THE ERAS
Our History
 |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |
 |  |
1908 - 1919
The foundation years of the Balmain ‘Tigers’ bring controversy, hardship and glory, with a forfeit in 1909 and start of World War 1, before the breakthrough success in 1915 as undefeated premiers. The team from Birchgrove win four premierships in five seasons as the Watersiders abound in stars of the calibre of ‘Pony’ Halloway, Bill Kelly and Jimmy Craig.
1920 - 1929
The ‘Roaring Twenties’ kick off with further success in 1920, with the win against arch rivals Souths in the 1924 final a highlight of the decade. These Tigers were truly a champion side with ‘Whip’ Latta, ‘Chook’ Fraser and ‘Latchem’ Robinson leading from the front.
1930 - 1939
The Depression Years herald in change, with Balmain playing the final game at ‘The Grove’ in 1933. A more central location was needed to halt flagging attendances and Leichhardt Oval became our home. Once again, the club was on the rise - runners-up in 1936, the Tigers won a further premiership title in 1939 coached by ‘old boy’ Bill Kelly and captained by brilliant winger Sid Goodwin.
1940 - 1949
The War Years produce a second ‘golden era’ for the Tigers, with titles in 1944, 1946 and 1947 as well as finishing runners-up in 1945 and 1948. From 1941 through to 1949 the Tigers were never outside the top four. Coached by ‘Latchem’ Robinson featuring such notable players as Tommy Bourke, Joe Jorgenson, Pat Devery and Arthur Patton, the ‘back and golds’ are unstoppable.
1950 - 1959
Kicking off the decade, Balmain were on track to win the 1950 premiership but it wasn’t meant to be. The ensuing years saw fortunes fluctuate with a host of great players emerging from the Tigers ranks. And despite the best efforts of ‘Golden Boots’ Keith Barnes in the late 1950s, highlighted by a grand final appearance in 1956, premiership success proved elusive.
1960 - 1969
Balmain throw down the challenge to the great St George club with grand final appearances in 1964 and 1966. Three years later, the Tigers defeat South Sydney on a day for the ages in the 1969 grand final under the brilliant coaching of another ‘old boy’ from the 1940s and ‘50s, Leo Nosworthy, and superbly led by Peter Provan.
1970 - 1979
Unable to replicate their premiership success, Balmain face challenges in the return to the top with player retirements and transfers. But change was afoot; Leichhardt Oval was revamped, altering the direction of the ground from east-west to north-south, lighting towers were installed and a new grandstand built. The club enjoyed success in both the midweek Cup and the pre-season competitions but premiership glory remains the goal.
1980 - 1989
An exciting decade for the Tigers with regular semi-final appearances and midweek and pre-season success. Under the watchful eye of Club President Keith Barnes, the nucleus of a Balmain champion team remains competitive. Despite heart-breaking losses in the 1988 and 1989 grand finals, the deeds of Pearce, Elias, Jack, Roach and Sironen regularly filled the old ground to capacity.
1990 - 1999
With our last generation of club greats coming to the end of their careers, Balmain were unable to maintain a similar level of success. When the code was under attack from external forces, the club stayed loyal to the ARL – our fans never stopped dreaming and always displayed our fighting Tiger spirit!
OUR ARCHIVES
