Starting out in the Lilydale under-10s in 2001, Hawes played in two under-16 flags and won an under-16s best and fairest on his way to a senior debut aged just 14.

The 23-year-old has since blossomed from a back pocket to a skilled wingman and is one of the first names on Colin Lockart’s team sheet every week. 

“What makes Josh better than (your average) boy is his skills with both feet,” Lockhart said. 

“There is a debate still about which foot his preferred is - his left and right foot are just the same.”

Cheering Hawes on in Saturday’s trip to Bridport will be dad Barry - a Demons life member and former president – and mum Annette, who has managed Lilydale’s bar for more than a decade.

“She’ll have a tear in her eyes when young Joshy runs out and he’s nearly played 150 straight, he’s very rarely injured. He’s a very quiet and very likeable bloke.”

Uni-Mowbray will also herald a faithful servant at the weekend with Tim Witherden set to play his 200^th game in the home clash with Meander Valley.

Last week’s division 1 clash between Bridgenorth and Hillwood saw Nick McElwee play his 150 game as a Parrot. 

McElwee has finished runner-up in the Parrots’ best and fairest on two occasions and has represented the state at under-23 level.