Milestone for Bloods veteran

By Kath Gannaway
FOR Healesville’s Thomas Chandler, being involved in six or seven premierships has been a highlight of a 300-game career with the Bloods.
But, more enduring is the mateship and sense of belonging he says comes from being involved from a very young age in a team sport in your hometown.
Chandler’s football career started more than 30 years ago when he lined up as a six year old, as he recalls … “back in the days of the scratch matches between the under 12s and under 14s.”
He came up through the juniors and played, wearing the same number 7 guernsey his dad Tom Snr had worn, for both the reserves and seniors. He is still lining up for the reserves … partly because they need the players and partly because his passion for the sport is still very much alive.
After coaching the reserves for two years he moved up to coach the seniors in 2005 and 2006 and still assists coach Colin Young with the reserves.
Healesville club president Greg Hay said Chandler, a life member of the club was one of a few players who have achieved the 300-game milestone.
“In my time at the club Ron Jefferies is the only one I can recall,” he said.
There may have been others over time but by any estimation it’s an amazing feat.
“Tom epitomises the club in every way, shape and form,” he added.
With a son, Jake, playing in the Under 14s, Chandler is also involved back at junior level having recently taken on the new job of coaching coordinator.
Would he recommend such a long stint to Jake?
“As long as he enjoys it,” he said. “That’s what it’s about more than anything.
“You get a hell of a lot more enjoyment playing within a team than in individual sports and you get to share that enjoyment with a whole lot of other people. I got to play a fair amount with one of my brothers, Jimmy and that was great.”
Despite admitting to a few creaks and groans as he powered his way through his 300th game banner, Chandler is maintaining his life-long (so far) passion.
“It keeps you young,” he said.