Celebrating Sports Legends in South Australia

A new collection of stories is shining a light on some of the greatest sports figures of South Australia. It kicks off with a captivating story about Neil Kerley that takes place on his lovely property overlooking the Murray River.

Kerley is often discussed as one of the most important figures in South Australian football history, and the book dives into this legacy with great care. Authored by the well-loved Adelaide writer Michael Sexton, it carries a heartfelt dedication to his grandfathers.

Many readers will find themselves lost in the pages as Sexton’s writing flows so effortlessly, balancing a conversational tone with detailed storytelling. I found myself reading this book in just a couple of sittings, laying comfortably on the couch.

For a football fan, one standout chapter covers the 1976 SANFL grand final, a game that holds special memories for many, including myself. Seeing Sturt’s remarkable victory and Rick Davies’ outstanding play remains vivid in my mind. His statistics from that day—21 kicks, 21 hit-outs, 21 handballs, 15 marks, and a goal—are truly astonishing. I even remember running onto the field afterward just to pat him on the back!

Another notable tale includes Archie Roach and Sir Doug Nicolls, showcasing their journey together from Fitzroy to Government House in Adelaide. Learning more about their impact on the community was enlightening.

Though Peter Darley’s era predates my time, his story along with Ernie Sigley’s accounts reveal fascinating insights into past sporting life. Sigley’s description of Darley as an “absolute freak” and recounting a day out at the oval captures the shared joy of sport beautifully.

The book isn’t just limited to football; it explores stories of cricketers, soccer players, and tennis players as well. One chapter features a memorable meeting between The Don and Thommo, two legends with wildly different backgrounds, but united by the spirit of cricket.

There’s even a fun story about when Manchester United played in South Australia, with a colorful rendezvous involving George Best. It’s a piece that truly illustrates the vibrant history of sports in the region.

This collection resonates deeply as it takes readers on a nostalgic journey through sports history. For any fan of sports writing, Michael Sexton’s work comes highly recommended.