BIO

Alf Biddell showed promise as a champion forward from his early seasons at Norwood. He became one of Norwood’s most creative forwards, and versatile enough to play in the centre or backlines when needed.

The years 1929 to 1933 were the pinnacle of Alf’s football career and they also marked major milestones in his life. In 1929 and 1930 he was engaged to and married Amy, the cousin of Norwood player Tom Woodroofe. In 1929 he played on the half forward flank in the Grand Final against Port Adelaide. Norwood won by 41 points.

1932 saw Alf play three State games; two were classics against Victoria. South Australia lost the first and won the return game although Ken Farmer was missing from full forward with an ankle injury. Alf played at centre half forward in a powerful half forward line and scored two goals in a low scoring, tightly fought match. He won Norwood’s Best and Fairest award.

Alf missed most of the 1934 season through injury and illness. He was awarded life membership of the SANFL and retired in 1935 after a wonderful career for Norwood.


R Crompton Feb 2013