Vale – Michael ‘Artie’ Coleman

The Club is saddened to share the sudden passing of a club stalwart Michael ‘Artie’ Coleman.

Mike first played in the under-18s in 1971 and 1972 and then progressed to our senior grades where he played for many years. He amassed over 100 first grade games and represented the state in under-21s.

He played in numerous grand finals and was a premiership player in 1971 (u18s), 1973 and 1981 (reserve grade), and our infamous underdog first grade premiership in 1983.

Michael was the Club treasurer and accountant for over 40 years, and a key driver of the 1993 relocation from Windsor Park to our current home facility in Manning.

He established our Supporters Club over 35 years ago and ran it up until his passing.

He was a Western Australian Rugby League (WARL) board member for many years and was awarded Life Membership of both South Perth Rugby League and WARL.

It is hard to not overstate the influence Michael has had on SPRL, both on and off the field, and in our strong position as a foundation Club.

His DNA is entwined with everything that we do.

May he rest in peace.