Swans On Screen
HISTORY IN RED AND WHITE
1961 SEASON
Click on 1961 season to return
GRIFFITH CLUB NOTES by Neil Griggs
SWANS NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" April 9, 1961 - No 1.
As these are the first notes of the year may the Griffith Club extend to other SWDFL Clubs best wishes for a happy and successful season.
Best of luck also to Bert Schmidt with the publication of the Aussie Ruler. We know some of the problems associated with such a programme and the full co-operation of all clubs is needed to make it a success.
New coaches Len Sexton and Jim Eley have created a very good impression in early games and at training and the Club seems to have "cracked two Jackpots" this year.
Griffith fans are wondering if the Griffith v Grong Grong-Matong game is a key to the draw as in the past several seasons it has headed the list.
Incidentally, Griffith people are not too happy about the draw at all, with four clashes between Rugby and Rules and seven Sunday with neither team at home.
With the only absentees Don Bitcon and Don Keyter replaced by Len Sexton and Jim Eley, the Griffith team should be up to last years standard but with quite a few keen young players pressing their claims, none of the firsts can afford to relax, which is as it should be.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler"' April 16, 1961 - No 2.
Two wins first-up is a great morale booster. Sore feet and blisters were "trumps" amongst Griffith players after the hard going at Grong Grong, with coach Len Sexton winning the award for the most blisters.
The Club is very happy to get over the "Magpies" hurdle - it is the first time we have won at Grong Grong for years.
Bob Spears had the unenviable task of marking Peter Box, and in sharing the honours with Peter, gave notice that he will cause opposing centres lots of worry before the season ends.
Second XVIII rover, Alby Sutton, revealed such promising form last Sunday that he must come in for serious consideration for promotion.
Vic Hathaway had a "ripping" time at Grong Grong - a new pair of shorts and a new guernsey having to be obtained, but this didn't stop Vic from playing his usual 100-minute game.
Bill Tyndall, just back from his honeymoon, claims the last quarter was the longest he has experienced. However, he wasn't the only one from Griffith pleased to hear the final siren.
Junior, Malcolm Brauman was constantly under notice for good play in the seconds game, and this lad has the potential to really go places in the game.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" April 23, 1961 - No 3.
To beat Ganmain so easily, and by such a margin (seldom scored against the Maroons) has the Griffith players right on top of the world and chockful of confidence.
Assiduous attention to training and unqualified confidence in coach Len Sexton is paying good dividends.
Kevin Rowston came right back to top form and some of his marks had to be seen to be believed.
A noticeable improvement was evident in the exhibition of the Second XVIII, and their pace and cohesion was too much for "Dooley" Carroll's boys.
One of the best tussles of last Sunday's play was in the senior game between two of the younger players afield - Allan Smith (Griffith) and Eric McCaig (Ganmain). There was nothing between these two as they provided one of the most interesting features of the game.
Ganmain's new coach, Laurie Stephenson, was out of touch, perhaps naturally enough, but he revealed sufficient good football to indicate that when he settles down he will be a classy player.
It didn't take Bill Tyndall long to settle down after his honeymoon, and on Sunday he rated as one of Griffith's best.
Bill Biron was another to rank as one of the best afield, and is in great form. Being keener than ever at this early stage, being tipped to poll well in Gammage Medal voting.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" April 30, 1961 - No 4.
What a relief it was to get over the game at Coolamon still undefeated. Our players were not too happy in the mud and slush, but Coolamon seemed to relish the conditions, and played very well. They are rapidly improving and should soon have some points on the board.
The Ganmain scribe's comment about Len Sexton was not to well received by Griffith fans. [Their coach is a grand footballer and a good kick, but the show pony type, we think]. Anyway, Len certainly "showed" the Ganmain players and supporters how the game should be played - a fact that even "Boggy Bill" appreciated.
Our Seconds really turned it on at Coolamon, and there won't be many bigger tallies than their 30-14 (194).
John Bortolazzo was the main driving force, and Ian Buck was right on target with 12 goals. Jim Eley's smile was like a rising full moon.
Vic Hathaway was the best Griffith "mudlark" at Coolamon and rated as best afield.
Allan Smith celebrated his 19th birthday on Sunday with an outstanding exhibition on the half-back line.
The Griffith Players Committee has arranged a series of socials after each home game, and everyone is invited to join in the fun and games.
With the wind and rain, last Sunday wasn't a really good day to do a windscreen, but two Griffith "tourists", Joe Tyndall and Bill Biron, had that experience. Bill effected emergency repairs and wasn't too badly off, but Joe had that rain in the face and claimed he swallowed more water on the trip that he has for the past 10 years.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" May 7, 1961 - No 5.
Griffith and Turvey Park certainly gave the large crowd last Sunday full value for their three bobs worth, with a game that was hard throughout. Ardlethan next week and, with no Rugby opposition, another bumper crowd - we hope.
An elbow ran into Griffith rover, Bill Tyndall's eye on Sunday and caused a split eyebrow, but the injury didn't require any needlework at the hospital, and Bill will be fit next Sunday.
The Second XVIII had their first ever win over Turvey Park and are now top of the world. Veteran Jack Kloot, dropped from the Firsts, played a big part in the win with five goals.
Promising 15-year-old junior, Malcolm Brauman promoted to 20th with Jim Fielder reported unfit, had his first taste of senior football when Bill Tyndall went off with a few minutes to go. Malcolm ran on and immediately collected the ball for his first kick.
The hot day and the big crowd had those sterling ladies in the kiosk flat out all day, but they were well satisfied for the work when they had to display a "sold out" sign at 5 o'clock.
What a beauty Kevin Rowston would be if his kicking equalled his marking. Kevin took some fantastic marks on Sunday, but the ball seemed to shy away from the tall timbers whenever he kicked for goal.
Don Best was the rock on which many Turvey hopes perished last Sunday. He was rarely beaten to rate as Griffith's best (no pun intended) player of the day.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" May 14, 1961 - No 6.
Results last Sunday could not have gone better from our angle and the two-game lead will be handy as the season progresses.
The seconds continued on their winning way but were a little over confident perhaps and it took a blast from their coach Jim Eley at half time to get them at their top.
The "Pie Night" after training on Wednesday was a great success and most appetites were satisfied with 200 pies and 15 dozen "lolly water" being disposed of.
Kevin Savage turned in his best game of the season to rate as Griffith's best in the second 18 game.
Others to show out in this game were Fred Gambell, really keen after being dropped last week. Jack Kloot and Alby Sutton.
John Bortolazzo justified his retention by the selectors by turning in a much improved exhibition on the wing in the first 18 game.
There has been a lot written about late starts recently but in the last two rounds at Griffith the both teams been on the ground waiting for the umpire, who very seldom arrive before 2.15 p.m.
Something perhaps could be done by the executives to get the umpires to Griffith with a little more time at their disposal.
Les Collis, after a couple of "warm up" games with the seconds following injury, ably filled the injured Bill Tyndall's place as rover and as one of Griffith's best players, should retain his place and add further to the selectors' problems.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" May 21, 1961 - No 7.
It's congratulations to Ariah Park-Mirrool on a game well played to defeat us last Sunday. Their win was truly deserved, but we hope to get our revenge in the next round. Vic Hathaway turned in his usual classy display to rate as Griffith's best with one of the highlights of his play being much better disposal of the ball.
It was a pleasure to see two really good umpires on the one day at Mirrool in Jim Ryan (2nd XVIII) and Jack Walsh. It would be great if this standard was maintained each Sunday.
The thrilling finish at Mirrool had everyone aroused, but no one felt the strain more than our three injured players - Bob Spears, Bill Tyndall and Jim Fielder, who all reckon it's harder to watch than play in such a game.
Add Don Best and Bob Tyndall to the above three, and it will be appreciated that the Griffith performance, without these key five members, was a grand team effort - it was, in fact, one of their best games of the year.
Our Seconds with eight regulars missing, took a long time to settle down and looked like suffering their first defeat, but Jim Eley's inference of quitting at three-quarter time apparently go the players "Irish" up, and they swamped their opposition in the last term. Fred Gambell was our outstanding player in the tough Seconds game, and if he can maintain his form, must come into calculations for promotion.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" June 4, 1961 - No 8.
With some extra strenuous workouts at training, coach Len Sexton countered the effects of the holiday weekend, and players of both teams should be fit for the important games on Sunday. Players and members participated in the various sporting events at the Bonfire and Carnival conducted by the Griffith Police Boys' Club on "cracker" night. The relay team gained the only placing, but Len Sexton and Jim Eley made the final of the footballers sprint, whilst the tug-'o-war team put in a strong effort.
Bill Tyndall returns to the team this week and, having trained solidly, should be quickly in touch. During his enforced absence, the team missed his spirit roving. Local supporters are wondering just what has to be done to untangle the maze of "red tape" or "strings", or whatever it is, that is holding up the transfer, in employment, to Griffith of a leading SWDFL player, which was approved some six weeks ago.
The Club is proud of its goal and boundary umpires, and it's to there credit that Bob Ledwidge and George Coggan and Phil Collis were appointed last Sunday.
Len Sexton ordered a new pair of boots on Monday morning and hopes it to be right on target against Narrandera on Sunday.
Bob Spears has trained solidly since having to retire from the last comp game and, with the possible exception of Mick Newman, all players will be available for Sunday's vital game.
Notes from Whitton Whispers
The game at Griffith, Sunday week saw Whitton trailing badly in the first three quarters. Then, however, the team got a new lease of life in the final quarter, and the scoreboard showed Whitton four goals five behinds to Griffith four goals one behind. In this quarter, the improving "Red" Kelly more than held his own against Griffith's coach, Sexton. The Tigers have now proved their ability to play out the four quarters and a break-through for a win is not too far distant. Best players for Whitton were Kevin Rodgers, Johnny Tuckett and "Red" Kelly, with good support from Max Tuckett and Josh Edwards. It was good to see Trevor Hyde showing plenty of speed and ability again.
Teddy Reynolds, though on the receiving end of his share of knocks, managed to see the game out. In the seconds grade game, the Tigers played to the best of their ability against a far superior Griffith team. Allan O'Connell was by far the outstanding Whitton player until he was taken off at half time to play in the first-grade team. Another to show form was Dennis Jones.
In conclusion I would like to congratulate the Geelong side for giving the public a splendid display of Australian football at the Narrandera Sportsground last Sunday, and to congratulate Max Tuckett and Kevin Rodgers on their selections in the respective sides.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" June 11, 1961 - No 9.
Congratulations to Narrandera for a good double last Sunday. The First XVIII in particular were very impressive and played like a premiership team. They had a big following, too, and with great local interest the Club had a record gate - £178 - and despite opposition from a featured Rugby game. Bill Biron rucked well all day, and his loss early in the last quarter was a big blow.
Coach Len Sexton played his usual fast, elusive game and kicked well for his six goals, with two near misses (over the post, according to the goal ump.). Len now has the honour of being the leading goal kicker.
The Seconds game was a vicious affair that called for early decisive action by the umpire. This was not forthcoming and what could have been a good game was spoilt by too much playing the man. Only one player was reported, but perhaps the report card wasn't big enough to list everyone that should have been named.
Casualties on Sunday were Bill Tyndall, Bill Biron and Jim Fielder, with leg injuries, and Seconds' player Ernie Wade, broken finger.
Add these to the four Griffith players in the SWDFL team, and it will be seen the teams against Leeton on Sunday will contain a few new faces. The Club will stage its annual Ball on Friday, July 14, in Woodside Hall and, with the Farrer game on Sunday, the players should be able to enjoy themselves.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" June 18, 1961 - No 10.
Although defeated last weekend, we are not downhearted. Considering our depleted ranks, we feel the lads did everything expected of them, and we hope to return to the winning list this week. The loss of Kevin Rowston in the first quarter came as a great blow to the Griffith side, as he was one player who could have challenged Leeton's superiority. With Kevin, the result could have been different.
Easily the keenest player, and most sedulous trainer of the Club is 16-year-old Reg McCudden. In his first game last Sunday he gave notice of his intention to play senior football more often. Reg is a real trier, and rated as one of the best players in the Seconds.
Our fullback, Bob Tyndall, played another of his great games, allowing Neil Stockton only two goals. Bob ranks as one of our most consistent players. Jim Eley and Les Stockton had many lively tussles last Sunday. Jim, playing the stronger, took the honours. It was his grand play that inspired the Griffith ream in the ''spirited" final quarter.
Rather intrigued by Ted's (Ryder) scheme to improve the umpiring standard and save money next year, by sacking the Melbourne umps and using the officials from Wagga instead. He advocates a chosen few is ... two? Not quite fair to be Wagga boys, but I think Ted may be a lonely little "petunia" with this idea.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" June 25, 1961 - No 11.
It's nice to get back to the winning list again, with both teams giving good displays for their victory. Without Biron, Rowston, Bob Tyndall and Fielder, it was no mean feat to defeat Ganmain, especially with the game played at Ganmain, where we have not won since 1952.
It was pleasing to see Mick Newman with the guernsey on again. He had his first game for several weeks with the Seconds and went well enough to indicate that he will soon be back in his old position.
Malcolm Brauman and Don Pannan, two of the youngest Second XVIII players, were amongst the best Griffith players at Ganmain and are probably our most promising recruits. Frank Conlan wins the award as best player at Ganmain, At fullback, he was never defeated, and his virile clearance had the young Ganmain forwards unsettled.
Noticed three SWDFL selectors at Ganmain and, as Gerald Carroll "burned" all day, chances are the SWDFL team for the Farrer game will have a new rover. Our annual Ball will be in Woodside Hall this year, on July 14.
Only the Farrer game that weekend, so there will be no curfew on that Friday night.
After missing two games through injury, Don Best played a grand game in defence last Sunday. In the second term, he seemed to have the ball on a string, and it certainly was a bright return to the game for him.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" July 2, 1961 - No 12.
No kudos to Coolamon for their forfeit in the Seconds game last Sunday. The bus breakdown was no excuse for, after the bus arrived, they could only muster 12 players. Griffith lost valuable percentage points which could deprive them of one of the double chances' positions in the finals. Vic Hathaway was outstanding in the loose man game. He played on well to rate as our best player. Another Gammage Medal for Vic will be no surprise to Griffith fans. Challenging Vic for the top ranking against Coolamon was John Bortolazzo. Since coming up from the Seconds earlier in the season, Borto has shown good form and completely dominated the wing position last Sunday.
Umpire John Gambetta - a beauty! Particularly pleasing to see him very severe on one of the invidious aspects creeping into the game - unnecessary attention to the player after he disposed of the ball.
Unconcerned by his relegation to the Seconds, Doug Koehler was one of the first to arrive for the game that didn't eventuate. Eager to recover form, Doug put plenty into the practice game that was arranged, and should soon be back in the Firsts.
Guess who struck the jackpot and double last weekend? Club president, Dick Bitcon, and he was saving his luck up for the final jackpot.
Bill Tyndall and Kevin Rowston missed the Coolamon game to get treatment at Shepparton. Bill will be fit for next Sunday, but Kevin needs further treatment.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" July 9, 1961 - No 13.
Black, sticky mud and web-footed Bulldogs caused a resounding crash in our competition position last Sunday, and the players will soon need to get out of their slump if they have hope to make the finals. Turvey Park gave a fine exhibition in bad conditions and thoroughly deserved their big win, but what a home ground advantage they have at Gissing Oval.
Persil sales were heavy in Griffith on Monday, and a lot of hard work will be needed to prevent Griffith taking the field in the wrong colours - black and white instead of red and white.
Reports of bright sunshine most of the day in Griffith was poor consolation for the miserable day of the Wagga tourists.
Len Sexton played with a painful injury to his right foot last Sunday, which accounted for the free use of his left leg. His four goals saw him retain top place amongst the goal-kickers.
The only other bright spot of our visit to Wagga was the grand exhibition of the 2nd XVIII, to win a hard game. Unfortunately, however, the Firsts did not follow their example.
Many of Col Holt's knock-outs in the Second's game covered more distance than most kicks and obviated a lot of uncertain handling in getting the ball in scoring range.
Although Fred Gallagher kicked seven goals, Griffith full back, Bob Tyndall, was far from disgraced, as he made the Turvey skipper really earn every kick.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" July 23, 1961 - No 14.
Everyone at Griffith was highly delighted with the best and fairest award from the Farrer game. Frank Conlan is a stalwart footballer and always gives of his best, and he has won a Heinz "Sportsman of the Week" award this season also for his good play.
SWDFL first's team effort was most disappointing, but you can only play as well as your opposition allows you to, and the Farrer players certainly were hot last Sunday. Back to the competition this week, and we have a big hurdle in Peter Box, and his "Magpies".
Some straight talking by Len Sexton after last week's pie night, and a player's council of war this Friday, could see a big improvement on the team's recent displays.
Our annual Ball last Friday night was most successful and enjoyable, and all players present appreciated the night out.
Kevin Rowston returns for Sunday's game and his high marking and lively play should bring about a big improvement in the attack.
Our 2nd XVIII will need to on their toes on Sunday also, following G.G.-Matong's shock win over Narrandera in their last game. The players, however, are keen to redeem themselves for the poor effort, and there should be a few Magpie feathers around the oval after Sunday's game.
The Griffith players and Club join with all other SWDFL Clubs in extending sincere sympathy to the Ness and Walsh families on their recent sad bereavements.
Notes from Ardlethan Anecdotes
In one of the best third quarters of football produced by Ardlethan this year, when we were stung by the sight of our coach being carried off the field, we kicked seven goals to Griffith's two to virtually clinch the game. We had to withstand a determined last quarter bid by Griffith, but we did it. The Seconds also came out in glory.
On the debit side, we sustained some injuries to players. In the First Grade, Les Romari received a broken jaw (in two places), and Johnny Kelly a badly strained ankle. We will be without Les for the rest of the season, but John hopes to be fit very shortly and will only play on Sunday subject to a fitness test, but he is very doubtful. In the Seconds, Paul Dunn received two stitches in his eyelid after the game; Stan Horan received a caved in nose and Sid Coombes a badly bruised ankle.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" July 30, 1961 - No 15.
Enthusiasm again was at a high level on Sunday night after our two wins over Grong Grong-Matong, and the players enjoyed quite a few free middies. The game was a thriller, and the "Magpies" didn't lose many feathers by their defeat, in fact they might have been a little unlucky, if the countless sighs of relief at the siren can be taken as any criterion.
Len Sexton showed how goals should be scored, with a little wind assistance, with several long range goals - one from half-way, with the defence well up-field, was a gem of quick thinking and opportunism.
The anticipated keen struggle between our Second XVIII and the conquerors of Narrandera did not eventuate, as Griffith, with Fred Gambell, Jack Kloot, Alby Sutton and John Forbes playing brilliantly, were far too good for the United side.
Our ground, despite more than an inch of rain, probably provided the best surface of the day, and all players handled well, with some brilliant marking by Peter Box and John Anderson especially, and some neat handball and good kicking to entertain the spectators with a grand game of football.
Winger John Bortolazzo turned in a tigerish display. Always trying, he was seldom beaten for the ball and, in one particular dash, left Peter Box and another opponent spreadeagled on the turf when they tried to impede his progress.
It could be the Griffith players will be in the chips soon for, after their win on Sunday, two good supporters came good with three Opera House and four Special Lottery tickets.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: The Aussie Ruler" August 6, 1961 - No 16.
Another exciting game pleased our big band of supporters, and the teams are assured of a big following in the remaining games.
Centre half-back, John Anderson was under notice in the first half with some fantastic marking, but playing too much behind his man, fell off a little in the second half, although he still rated one of the best afield.
Best goal of the day was Jim Eley's in-swinger from the point post - an almost impossible angle.
The switch of Ray Davies and Doug Geddes paid big dividends, as each played splendidly in their new possie, to rate amongst the team's best.
Our Seconds turned in one of their best displays for their easy win, but in contrast to last week just couldn't kick goals, and the margin should have been doubled, as many of the 23 behinds were from easy range.
Kevin Luhrs, from Leeton, had his first game with us in the Second XVIII, and when he settles down promises to be a decided asset.
Bill Tyndall, Mick Newman and Frank Conlan, in Melbourne last week to receive attention from Bill Mitchell at South Melbourne, met Don Keyter, on the same errand and, of course, a few words were said!
SWANS CLUB NOTES: The Aussie Ruler August 13, 1961 - No 17.
As expected, Whitton made it hard for us on Sunday and we were mighty pleased to come through with four points and no serious injuries.
Winger John Bortolazzo again turned in a grand effort and was our best player on the day.
Len Sexton was closely shadowed all day and got a few chances, but as usual he was quick to seize any opportunity and his two good goals in the final quarter spurred the team on to a much needed win. Doug ("Coca") Koehler, although he only got two goals, revealed improved form with his marking and we expect his fast leads to keep Max Kruse busy next Sunday.
The Second XVIII, in contrast to the seniors, had an easy game, if fact, some of the players took it too easy, and their display was not really impressive. Royce White turned in his best game with the team, whilst others to show out were Jack Kloot, Col Holt, Fred Lodding and Bob Ramsay, who made most of their limited chances on the back line.
It doesn't pay to be late on the scene for Second XVIII games with our team. Ernie "Pouncer" Wade was a little tardy arriving at the dressing shed on Sunday and his place (20th) was eagerly taken by one of the two keen reserves standing by.
The players are looking forward to the trip away on holiday weekend in October. Canberra is to be the venue and 45 have signified their intention of going.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" August 20, 1961 - No 18.
Leeton was too good last Sunday. We had our chances but failed to hold their highflyers by five minutes. Some consolation was a good effort by the second XV111, who took the honours of a great win. Other "sweeteners" were the record gate (£201) and an £80 competition.
Len Sexton was the target all day for much illegal attention, and such tactics, if not checked, will have our game down to the level "of the greatest game of all" (Rugby League).
After a lapse in recent games, Gordon Browne returned to top form and was one of our best players against Leeton. Mick Newman and Jim Fielder are available again this week, and their return leaves Bill Tyndall the only absentee.
Fred Lodding came from Beelbangera this season and has shown such good form with the Seconds that promotion should come early next year. Jack Kloot playing his 20th year of first grade football, intends to retire at the end of the season. Although he has been in and out of the First XVIII this year, Jack has played more than 100 games in his career with the Griffith Club.
At this stage of the "Aussie Ruler's" first season, this Club would like to congratulate the publishers on a job well done, and we extend best wishes for the future.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" August 27, 1961 - No 19.
It has been a tough battle over the last five or six weeks to make the four, but we eventually got there.
The rain and Narrandera's spirited finish had us worried on Sunday, but the boys kicked on in the last ten minutes to gain a notable win.
Vic Hathaway seemed unaffected by the conditions, to be our best player and, like Ted, we expect him to take out a trophy or two this season.
The selectors were very pleased men at the success of Don Best in his new position of centre wing. Don unsettled Ted Kirsopp with close play, and on the day had the best of matters.
In a hard-fought, scramble game, the Seconds just failed in their game with the Imperials, but we still give them a good premiership chance.
Kevin Luhrs was the best of the Seconds players, rucking well all day. He should be a handy first grader next year.
Ken ("Ripper") Stevenson went well in his first game with the senior side at Narrandera and he, too, will be a handy man next season.
Bob Spears didn't have a fair test under the conditions in his trial at full forward, but his two goals were handy and timely.
No luck with the lottery tickets so far, but the players will enjoy the 18 (gallon keg) from the same source at the steak night on Tuesday.
It's congratulations from all members and players to coach Len Sexton on heading the SWDFL goal-kicking ladder, this being the first time ever by a Griffith player.
SWANS CLUB NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" September 3, 1961 - No 20.
There were many disappointed people at Whitton last Sunday, when the final siren ended our playing season for 1961.
Congratulations to Narrandera and Ardlethan on their splendid efforts, and good luck to them in their remaining games.
We had our chances of victory in both games, but on the day just didn't have what it takes. We confidently expect to be amongst the leaders again next year and, who knows, we might find someone who can kick goals by then.
Although disappointed by our total eclipse at Whitton, we have had a good year - both teams in the finals; the Gammage Medal and 2WG award, the leading goal-kicker and runner-up for the Lanham Medal gives us plenty to be pleased and proud about.
Vic Hathaway clearly showed the big crowd why he was the Gammage Medal winner, with a brilliant exhibition that rated him the best afield.
Close behind Vic was Bill Biron who, in the last few games, has played probably the best football of his career, and we expect big things next year from Bill and his "new look" style of play.
Our Seconds didn't come up to expectations. Perhaps they were a little too tense, as they were particularly keen to do well for their enthusiastic coach, Jim Eley. Perhaps one day Griffith will get over this first semi-final hurdle with the Second XVIII.