In conjunction with this event, the Bulldogs Forever Foundation will launch The Bulldog Heritage Historical Players Register, a book which features the stories of ninety players of the Footscray/Western Bulldogs Football Club.
The stories come from players who played for the Club and wore the Red, White and Blue jumper at under 19, reserve or senior level. All of the stories are unique but together they combine to give readers an understanding of what it was like to be part of the Club across the eras.
This week we preview the era of 1940 - 1950 with some grabs from some of the greats:
CHARLIE SUTTON - I treated grand final day as a normal day. There was a good atmosphere in the rooms before the game. We were keyed up to do the job against Melbourne. They all had their instructions. I wanted them to play football. I took on the heavy stuff. I told the boys to shop early and avoid the rush.
LIONEL RYAN - My desire to be a League footballer began when I was four. My dad bought me a proper leather half size football. I can remember waking on my fourth birthday and feeling and smelling this lovely leather football.
DAVE BRYDEN - I always played it hard but fair, well some of the time I would step over the line, in fact now that I recall, many a time.
HARVEY STEVENS - I was destined to play for Footscray. When I was born on 8th August, 1930, my parents lived in Gordon Street, right opposite the Western Oval. My father was captain of Footscray at that time.
Click here to be a part of this event and commemorate those that have made significant contributions to our great Club.
This book is a must read, not only for all Bulldogs supporters, but for all who are interested in Australian Football. To pre-order your copy, click here.
