Katanning star Haiden Schloithe earns life membership and celebrates his 150th game at South Fremantle with a emphatic derby win over East Fremantle in round one of the WAFL

Katanning star Haiden Schloithe celebrated his 150th game and life membership at South Fremantle Football Club in style as the Bulldogs were emphatic winners of the traditional derby against East Fremantle on Saturday. Born and raised in Katanning, Schloithe is in his 10th season playing at WAFL level and automatically earns life membership after reaching 150 league games for the Bulldogs. After spending two seasons on Fremantle’s rookie list, the star midfielder has produced a sparkling football resume, which includes winning the 2017 Sandover Medal. His other major achievements for the Bulldogs include claiming three WJ Hughes Medals as the club’s fairest and best league player and playing State football on three occasions. The 27-year-old kicked two goals from 10 touches after spending large periods up forward in his milestone game. Schloithe said earning life membership was a proud moment after coming up to Perth 10 years ago to play colts with the club. “It was an absolute honour to play 150 games for South Freo,” Schloithe said. “It was a special day to be able to celebrate with family and friends and it was great to come away with a good win. “I can’t thank the club and everyone involved enough for what they have done for me over the past 10 years, this club has pretty much been my home.” Bulldogs football and community manager Marty Atkins said Schloithe was a credit to his family and himself. “He has really kept his personal characteristics the same since being at the club, which are evident,” Atkins said. “He is a family man and that shines bright and he shows support and gives advice to whoever he can. “The respect he shows is incredible. “I guess he gets a bit of white-line fever because he has the desire to be the best. “Early on he had a fierce determination to be selfish — like a lot of players — but it was because he wanted to be the best. “He has dedicated a lot of hours to the footy club and is a great leader.”