SOCCER

Soccer

Soccer has been played in Katanning since the early 1920’s however its fortunes have fluctuated over the years. Although the most popular football code in the world it has taken a back seat in AFL mad states such as Western Australia. Since the turn of this century, soccer has waned in the district and there is currently no competition in the area.

A HISTORY OF KATANNING RAMS SOCCER CLUB

By Stephen Bowes

During the 1980s, soccer matches in Katanning were played during the cooler months as a league of local teams of both Islander and non-Islander players under the control of the Katanning Islander Soccer Association. In this context, ‘Islander’ means those from the Australian territories of Christmas Island and Cocos and Keeling Islands. This engagement with, and enthusiasm for the round ball game in Katanning was low-hanging fruit, ripe and ready for harvest. The demise of the Katanning Islander Soccer Association left a vacuum in the Katanning soccer landscape, which was soon filled by a new club with ambitions to represent Katanning in the Albany Soccer Federation (ASF).

A meeting of soccer enthusiasts in July 1991 elected a steering committee with the meeting instigator, Stephen Bowes as chairman, Philip Groves as treasurer, and Kevin Carnell as coach. The full committee was completed with the election of Peter Blyth, Gary Julius, Stephen Swarbrick and Allan Swarbrick.

An experienced player in his prime, from Lincolnshire, England, Carnell had accepted employment farming pigs at Tambellup and was keen to continue his soccer career. His enquiries in Katanning found their way to Bowes, a former player in Northern NSW and WA Soccer Federations, who saw the chance to marry Carnell’s talent and enthusiasm for soccer football with his own ambitions to launch the Katanning Rams Soccer Club.

Approaches by the new Katanning club to the Albany Soccer Federation were met with some scepticism, but just enough encouragement to extract an invitation for Katanning to play a trial match against the Albany White Star Juventus club. This match, played at North Road Albany in August 1991 resulted in a 4-1 win to Katanning, with three of the goals scored by Steven Swarbrick, and one own goal. In November 1991, Katanning’s application for affiliation was approved unanimously by the five Albany clubs at the Annual General Meeting the of ASF.

Before the commencement of the 1992 League season, the Hub Cup was played in knock-out format. Victory over Caledonians carried Katanning to the final, where they were beaten 4-3 by Tricolore.

The Shire of Katanning offered the use of O’Callaghan Park, Katanning for season 1992, a rough playing field enclosed by the horse racing track, with sparse grass coverage, prone to being heavy in wet weather and hard in dry. The field of play was duly marked out in plaster of Paris to meet regulation dimensions using a borrowed line marker. The electric hot water system in place for post-match showers was inclined to deliver electric shocks should a player or match official blunder into touching the showers’ stainless steel taps with any part of his body.

Playing in red shirts, blue shorts and red and blue socks, Katanning’s first League match was played on May 10, 1992 at O’Callaghan Park. The opponents on the ‘big day’ were Rovers. A strongly competitive tussle marked by resolve not to fail on this historic occasion resulted in a 2-2 draw. Both Katanning goals were scored by Kevin Carnell. The team which took the field was:
GOAL KEEPER: Rob Berry,
DEFENDERS: Chris Horn, David Pink, Garry Julius and John Riolino,
MIDFIELDERS: Phil Groves, Zoran Simic, Steve Bowes,
ATTACKERS: Archie Alam, Kevin Carnell, Gary Quarmby.

Both substitutes were used when fresh legs were needed: Rocco Debellis came on for Pink, and Austin Dignan replaced Bowes.

Goalkeeper Greg Rogowsky rejoined the squad for the season’s second round match at North Road Albany, a 2-2 draw with Yakamia. Kevin Carnell and Gary Julius were the scorers. Katanning Rams’ first win came at home in round 3, a 3-2 win over Tricolore, with goals from Julius, Alam and Groves. There were further player signings during the season: David Hinchcliffe, Marcus Henriques, Tony Debellis, and Joe Schiano.

Katanning finished the 1992 season in sixth place from seven teams, with three wins, three draws and six losses, a balance of play in which focus settles often on the goalkeeper. Greg Rogowsky emerged from the 1992 season with the award for Best Goalkeeper in the Albany Soccer Federation. The Rams Best and Fairest was Gary Julius, Clubman of the Year Phil Groves, Junior Clubman of the Year David Pink, Player’s Player of the Year Gary Julius.

In 1993, Katanning ended the season in fifth position from six teams, with three wins, one draw and eleven losses. Gary Julius capped a fine year of outstanding performances, being crowned ASF Player of the Year. In doing so he joined a list of elite players to have been recognised in this way, which included George McFall of Katanning in 1968, and Rocco Debellis of Inter in 1969 (yes there were two Katanning clubs in the ASF at that time). Julius was also ASF Best Midfielder, and KRSC Best and Fairest. Clubman of the Year was Gary Quarmby, Players’ Player of the Year Steve Bowes, and Most Improved Player Harley Perich. The Club sorely missed the sublime skills and fierce determination of Rocco Debellis during 1993 season after he suffered a broken leg in a pre-season match.

1994 Season Honours: Best and Fairest Gary Julius, Players’ Player of the Year Vlada Jankovic, Most Improved Player Vlada Jankovic, Clubman of the Year Steve Bowes, Best and Fairest Junior Player Jeremy Lacco, Most Improved Junior Player Daimian Perrett. The Rams finished the season in sixth position from six teams, with two wins, two draws and eleven losses.

In January 1995, after three years of Rams’ membership, the Federation expressed concerns regarding conditions at O’Callaghan Park, and sought assurance that the playing surface would not again be “bone hard with no grass”. To this point in time, a nefarious ‘home ground advantage’ had worked in the Rams’ favour. The Shire of Katanning made it clear that no improvements would be made at the ground, due to their focus on developing the Regional Recreation Ground as the hub for Katanning’s sports clubs. In consequence, Katanning Rams applied for, and were granted, use of the Regional Recreation Grounds for the 1995 Soccer Season.

A new voting format (opponent team coach to award votes) resulted in Daimian Perrett winning Best and Fairest on twenty one votes, with runner-up Jeremy Lacco on twenty. Both of these players were selected for under sixteen representative honours with the Albany Junior Soccer Association, and were successful in bringing home winners’ medals from the Country Week tournament. Jeremy Lacco was voted KRSC Players’ Player of the Year. Gary Quarmby (Club Treasurer) and Steve Bowes (Secretary) shared the Clubman of the Year award. Bowes retired from competitive soccer following a broken leg suffered in May 1995 whilst playing against Albany London at Katanning Regional Recreation Ground. The injury required diagnosis at Katanning District Hospital followed by air evacuation to Perth from Katanning airstrip by the RFDS.

In 1996, Katanning won eight matches and drew two, finishing in third place from seven clubs which started the season (Polonia and Inter withdrew from the League during the season). Best and Fairest for 1996 season was Daimian Perrett, Players’ Player of the Year Daimian Perrett, Most Improved Player Gerard Wendy, Clubman of the Year Steve Bowes. A superb season in goal by Greg Rogowsky played no small part in the Rams’ most successful season. It was no surprise when he won the ASF Best Goalkeeper award for a second time.

In 1997 the opening of the Katanning Metro International Recreation Leisure Centre provided the club with new dressing rooms and facilities which were the best in the League. The Rams won five matches and drew three, to finish fourth in the six team League. The Club Awards were: Best and Fairest John Trent (also Golden Boot for highest goal scorer), Most Improved Tobias Seuk, Clubman of the Year Stephen Bowes, Players’ Player of the Year Daimian Perrett. In July the club’s junior players were thrilled to receive a four day coaching clinic from David Adamson, a former apprentice at Heart of Midlothian, and player at Shrewsbury Town, Carlisle United and Brisbane Strikers as a goal keeper. On the final day of the clinic, Adamson was joined by Perth Glory stars Gavin Wilkinson, a New Zealand International and Perth Glory Player of the Year, and Vince Matassa, the Glory goalkeeper and former Australian Youth International.

As the 1998 season approached, fatal cracks began to appear in the structure of the club. Stalwarts Gary Julius and Gary Quarmby flagged their imminent retirement. Katanning’s exchange students were returning to their home countries and several players who had completed their Year 12 schooling in 1997 were leaving Katanning. With the prospect of insufficient funds to meet affiliation fees and insufficient players to meet playing commitments, the difficult decision was taken to fold the club by placing it into recess.

Epilogue: From contemporary press reports, the game of ‘Association Football’ (abbreviated to Soccer) was first played in Katanning in 1912, its development in the region following the main Great Southern Railway and branch lines. However, the sport was decimated by enlistments and tragedy during the Great War of 1914-1919. Competition matches ceased in most country areas during the conflict, continuing only in Geraldton and Perth. Soccer then struggled to regain its momentum after the Armistice was signed in 1919 and the troops came home. It received an injection of vitality with new arrivals from Europe and the United Kingdom following the Second World War.

This history of the round ball game is largely missing from Katanning’s historical resources, from the Regional Recreation Centre and from the community’s consciousness. The author poses the question “Why is this so?” In January 1988, the Katanning Rams Soccer Club, received correspondence from the Manager of Recreation Services at the Shire of Katanning seeking expressions of interest from clubs who may wish to display “trophies and/or shields that represent history of their particular sport.” Following the demise of KRSC, the Secretary approached the new Manager of Recreation Services with a view to having the Best and Fairest Trophy put on display at the Rec Centre. It was accepted but never displayed. This same trophy was purchased by a friend of the club at a garage sale a few years later and returned to the retired Rams Secretary.

The Katanning Rams Soccer Club completed six seasons of League fixtures and many more knock-out Cup competitions between 1992 and 1997. On alternate weekends, players would board a hired bus early Sunday morning on a dozen occasions per season for the trip to a match in Albany. Each of the Albany clubs faced one or two trips per season to Katanning, with a far lower expenditure of travelling time and money. The Katanning Rams were very grateful recipients of the generous sponsorship of small businesses in Katanning, each and every one of whom deserve our lasting thanks, praise and support. (SB)

APPENDIX: Playing staff by year:
1992:
ALAM Archie, BERRY Rob, BOWES Steve, CARNELL Kevin, DEBELLIS Rocco, DEBELLIS Tony, DIGNAN Austin, GROVES Phil, HENRIQUES Marcus, HINCHCLIFF David, HORN Chris, JULIUS Gary, PINK David, QUARMBY Gary, RIOLINO John, ROGOWSKY Greg, SCHIANO Joe, SIMIC Zoran.

1993:
AJELIE Mohammad, ALAM Archie, AMAT Aizal, BERRY Rob, BOWES Steve, CARNELL Kevin, DIGNAN Austin, GAY David, GAY Simon, GRAHAM Robert, GROVES Phil, HENRIQUES Marcus, HINCHCLIFF David, JANKOVIC Lubo, JANKOVIC Vlada, JULIUS Gary PAPENFUS David, PERICH Harley, PINK David, QUARMBY Gary, RIOLINO John, ROGOWSKY Greg, SIMIC Zoran, SPENCE Neil, SWARBRICK Alan, VARIS Tim, WARNER Ashley.

1994:
AJELIE Mohammad, ALAM Archie, ALNA Nass, AMAT Aizal, ATIKA Steve, BIAHGI Rob, BOWES Steve, GAY David, GOWDY Neil, GRAHAM Rob, JANKOVIC Vlada, JULIUS Gary, KRUGER Troy, LACCO Jeremy, MEDDINGS Michael, PERICH Harley, PERRETT Daimian, PINK David, QUARMBY Gary, RAHMAN Abdul, ROGOWSKY Greg, SWARBRICK Alan, SWARBRICK Steve, TREASURE Jason, TRINH Paul, ZANNELLA Troy,

1995:
ABERCROMBIE Daniel, ANDERSON M., ATIKA Steve, BOWES Steve, CHOO S., COLBERT Mazna, DOMINGUES John, ENTWHISTLE Simon, GAY David, GAY Simon, HARRIS Daniel, HUGHES M., JAMES Corey, JANKOVIC Vlada, JULIUS Gary, KRUGER Troy, LACCO Jeremy, MCLEAN Ken, MEDDINGS Michael, NIKORA Dane, PERRETT Daimian, QUARMBY Gary, RAHMAN Abdul’ ROCOSMAN Osmond, RODWELL Peter, ROGOWSKY Greg, SELL Craig, SMITH Justin, TREASURE Jason, TRINH Paul, VARIS Tim, WENDY Gerard, WILSON Shane, WILSON Michael

1996:
ABERCROMBIE Daniel, ABERCROMBIE B., ALAM Archie, ATIKA Steve, DEBELLIS Rocco, DONNISON Steve, ENTWHISTLE Simon, JAMES Corey, JULIUS Gary, MACLEAN Ken, MCGRATH Leslie, MCMAHON D., PERRETT Daimian, QUARMBY Gary, RAHMAN Abdul, ROCOSMAN Osmond, RODWELL Peter, ROGOWSKY Greg, SAVAGE Michael, SMITH Jack, SWARBRICK Alan, TREASURE Jason, TREASURE Daniel, WENDY Gerard, ZILAB R.

1997:
ATIKA Steve, BOUR Benoit, CANNELL Justin, COWIE Keith, CURTIS Ian, HARRIS Daniel, JAMES Corey, JULIUS Gary, MACLEAN Ken, PERRETT Daimian, PERRETT Shannon, QUARMBY Gary’ RODWELL Peter, ROGOWSKY Greg’ SAIONE Andres, SAMUELS N., SEUK Tobias, THOM Kevin’ TREASURE Daniel, TRENT John, WENDY Gerard, WILSON Michael.

THE HISTORY OF SOCCER IN KATANNING

Researched by Arthur Todd

The information below has been sourced mainly from early editions of Katanning’s Great Southern Herald newspaper.
Stephen Bowes has provided some information prior to the information below. Read it here

SOCCER AT BADGEBUP.

Great Southern Herald
19 July 1922 – P4

After the Australian Rules, game last Saturday a meeting of Soccer enthusiasts was held, sixteen notifying their keenness to get busy with the game. Mr. Ernest Clegg, junr., was voted to the position of secretary, and a practice match has been arranged to take place on Saturday next, 22nd July, at 2. 30 p.m. A hearty vote of thanks was passed to the Katanning Soccer Club for the ball they donated to the players here.

Mr. E. A. Clegg, an old Soccer player of some class, has notified his willingness to referee the games. It is the intention of the players to get in some good practice and then arrange a match with the Katanning club. To any soccer player within 100 miles of Badgebup, a hearty invitation is extended to come along next Saturday afternoon.

BRITISH ASSOCIATION.
Katanning v. Badgebup. 

Great Southern Herald
19 August 1922 – P3

The local Soccer team are playing a match against Badgebup, at Badgebup, today (Saturday), on Mr. E. A. Clegg’s oval. The Katanning team will be chosen from the following: Little, Moore, Squirrell, Woods, Sandells, Coventry, Lawson, Robinson, Bray, J. Berger and A. Knight. Reserves: Field and Manton. Three cars will leave the Katanning Hotel at 1.15 sharp.

SOCCER.
NARROGIN V KATANNING.
(By “Pitman”). 

Great Southern Herald
14 July 1923 – P3

On Saturday last the Katanning Soccer team visited Narrogin to try conclusions, it was a beautiful bright day, ideal for sport, with just a nip of frost in the air. Katanning arrived by the 2.30 p.m. train and having changed prior to arriving at Narrogin came straight across to the grounds, as the match was timed to start at 3 p.m. The players for the respective teams were:

Katanning: Reid (goal), Martin, Childs (back), Coventry, Little (capt.) Ward (half backs), Raynor, Moore, Shoebridge (centre forward), Billington and Squirrell (forwards).
Narrogin: Johnson (goals), Houting, Norcott (backs), Ewing, Clunas (capt.), Primrose (half backs), Hawkes, Bennett, Hawke (centre forward), Grey, Robinson (forward).
The referee: Constable Budgeon, officiated in a most satisfactory manner.

The Game.
Clunas won the toss and decided to play downwards, though there was little difference either way as there was not a breath of wind and the ground was fairly level. As soon as the ball was kicked off, Katanning secured and quickly rushed it up to their opponents goal and it looked as if Narrogin were in for a slaughter until Houting and Norcott showed the visitors that they, too, had to be reckoned with.

Early in the game the cleverness of Hawke was evident and the visitors were not slow realising that he was the most dangerous man on the field. His ability became doubly apparent when, a few minutes later, being awarded a penalty kick, he gave Narrogin their first goal. This set the visitors on their metal and first-class play was witnessed. Coventry especially being responsible for some very good work both in blocking the ball and feeding the forwards. Squirrell, too, was showing his old-time skill. Twice in succession Narrogin was caught off-side, the offenders being Robinson, and Bennett. Katanning then secured the ball and a clever pass from Raynor to Shoebridge resulted in the latter scoring a neat goal, thus equalising matters.

Earlier in the game Shoebridge had proved himself, by quick and clever work, to be more than an equal for Hawkes and, when placed in the back line after half time, much relief was felt by the opposing team, though the wisdom of this move might be questioned by Katanningites.

Great efforts were made to alter the scores before half time and though the home team got the ball on the rush several times, they were met by the formidable figure of Little, or failing him, by Martin, who seemed as immovable as the Rock of Gibraltar. At half time the scores stood at one goal each.

After indulging in afternoon tea, during which Martin, observing that the caterers (very pretty young ladies) were short-handed, graciously offered his services, the second term began. From the kick-off Narrogin on the offensive, the absence of Shoebridge from centre forward being a point in their favor. Unfortunately, through a somewhat hasty kick, an open goal was missed by Squirrell. Hawkes and Grey soon got busy again, but a badly distanced pass from Robinson, and a bull-dog rush from Childs, nullified their efforts. The game now fluctuated from one end of the field to the other, the backs and goal keepers of both sides encountering the on-rushing forwards with complete success.

Clunas tried a few long kicks for goal and Ewing sent it just a few inches over the rail. Occasionally, Primrose and Ewing took the responsibility of the whole team on their shoulders and stood out from their fellows like Wellingtons; for Katanning. Squirrell and Raynor were conspicuous. A certain amount of carelessness and indiscriminate kicking was noticeable on both sides at this stage. The next goal was Narrogin’s. Hawkes, running up with the ball, passed to Grey to avoid Child’s rush, and Grey made a straight and sure shot for goal which passed through easily. Even the best players make an unavoidable slip at times and the next goal, which fell to Narrogin, represented one of the best. In a scrimmage in front of the visitors’ goal, Shoebridge, who intended clearing the ball away from the crowd, misjudged the effort of the kick, and the ball rolled through Katanning’s goal. After centering, Raynor secured the ball, made a bold dash for the Narrogin goals, passed every player who attempted to check him, judged the distance to an inch and placed another goal to the credit of the visitors. This was undoubtedly the prettiest kick of the day, and coming from the extreme right wing, an exceedingly difficult one. The scores were now Narrogin 3 goals; Katanning 2 goals.

There were but a few minutes to play and after centering the ball, Katanning secured and the whole team swept down the field in one last determined attempt to equalise matters. Norcott caught the ball and passed to Hawkes, who kicked a long shot at goal, but Reid, who doubted whether to leave the goal or not when a sudden rush forward of Bennett and Hawkes resulted in the former, after an exciting tussle with Reid and emitting a few unprintable ejaculations, just tipping the ball through the posts. When the knock-off whistle blew the scores stood at Narrogin 4 goals, Katanning 2.

After the match the visitors were entertained by the Narrogin Club at a dinner at the Duke of York Hotel.

No speeches were made, but Mr. Clunas reminded Mr. Little that it was something like ten years ago, in the ancient days before the war, since Narrogin had recorded a victory over Katanning. The visitors thoroughly enjoyed their few hours stay in the town and reckon Narrogin is a ripping place. They left by the midnight train and awoke the echoes and the roosters to the strains of “For they are jolly good fellows.”

Soccer.
NORTH COTTESLOE Vs KATANNING DISTRICTS.
A DRAWN GAME.

Great Southern Herald
11 August 1926 – P2

The visit of the North Cottesloe soccer team to Katanning during the last weekend was recognised by all enthusiasts as an epoch in the history of the British Code so far as this district is concerned.

The weather conditions were ideal for football and the Recreation Ground in perfect order, with the result that the attendance numbered over 300 and the play was of a very high class and interesting nature. Cottesloe, although without several of their top players, fielded a very sound team, and throughout the match played a good combined game, which must have convinced even the prejudiced onlooker that there is a future ahead of the game in this State.

The personnel of the teams which lined up before the referee before the commencement of the game was as follows.
North Cottesloe: Charlie. Graham (capt.), Campbell, Challice, Beckett, Cruttenden, Rothwell, Parkes, Disley, Nicholson, Rowbottom and Doepel.
Katanning Districts: E. Bentley (capt.), R. Newman, R. Tanner, E. Clegg, J. Rowberry, N. Rickett, L. Newman, E. Cooper, L. Battles, J. Fitzhenry and Spencer Squirrell.

The first goal was kicked by Cruttenden (who will be remembered by many Katanning footballers) within a minute of the commencement of the game. From thence to the end of the quarter the ball was quickly passed from one end of the field to the other, and some smart moves were witnessed. Spencer Squirrel equalising the score just before the half time interval. Katanning had the advantage of the wind in the first quarter and by the aid of this were able to repulse many of their opponents’ attacks.

Play in the second term was full of excitement with the North Cottesloe lads going to the attack immediately play was re-commenced. The most outstanding feature of the play in the second half was perhaps the brilliant defence work of Tanner, the home team goalie. Time and again, he relieved the situation and was accorded very hearty applause.

Neither team was able to score during this term and when the bell rang the scores were one goal each, the decision therefore being a draw. Mr. Hollebon had charge of the game and put up an excellent exhibition. Throughout the match was played in a true and sporting spirit with the visitors having the beet of the play. This was in a great measure due to the fact that their team work was better and their passing more accurate.

The local lads acquitted themselves well and put in some very strong and telling play, the only noticeable weakness being a lack of combination, which considering the team had never played before together was only natural.

THE DINNER.
“A fine gathering and one that augurs well for the future of the local Association,” was the opinion of one of the prominent visitors when commenting on the function tendered to members of the North Cottesloe Soccer team at the Federal Hotel on Saturday evening. More than 70 persons sat down to the repast, and host Pryce is to be congratulated on the very excellent fare provided. Mr. F. G. Joy, who has been identified with the with the local Association since its inception, presided.

On behalf of the residents, sporting bodies and especially the Katanning Soccer Association, the Chairman voiced a hearty welcome to the guests. In doing so he made special mention of the atmosphere of good fellowship pervading, and trusted that all present would have an enjoyable evening.

After justice had been done to the dinner, the toast of “The King” was proposed by Mr. F. G. Joy and responded to most enthusiastically. In proposing the toast of the “W.A. Soccer Association”, coupled with the name of Mr. P. Yates,” Mr. Hollebon, who, apart from being the president of the local body is also a referee of repute, drew players’ attention to the fact that they should look to and assist the League headquarters, as it was only by the successful conduct of this body that the sport could be put on a sound and permanent footing in this State. The speaker referred in commendatory terms to the good work done in organisation in the metropolitan area. He hoped that the time was close at hand when the Country Associations would be able to look to the league for more assistance. In explanation of this statement Mr. Hollebon specially mentioned the arranging of more visits of metropolitan teams to country centres, which he assented would give the sport in towns like Katanning the boost necessary to create the interest of the general public.

“To keep up the interest of every association, whether in the town or the country, we must cultivate young players,” was the opinion expressed by Mr. P. Yates when replying to the toast of the W.A. Soccer Association.

The game at present is played, for the most part, by grown men from the British Isles, but the speaker urged that, wherever it was practicable, young enthusiasts should be brought into the fold and educated in the British code. He promised to make a full report to the League of the astonishing progress of the Katanning Association, and also of the very high standard of play ruling at this centre.

To Mr. E. A. Clegg, senr., fell the task of proposing the toast of “Our Visitors,” all of whom he described as being sports of the true British type. The game of soccer was a binding link between all who had come from the Old Country and because of this, if not for anything else, he was glad to welcome the visitors. The game in Katanning was played throughout in conformity with the rules and the local boys had gained many valuable points as result of the visit.

Councillor Pitman, after apologising for the unavoidable absence of the Mayor of Cottesloe, Mr. Aden Bryan, thanked the Katanning Association for the wonderful welcome it had accorded the visitors from the coast, A welcome, he hoped, the Katanning Association would give the Cottesloe people a chance of outdoing at no very distant date.

In supporting the remarks made by Mr. Pitman, the skipper of the North Cottesloe team, Charlie Graham, impressed satisfaction that the afternoon’s game had ended in a draw, as he contended both teams were very evenly matched, the local team having improved out of sight since his last visit. Speaking on behalf of his fellow players, he made it known that they were all having a great time.

In a neat and humourous speech Mr. George Joy proposed the toast of “Kindred Sporting Bodies.” An enthusiast in all games, he spoke in a convincing manner. Sport, he said, was a vital component of every man’s education, instancing in support of his argument, the fitness of the men who enlisted from the various parts of the Empire where a deal of attention was given to sport.

After the toast had been heartily honored, Mr. A. G. Hobbs, President of the Katanning (Australian) Football Board of Control, rose to reply. He congratulated the players of both teams on the exhibition of the British code put up, and stated he was of the opinion that the local Soccer Association would prosper and establish for itself a name for high class play, as had so many or the other sporting bodies in Katanning. In closing, Mr. Hobbs said that it was not the actual class of the game that counted, but the manner in which it was played and the participants ability to accept either victory or defeat as men. He would convey to his Board the expression of good will voiced by members of the British Association.

Mr. Challice then rose to propose the toast of the “Katanning Soccer Association.” He expressed surprise at the number of first-class players in the Association, and also at the sincere enthusiasm which existed amongst members of the various clubs. As a player he made reference to the excellent exhibition put up by referee Hollebon.

As President of the Local Association. Mr. Hollebon thanked Mr. Challice and the Cottesloe Association for the kind remarks passed, and also the residents of Katanning for their generous support. He appreciated the suggestions put forward by the speakers for the advancement of the local Association. Special mention was made of the fact that the Australian Football Board of Control had co-operated to make the visit o£ the Cottesloe players a success. Speaking in his capacity of referee, Mr. Hollebon congratulated the visitors on their showing, referring especially to the quick and accurate passing. He felt sure that members of the local Association could benefit as a result of this match.

Other toasts honored were “The Press,” “The Artists,” and last, but by no means least, “The Chairman.”

A feature which largely contributed to the undoubted success of the entertainment was the music, songs and instrumental solos being contributed by the following: Messrs. E. A. and R. Clegg. J. Rowberry, King, E. Bentley, R. Lawson, Meiklejohn. C. Graham and Campbell.

At the conclusion of the programme, Mr. E. A. Clegg made the announcement that a Championship Shield had been donated for competition in the local Association. The information resulted in riotous applause. The name of the donor has not yet been announced. The committee responsible for the arrangements is to be congratulated on conducting the largest dinner ever given in Katanning by any one sporting body.

AT BADGEBUP.

Great Southern Herald
11 August 1926 – P2

At the invitation of the Badgebup Soccer Club the visiting team from North Cottesloe journeyed out to Badgebup on Sunday last. A very fine game resulted, the visitors winning by 4 goals to nil. Badgebup played a very good game, Tanner, the home team’s goalie proving to be the star performer of the day. His saves were beautiful to watch. E. Clegg also did well, as back, whilst Roy Newman worked very hard and did his full share in keeping the visitors in check.

After the interval, during which the ladies took snaps (Badgebup photo below) of both teams, North Cottesloe got to work in real earnest and played some good soccer and attacking hard they were soon rewarded. As a result of some pretty combination play 3 goals were put up, and with two minutes to go, North Cottesloe made a final effort and were re warded by a clinking shot from Graham (capt.), finishing a very interesting match.

A large number of visitors were present from all parts of the district, and thoroughly enjoyed the game. The noted hospitality of the Badgebup folk was in no way lacking with afternoon tea being served in good style. This was very much appreciated by the visitors.

Mr. E. A. Clegg refereed the game to the satisfaction of all players. The visitors left for Perth by the midnight train on Sunday.

The Badgebup team.
This is both a small piece of history and a wonderful image of Badgebup Association Football Club in August, 1926. The game was also known at the time as British Football, and by the end of the 1920s as Soccer. In the back row in the cap is Mr Clegg (senior), 3rd from left is Ernest Clegg, and 4th is Rex Clegg. Middle row left is George Joy. Front row 3rd from left is Edgar Finnelly.
I am indebted to Selby Longmire for this photo and for names. [Stephen Bowes]

BADGEBUP V. KOJONUP.
The second round of the Katanning and District League will commence on Saturday next when Badgebup will meet Kojonup on the Katanning Show Grounds, the kick-off is timed for 3 p.m..

MURADUP V. KATANNING
This match will be played at Muradup. Players are requested to meet at Mill corner at 1.15 sharp. The following team will represent Katanning: H. Bell, S. Prangley, R. Bartlett, N. Rickett, E. Bentley, J. Coventry. E. Garman. F. Smith. S. Gough. R. Lawson, S. Squirrell. Reserve. R. A. Bell.

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LATER YEARS

SOCCER
Higginson has Sprained Ankle

Great Southern Herald
7 August 1953 – P6

One of Katanning’s most valuable players, Jim Higginson, sprained an ankle in the last two minutes of practice at Prosser Oval, last Sunday. It is understood that the sprain is a slight one, and there is a strong possibility that he will be able to play in the Charity Cup Carnival, which is to be held at Narrogin tomorrow and Sunday.

A general meeting of the Katanning Soccer Association was held in the supper room of the Federal Hotel last Tuesday night, and the Katanning team was chosen. On paper the side looks strong, and should acquit itself well at the Carnival. The team includes a number of New Australians who played first and second division soccer in their homelands.

THE TEAM
Below are thumbnail descriptions of the players who will represent Katanning.

Wilf Robson (captain) Came to Australia three years ago from England, where he played in county league soccer for six years. A full back, weighing 12 stone and 5’8″ tall, Robson is a vigorous exponent with great anticipation, and possesses a long, clearing kick.

Jim Higginson: 28-year-old inside right, who played soccer in county leagues in England, and also with Royal Navy teams in Italy, India, Africa, Malta, Scotland and Gibraltar. Is a clever player, with good ball control and foot-work, his dribbling being of a high standard.

Zottolir: A young 25-year old player, compactly built and with tons of pace. Came to Australia from Italy 17 months ago, where he played second division soccer for 2 ½ years. Is definitely one of the team’s best.

De Santis: A diminutive left winger, De Santis is noted for his tigerishness and his heading ability. Played in the same competition as Zottolir in Italy.

Andre Sukiennik: This robust Pole is the team’s goalkeeper. Positions himself well and does not hesitate to come well out from goal when necessary. Has a strong kick, and has played for several teams in this State.

George Shirra: Aged only 23, this nimble centre forward George Shirra: Aged only 23, this nimble centre forward has excellent control and is unselfish. In the match against Pingelly, Shirra was one of Katanning’s best.

Roberto Kobuschi: Played “big-time” soccer in Italy in the first division as a right half; and also represented his country against France in 1947. Kobuschi is a strong defensive player who feeds his forwards well, and shows sound judgment.

Searle: Has had many years experience. Plays at left half back and is a vigorous tackler with a powerful clearance. Is veteran of the team.

Alex Berins: Is a 25-year old Latvian, who played soccer in junior teams in his home country, and in W.A. for Shenton Park in the A division. Plays either at inside or outside right. Is exceptionally fast, with fine ball control.

Franco Bartocchini: An Italian, 26 years old, Bartocchini played second division soccer in Northern Italy. He plays good, heady football as inside left.

Danny Smith: Strangely enough, this 25-year-old left centre player is not of English parentage but is Dutch. He played junior soccer in Holland and has been in this country four years. Smith is an enthusiastic player, and is also the secretary of the Katanning Association.

Valerio Guiseppe: Is the team’s first reserve. Guiseppe has played second division soccer in Northern Italy. Is a small, but hard-working footballer who can adapt his game well.

Players and supporters who intend making the trip to Narrogin are asked to be at the Post Office at 9.30 a.m. Saturday.

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KATANNING UNITED

From Stephen Bowes

Continuing the theme of Katanning’s history of playing Association Football (Soccer), here is the Premiership team of 1966 (some well known faces among them). Success at last after twelve seasons in the Albany Soccer Federation. (With thanks to Diana Cavoli)

This team is KATANNING UNITED, and the trophy won by this victory was the Kia Ora Cup. Katanning had two clubs playing in the Albany Federation in the 1960s. The other was Katanning Inter. [Info supplied by Tony Rondoni]

Triumph after 12 years

Great Southern Herald
1966

The Katanning Soccer team won its first since entering the competition twelve years ago, when it beat Albany Wanderers 3 nil in last Sunday’s final.

Team members pictured after the match were: Rear L-R: A Rondoni, G McFall, F Pellicaan, R DeBellis, R. Laurie and Loutit. Front: F Bonini, J Higginson, A Pawlowski (captain), S Degac and J Cavoli. Missing team members are A Holmes, J Pellicaan, R Powell and A Kapor.

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RECENT YEARS
By Stephen Bowes

KATANNING RAMS

Around 1990, local optometrist Stephen Bowes placed an advertisement in the Great Southern Herald to gauge local interest in forming a soccer team in Katanning to compete in the Albany Soccer Federation competition. At the time there were a number of teams playing in Katanning.

As there was an enough interest a committee was formed which applied for inclusion into the Albany Competition and was accepted. Team members included Matera Senior, Tony Rondoni, Adam Pawlowski, Rocco Debellis and George McFall.

KATANNING FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION

A meeting was held on 8 August 2012 with Football West’s Gordon Duus at the Katanning Leisure Centre about creating a soccer competition in Katanning. A decision was made to call the new body Katanning Association Football.  From that meeting, a further meeting at the Katanning Senior High School was held to develop a constitution.

Katanning Soccer Association Inaugural Annual General Meeting was held on 20 March 2013 at the Katanning Leisure Centre.

A special meeting was called for Wednesday 17th April 2013, to gauge the interest in setting up the Katanning Association Football Inc and start a local competition. From that meeting an Executive Committee for the Katanning Association Football Inc was formed and expressions of Interest for players, club officials, coaches, referees and volunteers for the Katanning Soccer Association were called for.

From Stephen Bowes:

Another feather in the cap of a Katanning sports star, Gary Julius. In 1997, my team mate and friend, Gary Julius, and our younger team mate, Damian Perrett, from Katanning Rams Soccer Club were selected to represent the Great Southern Allstars (WA) in a match versus Perth Glory. Here is Gary in a tussle with Glory legend, Craig Naven. [Photo from the Great Southern Herald].

From Stephen Bowes:

Early 1990s: Greg Rogowsky (Goal keeper – Katanning Rams) with some of his young charges of Katanning Rams Junior Soccer Club. Tallest is Gerrard Wendy, and the smallest is Michael Wilson to the left of the goal keeper. Actually, the young fellow to the right of the keeper is also smallish. Photo by Shirley Brokenshire is at Katanning Regional Recreation Ground.

Back Row (L to R): Greg Rogowsky, Gary Quarmby, Gary Julius, (?), Steven Swarbrick, David Gaye, Robert Biaggi, Archie Alam. Front Row: (?), Vlada Jankovic, Robert Graham, (?), Stephen Bowes. I apologise for the three names I’ve forgotten.

My closest friends in the 1990s were my team mates. The Katanning Rams Soccer Club played in the Albany Soccer Federation. Photo taken at O’Callaghan Park, in the old Racecourse.

This photo looks like our prototype team one year before Katanning Rams entered first grade competition in the Albany Soccer Federation circa 1990. Back row, left to right: Kevin Carnell, Gary Quarmby, Gary Julius, Steven Swarbrick, Phill Schotte, Steve Bowes. Front row: (?), Phil Groves, (?), Alan Swarbrick, Greg Swarbrick.

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EARLIEST YEARS

From Stephen Bowes

Before World War 1, Association Football, the round ball game, was played up and down the Great Southern Railway. As this piece relates, one of Narrogin’s rivals at the time was Katanning, and for this reason, I am sharing to Lost Katanning.

The game of Association Football, later abbreviated to Soccer, was first played in Narrogin in 1913, by which time the population had doubled. The introduction of the game was tied to the building of the Great Southern Railway and instigated by Mac Evans (Royston M Evans), an employee of the Government Railways, who was based in Narrogin at the time.

Evans had helped build up the Rangers club in Perth starting in 1901 and played in its championship side of 1906. He also represented WA in association football and cricket.

This photograph of Narrogin Association Football Club 1913 identifies in the back row A. E. Liddington, the local headmaster on the far left, standing next to F. Floyed, Roberts on the far right, next to Boyle; on the left of the front row Hugh Primrose next to Heedman, J. C. Clunas with the ball, then J. Johnson and Howting. Football historian Richard Kreider confirms that Mac Evans is the player in the pale polo-necked jumper.

In May 1913, Narrogin played Training College (0-1), Collie (1-1) and Cuballing (5-1). In April 1914, Narrogin secured a draw (1-1) against leading Perth club Thistle. The team list for this match was R. Grainger, Hogg, J. C. Clunas, Howting, Bonney, Juggins, Morrison, Argent, Johnson, Primrose, Gray. With war looming in 1914, both Narrogin and Katanning Association Football Clubs played a number of friendly matches against the Royal Australian Garrison Artillery.

However, the Great War led to the decline of the Narrogin club in 1915. Indeed, I am led to believe that seven of these men served in the Australian Imperial Force (I cannot be certain that I have the correct Juggins brother, and errors and omissions are my own).

Hugh Primrose served with the 11th Battalion, John Clark Clunas the 16th Btn, Joseph William Johnson the 28th Btn and Australian Army Ordnance Corps, Thomas Hogg the 11th and 51st Btns and Victor Bonney the Australian Army Service Corps. We are thankful for these men surviving the Great War, and for Clunas and Hogg further serving Narrogin in civilian life.

Roger Tom Juggins of the 11th Btn was killed in action at Louverval, France on April 5, 1917 and has no known grave. The three Juggins brothers had been responsible for building the Agricultural Hall at No Mans Lake before the war. Alexander Campbell White Morrison of the 44th Btn and 11th Light Trench Mortar Battery was killed in action on October 16, 1917 and is buried in Larch Wood (Railway Cutting) Cemetery, Zillebeke, Belgium. Four brothers and his father also served in the Great War of 1914-18.

I am indebted for the early history of the Narrogin Association Football Club to Richard Kreider, ‘Paddocks to Pitches’, and to Murray Edward Little for the team photograph.

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GARRY JULIUS

GARY JULIUS was born in South Africa in September 1964 and at the age of six, he joined the junior ranks of the Aston Villa Soccer Club of Johannesburg, South Africa, where he played all his early soccer football. In 1978, the Julius family migrated to Perth and in 1988 Gary to Katanning and helped form the Katanning Rams Soccer Club. Continue reading

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LOST KATANNING FACEBOOK GROUP
From Members

SOCCER

These posts appeared following a comprehensive sport report from Member Vic Filmer on the Lost Katanning Facebook Group. The posts started with one from Stephen Bowes:

Stephen Bowes
Some noteworthy and impressive achievements right there, from which I do not detract in any way. I note the absence of soccer from the story of sporting achievements of Katanning people. During the period in question, Katanning soccer teams won two Great Southern League Championships, in 1961 (jointly with Rovers) and in 1966. The best and fairest player in the league, designated as ‘Player of the Year’ for 1968 was George McFall and for 1969 Rocco Debellis. My friend, Tony Rondoni, represented his region of Italy at Rome’s Stadio Olympico before bringing his substantial talents to Katanning. From a host of very talented players in this period, Tony nominates Rocco Debellis as the best player to pull on soccer boots in this era in Katanning.

Selby Longmire
Stephen Bowes, Well said, I was lucky enough to be a rep in the West Australian school boys Rugby Union team for three years 1963 -1965, with trips to Melbourne, Canberra and then Melbourne again our coach in Canberra was a former Wallaby Coach.

Stephen Bowes
Selby Longmire, Good memories, I’ll bet. Well done! Sport plays an important social role, and as regards football, each code has its own culture. I would like soccer to adopt rugby’s respectful treatment of referees, with only the team captain permitted to speak to the ref. Soccer and Australian rules players let their sport down with their tantrums. It’s unseemly, and it spreads onto the spectators, whose abuse of officials is foul.

Phil Rutherford
As a kid I didn’t know soccer (football) was such a widely played sport. I played for Inter and was selected to play schoolboys (or under 16s – can’t remember which) for WA against NSW and thought that was about as big as the game got. This was before TV so there was never a thought of trying too hard to make a career of it.

Stephen Bowes
Phil Rutherford, I didn’t know of your representative honours, Phil. Well done! We live and learn. There is a large gap in Katanning’s sporting history as regards soccer during this period. When I arrived in WA, there were 46 soccer clubs in 4 divisions in the SFWA, the ‘top flight’ mainly based around Perth. Then there were 44 clubs in Perth’s amateur leagues. Most larger towns had their own league competitions: Albany, Busselton, Bunbury, Geraldton and Kalgoorlie. Among such a large cohort of players, it is a fine achievement to be selected for WA.

Phil Rutherford
Stephen Bowes, I would hardly call them honours. I had never heard of football/soccer until one afternoon at school when a teacher declared that he was going to try to put a team together to play schoolboy carnivals. I had played hockey so turned up thinking it would be much the same. At least the positions were the same. We quickly learned that I wasn’t the left winger that I had told the teacher I was so, because I was fairly tall (and had also played Aussie Rules for Australs juniors) I was put in goal. Fortunately, I made a couple of friends with the O’Shea brothers who were good players and they showed me the ropes. I can’t remember if a school team was ever formed, but I do know that the three of us used to go down to the pitch behind the swimming pool and they would put me through my paces. We also got picked up to play for Inter juniors and would travel to Albany and Narrogin (and other places I can’t recall) where our junior team would routinely get thrashed six or seven-nil. Being the busier of the two goalkeepers on the ground worked out well one day when some selectors came to see us play and I was asked to try out for the WA team to play a carnival in Perth. I was selected but only played one or two games. In later years I went on to play for the Army and with a British team in Singapore. I also played senior football here in Canberra until I got too old (or so I was told.

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WHAT IS ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL (Soccer)?

Association football, more commonly known as simply football or soccer, is a team sport played between two teams of 11 players who primarily use their feet to propel the ball around a rectangular field called a pitch. The objective of the game is to score more goals than the opposition by moving the ball beyond the goal line into the opposing side’s rectangular framed goal. Traditionally the game has been played over two 45 minute halves, for a total match time of 90 minutes. With an estimated 250 million players active in over 200 countries it is considered the world’s most popular sport.
Continue reading

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CAN YOU HELP?

This is the information I currently have. Do you have any information or photographs relating to the history of Association football in Katanning? If so, I would love to hear from you. You can go HERE or I can be contacted via email at admin@lostkatanning.au