Heroes of Yesterday, Interview 1 - 14 February 2016 - Bruce Clark
Do you remember your first game in first grade, and what were the highlights and lowlights?
My first First Grade game was against Souths in 1979 & it was a great side with Dallas, Cooper, Boyd, Grady, Tommy & many other greats. It was the Face slapping that opened my Eyes. I wish I could put it in print the Experience BUT
As a child what is your most memorable experience of Rugby League?
I played Soccer until I was 17 But played school boys Rugby League playing HOOKER. In Year 5 our school won the Canterbury Knock out and again in year 6 winning it again and getting beaten by a Catholic College in the final on the SCG. My School had three students making the zone for the NSW Titles, myself as a HOOKER, the front rower & half back.
Did you collect footy cards as kid
CARDS, I didn't collect, BUT having 7 Daughters 1 son & 11 Grandchildren they are starting to collect my Cards
Who was your footballing hero, as a child?
Living in Canterbury my Hero's were Neville Hornry and Les Johns
Who was your most respected rival?
Kevin Ward, Manly and Great Britain (Castleford) front rower, incredibly tough
What was your highlight of playing First Grade football?
Playing Grade Football I have meet some Great mate's from West & opposition teams, and memories still get spoken over many a Beer.
When did you know it was time to give the game away?
After 9 years at West and then a stint in England The old knees could not take it anymore, I finished up on the Central Coast having a Season with UNINA, That finished me.
What followed after football?
Relaxing at Lake Macquarie with my Beautiful wife and children
How has the game changed since your playing days?
I think the game has changed, there should be no under 20's competition, instead make it an Under 23's competition with 5 older players in the side to Teach them the game. Drop the Replacement rules to 6 & let the BIG GUYS get fatigued so the little Guys can open the game up and make it more spectacular.
What’s your favourite restaurant?
Too many Great Restaurants, BUT I do have great times at the Bay Hotel Motel in Bonnels Bay
What are your hobbies
I'm enjoying spending time with my Children and Grandchildren. I also love a game of Golf and a Punt on Saturday afternoon
Did you keep a scrap book?
SCRAP BOOKS, My mother collected everything I have plenty that the children enjoy and Laugh at