All eyes will be on one player when first grade kicks off and that is none other than Blues workhorse Mathew ‘Birdy’ Bird.

Birdy will make his 100th first grade appearance for the Blues, an achievement the Wauchope Blues junior can be proud of. B

Bird has been a prominent figure in the Blues first grade side now for a number of years with his damaging hole running and crunching tackles.

He has enjoyed some success along the way, appearing in three grand finals winning two, and also winning the Clayton’s cup in 2013 when the Robbie Trembath-coached Blues went through undefeated.

Birdy has also had some highlights on the representative front throughout his first grade career, frequently making the group 3 and North Coast sides and just recently representing the Group 3 All Stars in the inaugural All Stars match.

Mathew made his first grade debut for the Blues back in 2010 as a 17-year-old under coach Greg Hurrell where he took on Forster Tuncurry. In Mat’s words, his first touch was a memorable one.

“I was on the end of a hospital ball from a team mate that will remain nameless and copped a belter from a well known Foster front rower. He not so politely whispered in my ear: ‘Welcome to first grade, young fella.’” 

Club President Ged Roods is calling on all Blues supporters and anyone that has been involved in Birdy’s career to make their way out to Lank Bain this Sunday to cheer Mat on.

“It’s a great achievement whenever a player reaches this milestone and it’s something to be proud of showing commitment and loyalty, I hope there is a big crowd on Sunday to help Birdy celebrate this special moment” said Roods. 

Game times for the weekend are a little different to normal, as the Wingham Tigers are unable to field an 18’s side for the 2018 season.

League tag will kick off at 12.20pm, reserve grade at 1.20pm and First grade at 2.30 pm.

The Blues will have a full canteen and bar running so come on out for some great Sunday afternoon footy and Mat Bird’s 100th.