Local resident and touch football player Ronny Witt is looking forward to playing annual competitions for 40 consecutive years in the region when 2020 rolls around.
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In the meantime, however, the 61-year-old’s 37th straight year in 2017 is the current record in the region, where he has played in various competitions, including the annual knockout tournament where international teams descend onto Walker Park. He has also played in Dubbo, Albury, Gundagai, as well as in the ACT – all representing Yass.
Asked about how he began, at 24 years of age, Ronny said he thought he could give some players a run for their money. “I used to live in a caravan at Victoria Park and watched them play. I said to myself ‘well, by looks of it, I reckon I'm better than some of the players’ – and that’s where it all began,” he said.
His many highlights include being involved in winning 30 premierships in men’s and mixed teams.
He said his longevity in the game is the result of keeping fit and a bit of luck. “I haven't had any injuries yet for 37 years, so I've been very lucky.”
“It’s also because of friends, the enjoyment and adrenaline. You play once, twice and again and again,” he said.
The only activity he has been involved in for longer than touch football has been his career in the wastewater management for Yass Valley Council. Currently a wastewater treatment–plant supervisor, he has been in the industry for 42 years.
I haven't had any injuries yet for 37 years, so I've been very lucky.
- Ronny Witt
As for his short-term goals, a major one will be lining up in the 2018 knockout tournament, which will be the 30-year anniversary.
Long term, he aims to keep carrying the footy and side stepping for as long as he can. “Probably another seven to eight years,” he said.
His advice to anyone looking to keep fit and stay playing (in any sport) is to “just stick for around for as long as you can, especially if you enjoy playing it”.
