Any St George AFC supporters with information or memorabilia relating to the club should contact the club’s historian Patrick J McCourt
M: 0418 273 594
Email: patrick -@- kirmcc.com.au
A Brief History of St George AFC
In 2008 St George AFC celebrated 80 years of success; and since foundation, has been recognised as one of the ‘Premier Clubs’ in the SFL. Founded in 1928, the Club is steeped in history in many areas of the game. From its humble beginnings, through depression of 1930’s and WWII; through other past theatres of war, economic and social experiences, St George has a proud history of achievements.
In 2009, St George reverted to it’s traditional Red & White colours, a decision reached by Club Executive following extensive consultation with many old players, businesses and supporters in St George area. Since taking this decision the club has steadily progressed, strengthening the committee structure, appointing a new first grade coach for the 2011 season, and developing local football talent. Players; Sponsors; Supporters are all working hard, planning to win another First Grade premiership in not too distant future; we last won First Grade in 1993, when we celebrated our 65th birthday. Courtesy of a $50,000 Community Development Grant refurbishment and extention of the Olds Park club rooms is currently in the planning phase with work to commence in the near future.
Achievements – have been many and varied as a Club and on a personal basis. From winning five First Grade; seven Reserve Grade and 17 Third Grade premierships, there have been many individual medal winners; leading goal kickers; other award winners, in all three grades. Many players have represented NSW. There have been disappointments of Grand Final losses in all grades, along with heart ache of not playing in a final series.
Many Players and Officials – have achieved Life Membership of St George AFC. In 2005 our “Hall of Fame” was established. At the end of 2008, we had indicted 12 colleagues into St George Hall of Fame. Two notable colleagues Bob McConnell and Syd Felstead [both HOF inductees], achieved Life Membership of NSW AFL, for their contribution towards development and expansion of Australian Rules throughout Sydney and NSW.
St George AFC is very proud of its junior competition – which it strongly promotes. Over the decades many junior players have become very successful, senior players. A number have gone onto enjoy successful AFL careers – Mark (The Fridge) Roberts, Nick (that goal) Davis, both achieving the ultimate of AFL premiership success; Dylan Addison is currently playing with Western Bulldogs.
Many former St George players are playing at highest levels with other ‘Leagues’ throughout Australia. Todd Featherstone [ex Penshurst juniors; St George] in 2007 won the Grogan Medal, playing with Labrador in QAFL. Former players are carving out successful coaching and business careers in locations around Australia
Former players have represented Australia at highest levels in sports – Cricket (Steve Rixon); Rugby Union (Laurie Monaghan); other players represent in other national sports.
St George Tradition – friendships and loyalty developed whilst playing with St George keeps the St George tradition burning with colleagues, long after retirement!
St George strives for ethics associated with playing good clean football; conduct on and off the playing field; team building and mateship. We also concentrate on preparing our players to be successful in their post football careers.
Patrick J McCourt
Life Member & Club Historian