BIO

In early 1910 a young Western Australian came to Adelaide to work for the South Australian Railways. He was Walter Short and the Adelaide press referred to him as, “A prominent player from Subiaco,” and a “ pacy wingman.” Norwood succeeded in signing him and he was chosen on the wing for the second game of the season against North Adelaide.

He immediately fulfilled his promise. Reporters wrote about his turn of speed and how he outwitted opponents.  “His clever dodging and ground work created a great impression.” Reported The Advertiser. Walter’s good form continued throughout the season and earned him the best junior player award.  He also played in what was to be his only final for Norwood, a semi-final against Sturt, which unfortunately was lost.

In 1911 Walter’s form remained consistently good but this was not the case for the side. Norwood slid to an uncustomary position near the bottom of the table. In reviewing this disappointing year, there was general agreement that in Robin and Short Norwood had the best wing combination in the league.

1912 fared no better for the club but Short scored a highlight when chosen to play for the South Australian Railways in Melbourne against their Victorian counterparts.

At the club annual general meeting in March he received a sewing machine. This was not for any on field achievement but because, to quote the President, he, “Entered the bond of matrimony.”

Walter returned to Western Australia in 1913 and resumed playing with Subiaco but returned to Norwood for the 1914 season. It was another dismal season as Norwood finished last. Walter was seen as one of the better players and at least his final game resulted in a seven point victory over North Adelaide

B Ridge May 2019