Australian Football

'Judda' Bee was a comparative rarity in West Australian football history in that he played for no fewer than four League clubs. He began his senior career at West Perth in 1923 and played 14 games and kicked 22 goals over the course of a two season stint. 

Far and away the best and most productive phase of Bee's career came at East Fremantle for whom he played 104 games and booted 143 goals between 1927 and 1932. Described as "a rover-follower" he was also well able to hold down other positions, notably centre, and while resting on a half forward flank he almost invariably managed a goal or two, typically using a place kick when going for goal from a set shot. He was a member of Old Easts premiership teams in 1928-9-30-1 and also represented the state during this portion of his career.

The 1933 season saw him coaching Bassendean in the Perth Suburban Association, a move necessitated by his desire to coach Swan Districts when that club took its big League bows in 1934. Had he stayed with Old Easts in 1933 he would have been forced to coach Swans from the sidelines in '34 whilst awaiting a clearance.

As it was, Bee played 21 games and registered 46 goals in two seasons with Swans before crossing to Claremont, for whom he added a final 23 games and 24 goals in 1936-7. 

Author - John Devaney