As the news of Paul’s passing leaves us in shock and sadness, we have seen many touching tributes made across social media sharing his contributions and those recounting fond memories.
Below find our own tribute written by Marty Kelliher, followed by other links to read about Paul and all of the comments left by those who knew him, including our own community in the previous post.
“A boarder at Monivae College, Hamilton who hailed from Terang in the Western Districts, Paul came to De La through his friendships with Greg Spithill and Pat McConville at East Malvern RSL and cricket connections, and very quickly established himself as a favourite with players, administrators and supporters alike with his gentle humour and willingness to volunteer around the club.
Paul was Team Manager for the Under 19’s from 2004 through to 2007, then team manager for the Reserves 2008 through to 2011 and was timekeeper, umpire escort, goal umpires across the seniors and reserves for a number of years.
He was a recipient of the Best Club person and shared that with the broader Under 19 group through their collective work in helping to bring about that sustained period of success from 2004 through to 2012 when the Blues won flags in 04, 06, 07, 09, 10, and 12 and the Golds won the flag in ’08 (the 1st “reserve Under 19 team” to win a flag).
There is a terrific obituary/write up on Paul on the Glen Iris Cricket Club website which outlines his unbelievable contribution to that cricket club and is one that highlights his standing at that club and the Eastern Cricket Association and which should be seen as the epitome of how local sporting clubs really only prosper with the efforts of guys like Paul.
It is bloody sad news and something that none of us ever wants to hear about as he was part of a diminishing breed in local clubs, with his willingness to assist others, put his hand up and volunteer so that other people could have a great day playing and watching sport.
RIP Pauly.
One of the really good guys”
