CLUB stalwarts barely come as beloved as as Merbein Cricket Club’s Tony Trinick.
Over three decades the all-rounder has ingrained himself into the fabric of the organisation as a player and member, and this weekend he celebrates club game number 300 against Mildura East.
Trinick is a three-time Sunraysia Cricket Association first division premiership player in 1996/97, 2008/09 and 2009/10, and more recently claimed a second division flag in 2017/18, where he was awarded best on ground in the grand final.
After his club debut in 1992, and his first division debut during the 1994/95 season, the 48-year-old has taken 361 wickets with best bowling figures of 6/43, and scored almost almost 4000 runs with a high score of 92.
Trinick has twice made the Merbein Cricket Club Team of the Decade, and after so many consistent seasons was named club champion for the first time in 2022/23.
Merbein president and previous teammate Larry Cavallo said the Magpies are lucky to have good people like Trinick around the place.
“Tony is known around the club as the GOAT for good reason,” Cavallo said.
“He’s done so much around the place and had an impact on so many people that his importance is immeasurable.
“He’s great with all of our players, young and old, and sets a really good example around the club.
“He’s also worn many hats during his time at the club and is always willing to help whenever and wherever he can.
“Tony is one of the most consistent players we’ve ever had at our club.
“Not only can the guy play, he’s been able to play at a high level for so long. He’s loved by everyone at the club and respected by teammates, supporters and opposition alike.
“He’s a very funny man, very sharp witted, great at sledging us at training but most of all he’s one of the most genuinely good people that I’ve ever met in my 20-plus years at the club.
“You would be hard pressed to find someone who doesn’t agree with me there!”
Cavallo said Trinick provides a strong positive influence on the younger players at the club .
“The current crop of kids really feed off his experience and hang on every word he says,” Cavallo said.
“He’s a really quiet guy but when he talks, you listen. I know he’s been great for our young leaders this year. He’s been there for advice and always encourages them and helps whenever and however he can.
“His influence goes beyond the kids in the first division though. To this day, even us older guys will seek him out for help or advice. I know I lean on him for quite a bit on many things on and off field
“With the youth we have coming through, there aren’t many better people to look up to than Tony. On field he’s still as competitive as ever and holding his own in our side.
“Hopefully he can keep his body up and going and taste some more success soon. He really deserves it.”
In what has been a tough season for Merbein’s first division side, Trinick’s milestone gives the Magpies a reason to smile and hopefully finish on a high note at Mildura Sporting Precinct.
