Like my men's shed: John never left the soccer club he helped create

John O'Toole, a 67-year-old veteran of the Huon Valley Soccer Club, recently marked a significant milestone by playing his 601st club match. O'Toole, who was the club's inaugural president and a key figure in establishing its senior men's team in 1996, is still a formidable presence on the pitch.

Despite the achievement, O'Toole remains characteristically understated. "It is pretty special," he said, quickly adding, "When you're playing, you just don't think about it. You just roll up each week and play the games." His influence over the past three decades has been profound, yet he downplays his role.

O'Toole is one of the oldest active players in southern Tasmanian community soccer. Although he no longer serves as president, he remains actively involved as a volunteer and readily steps in as a fill-in player when needed. His 601st game was particularly memorable as he played alongside three of his sons – Tobias, Reuben, and Solomon – for the first time, forming the club's defensive back line.

Family and soccer have been central to O'Toole's life since childhood. Growing up in Sydney, he was coached by his father and played throughout his youth. After moving to the Huon Valley, he coached his own nine children. He recalled the club's humble beginnings, where they initially used a gas stove for cooking sausages and had a basic setup before improvements were made.

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It is pretty special. When you're playing, you just don't think about it. You just roll up each week and play the games.