Third-generation Lion joins the 200 Club

Sam HIBBINS was destined to be a Collegians great.

A third-generation Lion, his grandfather Lex was a legendary figure at Wesley College and around the club for decades and his great uncle Geoff is considered by many to be the greatest Collegian of all-time.

His brother Jack played in two Under 19’s premierships. His uncle Nick currently coaches the Reserves and is a life member, as is his father Mark, who played, coached and has served as President.

“Dad took me along to games before he started coaching in 2009, and Mum has always been amazing helping out behind-the-scenes, so I’ve been around the club since I was a kid,” said Sam.

“I played a few Under 19 games while I was still at school in 2011, then two seasons in the ‘19s with a couple of senior games here and there.”

Collegians won back-to-back flags in 2011 and 12, so Sam was immediately surrounded by quality players in a powerful team.

“I eventually cemented my spot in 2014 and have never played anywhere else. So the club means a lot to me – a sense of community and enjoyment, but purpose is the main one. I get to hang out with mates three times a week and there’s not many opportunities in life to work together with 30 other people in search of a common goal.”

Sam finally reached that goal in 2023, providing his favourite on-field memory from his 199 games.

“I’d lost three Grand Finals in 2014, 17 and 18 and you begin to wonder if it will ever happen. So when we won the flag last year, I had an incredible sense of relief, joy and satisfaction.”

“Sam has been a warrior for the Collegians football club,” says coach, Jordie McKenzie.

“The thing that stands out for me is his drive to win. He does everything to make himself and the team better. Sam drives the standards of the club, on and off the field, through his voice and actions. His consistency and willingness to play multiple roles for the team is another reason why Sam has earned respect internally and externally.

“There was nobody more deserving to hold the cup aloft as captain of this club.”

Sam recalls the special off-field moments just as fondly.

“Moments after a win in the change room are the best thing, to be honest. Our footy trips and our club parties are special. I’ve always got involved in the social stuff. It’s just as important in a club. You can meet so many different people. We pride ourselves in being open to anyone – that’s a priority for us.

“And I loved playing for the Big V in 2015, 17 and 18. It’s such a fantastic concept and a great way to get to know players from other teams on a personal level.”

Running out onto Harry Trott Oval to play his 200^th game for the club he grew up around will hold special meaning.

“The club has been around for a long time and only forty players have done it. My old man ended up stuck on 198! To play 200 for any club in any sport at any level shows dedication. It’s going to be a great chance to catch up with old mates and we’ll have a function with family and friends after the game, which will be special,” said Sam.

“What Sam has done is not just be part of the Hibbins dynasty, but fully add to it and be a major player in continuing their dynasty at the club,” said past President, Rodney Nancarrow.

“Sam has won two club best and fairests, been captain for five years and has represented the VAFA on six occasions, wearing the Big V with pride. His drive to push the club forward and never rest on his achievements shows why he will go down as a Collegians great.”