When Scott Ross made the move to Marong from BDCA club Golden Square for the summer of 2001-02, he never expected he'd still be at Malone Park the best part of two decades later.
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On Saturday, Ross adds another milestone to his stellar career with the Panthers when he lines up for his 200th division one match in the round 15 clash with Spring Gully.
"It's been a reflection of how much I've enjoyed playing at the club,'' Ross said of his milestone.
"The environment you get to play in, the people you get to meet and the friendships you make.
"One of the main reasons I went to Marong in the first place was to play with my brother (Jeremy).
"It was about spending time together and playing a sport together that we both love."
The move has given Ross lifelong friendships, a plethora of memories and a special moment to share with his brother.
In 2007-08, Marong defeated Axe Creek in the grand final to win the club's first, and at this stage, only Emu Valley Cricket Association division one flag.
"To share a premiership with Jeremy was a wonderful experience,'' Ross said.
"We've played in a few losing grand finals together as well, which are not as much fun, but still a good experience to make it that far."
18 years of representing EVCA at Country Week and several league and club batting and wicket-keeping awards are testament to Ross' individual contribution to Marong.
However, Ross said all that wouldn't have been possible without the way Marong is run off the field.
"The organisation of the club has kept me attracted to the game and the club itself,'' he said.
"The club has pretty strict guidelines in what it expects from its players in terms of behaviour and that makes it a good environment to be around.
"The players I grew up with have all had young families around the same time, so that made it family orientated and gave us the all-round experience off the field."
Now aged 45, Ross still enjoys the game as much as he did when he arrived 19 seasons ago.
Aside from team success, he has added motivation to continue playing for a few more years yet.
"I still enjoy it as much, it just takes longer to get over each game,'' he said.
"The one-day format this season has helped me. The maximum you have to keep for is 40 overs. I'm not sure how I'd go keeping for 75 overs..even at the end of 40 overs I'm starting to struggle.
"You notice that your reflexes are a bit slower these days.
"The main attraction is the camaraderie of a team sport. The ability to take the field with friends is a lot of fun.
"Getting towards the end now, but it would be nice to play some games with the kids.
"Lachy's 15 now and playing under-18s with Golden Square. Zoe (daughter) and Kylie (wife) are playing as well and enjoying themselves.
"Some weekends all four of us have been wicket-keepers. Zoe's only 12, so it would be nice to hang on and play with her.
"You're a long time retired, so I'd like to hang on for as long as I can."
Read more: Under the pump - Scott and Kylie Ross
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