The 74 year-old has notched up 30 years as a trainer with the Sandhurst Football Club.

With the Dragons represented in three grand finals – seniors, reserves and under 18s – and the high stakes involved, the long-serving club volunteer’s day was a little more hectic than normal.

But that’s how Mr Healey, who said he had treated almost “every injury you could name”, prefers it to be.

Naturally disappointed with Sandhurst’s 55-point loss to Strathfieldsaye in the day’s main event, he could take solace in playing a role in the Dragons’ crushing under-18s and reserve grade wins.

The popular club figure said he was glad to be associated with Sandhurst.

“I followed my son Malcolm to the club when he started playing juniors and I’ve stayed ever since,” Mr Healey said.

“He played six years in the juniors before he came across to the seniors.

“I love the club, I would do anything for them.”

It didn’t take long for Mr Healey and his colleagues to get called into action.

A calf injury to Dragons full-forward Ryan Haythorpe early in the game required urgent attention.

The key forward would play no further part in the game, robbing his team of one of its most important avenues to goal, a week after he booted five in their preliminary final win.

Star midfielder Nick Stagg was next to get assistance, after re-injuring his shoulder in the second quarter.

The injury threatened to sideline him earlier in the week. 

Mr Healey said next year might be his last as a trainer. He could not speak highly enough of his colleagues.

 “We have a good team of trainers here, the best in the league,” he said.

Senior midfielder Alex Wharton said there was total respect and appreciation for Max from the entire playing group and club.

“He’s a legend of the club, he’s been around for 30 years, and it’s great having him here all the time,” he said.

“There’s three teams in today, which he does every week, so it’s a credit to him.

“He’s always great value around the club and he’s always happy.”