Wives, kids and even a parent were all part of Carlton’s unusual AFL pre-match build-up against Port Adelaide on Sunday.

With Heath Scotland playing his 250th AFL game and captain Marc Murphy and Andrew Walker each playing their 150th, the Blues decided to make it a family celebration.

The partners of Scotland and Walker both spoke in front of the team pre-game, as did Murphy’s dad John, a former Fitzroy and South Melbourne star.

The children of Scotland and Walker then accompanied them on to the field as the three milestone men led the team out.

“We didn’t know as the milestone players that was going to occur,” Murphy said of the pre-game speeches from family members.

“So it was a bit of a shock but a great moment.

“It’s something I’m sure the other two boys will remember as well.

“The wives spoke really well and my old man spoke OK.”

Coach Mick Malthouse said it was good to acknowledge the importance of family to players’ careers.

But he doubted it would have contributed much to Carlton’s win.

“Once the ball bounces the last thing you’re really thinking about as a player are milestones,” Malthouse said.