Round one of the Baw Baw Squash Club's summer competition was a memorable occasion for the club.
In a special presentation night long-standing player Jeff Lyon was honoured with well-deserved life membership.
There are many factors considered when acknowledging a member with the club's highest award, not the least of which is long service.
Jeff began playing squash with both Warragul Squash Club and Bellbird Park Squash Club ten years before the two clubs amalgamated in 1996 to form the Baw Baw Squash Club.
To qualify it is necessary to also have made a substantial input to the successful functioning of the club.
This could take many forms such as volunteering, promoting the club in the community, catering, clubroom management, photography, record keeping, scoring and refereeing, committee membership, liaison with other clubs, co-ordinating social activities, and so on. Jeff has exhibited several of these contributions consistently over many years.
If the club requires assistance in any area Jeff will always make himself available and effectively provide his services without fuss or fanfare. He is the ultimate team player, not just in terms of his playing team, but also in respect to his dedication to the club.
Over the years Jeff has played in virtually every competition. He is always respectful to the officials and his opponent, and plays with an even temperament.
He recognises the importance of taking his turn as a marker or referee and can be relied upon to do so. Fill-ins are required from time to time when a player is absent and Jeff never rejects a request to fill that role even if it means playing twice in one night.
He became a committee member when first asked and currently holds the position of vice president. Furthermore, he has assisted in many of the maintenance issues the club has undertaken, has been involved in several of the club's social functions and has, for years, been a member of the club's catering team.
He is the epitome of what it means to be a true clubman.
The life member committee had no hesitation in unanimously investing Jeff as the club's ninth life member.
The club congratulated and thanked Jeff for the huge commitment and contribution that he has consistently and effectively provided over a great many years.