Written by
Allan Carter
Life member and Club Legend

It is with a heavy heart that I report the passing of our well-respected Club member – John Sykes, affectionately known as “Sykesy”.

John’s playing career started at the Club in 1949 and I first met him in April 1966 when I began as a 12-year-old junior.

My earliest recollections of John were his playing days during the 70’s and his involvement in coaching and the committee. Both on and off the field, he was the wittiest person I had ever known. His humour was second to none and he could suck an opposition player in at a moment’s notice.

In the late seventies, John had heart problems which brought his playing days to an end. However, he continued as a coach and committeeman at a time when the club was facing extinction. In the 1979/80 and 1980/81 seasons, he was assistant coach to Billie Pidwell and managed the second nine in Division 2. He was an instrumental part of the club’s resurrection at the time and continued to support the club for the rest of his life.

As far as I can remember, he was appointed a Life Member of the Club in the seventies but more importantly, was elevated to Legend Status in October 2018 at the Club’s 90th anniversary celebrations.

Although his health declined in the latter years, he still attended games and supported the club whenever he could.

He will be sadly missed, and I know I join all the current and past club members in offering sincere condolences to Rod, Leanne, and family.

Allan Carter
Life Member and Club Legend.