Flapper calls an end to international career
Matthew Flapper has announced his retirement from the Australian Jackaroos Squad bringing to an end what has been a fantastic career for the much loved Australian star.
Flapper, a Commonwealth Games bronze medallist with 72 international appearances under his belt, has left a lasting legacy on his Australian team mates as one of the most respected players of his era.
Flapper made his international debut in the 2012 Asia Pacific Merdeka International alongside Dylan Fisher, Carla Odgers and Claire Turley and after years of hard work and dedication Flapper’s greatest achievement came at the 2014 Commonwealth Games where he skipped the mens fours to bronze.
The Victorian representative has led the Australian Jackaroos to many a victory during his time skipping for his nation and can walk away from international competition proud of his achievements whilst donning on the green and gold.
Words of support have come in thick and fast from his Australian Jackaroos team mates expressing how much Flapper will be missed in the green and gold and as a popular member of the team.
Australian Jackaroos Captain Lynsey Clarke shared her memories of Matthew Flapper and wished him well post Australian representation.
“Matt’s contribution to the Australian team and its culture over the years has been huge and will be sorely missed,” Clarke said.
“Not only will we miss your on green ability and presence but that loud booming voice we all love hearing in support of all the Aussie’s out on the green.
“I still remember how awesome it was hearing you cheer out for the first time during your first Trans-Tasman in New Zealand, that voice!
“Congratulations on everything you have accomplished.”
“What a true gentleman; Matt took me under his wing on my first trip with the Australian contingent to New Zealand, this is something that I will never forget and Matt will continue to be a player that I look up too, what a competitor,” said Ray Pearse.
“We will absolutely miss having you around the squad mate, over the past few years you certainly brought something special to the men’s squad; I loved playing every minute alongside you and you should be very proud of your achievements,” said Mark Casey.
“Matt you have been a wonderful representative for Australia, a true ambassador for our country and our sport and a great friend to all, you will be missed,” said Australian Assistant Coach Gary Willis.
National Coach Steve Glasson OAM says Matthew can be extremely proud of all he has done and contributed in his time at the top of our sport.
“Please accept my heartiest congratulations on all you have achieved on and off the green, we will miss you,” said Glasson.
“Flappers brought his personal touch to the team, from his highly competitive nature, his desire to always put the team first, his love and honour of the green and gold, his wicked sense of humour and let’s not forget his ‘savage’ collection of funds at team fine sessions.”
Ocean Grove Bowling Club has been an incredible support to Flapper in his endeavours to represent Australia; this was evident when they hosted the Australia vs Malaysia test series in 2013 and prepared their greens to replicate the slow Northern Hemisphere greens in the lead up to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Please join Bowls Australia in congratulating Matthew Flapper on his wonderful career and wish him the best in ‘life after bowls’.
