After starting his junior career with Nowra, David crossed to Ex-Servicemen in 1978-79 and his hunger for runs was shown when he made 150 against Rugby Union 16s in 1981-82. He played in each of the junior representative age groups, and was captain for some of those years.

David made his first grade debut in 1982-83, and would quickly become a regular in the top division, and was appointed captain for several occasions.

Among the many individual highlights was the premiership in 1988-89 and other grand final appearances, the Alan Davis Award for most first grade runs, and representing Shoalhaven at senior levels.

Towards the end of the 2009-10 season David passed the club’s longstanding record of the greatest number of first grade games, held by Peter Harvey.

When he retired from first grade after the grand final, David had a record of 286 matches, 6511 runs, 117 wickets, 114 catches and 22 stumpings.

On 37 occasions he passed 50, twice going on to score a century, and there were nine century stands. As an opening batsman, he carried his bat through an innings on three occasions.

His great knowledge of the sport, its customs and traditions is willingly shared with those prepared to listen, whether team-mates or opponents.

Apart from his on-field record, David has proven to be an able administrator, serving nine years as club president, from 1995-96.

During that spell he became association president, a position he filled with distinction, and had the confidence of all delegates throughout his decade in the chair.