MAMMOTH LANDMARK FOR MARKO

Mark "Marko" Dorrington plays his official 500th 1st XV appearance on Saturday when he turns out against Stockport, some 19 years, 2 months and 2 days after his debut against Fylde on the 2nd September 1987. Consider all of the preseason friendlies, tour games etc. how many games has he played?

Marko started his playing career at Chester Rugby Club at the tender age of 8 and following his 11th birthday represented the Grange school in Ellesmere Port at all age levels. Marko followed in his father’s footsteps and joined Vauxhall Motors RUFC at Hooton and made his second XV debut at the age of 13 and 1st XV debut at 15. Following 6 enjoyable seasons, rampaging in the back row, operating as a very effective strike runner at the Vauxhall Club, Mark moved onto New Brighton with brother Steve.

Mark started his playing career at New Brighton in the second row, but it soon became clear that he was more suited to play in the front row and made the switch. Marko never really looked back from that point forward forging a long and rewarding front row partnerhip with his brother and the current Chairman of Rugby, Karl Davies, but other hookers, included Mick Ford, Bernie Hearn, Mike Burden and John Grigg, to name but a few, passed through. Marko's career blossomed under the guidance of Lol Connor, who inspired Mark to great physical and technical prowess and Marko would admit that Lol was and still is probably the greatest influence on his rugby career.

Marko was rewarded for his efforts with all of Cheshire Cup wins for New Brighton, League successes in the way of 3 promotions and many a rewarding experience by just by winning with his team mates and enjoying the competitive spirit created by the successes on the pitch. Marko's excellent club form was further rewarded by greater than 30 Cheshire caps, a career which peeked when Cheshire won the County Championship at Twickenham against Cornwall in front of 40,000 people. Marko would admit to be very proud of the fact that he was also invited to play for the Barbarians and in fact took the man of the match award as he went about his usual business.

The Past Players Lunch could not be a more fitting audience to witness Marko's 500th game - have a great day and make sure you get the fat fella a beer in after the game.