Tom Wynwood joined Yeoman in 1969, putting him on the verge of a half-century of service.
While in Queensland, Tom had played for the Wilston-Grange Gorillas. After a brief run with Cooee upon the family’s return to Tasmania, he accepted Russell’s invitation to join him at Elliott. His first game for the Robins was on 31 May 1969. Over 400 games followed. By the time he retired in 1995, he had become a member of the 400 Club, finishing with 403.
Tom became noted first as a midfielder and later as a specialist back pocket, with his judgement of the falling ball outstanding.
A highlight of his career came in 1978, when he was the centreman in the Reserves team which won the Club’s first flag for 26 years. More honour followed days later when he topped the poll for the Harrison Medal, despite playing only 9 games for the season.
Again, Tom was part of a drought-breaking outfit when the Reserves won the 1992 flag. He is particularly proud to still have been able to contribute at the age of 41. He stayed on, available to play if needed. In his final season, 1995, he played 3 Senior games when the Club was intent on winning the Reserves flag – as it did. That’s how he took his final tally to 403.
Tom joined the Committee early in his playing days. One of his jobs was selling the points margin tickets. He decided to give up that caper when he won 2 weeks in a row!
Tom was part of the Committee that oversaw the 1978 double premierships and was Secretary in 1979. He has been on the Committee at various times over the following years.
Add the uncountable hours spent working in so many ways to increase the Club’s finances and it becomes clear what a stalwart Tom has been.
Tom Wynwood has well and truly exceeded all the criteria for election as an inaugural inductee to the Yeoman Football Club Legends of Loyalty.