VALE – Bill Vrolyks OAM
Football NSW was saddened to hear the news of the unfortunate passing of Bill Vrolyks, a man that first implemented the coaching structure in NSW.
Born in Holland, Bill Vrolyks emigrated to Australia in 1945 with the Dutch Air Force.
Helping start up the Dutch-Sydney Austral club, Vrolyks transferred to Leichhardt Annandale for a total of 510 first grade matches, playing alongside legendary Australian footballer Joe Marston.
He helped implement the first coaching structure in NSW and travelled 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, coached NSW and state youth teams and spent 50 years in the sport.
He was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 1988 and was inducted into the Football Australia Hall of Fame in 2001.
In 2000 Bill was honoured not only for his football service but for his volunteer work associated with “Meal on Wheels”, with the Torch bearing duties around The Entrance as part of the Torch Relay for the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.
Bill’s presence was immense in the Central Coast where he continued to promote his amazing work for the sport.
Football NSW would like to pass on its sincere condolences to the Vrolyks Family, may he rest in heavenly peace.
