Charles ‘Redwing’ Perry

Charles Perry only played 58 games for Norwood but left an impression that has lasted for more than a century. Charles first played for Norwood in 1909 and become a crowd favourite through his athletic ability and scrupulous fair play. He was given the name of ‘Redwing’ due in part to his flaming red hair and also to the ballad of the same name that was very popular at the time.

Around the time of his league debut with Norwood, Charles became a fully ordained Methodist minister. Being a man of the cloth only enhanced his popularity with the Norwood supporters. In 1914, Charles took charge of the Methodist Church in Waikerie and played football for the local club. He had previously been posted at Tailem Bend in 1913 and managed to continue with Norwood but Waikerie was too far away.

Charles returned to Norwood in 1915 and was involved in a three way tie for the Magarey Medal but lost on a count back. He was posthumously awarded a medal when the eligibility criteria was altered in 1998.

Charles served in Europe as a chaplain in WWI and upon his return played the 1920 season with Norwood before retiring. He would later continue as the chaplain at Prince Alfred College while serving on the committees of the Norwood Football Club and the South Australian Football League.

In 1923, Charles was transferred by the Methodist Church to Crystal Brook and was immediately installed as coach of the local team. Charles brought a new professionalism to Crystal Brook and led them into a grand final against Jamestown. Jamestown had been in front most of the day and was still leading late in the game. In front of 1700 screaming supporters at the Jamestown oval, Charles kicked a long ball into the goal square that was marked by a Jamestown defender. As the clearing kick came back, Charles soared high over the pack to pull down a mark. He chose to take a place kick and from 60 yards out kicked the goal. The final bell rang seconds later and Crystal Brook were the 1923 Northern Areas premiers. Charles was posted to Wirrulla in 1924 and it seems had very little to do with football in his time there.

Charles moved to Clare in 1926 and due to a late arrival and some health problems did not become involved in football in an official capacity. However, he did help out at South Clare late in the season and in 1927 he became their captain coach. Aged 39, Charles did not get much of the ball but when he did, he moved it with skill and efficiency leading South Clare to the 1927 premiership. In 1928, Charles took up umpiring and was seen as fair and impartial. In 1937 Charles transferred from Adelaide to Port Lincoln and was appointed coach of the Waybacks and continued in that job again in 1938. Upon returning to Adelaide in 1940, he was appointed to the umpire’s board.

One of his many football highlights in a long career occurred during WWI when he served in Europe as a chaplain. Charles captained the Combined Training Units AIF team against the Third Australian Divisional Unit in an exhibition match played in London in 1916. The match was played at the ‘Queens Club’ in front of 3000 spectators, which included the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) and the King Manuel II of Portugal. This was believed to be the first ever official Australian Rules football match played outside of Australia.