What motivates a player who has accomplished just about everything the game has to offer?
Helping his teammates to do the same.
Cooper Cronk has won finals, Grand Finals and claimed countless individual awards over a career that will reach 300 games this Saturday night at AAMI Park.
After tasting so much success he could be forgiven for struggling to motivate himself every year but on the eve of his illustrious milestone, one of the games greatest playmakers revealed what continues to drive him.
“I’ve had some remarkable moments on the football field both on and off and my inspiration these days is to make sure other guys get to experience moments like that,” Cronk said.
“When you’re 50, your retired and everything has gone before you, you can sit back and really cherish (those moments).
“I’ve had some of the most memorable moments and if I can play a little part in helping those guys that haven’t achieved those moments, that will make me super proud.”
Be at AAMI Park for the Preliminary final on Saturday night! Tickets on sale now.
While #Cronk300 signs, t-shirts and banners have been made up to mark his 300th game, a number only 24 players have reached before him, the Storm halfback knows what is really at stake this Saturday night.
Cronk has played in seven Preliminary finals during his career and knows better than most the golden opportunity that awaits Melbourne.
“It is a massive occasion, one I will be fortunate and proud to be a part of come Saturday night,” Cronk said.
“As I said to the boys all week, I don’t want to disrespect 300 games because it is a massive achievement, but there is something greater on offer here for this football club.”
“I want that to be on the forefront and I’m very happy to take the back seat heading into a Prelim… we’ve got a massive opportunity to make Melbourne Storm a pretty proud club.
“There is a massive moment that is greater than any individual milestone the game can offer.
“I’ve been there on both sides where we have and haven’t been successful and I tell you what winning the game is the most important thing on Saturday night.”
