Farewell To Former Club Champion - Owen Martin

It is with considerable sadness that we inform our readers of the passing of one of our past champions, Mr. Owen Martin, aged 91 years.

Owen began his career here at Roosterland in 1934 - 41 and from 1945 - 46. The normal competition, as we know it, was suspended during the years 1942, 43 and 44, because of the Second World War. During those three suspended years Owen played for the combined Norwood - North team and was vice-captain of the 1943 combined Premiership team and was captain of the Premiership team in 1944.

He played a total of 130 official games for the Roosters, kicking 30 goals. Owen Martin was awarded the Club's best backman player in seasons 1936, 37, 39, 40 and 45. He was awarded the best placed player trophy in 1941 and was North Adelaide vice-captain in season 1941. In 1937 Owen was third in the Magarey Medal count and also won the prestigious Advertiser Player of the Year Award. Owen represented South Australia on three occasions.

The below image shows Owen Martin taking one of his screamers against Norwood for which he was so renowned.

Owen Martin was a lovely man and a great North Adelaide player and he will be very fondly remembered by everyone at Roosterland. It would be remiss not to mention here that Owen's son, Maurie, also played League football for the Roosters in the mid - late sixties.

Farewell Owen Martin, a great Rooster footballer.

Footnote....the style of guernsey worn by Owen Martin in this photo was worn by our Club players in seasons 1937 and 1938.