Damien Cleary set to break VAFA games record

Ormond’s Damien Cleary will break the VAFA games record this weekend but for all his on field achievements, it is off the field where he has had the greatest impact, writes BRAYDEN MAY.

Damien Cleary is set to break the VAFA's games record.

People around Ormond Amateur Football Club say when Damien Cleary speaks, “wise words” usually come from his mouth.

He’s not speaking to make the place better himself but for others.

Long time Ormond volunteer Greg Holman describes him as a “good thinker” and says “when he does speak it is worth listening”.

Since arriving at the club in 1995, Cleary has been a player, committee member, coach, volunteer and team manager. He’s done just about everything to help others and he’s never wanted any recognition.

But this weekend will be all about the man known as “Pisto‘’, shortened from Pistons due to his running style, as he prepares to break the VAFA’s games record.

Cleary will overtake Old Peninsula legend Shaun Payze (430 games) when he runs out for the Monders on Saturday afternoon.

Along the way he estimates he’s had over 2000 mates.

“It could take a little while to sink in I suppose, I still enjoy getting out there and playing every week,” Cleary said of his milestone achievement.

“I like the game, I like playing the game, I like keeping fit.

“I enjoy being with the boys, I enjoy the club life, that’s what has kept me going.”

Cleary, 51, arrived when Ormond was still in A-grade back in 1995 and 431 appearances have included 39 senior games, 190 reserves games and 202 Thirds/Club 18 matches.

He won reserves best-and-fairests in 1996 and 1998 and played in one flag. Six other grand finals were lost.

Cleary’s VAFA career started after a four-year stint with VFA club Oakleigh after finishing his junior footy with St Peter’s.

“They (Ormond) impressed me fairly early, even when I joined, they always did things well, did the extra yards,” Cleary recalled.

“It was always a good place to play. It’s got a lot of tradition.

“I always wanted to play good footy as well. It’s easy to play at Ormond.”

Cleary with former Ormond games record holder Tim Stewart (left).

Holman believes he’s never seen Cleary miss a training session during his time.

The man himself puts it down to his work in administration.

“I’ve always been lucky enough to work office hours most of the time so I can get to training,” Cleary said.

“Once you get to training then you’re fit enough shape to keep on playing.”

The on-field hours are one thing but what about those off it.

He’s been on the committee for 21 years, is currently the club’s registrar and is his Third team’s team manager.

Cleary doesn’t expect anything in return. He just wants to help out.

But people including Holman have always taken notice of what he’s done.

“He’s a unique character, he speaks very quietly, and doesn’t need to say too much to get his point across,” he said.

“I couldn’t think of a better person to have involved in our footy club. He’s never been in it for himself, he’s always done it for himself.”

While Cleary might be quiet off the field, Holman believes he has a much bigger presence on it.

Damien Cleary in action for Ormond.

“He’s always talking,” Holman said.

“He commentates to a certain extent, always talking about what should be happening. I reckon it could be a little off putting for the opposition when he’s always making a sound.

“He’s crying out to spoil or knock it on, always communicating with his teammates. But he’s also the type of guy who would put his hand up and give someone else a game if there were too many numbers.

“He’s selfless.”

Cleary himself remembers playing as a midfielder in his prime.

Now he’s locked down a place in the back six of a side which remains in premiership contention.

After all the heartbreak he’s experienced of six grand final losses, maybe there is one more spectacular moment for him.

“We’re currently second, who knows what might happen.”