AFTER 20 years of loyal service for the football department, John Stanaway has received a life membership at the Melbourne Football Club.
The Demons trainer was acknowledged at the club’s Annual General Meeting at the MCG on Monday night, earning the award for his ongoing hard work.
Stanaway was upgraded to the head trainer in 2006 and has completed that role ever since.
“It was a part time job [when I started], so trying to do everything part time was quite different,” Stanaway told Melbourne Media.
“But it was a challenge I enjoyed.
“It was great because you had to stand on your own two feet and just get things done.
“Then the last few years when we moved to AAMI Park made it a lot easier.”
Stanaway was fortunate to get a small taste of success early in his time with the club, but it was short lived.
“I officially started in ’99 and 2000 we were in the Grand Final,” he said.
“Being on the ground Grand Final day I just thought how great’s this … this is just unbelievable.
“Thinking it would happen every year after that.”
While there have been some testing times for all involved at Melbourne in recent years, Stanaway is extremely grateful for the opportunity he has been presented with.
“Not everybody gets the chance to work at a club for 20 years and to receive [the life membership], it makes me emotional actually,” he said.
“It’s a sacrifice for my family because weekends, it’s my time, it’s football time.
“Quite often I’ve had to say to them sorry I can’t go to a function, or do something, or help them because the footy’s on.
“So obviously I thank them.”
Stanaway is a highly respected figure at the club who brings a rare spirit and enthusiasm to his role.
He has developed strong relationships with the players and coaching staff and is a deserving recipient of the life membership.
“I try my best to help out where I can and have a bit of a laugh,” Stanaway said.
“I think that’s important as well.
“If you can’t have a laugh then I think you’re in the wrong job.”
With a positive outlook, Stanaway has embraced his time at Melbourne and couldn’t be more appreciative of the award.
“I’m really pleased it’s come about and really happy, extremely happy,” he said.
