Redlands Junior Rugby League Club

Daniel will rack up 20 years at the club when he runs out for the opens’ side next season, while older brother Nathan gave 19 years to the Parakeets before hanging up his boots.

Both Ditton brothers have played at Pinklands Sporting Complex since they were six years old and have also given up their time to be referees at the club.

Their mother Michelle Ditton said the sport of Rugby League and the Redlands Junior Rugby League Club had given her sons many rewards for their time and effort including both being named senior captain during their careers.

“They’ve made a lot of close friends, I think that is very important, they’ve learned values like team work and commitment,” she said.

“I just think it’s a big achievement.

“For one to play 19 years and the other coming up to 20 years, it’s taken a lot of commitment from them.

“They’ve both played in grand finals, which was exciting for both of them.”

While Nathan who lives at Mount Cotton hung up the boots two seasons ago, Mrs Ditton said she would not be surprised if Victoria Point based Daniel continues to pull on the Parakeet jumper beyond next season.

“Knowing him he probably will either play on or continue on with the club in some way or form,” she said.

With football season done for the year Mrs Ditton said the brothers stay involved during the warmer months through the club’s connection to another sport.

“They both play golf, the football club have an associated golf club and they are involved with that, so is my husband, the three of them have a game every three weeks,” she said.