After 500 games of cricket you wouldn’t think there would be many more firsts for Thomastown legend Lou Alberti.
But on Saturday, as he walked out to bat in game 500 for Thomastown’s Diamond Valley Cricket Association E grade match with Banyule, he got to share one of the most special moments of his career.
Walking out to bat with him was his son Jonathon Alberti.
It may have been game 31 together but it was the first time they had batted together.
“He did really well,” Lou said. “It was good for me to teach him while I was batting.
“It was always in my head that we probably should have done it a bit earlier. It’s one of those things.
“We might have to do it again this week.”
The decision to bat together was made during the week between day one and two.
Lou, who is captain of the side, said Jonathon was telling people they were doing it before he had agreed.
“It was quite exciting,” Jonathon said. “I always watch him bat pretty much every week now and I finally got the chance to bat with him.
“I was quite excited for it, It was quite a big moment.”
Lou said it was just another game for him but it was special to play at home and with his son and some mates.
Playing with his son is one of the highlights of his career.
“Winning some premierships,” he said.
“I hadn’t won any for 20 years and we won two or three in a row and.haven’t’ won any for a while again.
“That’s always pretty good. Playing with Jonathon as well.”
Thomastown and Thomastown recently recognised him and United legend Brett Leavold but naming a cup after the pair.
Jonathon said he always wanted to play with his dad.
“I’ve started and was about 13 playing in the fourths team, just for a bit of fun,” he said.
“Every year kept going up and made my way into the second XI and had the privilege to play with my dad.
“On and off the field he is great. During training sessions he just sits there and help you.
“He’ll help anyone with whatever they want
“In the game, as I was batting he was helping me get through the overs.”
Both said they love an Alberti combo, bowled Jonathon and caught Lou.
“I bowl and he takes a catch and almost drops it,” laughed Jonathon.
Both are keen to create some more memories.
“I’ll play as much as I can,” Lou said “I’m still okay at the moment.
“Playing together in a premiership would be my goal.
“Or I made 100 and Jono at the other end. Actually Jono at making a 100 that would be good.”
Thomastown president Jordan Cugnetto said the Albertis’ are one of four father-son combinations at the club along with the Cugnettos’, Potenzas’ and the Stewarts’.
“We pride ourselves on truly being a family club,” he said. “Nothing encapsulates family more than fathers and sons taking the field together.
“Louie has been a integral member of the club for well over 30 years, his on field accolades don’t encompass everything he has done on field for this club, he is truly a Thomastown Cricket Club great.
“We are forever in debt for all he has done for us. A much loved club person.”
