Since making his senior AFL debut back in Round 8 of 2006, Joel Patfull has played 149 of a possible 159 matches.

Few players in the competition could boast the same level of consistency and durability.

Patfull, who is midway through his eighth season at the elite level, will line-up for his 150th match against Fremantle this Saturday afternoon in Perth.

It took teammate Jed Adcock 10 years to reach the same milestone just two weeks ago, while Daniel Merrett is still seven games shy despite being in his 11th season at the Club.

So what is the secret behind Patfull’s supreme durability over the journey?

“I dunno, maybe it’s a combination of having good genes and a bit of luck,” Patfull told lions.com.au.

“I’ve been pretty lucky with injuries. When I’ve had them, they’ve generally been at the end of the year so I haven’t missed too many games.

“The coaches have also shown a lot of faith not to drop me, so I probably owe them a bit as well.”

Although the hype surrounding Patfull’s milestone will most likely be superseded by Simon Black’s record-breaking achievement this weekend, the reigning Club Champion is more than happy to avoid the spotlight.

“It’s probably a little bit unexpected and makes me feel a bit old now,” he said.

“When I first started playing, (the thought of milestones) didn’t ever cross my mind.”

A newly signed contract will see Patfull remain at the Club until at least the end of 2015, at which time he will become eligible for Life Membership – an honour he would cherish.

“To have the possibility of becoming a Life Member of the Club is an amazing thing, and something that I would be very proud of,” Patfull said.

“You just have to look at some of the names who are already Life Members, and there are some amazing players in there.”