Sturt captain Zane Kirkwood to play his 200th league game in SANFL
Sturt captain Zane Kirkwood is among the most decorated players in SANFL history and he is on the verge of another significant feat.
Former Sturt coach Seamus Maloney needed just one training session back in 2014 to know the club had backed a massive winner signing Zane Kirkwood from Port Adelaide.
His new teammates were well aware of his talents as an opponent, but a few of the older players were quick to tell Maloney the club had lured a “ripper” given the intensity he attacked the session.
And it took only one game for those opinions to be confirmed.
In doubt for the season opener against Glenelg after being concussed in a practice game, Kirkwood not only got the all clear to front the Tigers, he picked up 40 possessions in a stunning performance to earn the three Magarey Medal votes.
“When he started training with us we thought ‘wow, we have a ripper here’, he was such a leader by how he acted and trained,” Maloney said.
“One training session in and we knew we had an absolute winner, everyone loved him. He was a quiet fella and did not impose himself with the loudest voice, it was all through effort.
“He was very respectful of everyone and did things you hope juniors coming through might do. To come from another club as a big recruit was unbelievable.”
Such was the impact Kirkwood had on the Double Blues in his first season at Unley Oval, he earned the first of two Magarey Medals. He captained the club to the 2016 and 2017 flags, led the state team twice and has won three Fos Williams Medals and four best and fairest awards.
And on Saturday he will achieve another significant feat when he makes his 200th league appearance in the clash against Central District at Elizabeth Oval.
“It will be special on Saturday, but I was talking to a former coach Tony Bamford and he said I’d appreciate it more when I’m finished,” Kirkwood said.
The midfielder joined the Double Blues with another former Port player Kory Beard and they felt like they needed to prove something after being given a fresh start.
There was also the desire to play finals, something which had eluded them at Port.
“We were welcomed with open arms and that made us feel comfortable,” Kirkwood said. “Jack Stephens and Fraser Evans for me, Tom Harms helped Beardy a lot although they went to school together. John Greenslade, there were plenty who helped us settle in and made the transition easier.
“I would not change a thing, Sturt is definitely my home and I’m grateful for the opportunity they have given me.”