1993 premiership player Ian Wilson has become Werribee’s newest life member, honoured before the club’s blockbuster clash against Williamstown.

Fittingly, the former soldier was recognised with life membership on ANZAC Day. Fellow 1993 premiership teammate and life member Michael McMaster presented Wilson with the honour during the President’s Function, delivering a heartfelt speech that caught Wilson completely by surprise.

Reflecting afterwards, Wilson shared on social media:

"Terribly cliché, I know, but I was genuinely humbled to receive life membership at Werribee Football Club today. I had absolutely no idea, thanks to the secrecy of my great mates Frank Lesiputty, Gregory Buck, and Michael McMaster."

He added, "Even my partner Lynda wouldn’t let on. A massive thanks to the club for the honour."

Wilson first arrived at Werribee at the end of 1988 after moving to Hoppers Crossing, then a relatively new suburb, to kick off his VFL playing career.

His early years at the club were a rollercoaster run of injuries, but he worked his way through the setbacks to cement his place in the side.

His persistence was ultimately rewarded when he became part of Werribee’s first-ever premiership side in 1993, joining an exclusive group of premiership players, a group that gladly welcomed 23 more players after last year's triumph.

Wilson retired from Werribee with 48 games to his name, his own estimate that around 36 of those came across his final two seasons, 1992 and 1993.

Since his playing days, Wilson has remained a tireless contributor to the club. He has helped maintain the important link between past players and the current club, managing the Past Players and Officials (PP&O) Facebook page, coordinating PP&O functions, and contributing pieces on the club’s history as a freelance writer. Some of his work can be found on the club’s website.

In 2018, during the club’s "Travelling Tigers" season, Wilson returned to the field in a different capacity, taking on the role of senior team runner to support the players during a unique year without a home ground.

Wilson’s connection to the club continues today, proudly supporting midfielder Jake Lohmann as a player sponsor in 2024.