This weekend is a huge one for the AHC! Our Premier League teams are taking top-level hockey to Ballarat, playing their home games against Greensborough at the Ballarat Hockey Centre. The AHC has a proud tradition of country players, as well as playing home games in country Victoria, raising the profile of hockey in the country.
Further to that, the men’s game is a top of the table clash between the only two undefeated sides of the year, and club legend Mathew Higgins’ 300th game in the blue and gold. “Higgo” as he is affectionately known, becomes only the second player in the AHC’s 82 year history to reach 300 top level games (a combination of State League 1 and Premier League), behind games record holder and two-time Premiership player Ian Bartlett.
Mathew came to Altona from Shepparton in 1997 and quickly cemented himself in a side that had just won the State League 1 Premiership the year before, and has been a huge part of the club ever since. He represented the Melbourne Redbacks and Victoria Vikings from 1999 to 2008, playing over 100 caps for Victoria and captaining his state. He very quickly developed a reputation for his hardworking style and competitive nature on the pitch, as much as his genuine and friendly nature off it. Mat played finals in his first few years at the AHC, becoming an integral part of the side that reached the 1999 Grand Final, and then went on to become a mainstay of the SL1 All-Star team with the A’s relying heavily on his talents during lean years after the last finals appearance in 2003. Despite moving back to Shepparton to take over the family business (if you are ever in Shepparton stop by Higgins Bakery!), Mat has continued to play at the top level for Altona and has remained a vital part of the team despite having to adjust his game style as he ages.
You will not find a more loved hockey player in Victoria, from both team mates and opponents, this is a must see game to celebrate a great career.
