The Second History Episode commences in 1966 when the Mountain District Football Association amalgamated with the Yarra Valley Clubs. In 1968 we won the "B" Grade (Our first Senior Flag) and the following year we transferred to EDFL for just one season. In 1976-7 we took out back to back Senior Flags although the juniors were more successful in the '70's and 80's and it was not until 1996 that the Seniors would collect the silverware again. We were then promoted to 1st Division and dogged by ground renovation and lack of players and finance and returned to 2nd Division within two seasons. Despite playing in three Grand Finals in the new century we were unable to get over the line.
1966 Harry Watson was elected President with Vice Presidents, George Christie, Councillor Dave Pollock and Fred Gill, Ian Quinn Secretary and Bob Barnett his assistant. There was a general committee of 13.
The amalgamation talks were again on the agenda with seven conditions requested by the MDFA. Due to the increased traveling that would be involved if the merger was approved, Upper Ferntree Gully decided to seek a clearance to the EDFL. Shortly after in late February, a weekend conference of both Leagues took place and subsequently the amalgamation was ratified for a trial two year period. The new league was to become known as the Mountain District Yarra Valley Football League and commenced with 12 clubs in “A” Grade, 10 in “B” Grade and 12 Under 16’s. Powelltown would not field an A Grade side, while Emerald, Millgrove and Marysville would not enter a B Grade team. (The trial was obviously an overwhelming success since the League, despite a name change and various clubs being cleared and returning, is still in the same format today – 2006) Umpires fees for 1966 would be “A” Grade goals $3.50, “B” Grade field $7.00 and Under 16 field $4.50. Norm Moxham was elected President of the Umpires Association. The VFA would continue to supply the “A” Grade field umpires while the MDFA Umpires Assoc all other match day umpires. Affiliation Fees would be $6 per club, 10c per player with ground admission 40c for adults and 20c for children. Following a mammoth spell as secretary of the League Claude Crook was to stand down but at the 11th hour he changed his mind. David Pollock Jnr, 23, was appointed constable with the Northern Territory Police Force leaving a gaping hole in League ranks, having performed the roles of Treasurer and Assistant Secretary for the past four seasons. During February David wrote an excellent article in the Free Press on Football finals being held in Darwin in February.
That wonderful club player, Arthur Gill was appointed coach at Olinda and Trevor Davey was appointed Captain/Coach of our Seniors (“A” Grade) after a faultless season in 1965. Ossie Miles was manager and coach of B Grade with Peter Diprose their Captain, they struggled all season for players on the track and on Saturdays. Billy Slingo puts in yet another appearance, this time as coach of the Under 16’s. Training commenced on Sunday March 6th. In this stronger competition our “A” Grade side were not totally disgraced, winning 6 games in the first half of the season and sat in 5th place on percentage to Upwey,Healesville, Gembrook and Woori who led the twelve team field with 7 wins each. We even clawed our way into the four by late June but unfortunately we fell away in the second half managing only a win against Warbi and a draw versus Belgrave. At seasons end we were sitting in 8th spot with 7 wins, 10 losses and the draw, however the “B” Grade side were unable to crack it for 4 points. The juniors finished 8th in a 10 team comp with 4/11 and Bluey Palmer again finished well, in equal 3rd, in the League vote count on 18 votes.
In the Country league carnival at Mornington on 28th May Trevor and Bob Wildes were both selected, Trevor as Vice Captain of this representative side. Having been a great asset to South in recent seasons David Christie was selected for a run with Waverley firsts.
Although other trophy winners are not available Trevor again won the club’s best and fairest award and Peter Knee was runner-up in the Reserves Best and Fairest.
Socially the club got off to a good start with a pre-season Cabaret Ball at FTG Progress Hall just three weeks after the first training session. A very successful car trial was organized and won by Brian Cordell, the sixth time to win such an event. In August a bus was arranged to see “My Fair Lady” and to finish the season the Club’s annual Cabaret was held again at FTG Progress Hall on 7th Oct. Dianne Martin was chosen Belle of the Ball partnered by Terry McCart.
At the MDYVFL Annual Ball all speakers paid tribute to the success of the amalgamation of the two Leagues.
I have previously reported on the career of Bob Carmichael and in late December he appeared at Belgrave to organise a large tennis day in gratitude for his start in the sport by Ferntree Gully Tennis Association. At the time he was a member of the French Tennis Association.
1967 Harry Watson was re-elected as President with Ian Quinn Secretary. Trevor Davey was reappointed to the coaching position and Leigh Christie won the club best and fairest award. South won 4 games, drew one to finish 9th of the 11 teams and surprisingly were relegated to B Grade, since we finished 8th in '66, and in '65 under the MDFA were 3rd.
1968 Elected President was Fred Gill, Vice Presidents, Bill Lord, Mr B. Spring, Reg Packer, Secretary George Johnstone, Assistant Ken Hanley, Treasurer Mr A. Spring and general committee of 8. Due to a shortage of players we fielded only one senior side in "B" Grade with Ken Hanley as captain/coach. The players representing the club, being a very talented group, lost only one game against Upwey during the home and away season and went on to win the flag, beating Healesville in both finals at Warburton. "Every man in the side did what was asked of him" with the Grand Final score South Belgrave 15.9.99 to Healesville 10.14. 74. Lee Christie was awarded League `B' Grade Best and Fairest and was runner up to that little terrier, Bernie Steele in the club best and fairest award.
1969 President for this Season was Reg Packer and George Johnstone Secretary. We transferred to third division of Eastern District Football League which enabled the club to have an "A" Grade side and under 16's. The club changed its strip to a Black jumper with narrow red and white "V" although this may not have been used in all games. From the Annual Report which shows a turnover of $1,810 some income includes seasons tickets $77, Social events $227 gate receipts $63 Monster Raffle $808 Ladies Committee $101 while on the expenditure side Coaching Fees $160, Social Events $125, Football Jumpers (probably a full set hired) $175, Monster Raffle Prizes $580, Ladies Committee $50.
Club Awards 1969
Under 15's Best and Fairest Robert Strong
Runner Up David Sedmak
Most Determined Peter Reid
Most Consistent Ricky Johnstone and Phillip Brown
Most Outstanding Stephen Johnstone
1970 At the AGM on 7/11/69, 9 Members were present, Fred Gill was elected President and Brian Hall Vice President, Secretary Reg Packer, Treasurer Ken Parsons, general committee of three "with power to add" - Ed Don't you just love this terminology!!? On 12/2/70 the Club decided to affiliate with YVMDFA and advertise for an honorary coach. Membership tickets to be Mens $2, Ladies $1.50 and Juniors $1 to include numbers on tickets to allow for a lucky draw. 23/2/70 YVMDFA Affiliation to be $10 with $14 guarantee, $90 per year, $10 per home game for Umpires, $......50c per player per game Insurance. Gate charge $........50c per person and $.......20c per car. Apply for clearance from EDFL. 26/2/70 Training to start on Thurs 5/3/70. 19/3/70 Season tickets being printed by N. Abson (Ed The name of Abson is mentioned regularly in regard to printing of various items and another generation later the Abson name has been involved in printing and design for over 10 years as at 2006 - we are indeed indebted to this family connection) Bill Phillips is unavailable to coach and neither is Bill Slingo. Contact John Packer about coaching plus traveling expenses. 26/3 Contact Jack Harrison re coaching. 9/4/70 refuse clearance for Ken Hanley to Belgrave. 23/4/70 application for Coach - R Miles and I. Robinson. Ian Robinson appointed and recommend Bob Miles as Asst Coach/Vice Captain. Five members were on the selection panel. Ken Hanley be granted clearance after playing 4 games if required (Ed nice touch!! - probably normal practice back then) 19/5/70 EDFL Fees from 1969 still to be paid, South Belgrave Grounds Committee $120 being 6 years ground fees, and Hartleys $10.76 for 1968 trophies. 16/6/70 M.S.D (Melbourne Sports Depot) account to pay for footballs $12.10 (Ed How many footys for this amount?) 28/7/70 $28 for four new Jumpers. Our "B" Grade side made it to the final four but lost the first semi.
Award Winners 1970
Best and Fairest Colin Hardman
Runner Up Laurie Steele
Most Determined Paul Svenson
Most Consistent John Packer
Best Utility Barry David
Best in Finals John Packer
The Under 14's managed by Ken Parsons were given four trophies.
Best Clubman was awarded to Ken Parsons and Reg Packer was awarded Life Membership of the club.
1971 Clarrie Kneebone was elected President with Fred Gill assisting, Reg Packer Secretary, Ken Parsons Treasurer and a huge general committee of 14. It seems the Council had made it known that they would make major improvements to the Oval this year. The ground would be graded flat and earth from the east side would be transported as filling for the west side and so after 25 years players on each wing could now see each other. The club checked its options and decided on the Narre Warren East Reserve which did not have changerooms but the Narre East Hall across the road was handy. The club advertised for a playing coach in 4 local papers with applications closing 28/1/71 (Ed this is a better start to the season). Three candidates replied including Ken Hanley, but Jeff Carter was appointed 22/4/71. Old players are to be invited to a function!! YVMDFL are considering two divisions. The committee were far from happy when two players resigned from the club (one on committee also) when not selected in the 18 players. The hire of Narre Warren East ground would be $20 per annum In late September the League gave permission to change our jumpers to the St Kilda colours. The seniors had lost 4 games including their round 12 clash at Silvan and a draw against Monbulk three weeks earlier then sailed home with six consecutive wins to finish 3rd on the ladder behind Woori who finished with a better percentage. This good form late in the season was unfortunately not sustained as we were soundly beaten by Monbulk in the 1st Semi.
Award Winners 1971
Best and Fairest Stephen Steele
Runner Up John Packer
Most Consistent John Smith
Goal kicking Steven Clark
Best Utility Don Stephens
Best in Finals Harry Ooykaas
Best Clubman was awarded to Jeff Carter
1972 Clarrie Kneebone was again President with Senior Vice President Don Stephens, Vice Presidents Fred and Arthur Gill, Secretary Reg Packer, Treasurer Ken Parsons and 6 on general committee, with a further 4 joining prior to the commencement of the season. Jeff Carter was re-appointed coach for the coming season at $15 per game.
It is with deep regret that the Club notes the passing of esteemed Life Member and Founding President, Mr W. Lord. In a wonderful period of service to our club, spanning in the order of 23 years, we note that Mr Lord was actively involved at Committee level even until 1968.
Training would commence on Thurs 20/2/72 at Narre Warren East again. A letter in regard to our home ground was to be sent to the Grounds committee and the Sherbrooke Shire. Early in February the committee drafted a constitution and at an extraordinary meeting called for the purpose, 20 members being present, made many amendments, the final document being adopted. (with the number of items on the agenda, discussion probably going well into the night) Don Squires was appointed Chairman of Selectors. Bottles of Beer were to be sold at 50c each on training nights and 60c after the game and moves were made to form a separate Social Committee with advertising for members. In February/March in 1972 the senior clubs in the area supported the idea of forming a junior competition and thus the Junior League was born. Up until this time clubs consisted of up to two senior grades and an under 16 grade. Our club would enter an under 13 side in the competition with assistance from B. Cordell, N. Oram, T Doggett and A. McCann using the South Belgrave Primary School jumpers for the time being with a donation to the school of $10. We would continue to field the under 17's.
Ed Note: For more detailed information and history please read the article 25 years later in 1997.
The South Belgrave Football Club will guarantee to pay $100 per annum for the next 10 years to the Grounds committee and advise them of the clubs desire to have the ground fenced.
This year South played Seville, after their reforming, for the first time in the YVMDFL and South won the first encounter by 2 points in Round 2. Seville's loss in this game was their only loss for the year and they went on to take the 2nd Division Flag.
Award Winners 1972
Best and Fairest Les Palmer
Eq Runners Up Stephen Steele and Rick Wills
Most Determined John Packer
Most Consistent Trevor Mewett
Best Utility Barry David
Best in Finals Jeff Carter
Best Clubman was awarded to George Kufel and an award for special service rendered - Roy Greenwood.
28 Members attended the Annual General meeting in November and an increased turnover of $2,600 was noted.
The Club would endeavour to field two senior sides in 1973 and at the subsequent election, Clarrie Kneebone was elected with Vice Presidents Roy Greenwood, Len Whyte and Don Squires, Secretary Reg Packer, Assistant Secretary Rick Wills, Treasurer Ken Parsons and general committee of another 11.
Jeff Carter would be appointed Coach for the following season except that under the constitution the position needed to be advertised and he would be advised of this requirement. Subsequently Neville Harvey was appointed coach for 1973 season with Ian Quast taking charge of the Under 17's. Don Squires and Arthur Gill were appointed as selectors. Don Squires was appointed non playing coach of the twos. For some unknown reason the League drew both the firsts and seconds in "B" Grade and both teams played each other during the season. In the Preliminary Final we were beaten by Wandin. The scoreboard was donated by Edelston's Hardware and goal posts would be supplied by Council. Although not confirmed, there were some interesting situations that occurred around this period that should be noted. South Belgrave Football Club were consummate hosts as when visiting teams needed to change at the end of a muddy game they had the luxury of hot water - the visitors rooms was at this time the old scout hall and it contained a bath which was filled with cold water. A fire would be lit under the bath until the temperature rose enough to bath all 20 players one after another! One can only wonder about this smokey environment. Another story tells us that the cold showers in the home club's whiz-bang brick building gave many a player quite a shock - not from the cold water though, but rather from some electric current that must have earthed out on the tap fittings.
Award Winners 1973
Firsts Best and Fairest Barry David
Runner Up Neville Harvey
Most Determined Paul Svenson
Most Consistent Peter Jalanski
Best in Finals Neville Harvey
Seconds Best and Fairest Richard Hobbs
Runner Up Reg Packer
Most Determined Reg Packer
Most Consistent Steven Hodgson
Best attendance at Training Don Stephens
Under 17's Best and Fairest Ray Diprose
Runner Up Mick Dilema
Most Determined Mick Miles
Best Trier Andy Seller
Best in Finals Mick Dilema
Best Clubman was awarded to Paul Svenson.
Fred Gill and Ken Parsons were awarded Life Membership of the club.
1974 Clarrie Kneebone appeared to be leading an active committee in the right direction and was re-elected for another term with Len Whyte, Paul Svenson, and Ken Parsons Vice Presidents, Reg Packer Secretary, Adrian Gilbert Treasurer and general committee of 6. The Club expected to field a senior team in 2nd Division, a senior team in 3rd Division and under 17's.
Peter Tibballs was appointed playing coach of the seniors with D. Watson honorary assistant coach. The under 17's were left in the capable hands of Paul Svenson and Ian Quast while Clarrie Kneebone and R. Harding took care of senior selection. In late June the members of committee suggested that the coaching position be reviewed and that Peter Tibballs be dismissed from the position. The motion was lost and Peter continued until the next committee meeting in mid August when he was then dismissed and Clarrie completed this task for the remainder of the season. Since there was some interest from players at the end of the season, the club entered two teams in the South Eastern Churches Basketball competition, paying the affiliation fee and purchasing two basketballs. In regard to the South Belgrave Reserve it was suggested that contact be made with Council "for action on the ground."
Award Winners 1974
Firsts Best and Fairest Rick Wills
Runner Up Stephen Steele
Most Determined Peter Jalanski
Most Consistent Ian Quast
Seconds Best and Fairest George Kufel
Runner Up Colin Parton
Most Determined Reg Packer
Most Consistent Russell Wishart
Best Attendance at Training Don Stephens
Best 1st Year Player Bob Ward
For Service to the Club Paul Svenson
Under 17's Best and Fairest Dale Oram
Runner Up Trevor Bowman
Most Determined John Colby
Most Consistent Ross Colby
For Club Service Steven Kneebone
Best Clubman was awarded to Clarrie Kneebone while Life Membership of the club was conferred on John Packer and Paul Wildes.
1975 is "looking the goods" with Jack Harrison at the helm, Len Whyte, Clarrie Kneebone and Paul Svenson as vice-presidents, Treasurer Trevor Wishart, Secretary David Wah, 15 general committee and an elected social committee of 11 including a full executive. Presidents and coaches would be in clover!! The addition of non-playing committeemen has strengthened the club considerably. The club would continue to enter teams in the Leagues 2nd Division, 3rd Division and Under 17's and advertise for 4 trainers to assist the teams. Probably the most rewarding part has been the general harmony and fellowship that has existed between both old and the influx of new players. Special mention was made of such club stalwarts as Clarrie Kneebone and Reg Packer Snr. for their continued service to the club. The Club would purchase a Life Members Honour Board. Towards the end of the season there were two items of interest. Firstly the Football club formed a sub-committee to continue the Cricket club activities should they fold and secondly the club financed a bond on behalf of under 17 player Geoff Moore who had found himself on the wrong side of the law and needed to be released in order to play in the under 17 Grand Final. I'm led to believe that President and a vice president guaranteed his safe return - after the celebrations you would expect!! We beat Yarra Junction in the Grannie and there was much discussion about the unsporting behavior of that team and particularly when player G. Moore was allegedly kicked by the captain of the Yarra Junction team. The Umpire of the under 17 game was a member of the local constabulary and after leaving the ground found Geoff Moore heading up the main street of Warburton intent on celebrating on his own. The Umpire/police officer decided that, for his own good, Geoff should be returned to the ground!
Max Proctor led the coaching panel with "A" Grade which was never beaten by more than 4 goals during the season. Some lack of fitness through the year, particularly over the summer months, could have turned many games including the finals. Max provided inspiring leadership both on and off the field to finish with 1st Semi berth against Wandin in which we went down. Doug McWilliam oversaw a much better effort from "B" Grade despite not having the wins on the board. Rick Hobbs coached the Under 17's admirably to their first ever Premiership and the Club's first since 1968. Team Manager was Tony Baker Snr with Ken Gray Snr the trainer. Captain of this successful side was one, Ross Colby. Terry Ronald gained the Under 15's respect and confidence. And the winners were........
"A" Grade Best & Fairest Les Baker
Runner Up Peter Jalanski
Most determined Greg Steele
Most Improved Steve Connell
Best Utility Mick Backman
Best Finals player Lindsay Blyth and Rick Wills (eq)
"B" Grade Best & Fairest Fred Shoobert
Runner Up Hugo Preyer
Most determined David Boyd
Most Improved Lou Nido
Best Utility Doug McWilliam
Under 17's Best & Fairest John Colby
Runner Up Paul Hester
Most Determined Bruce Willett
Most Improved Adrian Parsons
Best Utility Ross Colby
Under 15's Best & Fairest Mark Thomas
Mark Thomas's performance was particularly outstanding as he also won the League Best and Fairest as well as playing in the Under 17 Premiership side.
Best Clubman went to David Wah with "A" Grade Goal kicking to Lindsay Blyth.
The Social Club ably led by Rick Wills, Paul Svenson and Harry Ooykaas reported that the functions were not totally successful since they were not supported by all Club Members. Despite the moans they handed more than $3,500 to the Football Club which was more than double that of the previous year! 190 attended the Presentation night at Villa Borghese. End of season trip away was held in Hobart and twenty six players attended. Still on the calendar was the "Annual Pig Roast" on Melbourne Cup Day.
Jack Harrison finished his Annual report by saying "I urge every club member to involve himself or herself just that bit more, and we cannot fail to gain new strengths which will only lead to greater success."
1976 and Jack Harrison is again steering the ship with another good crew. Vice Presidents, Clarrie Kneebone amongst the action again along with David Wah and Len Whyte. While Trevor Wishart backed up as treasurer, Graham Bentley took over as Secretary. Another 13 Committee personel and Social Committee of 16 led ably by Rick Wills and Harry Ooykaas - an undoubted recipe for success. And speaking of success all functions during the season were well attended and financially rewarding which once again can be attributed to the harmony around the Club. Following a great contribution to the Club for around 10 years Les (Bluey) Palmer was cleared in March.
The "A" Grade side was under the guidance of Phil Moxham as Capt/Coach, Les Baker Vice Captain. Club stalwart Paul Wildes coaching the second eighteen, Vice Captain Russell Wishart and deputy vice Peter Diprose. Ian Thomas and Ken Gray Snr had the under 17's and 15's respectively. These four and their many helpers put in many hard yards with the following results-
A fabulous "A" grade Premiership, the first Senior Premiership since 1968. For the records we played Emerald in the Grand Final and neither side was able to stamp their name on the game at the first change. South gradually edged ahead in the second term with tight defense by Mick Spruhan, Harry Ooykaas, and Barry David and the excellent ruck-roving of Terry Geddes we were looking at a lead of 14 points at the long break. Early in the third Emerald rallied with four quick goals but South were able to steady with goals to David Wah (2), Paul Svenson, and Terry Geddes saw a lead of 12 points at orange time. Phil Moxham kicked the first two in the last quarter but Emerald were not to be denied and fought back strongly to be within 5 points midway through the term. Despite huge pressure on all players Brendan Campbell kicked a fine goal late in the term to give South its' winning margin of 12 points. Final Scores South 14.19. 103 to Emerald 12.19. 91.
Goal kickers - David Wah (4), Phil Moxham (4), Paul Svenson, Rick Wills, Chris Pettigrove, Brendan Campbell, Terry Geddes, Lindsay Blyth
Best Players - Terry Geddes, Harry Ooykaas, Greg Steele, Fred Davis, Phil Moxham, David Wah, Mick Spruhan.
Although the reserves only won two games, there was continued improvement throughout the season, particularly from the younger brigade. Reg Packer Jnr was in everything and even stripped for two games during the year.
Yet another fabulous "C" Grade (under 17) Premiership. There were just 19 registered players in the side and they went through the season undefeated, usually with 15 - 18 players and not once with a 19th man. Captain of this side was Paul Hester later to be drummer in the very popular Australian Band "Crowded House", vice captain was Andy Sellar, and deputy Tim Rees.
And last but not least the Under 15's played in their first finals appearance since their formation. Ken Gray Jnr, captain of the side, put in a brilliant performance, claiming the League Best and Fairest Award and also featured in our Under 17 Premiership side, the second year in a row that a South player has completed this feat. Rod Lovell was vice captain and David Murphy deputy.
"A" Grade Best and Fairest Les Baker
Runner Up Fred Davis
Most Consistent Chris Pettigrove
Most Determined Harry Ooykaas
Best Utility Mick Dale
Coaches Trophy Mick Spruhan
Best Finals Player Terry Geddes
"B" Grade Best and Fairest John Packer
Runner Up Ray Diprose
Most Determined Bob Ward
Most Improved Jim Boxell
Best Utility Gary Leicester
Coaches Trophy Peter Diprose
"C" Grade Best and Fairest Perry Leenheers
Runner Up Paul Hester
Most Determined Andy Sellars
Most Improved Rodney Weir
Best Utility Tim Rees and Mark Thomas
Coaches Award Ian Diprose
The "A" Grade goal kicking was won by Phil Moxham, while Paul Hester not only took out the "C" grade award but also the League leading goalkicker also.
Best Club person was awarded to Jean Baker with Life Memberships deservedly awarded to Clarrie Kneebone and Paul Svenson. Despite hectic celebrations the Melbourne Cup Day Pig Roast took place and a night bus trip to the Trots in December rounded off a great year.
Further investigation is required to establish the exact year that the old scout hall burnt to the ground but it was around this period.
Note:- Having won the Premiership South Belgrave did not automatically enter 1st Division and it was not until two weeks prior to the commencement of the season that the League invited South to go up. Considering themselves unprepared to accept this offer, the Club declined, but with the option, if successful, to reconsider the following season.
1977 Jack Harrison stands aside due to ill health and in his stead the Club is capably led by Trevor Wishart. The pressure at the top is still on with Clarrie Kneebone, Jack Hall and Tony Baker Snr as Vice Presidents, Graham Bentley Secretary and Peter Diprose Treasurer. 11 General Committee and Social Committee of 19 - that's a lot of social functions!! Ed Note: My job has been made a whole lot easier this year as the following highlights have been provided -
* New coach Geddes takes players on pre-season "horror" run
* Disastrous pre-season games (all lost)
* Paul Svenson breaks leg in very first game v. Marysville
* Good opening to season - first three games won
* Early boost - Emerald thrashed
* Second eighteen win first game for the season
* The Rain starts
* First loss for the season to Healesville
* Bonus - Les Baker makes a comeback
* Season gets wetter
* Club suffers humiliating loss in wet to Emerald
* Younger brigade continues to play well
* Mick Spruhan continues on like a racehorse (continually breaks down)
* One point loss to Wandin
* Earlier defeat at the hands of Emerald avenged - `easy'
* Build Up to finals
* Kunta-Kinta keeps complaining about the coaching methods employed (one lap is just too much)
* Coach Geddes wins League Best and Fairest Award
* Second Semi - Emerald thrashed to the tune of two points
* During the game the coach has a bad loss - namely a number of teeth
* Grand Final - `easy' 8 goal win over Emerald
* Continual celebrations are capped off with a great weekend trip to Buxton
Yes Terry Geddes waved that magic "A" Grade wand for yet another Premiership in fine style while taking out both Club and League Best and Fairest.
The "B" Grade side was coached by Peter Diprose and improved to the point of not finishing on the bottom as in previous years. Many 2nds were able to stand up in the Senior side when required and performed admirably.
Under 17's with Ken Gray coaching maintained top of the ladder all season only to be defeated in the Preliminary Final.
Under 15's played on Sundays in the DRJFL competition and Richard Hobbs was coach
An under 13 side was also introduced this year under the watchful eyes of Bob Holmes, assisted by Bill Cormack and Dick Pendlebury. The number of younger children coming into the district was becoming obvious.
"A" Grade Grand Final Report -
The game commenced with South Belgrave kicking against the wind and starting at a cracker pace with early goals to George Kufel, Terry Geddes and Phil Moxham. Emerald rallied late in the term to be within range at the end of the first quarter. The second term saw South with the aid of the wind take complete control and leave the opposition flatfooted to lead by seven goals at the long break.
The start of the third quarter saw Emerald, after desperate changes, match South for the first fifteen minutes and add four goals to get back into the game. But the steady play of Geddes, Steele, Bond and Howell helped to maintain a lead of six goals at orange time. With a commanding lead and the scent of victory in the air South went on to take the Premiership in fine style.
South Belgrave 19.13.127 to Emerald 11.12.78
Best players - Terry Geddes, Greg Steele, Peter Bond, Tony Howell, Phil Moxham, Chris Pettigrove, Ross Colby, Rick Wills and Barry David.
Goal kickers were plentiful but Greg Steele's five are worth a mention.
Despite a very active Social Committee under the leadership of Paul Svenson, David Wah and Michael Dale, patronage at functions was down a little and expenses on the rise so there was not the expected increased financial returns this year. The Melbourne Cup Family Day and Pig Roast together with the Trots night will again round off another successful season.
"A" Grade Best and Fairest Terry Geddes
Runner Up Chris Pettigrove
Most Consistent Harry Ooykaas
Most Determined Ken Seiler
Most Improved Richard Hobbs
Best Utility Tony Howell
Coach's Trophy Ross Colby
"B" Grade Best and Fairest Allan Herdman
Runner Up Ron McLeod
Most Determined David Boyd
Most Improved George Kufel
Best Utility Tim Rees
"C" Grade Best and Fairest Ken Gray
Runner Up John Boxell
Most Determined Mick Mills
Most Improved Leyton Oliver
Best Utility Michael Bentley
Coach's Trophy Steve Doggett
Best 1st year Senior player David Cooper, and Under 17 Stewie Sorrell
Best Finals Player in "A" Grade Greg Steele and in the Under 17's Mick Mills
Best Clubman was awarded to Ken Gray Snr.
Note :- There was considerable discussion about the club's expected promotion to 1st Division in the Annual Report of this year (1977) and members were to think seriously about the Club's ability to finance the move. Following the Annual Meeting South applied to enter 1st Division. The League decided that it would be mandatory for all Clubs to field a second eighteen side. At the League Annual General Meeting a motion for relegation from 1st to 2nd Division was tabled, but when it became known that South wanted to be promoted the motion was withdrawn. When South's application was tabled, all Club's in the League voted against us.
Having felt that we had been set up, South then applied for a clearance to move into the South West Gippsland Football League. This request was initially refused but easily won on appeal and South Belgrave Football Club moved into the SWGFL for the 1978 Season albeit with very little time for preparation. One of the reasons given for the SWGFL was less traveling so it might be prudent to mention the teams in this competition at the time - Berwick, Doveton, Keysborough, Hampton Park, Beaconsfield, Narre Hallam, Cranbourne, Dingley, ROC, with Chelsea Heights, and Devon Meadows the furthest away.
1978 Trevor Wishart continued on as President with Tony Baker Snr, Ted Bentley and Jack Hall as Vice Presidents, Gill Murphy Secretary, Harry Ooykaas Treasurer general committee of 14 and a social committee of 14 several of whom were also members of the general committee. A great start to commence in a new League however not everything went to plan. The Shire decided to upgrade and realign the South Belgrave oval and our home ground was to be the Narre Warren East oval. There were no clubrooms at the oval nor much needed showers and players changed at the Narre East (Muddy Creek) Hall across the busy Harkaway road It was not long before this ground became unplayable and also without showers at the hall, the Club moved on to the Narre Hallam ground on the Princes Highway.
Terry Geddes and David Wah coached the ones and twos respectively and performed extremely well under very trying conditions. The club underestimated the opposition in this League winning just 3 games for the year although there were others that were winnable. With such strong opposition many players carried a defeatist attitude which was reflected in the way they played and some seniors did not turn up when asked to play in the seconds. We also underestimated the amount of dollars needed to spend on players and support for the teams. Both seniors and reserves finished with the wooden spoon but the under 17's showed that the future has something to offer. If either team was short of players several of the unders were happy to fill in. Ken Gray coached the under 17's who finished 9th with seven wins ahead of Chelsea Heights, ROC, and Devon Meadows.
This season saw, for the first time, the election of a separate committee to administer the Junior Teams who continued to play in the DRJFL. Bill Cormack became the first chairman of the juniors. Initially the Under 13's and Under 15's were to play but owing to so many enthusiastic younger boys an Under 11 team was formed but it was too late to take part in competition and they played practice matches against the bye teams. Russell Wishart took charge of the Under 15's and Bob Holmes the Under 13's. All told 76 boys participated for the season.
Award Winners 1978
Firsts Best and Fairest Ken Seiler
Runner Up Peter Bond
Most Determined Terry Geddes
Most Improved Ross Colby
Best Utility Tony Howell
Seconds Best and Fairest Mick Ablett
Runner Up Russell Jolley
Most Determined Bob Ward
Most Improved John Boxell
Best Utility Paul Svenson
Thirds Best and Fairest Ken Gray
Runner Up Greg Boyle
Most Determined Steven Richards
Most Improved Allan Tiedeman
Best Utility Stuart Sorrell
Leading Goal kicker Stuart Sorrell
Best 1st Year Senior Player was awarded to Michael Bentley with Stephen Lee in the Under 17's. Best Clubman was awarded to Jack Hall.
Despite good functions being organized and without a home ground one can only imagine the difficulties experienced, the functions were not well patronized. Few players stayed for a drink after games.
1979 moved along all too quickly and the Ground repairs were not completed by the Shire. The Club had to travel to Lewis Road Wantirna and this affected players and supporters alike. Club's such as Devon Meadows would have been extremely pleased with a further 20 minutes or so traveling time! Morale was low but Trevor Wishart held a good committee together. Vice Presidents were Ted Bentley, Jack Hall and John Packer with Gill Murphy Secretary and Russell Wishart Treasurer. They were assisted by 8 general committee and 7 Social committee. Socially the club ran many functions but numbers were low, however huge numbers turned up on Presentation night.
Norm Dean, ex North Melbourne player was appointed Senior Coach. He had a frustrating and disappointing season as for the second year in succession we finished at the bottom, this time without winning a game. Serious injuries to some of our better players could not be covered by an undermanned Reserves side. Despite having kicked more than 8 goals in round 10, Narre Hallam recorded their Club's highest ever score against us booting a massive 41.21.267. The SWGFL played a match in New Zealand on 1st June with Kenny Seiler and Greg Roberts in the selected side. Attendance at training was very poor. "A much more dedicated and professional approach must be applied throughout the Club to improve performances". Reserves Coach Russell Jolley was a little more optimistic about the future since some of the younger players were improving. Russell Wishart had difficulty raising an Under 17 side at the beginning of the season due to many injuries they played with only 15 or 16 in most games. Those around the Club in 2006 might be interested to know that the Captain of this side was David Murphy, vice captain Peter Murphy and deputy vice captain Stephen Lee.
Award Winners 1979
Senior Best and Fairest Peter Bond
Runner Up Ken Seiler
Most Determined Greg Roberts
Most Consistent Gary Evans
Most Improved George Kufel
Best 1st Year Player David Bentley
Coach's Award Leon Geddes
Reserves Best and Fairest Russell Jolley
Runner Up Paul Svenson
Most Determined Ken Gray
Most Consistent Bob Ward
Coach's Award Peter Diprose
Under 17's Best and Fairest Stephen Lee
Runner Up Scott McLean
Most Determined Alan Tiedeman
Most Consistent David Murphy
Most Improved Peter Heatley
Best 1st Year Player Andrew Morse
Coach's Award Mark Cummings
Best Clubman was awarded to Trevor Wishart who stood down from the President's position at the end of this season after two out of three of the worst years in the Club's history. The Junior Club again under the leadership of Bill Cormack, reported that 80 boys represented the club in competition in Under 11,13, and 15's
In a constitutional amendment it was moved "that members will not be considered for Life Membership medallions until they have played at least 10 years and/or served in an administrative capacity for 10 years, and that they be limited to two per year"
Life Membership was conferred on Harry Ooykaas
1980 The catch cry rang out loud and clear "There's no place like home" and at last South returned to home soil. The rooms were refurbished and coach's boxes built. Both Committees were prepared to get things moving. There was an influx of new players and John Walker was appointed Senior Coach. The stage looked set for a successful and exciting season.
Unfortunately those all important four points were somewhat elusive despite some close games. A note of desperation was creeping in to player's attitudes midway through the season and four wins were the result. The Seconds again with Russell Jolley coaching this year provided a good training ground for the seniors and actually were successful on three occasions. A lack of enthusiasm towards the end of the season meant recalling some retired players. This year the junior's age was raised to under 18's and our boys were coached by Ken Hickey. It seems some of the boys were not over-keen on the training track and could quite easily have finished in the four if they had shown more determination and team spirit. As it was they finished 6th with 10 wins which augers well for the future of the Club. The ground was still far from satisfactory and problems with the hot water and lack of social amenities are on that list to fix!
Ted Bentley, President was pleased with our achievements for the year (particularly when you consider the previous two seasons). We finished above Devon Meadows on the seniors and reserves Ladders. Ted was assisted by David Wah, Graham Bentley and Russell Wishart as Vice Presidents, Russell Jolley Secretary, Bill Fenton Treasurer, 11 Committee and 13 Social Committee.
In fact the Social Committee was particularly successful this year with many new and younger players getting involved. Of course we were back on home soil and this may have been a primary reason for the social focus. The Gong Show was the most successful function.
The junior section reported a shortage of Under 15 players at the beginning of the season and added an Under 9 side to their already strong numbers. Over 120 boys played footy this season. (Ed Note - it is not my intention to continue reporting on the Junior section activities since these records are available through the Junior Club and the numbers are sure to continue increasing) Needless to say this is an important part of the Senior Club since there is a continuing avenue for the Juniors to follow.
Award Winners 1980
Senior Best and Fairest Frank Moss
Runner Up Geoff Reid
Most Determined Peter Bond
Most Improved Ross Colby
Most Consistent George Kufel
Coach's Trophy Marty Roberts
Reserves Best and Fairest Ron McLeod
Runner Up Harry Ooykaas
Most Determined Lou Nido
Most Consistent Stuart Jungwirth
Coach's Trophy Craig Cordell
Best 1st Year Senior Player Steven Richards
Under 18's Best and Fairest Peter Murphy
Runner Up Scott McLean
Most Determined Mark Cummings/David Murphy
Most Consistent Stephen Lee
Most Improved Graham Mickleburough
Coach's Trophy Peter Heatley
Best 1st Year Player Andrew Montgomery
President's Trophy ........Russell Wishart Best Clubman..........Jack Hall
1981 We note very few name changes at the top and many of the same faces are re -elected. Ted Bentley continues as President, with Paul Svenson, Russell Wishart, and Michael Dale assisting. Bill Fenton commenced as Treasurer but resigned during the year while Russell Jolley continued as Secretary, general committee of 8 and the Social Committee consisted of 9 with only two of these on the general committee as well. It seems that Sponsorships may have increased considerably, mainly from individuals and not businesses. Darren Lee once again as boundary umpire deserves mention. Attempts at fundraising were too often not as successful as they should have been possibly due to organizational ineptness and lack of loyalty and dedication from club members.
The '81 season commenced with a large deficit from 1980 and the committee decided on a non-paid players approach in order to make up some ground. We lost many players from the previous season (not necessarily from lack of payments) but there was some hope of achieving an all local player involvement over three seasons, particularly since the under 18's had been showing considerable promise.
Terry O'Toole had been appointed senior coach with Michael Dale reserves and John Colby took charge of the under 18's. After losing several of last season's senior players we suffered many humiliating defeats in both firsts and seconds but the bond between old and new players grew. Quite a number of 2nds and unders players made themselves available for a second game when we were terribly short and they performed extremely well. The seniors cracked a win against Devon Meadows in the second half of the season. The Under 18's on the other hand managed eight wins from the first 13 games with regular attendances at both training and on match day. However in the last half of the season we started to lose players due to lack of interest and losing to Keysborough by a couple of points. This was a major blow with the downhill slide gaining momentum and our finals hopes were dashed.
The Gong show was again the greatest Social success and the Cup Day Pig Roast continues in popularity this year as part of the Belgrave Heights and South Spring Fair. Sunday Market stalls raised substantial sums of money with little outlay.
Award Winners 1981
Seniors Best and Fairest Ross Colby
Runner Up Michael Bentley
Most Determined John Colby
Most Consistent Steve Tantrum
Most Improved Tony Baker
Coach's Trophy Steve Tantrum
Reserves Best an Fairest Jim Boxell
Runner Up Will Watson
Most Determined Michael Dale
Most Consistent Russell Jolley
Coach's Trophy John Armao
Best 1st Year Senior Player Chris Phillips
Under 18's Best and Fairest Stephen Lee
Runner Up Peter Wood
Most Determined Stewie Page
Most Consistent Craig Leicester
Most Improved Ed Watson
Coach's Trophy Peter Dellios
Best 1st Year Player Peter Wood
Best Clubman was awarded to Russell Jolley
1982 This would have to be the most unbelievable year since 1946. No elected general committee and no social committee. How could this possibly be? Dick Pendlebury takes a lone hand with Russell Jolley as Vice President/Treasurer and Ted Bentley Secretary.
We recruited the best coach that South has seen for a long time in Lindsay Thomas together with many youngsters but there was an exodus of our good key players and four young players (2 to Dandenong VFA and 2 to Footscray) and once again we were faced with an uphill battle. Despite not winning a senior game we did come within one point at home against Hampton Park. The Seconds under Russell Jolley, managed a good win against Devon Meadows, were short of numbers all season but fought out every match. Lack of more regular training was on the part of many would have improved results. It would seem the club could not raise an unders side either this year.
Award Winners 1982
Senior Best and Fairest Lindsay Thomas
Runner Up Scott Elliott
Most Determined Bruce Chalk
Most Consistent David Sims
Most Improved Tom Newbiggin
Coach's Trophy Lou Nido
Seconds Best and Fairest Russell Jolley
Runner Up Richard Hobbs
Most Determined Werner Blasius
Most Consistent Peter Diprose
Coach's Trophy Peter Pratt
Best 1st Year Senior Player Andrew Turner
Best Clubman was awarded to Frank Moss.
1983 and a return to the Yarra Valley Mountain District Football League there was renewed interest at Committee level. Dick Pendlebury continued on as President with Russell Jolley as Vice President. Miss Karin Huber joined the club and took on the Secretary's position with Christine Rowney as Treasurer. The general committee consisted of four while the social committee had nine members. How impressed would any committee be with three wins in the first three games after about this many in five years in SWGFL?
Lindsay Thomas continued as coach of the first eighteen and unfortunately these wins could not be sustained. In fact after five losses on the trot all coaches and some senior players were becoming more desperate to succeed and several wins were recorded in the last half of the season - not enough to take place in the finals. The seconds ably led by Frank Moss won 13 of the 18 home and away games and consequently played in the first semi final but the odds were against us on this day. They had a good mix of young and older players, therefore giving a combination of ability, experience, youth and dedication - vital fundamentals of a successful football team. Not only did Frank take out the Club Best and Fairest but the League award as well. Rick Jorna and Scott Johnstone had a very successful year with the Under 17's who were far from the tallest side in the League. Despite their size no-one lacked courage and were often the players leaving a pack with the ball. Four Under 15 players played out the last five games which allowed the interchange bench to be used! The unders also finished their season after the first semi but showed plenty of promise.
Award Winners 1983
Seniors Best and Fairest Rick Jorna
Runner Up Rick Castricum
Most Determined Bruce Henry
Most Improved Wayne Holden
Coach's Trophy Ron McLeod
Reserves Best and Fairest Frank Moss
Runner Up George Kuffel
Most Determined Mick McLeod
Most Consistent Richard Hobbs
Coach's Trophy Geoff Rowney
Best 1st Year Senior Player Steven Sparshot
Under 17's Best and Fairest Scott Clarke
Runner Up Darren Pendlebury
Most Determined Craig Davey
Most Consistent Laurie Holmes
Most Improved Andrew Moore
Coach's Trophy Mark Thompson
Best Clubperson was awarded to Sue Wills
1984 Jim Romp was elected President and Ted Bentley was Vice President. Karin Huber commenced as Secretary but retired during the year and this position was taken by Irene Packer. Chris Rowney remained Treasurer. General Committee of 3 and social committee of 5. Jim Romp and Chris Rowney ran Bingo in the township each week throughout the year. With such a small committee the players were very often in giving a hand with the running of the Club.
Frank Moss senior coach and Bruce Henry seconds for the first time in many seasons reported an excess of player numbers - in fact rising to 60 after the commencement of the season. Assistance with coaching and selection was given by Lou Nido. The seniors enjoyed a reasonable amount of success to finish just outside the four on percentage and the Reserves also just missed a finals berth. The Under 17's, coached by Jim Huglin, were struggling for numbers to the extent that a few days prior to the first game they may have had to pull out of the competition. It was due to the Bayswater Youth Training Centre at the Basin who were able to provide enough boys on a Saturday to top up the local numbers. The Senior players were thanked for their support of the unders and making the Basin boys feel so much a part of the Club. With this increase in numbers the Under 17's were Runners Up to Belgrave's undefeated Premiership team of two years. Financially the club had a very good year due to extra effort put in by a large number of players.
Award Winners 1984
Seniors Best and Fairest Peter Wood
Runner Up Steven Sparshot
Most Determined Bruce Henry
Most Improved Craig Cordell
Coach's Trophy Richard Hobbs
Seconds Best and Fairest Mark Lennon
Runner Up Daran Salan
Most Determined G. Williamson
Most Consistent Craig Davey
Coach's Trophy Peter Dellios
Best 1st Year Senior Player Mick Slater
Under 17's Best and Fairest Darren Pendlebury
Runner Up Richard Bamblett
Most Determined Chris Huglin
Most Consistent D. Hill
Most Improved Grant Fuller
Coach's Trophy Keith Pendlebury
Best Clubperson was awarded to Mrs Lola Miles.
1985 The Club seemed a little unsettled this year with several resignations from Committee and Coaching staff. Despite this Ted Bentley, President reported that "it is to the credit of those who stuck by the club that we finished the season united. Even more pleasing is the fact that we have had a successful financial season due to the tireless work of a small but dedicated committee and will be in the black for season 1986." Ted was assisted by Brett Snowball as Vice President. Irene Packer started as Secretary and this position was covered by Lloyd Haslam during the year with Pam Snowball Treasurer. The general committee commenced with five but finished the year with just two while the social side consisted of three - certainly a difficult year.
Although Jim Castricum was appointed coach Bruce Henry appears to have done the job for most of the year as well as the reserves along with Tom Newbiggin. Playing-wise the season was a huge disappointment with only a handful of wins for the seniors and reserves. There was an exodus of several senior players and a lack of commitment by many during the year to the point that it was often difficult to actually put a team on the ground. Many players did not front even when selected to play. Richard Hobbs had the under 17's and they appeared to have much better success winning the first two, falling down against Belgrave, then winning 5, drawing one and losing only 3 of the following 9 games. We finished 5th though it should have been higher. The Basin boys continued to help out this season.
Award Winners 1985
Seniors Best and Fairest Brett Snowball
Reserves Best and Fairest Chris Lee
Under 17's Best and Fairest Steve Svaganovic
(Ed Note - there were no awards available in this Annual Report. AGM held mid August)
1986 Brett Snowball was elected President and Jim Romp Vice President. Pam Snowball must have been extremely busy as Secretary/Treasurer. The Committee of 5 looked to be moving in the right direction with four new young people elected. The social committee had also increased to five.
Not to be outdone Bruce Henry continued as Senior Coach, Tom Newbiggin with the Seconds. At the commencement of the season we had sufficient players (in excess of 50 attending training) and looked like we might go somewhere. As the season progressed the usual problems set in - less at training, struggling to make up sides and an overall lack of commitment. In our 40th Year there was talk of walking away from the sinking ship. Should we disband, amalgamate, or join another League? - very despondent stuff. There was no Under 17 report either except that they had a far better year than the Seniors and Reserves. Steve Svaganovic won League Under 17 Best and Fairest after taking off the Club award last season.
Award Winners 1986
Seniors Best and Fairest Ian Syme
Reserves Best and Fairest Lindsay Pitt, Laurie Holmes, Billy Painter
Under 17 Best and Fairest Ross Shepherd
Runner Up Mal Oram
1987 There were huge numbers that put their hands up to help this year but all that glitters is not gold. Irene Day took on the Presidents position with Vice Presidents Lyn Boxell and Tony Betts, the latter resigned during the year. Peter Pratt Secretary, Darren Sherriff Minutes Secretary, Pam & Brett Snowball Treasurers. Of the 14 who offered their help on committee just five finished the year out. However it was a different story from the social perspective - 13 put hands up and 13 remained. There was some hope for 1987.
And from a football point of view, coaches were appointed who had the dedication, respect and loyalty of the players. Keith Pritchett, Peter Ellis and for the unders, Jamie Banks assisted by Russell Jolley. For the first time since our return to YVMDFL our on field performance could not be questioned. We had the talent if not the dedication. Early in the season was looking promising until, with several injuries, we dropped a couple of games that we should have won and a few wheels started to squeak. The Reserves persevered and often took to the field with 4 or 5 players short and still backed up to help the Seniors out if named players did not front up for a game. For the first time in many years the club could field an Under 17's without the assistance of outside sources. Throughout the season the boys showed a lot of commitment and promise with finals being a real possibility.
History now tells us that 1987 was the season that could have been, since the League handed the club the following statement "South Belgrave Football Club is suspended by the YVMDFL for the remainder of games in all grades from 22/7/87."
Ed Note: Having been privy to correspondence from both the League and our Club I believe the Club was not totally to blame for this dilemma. There was considerable notice taken of heresay and mention of Club members when this may well not have been the case. Very late Umpires reports were submitted. Official investigations into all reported incidents did not occur and yet they were still used against the Club. Poor English and spelling from an official League source was very unprofessional and our Club administration was accused of that very same thing. From a Club point of view far more could have been done by all members, not just the committee, in dispersing some situations. After all the club exists for its members who we would assume want to be a part of the Club.
Further, had not a few dedicated committee personnel gone out of their way to get teams on the ground the club would most definitely have folded. In fact even when we were no longer able to be involved on game days, these dedicated few continued on to ensure the club was still in existence in 1988 and beyond.
Mention should be made that Andrew Abson was still leading the League Reserves Best and Fairest two weeks into the clubs' suspension.
There were no Life Memberships awarded.
Award Winners 1987
Senior Best and Fairest Les Hedger
Reserves Best and Fairest Andrew Abson
Under 17 Best and Fairest Stephen Robertson
Since it was apparent that we did not have the League's support, our Club sought a clearance at a Special Meeting of the League. A vote from all Clubs in the YVMDFL requested that South Belgrave remain a member of the League!!
1988 Ted Bentley was elected with Russell Jolley assisting, Graham Bentley Secretary, and Alicia Baker Treasurer and four committee personnel and as usual 8 people did the work of 16. An influx of young local players and three new coaches was just what the new committee was in need of. Unfortunately on the field it did not happen exactly as we had planned. To digress for one second, in order to indemnify Committee personnel against Insurance and Public Liability claims the Club became an Incorporated Association on 4th August 1988. Registered No. A0016473J.
A.(Perc) Henwood was appointed senior Coach, Tony Baker the reserves and Dale Jolley the unders. The seniors finished with the wooden spoon with just the one win from 18 games. This last place may have been avoided had Panton Hill not won our round 16 clash by one goal. We had the better percentage and even a draw would have got us off the bottom. When you are low on the ladder it's always difficult to get the players towards the end of the season. Although not necessarily so for this game but in the following round Olinda won 48.23.311 to 3.4.22, possibly our biggest defeat. Scruff reported that 42 players polled votes in the reserves yet we struggled for players in the latter half of the season. Mark Lee won the ressies B&F after only 7 reserves games. Seniors and reserves reported just a reasonable year however the Under 17's won that coveted Premiership flag in convincing fashion. The boys were easily beaten by Wandin three times during the season but still won the Grand Final with accurate kicking by 11 points. 12.2. 74 to 8.15.63. Craig Kozina captained the side while Stephen Robertson was vice captain.
Award Winners 1988
Seniors Best and Fairest Darren Lee
Runner Up Frank Moss
Most Determined Gary Harris
Most Improved Daryl Weir
Coach's Trophy Ross Shepherd
Reserves Best and Fairest Mark Lee
Runner Up Tony Baker
Most Determined Billy Painter
Most Consistent Karsten Laukart
Coach's Trophy Billy Painter
Best 1st Year Senior Player Dennis Balding
Under 17's Best and Fairest Dean Tulk
Runner Up Craig Kozina
Most Determined Gary Semple
Most Improved Danny Wills
Coach's Trophy Phillip Galante
Best 1st Year Unders Player Jason Brockwell
Best Finals Player Brad Clifford
Goal Kicking Award Stephen Robertson
Best Clubman was awarded to Russell Jolley who also put the boots on for 3 games this year.
1989 We are obviously still going through lean times as there are still many who are not prepared to roll up their sleeves and assist the Club. Ted Bentley continues as President with Russell Jolley and Frank Moss as Vice Presidents, Secretary/Treasurer Graham Bentley and a general committee of just three. The season did not start very well with no licence, no money, no players and from some blokes around town, no guts. During the year, that all important licence was granted after considerable work by Ted, a lot of debts were paid, a shed/garage was purchased for new changerooms which would free up the old rooms for social activities and the club was at least on track.
Ted announces that he must resign at the end of the year due to heart surgery but says he'll remain around the Club as that's one thing the surgeons can't remove from his heart. It's a pity there weren't another twenty like Ted in the last 10 years or so!
And now to the years' football. Both seniors and reserves were coached by Ray Nilson who was assisted by a small group of dedicated South people in order to get two sides on the ground each week, many of whom played eight quarters of football rather than let their mates down. The seniors finished one game better than last season with 2 wins. At the end of the season Ray provided the club with some very good suggestions in order to become more competitive. We need at least three trainers of quality to meet the demands of 3 football sides, incentive payments to senior players to apply themselves more and strive for finals. Personal pre-season training and both sessions of training during the year needed more discipline in order for players and the Club to be successful. For the future it would be wise to appoint a playing coach to both seniors and reserves and recruit three or four quality players. A major disappointment was only winning two senior games during the season but the reserves win at Belgrave was like winning a Grand Final with much celebrating after the game. Dale Jolley once again fronted up to coach the Under 17's which was a little more challenging this year since we were undermanned for most of our early games but still managed to play in the Preliminary Final. Brad Clifford was particularly successful in winning the League Best and Fairest Award as well as the Club's award.
Award Winners 1989
Seniors Best and Fairest Frank Moss
Runner Up Bruce Schwarze
Most Determined Dale Jolley
Most Improved Karsten Laukart
Coach's Trophy Mick Pollard
Seconds Best and Fairest George Kufel
Runner Up Mick David
Most Determined Jamie Campbell
Most Consistent Peter Fatouros
Coach's Trophy Peter Fatouros
Best 1st Year Senior Player Brett Oram
Under 17's Best and Fairest Brad Clifford
Runner Up Jason Brockwell
Most Determined Duncan McRae
Most Improved Jonas Edelston
Coach's Trophy Glen Sutton
Most Consistent Richard Olbrich
Best 1st Year Player Keith Layton
Best Finals Player Jonas Edelston
Under 17 Goal Kicking Jason Brockwell
Best Clubman was again awarded to Russell Jolley
1990 After the AGM in October '89 it was as if nothing was ever going to change at South. That same small band of workers elected again was an ominous sign. However the tin shed was erected to provide new change rooms for both South and visitors. Improvements were completed to the old brick changerooms to provide for a social focus. We had a great turnout of local players and a good influx of new players - training as well if you don't mind! Members supported the social functions regularly and the club came out on top, financially. I nearly forgot to mention that small band of workers that delegated their authority. Russell Jolley was President, Vice President Frank Moss, Secretary/Treasurer Graham Bentley and a general committee of five. Ted had his operation and was back in helping as usual
Del Fisher was appointed senior coach. He was an inspiration to his followers and full of enthusiasm, a breath of fresh air for the Club. Several players followed him from down in the Gully. We moved off the bottom with six wins and if not for early injuries and dropping one easy game we may quite easily have featured in some September action. A bond of friendship developed throughout the club as the year progressed. Reserves were coached by Ken Thomas while Craig Kozina was appointed to the Under 17's. Most interesting was the Best and Fairest result of Shane Brockwell and Frank Moss - both being League Runners Up in their respective grades.
Award Winners 1990
Seniors Best and Fairest Shane Brockwell
Runner Up Brett Oram
Most Determined Simon Davies
Most Consistent Mark Rietmueller
Most Improved Darren Bourke
Best Utility Ken Thomas
Coach's Trophy Darrell Franks
Seconds Best and Fairest Frank Moss
Runner Up George Kufel
Most Determined Brian Pedler
Most Consistent Richard Olbrich
Best Utility D Macintyre
Coach's Trophy Richard Olbrich
Best 1st Year Senior Player Jochim Stegemeier
Under 17's Best and Fairest Jeremy Thomas
Runner Up Jason Finger
Most Determined Matthew Reid
Most Improved Matthew Laukart
Most Consistent Kym Johnson
Coach's Trophy Tim Carroll
Best 1st Year Player Damian Assender
Best Clubman was awarded to Brett Oram
To finish the year a couple of quotes are relevant. "All debts are now paid and we should be able to start 1991 season in the black. So let's get behind the new committee and coaches and make South Belgrave a force to be reckoned with!" and one from Del "The commitment has to be 100% from every person - committee, player and spectator to achieve our claim to be the best club in the competition" Inspirational stuff!!
1991 Russell Jolley is back in the chair assisted by Leon Wyzenbeek, Secretary Miss Sharon Hunter and Treasurer Graham Bentley and once again a general committee of five. The new social venue was getting a hammering and the financial position again improved dramatically.
Under Del Fisher the seniors finished just out of the four with 9 wins and 9 losses - 6 losses under 20 points and 3 over 10 goals. Every game was a hard one and the gap between top and bottom sides wasn't all that large. There was a noted improvement from the previous season and the future looked promising. The reserves were well coached by Frank Moss to finish in third position on the ladder with 13 wins and 4 losses. Jamie Banks kicked himself into the League Record books top scoring in the reserves with 51 goals. Unfortunately we failed by just 8 points in the Preliminary Final. Craig Kozina was again appointed Under 17 coach but was unfortunately stifled through lack of players. For 85% of the season the team played with between 13 and 15 players to record just two wins.
Award Winners 1991
Seniors Best and Fairest Anthony Hawken
Runner Up Andrew Moore
Most Determined Darrell Franks
Most Consistent Des Fitzsimmons
Most Improved Robert Ackerley
Best Utility Scott Clarke
Coach's Trophy Steve Russell
Reserves Best and Fairest Greg Hudson
Runner Up Frank Moss
Most Determined Colin Gatti
Most Consistent Brett Jarvis
Best Utility John Taylor
Coach's Trophy Tim Rees
Best Finals Player Mal Oram
Under 17's Best and Fairest Damian Assender
Runner Up Kym Johnson
Most Determined Andrew Deidun
Most Consistent Leigh Durbin
Most Improved Troy Maker
Best Utility John Maiden
Coach's Trophy Deon Eruvelil
Best 1st Year Player Simon Green
Best Clubman was awarded to Graham Bentley.
1992 This Season Del Fisher not only continued as Coach but also as President and Treasurer. He was certainly giving his all to ensure South Belgrave Football Club was successful. Kelly Bentley was secretary. Although we did not collect any flags for the wardrobe, we won many games including the landmark win over Belgrave at Belgrave. The seniors finished the year in 6th position with 10 wins/8 losses while the reserves were 7th with 8/10. The under 18's gave us some hope for the year finishing 3rd on 13/5 to play Croydon North in the first semi final. Richie Fahie was leading goal kicker in 2nd Division under 18's with 55 while brother Chris won the Club's unders Best and Fairest. Seniors Best and Fairest was awarded to Paul Fitzsimmons with Mal Oram taking out the Reserves. Importantly, financially we finished in the black. During August word was received that many buildings at an Army Medical School were being sold and a delegation of Ted Bentley, Mike Bedford (Netball club), Ross Colby and Tim Rees, headed up to Healesville to inspect them. Decisions needed to be made in a hurry since all buildings, and there were about 20 of them, had to be removed from the site by October. The buildings turned out to be just what was needed at the Belgrave South Recreation Reserve at a cost of $2,500 each. The Footy Club purchased two, the Netball Club two and the Junior Footy Club two to be used at the Narre Warren East Reserve. An urgent request was sent to the Shire for a permit to install them at each site but this had not been received by the time the buildings - on trucks, all dismantled and parts numbered to allow for faster assembly, arrived in the area. It was intended to store them at a Car Park beside the Pony Club off
1993 Russell Jolley headed up a very strong Committee. Vice Presidents, Tom Ellerkamp and Paul Arbuthnot, Secretary Chris Cormack, Treasurer Karsten Laukart, and a general committee of seven including the Building Manager, Ross Colby.
Chris Cormack's comments probably reflected the feeling around the club at the end of the year "everyone must agree our most successful year since 1977!" Let's first look at the football side of our club.
Seniors were coached by a very professional John Colby who had returned from a similar position at the Gully. Des Fitzsimmons his assistant coach, Paul Arbuthnot Reserves Coach, Harry Ooykaas Chairman of Selectors, Mark Tonkin Team Runner, Bill Cormack Team Manager, and the very experienced Brad Robins as Trainer. Training commenced well before Christmas in 1992 and during pre-season the players had a training camp at Rawson. With clearances not getting through on time we went down at Powelltown in the first match. We also lost another early game against Yarra Junction but went on to win 12 out of the remaining 14 games. At the end we sat in 3rd position with 12/4 ahead of Powelltown. In the first semi we rolled Powelly 20.19. 139 to 16.12.108 while the following week Yarra Glen flogged the Junction by 128 points in the 2nd Semi. And so we went into the Prelim at Avonsleigh against the eagles, winning 16.13. 109 to 13.10. 88 only to lose the Grand Final at Woori, to Yarra Glen by 29 points 14.20. 104 to 12.3. 75.
Unfortunately most people will say that we played our Grand Final the week before against Yarra Junction where we came from nine goals down in the final quarter - to win. Even though the flag was not ours, the partly completed Social Rooms were used to party as if we had! John Colby finished the year with the following " the club has commenced a very successful period and it would be tragic not to take advantage of the hard work put in by the Club in the last three or more years." Shane Cross was Runner up League best and fairest and Runner up in the "Player of the Year Award also. Shane Brockwell finished fourth in the best and fairest and was selected to play in the victorious Interleague side against SWGFL kicking 2 goals.
The Reserves finishing in 4th position with nine wins played off in the 1st Semi Final against Seville who had 13 wins during the season and it would be expected that we would not be any match for the Blues. Well we didn't go down without a fight, losing by just one solitary point in a very low scoring affair 5.9. 39 to 5.8. 38. The Under 18's with Peter Pratt as coach and Jason Brockwell Assistant missed the four on percentage. Their year was particularly interesting in that they had 6 wins, 5 losses and no less than three draws - one against top team Belgrave, one against 2nd placed Croydon Nth and one against 4th placed Seville who finished with 7/6 and the draw. Indeed a successful year for the Club!!
Richie Fahie easily won the Under 18's Best and Fairest by 12 votes (David Wirrapunda was equal 2nd) and also the League's award together with Runner up in the goal kicking, while Rik Crook won the Seniors League goal kicking with 98 for the season which he increased considerably during the finals series.
It would be remiss if we did not include a building report since this was probably the most significant improvement at the Reserve since the Club's formation all completed by voluntary labour. As mentioned Ross Colby supervised the project and Council gave permission to commence work in January of this year. Many trucks trailers and utes were used to collect all materials from the Lysterfield compound where they had been stored since the previous October. By the end of the season with working bees almost every Sunday, Ross asked members not to become complacent since the septic treatment plant still had to be installed and inside fittings needed completing. Lindy Colby (now Lindy Bills) dedicated herself to providing all workers with morning tea and lunch on most working bees - the scones with jam and cream were something else! The following motion was moved by Bill Cormack, seconded by Frank Moss "that the Club recognise the exceptional efforts of Ross Colby and Ted Bentley to acquire new social rooms for the club"
Importantly the whole Club was firing "on all four"
Award Winners 1993
Seniors Best and Fairest Shane Cross (46)
Runner Up Shane Brockwell (37)
3rd Stephen Lee (27)
Reserves Best and Fairest Andrew Deidun (26)
Runner Up Jason Holmes and Shane Kennedy (25)
3rd Kym Johnson
Under 18's Best and Fairest Richie Fahie (54)
Runner Up Mick Carter (32)
3rd Juan Fitzgerald (29)
No nominations were received for Life Memberships.
1994 The Club was still on a high and many put their hands up to help. Bill Cormack was elected President and Tom Ellerkamp Vice President/Secretary, Karsten Laukart Treasurer, six on general committee and a separate social committee of four. Due to ill-health Bill was unable to continue after summer and Russell Jolley was elected to fill the vacant position of President.
Work on the Social rooms continued at a steady pace still with Ross Colby as overseer. Last year there was acknowledgement to Scruff and BFI for provision of trucks, Bill Cormack roof plumbing and maintenance, Shane Brockwell donation of sisalation foil, Mal Lees and Glen Honan electrical work, Darren Voigt and Bruce Schwarz plastering, Pickle, Pete Cormack and Lindy. In his final report Ross would say " Our effort in completing the treatment plant/absorption field during April/May was remarkable with around 30 people moving 80 ton of screenings by hand in one weekend and the generous support of local machine operators, Catman Excavations, Graham Hawes, and John Younger, was sensational. Some important contributions from Andy Freeman and Pete Cormack on plumbing the treatment plant, Bill Cormack who rounded up idle residents on a Tuesday to assist completion of the building, Rohan Marshall, Ollie Cheek, Shane Brockwell and Mal Oram for paving the verandah at the front of the rooms, Shane Kennedy and Craig Davey for work to the Bar and floors, John Bourke for supplying underlay and laying the carpet, Ted Bentley assistant project manager and painting foreman, the Laukart family for donation and installation of the security shutter for the bar, Stephen Lee for raising the funds for heating and entertainment. Special thanks to Russell Jolley who never missed a Sunday and always found something constructive to do, and to my wife Lindy who without her support over a two year period I would never have made it. A lot of people were skeptical and doubted that we could finish what we had started but too many people worked too hard to throw in the towel."
The new facility with all fixtures and fittings completed and paid for by volunteer Club Members and supporters was opened by our local Federal Member, Bob Charles MP on the 23rd July 1994.
And while all of this was going on we were still training and playing football!!
John Colby continued as senior coach and was optimistic that we would achieve the success that eluded us in 1993. Des was again assistant coach and Harry Ooykaas invaluable as chairman of selectors. Shane Brockwell, Captain, led from the front in every way and set a wonderful example finishing 3rd in the "Player of the Year Award". After a well-attended pre-season, the Club got off to a reasonable start against Croydon North and Kinglake but soon came back to earth after a crushing defeat at the hands of Seville. It was obvious we needed to recoup some of last years players and by the half way mark we were at full strength regaining players such as Del Fisher, Steve Russell, Shane Cross, and Stephen Lee. After handing out thrashings to Croydon North and Seville in the home and away matches we seemed to be back on track sitting on top at season's end with 12/3 and a draw against our neighbours Belgrave who finished 2nd. With a great year behind him Rik Crook came in for a bit more attention this season, finishing well down the goal kicking with a tally of 40. Peter Murphy (knobby) and Shane Cross both featured in the top seven of the League vote count while Frank Moss finished 2nd in the Reserves count. In the first semi, Kinglake accounted for Seville and in the 2nd Semi we produced a crushing defeat of the Maggies 18.20. 128 to 11.8.74 and advanced to the Grand Final against Kinglake. In the final quarter of this last game of the year we were on the move with around 10 minutes to play and 20 odd points behind. Some niggling in our forward line developed into a fracas and three of our players were sent from the ground. Kinglake did not take full advantage of this situation but had enough lead to win the premiership 15.14.104 to 11.10. 76.
The Reserves Coached by Darryl Jarman, finished 3rd with 12 wins and 4 losses and won their first final by accounting for Belgrave by one solitary point 9.11 65 to 8.16 64. However in the Preliminary Final they were easily accounted for by Croydon North 16.12.108 to 10.9.69.
Tony Blakey offered to coach the Under18 side but with the likelihood of not enough players he resigned. Paul Christensen chased players from Boronia, Bayswater, The Basin and even as far as Mitcham until we had a competitive team and consequently Paul was handed the coaching position. With such a shortage we had to forfeit the first match but had 13 for the second game, while Richie Fahie Mick Carter and Peter Pratt were all doing their level best to improve numbers to the point at one stage where there were 30 on the list. Travis McIntyre Captain, and Bill Lillicrapp Vice Captain both showed great leadership. Surprisingly this was Billy's first year of football but finished just one vote behind Travis in the Best and Fairest. Another interesting fact is that nine players in this team which almost didn't get off the ground continued on to play Senior footy with our club. Unfortunately several members and the committee in general were a little stand-offish in regard to the under 18 side and could have put more effort in to assisting Paul. The boys finished 5th in a seven team competition.
Award Winners 1994
Seniors Best and Fairest Peter Murphy (50)
Runner Up Des Fitzsimmons (32)
3rd Geoff Smith (31)
Reserves Best and Fairest Jamie Campbell (32)
Runner Up Tony Baker (31)
3rd Jason Holmes (28)
Under 18's Best and Fairest Travis McIntyre (23)
Runner Up Bill Lillicrapp (22)
3rd (equal) Mark Pittaway and Jason Taylor (18)
A very deserving Ross Colby was awarded Life Membership of the Club.
In the League Second Division Reserves vote count Mossy was again runner up Best and Fairest with 12 votes while the winner collected 16.
There was an announcement at the Annual Meeting that the Club had been allocated $40,000 by the Shire to improve/extend the existing brick building.
1995 After such a wonderful two years as Project Manager of the new Social Rooms, Ross Colby was elected President with Vice Presidents in Russell Jolley and Ted Bentley. Secretary was Tom Ellerkamp and Treasurer Karsten Laukart, general committee of 14 and Social Committee of five. At the beginning of May Tom resigned as Secretary and Robert Cusworth-Warner filled the position. Ross Colby also resigned with an impending trip to the West and an extended stay. John Ryan was elected to the President's role.
Mick Mott was selected to coach the seniors and with quite a number of previous Senior players hanging up the boots we had to re-build the team. Pre-season commenced in the heat of mid January with good numbers but we lost our first game against Belgrave then followed a five-game winning streak. At the half way mark we were sitting second on the ladder. We had lost some form but were still able to win enough games to finish fourth with 10 wins and 6 losses. Unfortunately we lost the 1st semi final against Kinglake 15.17.107 to 8.3.51. Ray Marshall was our top goal scorer with 48 (3rd top in 2nd Division with Chris Fahie finishing in 6th spot). Paul Marshall was 8th in the League vote count.
The Reserves were much more successful bringing home the silverware. Plugger, Rik Crook coached a very even side with Shane Kennedy Captain, The side consisted of around 36 players throughout the season. We finished on top of the ladder with 15 wins and one loss - the last game of the season against Kinglake. We disposed of Seville comfortably 12.15 to 6.18 in the Second Semi and met Belgrave in the Grand Final. Certainly it was not a very tight affair with South winning 12.6.78 to 5.15.45. Jamie Banks was League 2nd top goal kicker on 34 with Jamie Campbell and Darryl Jarman also in the top ten. We also had three players in the Reserves League best and fairest with Alister Baldwin (5th) Shane Kennedy and Andrew Abson.
The Under 18's were coached by Paul Christensen, again chasing players from around the planet to form a side and struggled for numbers all season to finish at the bottom of the table with 3 and 13 - not forgetting that at least we had a side for some to continue on in Senior Footy. Bill Lillicrapp finished 5th in the League vote count.
Award Winners 1995
Seniors Best and Fairest Geoff Smith
Runner Up Paul Marshall
Most Determined Ray Marshall
Most Consistent Chris Fahie
Coach's Award Adam Finger
Best 1st Year Player Rohan Marshall
Reserves Best and Fairest Damian Assender
Runner Up Alistair Baldwin
Most Determined Ian Syme
Most Consistent Brett Jarvis
Coach's Award Matthew Reid
Best Finals Player Mal Oram
Under 18's Best and Fairest Nathan Frawley
Runner Up Bill Lillicrapp
Most Determined Charles Caldwell & Gavin Fox
Most Consistent John Landon
Most Improved Tristan Cotter
Coach's Award Stephen Archer
Best Utility David Archer
Kel Veal Memorial Award John Landon
Best Clubperson was awarded to Lindy Colby and Life Membership was bestowed on Anthony (Scruff) Baker.
The Extensions to the old brick changerooms commenced with Trainers and Umpires rooms added to the South side of the building. At the rear the old tin shed remained for the time being awaiting Council permits. At the end of the '95 season progress was slow and more help was required.
1996 President John Ryan was assisted by Allan McIntyre as Vice President, Robert Cusworth-Warner Secretary, Jenal Percy Treasurer, 13 general committee and social committee of nine. The constitution has come under a bit of a hammering in recent years and this year we voted on a Notice of Motion that allowed more than one person to be nominated for Life Membership. Ed Note : I assume several players will shortly have reached the magical 10 year milestone. Jenal was unable to complete the year due interstate travel and Karsten, the club's greatest treasurer returned to the post. This year we celebrated 50 years of Footy at South and a wonderful weekend was had over the weekend of 27th July with the Saturday evening function held in the packed Narre Warren North hall. The changeroom renovations were slow but ready for occupation by the first game. However the hot water system upgrade for the showers was not finished until towards the end of the season.
League historian, Marc Fiddian noted in our "Football Record" that keen competition in 2nd Division is not only rewarded by possible promotion to 1st Division but is an asset to the League as a whole.
The Unders were coached by senior player Dave Standeven with assistance from Leigh (Hoppy) Bennett. These boys lost only one home and away game for the season finishing well clear of Emerald at the top of the table and included the League's Best and Fairest Andrew Stockx, Runner Up Chris Beardshaw, and 3rd Bill Lillicrapp and another 23 really great players. Both Mark Pittaway and Chris Beardshaw featured in the League's top ten goal kickers. This season was an extremely poor 2nd Division Under 18 comp with only 6 teams participating and the end result meant that we played the same opposition regularly - Yarra Junction six times. The second semi final was a disaster game with Emerald winning 11.7.73 to South 3.3.21. In the Preliminary Final we came up against Powelltown and provided the supporters with a little hope for the Grandie winning 12.12.84 to 3.9.27. However it was not to be our year as Emerald were on song on this particular day winning 10.10.70 to South 4.4.28. Our better players being David McLennan, Steve Madden, Peter Wijsma, Jarrad McConkey, Brock Lantsbery and Chris Bradshaw. The goals came from Dave McLennan, Brock Lantsbery, Andrew Stockx, and Jason Dowling.
Following on from Captain of a Premiership team last season Shane Kennedy coached the Reserves to the Preliminary Final. With 50 Years behind us who would ever believe that the hardest job for the Reserves Coach would be too many players and giving everyone a fair go. Sometimes the team stability would be disrupted but at least we had depth to cover injuries. Mick Carter was Captain of the team. We finished the season in second spot behind Emerald winning 13 and losing 5. In the Second Semi against Emerald we went down by 45 points 14.10.94 to 6.13.49 and faced Powelltown in the Prelim at Avonsleigh. Despite having a great season we were not good enough on the day going down 11.8.74 to 5.8.38 and Powelltown went on to win the Flag.
Ed Note: This year I've left the best till last! Rik Crook was appointed Senior Coach following his success with the Reserves in '95. We had a wonderful mix of young enthusiastic players and more seasoned players and Rik molded them into a very good team which won the ultimate prize at the end of the season after a drought of 19 years. Brad Robins, trainer for several years and Ray Baker left us and they were replaced by Michael, Gamal, Chris and Kathy. We would have been the envy of most other clubs in this department. Des Fitzsimmons returned from Fair Park to take on assistant Coach with Scruff Baker Chairman of Selectors, Peter Pratt team manager, Chris Cormack runner. For many players pre-season had commenced well before that pronounced by Rik and the weekend bus trip to Port Albert was well attended. On training nights all coaches had plenty to do, with sometimes up to 80 players on the track. Unfortunately unpopular decisions had to be made for the good of the team. We even had the luxury of a stats man in Brad Trinnick. Rik would finish his Senior Coach's Report in the following fashion - " What can I say about the Captain who, when the score was dead level, marked 40 metres out with 5 minutes to go and at the same time suffered a fairly average head-high tackle, faked a broken jaw, happily took the 50 metres and made no mistake. Chris Fahie, great leadership! Any coach would be very proud of a Captain who kicked five out of seven goals in the Grand Final.
And the following three articles appeared in the YVMDFL Football Record after each of our Finals games.
"Bombers Blitz" Emerald had a fantastic day at Monbulk last Saturday with all three sides advancing to the second division grand finals. The Senior side was dominant after half time in their 46 point disposal of South Belgrave. Emerald have had the Saints measure for most of the season and despite the brilliant performance of South's Paul Marshall, Emerald had the answers in Danny Thomas, Mark Butler, Geoff Ladner and young Steve McIntyre.
The first quarter was a scrappy affair and both sides struggled to find their forwards. It was a battle of the half back lines as misdirected kicks were the norm early as the pressure was on. It was the Bombers who broke through first when last seasons playing coach Wayne Corbett goaled from near the boundary line. Bomber full forward Jeff Banks followed soon after when he marked and converted from 40 metres out. Mick Mott was playing well at full back on Earl Godfrey but Godfrey broke free late in the term to take a telling mark and kick truly to bring the quarter time score to Emerald 2.6 to South 1.0
After finding the goals hard to come by early both sides found the goals easier in the second quarter. South lifted to kick seven goals for the quarter and take a two point lead into half time. The Saints first came through an Emerald error, the Bombers overusing the handball on the backline and Earl Godfrey kicked a major as a result. Emerald bounced back to kick the next two, a lucky bounce allowed Jeff Banks to kick a brilliant left foot goal from near the boundary line and Mark Butler followed with a goal on the run. Godfrey kicked his third when he marked 35 metres out and when Ray Marshall marked a spearing Shannon Yates pass only two metres out the Saints were looking good. The game then went goal for goal. Butler kicked truly for Emerald and this was answered by a Ray Marshall snapshot. Two more goals were kicked by both sides and the final part of the quarter saw Paul Marshall show his brilliance to kick two. The first was in front of goal as he managed to get space alone to mark a Matt McKittrick pass and his second was all class as he dodged and weaved around a pack and kicked a left foot major from 30 metres.
South Belgrave's momentum was lost in the third term as Emerald turned on a football display with 6 goals while holding the Saint goalless. The Bombers set up a commanding lead of 37 points at three quarter time. Although South kept fighting it out the game was all but over at three quarter time and Emerald ran out winners by 46 points. 18.12.120 to 11.8.74.
"South Too Talented" South Belgrave showed they will not just hand over the Premiership to Emerald when they defeated Croydon North in the preliminary final at Avonsleigh last Saturday. South won by 19 points and looked in control of the game from the start. The Saints now clash with their bogey side Emerald.
South dominated the midfield, played well in the air and their forward line got plenty of the footy but couldn't kick goals. Matt Kenny was a prime example missing some costly shots early in the first quarter. Croydon North surprised with some unusual positional moves. Anthony Bright started at centre half back with Danny O'Sullivan and John Post in the forward line. O'Sullivan opened the game with a mark and goal from the forward pocket but the rest of the quarter was all South. Dandenong Stingrays player Andrew Williams, kicked a right foot snapshot to goal for the Saints and this was followed by Shane Brockwell's major through heavy traffic followed by David Standeven's run on to a Shane Brockwell hand pass to goal on the run. At quarter time it was South 3.7 to North 1.2
Croydon North had the wind advantage in the second term but failed to take advantage of this, they were slow out of the blocks and South seemed to play all over them. South dominated the early stages of the second term and when they received a free kick on the backline it allowed them to rebound the ball and found Shannon Yates who kicked truly on his left foot. Chris Fahie was playing well on the Saints forward line and when he took a diving mark and goaled the game seemed to be all but over. Accurate kicking would have sealed the game for South but their general on field dominance was evident throughout the first half. The half time scores were South 5.11 to North 1.3.
The third quarter saw North move players around to try to peg back the score. Anthony Bright went back into the forward line but Des Fitzsimmons was beating him. John Post moved to centre half back and took some telling marks but the margin appeared too big to peg back. Some bad defensive play from South Belgrave saw Danny O'Sullivan kick the first goal of the term when the Saint went across the face of goal and Bright kicked truly for North later on. The rain started to pour down and the margin became increasingly difficult for North to bring back. The game deteriorated and the skill level dropped. Chris Fahie kicked his second for the game later on in the quarter and at the final change it was South leading by 29 points. The last term saw Croydon North come out fighting and they never gave in. Dave McLean kicked the first when he streamed down the ground to goal on the run for North. A further goal to North came from the boot of Graeme O'Sullivan when he floated down into the forward line unmarked and kicked truly. North now trailed by 17 points and were toiling hard. Ray Marshall found Andrew Williams who took a strong grab to put through another major to wrap up the game for the Saints. Williams could be the key to the Saints premiership aspirations. He has hardly played for South this season due to VSFL commitments but played a great game on the wing and across the forward line for the Saints. The Football Record Journalist found his 3, 2, and 1 votes on the day as follows :
3. Shane Brockwell (South Belgrave) Brocky was great roving in the heavy conditions and played a part in many goals. His numerous possessions around the ground allowed plenty of the footy to go South's way.
2. Andrew Williams (South Belgrave) an unknown quantity in second division circles, a player with the Dandenong Stingrays who starred early on a wing and then was great across half forward. Could be a surprise packet in the Grand Final.
1. David Standeven (South Belgrave) a good solid game across the forward line. Played a part in many forward thrusts for the Saints. Other Players worthy of a mention included Ray Marshall, Richie and Chris Fahie.
"South Wins Flag" South Belgrave won a thrilling grand final against Emerald by 6 points last Saturday at Monbulk. Captain Chris Fahie the hero kicking five of his sides seven goals including the match winner. With conditions poor due to overnight rain and the two previous games the match was survival of the fittest. It was South Belgrave's first senior YVMDFL premiership in their 50th year of celebrations. What made the win even sweeter was the absence of star on-baller Paul Marshall, missing through injury but played a major role inspiring brother Ray (wearing Paul's No 7 to throw the opposition) to best on ground honours. The vocal crowd and electric atmosphere made for a great spectacle and it was fitting that the two best sides in second division played an epic end to the season.
The first term started with Emerald doing all the early attacking and Liam Megarrell broke the shackles with the first major of the game through a right foot snap shot. South soon replied when Chris Fahie took a strong mark and goaled after receiving a 50 metre penalty. The rest of the quarter was a battle of the half back lines before Andrew Megarrell goaled on the run for the Bombers. Megarrell along with Danny Thomas and Daryl Lucas was having a good first quarter as was South's Adam Finger on a wing and rover Ray Marshall. Matt Kenny kicked truly from a free late in the term and at the break it was South by a point.
The second term started with South full of running and David Standeven opened the account when he marked alone on the forward line from an Andrew Williams pass. A Shane Brockwell tackle won South a free and Brocky found his skipper in Chris Fahie who goaled. Emerald did not give in however and Daryl Lucas marked, received another 50 metre penalty and kicked an easy goal. At half time it was South 4.3 to Emerald 3.6. Since no side could gain an advantage the second half was looking good.
Chris Fahie opened the third term with a goal after a Shannon Yates pass but the rest of the quarter belonged to the Bombers. Jeff Banks marked, received a 50 and goaled and Mark Butler then inspired his Emerald teammates with some superb forward play kicking the next two majors which led the Bombers into three quarter time with an eight point lead.
The last term was fantastic; the crowd was alive as the supporters went wild. The electric atmosphere inspired the Saints. Chris Fahie goaled through heavy traffic on his left foot and the margin was back to a point. The play was generally on South's half forward area as Emerald could not muster anything over their own half forward line. Matt Kenny had a shot for South and kicked the ball out on the full and when Ray Marshall had a shot with just 10 minutes to go scores were level as he registered a behind. Late in the term Chris Fahie marked in the bottom forward pocket and when Tony Walker gave away a 50 metre penalty, Fahie's subsequent goal gave the Saints a six point lead and that was how it was to stay as the siren sounded. The final score was South 7.6 to Emerald 6.6 as the Bombers were kept scoreless in the final term. The Football Record Journalist recorded his 3, 2, and 1 votes as follows :-
3 Chris Fahie (South Belgrave) a real captain's game, the forward pocket kicked five of seven goals and led from the front.
2. Ray Marshall (South Belgrave) winner of the Best on Ground Medal, "Razor" was inspirational in the middle and was a deserved winner.
3 Adam Finger (South Belgrave) lifted immensely on a wing in the pressure of a grand final. A fantastic effort from "Fingers"
South Goalkickers : Chris Fahie 5, Matt Kenny and David Standeven 1 each
South Best Players : Chris Fahie, Ray Marshall, Adam Finger, Jason Holmes, Shane Brockwell, Matt McKittrick
We had three players in the Leagues top ten goal kickers - Ray Marshall (56) Chris Fahie (48) and Matt Kenny (41).
And Finally Club Award Winners 1996
Seniors Best and Fairest Paul Marshall
Runner Up Peter Murphy
Most Determined Rohan Marshall
Most Consistent Shannon Yates
Coach's Award Jason Brockwell
Best Finals Player Shannon Yates
Paul Powell Memorial Award Peter Murphy
Reserves Best and Fairest Danny Malcholm
Runner Up Jamie Campbell
Most Determined Ray Nillson
Most Consistent Andrew Deidun
Coach's Award Jason Taylor
Best Finals Player Nick Dwyer
Best 1st Year Player Matt Kenny
Under 18's Best and Fairest Daniel Sharp
Runner Up Chris Beardshaw
Most Determined Peter Wijsma
Most Consistent Andrew Stockx
Coach's Award Daniel Belyea
Best Finals Player Andrew Stockx
Kel Veal Memorial Award Adrian Hall
In the League Best and Fairest count, as well as the Under 18's mentioned in the article above, Paul Marshall was Runner Up in the seniors count.
Best Clubperson for the Year was awarded to Dianne Murphy.
Life Memberships were awarded to David Murphy, Karsten Laukart and Mal Oram.
1997 After such a successful year we entered 1st Division of YVMDFL and John Ryan continued as President with Allan McIntyre as Vice President, Secretary Robert Cusworth-Warner, Treasurer Karsten Laukart and general committee of 13. There were still many who were prepared to continue on to assist the Club - this was a good sign. However 1st Division was another thing but we did not finish exactly on the bottom and won three games. The League decided that there would be a better Under 18 Competition if 1st and 2nd division clubs were combined with 14 clubs participating and an eight team Finals format. This was a good idea except that the Unders were often playing at another venue which required extra helpers, trainers and supporters! At the end of '96 Woori called a meeting of clubs interested in starting up a Veterans competition playing fortnightly for those who had hung up their boots from official games. We joined this competition with Croydon Nth, Woori, Monbulk and Healesville and although Wandin played a friendly the season before they were unable to raise numbers in'97. To assist teams to gain a side the minimum age was set at 32 with a maximum of two players younger than that. Our Jamie Campbell, still putting in a fair game in the Reserves in 2006 was one of those players. Some players can never retire!! At South it was thought that this concept would be good for the club bringing in a few more dollars from an older group and in actual fact with just 8 games through the first year we paid for the new set of jumpers and a bit extra. Robert Cusworth-Warner was elected Secretary of the Veterans League Group which was not an official part of the YVMDFL at this time.
Even though we had our wonderful new Social rooms as we entered 1st Division it seemed like there were many items around the Reserve that needed bringing up to speed. We sold the garage/shed early in the year expecting that Council would approve the plans for the new addition (visitors changerooms and store) but this did not happen and we are still awaiting a permit after some amendments to the plans. The visitors coaches box, having been shifted to the east side of the oval last year was returned to its rightful place on the western flank. A donation of Besser Blocks allowed the construction of a gatekeepers box which was hardly used this season due to exceptionally dry weather however it still got a bit cold and one nameless gatekeeper tried unsuccessfully to burn it down!! Continuing discussions have taken place into drainage of the oval which may commence over the coming summer. We tendered for more lighting towers that were advertised but were unsuccessful in our bid. The new enclosed scoreboard is also under discussion at Club level but may be shelved for some time.
Senior Coach was again Rik Crook and of course many more senior players had played their last game in the Grand Final last year which left many young players to gain good experience at this level. Shane Brockwell was assistant coach and Des Fitzsimmons Chairman of Selectors. Captain of the side was Chris Fahie. All we needed this season was more height as our on-ballers were second to none. With the Under 18's often playing at other grounds the training duties were shared between six trainers.
Shane Kennedy continued with the Reserves and had a very evenly skilled group of players who nearly all would have played at least one game in the seniors. This was a little unsettling at the beginning of the season but more consistency towards the end allowed us to at least make the finals. An excess of players meant that once again it was difficult to decide who should warm the bench and who would run the drinks! Leigh Stanfield, James Ryan, and Ben McDonald from Hallam were a great asset to the side. We finished 4th behind Upwey on the ladder with 12 wins and six losses. It would have been a daunting task facing Upwey in the 1st Semi when in their second last game versus Yarra Glen (bottom side) the scoreline was 35.25 to 1point. In fact the result was not quite that disastrous but we lost 20.12.132 to 8.3.51. We had eight different goal kickers on the day with best players being Dean Tulk, James Ryan, John Wells, Jason Brockwell, David Murphy, and Jason Berry.
Dave Standeven (Dooby) coached the Unders in the 1st and 2nd Division combined competition. The boys had not lost a game by Round 8 and with the effort in the year prior, may have become a little complacent, losing six of our last ten encounters. Using the Final 8 format we were to finish in 6th position behind Emerald on the same points but much superior percentage. We played Olinda in the elimination final at Avonsleigh in heavy snow, sleet and horizontal rain. ("Stewies" prediction in the Footy Record suggested "The Saints should win in a close one" - a truer word was never said!!) In the final quarter an Olinda player had kicked just a minor score from a mark on the siren from about 35 metres out and a League Record was created when a draw was the result at the end of four quarters. Two five minute halves were then played and in a nail-biter South won by 5 points to advance to the 1st Semi where we went down to Upwey 8.6.54 to 1.1.7 who were far better on the day. Lee Morgan kicked our solitary goal and best players were Casey Myers, Warren O'Connor, Chris Beardshaw, Lee Morgan, Brock Lantsbery, and Ash Edwards. Brock Lantsbery figured prominently in the League Vote Count gathering 16 votes (equal 6th)
Several of our aged players and ex-players had been considering playing an occasional game fortnightly without having to train! And the Veterans competition seemed to come up at just the right time. The mail-outs commenced early in the year and by April we had scraped up a side. Scruff Baker was coaching and the interest increased during the season to the point of six or so on the bench. After eight matches we finished in second place behind Croydon North. In the Grand Final it was a low scoring affair as one could imagine and at orange time it was South leading 6.7 to Croydon Nth 4.4. South failed to score in the windy conditions of the last term but Croydon North could manage only 1 goal 5 behinds to finish two points in arrears to give us the inaugural Veterans Premiership. Andy Freeman tied for League Best and Fairest and the end of season trip away to Cobram Barooga was a torrid affair.
Award Winners 1997
Seniors Equal Best and Fairest Shane Brockwell and Paul Marshall
Runner Up David Carden
Most Determined Graham Fulton
Most Consistent Clint Lantsbery
Coach's Award Rohan Marshall
Reserves Best and Fairest Jason Berry
Runner Up Danny Malcholm
Most Determined John Wells
Most Consistent John Landon
Coach's Award Nick Allen
Best Finals Player John Wells
Best 1st Year Player James Ryan
Under 18's Best and Fairest Daniel Sharp
Runner Up Andrew Punton
Most Determined Doug McCallum
Most Consistent Chris Beardshaw
Coach's Award Josh Harris
Best Finals Player Brock Lantsbery
Veterans Best and Fairest Des Fitzsimmons
Runner Up Andrew Freeman
Best Finals Player Geoff Smith
Andrew Abson was honoured with Life Membership of the Club.
Ed. Note: The following article appeared in the YVMDFL Football Record of 23/8/97 and since South were in the Juniors at the beginning I thought it was worth recording.
"25 Years of Junior Football"
The concept for the many young players in the District was created by the initiative of the then VCFL Councillor, Mr Frank Elliott from Berwick.
In the early `70's the Yarra Valley Mountain District Football League had two senior grades and an under 16 grade. At about the same time competitive sport disappeared from primary schools.
Frank Elliott arranged for several of the Leagues within the zone to meet with representatives of the RSL organization and a series of lightning premierships were arranged for ANZAC day in April 1971.
Don Claringbould, the then Secretary of Belgrave Football Club, contacted the state schools in the Dandenongs to gain support for the venture which was held at Belgrave. Each team was allocated an area around the ground, some had tents for their players and the weather was favourable for a great day. The day was a resounding success and made people aware of the need for a Junior Football League.
In February/March of 1972, the senior clubs within the area supported the idea of forming a Junior competition and thus the Junior League was born.
Early helpers at the clubs were Neil Mitchell, George Gray and Dave McNamara (Monbulk), Phil Gramlick (Emerald), Jim Mackie and Laurie Griffiths (Upwey), Norm Smith and Norm Kelly (Gembrook), Brian Cordell and Neil Oram (South Belgrave), Leo Walsh, Bill Magill and Don Claringbould (Belgrave).
The first Officials of the League were Jim Mackie - President, Don Claringbould - Secretary, Leo Walsh - Treasurer. The competition consisted of teams from the founding clubs of Belgrave, Emerald, Monbulk, South Belgrave, Gembrook and Upwey followed later by Menzies Creek, Woori Yallock, Fairpark, Wesburn, Healesville, Olinda and Seville.
The commencing age groups were under 12's and under 15's from 1972 to 1976. Under 11 and under 15 in 1977 and 1978, then under 9,11,13 and 15 from 1979 to 1991. In 1992 the age groups were raised by a year to under 10,12,14 and 16 until now (1997)
The Presidents of the League have been Jim Mackie 1972, Brian Cordell 1973, Adrian Eryliss 1974, Phil Gramlick 1975/76, Don Claringbould 1977, Bob Mole 1978/84, John Dawson 1985/86, Sam Dicello 1987/92, David Ward 1993 and Don Mackieson 1994 to now (1997)
The Best Conducted Club Award, based on voting by field umpires on punctuality, attire of the players and officials and conduct of the club was introduced in 1974 and has helped the League maintain a standard of which to be proud.
In 1981 the Umpires formed their own Association in order to liaise more closely with the League Board of Management.
1983 saw Upwey achieve a first in the League with three of their four teams making it to the Grand Final.
Both Monbulk and Healesville Clubs shared the 1984 Under 11 Flag which was a first in the 12 years of League existence. The scores were locked together at the completion of four quarters, still locked together at two points apiece after an extra 10 minutes and it then came down to the first team that scored would take out the premiership. Both teams had opportunities to score, but neither defense was prepared to concede. After a further 25 minutes of play both teams were still tied at two points each when both coaches agreed to share the 1984 flag and the League called for play to cease.
The League has five Life Members:- Phil Gramlick President and Secretary between the years 1975-1986, Leo Walsh Treasurer 1972 to 1987, Sam Dicello President 1987-1992, Bob Matthews Secretary and Treasurer 1988 - 1994 and Norm Moxham Director of Umpiring 1972 to 1994.
A big thank you goes to Pat Caddaye and Don Claringbould who supplied the above information from their archives and recollections.
Ed Note: Our Members will be interested to know that by co-incidence on the following page to the above history (1997) South Belgrave Under 10's, Under 12's, and Under 14's were playing in the Grand Final!! One other name mentioned in the article also had a season with this Club in Jim Mackie who was more at home at Upwey.
1998 Tony (Scruff ) Baker was elected President and Ross Colby Vice President, Robert Cusworth-Warner Secretary with the Treasurer's position vacant for the time being and 7 general committee. This was one year that South had to ride out the storm. As mentioned last year the drainage of our ground did not commence during the summer after a particularly dry '97 winter but instead got under way in February this year and pace was extremely slow. We were not able to train on the ground at all and late completion meant no growing time for the newly laid drainage lines and turf had to be laid as a last resort. As expected this did not take so well either due to the cooler weather of May and the surface required continual maintenance by members when we eventually commenced training and playing. Early in the season many of our home games were swapped on agreement with the participating club until the second half of the season. And of course the club has been down this path previously - very little income and a distinct lack of interest by players. Several clubs expressed concern at the safety of the surface and threatened to boycott our ground. They had had one home game from us and they wanted another!! With the League stepping in it was only Emerald that succeeded with this manoeuvre and the game was transferred to Upwey. There was a fair bit riding on this game since the bombers would avoid relegation with a win, which the did easily. Certainly by the end of a normal wet winter our surface held up better than that at 6 other grounds but we never considered boycotting! The piles of sand at the entrance to the Reserve towards the end of the year seemed to indicate that top dressing and laser leveling is likely to take place to finish the project. The Visitors changerooms and scoreboard and ground lighting were mentioned as being put on the backburner for the time being. In order to raise enough under 18's we were made very aware of the need for much closer contact with the Junior Club.
In October 1997 a "Sportsman's Club" was initiated at the rooms on a Friday night for a quiet drink with members and friends, talk about pre-season, the ground, old times or the Vets trip away and was financially successful. There were also 29 members of a separate supporters club which also was a great initiative financially and helped the club pay its way.
Senior coach was Scott Hilton who came with a big playing reputation but unfortunately a little young for the position since the opposition supporters often got him in. After all he was good in all positions but could not be in all of them at the same time. Not forgetting of course that we were in 1st Division. At the end of a difficult year, above us, in second last position was Emerald who were promoted to 1st Division this year. Both clubs had two wins but the Bombers had another 10% better percentage to avoid relegation.
Brett Carey coached the reserves side which suffered once again with a lack of numbers and lack of commitment. Eighty players played in the side during the season which included Aaron Lillicrapp who had never played Aussie Rules before but was at least keen to learn. Many players would do well to take a leaf out of his book. We had three wins and didn't finish at the bottom - some consolation.
The unders were coached by David Pike who had contacts for two or three Belgrave players to add to our locals. We started off the season in fine form with numbers at training and a team full of enthusiastic players. Still with the 8 team finals format there was a chance of grabbing a spot but injury and lack of interest towards the end of the season was disappointing and we finished 9th with 8 wins and 10 losses. David would finish the year with the comment "it is a shame that the team spirit displayed off the ground did not transfer onto it."
Andy Freeman coached the Vets to back to back Premiers, Champions and no injuries! We had an excellent year with 8 wins and no losses in an eight team comp. Playing Monbulk in the Grand Final at Upwey, South won 7.12.54 to 3.8.26 with best players being Geoff Smith, Rik Crook, Andy Freeman, Glenn Stacey, Gary Valentine, and Darren Linkins - what a line up!! Rik was probably the difference between the two sides since he booted 4.
Award Winners 1998
Seniors Best and Fairest Paul Marshall
Runner Up Craig Kozina
3rd Scott Hilton
Reserves Best and Fairest Jamie Campbell
Runner Up John Bourke
Most Determined Aaron Lillicrapp
Most Consistent Bill Lillicrapp
Coaches Award Jason Gorringe
Under 18's Best and Fairest Ricky Mainwaring
Runner Up Andrew Punton
3rd Ryan Stevenson
Most Determined Steven Frost
Most Consistent Chris Quarrell
Coaches Award Luke O'Neill
Kel Veal Memorial Award Jarrod Johnstone
Veterans Best and Fairest Glenn Stacey
Runner Up Gary Valentine
Best Finals Player Geoff Smith
1999 Russell Jolley was once again elected as President and John Ryan Vice President, Secretary Sharyon Dumbleton, Treasurer Graham Bentley, general committee of 5, social committee of 12. We were relegated back to 2nd Division and we really struggled. We trialed a new committee structure that did not work completely this season. The major improvement for the season would be the commencement of Auskick at the South Belgrave Reserve on Saturday mornings. Surprisingly many parents would stay back with the little tackers for a quarter or two to watch the unders and there was certainly some value in this. 43 boys and girls started out with Tracey Verburgt and Gavin Connelly in charge.
Shane Brockwell was assisted by Dave Carden with the seniors and this was to be a year of rebuilding with our local youth. Rik Crook was Chairman of Selectors. With very few wins (in fact only 2) it was extremely difficult to keep morale high. We lacked the bigger, taller, stronger players of opposition clubs and by seasons end numbers were well down on the training track. However commitment on the field was second to none. The win against Yarra Glen by 13 goals was a highlight for the season. Paul Govaars coached the reserves to three wins for a very average season. The under 18's performed much better than the senior sides with David Pike coaching. It was a slow start and we struggled for players but eventually the numbers increased. We had plenty of talent but unfortunately not the 100% commitment to the team. We finished in 6th position on the ladder with 10 wins and 6 losses and finished the season in the elimination final against Warbie. Once again the Veterans had a great season, this time with eight teams in the competition. We won six and lost one to play undefeated South Croydon in the Grand Final. On the day South Croydon took off the silverware 9.5.59 to 7.6.48 with a huge crowd supporting them. At the long break we were only two points in arrears and down by 8 points at orange time however we could only manage 1.3 in the final term to South Croydon 2 straight. Rik booted another 4 for us while best players were Geoff Smith, Glen Stacey, Andy Freeman, Glenn Honan, Ian Syme, Simon Trickey, Rik Crook, Geoff Hudson and Glen Dannock.
Award Winners 1999
Seniors Best and Fairest Gary Valentine
Runner Up Paul Sperring
Most Determined Jamie Campbell
Most Consistent Michael Brotja
Coach's Award Brock Lantsbery
Reserves Best and Fairest Tim Godly
Runner Up Jason Berry
Most Determined Matthew Weeks
Most Consistent Lee Sawan
Coach's Award Clinton Hill
Best 1st Year Player Andrew Punton
Under 18's Best and Fairest Ricky Mainwaring
Runner Up Adam Durant
Most Determined Ian Brown
Most Consistent Andrew Sundblom
Coach's Award Jamie Davies
Best Finals Player Luke O'Neill
Veterans Best and Fairest Geoff Smith
Runner Up Mick Ferrif
Best Finals Player Glenn Stacey
Spez was one shining light claiming 2nd Division seniors 3rd highest goal kicker (63).
Best Clubperson was awarded to Gary Valentine
Life Memberships were awarded to Craig Davey and Keith Crook
2000 Russell Jolley is at the helm once again, Simon Trickey Vice President, Gareth Baxter Secretary, Chris Sundblom Treasurer and general committee of 6. Several new faces appeared on committee and the club needed to rebuild from the last two poor seasons particularly in the finance department. The end result was an increased turnover of $16,000 but only a net result of $1,500 to clear some debt. On the positive side 12 members nominated for social committee. Early in the year the Club noted with regret the passing of Bill Cormack aged 58. In his playing days Bill played at Upwey in a back pocket and did some umpiring after that. Being one of the foundation members of the Junior Club Bill was honoured with Life Membership. In all he gave 20 years of service to both the Junior and Senior Club particularly in the area of plumbing, gatekeeper, timekeeper, team manager, committee and any other odd jobs that might be required. His services were extremely appreciated during the social room building project in 1992-93. More recently he had been seen watching grandson, Daniel during his Auskick sessions. He'll certainly be missed around this place.
Gary Valentine was appointed senior coach with Mark Holden assisting, Jamie Campbell with several years of playing experience! as reserves coach, Mark Johnson under18's and Ian Syme the Veterans. The seniors were moving in the right direction with five wins/ 13 losses to finish 6th in an 8 team competition while the reserves sat in 5th position with 7 wins. On the other hand our under 18 side playing in a very poor five side competition (The League having reverted back to a separate 1st and 2nd Division competition - 1st Division had 9 teams) with a reasonable side finished in 3rd position winning 8, losing 10. Emerald at the top of the table had won 17 for the season. In the 1st Semi we disposed of Gembrook and faced Yarra Junction in the Preliminary Final. After the first term we enjoyed an 11 point lead and powered away in every quarter thereafter to finish 50 points up. Alex Bakens was our standout up forward as he had been all season. He kicked four of the eleven, made all the more easy for him by sensational passing by Paul Fuller from the midfield, two of the highlights of the game being accurate kicking and great marking. Scores 11.8.74 to Yarra Junction 3.6.24. However the Grand Final against a very confident Emerald was something else. Our undoing was a burst of five uncontested goals by the Bombers in the second quarter otherwise the game was very even. Alex was held to just one major with Matt Davey, Jeremy Sundblom and Iain Brown also scoring singles. Our best for the day were Jeremy, Matt, Ryan Burley, Billy Neasey, and Paul Fuller. Alex finished the home and away season with 64 goals, runner up to J. Mackay of Emerald on 65. The minimum age for Veterans this season was lifted to 35 years. We finished in 3rd place which unfortunately doesn't allow for a crack at the Grand Final - first South Croydon, and second Croydon North only get that chance.
Award Winners 2000
Seniors Best and Fairest Ricky Mainwaring
Runner Up
Reserves Best and Fairest Jamie Campbell
Runner Up
Under 18 Best and Fairest Paul Fuller
Runner Up
Veterans Best and Fairest Darren Linkins
Paul Fuller was awarded League Best and Fairest in his first year of under 18's.
Life Membership was awarded to Jamie Campbell.
2001 The Annual Report is headed "2001 International Year of the Volunteer." This title hasn't meant a great deal to South Belgrave since around 1997 as the committee is still stifled by lack of numbers. Where would the Club be without Russell Jolley heading the committee again, Simon Trickey Vice President, Gareth Baxter Secretary and Chris Sundblom Treasurer with a general committee of five - not too many changes from last season.
However there were some changes in the coaching department as Mark Johnson took on the seniors assisted by Steve Kent. Although we finished well out of the finals race with 7 wins, 10 losses and a draw, we had recruited our best full forward for some years. Robbie Westin finished the season with 95 goals, 56 ahead of his nearest rival and a particularly good effort considering our 6th on the ladder.
The reserves coached by Jamie Campbell were a little more competitive with 11 wins/7 losses and finishing the season in 4th spot. Ahead of us was Yarra Junction who could be considered a bit unlucky to be in third spot having two draws for the year. We advanced no further than this going down to Yarra Junction 16.14 to 11.9.
Premiership Coach Rik Crook took charge of a very good under 18 unit. The League saw the error in their ways and went to a 14 team unders comp which was at least competitive for the 2nd Division clubs. In the first game of the year the boys drew with Upwey 6.14 to 8.2. More accurate kicking may have got us over the line? They wouldn't like me saying this as next week they beat our Magpie neighbours 35.16 to 1.1. followed by another drubbing of Warby 32.21 to 1.1 a month later. In fact they only lost one game against Olinda. Needless to say our boys finished on top of the ladder on the same number of games as Upwey but with a far superior percentage. We both played out the second semi final which South won in convincing fashion. We managed to keep our noses just in front until
Wellington Roadbut on arrival, after several days of rainfall the trucks could not enter the area and the semi's were required to be off the road by 5.00pm. By this time the light was fading so the vehicles were directed to the gateway area of the Belgrave South Reserve, the trailers to be unloaded the following day. However on the Saturday night news of the trucks in the Reserve had spread like wildfire and there were heated objections by one Reserve Committee person, to unloading the materials before receiving any permit, even to the point of getting Council's Building Surveyor, Barry Robinson, out for a cursory inspection on a Saturday night.
Ed. Note: To this day I am at a loss to understand the reasons behind objections to such wonderful facilities for future generations of residents. The end result was that to defuse the situation, Council's Don Reiter drove Ross Colby around to inspect various sites on the Monday and the Lysterfield compound (at the tip site on
Wellington Road) was chosen to store all materials for the six buildings. The Club especially thanked
Del for foregoing his coaching fee in order to purchase these buildings.