Tuohy nearly feels responsible taking Stynes’ Irish document

Geelong star Zach Tuohy is having pangs of guilt about breaking Jim Stynes’ document for essentially the most AFL video games by an Irish-born participant.

The premiership defender will play his 265th sport on Sunday at house in opposition to North Melbourne, breaking the mark that has stood since 1998.

Stynes is among the nice Irish and Australian sporting tales, debuting for Melbourne in 1987 and profitable the 1991 Brownlow Medal.

The revered ruckman’s streak of 244 consecutive video games stays an AFL document.

Stynes grew to become Melbourne president and was essential within the membership rising from years of economic wrestle.

He additionally co-founded the The Attain Basis, a youth charity, and was given a Victorian state funeral after dying of most cancers in 2012, aged simply 45.

“It is a unusual one. I am clearly proud I have been in a position to play so long as I’ve,” Tuohy stated on Monday.

“(However) he is everybody’s hero. You nearly really feel responsible enjoying extra video games than him.

“It is most likely principally as a result of I do not really feel I belong in Jim’s class as a participant and clearly by way of legacy, so it is a unusual one.

“I do not actually know really feel.”

Tuohy debuted for Carlton in 2011 and began enjoying for Geelong six years later.

He was a key member of the Cats’ premiership staff final yr and is famend for his booming kicks out of defence.

Tuohy stated as extra Irish gamers strive AFL careers, Stynes’ legend grows in his native nation.

“I knew of Jim Stynes, clearly. I do not assume I appreciated the numerous affect he had on the sport or his legacy post-career,” he stated.

“I solely bought to understand that once I got here out (to Australia).

“The nice factor is, with increasingly more Irish guys and women popping out, his legacy is getting rather more publicity again house.

“I need to admit, I used to be blown away to see how vital a personality he was.”

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