Dan Vale made his 600th appearance for Brading Town against Osborne Coburg at Vicarage Lane on Saturday (23rd November).
‘Valer’ began his footballing career with Ryde Saints at the tender age of 14. He then moved to Oakfield, before being signed by (then) Brading Town manager Steve Brougham at the age of 18.
The Romans’ captain has also made appearances for all 3 Isle of Wight Wessex League clubs: Cowes Sports, Newport and East Cowes Victoria. The Brading captain played for Cowes Sports under the illustrious management of Steve Hunt.
Dan would have played more Wessex League appearances if he had not been restricted by work commitments: he is a manager at Fishbourne Garage.
‘Valer’ has scored 399 goals for the Romans. Osborne Coburg spoiled his ‘big game’ on Saturday by winning 0-3. Dan was unlucky not to have chalked up his 400th goal when denied by the woodwork.
His greatest honours have been winning the Hampshire Trophy with Brading and the Isle of Wight Senior (Gold) Cup with both Brading and Newport.
Island Echo caught up with Dan after his 600th appearance in Brading colours.
What has been your best game to date? Against Portchester Development when we won 8-2, and I scored 6 goals.
And your worst game? This one (losing 0-3 at home to Osborne Coburg).
Who has been the best player you’ve played with? David Greening (1,088 goals in 902 appearances).
And your most difficult opponent? Harry Ovnik (Whitecroft & Barton Sports).
Which pro team do you support? Manchester United. I travel up there 3 or 4 times a year.
And who is your favourite pro player? Paul Scholes.
How long do you intend playing football for? I’ll keep on playing as long as my body lets me. I still keep fit, and I’m still scoring goals.
Finally, what is your pet hate in football? Club linesmen (at this level). I miss having 3 officials.
