton Ford's journey is a classic tale of local football loyalty. The defender has been a mainstay at Grovedale for over a decade and a half, embodying the spirit of community club dedication.
His career began at the now-defunct Geelong West Football Club in the Geelong Football League. When that club folded, Ford, along with many teammates, made the move to Grovedale ahead of the 2008 season. He has been a cornerstone of the Tigers' defence ever since.
Remarkably, all 299 of Ford's senior games to date have been played in the famous green and gold stripes of Grovedale. This one-club achievement underscores his commitment and value to the team and its supporters.
Weather the Only Obstacle to Milestone
The sole hurdle between Ford and his 300-game celebration is the unpredictable Geelong weather. Persistent rain has already caused chaos with local sporting fixtures, and the ground conditions at Grovedale's reserve are a major concern.
Club officials and league administrators are closely monitoring the situation. A final decision on whether the round 14 Geelong Football Netball League match can proceed will be made closer to game day, with player safety and ground preservation as the top priorities.
If the match is called off, Ford's milestone will be deferred until the following weekend, when Grovedale is set to face Newtown & Chilwell.
A Respected Leader and Clubman
Beyond the sheer number of games, Ford's impact at Grovedale is measured in leadership and consistency. He has served as a vice-captain and has been a guiding figure for younger players coming through the ranks.
His career has seen the Tigers experience both highs and lows, including a grand final appearance. Through it all, his reliable presence in the backline has been a constant for coaches and fans alike.
This weekend, the entire Grovedale community hopes the skies clear to honour a true local footy stalwart. The achievement of 300 senior matches is a rare feat in any competition, highlighting extraordinary longevity, resilience, and passion for the game.
Should the game go ahead, a special presentation is planned to recognise Clinton Ford's significant contribution to the Grovedale Football Club.
