Roy Cazaly

Roy Cazaly (1893–1963), footballer, really became a legend in his own lifetime, his spring-heeled leap inspiring crowds to chant, 'Up there, Cazaly!' as he was playing. He played 393 senior matches and 32 state matches.

Born in Melbourne, a fitness fanatic who did not smoke, drink alcohol or eat fried food, he played for St Kilda then South Melbourne, and could take a fingertip mark, turn a complete circle, land and keep running, without missing a step. From 1927, on and off, he coached in Tasmania – City Club in Launceston, North Hobart, New Town (now Glenorchy) – winning many premierships, and he also ran a fitness centre in Hobart. He retired in 1951, after playing for New Town – at 58 the oldest recorded player – and taking them to the championship.

Further reading: D Young, Sporting Island, Hobart, 2005.