Stephens never dreamed he’d reach 100 games

Tony Stephens has been a pillar of Swan Districts Football Club for many years and is set to play his 100^th game for the club this weekend against South Fremantle.

Stephens debuted for League team in 2012 and is still a key player for the team now.

After successes, tribulations and heartfelt moments, Stephens is happy and proud be on the team.

Reaching 100 games

Stephens came back to the football club in 2019 after some time off for recuperation and injuries.

“I just wanted to play the best footy possible,” Stephens said.

“I’m proud of myself to get this far…I definitely didn’t think I’d make it to 100 games.”

Stephens is a little bit nervous and trying not to think of the game as any different.

His friends and family are coming to see him play and celebrate his 100^th game with him.

“There’s a bit of added pressure.”

“I never dreamed of making it this far.”

Time at Swans

Stephens first joined Swans playing for the reserves in 2012.

He remembers always wanting to play football as he grew up in a football orientated family.

“I wanted to play football and never really thought how far I’d be able to take it,” Stephens said.

The 19-year-old Stephens had a strong season, trained with the league team and was chosen to play for the team in finals.

Unfortunately, Stephens was unable to follow up his 2012 success the next season.

His previous knee surgery quickly began to cause him more pain, leading to an additional surgery early 2013.

Stephens returned to the reserves team in 2014, before taking some time off to focus on his health as his knee pain struck again.

In 2019 Stephens returned to Swans, a stronger and more mature player.

He enjoyed reuniting with his teammates and rejoined the league team.

Obstacles

Stephens main obstacles in his football career have been his injuries

He missed out on his Colts year as in year 12 he injured his knee and required surgery.

In his first year out of school he found it hard initially to not play football.

“I thought of it as a bit of a gap year,” Stephens said.

“I wasn’t worried about the grind…I got to have a bit of freedom and enjoy university.”

Stephens was happy to return to the game and felt a bit deterred in 2013 when he required more time of due to injury.

“After the second surgery I was a little bit deterred,” Stephens said.

“It was frustrating, I played well, started getting good progress and it was taken away.”

After some time away from the club as his knee improved Stephens thought he would give it one last try at playing for league.

“When I was younger I was a bit slight,” Stephens said.

“When I came back, I had more size and was more comfortable and experienced going up against bigger bodies.”

The team has had some tough seasons since then, but Stephens always enjoyed the comradery.

Highlights

Stephens reunited with old teammates upon his return to the club, and forged friendships with new players.

The comradery is one of his favourite parts about playing for the club.

“I enjoy being around the guys,” Stephens said.

Stephens can’t pinpoint his favourite moments as it is the community and everyday events that make him enjoy playing the most.

“The best times can be the normal Monday training session in the rain with a bunch of your mates.”

The coaching staff, support staff and players are wonderful people and make the club an enjoyable place for Stephens.

“I came looking to play the best footy…I enjoy playing but the friends are why I have stuck around.”

Stephens believes the game this weekend if a good opportunity for his team and is looking forward to playing with his teammates.