ANU Celebrate Simon Tuan’s 400th
This Saturday, ANU South Oval is set to erupt as Simon Tuan takes the field for the 400th time in a Griffins guernsey.
At 54 years of age and having dedicated over 30 years to the ANU Football Club, Tuan has enjoyed a highly decorated career at ANU in both playing and coaching.
Debuting in 1991, he went on to play in 15 Grand Finals, emerging as premiers in 10 of them. He was part of the firsts team in 6 premierships, captaining two of those victories (1994-95), and won 4 premierships in reserve grade.
In his first year of coaching the seniors in 2022, he led ANU to premiership glory.
“From a playing perspective, 1995 would arguably be the best grand final win because we came back from 7 goals down twice in the same game,” he said.
“2022 was my first one as coach, we did it in honour of one of our first-grade players who passed after the first round. Last year was exceptional in a lot of different ways.”
In what will be a heart-warming family affair, Tuan will play alongside his two sons, Kaden and Xander, to celebrate his momentous milestone.
“Notwithstanding it being my 400th, the actual highlight for me will be to play with my boys,” he said.
“Not many dads get to do that, certainly not in grade footy.”
ANU will also be commemorating the recent passing of beloved club legend Damian West.
“Westy” was an integral part of the ANU Football Club, making his debut in 2001 and leaving behind an incredible legacy.
Over the course of 18 years and 219 games played, he boasts an impressive resume including flags, best and fairest awards, and team of the decade honours.
Indeed, Westy and Tuan formed a remarkable mateship both on and off the field.
“It’s going to be a bittersweet, but great occasion.” Tuan said.
“It’s an opportunity to celebrate his life alongside me as well.
“We’ll have lots of the old boys down there to remember Westy, and we’ll share a few drinks while the 1s are playing.
“That’s what footy’s about, playing with your mates. You play football, and you get mates for life.”
Written by Liam Wyllie
