A legend of the O&M, Wilson played 322 games for Wangaratta Rovers across his illustrious career, while representing the league on a record 23 occasions.
And while he can no longer be found dominating on the field during interleague clashes, Wilson’s legacy still lives on, with his name plastered on the trophy the two sides will be battling for alongside GVL legend Stephen Ash.
Wilson said he was thrilled to see the return of interleague football after a two-year hiatus.
“It is a big honour (to have the trophy named after me) but isn’t about me or about Ashy, it is more about the fact that after a couple of tough years we have got the chance to see some really good quality footy,” Wilson said.
“Speaking to some of the AFL recruiters they are really keen to have a look at this game, which goes to show the level of talent set to be on show.
“It should be an absolute ripper game and fingers crossed we get good weather and a big crowd out to watch.”
There is no better way to mark the return of interleague action than a clash between the GVL and O&M, with the rivalry going back decades.
Wilson said the intensity always went up a gear when the two teams hit the interleague stage.
“I played my first game against the GV in 1990 and I instantly felt the rise in intensity and the rivalry between the two sides,” he said.
“There is an 80-year history of the two sides playing representative games against each other, so historically it is a huge rivalry and I’m sure that won’t be lost on the players that take the field on Saturday.
“These are the games you really want to play well in and can be career-defining in a way, so I am keen to see how the players on both sides fair this weekend.”
Having represented the league on more than 20 occasions across his career, Wilson said some of his best football memories had come from interleague.
“Reflecting back since finishing playing footy, some of my fondest memories and my best mates have stemmed from interleague games,” he said.
“You form great friendships with the guys you play with and against on the interleague stage, so to be able to see the next generation get to experience it now, it is fantastic.”
Making the trek down to Mooroopna Recreation Reserve to watch the game on Saturday, Wilson predicted a tight encounter between the traditional rivals.
“I will be there for both the under-18s and senior games and I am really looking forward to seeing what the premier footballers from both regions have to show,” he said.
“I’ll say the Ovens and Murray will win by four points in a very close game throughout.
“But win, lose or draw I will make sure to have a beer with Ashy after the game.”
14°C