Football
20 August, 2024
McKinnon breaks league games record
Alistair McKinnon was recognised as the Wimmera Football Netball League games record holder on Saturday at Horsham City Oval against the Warrack Eagles, notching up game 439.
The record was held by Steve Edgerton, who played 419 games for Minyip and Horsham United.
McKinnon played most of his career at Dimboola, playing 353 senior games, along with 15 WFNL interleague games and 71 matches for the Horsham Demons.
McKinnon said it was a special feeling to notch up the milestone.
"It's something I had my eyes on for a little while, and I kept up the work to get there, and like anything, you have luck and help along the way," McKinnon said.
WFNL board member Neil King acknowledged McKinnon between the reserves and senior games. He had his children with him: Eli, Georgie, Matilda, and Jonothan, as well as his wife, Lauren.
Al and Lauren will be guests at the Toohey medal night, where an official presentation will be made.
The 43-year-old still enjoys football but admits that it sometimes gets hard with a young family; however, the love of the game is still there.
McKinnon has played nine games for the seniors this season, filling in for injury. With the Demons entrenched in the finals, it's a great achievement to still produce at the top level.
When asked what the highlight of his career has been, McKinnon pointed out playing with his father, Harvey.
"Being able to play with my old man is a huge highlight, and I played at least six years with him, which was brilliant," McKinnon said.
"I captained Dimboola to the Grand Final in 2013, which is another highlight, and the interleague games I played were enjoyable.
"Being able to play with the best players was a good feeling, especially as Dimboola was average for most of those years, so being able to play in bigger games and around high-quality players makes you a better player, helps you train better, and you come back better."
McKinnon is currently in his fourth year of coaching the Demons reserves side. Two years ago, he coached them to a flag. Last year, they were runners-up by a point, and this year, he is hoping they can get another one. However, he knows it will be tough with the Horsham Saints, the team to beat.
"Coaching the reserves is good fun, and we have a lot of kids in our team, so trying to help them along the way is rewarding," McKinnon said.
"Hopefully, we can go one better this year, as we have a strong list, but it will be tough."
McKinnon is not sure how long he will play for, but he is still enjoying his football.