Aaron Beath will break the Thirroul Butchers 300th game record when he plays at Gibson Park in Thirroul on Saturday (June 25).
Beath will be playing against Dapto in the first grade division for the Butcher’s in the Illawarra Coal League. Thirroul community members are eager for the game as the Beath family is highly respected, with a long-standing alliance with the club.
“My grandfather, father and uncle played for the club up until it was my turn. Carrying on such a great family tradition and playing for the club is a huge honour and one I am extremely proud of. To play 300 games is a bonus,” Beath said.
Supporters have watched Beath play since he was eight years old and have supported his growth and success throughout the past two decades. During this time he has also played for the Illawarra Steelers, St George Illawarra and played a season abroad in the United Kingdom with the Leigh Miners Rangers Club.
“The Thirroul Butchers have helped instil many values in me, like loyalty, friendship and a desire for success through a strong work ethic,” Beath added.
Max Bailey, a former Butchers player commented on Beath’s successes, stating: “All of us as young boys have looked up to Aaron; he is a great role model. In my early days in the junior league we would beg him for his tricks.”
Beath added: “The Butchers rely on local players to stay loyal to their club, as the club has not been blessed with money like other bigger clubs in the area.”
Off the field, Beath is the father of two children, husband of PE teacher Chantelle Beath and works as an electrician. His family are his biggest supporters and are extremely proud to celebrate this amazing record.
Beath reflected on his early years: “My parents have been there for nearly all of the 300 games I have played. They have given endless hours driving me around the state during my junior years. Football is a way of life for us.”
