Sport
11 October, 2022
Neil Wilson Honoured by Wattles
Wattles stalwart Neil Wilson has become the club’s 61st Life Member.
In his junior league days Neil won selection for a tour of New Zealand with a Darling Downs representative team, and was recruited by Wattles senior club for its Under 16 team of 1975.
That first year in the big league reaped a premiership win, the dose repeated as an Under 18.
From there the talented fullback/halfback evolved into a regular in Wattles senior grades.
It’s a challenge to measure the time the club devotee has worn the prized green and gold colours, but it can certainly be measured in decades.
Neil, and wife Judy, have made a big contribution to Wattles’ junior and senior clubs.
Both are Life Members of Wattles Junior Rugby League Club, Neil serving as club President in 2000 and 2001, and was a premiership winning coach.
Neil is also a Life Member of the Zone 5 Junior Rugby League after a coaching involvement spread over more than a quarter of a century.
Neil and Judy’s sons Brian, Brenden and Jason have all worn Wattles colours with pride continuing an admirable family tradition.
Neil has been and remains a familiar face on Wattles sidelines over so many seasons, his knowledge and experience so respected by coaching staff and players alike.
His ability to connect with players, ‘clicking with everyone’, and willingness to help in any way highlights him as a valuable asset to teams and the club.
Another great asset for Wattles is Neil’s consistent upbeat approach at games and preparation, always positive and encouraging despite the situation.
Neil Wilson is a quintessential rugby league volunteer, representing the most perfect or typical example of quality.
- Glyn Rees
