Gaza stalwart Troy Harvey set to break club’s all-time senior games record with 422

He grew up down the road from the ground and after 30 years playing in one guernsey, this Adelaide Footy League veteran is set to make club history.

A popular veteran will break the all-time senior games record for his club on Saturday as he runs out for the 422nd time in 33 years.

Gaza’s Troy Harvey is still kicking strong for the club’s B and C Grade sides at age 43, and will set a new club record by beating the current senior games tally of 421, set in 2008 by Tony Huemmer.

“It’s definitely surreal,” Harvey said.

“The club is coming up to 119 years, it has a long history.

“I guess when I retire and look back at my time it’s going to feel pretty amazing but at the moment I’m pretty happy to continue playing.”

Gaza Football Club

Harvey started at Gaza in 1989 for the under-11s and eventually made his senior debut in 1995 at the age of just 16.

Three seasons later the Eagles life member made his A Grade debut but sadly missed out on playing in the 2000 premiership side after breaking his arm.

It wasn’t until 2007 until he got the chance to hold up the premiership cup for Gaza’s B Grade team and holds that memory at the club the highest.

“I’ve only played in nine finals all up and haven’t played a final since 2011 so to win that premiership in 2007 is something I’ll always cherish,” Harvey said.

“The club’s been a massive part of my life – I grew up just down the road.

“I just love the club. My two boys have been able to grow up and play here too, which is another thing I can look back on and get real happiness from.”

Gaza Football Club

While he has had an impact on the field, Harvey’s high reputation at Gaza is also due to his dedication to the club off the field.

He coached the under-14 girls side in 2018 and has also dedicated endless hours to volunteering at the club, whether it be running the tipping competition, working in the kitchen or helping out on match days.

“We’re not a huge club and we need a bit of extra help with volunteers every now and then so I’ve just always put my hand up to help out when needed,” Harvey said.

Gaza president Don Rosella was full of admiration for Harvey’s contribution to the club.

Gaza Football Club

“As well as playing 422 games, Troy would have spent countless hours helping around the club,” Rosella said.

“He’s just the ultimate club man and record breaker.”

As far as making it to a 500-game milestone, Harvey said he’d need to play it by ear.

“I wouldn’t say I’m as fit as the blokes 20 years younger than me but I’m still fit enough,” he said.

“Let’s try to think about 450 games first.”

Gaza will take on PHOS Camden on Saturday and currently sits in eighth spot in the C2 division as Harvey continues his quest to play another final.