The Redpath family`s association with the Avoca Football Club dates back to 1900, when G.W. (George) Redpath played with the Bulldogs for two years.
Records are sparse, but George became Vice President in 1911, and continued to serve the club as an official, and supporter for the next 22 years.
He was Treasurer in 1923 and 1924.
In 1926 he became President for one year.
When Jack Jess stood down in 1930, two weeks after he was appointed, George Redpath again took on the role and remained President until he died early in 1933.
His death was a severe blow to football throughout the district.
The Pyrenees Football Association had just been formed, and George was honoured by being appointed President. Sadly, he passed away the next day, aged 63.
Alf, Leon and Edward Redpath all started playing with Avoca in 1928, and were joined by William in 1930.
The Redpath family had a close association with the Avoca paper.
Although Alf only played one season, he spent many years reporting on football, and was still producing the Avoca Mail in the 1970`s.
Alf was also the official gate-keeper, and in 1956 his loyal service to the club was acknowledged with a Life Membership.
Eddie Redpath started out as a fearless back pocket and later became a top centre man.
He had the honour of playing in four Premierships for Avoca, and is remembered as one of the club`s great players.
After 12 memorable years, he retired in 1939.
The Redpath name re-emerges in 1944 when the club reformed after the war.
Ivan Redpath was a rugged footballer who could play as a back man or forward, and gave the club 12 years service as a player and committeeman.
He retired in 1956, but, by playing in the 1953 Premiership side, carved his name into the club’s history.
Ivan is the father of John, Andrew, Tim, Robert, Peter and Chris Redpath.
John played in the 1974 Under 16`s Premiership side.
Tim, a fiery redhead, only played a few games of junior football before turning to umpiring.
However, even as a man in white, Tim gained notoriety when he clobbered a player who abused him.
Ironically, Tim`s brother, Robert, received a raw deal from an umpire in 1990.
Playing against Natte Bealiba, Robert turned on a stunning performance to kick 12 goals.
However, the umpire was apparently oblivious to the brilliant effort. In awarding his votes, the man in white ignored Robert, but gave his opponent best man on the ground.
Robert topped the club goal kicking twice, and included tallies of 12, 10 and nine goals in individual matches.
The combination of a solid build, and ferocious temperament often landed him in trouble early in his career.
To his credit Robert quietened down as he matured, and set a good example when he returned to the club in 1992.
In 1993 he was appointed coach of Talbot, and left with Avoca`s best wishes.
Peter Redpath has played mainly Under 16`s and Reserves football.
The youngest brother, Chris, has grown quickly in recent years whilst playing with the Under 16’s, and also shows talent.
John Redpath, the son of Leon Junior, started playing Under 16`s football in 1988, when the family moved back to Avoca from Dareton.
Renowned as a gutsy `Jeff Fenech look alike`, John briefly rekindled the Redpath tradition, which has been a proud and significant part of the Avoca club for almost a century.
