Australian Football

Pacy, agile and strong Bill Serong was a centreman par excellence who was also sometimes used as a rover and across half forward. He joined Collingwood from CBC Parade, with the Magpies having to fend off interest from Geelong before procuring his signature.

Serong made his senior VFL debut in 1956 and was a member at the end of Collingwood’s losing grand final team against Melbourne. Two years later he was in the team which obtained revenge. He produced arguably his best and most consistent form during a 1959 season which saw him placed second in the Brownlow.

Somewhat surprisingly Serong dropped down the pecking order in 1961 and after managing just 10 appearances for the year he was allowed to transfer to North Melbourne. He only played one season with the Kangaroos but he emphatically proved that he was still a fine player by winning their best and fairest award. His stint with North saw him add 16 VFL games and 8 goals to the tallies of 98 games and 52 goals registered with the Magpies.

Author - John Devaney