Bill Vrolyks

Born in Holland, Bill Vrolyks emigrated to Australia in 1945 with the Dutch Air Force. Starting at the Sydney Austral club, Vrolyks transferred to Leichhardt Annandale for a total of 510 first grade matches. He helped implement the first coaching structure in NSW and traveled interstate to assist the formation of similar groups, leading to the Australian Coaches Federation. Vrolyks began coaching camps and clinics at Parklea Academy, contributing his time and effort for 10 years without pay. He was made a Life Member of the NSW Coaches Federation, has coached NSW and state youth teams and has spent 50 years in the sport. He was awarded the OAM in 1988.