History
In 1951 a raw young recruit from Manjimup joined Swan Districts and went on to win the inaugural R.A. Newbey Trophy as the best first year player. This young man went on to play 122 league games for Swans, but it was to be more than 30 years later that this young man went on to enjoy his greatest thrill in league football.
After serving terms as club treasurer from 1957 to 1960 and secretary from 1966 to 1970 he was elected to president in 1976. He was also responsible for recruiting John Todd to help bring Swans back to being a force in West Australian football.
Therefore it was a proud moment for A.A. (John) Cooper when he stepped out onto the dais at Subiaco Oval on Grand Final day September 18, 1982 to share the glory of breaking a 19 year drought of premierships.
That day also marked the end of John Cooper's official association with the Club when he vacated the president's chair to make way for another club champion.....Bill Walker.
FOR THE RECORD
- 122 Games 1951-58
- Life Member 1969
- National Football League - Certificate of Merit 1993
- Order of Australia 2000
- WAFL/WAFC Life Member 1981
- Club President 1976 - 1982
- Club Vice President 1967 - 1970
- Club Treasurer 1957 - 1960
