100 games for Silverdale No.10

A couple of mates who played for Silverdale Rugby was what first led college teacher Dave McMurtrie to switch to the club from East Coast Bays.

It’s a decision he says he has never regretted, and on June 24 he took the field with Silverdale’s Premier team for his 100th game.

Becoming a ‘centurian’ is a big deal – without time off with injury it takes a player 5-6 years to achieve. For 33-year-old Dave, who plays at number 10, 1st 5/8, it’s taken a full eight years, as he has been out at various times with torn cartilage in his shoulder, a ruptured foot ligament and, last season, two broken vertebrae.

After the game, he was presented with the coveted black blazer and black tie, and an event was held in his honour.

Dave is one of the oldest in this season’s Premiers – the youngest players are 18 – and although he is gradually handing over his goal kicking duties to the up and coming team members, he still relishes each game, and being part of the club.

“What has kept me at Silverdale is the people,” Dave says. “The club welcomed both myself and my wife from the start. I am also lucky with family support so that I can continue to train and play. My days as a competitive player are limited, but I want to keep going as long as I can in some way. I love being around the rugby community.” 

The game itself was always going to be a big challenge, as rivals North Shore were unbeaten. They remained so, winning 30-0 despite the best efforts of a Silverdale side that was under-strength due to injury and sickness.

For Dave, the loss didn’t take the shine off the game. 

“It felt special from the moment I ran onto the field with my son,” he says. “It wasn’t just that game in my mind, it was the 99 others I’ve played too. The amount of people who were there to wish me well was awesome, and we have a bloody good team.”