Ross Strudwick (no 7) in a match against Wests at Neumann Oval
Valleys’ president Dr Tom Dooley promised supporters things would be much better in 1976 after the proud foundation Brisbane Rugby League club finished with the wooden spoon the previous year.
The pain of finishing last cost coach Henry Holloway his job, despite the fact he had guided the club to six grand finals and four premiership wins between 1969 and 1974. The new man at the helm was club legend, Marty Scanlan who had just announced his retirement as a player.
Dr Dooley said Scanlan had the players motivated and there was optimism throughout the club things would be much better in 1976.
“I think we will win our share and qualify for the finals,” Dr Dooley said.
Test halfback, Ross Strudwick revealed he would be unavailable for much of the Woolies pre-season following knee surgery. He said he was optimistic about being available for round 1 of the Premiership, but had viewed the Woolies as a chance to strike up a combination with whoever was to replace Scanlan at five eighth. ‘Struddy’ said he would do everything possible to make an early return and had employed a personal trainer to help him with rehab.
There were no obvious specialist candidates, although Brisbane representative utility star, Ron Gurnett was more than comfortable in the number 6 jersey. Kev Rafferty was an off-season signing who had played five eighth with Redcliffe. Frank Longhurst, who played a number of positions in 1975, told Scanlan he was keen to play five eighth and Greg Jones, normally a winger, also put up his hand for the job.
Players to depart the club in the off-season included Russell Hughes (Penrith), Mike Rathbone (Redcliffe), John Abbott (Easts), Jeff Gill (Toowoomba Souths). Brisbane representative back, Norm Clarke announced his retirement, and was appointed a first-grade selector. Gains included centre Marc Svenson from Maryborough and Innisfail hooker, Robert Abbott, a brother of John.
State centre, Gerry Fitzpatrick was expected to captain the first grade side in the early rounds of the Woolies.
In Sydney new lighting was installed at Leichhardt Oval, home of the Balmain Tigers and venue for most matches in the knockout Amco Cup competition.
Former Test halfback, Barry Muir had been retained as Queensland coach for the annual inter-state series and a match against the yet to be determined English club champions.
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