Drop punt down memory lane

FOOTBALL legends do not get any larger than the six-foot-plus (185 cm) North Melbourne ruckman and former young Wonthaggi footballer Ron Fletcher.

Born April 1927 Ron played twenty-one games in the Victorian Football League from 1950 to 1951 debuting as a 24-year-old against Footscray.

Known for his skills on the field Ron Fletcher was an Australian rules footballer who made a significant contribution to the sport during his career.

Fletcher was a prominent figure in Australian football during his playing years passing away in 2011 aged 84 the much-loved husband of Wonthaggi women’s footballer Margaret (Peg) Fletcher (née Keltie).

Precious family photographs of the well-remembered footballer have only just recently come to light.

Wearing jumpers 34 and 36 for North Melbourne Ron’s talent was recognised early in his career when aged just 15 he won a trophy in 1942 presented by the Union Hall Committee for the Most

Improved Player in the Wonthaggi Football Association Season 1942.

Ron’s uncle Les Kew Ming who played for North Melbourne in the VFA once held the record for the world’s longest drop punt.

The Fletcher and Kew Ming families are fondly remembered as two local families that were not only skilled but genuinely loved their footy. 

If you have a family photo and a story you would like to share send it to news@sgst.com.au.