THE Ararat Football Club is preparing to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the 1975 Wimmera Football League premiership with a reunion next month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Members of the triumphant team will return to Alexandra Oval on Saturday, June 13 to mark the occasion, with a two course lunch to commence at 1pm.
The event has been organised by 1975 captain-coach Wilf Dickeson, who said he was looking forward to meeting up with old team mates to reminisce about the 30-point grand final victory over arch rival Stawell.
"I think it is good to get together on anniversaries like this, to recall some of the memories both on field and off field," Dickeson said.
"You strive, train and work so hard throughout the year for that one objective and to achieve it gives you a special sensation of togetherness and camaraderie."
Dickeson said the 1975 decider was 'a classic come from behind win' for the Rats, who trailed the Warriors by 22 points heading into the final quarter.
"I think the two most remarkable things about the year were the endeavour and dedication of the players to training," he said.
"Our fitness in particular showed in the last couple of finals, we played Dimboola in the qualifying final and kicked nine unanswered goals in the final quarter to win that game.
"In the grand final we found ourselves behind again at three-quarter-time and we kicked 9.5 to 1.1 to get in front and win it."
Dickeson said he has been able to get in touch with almost all living members of the 1975 playing squad, with the exception of three.
John Seare, John Quinlivan and Michael Robinson are the players who Dickeson hasn't been able to contact.
Dickeson said if anyone knows how to get in touch with these men, they should contact either The Ararat Advertiser on 5352 2442 or Gary Todd on 5352 4984.