Australian Football

One of nine brothers, of whom four achieved prominence as league footballers, Arthur Hiskins was a vibrant, powerful player who was sufficiently adaptable to be able to perform well in almost any position on the field. Nicknamed 'Poddy', he hailed originally from Rutherglen, and was already 21 years of age when he commenced his VFL career with South Melbourne in 1908. The following season saw him lining up on a half back flank as the Southerners overcame Carlton by two points to win their first flag for 19 years (and first in the VFL).

One of the longest and straightest kicks in the South side, Hiskins also played many fine games as a forward. His lengthy career was interrupted by war service between 1916 and 1918, which meant he had the misfortune to miss South's second VFL premiership victory in the last of those years. He resumed as good as ever in 1919, however, and carried on playing for another five seasons, amassing a total of 185 VFL games, and kicking 56 goals.

From 1930 to 1933, Hiskins officiated in 52 league games, as a goal umpire.

Author - John Devaney