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Northam footy legend Wade ‘Freddy’ Hunter reaches 400-game milestone

Syan DoughertyThe West Australian
VideoNortham Federals’ Wade ‘Freddy’ Hunter says his 400 games is an outstanding achievement.

A local footy legend is set to notch up 400 games this weekend – joining three AFL players to achieve the feat.

Northam Federals’ Wade ‘Freddy’ Hunter says while 400 games is an outstanding achievement, he thinks he can surpass North Melbourne record holder Brent Harvey’s 432 games.

“When you go 200, 250, 300 you think, ‘Aw I must be getting to an end’. Then you go 350, now it's 400, and you think, ‘How much can you keep going?’,” he said.

Wade ‘Freddy’ Hunter has been fairest and best, leading goal kicker, a country week All Star and premiership captain four times.
Camera IconWade ‘Freddy’ Hunter has been fairest and best, leading goal kicker, a country week All Star and premiership captain four times. Credit: Today Tonight

“I reckon I can get 450 pretty easy.”

Speaking to Today Tonight, the 42-year-old said he’s been lucky to avoid injury throughout his playing days.

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“I've never stretched in me life so I don't know if that's the secret, don't stretch you don't get injured,” he joked. “I'm not sure.”

Hunter became the Federal's record holder when he passed 319 games, and this weekend, he'll become the only person in the club's 119-year history to hit 400.

Freddy Hunter and father Rossco enjoy a beverage post-match.
Camera IconFreddy Hunter and father Rossco enjoy a beverage post-match. Credit: Today Tonight

He's been fairest and best, leading goal kicker, a country week All Star and premiership captain four times.

In 27 seasons Hunter’s played every position, but reckons he'll go wherever he wants this weekend.

“I'll just about name me own position this weekend I think, I'll go straight to full forward,” he said.

Four generations of Hunter men have pulled on the boots for the Federals.

Freddy Hunter says he thinks he can reach 450 games.
Camera IconFreddy Hunter says he thinks he can reach 450 games. Credit: Today Tonight

Freddy's dad Rossco has been coaching for almost 50 years - including his grandson, eight-year-old Jake.

But four-year-old Jet's still too young for Auskick, much to his disgust.

Hunter’s 400th game will be played this Sunday at Northam Oval.

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