MELBOURNE games record holder David Neitz says it was surreal to pass Robert Flower’s record – as the most capped Demon and also for the most games as club captain.

Neitz now holds both records with Flower in second place, but the club’s only 300-game player – the big man played 306 matches from 1993-2008 – said it was a privilege to know him.

Neitz said Flower’s influence and humility was what struck him early in his career.

“He would come down and do a bit of skills coaching early in my career … but he would come down with the message [that] practice makes perfect,” he said.

“When you’ve got Robbie Flower down there honing your skills, everyone is on their toes and making sure they’re doing exactly that.

“That was the attitude that he had – and part of what made him such a great player. His presence around the place was great as we were going through as players.”

Neitz said Flower always wanted to push the limelight onto others.

“Whenever you start to pump his tyres up a little bit, he would quickly find a story about you to throw the limelight back on you.”

“He was just a very humble champion and a beautiful guy.”

Reflecting on Flower’s passing, Neitz said it was hard to comprehend. 

“It’s a huge shock to think that he’s not with us anymore,” he said.

“When you’re looking back, it’s just fantastic to get to know the man.

“I watched a little bit of when he played – but not a huge amount – so I more know him off the field as the legend, as everyone else does.”