PHIL Voumard has played Saturday bowls as many times as I’ve had hot dinners.
The Kapunda legend’s story of reaching 1000 games of Saturday pennants is nothing short of extraordinary and more than worthy of rolling out a tried and trusted cliché.
The former footballer brought up the magic milestone last weekend and, true to form, delivered on the big stage, helping his side secure a division one win.
According to his clubmates, around 95 per cent of his appearances for Kapunda have been in the club’s top side.
However, the tale of Phil Voumard goes beyond the on-green action.
Interestingly enough, Mr Voumard believes his top achievement across the 40-year period has been helping the club organise and acquire its new facilities.
This speaks volumes to the current Light Citizen of the Year’s character.
Amid a plethora of highlights, Mr Voumard managed to pick out arguably the most selfless effort of the lot.
While Mr Voumard remains ever thankful to the club, there is no doubt Kapunda reciprocates that gratitude tenfold.
He is a prime example of what every sporting club across the country is looking for.
The man has spent 40 years helping to ensure that people of all ages have somewhere to go on a Saturday afternoon.
Weekend sport is a staple of Australian culture and something we tend to take for granted, but the positive effect it can have on the mental and physical health of those who take part cannot be understated.
Grassroots volunteers are in increasingly high demand and worryingly short supply, with some clubs even ceasing to exist due to lack of off-field support.
Therefore, men like Mr Voumard are as good as gold.
Without them, you wouldn’t be able to go and have a hit at the local cricket club on a warm day or shout your support at the local netball team in the winter.
People wouldn’t have a chance to let their hair down after a tough week without club stalwarts like Mr Voumard and that needs to be remembered.
While it remains a remarkable feat inside the playing arena, Mr Voumard’s commitment to the club off-field is just as, if not more, impressive and important.
Every club has their local legend, but 1000 Saturdays – The Bunyip team tips its hat to you, Phil
