When it comes to the type of compliments you receive as an AFL footballer, there aren't many that mean more than those that come from your teammates.
When Western Bulldogs skipper Bob Murphy was asked his thoughts on Liam Picken being awarded life membership of the Club, Murphy was typically eloquent in sharing the joy of having a player like Picken beside him each and every week.
"In basic terms, and you could go on and on about Liam, and you feel like you want to go on and on about him, because he doesn't go on and on about himself, but he's one of my favorite people to run out with every week," Murphy told westernbulldogs.com.au.
"As a footballer, I think that captures a lot, and I think you'd hear that from a lot of guys.. those moments before you run out to play, it's an incredible feeling of togetherness and loneliness, that when you look next to you and you've got Liam Picken."
"It's a comforting feeling."
It was likely not a comforting feeling for the understated, but much loved Picken, to take the stage at Crown Palladium on Tuesday night to receive the honour from President Peter Gordon, but in typical 'Picko' style, his response was less about himself, and more about his Club.
"I feel honoured to receive this life membership," Picken said to the 1000 strong room.
"When you look back at this Club, and it's history, it's people, it's players, it's stories, it's home ground, it's ups and down.. to become a life member of this Club is such a privilege.
"I'm forever thankful to the Western Bulldogs for giving me the opportunity to live my dream and play football."
At just 29-years of age, Western Bulldogs fans will be hoping that Picken will be running out in the red, white and blue, and easing the nerves of his teammates, for a long time yet.
Picken one of my favourites, says Bob.
Bob Murphy on what it means to have Liam Picken run out beside him every week.