The Beast from the East deserves a hearty clap this Saturday.
Shepparton East stalwart Jeromy Aynsley will run out for a major milestone against Undera at home, celebrating his 200th club game in Eagles colours.
Loyalty is worth its weight in gold in the mercenary world of country football, and thankfully for Shepparton East, Aynsley has it in spades.
The skilled, hard-nosed on-baller began his senior career at Central Park Recreation Reserve in the late 2000s before establishing himself as a regular contributor during the club’s Picola District Football League era.
Aynsley joined Stanhope in the Kyabram District League for the 2012 campaign, but after a ninth placing on the ladder that year, he decided East was where he truly belonged.
Back at Central Park from 2013 onwards, a champagne moment for the die-hard Eagle arrived in 2016 when he shared PDFL premiership spoils alongside his brother Cobey.
Shepparton East toppled Tungamah 10.14 (74) to 7.9 (51) at Katamatite, with the Aynsley brothers kicking five goals between them.
Cobey may have kicked four of those, but that’s far from the point.
As game number 200 looms for the trusty Eagles midfielder, there’s plenty to say about a man who has served as East’s go-to guy.
Shepparton East Football Netball Club secretary John Weber congratulated the 2016 premiership player and 2019 club best-and-fairest winner on close to a decade and a half of service.
“We welcome ‘Jero’ into the 200-game club, which also qualifies him to receive life membership to the SEFNC,” he said.
“Jero has dedicated a lifetime of football at Shepp East, starting his journey in the fourths and thirds and then progressing through to the seniors.
“Jero should be extremely proud of this milestone, he has been with the club through the good times and also the tough times.”
Weber went on to detail the levels of commitment Aynsley has displayed since first lacing his boots, lauding his behind-the-scenes work to help the club keep on ticking.
“Jero has led strongly as captain, coached the team when required, contributed on the committee and played significant roles in his premiership years, and is also a senior best-and-fairest winner,” he said.
“Importantly, Jero has always had a passion for making the club as strong as can be, be it through working bees, ground/infrastructure enhancements or attracting and recruiting players and sponsors to the club, among many other contributions.
“Jero, enjoy this special day with your family, friends and teammates and make it memorable with a win. Congratulations!”