This coming Saturday big ‘Suppa’ plays his 150^th game for the club. Rarely before have we seen a player that has committed more to the club, both on and off the field. Through his family business, Comfort Sleep Bedding, David has been a sponsor of the club for many years, and his mother and fiancé Elisa are more often than not the best dressed spectators at the games.

Dave’s success with football goes back to his school days where he played in 1st XVIII Premierships in 2000 (Year 11) and 2001 (Year 12). He won the Robert DeCastella Perpetual Trophy for perseverance and dedication to Xavier Sport, came 2nd in the B&F, and won the most determined player award in 2001.

2002 was David’s first year at the club and played out the year in the Under 19’s. In 2003 and 2004 he played a handful of Senior games while doing his apprenticeship in the Reserves. From that time on he has been a regular in the 1’s and has become one of the best mobile ruckmen in the competition.

They say you have to ‘dress for success’ and I suppose Dave’s sponsorship with Versace has done him the world of good with 3 Senior Premiership medallions on the trophy cabinet at home.

Old Xav greats have jumped at the opportunity to pay tribute to the big man;

“Supps has made an outstanding contribution to the OXFC over a long period of time. He has played in the toughest position on the ground for many years and has never let the team down. He is one of the most respected players at the club because of the way he conducts himself on and off the field. He has played a pivotal role in the last 3 Premierships that the Club has won and more than anything else he is a ripping bloke.

I wish Supp’s all the very best for his 150th on Saturday and look forward to many more from him. Well done on a fantastic career thus far.” – Michael Blood

“One of the great understated players of OXFC in the 00’s, Suppa’s work ethic, training and devotion to the Club have been the key character traits that have demanded his involvement in successful senior sides over the years. 3 senior premierships in 05, 07 and 09 are testament to his ability and his work rate and no one at the Club has worked harder to ensure involvement in these successful sides.

Aside from his enthusiasm, loyalty and work ethic, in each of those premiership years his contribution has been crucial. In the 2005 premiership he kicked a crucial set shot goal from range to keep the team in touch with a talented Uni Blues. In 2007 Second Semi Final he rucked all day solo with Bye out with food poisoning in what was a mammoth effort by Suppa. And in 2009 he kept hold of the second ruck position through hard work and determination to prove a valuable partner to Purss against 2 talented De La Salle rucks.

Congratulations Suppa on 150. The success you have enjoyed has been a credit to you and as deserved as any player to have played with the Club.” – Simon Lethlean

“Dave Sappupo’s contribution to the Old Xavs footy club both on and off the field has been fantastic. During my time as a player his commitment to training – never missed a session despite pretty much working in provincial Victoria – and no-fuss approach to his footy was a huge credit to him. Off-field his humility and loyalty to his team mates is why he was one of the most popular blokes down at the club. It was very rewarding to play with Suppa and see him develop into an integral part of Old Xavs senior team. He is a much deserved 3 time premiership player. Congratulations on 150 games mate, enjoy the day and hopefully Lethas can keep it together pre-match.” – Tim Ockleshaw

“Suppa is someone that I loved having on my side - not only because he is a quality bloke - but because you knew he was always going to compete strongly and give his best efforts.

His tap work, skills and ability to cover ground as a big man has seriously cut up opponents over the last couple of seasons – especially on the big grounds.

His chassis took a serious belting throughout the season last year and he continued to perform each week without complaint - this is something I loved about Sups in 2009.

He is also a great bloke to have in the side because if ever an opponent gave you too much grief you knew Sup could organise to get him ‘smoked’ within days! Congrats Sups!” – Tim Fleming

From everyone at the club, congratulations Suppa, and well done on reaching this milestone.

Senior Premierships: 2005, 2007, 2009