BIO

Robert Hislop was one of more than 80 juniors from the Norwood district who applied to play in the Norwood Association (Reserves) trials in1946. Described as a “Well built, robust lad,” he played as a ruck rover and backman. Hislop impressed enough to be included on the Association training list.

He was chosen as a ruck rover, resting in a back pocket in the first, two Association games. Robert was named high among the best players on both occasions.

Norwood coach Jack Oatey, who coached both A and B grade squads, was keen to establish his best line-up. By the end of the fourth round he had used 26 players in starting line-ups, more than any other coach.

In round three, Hislop was given his opportunity to impress. He was chosen in his usual position in a game was against Port Adelaide at Alberton. Norwood narrowly lost the game by two points. Oatey was obviously unhappy and omitted five players including Hislop for the next game. Unfortunately for Hislop, Norwood defeated South Adelaide in this game by a massive 113 points and his chances for a regular league spot disappeared.

Nonetheless, as a local Norwood product Robert must have derived some satisfaction at making the league side if only for one match

B Ridge August 2020