Eagles legend Vlatko brings up 200th game
Image courtesy of East Coast Eagles media.
Jon Vlatko celebrates his 200th game for the East Coast Eagles this weekend when his side takes on the Pennant Hills Demons.
The match-up at Kanebridge Oval will be a memorable one for the club legend, who has achieved almost everything there possibly is to achieve with the Eagles.
It is a massive milestone for Vlatko and one he is very proud of.
“I look back at my career very humbled to have played at East Coast and become a 200 game player for this great club,” Vlatko said.
He joined the Eagles in 2005 and has become a stalwart for the club ever since.
“I remember the conversation I had with my family in 2004.
“I wanted to have a year off SANFL footy (at the Glenelg Football Club) and move to Sydney to play with a former team mate – Ben Physick.
“Twelve years on, I have made this place my footy home, but more importantly, value the friendships I’ve made.”
Jon was named captain in 2006 and held the position for ten years. During that time he guided the club through one of the most successful periods in its history.
The Eagles have featured in seven of the last 11 AFL Sydney Grand Finals, winning four of them. Vlatko also captained the side during their three seasons in the NEAFL in 2012-2014.
“As far as highlights go, the 2009 premiership clearly stands out.
“Three Premierships (2009-2011) in a row was an awesome achievement and the group of mates throughout that period will be special to me forever.
“But that first ever Premier Cup for the club is the one that means the most.”
Vlatko has won two Best and Fairest Awards at the club. The first in 2005 and the second during the club’s maiden Premiership in 2009.
Eagles Club President, Jon Gawley is in awe of the impact Vlatko has had during his 12-year career.
“Since arriving in 2005 [Vlatko] has given his all for the Eagles, both on and off the field,” Gawley said.
“The club is a better place for Jon being involved with the Eagles.”
More recently he has taken up the role of Club Ambassador. Gawley is honoured to have someone of Vlatko’s stature give back to the club that means so much to him.
“He [Vlatko] will continue to influence the youth coming through at this club and help shape the club in many more years to come.
“His leadership and service to this football club has been immense.”
If you want to help celebrate Jon’s 200th game for the Eagles, make sure you get down to the game this weekend.
The Eagles take on fierce rivals, the Pennant Hills Demons at 3pm on Saturday, 1 July 2017 at Kanebridge Oval.
