Whakatane's Steven Mapu is a fine example of age is not limitation when it comes to rugby.

Steven will be celebrated this weekend when he takes the field in his 500^th official Senior A grade game for Whakatane Marist.

Steven Mapu (centre) will play 500 senior A grade games for his club this weekend. Photo: Facebook.

The former Edgecumbe College student commenced his senior career with Whakatane Marist in 1989, at the start of the Bay of Plenty Baywide Competition.

Since the start of his career Steven has continuously played without a season break for 27 years. Within his career he has proudly represented Bay of Plenty at a representative level. Whakatane Marist's Premier Club coach Matt Te Pou says Steven's commitment to the game is incredible.

'Steven has always shown incredible commitment to the code. There have only been a handful of games within the 27 years he hasn't played as a result of injury, bereavement or being stood down.

'But despite this it is a rear occasion that he would be absent from training. You always know Steve is going to be there.” Steven has always been a team man, says Matt..

'He is an inspiration to all players around him. At 49 and achieving 500 games, it is fantastic for him and a great achievement the club, past and present players will celebrate and acknowledge his devoted support.” Steven says he is taking the mile stone in his stride.

'It is just another game of rugby for me, I haven't counted the games I have played, but I guess it seems someone has. I started with my first game and have just carried on because I love it.” 'I have stayed with the club through good and the bad, but at the end of the day the beer is still cold and you still have your mates around, and that is what matters.” The loose head finally highlights why he keeps on playing.

'I love the trainings' and playing for the boys'. It is neat when you have all these young fellas around you and you smash them in a fitness test, then you remind them how old you are and have a laugh.”

Steven's 500^th match will be played this Saturday against Marist St Michael's at 1.30pm.