Playing 100 games for the Carlton Football Club is a very special achievement. Once you reach this milestone you have the privilege of having your name etched for life in Carlton’s history.

This Sunday at the MCG when Carlton take on the Western Bulldogs, Bret Thornton will play his 100^th game and he will become the fourth player to have his name stencilled on the number 32 locker in the change rooms at MC Labour Park. Bob Green, Bryan Quirk and David Glascott are the three players that have come before him.

Originally from the Oakleigh Chargers in the TAC under-18 competition, Thornton was drafted to Carlton in the 2001 Rookie Draft. It wasn’t long before he was promoted to the senior list, making his debut in Round 10 2002 against Fremantle at Subiaco. He has virtually been a permanent fixture in the Carlton backline ever since.

His introduction to senior football has been arguably one of the toughest assignments in the AFL. Since his debut as a skinny 18 year old, he has had the unenviable task of lining up on the opposition’s most dangerous forward every week. Shouldering the bulk of the defensive responsibilities from a very young age, and often giving away centimetres and bulk to much bigger opponents, AFL football has been a steep learning curve for Bret. However, in the face of adversity, he has come through with flying colours, always doing himself and the team proud.

During Trade Week after the 2006 season, there was talk the he might leave the Blues and take up an offer from Hawthorn. However, in the end he pledged his allegiance to the Blues and re-signed for another three seasons.

His career highlights to date include; the Best First-Year Player award in 2002, Pre-season Premiership player in 2005 and 2007, promotion to the leadership group in early 2007, and of course he now joins the 100 club.

If Bret remains goalless this Sunday, he will have a tally of one goal from 100 matches. If nothing else, it goes to show just how vital he has been to Carlton’s defensive set up for the last five years. So far in 2007, he has been given a new lease on life with much needed height, strength and speed being added to the Carlton backline in the form of O’hAilpin and Waite. This has allowed Thornton the freedom to play further up the ground and be more creative in his play. Five seasons cemented on the last line of defence has prevented Bret from displaying his attacking flair and excellent disposal by foot. With his new-found freedom, let’s hope we get to see more of it as the season progresses.

Congratulations on achieving this milestone Bret, 100 games in Navy Blue is something that will be remembered forever. You have put in the hard yards over your career to date, may your next 100 games be filled with much success… and more goals!!