CLUB HISTORY
In the Beginning: The History of Asquith Magpies
The proud history of the Asquith Magpies Rugby League Club dates back to 1953, when we first entered a team in the North Sydney District Junior Rugby League A Grade Competition. While our roots stretch back even further, this marked the official beginning of a club that would grow to become a cornerstone of the local sporting community.
Originally known as the Asquith Sports Club, we supported a variety of sports including netball, cricket, and little nippers, reflecting our commitment to community and active lifestyles.
By the mid-1960s, the club experienced rapid growth in rugby league participation. With our entry into the NSWRL Second Division Competition and a bold vision of one day competing at the highest levels of the game, the need for sustainable funding became clear.
In 1968, we took a major step forward by registering as a company — Asquith Rugby League Club Limited — with the goal of establishing a licensed club to support our ambitions.
After years of dedication and hard work, that dream became a reality in 1979, when we proudly opened the doors to our licensed club, laying the foundation for future generations of Magpies.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR HISTORY
On 7 June 2003, the Asquith Magpies proudly celebrated 50 years of rugby league excellence with a special event titled “Where the Stars Meet Under the Stars.” This milestone occasion marked the launch of a commemorative book written by former Asquith player and journalist Adam Hawse, capturing the spirit, stories, and legacy of the club.
As part of the celebration, the club unveiled what will forever be known as The Asquith All Stars — a prestigious team honouring the greatest players in our club’s history. The All Stars lineup included 13 players, 6 reserves, a Coach, and a Manager, all selected for their outstanding contributions to Asquith’s A Grade legacy.
To ensure fairness and authenticity, the Board appointed a panel of Selectors — all former A Grade players themselves — including Gary Hayes, Graham Jordison, Brian Fulmer, Bob Lennox, and Dave Mills. The selection criteria focused solely on performances in A Grade for Asquith, not achievements with other clubs or at the NRL level.
Performances in the NSWRL Second Division (1970–1973) were only considered if the player:
- Graduated to Second Division as a local Asquith junior, or
- Returned to play A Grade for Asquith after the Second Division era ended.
This tribute stands as a testament to the talent, loyalty, and community spirit that have defined the Asquith Magpies for generations.
The Asquith All Stars:
Fullback – Phil Roberts
Wingers – Don Prothero & Mick Coote
Centres – Les Wicks & John Grew
Five-Eighth – Michael Casey
Halfback – Kevin Wilson
Lock – Tony Trent
Second Row – Michael Bovis & John Pollard
Front Row – Peter Tyquin (Captain) Noel Ryan
Hooker – Cecil Fulmer
Reserves – Glenn Boatswain, Gordon West, Greg Pollard, Rodney Bright, Chris Thompson & Gary Hayes
Coach – Harold Blinkhorn
Manager – Graham Jordison
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