Bob Withers
Bob Withers | |||
---|---|---|---|
Personal information | |||
Full name | Bob Withers | ||
Original team(s) | St. Peter Paul's | ||
Position(s) | Centreman | ||
Playing career1 | |||
Years | Club | Games (Goals) | |
1950–59 1960–67 |
Port Melbourne North Launceston |
140 140 | |
1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1967. |
Robert 'Bob' Withers is a former Australian rules footballer who played in Tasmania and for Port Melbourne, noted for his selection in the 1961 All-Australian team.
Withers was a regular member of the Port Melbourne side during the 1950s and represented the VFA in 1957, 1958 and 1959. He moved to Tasmania in 1960 and joined NTFA club North Launceston as captain-coach, steering the club to premierships in 1961 and 1963. In his first year at North Launceston he was selected to the Tasmanian interstate team and helped them to their maiden win over rivals Victoria. He represented Tasmania on 15 occasions in total and was an All-Australian at the 1961 Brisbane Carnival. Twice, in games against the VFA, Withers captained Tasmania and he won a Lefroy Medal in 1963.
His coaching career continued after he hanged up the boots and he was in charge of Launceston when they won the 1969 premiership. Withers also served as assistant coach of Essendon in 1970.