Almanac Footy History: Footscray’s running man – Harry Hickey

July 20, 2026 by Almanac Admin Leave a Comment

FOOTSCRAY’S RUNNING MAN

HARRY HICKEY

INTRODUCTION-ONE OF A GALAXY OF STARS

A most awkward moment in television ‘sporting history’ occurred several years ago when a certain television channel’s panel of football experts was discussing the irrefutable ability and virtues of the Bulldog’s modern-day super-star/ champion Marcus Bontempelli.

One commentator said assuredly that Marcus rated with Ted Whitten as the greatest Bulldog of all time; and another member ‘threw in’ the name ‘Doug Hawkins.’ What followed was embarrassing to watch as the panellists struggled to conjure up the names of other Footscray champions. Their awkward silence was disconcerting; and any Bulldog fans watching the program would have been dismayed at such collective unfamiliarity.

HARRY HICKEY, NORMAN WARE & OTHER BULLDOG CHAMPIONS

One could only guess that the TV channel would have received viewer feedback/comments reminding the panellists of a long list of Footscray stars such as **Norman Ware, Charlie Sutton, John Schultz, Allan Hopkins, Wally Donald, Arthur Olliver, Jack Collins, Gary Dempsey, Herb Henderson, John Jillard, Alby Morrison and, the focus of this article for ‘Footy Almanac’, Harry Hickey.

**Note: Please see (later in this article) the comment regarding Norman Ware’s tally of votes compared to Ted Whitten’s votes in the Brownlow Medal. Many modern football commentators will be astounded by the facts.

THE HICKEYS OF VFL/AFL FOOTBALL- CONFUSION & SNARES

Note: 1 Researching this story of the life and football career of Harry Hickey was not at all straight forward. The fact that ‘Harry’ is a traditional nickname for Henry is a little confusing. The official World War: 2 Service Records listed his name as ‘Henry Robert.’

Added to the above, there are at least 12 players named Hickey who have played VFL/AFL football which can create blunders when exploring Harry’s long career (1937-1948).

Note: 2 A search to discover if Harry Hickey’s relation, Bill, played at VFA or VFL level was also tricky There were at least three Bill Hickey’s …One at Melbourne (1911-12), another at Williamstown (1908) and a third Bill Hickey was listed at Carlton and later South Melbourne from 1902-1907. Perhaps, Bill Hickey simply played for South Footscray throughout his career?

HARRY HICKEY’S EARLY DAYS -FOOTSCRAY BORN & BRED

Henry Robert Hickey was born on July 19^th 1917. Martin and Ruby Hickey raised their four children (Alma, Henry-aka Harry, William and Stanley) in their home in the suburb of Seddon which is not too far from the Western Reserve (now known as the Whitten Oval) in Barkly Street, Footscray.

A street scene from earlier days in Seddon. Source: Real Estate website,

Note: Seddon, a working-class area, was formerly known as Belgravia; and in 1906 the suburb changed its name to Seddon in honour of the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Richard John Seddon (who had once lived in the Footscray area).

An aerial photograph of the Western Oval (aka Whitten Oval) in Barkly Street Footscray in 1929. Source: ‘Victorian Places’ website.

FOOTSCRAY FC BEFORE GAINING ENTRY INTO THE VFL IN 1925

When Harry Hickey was growing up, Footscray was affiliated with the VFA and did not join the VFL until 1925. The club, which was known as the Tricolours, was most successful having claimed nine VFA premierships. The club’s first flag was won in 1898; and its last premiership, in VFA ranks, was in 1924 (i.e. one year before Footscray, Hawthorn and North Melbourne gained entry in the VFL)

The Dame Nellie Melba Limbless Soldiers Appeal led to an exhibition match branded as the 1924 Championship of Victoria. The game was played on October 4^th at the MCG between Footscray (VFA premiers in 1924) and the premiers of the VFL that season, Essendon. Footscray 9.10 (64) shocked the football public by defeating Essendon 4.12 (36). Some 42,000 fans attended the match and the result probably had a large bearing regarding Footscray’s aim/ submission to join the VFL. The inserts above are of the captains on that day, Con McCarthy (Footscray) and Syd Barker of Essendon. Source: ‘The Australasian’ October 11th 1924. Page: 67.

Some of the highly regarded players of the Footscray team in the pre-VFL years (1886-1924) included: Roy Park, John Cornelius (aka Con) McCarthy, Johnny Craddock, Joe Marmo, Allan Hopkins, Norman Ford, Alex Eason, William Harris, Vernon Banbury, Vic Samson, Dave de Coite and Jim Cassidy.

One text stated that, in the period 1886-1924, of the 680 games Footscray played in the VFA, the club won 394 and lost 260.

Two of Footscray stars from the club’s VFA days. On the left is Vic Samson; and on the right Con McCarthy Source : Leski Auctions website.

PAPER FOOTBALLS & THE DREAMS OF BOYS

From what can be gathered regarding Harry’s formative years, he loved Australian Rules with an unyielding passion. In fact, he was so badly ‘hooked’ on the game of football that his mother said that he was ‘mad’ about the game…

“From the time that he was five his mother tells me (i.e. Hec de Lacy-a well-known and popular journalist with ‘The Sporting Globe’) he has been, ‘mad’ about football. He was always kicking, a ball of rolled-up rags or paper-often a tin-along the street…” Source: ‘The Sporting Globe’ June 15^th 1940. Page: 5

Some elderly readers of this website may identify with kicking ‘paper footballs’; and it underlines the hard times that working class families faced in the post-war years. Leather footballs (and other sporting goods) were not freely available in stores and were a most expensive outlay in those austere times.

HARRY HICKEY MEETS JIM THOMS

It is believed that Harry Hickey attended Yarraville West State School; and then crossed to Williamstown High School where he represented the school in football. The school team at that time was captained by Jim Thoms who later played 120 games for Footscray and was cleared to West Torrens (SANFL) in 1945. Jim and Harry would again play as teammates at Footscray in later years. Note:Jim’s brother George played one Test match for Australia against the West Indies at Sydney in 1952.

Jim Thoms played 120 games for Footscray from 1937-1946. During his VFL career, Jim kicked 101 goals including 50 in the 1947 season. Source: ‘The Age’ May 16^th 1947. Page: 8

It was during his teenage years that Harry and his footballing friends of Seddon were noticed by Joe Morrisey, a Footscray Football Club official…

“We used to play out on the street in Seddon with a paper football. Jim Morrisey used to come home that way from work. He said, ‘You blokes interested in forming a club an going into the Footscray District league. There were 10 or 12 of us and we were tickled pink” … Source: The words of Harry Hickey as published in the book ‘Sons of the ‘Scray’ by Mark Buttler and Steven Milne. Page:22.

As a consequence of Jim Morrisey’s ground work and insight, the South Footscray FC was established in 1935; and there is some evidence that Martin Hickey was President of the club for some years.

1937- A RAPID RISE FOR YOUNG HARRY HICKEY

In 1937 Harry started the season with South Footscray; and judging from the results (as shown below) he hit ‘early form’ and made an impression in the local competition. The results, as published in ‘The Age’ on April 26^th, reveal that in the match against Altona, Harry was named in the best players that day. Both Harry and Bill kicked a goal to aid their team’s victory.

It is only conjecture, but it is likely that the Footscray FC scouts/spotters were keeping tabs on Harry’s performances that season because, in late May, Harry was listed as an emergency for the Footscray Second XVIII.

In May 1937, Harry Hickey was named as emergency for Footscray Second XVIII. Another name of great interest in the above extract is ruckman Jack Zimmerman who was recruited to Footscray from the Seddon Rovers in 1937. Source: ‘The Sun’ May 28^th 1937 Page: 49

Harry must have trained well; and shown the required grit, aptitude and attitude because he was selected for his first game with Footscray Seconds against North Melbourne on May 22^nd. Harry grabbed his opportunity with both hands and gave a strong performance which did not go un-noticed….

“Hickey who played his first game with Footscray gives promise of making a first-class player…” Source: The sun May 24^th 1937. Page: 29.

Harry was named as the first rover for Footscray Seconds for the clash against Hawthorn. It was a quick-fire promotion; and indicated that he had made his mark with the selection committee.

However, the was more to the story of Harry’s amazing take-off at the Western Oval because by Round: 14 (i.e. July 24^th) Harry had won his way into the Senior XVIII team to play St Kilda. By any standard, it was a meteoric rise if football and signalled the start of dazzling VFL career.

HARRY HICKEY MAKES HIS VFL DEBUT

Harry was selected as the 19^th man for the Senior XVIII match against St Kilda. He was 20 years and 5 days of age; and he probably had to ‘pinch himself’ to reassure himself of the reality of the situation. It was a stunning journey from a ‘paper football’ in Seddon to donning the Tri Colours guernsey at the Junction Oval in front of some 12,000 fans.

Harry Hickey is named on the bench: Source: ‘The Argus’ July 23^rd 1937 Page: 17

Joe Kelly (ex-Carlton) who coached Footscray for part of the 1937 season

Ambrose Palmer was playing his 26^th game with Footscray when Harry Hickey made his VFL debut against St Kilda in Round: 14. (Source: ‘Blueseum’ website and the National Library of Australia-NLA Reference: 3789199)

Joe Kelly (ex-Carlton), who had taken over the coaching role at Footscray when Syd Coventry had resigned after Round: 4 that season, was in charge and the team included such famous names in VFL history as Norman Ware, Arthur Olliver, Cliff McCrae, George Bennett (ex-Hawthorn) and Leo Ryan. Another name that some readers may recognise was Ambrose Palmer.

Ambrose was better known as a professional prize-fighter and title holder in several weight divisions. Arnold first played for Footscray in 1933 and had proven to be a stout-hearted and spirited footballer.

Footscray started in bright fashion and kept St Kida goal-less in the first term but, due to the brilliant display by the Saints’ superstar Bill Mohr (five goals), St Kilda broke clear in the third quarter and went on to notch-up a solid victory by 19 points. The final scores were: St Kilda 17.10 (112) defeated Footscray 13.15 (93).

HARRY IS MENTIONED AMONG THE HEROES OF FOOTSCRAY

Harry Hickey took the field after half time to replace Alby Morrison (who had sustained a serious knee injury). Harry wasted no time in putting his name in the record book with a goal. Arthur Olliver, one of the true champions of the Tricolours, booted six goals and Alby Morrison kicked two goals before ‘going down’ with a torn knee ligament.

Harry is listed in the best players. Source: ‘Sporting Globe’ July 24^th 1937. Page 37

Alby Morrison who Harry replaced at half time in the game. Source: Trading cards data base.

As can be seen above, Harry had opened his VFL account in grand style. In fifty minutes or so, he kicked a goal and had been listed in the team’s best players among some real heroes of the Western suburbs. What a day it must have been in young Harry’s life!

AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY IN VFL FOOTBALL HISTORY

Harry Hickey was selected for the Round: 15 match against Collingwood at the Western Oval. The clash was a most historic occasion because, on that day, the legendary Gordon Coventry became the first VFL footballer to reach the milestone of 300 games.

Harry Hickey who was playing his second game, was only three years of age when Gordon made his VFL debut and began a career that saw him kick almost 1300 goals. Gordon kicked 100 goals in a season on four occasions.

Gordon Coventry is seen above receiving congratulations for his record-breaking feat (300 VFL games) from Collingwood’s stalwart and President, Harry Curtis. Gordon’s team-mates Harry Collier and Alby Pannam are also shown in the photograph. Source: ‘The Sun’ August 2 1937. Page: 29

Collingwood eclipsed Footscray that day and while the major focus was on Gordon Coventry, Des Fothergill was the star with five goals. Ron Todd chipped in with three goals for the Magpies.

Footscray best players were: Ambrose Palmer, George Bennett, Leo Ryan, Tommy Smith ( ex-Essendon ), Bernie O’Brien (3 goals) and Arthur Olliver who kicked three goals. Harry Hickey’s kicking was well astray and he booted three behinds( 0.3) and, unfortunately, suffered a knee injury.

HARRY HICKEY WINS A TROPHY

Harry missed the next game against North Melbourne; and it appears that he played the year out in the Second XVIIII team. Footscray Seconds missed the Final Four in 1937. Harry’s season ended on a high note when it was announced that he had won the Footscray Seconds’ Best & Fairest trophy. Harry also finished a most worthy second in the voting for Gardiner Medal (which was presented to the Best & Fairest in the VFL Seconds/ Reserves competition).

Alec Peak of St Kilda won the award with 14 votes while Harry and Albert (aka Mick) Price of Carlton tied with 12 votes apiece. Harry had achieved quite a deal in his first year of AFL football; and it again underlined his skill and potential to go to the next level in Victorian football.

Source: ‘The Sun’ …October 2nd 1937. Page: 25

Source: September 1^st 1937 Page: 28

1938: HISTORY IS CREATED- FOOTSCRAY PLAY IN A FINAL

Joe Kelly was again at the helm in 1938; and, although it is hard to find out a lot about his coaching methods and match day srategies, he was most successful in lifting Footscray from 11^th on the VFL ladder in 1937 to securing a berth in the finals in 1938. It was a ‘heavy’ lift indeed and Joe probably deserves greater praise for his achievement because, as the archives show , he was the most successful coach at FFC since 1925.

Footscray won thirteen of its eighteen games that year and finished third on the VFL Ladder with a percentage of 124.3%. The other finalists were Geelong, Collingwood and Carlton.

“In 1938, coach Joe Kelly’s blooding of many District League players paid dividends when Footscray secured a place in the VFL finals for the first time. Meeting Collingwood in the first semi-final, Footscray fielded a mosquito fleet of new stars, including captain Roy Evans, Harry Hickey, Joe Ryan, Jim Miller and Jim Thoms, who combined with big men Norm Ware, Alby Morrison and Arthur Olliver.” Source: Western Bulldogs website.

Source: ‘The Herald’ September 2^nd 1938 Page: 19

Footscray supporters must have been both delighted and excited to see their team run out on to the MCG in front of a massive crowd of 67, 566 fans. The club’s trophy cupboard had collected a lot of dust since 1925, but Joe Kelly , Roy Evans, Cliff McCrae Norm Ware, Arthur Olliver, Alby Morrison, George Bennett had led their club with distinction throughtout 1938; and together with some emerging younsters such as Harry Hickey, Jim Thoms, and Jim Miller the Tricolours had ‘broken through’ to share a piece of ‘September action.’

Collingwood held ‘most of the cards’ that day; and with Des Fothergill, Alby Pannam and Ron Todd booting 15 goals between them, the Magpies won by 41 points. Readers will notice ( below) that Collingwood’s near-perfect conversion in the first half laid the basis for victory.

Accuracy in front of goal is so important in finals; and the Magpies sharpshooters did enormous damge in the first half. On the other side of the coin , Footscray’s wayward kicking in second quarter was a contributing factor as to why the club trailed at half time.

The final scores were:

Collingwood: 6. 1 9.1 16.5 18.9 ( 117)

Footscray: 3.3 6.11 9.14 10.16 (76)

Footscray’s best players were listed as: Spargo, Greenham, MacCrae (5 goals), Miller, Standfield, Ware, Hickey and Evans. In summary, Collingwood had prevailed and went onto meet Carlton in the Grand Final on September 24^th. The Blues took the honours that day to win their sixth VFL flag.

A scene from the 1938 First Semi-Final :Alby Morrison ( Footscray),Don Balfour & Alan Ryan ( Collingwood) feature in a making duel while Jack Coolahan ( Footscray ) scouts the pack Source: ‘The Argus’ September 5^th1938. Page: 14

HARRY HICKEY POLLS WELL IN THE BROWNLOW MEDAL

Harry Hickey was Footscray’s first rover in that historic final; and, according to Ivor Warne-Smith of the Argus, Harry’s kicking was detrimental to his strong performance around the packs…Ivor’s ‘backhand compliment’ must have stung young Harry…

“ Hickey , only for his poor kicking , might easily have been the best player on the ground”

However, despite the sharp criticism Harry had a magnificent season in 1938. He had played 18 games , kicked 26 goals and polled 11 votes in the Brownlow Medal . Essendon’s Dick Reynolds had taken out the prestigious award to win from Hawthorn’s mercurial midfielder Stan Spinks ( 17 votes) .

Alby Morrison who polled 15 votes and Norm Ware ( 13 votes ) were in top bracket of vote winners that season. Norm Ware also shared the a leading media award ‘The Argus Cup’ (i.e. media award ) with Marcus Boyall of Collingwood.

Source: ‘The Argus’ September 1^st 1938. Page: 20

It must be remembered that Harry Hickey had played just 20 career games and was just 21 years of age. In modern parlance, he would be described as a ‘young gun’; and, as the next part of this story hopes to show, that 1938 would not be the last season that Harry caught the umpire’s eye in regard to his fair-minded conduct and exciting running style of football.

Footscray’s exciting champion , Norman Ware won his third club Best & Fairest award ( he would win five in all ) ; and Charlie Luke won the goal kicking trophy with 44 goals. Charlie Luke is another forgotten character in the the story of VFL history.

Charlie Luke arrived at the Western Oval from Phillip Island in 1937; and was 26 years of age when he made his debut against Hawthorn in Round :10 that season. Charlie only played18 games before crossing to Yarraville (VFA) and then accepting a coaching position at Morwell ( i.e. the Central Gippsland FL) where Charlie guided Morwell to the 1940 Grand Final against Leongatha.

Note: Ron Todd of Collingwood kicked 120 goals to win the VFL award in 1938.

THE BULLDOG BREED

According to several sources, the Footscray Football Club became officially known as the Bulldogs in 1938. However, the cutting (below) from ‘The Sporting Globe’ ( June 17^th 1936) shows that the nickname ‘Bulldogs’ ; was being used in much earlier match reports. It is difficult to deternmine when the moniker ‘Tricolours’ was finally and oficially ‘put to rest.’

The year of production and the source of the early FFC supporters’ badge is unknown.

HARRY HICKEY BECOMES A HOUSEHOLD NAME

One of the most memeorable quotes attributed to Benjamin Disraeli (when elected as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom) was…

“ I have climbed to the top the greasy pole…”1874.

Perhaps in 1939 , Footscray’s coach Joe Kelly could have said much the same. After having lifted his team to the finals in 1938, Footscray slid back to the eleventh rung on the ladder by the end of the 1938 season .

In a dramatic reversal of form and fortunes , which is not easy to ananalyze or comprehand, Footscray won only four games and finished with a percentage 82.6%. South Melbourne took the ‘wooden spoon’ with just three victories.

Despite the team’s slump, Harry Hickey’s football went from strength to strength . In 1939 he played 18 games, kicked 25 goals , won Footscray’s Best and Fairest award and finished second in the Brownlow Medfal. In a splendid season , Harry polled 20 votes to finish three votes behind Marcus Whelan of Collingwood (23 votes) . Other players to poll strongly were: Dick Reynolds (19 votes) , Jack Dyer ( 17 votes) and Wilfred Smallhorn of Fitzroy who gathered 14 umpire’s votes.

Once again, Harry Hickey found himself in distinguished company ( i.e Reynolds, Dyer and Smallhorn ) but Harry attributed his success to Joe Kelly. It says a lot about Harry’s personality and self-effacing ways…

“ He ( i.e.Joe ) was the best coach I had….He could’ve coached Footscray to a premiership if he’d been allowed to stay longer.” Source: ‘Sons of the ‘Scray’ Page:22.

Source: ‘The Age’ September 7^th 1939 Page: 4

Collingwood’s dynamic Marcus Boyle. Source: ‘The Argus’ September 7^th 1939. Page: 18.

SEPTEMBER 2^ND 1939 – WAR CLOUDS GATHER ACROSS EUROPE

Bad news followed good on September 3^rd 1939. On that weekend Footscray, lead by Charlie Page’s (ex Spotswood United) seven goal haul , defeated Hawthorn by 40 points. It was a bright note on which to finish a most disappointing season for the Bulldogs ( which finished eleventh on the VFL ladder with only four wins and a percentage of 86.2%).

The following day, Footscray fans’ jubilation turned to dismay with the dreadful news that the UK Prime Minister, Neville Chamberlain, had announced that England was at war with Germany.

1939-The worst posible news. England declared war on Germany on September 3^rd and, as a consequence, Australia was again involved in another European conflict which would bring about the deaths of untold millions ( some say 60 million people). Source: ‘The War in Picures’ published by ‘The Sun’ Page:19

HARRY HICKEY IS HUNTED BY NEW TOWN FC

Source: ‘Burnie Advocate’ December 11^th 1939 Page : 4

By the end of the 1939 , Harry Hickey had become a name on the lips of many football fans; and it appears, from reading the newspaper reports of that time, that his reputation as a midfielder had spread far and wide.

In December 1939, Harry was approached by New Town FC ( i.e. Tasmania) to coach the club in 1940. What a compliment which again further demonstrates Harry’s rapid rise in football. John Devaney ( Australian Football historian) wrote…

“After being moved into the centre early in the 1939 season, however, he really came into his own, and it is doubtful if there was a better centreman anywhere in Australia than Footscray’s Harry Hickey.” Australian Football website.

HARRY HICKEY WAS WELL AHEAD OF HIS TIME AND ‘THE CURVE’

If we accept Ron Barassi’s belief that Len Smith , who coached Fitzroy, in the 19450’s was the ‘Father of the modern game’ then it may be fair to suggest that Harry Hickey was well ahead of his time in VFL football…

“ Coach Ron Barassi described Smith as the “father of modern football”, noting that he was the first coach in Victoria to encourage and popularise the attacking use of handball in an era when stop–start play and long kicking were more common.” Source: Wikipedia but the original source of Ron’s comment is not known.

In an interview some years after his retirement (i.e. as a player), Harry discussed his innovative approach playing pivot/centremen in his heyday with Footscray. While the conventional style for centremen in those days was to ‘stay at home’ (i.e in the centre ) to direct traffic and control the action, Harry Hickey ‘broke the mould’ and his unique roaming/ running style was instrumental in changing the way in which football can be played.

Harry’s brand of football ( i.e. as a midfielder) was to create to opportunities and control possesions by running hard and deep into the forward line and by pushing back into defence. It sounds simple enough but it is exhausting and calls upon an individual’s reserves of energy to play out a full game.

“ Back in Hickey’s day in the late 1930’s and ‘40’s , players rarely ventured far from the positions they’d been designated….not Harry …I used to roam a lot… roam…no one told me to stop so I kept doing it” ‘Sons of the ‘Scray’ Page:22.

It is very hard to discover if Harry Hickey was the original ‘running man’ but Australian Rules is a vastly diferent game since the 1940’s; and all players are now encouraged to break lines , create overlap and handball (laterally, backwards and forwards) to create space and retain possession.

Harry Hickey was given licence ( by Joe Kelly) to ‘wander far and wide. ’ Harry would have enjoyed modern-day football because he seemed to be extremely fit and like Phar Lap he had a ‘big heart’ and powerful legs.

HARRY IS SELECTED FOR FOR VICTORIA

Harry Hickey -The Pride of Footscray- ‘The Sporting Globe’ June 1940. Page: 5

In 1940, Harry continued to ‘dominate procedures’ and collect umpires votes for his outsatnding performances. That season he finished fifth ( 15 votes) and in 1941 he polled 13 votes. During his first five season at Footscray (i.e. 1939-41) Harry amassed a total of 59 votes in the Brownlow Medal. It is little wonder that he was selected to reperesent Victoria.

As shown below , Arthur Olliver and Harry Hickey were selected in the Victorian team to meet NSW in Sydney in May 1941. Jack Regan of Collingwood was named captain and Jim Francis ( Carlton ) was the vice-captain. Other champions of that era who were included in the squad were: Jack Mueller ( Melbourne ), Herb Matthews ( South Melbourne) and Hawthorn’s tirelss ruckman Bert Mills ( whose VFL career extended from 1930-1942).

Source of photograph: ‘Digging Up History’ website

1941 Victorian team squad to meet NSW in Sydney. ‘The Sun’ May 10^th 1941 Page: 33

Only a small crowd ( approx. 5000) rolled up to watch the action; and the game seems to have been a one-sided affair. Victoria was rarely troubled by the NSW combination and won by in fine style by 63 points. The final scores were Victoria 15.15 (105) defeated NSW 5.12( 42)

Goalkickers for Victoria : Mueller 4 Walker 3 Kyne 2 Hickey 2 Edwards Killigrew Calverly and Jack Grant ( of Geelong who appeared to have have been a late inclusion into the Victorian line-up).
Victoria’s best players were listed as: Calverly, K. Walker Torney Mills Mueller Grant Adamason and Regan

Understandably, ANFC interstate football matches were restricted during World War : 2 but it is known that Harry and Arthur Olliver were part of the Victorian squad that meet NSW in June 1948.

Phonse Kyne and Arthur Olliver were the team leaders; and, on that occasion, Victoria won by 51 points with the lively Eddie Hart ( Fitzroy) ‘on target’ with 5 goals. Harry Hickey was not mentioned in the review of that game.

INACCURACY PROVES COSTLY IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE

As previously mentioned in various articles for ‘Footy Almanac’ , World War :2 impacted heavily upon every strata of Australian society; and rightly , football and other sports took a ‘back seat’ to the violent conflagration sweeping through the European and the Pacific Ocean theatres of war.

All sports and pastimes were thrown into question; and the ensuing debates, regarding duty to country in war time, were divisive and often acrimonious . However, despite the reduced crowds, shallow player lists, poor finances and waning public enthustiam, the VFL pressed on with a truncated fixture and hoping it was on the right side of the contentious moral issue.

The Yarraville Oval: During 1942, the MCG, Junction Oval, Western Oval and the Lake Oval were requisitioned and used for military camps /wartime operations. Footscray played its home games at Yarraville Oval, Melbourne played at Punt Road, St Kilda (Toorak Park) and South Melbourne’s home games were at Princes Park in Carlton. The war effort demanded significant changes across all national sporting organizations. Sources: Maribyrnong Library Service & Footy Almanac.

One of the consequences of the war effort was that Footscray played its games at the Yarraville Oval in 1942. Other clubs such as Melbourne, St Kilda and South Melbourne were also compelled to find relocate and alternative venues to aid the war effort.

Following Joe Kelly’s departure to coach South Melbourne, Footscray was coached by Norm Ware in 1941-42. Joe had coached Footscray in 68 games for 29 victories and a win/ loss ratio of 42.65% and, of course, not forgetting taking the Tricolours to their first final since entering the VFL in 1925.

Under Norman Ware’s leadership, Footscray was competitive and collected ten wins in 1941; and also 10 wins in the truncated season of 1942. In a tense run to the finals, Footscray held on and scrapped into the Final Four by 3% ( ahead of Percy Bentley’s Carlton team ).

The Final Four comprised Essendon, Richmond , South Melbourne and Footscray. Footscray met South Melbourne in the First Semi-final . Note: With the MCG being used as a military base , the 1942 finals were played at Princes Park.

As can be seen from the quarter by quarter scores, Footscray lead at the ‘big break’ but inaccuracy proved costly as South booted 10 goals to Footscray’s four after half time. Footscray’s 22 behinds was nothing short of calamitous .

Norm Ware was the ‘chief culprit’ and it is reported that he kicked 3 goals 14 behinds that day. Once again the axiom : ‘ bad kicking is bad football’ had been borne out and Norm must have had many sleepless nights recalling his dreadful conversion at Princes Park.

Action from the First Semi-final at Princes Park . South Melbourne’s full back Jim Cleary spoils Footscray’s ruckman George Dougherty in an aerial contest. Source: ‘The Sporting Globe’ August 29^th 1942. Page: 3

The headlines told the sad story that Footscray’s errors had been costly. Sourde: ‘The Sporting Globe’

The final scores were:

South Melbourne 4 3.5 9.9 13.13 (91)
Footscray: 4 3.14 5.18 7.22 (64)

According to respected VFL historian, Graeme Atkinson , Footscray’s better players were: Ware Ellis Palmer Thoms Olliver Morrison and Sampson.

Essendon under the leadership Dick Reynolds won the 1942 flag by defeating Richmond by 53 points.

Harry Hickey played ten games in 1942 with the highlight being his ‘bag of six’ goals in Round: 14 against Hawthorn at Yarraville. At the end of the season , Harry had played 84 games and was at the top of his game and full of ‘competitve spirit.’

Source: ‘Weekly Times’ August 12^th 1942 . Page: 25

Note : Harry Hickey married Enid Stanley (of Yarraville) at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Footscray on 28^th March 1942.

AFTER A BRAVE BOUT AS COACH, NORM CONCEDES

Following that disappointing defeat, Norm Ware stepped down from the coaching role. It was difficult to find the exact reason for his decision because his record, as a coach ( i.e. 20 wins in 32 games (win / loss ration of 62.5%), was impressive and not to be scoffed at.

Norm Ware was 31 years of age; and had played 180 games at that stage of his VFL career so perhaps military service and /or the dual responsibity of playing and coaching were simply too onerous.

Sometimes, the price of devotion is exhaustion; and Norm had given ‘his all’ in lifting Footscray to greater heights since his VFL debut in 1932.

It is so disappointing that Norm Ware is another forgotten footballer in our wonderful national game. Norm was a genuine super star of his generation.

Although, he was selected in Footscray’s ‘Team of the Century’, very few modern comentators appear to know that Norm amassed 130 Brownlow Medal votes during his career. Ted Whitten, who is mentioned in the opening stanza of this story, collected a total of 112 votes.

HARRY HICKEY’S WAR SERVICE & JACK ZIMMERMAN & BILL DOWNIE

In Barb Cullen’s remarkable reference book entitled ‘ Harder than Football’ there are more than five pages of names of those Footscray footballers who heard the ‘call to arms’ and enlisted for military service.

Source: ‘Weekly Times’ June 8^th 1940. Page: 51

Footscray’s long list includes such well known players as Reg Evenden ( Leading Arircarftman), Alex Gardiner ( 15^th Battalion Volunteer Defence Force), Charlie Gaudion ( who also played with North Melbourne, 2/14 Field Regiment), Alby Morrison ( Stores Depot), Marty McDonnell (23^rd Australian Heavy Anti Aircraft Regiment), Jim Miller (Service Corps), Charlie Sutton (10^th Australian Advanced Workshop), Norm Ware (2/1 Australian in General Hospital) and Harry Hickey.

The original source of this torn photograph of Harry is not known but it was taken some time in 1944 while Harry was in the RAAF. His service number, while in the RAAF , is shown ( i.e. 440766). The photo is possibly from RAAF archives but that needs to be confirmed.

Harry Hickey registered for duty at Yarraville on 19^th September 1940; and he served in the Army as a Bombardier with the 22^nd Field Regiment until February 1944. Immediately on his discharge from the Army, Harry enlisted in the RAAF; and, in quick time, rose to the rank of Leading Aircraftman. It seems Harry was stationed in Queensland until the end of the war.

Note: There may be some confusion regarding Harry’s service records but it is known that he was discharged on 27^th November 1945.

Of the many Footscray players who signed on during wartime , it appears that two paid the supreme sacrifice while on active service. They were:

Bill Downie ( ex-Eaglehawk FC ) who played with 69 games with St Kilda and Footscray ( 1929-1932). Bill Downie died in a POW camp in 1943 and now lies at rest at the Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery in Myanmar ( formerly known as Burma).
Jack Zimmerman, who played with Harry Hickey in 1937-39, died when he was a patient in the Heidelberg Military Hospital in 1944.

Sources: ‘The Sporting Globe’ March 21^st 1945 Page: 12

‘Sunshine Advocate’ September 8^th 1944. Page: 1 .

ARTHUR OLLIVER IS APPOINTED AS THE COACH

‘Cometh the hour …cometh the man’; and so it was that in 1943 ,one of Footscray’s ‘greatest sons’, Arthur Olliver, was called upon to lead the club as Captain and Coach. In the history of Footscray FC, Arthur casts an enormous shadow and arguably ranks with the finest players in VFL history.

Arthur is a legendary figure at the Western Oval and he played 272 games ( 354 goals) and coached the Bulldogs in 128 games.

Source: Footscray Football Club website.

Briefly, in 1943 , Footscray won seven games and finished sixth on the VFL ladder with a percentage of 93.6% . As far as Harry Hickey’s season went, he did not play any games with Footscray because, as mentioned above , he had enlisted in the Armed Forces.

While Harry was a enormous loss , the situation was compounded with Norm Ware and Alby Morrison also being fully committed to military duties. From the available figures, neither Norm or Alby played any games whatsover for the Bulldogs in 1943.

Considering the loss of such key players as Harry, Norman and Alby, Arthur Olliver did particularly well in keeping the club in touch with the best in the competition in that truncated season of 15 games.

Source: ‘The Sporting Globe’ March 31^st 1943 .Page: 12

Note: Although requiring verification, it is thought that a son named Robert Stanley was born to Enid and Harry Hickey in 1943.

1944-HARRY HICKEY-THE MATCH WINNER

Harry returned to play with Footscray in Round: 1 in 1944; and he ‘stole the show’ with a five goal haul against Geelong at the Western Oval. A couple of weeks later, he booted four against Collingwood. Harry played nineteen games ( 21goals) that season and perhaps his two outstanding individual highlights:

Harry reached his 100^th Senior XVIII VFL game against Fitzroy at the Brunswick Street Oval in Round :16
In a game that received widespread publicity and comment, Harry single-handedly lifted Footscray into the Final Four with a mighty kick after the final bell in Round:18.

The tale about Harry’s ‘Golden Boot’ goes something like this…

In short, either Carlton and Footscray would gain a berth in the 1944 final series; and the result would decide which team would advance to the finals With only seconds left on the clock, in the last quarter, Carlton and Footscray were ‘level pegging’ ( i.e. with 86 points apiece)

Virtually on the final bell , Harry Hickey marked the ball some 50 metres out from goal . Any score would deliver victory. To Footscray. Harry went back , lined up his target and let fly with an almighty kick; and the ball sailed long and high only to be marked (ostensibly) on the line by Carlton’s Bob Chitty.

Hearts sank and all seemed lost for the Footscray supporters. However, the goal umpire paused and then ran to the central umpire (Henry Hooper). The two umpires consulted; and then the goal umpire returned to the goal square and lifted and waved one flag (i.e. signalling a behind /one point had been scored).

Footscray had won by the smallest possible margin; and Harry’s ‘long bomb’, combined with the goal umpire’s brave decision, had carried the Bulldogs into the finals. The scores were : Footscray 12.17(89) defeated Carlton 13.10 (88).

The Bulldogs’ faithful were ecstatic; and, according to one press report, spilled onto the ground to celebrate the victory. On the other hand , the crestfallen Blues’ supporters headed for home and could only dream of what might have been.

ANOTHER SEMI FINAL DISAPPOINTMENT

Footcray met Essendon in the First Semi-final at the St Kilda Cricket Ground on September 9^th in front of a small crowd of 24,542. Rain, on the previous day, ensured heavy going and any ‘mudlarks’ would prevail in such conditions.

Harry Hickey was selected in the centre; and alongside him were two accomplished wingmen in the experienced Jim Miller and an emerging talent from the Essendon District FL named Geoge McLaren.

Powerful two-way running is a vital key to success in heavy conditions; and Essendon’s centreline of Ernie Coward ( 98 games), Les Griggs ( 98 games) and teenager Alan Randall ( 5 games) could not be under-rated in any battle for midfield supremacy.

According to one text, the Bulldogs were sluggish and handled the ball ( and the situation) poorly early in the game; and with the esteemed Essendon champion Dick Reynolds and Les Griggs and half back Herbie Tonkes ( ex-Preston Juniors) leading the way, Essendon slammed on six goals in the second term to hold a significant lead of 41 points at half time.

Source: ‘The Sporting Globe’ September 9^th 1944. Page:3

We will never know what Arthur Olliver said in his address to his team at half time that day but, whatever it was, it sparked a spirited third term revival; and Footscray added six goals to put them ‘back in the frame’ to grab an unlikely victory.

The last quarter was a dour struggle until Dick Reynolds goaled at about the 20 minute mark. Suddenly the ‘dam wall burst asunder’ and the Dons booted a string of goals that poleaxed the Bulldogs and sealed the outcome. Under the weight of numbers and the Dons’ surge, Footscray had capitulated and ended a season of ‘considerable promise’ on a dismal note.

Perhaps the message to the Arthur Olliver and his loyal band was simply that football teams must attempt to win every quarter and despite Footscray’s rousing third term, as good as it was, was never enough to take the coveted prize.

The quarter by quarter scores were:

Essendon : 1.3 6 8. 6 14. 17 (101)
Footscray: 1 1.1 7.4 8.4 (52)

Harry Hickey was listed in the better players for Footscray along with defender George McTaggart, Jim Miller, Joe Ryan, Len McCankie, Ron Grove and the renowned Tribe brothers (George and Tom).

Footscray FC in 1944. Source: ‘The Australasian’ June 17^th 1944 Page: 20

Arthur Olliver won the club’s Best & Fairest trophy in in 1944 and Bill Wood took out the goal kicking award with 51 goals. Bill was recruited from Albury; and had made the headlines playing in an Army Services match in Sydney in 1943. It is reported that he kicked 28 goals out of the team’s total of 31 goals that day.

BILL WOOD ANOTHER FORGOTTEN STAR IN VFL RANKS

Bill’s Wood’s first VFL game against Collingwood in Round :3 in 1944 was nothing short of astonishing . Bill booted nine goals to lead Footscray to an eight point win. Only John Coleman has kicked more goals ( on a VFL debut) than Bill Wood .The current players belonging to that select group are: John Coleman ( Essendon-12 goals ), Bill Wood ( Footscray-9 goals), Warren Ralph (Carlton-9 goals ) John Georgiades ( Western Bulldogs-8 goals ) and Scott Cummings also booted eight goals in his first game for Essendon in 1994.

During his career, Bill Wood kicked 294 goals in 115 games at an average of 2.56 goals per game. In the photograph above of the 1944 team, Bill can be seen on the extreme right of the back row. Harry Hickey is in the centre of the front row ( Arthur Olliver is directly behind Harry). The two inserts, in the photograph, are Alf Sampson ( on the right ) and Norman Ware ( who were probably both on active service at the time that the photograph was taken ).

FOOTSCRAY’S FLUCTUATING FORTUNES

The war dragged on into 1945 but ‘Operation Overloard’ and the landings at Normandy would prove to be the first page of the final chapter of the most catastrophic war in human history. While the defeat of the Axis powers was welcomed by the free world , mankind had entered the Atomic Age and an epoch of lasting uncertainty and suspicion/ distrust among nations of the world.

It was uneasy peace but in Australia football fans flocked back to the game. According to ‘The Age’ 83, 000 ( VFL statistics actually show 91,000 ) people attended the opening round of the 1945 season ( i.e. compared with 71, 000 in 1944, 56,000 in 1943 and 43,000 in 1942).

The figure of 83,000 may have been inaccurate as the VFL archives show that actually 91,000 people attended the six games of the opening round in 1945. Source: ‘The Age’ April 23^rd 1945. Page: 5.

Footscray was on the top of the VFL Ladder after Round : 1 having defeated Richmond by 10 points at Punt Road. However, the Bulldogs were particularly unfortunate to miss the 1945 final series; and Arthur Olliver must have been shattered to see his team relinquish its place in Final Four as a result of a last round defeat at the hands of Carlton.

Source: ‘The Sun’ November 10^th 1945 Page: 22

Harry Hickey performed strongly throughout the season and won his second club Best and Fairest award ( as shown above). Harry was discharged from the RAAF on the 27^th November 1945 and, although not documented, it is thought that he returned to his work as a draughtsman.

From what can be gained from the following extract, Harry’s Hickey’s proclivity for ‘wandering’ from the centre was a topic of hot debate in football circles in 1946. However, in Arthur Olliver’s mind, Harry was serving his team in the best possible way…

Is Harry Hlckey more valuable to Footscray in his present role of centreman, than as a rover? That question has often been asked by people who believe that Hlckey wanders too far from the centre. My opinion is that, the pivot is Hickey’s best position. He is still a matchwinner there. Source: Arthur Olliver as published in ‘The Herald’ on June 4^th 1946. Page: 16

1946- FINALS AGAIN FOR HARRY HICKEY

Footscray participated in the VFL finals in 1946 but once again stumbled in the ‘run to the wire.’ In front of a crowd of 61, 277 fans, Footscray was defeated by Melbourne by 18 points .

It was an enthralling last quarter; and it was reported that Footscray was unfortunate to lose after a remarkable fight back in the third quarter. However, several chances went begging; and the Demons gained momentum and won the crucial tipping points in those dying minutes to snatch ‘victory from the jaws of defeat.’

It seems that Harry Hickey started as a rover in that game but provided greater drive for the Bulldogs when he was shifted into the centre in the second half of the match.

Harry lifted in the second half of the Semi-Final. Source: ‘The Sun’ September 9^th

Source: ‘The Age’ September 9^th 1946 Page: 8

In 1946, Harry Hickey played eighteen games, kicked 10 goals and received one vote in th Brownlow Medal ( which was won Melbourne’s Don Cordner). It is difficult to verify but in the ‘wash up’ of that season, it appears that Harry may have finally proven to the selectors and certain newspaper journalists that he was of greater value to Footscray as a centre man (i.e rather than as a rover).

In the context of the shadow of the Cold War ( including a dreaded nuclear stalemate) which was evolving between the East and the West, the quandary of Footscray’s selection committee, regarding Harry Hickey’s best role for the Bulldogs, was fairly inconsequential.

1947-HARRY HICKEY IS CAPTAIN AND ARTHUR OLLIVER IS SACKED

In 1947, Harry Hickey took over the role of Footscray skipper from Arthur Olliver in the worst of circumstances because Arthur was ‘sacked on the job’ by the FFC committee.

Arthur’s dismissal was and still remains a mystery; and it is difficult to discover the logic behind the club’s strange decision. It whole affair is/ was an enigma and the truth seems to have been buried with the passage of time

Despite Arthur’s leadership and success in reaching the finals in 1944 and 1946, it is documented that a deptuation had met with Arthur to discuss the coaching postion for 1947.

According to Arthur’s side of the story, he was sacked and replaced by Jim Crowe ( former Carlton and Collingwood player ) who had coached Footscray’s Second XVIII in 1946.

Source: ‘The Herald’ January 22^nd 1947. Page: 18

Trying to establish the veracity of Arthur’s sacking raises more questions than it actually answers. However, there is no doubt that the FFC Committee’s decision to appoint Jim Crowe impacted upon Footscray in major and negative ways:

Arthur Olliver considered leaving the club to take up offers from other clubs e.g. Hawthorn,Richmond and Port Melbourne.
The club plunged to ninth position on the VFL ladder. In 1947 the Bulldogs won eight games and tied with against St Kilda in Round:12.

As Abraham Lincoln stated… “ A house divided against itself cannot stand ” proved true once again. The Bulldogs paid a hefty price for that puzzling decision at a time when Footscray , under Arthur Olliver’s leadership, was ‘building for the future.’ Although Arthur eventually decided to play on with the Bulldogs for season 1947, the baton of captaincy was passed to Harry Hickey.

Source: ‘The Sun’ April 14^th 1947. Page: 32

Harry Hickey played 14 games in 1947; but was forced to miss four games due to a serious finger/ hand injury which he incurred against Fitzroy in Round: 8 He returned in Round: 13 for the clash against the Bombers at Windy Hill.

Source: ‘The Sun’ June 9^th 1947 Page: 28

Perhaps the highlight of a demanding season for Harry may have been when he celebrated his 30^thbirthday ( together with his 150^th VFL game) against Hawthorn at the Western Oval. Harry kicked two goals and helped the Bulldogs triumph by 29 points… A fitting birthday present for the skipper !!

1948-HARRY HICKEY IS SELECTED FOR VICTORIA

A fortnight prior to the opening round of the 1948 VFL season, Harry Hickey was big news in ‘The Horsham Times’ in relation to a coaching position at Murtoa FC.

As can be seen below, Murtoa ( aka Magpies) had not only lined up a job for Harry but a home (i.e free rent) was also available if he signed on the dotted line. It was an attractive offer but Footscray officials would not entertain the idea.

Source: Horsham Times April 2^nd 1948.

Meanwhile back at the Western Oval, Jim Crowe, who had coached Footscray for 18 games in 1947 departed the club and Arthur Olliver was invited by the committee, to resume his ‘former job.’

One can only imagine how difficult and uncomfortable the meetings of Arthur and the FFC Committee must have been ( i.e. in asking Arthur back to pick up from where he left off in 1946).

Arthur was a ‘special breed of bulldog’; and he wasted no time in restoring order ( and perhaps morale) and steering Footscray back on the ‘right track’ to play finals. His vast experience and passion for the game were strong factors in driving Footscray ‘onward and upward.’

Harry Hickey was chosen in the centre for the clash against NSW. Arthur Olliver was named at centre half forward. Source: ‘The Sun’ June 15^th 1948. Page:16.

Harry Hickey and Arthur were selected for the Victorian team to play NSW in Sydney in June that year. Melbourne’s popular champion Don Cordner was named skipper, Arthur Olliver was vice captain and the talented squad included: Phonse Kyne and Gordon Hocking from Collingwood Bill Brittingham ( Essendon ) Leo Turner ( Geelong ), Eddie Hart ( Fitzroy ) and a brilliant but forgotten rover from St Kilda named Bobby Hancock.

Some 10,000 people attended the game at the SCG game to watch Victoria win by 50 points. Harry Hickey started in the centre; and, although details of the game are sketchy , Fitzroy’s Eddie Hart was credited with five goals.

HARRY HICKEY’S LAST GAME FOR FOR FOOTSCRAY

In 1948, Harry Hickey played 19 games including a Semi-final against Collingwood. Footscray finished fourth on the ladder with twelve wins and a percentage of 103.2% and met Collingwood in the First Semi-Final at the MCG on September 11^t.h

That game was Harry’s 174^th with Footscray; and would prove to be his last appearance in VFL football. In the pre-game publicity of the game, Harry was photographed undertaking his work as a draughtsman ( as shown below).

Caption text: FOOTSCRAY MEN for tomorrow’s Semi-final against Collingwood at their work today… Harry Hickey, centreman, is a draughtsman at the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission. Source: ‘The Herald’ September 10^th 1948. Page: 8.

On the day of the match, Harry was 31 years of age and was playing his 174^th game for Footscray. Only Arthur Olliver had played more games ( 237 games ) for Footscray ; and the average age of the Footscray team that day was 25 years and 74 days , compared to Collingwood’s 23 years and 64 days.

Source: ‘The Sun’ September 19^th 1948 Page:19

As can be seen from the above line-up, Harry was opposed to Bill Twomey that day. However, Bill injured his foot in the first half of the match and could not match Harry’s unique style of football.

Harry’s powerful running had Bill struggling to make contact and he had the ‘whip hand’ until the ‘big break.’ Footscray held a ten point margin/buffer at half time. However, in a strange twist of fate, Bill emerged as the conquering hero in that final.

At half time, Collingwood’s celebrated coach, Jock McHale, moved Bill to full forward. Pat ( Bill’s younger brother) ‘picked up’ Harry in the hope of curbing Footscray‘s drive from the midfield. History shows the plan worked a treat!

Bill and Pat Twomey of Collingwood ( Original source of photo is not known )

A scene from the match showing Allan Moncrieff and Tim Robb in an aerial contest. Source: ‘Sporting Globe’ September 11^th 1948. Page: 4

It was an inspired strategy by Jock; and it brought rich rewards as Bill Twomey booted five goals in the third term ( and a total of eight for the game). Meanwhile, young Pat Twomey was successful in neutralizing Harry Hickey’s influence. The headlines told the story of Bill Twomey’s match winning effort.

Source: ‘The Argus’ September 13^th 1948

Collingwood 17.17 ( 119) defeated Footscray 12.12( 84). Collingwood’s best players were: Bob Rose, Bill Twomey (8 goals) , Pat Twomey, Bill Nolan, Phonse Kyne, Jack Green, Lou Richards and Mac Holten.

Footscray best players were: Charlie Sutton, Joe Ryan (4 goals), Dave Bryden, Kevin Webb, Marty McDonnell and Harry Hickey.

FIVE FRUSTRATING FAILURES IN FINALS

What Arthur Olliver said to his players in his post-match address, that evening at the MCG, is not known but, for his team be in front at half time and then be ‘steam-rolled’ in the last fifty minutes, must have been galling.

Coaching is, at the best of times, a frustrating task; and sometimes it is impossible to find the right words to explain/pinpoint a team’s poor performance… No doubt Arthur was devastated and bewildered by the result.

Harry Hickey, who had played in every one of the club’s finals appearances ( i.e 1938-42-44-46 and 48), believed that the major reason for such fade-outs was due to the fact that the Bulldogs lacked a power forward (e.g Coventry, Mueller, Coleman, Lockett , Franklin, Cameron, Curnow etc. )

“ It was very , very disappointing ….We didn’t have a bloke up front who could take a screamer ( i.e. a high mark ) and kick a goal for us when the pressure was on. You’ve got to have that in finals , especially in the last ten minutes of the match” Source: ‘Sons of the ‘Scray’ Page: 22

HARRY WINS HIS THIRD BEST & FAIREST TROPHY

Despite another disappointment in the 1948 VFL final series , there was some consolation for Harry when he won his third FFC Best and Fairest award.

His first major trophy had been a decade earlier (1939).The other major award winners at Footscray in 1948 were: Charlie Sutton ( Most Consistent), Wally Donald & Dave Bryden (Most Improved) ), Bob Reid (Best First Year Player ) and Vin Morrisey won a special trophy for his dedicated efforts at training sessions.

Source: ‘The Sun’ September 18^th 1948. Page: 14

In addition to the above accomplishment, Harry polled 6 votes in the Brownlow Medal which was his best return since 1941 ( when he polled 13 votes). In 1948 , Footscray fared poorly in regard to the allocation of umpire’s votes (i.e. the Brownlow Medal ); and Charlie Sutton received 8 votes, George McLaren 7 votes , Harry Hickey (6) and Arthur Olliver and Tim Robb each gathered 5 votes . The winner of the Brownlow Medal that season was one of Richmond’s favourite sons, Bill Morris with 24 votes.

HARRY HICKEY LEAVES THE WESTERN OVAL

In the text ‘Sons of the Scray’ it is recorded that Harry…” stunned the club by announcing his retirement.” How different things are today when retiring players are given an organized, formal farewell and a chance to thank the fans, friends and family. It seems that when Harry Hickey retired it was a ‘top-secret.’ However, ‘something may have been the wind’ because in early 1949, Harry was appointed to te coaching position at Rochester FC in the Bendigo League.

Source: ‘The Argus’ January 14^th 1949. Page:15

In 1949, the Bendigo FL was one the strongest leagues in the VCFL ( i.e. Victorian Country Football League); and its eight affilates were: Rochester, South Bendigo, Eaglehawk, Echuca, Castlemanine, Sandhurst, Golden Square and Kyneton.

Rochester is a country town that warmly embraces community sport and it was/is a breeding ground for a long list of local footballers who broke into VFL ranks. Such names include : Paddy Mills ( Carlton ), Basil McCormick ( Richmond), Bill Lever (Carlton ), Hugh Murnane (Melbourne) , Des Nesbit (St Kilda), Ken Colvin (South Melbourne) and Charlie Van Der Bist who played with Hawthorn

Harry Hickey was a drawcard in the Bendigo FL and regularly featured in match previews and reviews for his skill and dashing style of play. For example, Harry dominated the match against Echuca in May 1949; and in that same season won the prestigious RSL award as shown below. ( Source: ‘Riverine Herald’ 1949).

Harry coached Rochester for four years (1949-52) with 1949 being his most successful season when he guided the club into the finals ( to finish third ). It is recorded that Harry performed well in the local league awards league; and he seems to have played a leading role in organizing a charity football match with the Mornington Peninsula FL’s club Hastings in 1952.

John Coleman, who was recruited to Essendon from Hastings, played in the game along with such VFL stars as Doug Bigelow and Bill Hutchison. Harry led Rochester that day; and according to the ‘The Sun’ ( October 6^th 1952) Hastings won the game . The scores were: Hastings: 12.10 (82) defeated Rochester 10. 10 (70). John Coleman kicked five goals and Bill Hutchison chipped in with four goals. It is interesting that Geelong’s famous forward George Goninon also took part in that exhibition game.

Source: ‘Sporting Globe September 20^th 1952. Page: 10.

When Harry Hickey stepped down from coaching at Rochester, Fitzroy’s talented wingman and Victorian representative, Noel Jarvis, was appointed to take over the role as coach of Rochester FC

A FINAL WORD REGARDING HARRY HICKEY

It is hoped that this article for ‘Footy Alamanc’ helps younger readers to appreciate the sporting prowess of Harry Hickay and his lasting contribution to Footscray FC, the VFL and country football.

Probably the greatest compliment that can be paid to Harry is that he was named on the wing in Footscray’s Team of the Century. His selection is measure of his brilliance and his unique approach to football.

Furthermore, the fact that his name sits alongside such legends as Ted Whitten, Charlie Sutton, John Schultz, Norman Ware, Allan Hopkins , Doug Hawkins, Wally Donald and Jack Collins tells of his class and attiude in VFL ranks…

“ Hickey did his job terrifically …quickly developing into one of the league’s most damaging on-ballers … he was a prolific ball winner ….a key member of the potent centreline of McLaren, Hickey and Jim Miller” Source: ‘Sons of the Scray’

Western Bulldogs/Footscray Team of the Century. Ted Whitten (centre), Harry Hickey and other legends of the Western Oval are in the famous painting by Jamie Cooper. Source: Western Bulldogs website .

Harry Hickey- Team of the Century. Source: AFL website.

Harry Hickey died at the age of 82 years on September 14^th 1999 at Mt. Eliza. It is thought that a family gathering and service for Harry was held at the Bunurong Memorial Park ( Dandenong South ) on September 20^th 1999.

REFERENCE BOOKS & SOURCES USED IN THIS STORY INCLUDED:

NLA- Various newspaper extracts as indicated in the story.
State Library of Victoria.
‘The Encyclopaedia of AFL/VFL Players’-Jim Main & Russell Holmesby.
‘100 Years of Australian Football’.
‘The Clubs’-Various authors.
‘The Courage Book of VFL Finals’-Ed. Graeme Atkinson.
World War: 2 Nominal Roll
‘Sons of the Scray’-Mark Buttler & Steven Milne
‘Harder Than Football’-Barbara Cullen.
AFL Year Books.
‘Complete Guide to Australian Football’-Ken Piesse.
‘The Armchair Footy Record.’

This article was written for ‘Footy Almanac’ by Roger Spaull in July 2026.

THE END

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