Killer to replace Snoz as Manly's Centre in Team of The Century

[Hamster Huey]

Did anyone see Wally O'Connell play?
He must have been one hell of a player for 34 games to keep Cliffy out (309 games).

O'Connell's influence was as much off the field, as on. His arrival at the club saw us rise up the ladder and laid the foundations for early GF appearances, both as coach and player. Arko himself notes that it was Wally's influence on him that influenced his approach to coaching/administrating, as well as setting the early culture of Manly.

As a player he was good enough for selection for the 1950 tour for Australia but the administration said he could only go if he remained with Easts. He declined as he had made a deal with Manly (and met qualification despite the NSWRL stance), sat out the season and then played for us for 51-52.

Perhaps there is scope for the club to have it's own 'Immortals' concept to capture those players with minimal time on the field but had significant influence, leaving the 'Team Of' for those with a few more seasons under their belt.

 

[Clint]

Did anyone see Wally O'Connell play?
He must have been one hell of a player for 34 games to keep Cliffy out (309 games).

O'Connell's influence was as much off the field, as on. His arrival at the club saw us rise up the ladder and laid the foundations for early GF appearances, both as coach and player. Arko himself notes that it was Wally's influence on him that influenced his approach to coaching/administrating, as well as setting the early culture of Manly.

As a player he was good enough for selection for the 1950 tour for Australia but the administration said he could only go if he remained with Easts. He declined as he had made a deal with Manly (and met qualification despite the NSWRL stance), sat out the season and then played for us for 51-52.

Perhaps there is scope for the club to have it's own 'Immortals' concept to capture those players with minimal time on the field but had significant influence, leaving the 'Team Of' for those with a few more seasons under their belt.

Wow. What a great story. I feel guilty for not knowing more about him. A club 'Immortals' concept certainly has merit and may encourage us to learn more about our great players from yesteryear.