The Fletcher name will be added to the AFL’s history books this weekend when Dustin and Ken Fletcher break the all-time father/son playing record.

Speaking to the media today, Dustin admitted he was humbled to see the family name mentioned in the company of some of the game’s greats.

“It will be really good to look back at this in the years to come,” he said.
“You look at the records and there are names like the Silvagnis, dad and myself, the Tucks and the Whittens – there are some big names there and to be recognised and have your name continue on amongst them is a pretty big thing I think.”

In an ironic twist to the magic milestone, the Fletchers will break the current 551-game record  - currently shared Carlton icons Sergio and Stephen Silvagni - this weekend when Essendon play the Blues.

 “It is funny how it works out,” Fletcher said.
“Given the Silvagnis were great players at Carlton and really nice people, it is funny that the record falls on Sunday when we play the Blues at the MCG.”

Fletcher is looking forward to the classic rivalry at the MCG this weekend. He believes Essendon’s recent confidence-boosting win is just what his team needs heading into the clash.

“Since the Adelaide game, I think our guys have realised if you do the little things right and put your body on the line then you can be competitive,” Fletcher said.
“I think that is the key area for us because some of the losses we have had were by large margins and, if you keep producing some of those efforts, you start to lose confidence and go downhill a bit.

“I really enjoy playing in these rivalry games because they are always games where it is irrelevant where the two teams sit on the ladder because you know they are always going to be close.

“I think the young guys at our club now realise just what rivalry is and we have obviously played Carlton and Collingwood in some big games and they know what they have to serve up on the weekend.”

Fletcher tips the Bombers may cause an upset this week against the in-form Blues if they are able to shut down Brendan Fevola.

“The coaching staff will decide who will play on Fevola at selection later in the week and Mal Michael might be a chance to come back this week after some strong form for Bendigo,"" he said.

“If I get the chance to play on Fevola this week, I will just have to do my best because we know what he can produce.”