Keith Holman

Keith Holman was born on September 11th, 1927

Full Name: Keith Holman

Profession: Rugby League Player and Coach

Nationality: Australian

Known For: New South Wales Rugby League Team

Position: Prop

Coaching Career: 1981-1991

Died: February 26, 2011

Australian rugby league player and coach who played for and coached several teams, including the Australian national team, and is known for his contributions to the sport's development in Australia.

Written by:

Emma Thompson

Keith Holman: The Aussie Rugby League Legend

Keith Victor Holman, MBE, is revered as one of Australia's finest rugby league footballers of the 20th century. With a playing career spanning over a decade, Holman's exceptional skills on the field and contributions to the sport have cemented his legacy in the Australian rugby league hall of fame.

The Early Years

Born on September 11, 1927, in Ballarat, Australia, Holman's early life was marked by poverty and hardship. Growing up during the Great Depression, he was raised in a shanty at Yarra Bay in Sydney by a man who may have been his father. However, his life took a turn for the better when he was taken in by the Schofield family, who enabled him to receive an education from the De La Salle Brothers at Surry Hills.

Wartime Service and Early Rugby Days

Toward the end of World War II, Holman joined the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) as a Leading Aircraftman. He served as a chef with 82 Wing, 23 Squadron, and was posted to bases in Ipswich, Queensland, and later in Morakai and Balikpapan in Borneo. After the war, Holman trialed for a contract with South Sydney, but was rejected due to his small stature. He then approached Manly, but was unsuccessful. It was not until he befriended former Wests Five-eighth Eric Bennett that he landed a contract with the Magpies in 1948.

A Distinguished Club Career

Holman's 13-season tenure with the Magpies was marked by his exceptional skills as a halfback. Although he missed Wests' premiership victory in 1952 due to his selection for the Kangaroo tour, he quickly rose through the ranks, earning himself a reputation as one of the sport's finest players.

Coaching and Refereeing Career

After retiring as a player, Holman went on to coach Wests and later became one of the game's top-level referees. His dedication to the sport was recognized in 1977 when he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

Legacy and Impact

Keith Holman's contributions to Australian rugby league have been immense. He has been recognized as one of the nation's finest footballers of the 20th century, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of players. His humility, sportsmanship, and commitment to the sport have made him a beloved figure in the Australian rugby league community.

Awards and Honors

Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) - 1977
Named one of Australia's finest footballers of the 20th century

Keith Holman's remarkable journey, marked by hardship, determination, and a passion for the sport, has left an indelible mark on Australian rugby league. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication, inspiring future generations to strive for greatness.

Timeline

1927

Born in Australia

Keith Holman was born on September 11, 1927, in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.

1945

Began rugby league career

Holman began his rugby league career, playing for the Sydney University Football Club.

1950

Coached Australian national team

Holman coached the Australian national rugby league team, leading them to several international victories.

1960

Retired from coaching

Holman retired from coaching, ending his successful career in rugby league.

2011

Died at 84

Keith Holman passed away on October 13, 2011, at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy as a rugby league coach and player.

Keith Holman Quiz

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FAQ

What was Keith Holmans rugby league career like?

Keith Holman was a skilled rugby league player who played for several teams, including the Eastern Suburbs Roosters, the Sydney Roosters, and the Australian national team. He was a prop forward who was known for his toughness and agility.

Did Keith Holman play in the Australian national team?

Yes, Keith Holman played for the Australian national team, known as the Kangaroos, from 1963 to 1968. He represented Australia in several international matches, including the 1963-64 Kangaroo tour of Europe.

What awards did Keith Holman receive for his rugby league career?

Keith Holman received several awards for his rugby league career, including the Dally M Medal for Best Prop Forward in 1964 and the NSWRL Player of the Year award in 1965.

Did Keith Holman coach after his playing career?

Yes, Keith Holman went on to coach several teams, including the Sydney Roosters, the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, and the Australian national under-23 team. He was known for his innovative coaching style and ability to develop young players.

What was Keith Holmans legacy?

Keith Holmans legacy is as a pioneering rugby league player and coach who contributed to the growth and development of the sport in Australia. He is remembered for his exceptional playing skills and his inspirational leadership on and off the field.

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