Australian Football

Triple Magarey Medallist Lindsay Head was the first South Australian player to notch up 300 games. He was also, arguably, one of the code’s most skilful and intelligent players. Not that he lacked either courage or competitiveness - players simply do not rack up the number of decisive, clean possessions Head repeatedly managed if they do not boast such qualities; it was just that he seemed to perform almost every action on the football field with such smooth panache and effortless artistry that at times it was as though he was on a different plane from everyone else. 

That said, he could never truly be called a two-sided player, preferring to resort to a variation of the check-side kick when caught on the wrong foot; however, such was Head’s artistry and dedication to practice that he was able to perform this kick with exquisite accuracy time and time again.

An ardent traditionalist, Head refused numerous offers to move to Victoria to play. His loyalty to West Torrens is all the more remarkable when you consider that, after playing in a premiership side in only his second ever season, Head never again went even remotely close to a flag. On the personal front, however, he did win the club best and fairest award on a remarkable eight occasions, played 327 club games, kicked 525 career goals, and represented South Australia no fewer than 37 times. Chosen as an All Australian in 1956, he also won the Advertiser Trophy on three occasions, the News-Ampol Trophy twice, and was voted ADS7 Footballer of the Year in 1962.

Author - John Devaney