A SELF-confessed “late bloomer” etched his name in the Singleton Roosters history books at Rose Point Park on Saturday.
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Paul Tapper chalked up game number 200 against Black Diamond AFL rivals Newcastle City – and said it was a proud moment for him.
“I was a bit emotional when I ran onto the field,” he admitted.
“It’s terrific to be a part of the Roosters; they’re a great bunch of guys.”
But, his amazing feat almost didn’t eventuate.
“I played rugby league up until the age of 22,” Tapper explained.
“Then, one day, I thought I’d watch a local game of AFL.
“Ironically, Micky Dawe – who also has 200 matches to his name – kept harping on to my dad about me playing for the Roosters.
“I played half a season and, in my first full year, took out the club’s best and fairest award in 1989.
“I ended up playing plenty of footy with Micky, so this achievement means a lot to me.
“Now, I play alongside my son Jordan, while my daughter Kaylah (Jeffriess-Tapper) is a member of the women’s side, the Roosterettes.
“So, it’s a real family day [out] for us.”
After 100 appearances in reserves and as many matches in the top grade, Tapper still has one goal to fulfil – securing a flag with Singleton.
“I’d love to win one,” he said.
“We went close in 1995.
“I think we were a bit unlucky that day.
“A couple of guys from that team are still running around.
“But, I just love it.
“Plus, the Roosters are in great shape [after a few lean years].”
First grade coach Stephan Nester said Tapper was an important member of the club.
“Paul bleeds for the Roosters,” he admitted.
“And, he always puts everything on the line.
“Two-hundred games is a huge achievement – he’s only the second player in the club to do so [after Dawe].
“Paul lives in Tamworth [these days], so it’s a big effort by him to drive [down] every weekend to take the field for the ‘red and whites’.
“What makes the milestone even more rewarding is the fact he’s a top bloke, too.”
Meanwhile, the Roosters are preparing to welcome an AFL icon to town.
Kevin Sheedy will conduct a clinic at Rose Point Park on Saturday, July 8, from 3pm and then attend a Sportsman’s Dinner later that evening.
In just over a quarter of a century, the legendary mentor has achieved everything the game has to offer – overseeing four premierships and being selected as an All Australian coach on three occasions.
Tickets for the function, at the Singleton Civic Centre, are $85 (adults) and $50 (children under 12); and available through https://www.stickytickets.com.au/51622