Honoured … Sunshine United Cricket Club president Henry Popinski, left, with Dean McGrath and vice-president Mark Dalrymple celebrate the naming of the Norm McGrath pavillion. 60376
By Natalie Gallenti
The reserve at Selwyn Park in Albion will now feature the Norm McGrath Pavilion, nine years after the passing of the club’s revered stalwart.
Proud son Dean said his father would have been humbled by the tribute.
“My dad was a humble man and he didn’t look for accolades. He would think what’s all the fuss about. But now his legacy will live on forever,” Mr McGrath said.
A local icon, Norm was one of the club’s founding fathers and was captain-coach, president and committee member throughout his illustrious cricketing career.
He was made a life member in 1960 and while his son admits his father was not so active in the cricket club in his latter years; his passion could never be questioned.
“He loved the club and it meant everything to him. We’re a very successful club because of the active people in it. There are lots of longstanding members and everyone’s work ethic is unbelievable.
Club president Henry Popinski said the club had lobbied the council for the past year and was delighted with the outcome.
“It’s very positive for the club as it recognises the work of Norm. He was our founding father and without him we would not be the club it is today,” Mr Popinski said.
And the McGrath family tradition continues with Dean playing in his 42nd year and his teenage sons also playing for the club.
“I’ll stay here for life. That’s what this club is all about.
“We would never change to another team. It’s about more than playing cricket.”
