The death of Syd Barker
Admirers of a fine althlete will regret to learn of the death, which occured early yesterday morning at the Hoddle street fire station, Abbotsford of Sydney Barker, formerly captain and coach of the North Melbourne and Essendon clubs He was captain of North Melbourne in 1914, 1915 and 1918, when the team was invincible in the Association. The North Melbourne ruck in those days, Barker, Rawle and Hardy has never been surpassed. Barker retained the captaincy until with Hardy and V. Irwin he transferred to Essendon in 1922, and the following year he led Essendon to the position of premiers, repeating his success in 1924. In 1927 he retired from the position of coach at Essendon, and returned to his old position of coach at North Melbourne.
Barker was six foot in height and weighed more than 14 stone when in condition. He was not a brilliant player, but was remarkably sound and solid. He invariably made the best use of the ball. He was a good leader, a sound judge of human nature, and always got the best out of his men. His speeches to his teams before entering the field were masterpieces of brevity and sound common sense.
Barker was born in Collingwood 42 years ago and played a few games with the Collingwood district before joining the Essendon (Association) team. He then then went to North Melbourne, and on to Essendon (league), where he was for four years captain and coach. He had 23 years service with the Metropolitan Fire Brigade and had risen to the position of first-class fireman. He leaves a widow and two children. The funeral will leave his home at half-past two o'clock tomorrow afternoon for the Melbourne General Cemetery.
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