HALL OF FAME
Hall of Fame Inductees: 2024
JAMIE BLACK
BO DE LA CRUZ
Among many astute judges believe Bo De La Cruz is widely regarded as the best attacking player to grace the field. Bo’s exceptional talent was further acknowledged with her selection into the 2022 NSWTA Golden Jubilee Women’s Open Team and the Indigenous Team, she was also selected into the TFA Women’s Open Golden Jubilee team. Known for her explosive speed out of half and her pinpoint long passing that consistently hit the mark, Bo was nearly impossible to defend against, dominating the game at all levels— from her club Western Suburbs to NSW and also internationally. She possessed an uncanny ability to time her patented raids from half perfectly, always choosing the right moment to strike. While her attacking prowess often garnered the spotlight, her remarkable defensive skills, coupled with her game intelligence, ensured she was always in the right position at the right time. She was the 2008 Smith Medallist with 9 caps for NSW and an impressive 50 caps for Australia, Bo De La Cruz’s legacy is one of brilliance.
DENNIS DWYER
Dennis Dwyer had an illustrious career and was an early superstar of the game. He was a member of the iconic Cronulla seniors, who dominated their divisions for nearly two decades. Affectionately known as “DD,” Dennis was a tall, long-striding link renowned for his exceptional speed and agility, with his signature headband striking fear into the hearts of opposing teams. His versatility allowed him to outmanoeuvre defences, exploiting both outside and inside options depending on his game-day mood. Equally formidable in defence, DD was a tough and relentless competitor, consistently raising the performance levels of those around him. Beginning his career in the O/35s in 1982, he became a mainstay of NSW teams until 1994, proudly representing the state on 68 occasions. Dennis’s contributions to the sport were further recognised with his selection into the 2022 NSW Golden Jubilee Senior Men’s team, entrenching him as one of the greats of touch football in New South Wales.
JODY ENGLISH (nee COLLINS)
Jody English possessed a special talent and is recognized for her remarkable contributions to the sport from 1987 to 2006. With 87 caps for NSW and 44 national caps, Jody was a formidable force on the field, known for her perfectly balanced running and blistering pace that allowed her to effortlessly outpace her opponents. Her exceptional skills and pure passing further enhanced her capabilities, making her a standout player and a constant threat in any match she played. In 2022, Jody’s legacy was recognised with her selection as a member of the NSWTA Golden Jubilee Senior Women’s Team. Her impact on the game and her inspiring performances will forever be celebrated by all who had the privilege of witnessing her brilliance.
SHANE FREDERIKSEN
Shane Frederiksen is recognised for his exceptional contributions to the sport from 1993 to 2008. Representing NSW in the Men’s 20s, Men’s Open, and Men’s 35s, Shane amassed an impressive 40 caps for his state and 30 for Australia, showcasing his remarkable talent and dedication. He was also selected as a member of both the NSWTA Golden Jubilee Men’s Open and Indigenous teams as well as the TFA Men’s Open Golden Jubilee team. Renowned for his incredible speed and grace, he was a force both in attack and defence on the field, combining agility, exceptional hands, and precise passing skills to dominate those he played against. In one-on-one situations, he was impossible to defend, solidifying his reputation as one of the best the game has ever seen.
NEVILLE HOCKEY
Neville Hockey’s impact on touch refereeing is a testament to his skill, presence, and pioneering approach in an era dominated by single-referee officiating. Transitioning from a successful Rugby League refereeing career in the Illawarra, Neville joined the touch community, setting new standards. Known for his sharp game-reading abilities and masterful positioning, he effortlessly controlled the pace of play, earning respect and rapport from players with his confident yet approachable manner. He was recongised and rewarded by being named as one of the three Men’s Open referees for the NSWTA Golden Jubilee teams in 2022. As the concept of buddy refereeing began to emerge, Neville continued to set the standard for all referees to follow with his ability to introduce teamwork into the referee ranks. With achievements spanning affiliate to national championships, Neville’s tenure as the No. 1 male referee set a lasting benchmark for future referees. His legacy includes his National Referee Level 5 status, numerous finals, and his reputation as a role model—one whose style was emulated across ranks, inspiring all who followed in his footsteps.
KRISTY JUDD
Kristy Judd is recognised for her exceptional contributions to the sport over a remarkable career spanning from 1993 to 2006. Representing NSW in ten campaigns, including eight as part of the Women’s Open team, Kristy showcased her incredible talent and skill, earning 43 caps for NSW and an impressive 69 caps for Australia. She was selected for the both the NSWTA and Australian Women’s Open Golden Jubilee Team. Kristy is also a dual Smith Medallist. Kristy is celebrated as one of the greatest attacking geniuses the game has ever witnessed, possessing a freakish ability with the ball that kept defences constantly on edge. Her proficiency of both feet and outstanding defensive skills, paired with her agility to cover teammates, made her a formidable presence on the field. When playing alongside her Hall of Fame sister, Amanda, they formed a juggernaut that dominated the women’s game. Kristy’s legacy will forever inspire future generations of touch football athletes.
JIM MARINOS
We honour Jim Marinos extraordinary contributions to the sport from 1990 to 2001, representing the NSW Men’s Open team. Jim terrorised the opposition with his unparalleled speed, which he expertly utilised in both attack and defence. Renowned for his blistering acceleration on the late switch, he was a big match player whose anticipation and vision often went overlooked, culminating in unforgettable moments like his game-winning intercept in extra time against Queensland in the 1991 Men’s Open final of the nationals. With 44 caps for NSW and 11 for Australia, Jim’s legacy was further acknowledged when he was selected as a member of the NSWTA Men’s Open Golden Jubilee Team in 2022.
ANNETTE MOUNSEY
We honour Annette Mounsey, and her remarkable contributions as a pioneering figure in senior women’s touch football. First selected for the Women’s 27 team, Annette’s dedication to the sport saw her represent the state all the way through to the Women’s O/40s, showcasing her unwavering commitment over an outstanding career spanning from 1992 to 2024. Behind her renowned smile lay a fierce competitor, a player her teammates cherished having by their side and one that opponents dreaded facing. Blessed with exceptional speed, footwork, and deft ball skills, she was a true triple threat on the field, combining her athleticism with an astute ability to read the game, effectively shutting down any attacking plays directed at her. With an impressive 67 caps for NSW and 36 for Australia, Annette’s legacy is further solidified by her selection into the NSW Touch Association’s Golden Jubilee Women’s Seniors team.
PAUL SFEIR
Paul Sfeir has had extraordinary contributions as both a player and a coach. Known for his tough and uncompromising style, Paul embodied the philosophy that hard work yields results, representing NSW in the Opens Men, Mixed, and Men’s 30s divisions before transitioning into coaching. In this arena, he truly excelled, taking the reins in our Opens category for five consecutive State of Origin campaigns and delivering an unrivalled three consecutive Men’s Open titles for NSW. Paul’s ability to replicate the values and strategies he honed during his playing days proved to be a winning formula, achieving remarkable success at state, regional and club levels. With 30 caps for the state and 59 for Australia, Paul Sfeir’s legacy as a fierce competitor and a transformative coach continues to inspire and shape the future of touch football in New South Wales.
GARRY SIMMONS
Garry Simmons had had an outstanding career and unwavering dedication to the sport. Beginning his journey in the Mixed Open division, Garry swiftly transitioned to the senior ranks, becoming a stalwart across all divisions, including the O/60s. Known for his exceptional vision, ball skills, speed, and agility, he consistently dominated in every division he played. Garry’s impressive touch football IQ allowed him to excel, showcasing his ability to read the game and anticipate plays before they occurred. His relentless drive and passion for the sport were matched by his commitment to maintaining peak fitness throughout his career. Over an impressive span from 1987 to 2022, Garry represented NSW in 14 campaigns, earning 69 caps for the state and 27 for Australia, and was honoured with a selection into the NSWTA Golden Jubilee Senior Men’s team in 2022.
GARRY SONDA
A fiercer competitor on the field than Garry Sonda you will not meet. He embodied the essence of touch football, blending tough, aggressive play with the finesse of a skilled strategist. His exceptional football IQ allowed him to outsmart opponents both in attack and defence, showcasing a unique understanding of attacking lines that consistently gave his team the upper hand. Every time he donned the blue shirt, he personified the NSW culture of state, team, and self, representing our great state with honour and dedication. His commitment to physical fitness enabled him to compete at the highest levels well into his late 40s, and his remarkable career includes 35 caps for NSW and 74 for Australia, culminating in his selection to the NSW Golden Jubilee Men’s Open team. He was also selected into the TFA Golden Jubilee Men’s Open Team. Garry’s legacy is one of excellence, passion, and an unwavering love for the game, making him a truly deserving member of the Hall of Fame.
CHRISTINE STERLING
Christine Sterling posthumous elevation into the NSW Touch Association Hall of Fame, honours her exceptional contributions as an elite referee during an era when the sport was predominantly male. Christine’s remarkable natural talent and deep understanding of the game set her apart; she possessed an innate ability to read the play and adapt to the dynamics on the field seamlessly. Becoming a State Graded Referee No108 in 1987, Christine officiated at numerous prestigious events, including Regionals, City v Country, Country Championships, Vawdon Cup, State Cup, and Nationals until 1996, earning National Level 6 status and officiating in 13 international matches. In a male dominated cohort, Christine was the first woman to be appointed to a Men’s Open final. Her commitment to developing rapport with players, treating them with respect, and maintaining composure under pressure exemplified the highest standards of professionalism in officiating. In 2022 Christine was honoured with selection as a referee for NSW Touch Association Golden Jubilee Open Women’s. Her legacy as a trailblazer in the sport continues to inspire future generations of not just female, but all referees.
BOB WHITE
Bob White, is a true pioneer and the original super coach of our sport. Bob’s innovative and tactical coaching style laid the foundation for future generations, as he skilfully analysed opposition teams to create effective tactics and game plans. His commitment to excellence and his ability to foster a positive team culture were recognised with his selection as the NSW Golden Jubilee Senior Women’s coach. His style, approach and leadership made a significant impact on the development of the game. Over his nine years of coaching state teams, Bob accumulated an impressive 63 appearances for NSW and an additional 14 for Australia, solidifying his legacy as one of the sport’s most influential figures. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the NSW Touch Association, making him a deserving inductee into the Hall of Fame.
DEAN WILBOW
Dean Wilbow, affectionately known as “Pumper”, has made a remarkable contribution to the sport over a career that spanned from 1996 to 2022. Though diminutive in stature, Pumper was a giant on the field, recognised as an attacking weapon and a renowned game breaker. Blessed with exceptional vision and a touch football IQ that seemed to play the game one step ahead, he wove his magic over defences, conjuring up all manner of attacking prowess with his impressive speed and agility. Dean won the Boland Medal in 2003 and represented NSW in 11 campaigns across various divisions, from Mixed and Men’s Open to Men’s 45, earning 35 caps for NSW and 29 for Australia.
LOUISE WINCHESTER
Louise Winchester is a player whose brilliance and leadership have left an indelible mark on the sport. Those fortunate enough to witness Louise on the field know they have been in the presence of greatness; her passion for the two blues is unparalleled. As one of the greatest captains in touch football history, Louise led from the front with unwavering skill and innovation, often playing the game two or three sets ahead of her opponents due to her exceptional football IQ. Her attacking mindset was complemented by agility that set new standards, and her remarkable connection with her sister, Claire, led to miraculous tries against some of the world’s best defenders. Equally adept in defence, Louise frequently made game-changing stops that seemed impossible. Throughout her illustrious career, she represented NSW in eight State of Origin women’s open series and is a proud member of both the NSW and TFA Golden Jubilee Open Women’s teams. She has 24 caps for NSW and an impressive 65 appearances for Australia. Louise is a 4 time Smith Medalist. Simply put, Louise Winchester is one of the finest players our sport has ever seen, making her a truly deserving inductee into the Hall of Fame.
JOANNE WONG
Joanne Wong’s induction celebrates her outstanding contributions to the sport over three decades. Having been selected for the NSWTA Senior Women’s Golden Jubilee Team in 2022, Joanne boasts a stellar record on the playing field, representing the NSW Women’s Open from 1983 to 1993, before returning for NSW in the senior women’s in 1996, 2014, and 2016. With 82 caps for NSW and 24 national caps, she was a tough, uncompromising competitor who showcased exceptional skill, agility, and pace. Joanne had an extraordinary ability to inject herself into the game at any moment, utilising her unrivalled speed and footwork to slip through the smallest of gaps on the field. Her legacy as a fierce competitor and a remarkable athlete will forever be remembered and celebrated by all who witnessed her talent and determination.
Hall of Fame Inductees: 2015
ADAM FOLEY
Adam Foley has 70 international caps for Australia.
TONY TRAD
As a coach, Tony Trad is arguably one of the best the game has seen.
Tony does more than think creatively about the game, he trusts himself to run with his creative ideas and that is the true essence of innovation. It is his innovations that have changed the way the game is played and have many tried to emulate his style of play. Impressively he is a coach who is not afraid to tell other coaches what he is doing and discuss new innovations in the game. He has no fear in his coaching but rather sees it as a personal challenge to keep improving and making himself, his players, and the game better.
Tony has an impressive record; At 104 Australian caps, he is our most-capped international coach. He has been the NSW Head Coach for the Men’s program since 2012, and mentors coaches at all levels within his home Region, Sydney Mets. He has led Western Suburbs TA to 8 State Cup titles and 5 Vawdon Cups across Men’s and Mixed Open.
Hall of Fame Inductees: 2013
AMANDA JUDD
Amanda Judd, like her twin sister Kristy who still plays at the top level, changed the way the women’s game was played and Amanda refined it. The pure attacking genius who could step was equally devastating of either foot while dummying and not losing pace often had both the defense and spectators looking the wrong way. Arguably the best female hole runner to play the game she had the uncanny ability to place her body in positions thought to be impossible to get the ball down. Often leaving all of us watching her in amazement at what had just occurred. She like her sister was always at her best when the game was on the biggest stage and the mind meld that she and Kristy possessed when on the field left all in awe of her talent. Amanda has won 6 State Cups, 11 Vawdon Cups, and 5 NTLs. She also won back-to-back Smith Medals in 2005 and 2006 and is the sixth all-time vote-getter in the Smith Medal. She represented NSW from 2001 to 2008 in Opens. She has 62 international caps for Australia.
Hall of Fame Inductees: 2011
GAI TAYLOR
She was a dominating player out of the link position with her long and powerful stride that consistently took the best defenses at the highest level apart. Her defensive play was also exceptional with an uncanny ability to stop all manner of attacking raids through her reading of the game. She is also one of the nicest women you will meet belaying her fierce determination and will to win. Indeed her longevity and commitment cannot be questioned. In a true testament to her, many of the current players aspired to be just like her. She represented NSW from 1985 to 1991 in Opens and some further 8 years in senior SOO. She has 30 international caps for Australia.
DAVID CHEUNG
This player came onto the scene a little later in his life and during his career dominated all challenges amongst the senior ranks. He also dominated many players much younger than he as he played Men’s Open well into his senior years. His blistering pace, acceleration of the mark, and trademark swerve made many a defender look for cover. As a senior player, he was virtually an automatic selection as he formed a lethal combination with another of tonight’s inductees. Like previous inductees, he also personifies what is great about the sport, both on and off the field. While he had the brilliance to turn a game single-handedly he was always the consummate team man, ensuring that the goals of the team were always placed ahead of his own personal goals. Blessed with talent, he is a humble man who is a true gentleman of our game. He represented NSW in the senior ranks from 1993 to 2008 and has 56 international caps for Australia
TIM KITCHINGHAM
This player’s trademark is one often overlooked in skill set- his guile. While not blessed with the pure speed of some of his counterparts, he did possess a great touch brain and ability to read the game. When you matched this with his deft passing game he consistently threatened defensive lines with not only his own presence but with that of his support players who he guided around the park like a maestro and his orchestra. His ability to read play not only made him a danger in attack, but it made him one of the game’s safest defenders. Those who have been lucky enough to play alongside him will tell you he is their first pick every time. He too, like his partner in crime, Cheungy, is a humble man. He represented NSW in seniors from 1992 to 2008 and has 92 international caps for Australia making him third on the all-time list.
DARREN SHELLEY
Vision, speed, step, long ball, short ball, there weren’t too many weapons that our next inductee didn’t possess. Couple all this with his fierce determination and will to win and you have a very good mold for a touch player. He was able to ply his trade through the juniors then into both the Men’s and Mixed Open levels being the face of mixed during the 90s. Leadership was yet another ability that he handled with aplomb, captaining both State and Country with honours. What many who watched from afar would not have been able to judge about this unique player was his tactical mind and the way he could break down a game or opponent, must to the demise of many oppositions. Maybe his nickname of Dazzle said it all! He represented NSW in seniors from 1987 to 1999 and has 30 international caps for Australia
Hall of Fame Inductees: 2009
GISELLE MARTIN
After starting in the State Under 20’s she became an automatic selection in the NSW Women’s Open teams from 1992 to 1998, when her “actual” career cut short her Stella playing. She did tantalise us once more in her career when again donning the two blues in 2004 to cut a sway through the Queenslanders. On the field, she has the ability to constantly memorize and freeze defenses with her pace and step. A fierce competitor and a tremendous defender with incredible agility the envy of many male counterparts, she was the player you wanted with the ball when the touchdown was needed. With her exhilarating speed and exceptional touch brain, she had and still has the ability to win the game in a blink of an eye. She represented NSW from 1990 to 1998 and again in 2004 and has 34 international caps for Australia.
DEAN McMANUS
This player came onto the scene a little later in his life and during his career dominated all challenges amongst the senior ranks. He also debut for NSW in 1990 in the Men’s 30 division, where he made an immediate impact as a player who could read the game like a few before him. Throughout his career at the top level, he demonstrated that while possessing skills that allowed him to play the game two touches in front of his opponents he was also the consummate team man, ensuring that the goals of the team were always placed ahead of his own personal goals. With great acceleration and a deft passing game, he constantly threaten and defensive line. His ability to read play not only made him a danger in attack, but coupled with his acceleration it made him into one of the game’s safest defenders. Ask any who have been lucky enough to play also side him and they will tell you he is their first pick every time. Blessed with talent, he is also a humble man who is one of our game’s true gentlemen. He represented NSW from 1990 to 2004 and has 42 international caps for Australia
Hall of Fame Inductees: 2008
JUDY MALCOLM
This player first played for NSW Women’s Open in 1987 before moving into, dominating, and owning the Senior Women’s Division for the next 10 years. Described as a little dynamo on the field, this somewhat belied her ability to read the game, point her players in the right direction and orchestrate play like she was in front of a symphony. Blessed with a pure vision to put players through holes no one else could see and magic feet to step her way through the slightest of gaps she struck fear into any opposition that stood in front of her. She represented NSW from 1987 to 1997 and has 24 international caps for Australia
GARY MOURNEHIS
This gentleman was first graded as a State referee in 1992 and continued till his retirement in 2007, some 15 years at the top. He attained the highest level possible in refereeing, that being a level six and maintained the mantle of the leading NSW referee for 4 consecutive years during his career. He refereed Men’s Open finals at all major NSWTA events and National Leagues as well as being selected to attend and referee Men’s Open at 4 consecutive World Cups from 1995 to 2007. Possibly one of the most respected referees, not just by his peers, but indeed players and coaches alike, that NSWTA has ever produced and has been an inspiration to many referees still active today. Gary has 49 international caps for Australia
GABRIELLE ROSE
This lady captained her state and was destined for the highest honors from a very early age. She was an inspirational on-field leader and a natural leader off the field through her actions, words, and aura. This slated her by teammates and opposition alike as one of the most respected players, of her era. As a player she was renowned as a strong powerful runner, one who had exceptional ball skills and a great long passing game, she had the uncanny ability to sniff out an intercept and run the length of the field. She is a noted big game player who deserves her place among the game’s best. She represented NSW from 1990 to 2002 and has 42 international caps for Australia
STEVE SAUNDERS
Our 17th inductee could not be here with us this evening. Steve Saunders played for NSW from 1980- 1986. He was a player who had great vision and exceptional hands. He played the game with a natural flair for the extraordinary. He had tremendous agility combined with good speed which always made him dangerous.
Hall of Fame Inductees: 2007
KAREN SMITH
This player was inducted into the Touch Football Australia Hall of Fame in 1988. Arguably the best female to play the game. With uncanny vision, brilliant hands, and ball skills, this lady was also blessed with great speed of the mark. A natural leader, she had a football brain that allowed her to read the game in advance of others. She captained NSW and Australia on many occasions and her list of awards for Player’s Player, player of the Final, or player of the series is nearly endless. She represented NSW from 1980 to 1994 and has 27 international caps for Australia.
LISA NEAL
This player was in the Touch Football Australia Hall of Fame in 1990. Her Touch career started in 1977, as part of the first ladies’ competition in Port Hacking. She was one of the true geniuses to have played the game. Tough, uncompromising, and strong are all words that come to mind in describing this player. However deft, skillful, and deceptive would not be out of place. Her passing game, dummy, agility, and ability to read a game often saw this player turn and win games on her own. She represented NSW from 1980 to 1991 and has 14 international caps for Australia.
RAY “BULLET” LAWRENCE*
This gentleman was inducted into the Touch Football Australia Hall of Fame in 1990. He became involved in Touch Football at the age of 32, by playing a social game in Manly. He was then recruited into a local side, and a short time later represented The Manly District in the NSW Region Competition. In 1983 he was selected for NSW in the State Men’s Senior Team, and then represented the State of NSW for 14 years in a row. His speed and skill continued to impress selectors as he moved through the age categories and is still playing on the park today aged 61. He represented NSW from 1983 to 1997 and has 11 international caps for Australia.
RON WALL
This player was inducted into the Touch Football Australia Hall of Fame in 1993. Quick and with a big step he would terrorize his opposite number when running at them. Given half a gap he always managed to finish the movement over the scoreline. His ability to read the game and hit a hole was only matched by his tough big-game competitor’s spirit. He represented NSW from 1982 to 2004 and has 48 international caps for Australia.
MARK BOLAND
This player was inducted into the Touch Football Australia Hall of Fame in 2003. In many ways, he became the player who set the benchmark for the modern game. Always playing three touches ahead of anyone else on the field. His greatest assets are not just his pure passing, explosive pace, or devastating defense but indeed his vision. He dictated play the way he wanted it, regardless of the opposition. He is the consummate and proven match-winner. This player played in 17 straight State Cups with Parramatta which he won 12 times. The only player to have received a life membership of the NSWTA and to have his number retired by the NSWTA. He represented NSW from 1985 to 1999 only in Men’s Open and has 37 international caps for Australia.
MICK McCALL
This gentleman was inducted into the Touch Football Australia Hall of Fame in 2003. He became involved with Touch in the late 1970s and is an accomplished player from the men’s Open level right through to the senior ranks. His speed agility and ability to slide through gaps appearing not even to be there, were and are the hallmarks of his game. He has had success in the coaching ranks at club, Regional, State, and National level. He represented NSW from 1980 through to today and has 58 international caps for Australia.
KATRINA TOOHEY
This player was inducted into the Touch Football Australia Hall of Fame in 2003. She started playing Touch at the age of ten in a local Cronulla competition and is the youngest female to be picked to play for the national women’s open team at age 16. A constant performer, she was always going as hard at the end of the game as at the start. Her great skills, vision and inspirational leadership set her apart from the rest of the field. She was one of the most mentally toughest players to have ever played the game. She represented NSW from 1983 to 1996 and has 37 international caps for Australia.
DEAN RUSSELL
This player was inducted into the Touch Football Australia Hall of Fame in 2007. A mixture of determination, grit, and a touch of flamboyancy is the way many described this player. A great leader and fierce competitor who played as if every game was life and death for his team he was a stalwart of NSW’s most successful state team. His passing game was both precise and on occasions totally unpredictable. Both in attack and defense he always controlled the game and was known for his constant talk, and on occasions as a pest to the opposition. He represented NSW from 1986 to 2002 and is NSW’s most-capped international with 92 appearances for Australia.
STACEY GREGORY
This player was inducted into the Touch Football Australia Hall of Fame in 2007. Without peers as a female mixed player, defensively as strong as her male counterparts. In attack stronger than her male counterparts. Possessed the complete game as a female mixed player with superior ball skills, agility, vision, ability to read the game and a never say die determination. She represented NSW from 1986 through to 1995 and has 47 international caps for Australia.
STEPHEN PIKE
This referee was inducted into the Touch Football Australia Hall of Fame in 2007. This referee set the benchmark for others to achieve at the park, regional, state, national and international levels. Widely acknowledged as one of the best the games has produced, his reading of play and rapport with players made his control of the game effortless and respected. He represented NSW at national championships, NTL, and State of Origin and has officiated international fixtures across the world securing 52 International Caps.
OWEN LANE
He is the first of our inductees not yet in the Touch Football Australia Hall of Fame. An early pioneer of the game he did not have as many opportunities in the fledging sport as those who followed in his footsteps. He played in the very first NSW Men’s open team in 1973. He also played against the touring Great Britain rugby league lions in an exhibition match in 1976. The marquee player of the early years he had an electrifying pace, great ball and passing skills, and was the consummate leader. For the younger generation think of the prototype of a Mark Boland. He played the game ahead of the pack with his vision and ability to read the game. He could take the game in any direction he wanted and was a proven match-winner. He represented NSW from 1973 to 1984 and represented Australia against New Zealand in Melbourne in 1985.
PAULA VASSALLO
She first played for NSW Women’s Open at the age of 16. A tough competitor with amazing ball skills and deceptive pace. She always tested defenses with her passing game and probing attacks. Defensively many teams tried to attack her with little success due to her agility and doggedness of competitive spirit and ability to read the play. A player whom many males were jealous of with her all-around game well suited to the sport at the very top level. She represented NSW from 1983 through to 2004 and has 20 international caps for Australia.
ANDY YIANGOU
He is one of the game’s true gentlemen. He is one who is credited with taking the fitness of his players to new levels and rejuvenating a club through his on-field leadership that still endures today. Another with a tough mental approach to the game, with absolute determination and a never say die attitude. Those who play with him, want to win for him. He possesses great vision and passing skills, yet it is his defense that often gets overlooked. You would be hard-pressed to compile any statistics for defensive errors. Not flashy, yet a player many aspire to be like. He represented NSW from 1985 to 1997 and has 31 international caps for Australia.
