Michael Spalding

Over 100 years of history, records and results have been colated by Michael Spalding to make up this resource. The amount of time and effort he has dedicated show his true committment to the Ararat Football Club.

Michael 'Mick' Spalding is an Ararat Football Club icon. He joined the club after spending a year in the under 17's at Tatyoon. Progressing through reserves into the seniors, he became a fixture on the wing and in later years on the half back flank.

Mick was blessed with blistering pace that he used to great advantage. A serious shoulder injury led to a reconstruction of the joint, which meant that for a relatively tall winger, Mick was not a strong overhead mark.

Mick's placid nature often led to him being benched when the interchange players needed a run because the coaching panel knew that he would cop it without complaint. Never a tantrum, never asked for money, only ever asked if he could help. Mick's dedication to the club and to his sport, sadly seem to becoming part of a bygone era.

• Wing in 1986 Senior Premiership
• 1978, 1981, 1993 & 1994 Reserve Premierships
• Reserve Coach, winning 1994 Premiership
• Represented WFL in the VCFL Country Championships

Always a team player, undoubtedly one of Mick's proudest moments was when he was made a life member of his beloved 'Rats.

In addition to his footy Mick played cricket with the St Andrews Cricket Club as a fast bowling all-rounder and basketball with the legendary Panthers. I think he may have even shot a goal!!!!

Apart from his college years and one year spent teaching in Casterton (he travelled home to play during this time), Mick has always lived in Ararat. He is married to Netball club legend, Donna and has a gorgeous daughter, Dannielle. At the time of writing, Donna was expecting twins.

The Ararat Football Club is forever indebted to Mick and extends its untold gratitude to him.

Mick can be contacted by email at spaldom@netconnect.com.au