Matthew Pavlich’s former team mates have say the Fremantle captain is the lifeblood of the football club.
Speaking at Pavlich’s testimonial at Crown Perth on Thursday night, his past team mates Shaun McManus, Paul Hasleby, Luke Webster and Leigh Brown paid tribute to the club legend.
McManus, who was at the club when Pavlich was drafted in 1999, said presenting him with his guernsey before his 300th game last year was one of his fondest memories
“It was a touching moment for me to present your playing top,” he said.
“There was no better feeling in my career than standing in the race with you, it was certainly one of my great career highlights.”
Four-time Ross Glendinning Medallist Paul Hasleby said to play more than 300 games so consistently was unheard of in the AFL.
“He is a wonderful play and consistently brilliant,” he said.
Hasleby said Pavlich was one of the reasons why Fremantle has become a respected club in the AFL after its inception in 1994.
“He’s given so much to the Fremantle football club,” he said.
“He is the reason Fremantle is spoken about as being respected now.”
Luke Webster, who played alongside Pavlich from 2003 to 2008, said he set an example for every player, both on and off the field.
Pav testimonial not a farewell function
“He was a true professional in everything he did,” he said.
"What he has been able to do for this football club is incredible…I hold him in the highest regard.”
Leigh Brown, who came to the club in the same draft as Pavlich in 1999, said the pair had formed a lasting friendship.
“Pav is a fantastic loyal and caring person,” he said.
“He’s been a fantastic player for such a long period of time.
“He is still underrated on the east coast.”
