First and most recent Demon

How many players have played for Melbourne? Who was the first player and the most recent debutant?
- Finn, St Kilda

Matt says: When Luke Tapscott debuted in round one this year, he became the 1276^th player to represent Melbourne in a senior VFL/AFL match. Fred Blackham, via an alphabetical system, is credited with being the No.1 capped Melbourne player, debuting in 1897.

250 matches or more

How many players have played 250 games or more for Melbourne?
- Glenn, Leongatha

Matt says: Seven. David Neitz (306 matches), Robert Flower (272), Adem Yze (271), Jim Stynes (264), Steven Febey (258), Brian Dixon (252) and James McDonald (251) have played more than 250 matches for Melbourne.

Bluey’s real name

What is the real name of the past player after whom the Best and Fairest is named - ‘Bluey’ Truscott?’
- Marie, Glen Waverley

Matt says: ‘Bluey’ Truscott’s first name is Keith. Club historian Lynda Carroll is actually researching and planning a book on Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott, such was his remarkable story. He played in the 1939 and 1940 premierships, was a World War Two air ace before his death in 1943. The perpetual award named in his honour is the Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott Memorial Shield, and the player who wins the Best and Fairest award each year receives their own Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott Memorial Trophy. Lynda says that there is no medal attached to the Best and Fairest, and the award is never shortened to ‘the ‘Bluey’, out of respect for Truscott. 

‘The Team We Love’ and ‘Ask Matt’ will feature on melbournefc.com.au in 2011. ‘The Team We Love’ can be about any Melbourne-related moment, written by club supporters for the red and blue faithful. If you would like to contribute a story to 'The Team We Love' or ask melbournefc.com.au editor Matt Burgan a question relating to the club via ‘Ask Matt’, please email editor@melbournefc.com.au