Geelong AFL Masters Hall of Fame legend Charlie Adornetto will set a new playing record when he lines up for his 500th game of veteran’s football on July 24 at Grinter Reserve, Newcomb.

The games are a combination of Masters games played for Geelong, National Carnivals and other representative games.

Charlie, who turns 69 this year, will become the first player to reach the 500-game milestone for the Masters when he takes the field in an over-55s clash against traditional rivals Williamstown.

“I started playing footy when I was 13 years old and just haven’t stopped. I love the game and the bonds I have built with so many great teammates over the years. I wouldn’t change a day of my footy career,” Charlie says.

“I never thought I’d get to 500 games of Masters. I started playing in 1990 to stay fit and to justify the odd glass of whisky but I definitely caught the Masters’ bug. I have a lot of people to thank for supporting me over my career but none more so than my wife Jane who’s indulged my passion for Masters footy for more than 30 years.”

The July 24 clash will also mark a second milestone for the dashing utility an estimated 900 career games of football.

“Tallying up my junior games with the Barwon Football Club (now known as South Barwon) and senior footy with Barwon and Drysdale; and the 500 games of Masters, I certainly have some miles on the clock. I’m living proof that you’re never too old for footy,” Charlie says

Charlie was last year inducted in the AFL Masters Hall of Fame and is a life member of Victorian Country Masters football and the Geelong Masters.

He has played in more than 25 national Masters carnivals and been named All-Australian 14 times.

There will be a celebration to mark the 500-game milestone at 11am on July 24 at Grinter Reserve featuring current and past players, and a formal post-match ceremony to recognise Charlie’s enduring contribution to Masters football.

Further information: Ben Mitchell 0419 850 212