BIO

Joe Sowton first attracted the attention of Norwood officials when playing in a trial match on the 19th April 1913. He was selected in a side chosen from junior players in the Norwood district to play against the Norwood senior team. Although beaten by 69 points, Joe was named best for the juniors while playing on the wing.

With Norwood missing six players from its 1912 side, Sowton was rushed in to play the opening game of the 1913 season against South Adelaide. He was also selected the following week against North Adelaide, this time as a rover and drew the attention of the Advertiser reporter due to his, “ dash.”

Together with a few team-mates, Joe paid the price for Norwood’s dismal start in 1913, having recorded two heavy losses, and was chosen in the Association team (Reserves). Joe excelled at this level. He was made Vice-Captain and at times Captain of the Association team. On the 23rd June 1914 he was chosen in the State Association team to play a trial against the Senior State team prior to their trip to Sydney.

On the 8th September 1914 in an article in The Mail, it was reported that eight Norwood footballers, including Stanley Sowton, had volunteered to go to war.

Joe was however, able to play out the 1915 season and managed just one more league game against Sturt on the 15th May. 

He had an outstanding season in the Association and was awarded the Carr Medal , “For all round play.”

For his service to the Norwood Football Club he was duly awarded Life Membership.

B Ridge Aug 2014