Wanneroo Rugby Club will celebrate a historic milestone this weekend when front-row veteran Andre Roux becomes the most capped men’s Premier Grade player, running out for his 200th Premier Grade appearance in Roodogs colours.
The achievement marks a remarkable journey for Roux, who came to rugby later than many of his peers and worked his way through the grades after beginning his senior career in Fourth Grade.
The timing is particularly special, with Wanneroo also celebrating its 2002 Districts competition-winning side on Old Dogs Day – a team that included Roux’s father.
For Roux, the milestone is about much more than individual recognition.
"It's a pretty awesome thing to be the first player to make 200 Premier Grade games for the Roodogs, but in all honesty I never played for the accolades – I play because I love the game," he said.
"Roodogs has been my second home for as long as I can remember. I've been there through thick and thin and made some friends for life along the way.”
Andre said one of the most rewarding aspects of the milestone was that it coincides with Old Dogs Day celebrations, bringing his rugby journey full circle after watching the club’s 2002 premiership-winning side as a young supporter.
Wanneroo Rugby Union Club Senior President and Vice-Chairman Kim Westwood said Roux’s achievement reflected the dedication and commitment he has shown throughout his rugby journey.
"He is someone who is well respected and has earned that respect from everyone around him for his efforts on and off the field.
"He is currently equal with a club legend, so Andre further cements his legacy at the club by becoming the most capped male player in our history.
"It will be a very special moment for him this weekend with family, friends and the club all behind him."
With his father having played many years at Wanneroo, rugby was always part of Roux’s life. Learning the craft of front-row play from an early age, he steadily worked his way through the grades, earning a reputation for his toughness, leadership and team-first attitude.
Early in his career, Roux put his hand up to play First Grade when the club was short of props, facing a State representative player despite his limited experience. The challenge proved a valuable lesson and helped shape the player who would go on to become a fixture in Premier Grade.
Despite reaching the top level, Roux has remained committed to the entire club, spending time across multiple grades and leading by example both on and off the field.
RugbyWA Chief Executive Officer Simon Taylor said Andre’s milestone was a fitting celebration of the values that underpin community rugby.
"Reaching 200 Premier Grade matches is an outstanding achievement and a testament to Andre's dedication, resilience and love for the game," he said.
"Players like Andre are the backbone of community rugby. They lead by example, contribute both on and off the field, and help create the environments that keep people connected to our game for generations.
"On behalf of RugbyWA, congratulations to Andre and the Wanneroo Rugby Club community on this significant milestone."
Roux will run out for his 200th Premier Grade game this weekend at Kingsway Regional Sporting Complex when Wanneroo face Joondalup Brothers, kicking off at 3:30pm.
