TATURA Bulldog’s talented Lincoln Wellington has broken the club’s record for most senior games played.
Linc, aged 43, played his 301st game for the Bulldogs at Tatura Park on Saturday, July 30, during the senior game against Rochester.
“I’ve been really lucky to make it through my footy career without too many injuries, that helps,” said Linc when we spoke on the field that day.
“301 games and you definitely feel it. This hasn’t been our best season, but it’s great to be out here to support the team and the younger players.”
His milestone breaks the club’s record for most senior games played, previously held by Fred McMahon.
The eldest son of former Essendon champion defender, Pat Wellington, Linc is well regarded as one of the club’s best players. He started at Tatura Football and Netball Club (TFNC) in 2002, bringing them a grand final win in the following season.
He’s been with the Bulldogs ever since, except for a brief stint coaching Numurkah in 2007-08, and when he joined brother Bryce playing for Merrigum in 2015, winning the premiership.
“I’ve played with both of my brothers, but unfortunately all three of us have never played together,” Wellington said.
Linc started playing junior football at Beenleigh, where he played his 100th before age 11. According to faithful supporter, Linc’s mum, Sam, who has never missed a game, Linc has played 489 senior games across his career.
The real celebration was held last Saturday, when TFNC marked 10 years since the 2012 premiership, and 50 years past the 1972 reverses premiership.
Lincoln said that the 2022 season is most likely to be his last but he wouldn’t have changed a thing. He looks forward to watching his three young children growing up and enjoying country sports.
