The Police Boys club
owes its start to George Bryden who came to Traralgon as a young Policeman in the
early 1950s. Many people tend to retire after 5-6 years service, but George is
unique in that
he has stayed involved with the Club and the boys for 45 years. George always had the full
support of his family and co-helper, the late Geoff Marsh. Mr Bryden, or George as he
is respectfully known by the boys and parents alike, has always taught
Australian Rules to juniors as a hard but fair game with each boy having a
responsibility to do his part, both on and off the field. That respect is shown
today by many who return to the Police Boys to coach and assist in club
activities. George up until he sadley passed away in 2006 has given his wealth of experience and knowledge freely,
which we sincerely hope will last a long time to come with the club. His work
has been recognised by both the Police Boys and the TDJFL with life memberships, by
the AFL (50 years) with an AFL Medallion, and his service to Traralgon with a
Citizen of the Year Award.
GEOFFREY MARSH
Geoffrey Marsh passed away
on the 25 September 1982 at the age of 58 years. He came to Traralgon
from Yallourn in 1947 and worked as a butcher with Marsh and Co. Later on he was employed as a Carpenter by Ron Keuch, a
local builder.
In 1953 he was a member
of the Traralgon Police Boys Club which was later changed
to Traralgon Police Boys and Girls Club and then to Traralgon Police and
Citizens Club. He was an Instructor in the boxing department of the club. In
1955 he became a foundation member of the Traralgon Police Boys Football Club
with George Bryden when it was decided to form a junior association in Traralgon.
Geoff was assistant coach to George Bryden for a number of years.
Geoff left a wife Lola,
and a young family of five boys of which two played with Police
Boys, Robert played with the under 16's from 1958-60, and Andrew played in the
under 12's in 1978, under 14's in 1979-80 (vice-captain), and played
in the under 16 team in 1981-82 winning the best and fairest in the latter year.
Gary and Wayne didn't play football and Dale played with Pax Hill.
The
Police Boys under 16, past players and officials formed a guard of honour at Geoff
Marsh's funeral in 1982.
