Justin Crotty was BORN to play for Therry-Penola.

Dad Tony played for the Lions, then coached the club into A-Grade for the first time before serving as club President.

Mum Vicki is also a life member, having run the canteen for years as the ‘First Lady’ of the Lions, jumping in to help out whenever and however needed.

Uncles Mark, Paul and Rodney have all played for Therry, as have his cousins Jarrod, Brock, Brenton and Hayden.

As a result, Justin grew up around the club, running water with his sister Briana and serving as boundary umpire for the Reserves through his junior years before making his debut for the club in 2001 – just after his 17^th birthday.

Twenty-three years later, having turned 40 last week, he runs out for his 300^th game on a day he will share with all of those family and friends who have played a part in his incredible journey.

“This club means everything to me,” said Justin, with a quiver in his voice.

“Apologies. I’m getting a little emotional. I’ve never really spoken about this before. But looking up on our milestone board, there’s all those legendary names – Castaldi, Lyons, Ecclestone, Bowden, Hollow, Moran, Jones. Being able to add my name to that list is a great honour and privilege. All those names scream out ‘loyalty’ to me. They’re all great Therry names.”

A two-time best & fairest, Justin was a midfielder for his “first 250 games,” before shifting forward in his latter years.

“I’ve always sniffed out a goal, even as a mid!” he said. “I’m not as fast or as lean as years gone by. This year I’ve played every second game. My body can’t keep up with my brain!

“Footy has definitely changed for me over the years. Early on it was trying to be the best player I could be. Then over time it turned into playing with friends – the mateship, the laughs, the ups and downs.”

His last eight years have taken on additional meaning.

“Renee and the kids (daughter Harper and son Jackson) have been amazing. Having them watch and be proud of you is incredible. They come in and sing the song, and Jackson will critique my game!”

His favourite footy memory is the 2013 premiership, which he shared with cousins Jarrod, Brock and Hayden.

“The club’s given me a second family and my direct family a safe place to go. So many memories, so many lifelong friends. Mum will be emotional. She’s been there for all the ups and downs of my career. Dad’s the same. They’ve been my biggest supporters.

“300 to me does mean sacrifice – not only myself, but from my family. Mum and Dad drove me to games and invested so much time. In the back end of my career, Renee and the kids have enjoyed the good times and put up with the bad times. Always there to support me.

“We’d be lost without footy. Harper is playing Under 10’s at Strathmore and Jackson is at Auskick. It would be awesome to see them both in a Therry jumper one day.”

If history is any guide, it’s only a matter of time…