Jason Saddington will line up for his 150th AFL game this weekend when the Blues take on the Kangaroos on the Gold Coast. Despite the fact that only eight of those games have been in Navy Blue, 150 senior AFL games is a feat that certainly should be celebrated.

Originally from Mitcham via the Eastern Ranges Under-18 team, Saddington was drafted to the Sydney Swans in the 1997 National Draft at pick number 11.

He made his debut for the Swans in Round 1 of the 1998 AFL season against Port Adelaide. In eight seasons at Sydney, Saddington managed 142 games including four finals. He received a Rising Star nomination in his first season and during his career at the Swans polled a total of 5 Brownlow votes.

After establishing himself as a vital cog in the Swans defensive unit over a number of years; half way through the 2004 season Saddington twisted his knee in the SCG turf which then required a full knee reconstruction.

After a long comeback from injury he managed to play seven games during the 2005 season. However, such was the strength of the Swans side, he was unable to hold his place in the team and did not play again after Round 14. Unfortunately for Jason, this meant he was unable to take part in the Swans drought-breaking 2005 Premiership win. During trade week, merely weeks after the 2005 Grand Final, Saddington was traded to Carlton in exchange for a fourth round draft pick.

His debut for the Blues, funnily enough, was against his old side in Round 3 of 2006. He would only manage six games for season as he was further plagued by ongoing knee problems.

So far in the 2007 season Saddington displayed solid form for Carlton’s VFL affiliate, the Northern Bullants. His form was rewarded with a late call up for the big clash against Collingwood last weekend to replace the injured Bret Thornton.

‘Saddo’ fitted in seamlessly to his defensive post and provided much needed stability and poise in a fiery encounter at the MCG. It should not be underestimated what value he adds to the side especially when you consider the youth and inexperience in the Blues’ team. The advice and support he can provide to the likes of Setanta O’hAilpin and Jarrad Waite in the backline is invaluable. Congratulations on your 150th Saddo.

Congratulations Jason on reaching another milestone in your career. More importantly congratulations on the dedication and hard work you have done to give yourself the opportunity to reach this milestone. A full knee reconstruction followed by thoughts you may not be able to play again and then slowly working your way back to fitness and then solid performances in the VFL. All at a time when everyone is crying out for youth preferring to overlook the more mature player, you have earned the milestone and my you have a great game and enjoy many more for the Carlton Football Club before your career finishes.