Former player Nathan Lovett-Murray was awarded life membership to the club at yesterday’s season launch.
Selected in the 2003 Rookie Draft, Lovett-Murray would go on to play 145 games with the club over 10 seasons between 2004 and 2013. His exhilarating and exciting playing style captivated audiences throughout his career.
The club last night paid tribute to Lovett-Murray’s hard work both on and off the field, awarding him with one of the top honours of the club.
Humbled by the award, Lovett-Murray spoke fondly of the great influence that the club has had over his journey.
“I’m really proud to be a black and red person,” said Lovett-Murray
“The opportunities that this football club has been able to give myself and my family as well, just really opened my eyes up.”
Since his retirement Lovett-Murray has dedicated his time to working with the Indigenous community, particularly through ‘Payback Records’ his own record label which aims to support young Indigenous musicians aiming to break into the industry.
“Something I was always passionate about was giving young Indigenous people opportunities,” said Lovett-Murray
“It’s something that I continue to do today and, with the support of the football club, we can keep doing that.”
It was perhaps fitting that both Michael Long and Kevin Sheedy were in the audience while as Lovett-Murray received his award, both having had a strong impact on his football life.
“There are a lot of people I need to thank and Michael Long is one of them.
“I remember when I first came down here and (met) Kevin Sheedy for the first time.
“He said to me ‘make the most of your opportunity’ and that’s something that’s always stuck in the back of my mind.”
Now a part of the Essendon family for life, Lovett-Murray encouraged younger players to value their time at the club and urged them to make a difference.
“I guess my message to all the young players out here is to really make the most of (your time).
“It does go quickly. I was here for ten years and had the best time of my life.”
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