DAVID Neitz, one of Melbourne’s greatest players, says it’s “very humbling” to be inducted in the club’s Hall of Fame.

Neitz, who holds the record for the most Melbourne games (306), said it was an “honour” to receive an accolade this significant almost 10 years after his career finished in 2008.

“I’ve been very, very fortunate to play alongside some of the great names of the Melbourne footy club like [Jim] Stynes, [Garry] Lyon, [Todd] Viney, [Jeff] Farmer, [Jeff] White and [Adem] Yze and all of these fantastic names,” he told melbournefc.com.au.  

“I’ve had plenty of time to reflect on what I was able to do and achieve, so to be chosen and honoured by the club, given the history of Melbourne is a heart-warming feeling. It’s nice to know that the contribution has been appreciated.

“It’s a lovely thing to reminisce and reflect on so many great times, great friendships and great players – and the moments you’ve been involved in. It’s fantastic to do that.”

Neitz, 42, said Melbourne had been a significant part of his life and had helped shape him as a person.

“My time at the Melbourne Football Club has been a huge part of my life. I arrived when I was 15 and when you consider the early junior development programs, I was probably involved with the club at 13 or 14,” he said.

“You end up growing up in the culture of the Melbourne Football Club and you become influenced by so many people – not just players and coaches, but supporter groups, other staff members and people you come in contact with.

“The club has had an enormous influence on my life, my personal development, so I really feel blessed that I’ve had some great people and mentors to have some guidance from. I’ve had some very influential people in my life, so I’ve been lucky in that regard.”

Neitz said Neil Balme and Neale Daniher, who coached him most of his career, had played a key role in his development as a player and person.

“Neil Balme gave me my first game and gave me some opportunities and then Neale Daniher was a great support and continues to be today through everything he does now,” he said.

“Chris Jones, one of the club’s fitness advisors early in my career, was another who supported me outside of footy. 

“Those are the sorts of people who have played a major part in my life and it’s difficult to measure their influence. To say it’s been immense is almost an understatement.”