AN EVERGREEN Old Collegians veteran is on the fringe of etching her name in Warrnambool and District Football Netball League folklore.
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Jayne Toleman is set to break the league’s long-standing netball games record when she lines up for her 409th game against Panmure on Saturday.
Toleman, 53, described the feeling as “surreal”.
“It’s something you don’t think about. It’s not in your mind,” she said.
“I’m quite honoured to be able to do it, because not many people get this far.”
A goal defence in Old Collegians’ B Grade outfit, she first arrived at the club almost 20 years ago and broke into the Warriors’ A Grade side – playing 220 games.
Toleman told The Standard her ultimate goal was to bring home an eighth career premiership with the Davidson Oval club this season.
“That’d be nice, just one more,” she laughed.
“We have a really good bunch of girls and we have a lot of talent, so yes, I’d like to finish on a high.”
Toleman said she intended to retire at the end of last season but was lured back to the club through friendships and a passion for the game.
“In the off-season, you don’t do a lot. You just do it to keep fit and healthy – active body, active mind, as they say,” she said.
“It keeps you young. I think the commitment of the girls draws you back too, I’ve got a lot of friends and the club is very family-orientated.
“Sitting at home, I’d say I’m not a competitive person. But when I cross the white line, I do become competitive.
“After a loss, I can say it’s okay, but deep down, it does hurt you. It doesn’t hurt as much the next day, either.”
Old Collegians’ B grade will play Panmure at 11.45am at Davidson Oval.