Hayden and his father, Horrie, also played with Trojans and there was one occasion when the father and son took all Berry wickets in a second grade match. While still a teenager, Hayden was captain of that club’s first grade side.

When Trojans folded, Hayden joined Ex-Servicemen in 1969-70, and apart from a couple of short breaks, was part of that club for the rest of his life.

A notable on-field achievement for Hayden was as a member of the third grade premiership side of 1970-71, scoring 57 in helping Ex-Servicemen chase down Berry’s grand final total of 314. Later in that decade he was captain of thirds and had already become active in coaching junior teams.

Hayden's greatest contributions were in administration, holding the positions of president, secretary and treasurer at different times – always with a minimum of fuss.

While representing the club at association meetings, he served as treasurer in two stints, but the pinnacle was his appointment as SDCA president in 1994-95, and he continued in that position until failing health prevented him from going on.

Hayden showed some rare emotion when his life membership was conferred at the club’s 1997-98 presentation night, for he regarded it as a highlight of his cricketing career. He did not have long to enjoy it, for he died during the following season.