Graham Farmer facts for kids
Graham Vivian "Polly" Farmer was a truly amazing Australian rules football player and coach. He was born on March 10, 1935, and passed away on August 14, 2019, at the age of 84. Polly Farmer is remembered as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
He was especially known for his skill as a handballer. This means he was very good at hitting the ball with his open hand to pass it to teammates. He also played as a ruckman, which is a tall player who tries to tap the ball down to teammates after a bounce or throw-in.
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Polly Farmer's Football Journey
Polly Farmer started his senior football career with the East Perth Football Club in 1953. He quickly became a star player. His talent was so great that he later moved to Victoria to play in the top league.
Playing for Geelong
In 1962, Polly Farmer joined the Geelong Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL). This was the biggest football league in Australia at the time. He played 101 games for Geelong and was a key part of their success. He even captained the team.
Returning Home
After his time in Victoria, Polly Farmer returned to his home state of Western Australia. In 1968, he became the captain and coach of the West Perth Football Club. He continued to show his leadership and skill both on and off the field.
Later Life
In 1999, Polly Farmer was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. This is a serious illness that affects memory and thinking. He passed away from this illness on August 14, 2019, at Fiona Stanley Hospital in Murdoch, Western Australia. His legacy as a pioneering player and a true legend of Australian rules football lives on.
Images for kids
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Farmer in October 1966 as captain of Geelong, shaking hands with government minister and former cycling champion Hubert Opperman as his teammates look on
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St Georges Terrace bronze tablet
