The legendary Billy Smith (26 Tests) became quite emotional at Shark Park on Sunday, 28 August. Billy was at the Shark's home ground to watch his grandson, Brendan Smith, take the field for the Sutherland-Loftus club in the Cronulla Junior League A-Grade Grand Final against the Gymea Gorillas. Playing in the second row, Brendan did well in his team's 28-16 victory.
It was the joint club's first A-Grade title since their formation 26 years ago and their first A-Grade Grand Final since their loss in 1991.
The Sutherland club was formed in 1912 and so celebrates 100 years next season. It merged with Loftus in 1985. Known as the "Gravediggers" for many years, because of the nearby Sutherland cemetery, Sutho has had some problems in fielding sides over recent years. Until last season, the club had not entered an A-Grade team for 12 years. Their last successful A-Grade Grand Final win was back in 1977.
During its long history many great players have played in their junior ranks. These include the great Norm Provan (18 Tests and 10 Grand Final wins in his 256 first grade matches with St. George), Peter Provan (1 Test), Steve Rogers ( 24 Tests), Henry Holloway ( 3 Tests), Steve Kneen (1978 Kangaroo), Bobby Bugden (2 Tests), Col Rasmussen, Chris Wellman, George Taylforth, Les Boyle, Brian Messiter, Arthur May, Luke MacDougall, Luke Stuart, Scott MacDougall, Denis Stapleton, Paul Taylor, Graham Sams and Geoff Smith (son of Billy).
Steve Kneen was the Sutherland coach in the 1991 Grand Final when the team lost a tight game to Como. Geoff Smith was a member of the 1991 Sutho Grand Final team.
Billy is slowly recovering from the stroke he suffered last year and his grandson's success was a great tonic for the former Test halfback.