History of the Magarey Medal

The Story of the Magarey Medal

William Ashley Magarey was born on January 30th, 1868 in a house in Wellington Square, North Adelaide. He attended St Peters College from 1880-1884 and by the age of twenty was a lawyer ready to begin practice.

Whilst a student at ‘Saints’, Magarey played a number of sports, but never seriously played football either during his school years or upon leaving school. Although he stood 6’3” in height and possessed ample athletic ability, he opted to become involved in football administration.

In the mid 1890’s William Ashley Magarey’s life revolved around Law, writing, music and sports administration.

In 1897 he became the Chairman of the South Australian Football Association, at which time he was eager to stamp out rough play and assist in gaining more respect for umpires.

In 1898 Magarey instituted the award of a Medal to South Australia’s fairest and most brilliant player. The first recipient of the coveted Magarey Medal award was Norwood’s Alby Green.

William Magarey married Guli Hack in 1910: they did not have children.

William Magarey passed away on October 18th, 1929, aged 61 years.