Bill Gollop first played with Avoca as a teenager in 1946.
That year he was selected in a forward pocket for the First semi Final, which Avoca lost to Moonambel by 21 points.
The following year he played on permit with Maryborough.
Bill returned to Avoca and, as he filled out, he developed a reputation as one of the best big men in the Lexton League.
Renowned as a tireless ruckman, he was often switched to centre half forward to bolster Avoca’s attack.
Bill was one of the best players in the historic 1953 premiership team.
In 1955 he shared Avoca`s best player award with Mike Cleary and was third in the League count with 18 votes.
The following year he easily won the club award with 52 votes.
Bill was captain and Coach of Avoca from 1956 until 1959.
In 1958, aged 34 years, he polled 18 votes to finish third in the Lexton League Best Player award, but took out the club equivalent.
When the reserves competition was formed in 1960, Bill Gollop was Avoca`s first coach.
He was honoured with Life membership in 1960.
As a footballer who devoted most of his life to Avoca, Bill Gollop`s long and distinguished career remains a fine example to all.
