Mark Azzopardi

When Mark Azzopardi won the Whyalla Football League senior colts medal in 1972 by a whopping 10 vote margin he served notice that he was a player of the future. In 1973, Mark made his A grade debut with Central Whyalla after an impressive trial game at centre half forward. He kicked a goal early in his debut with possibly his first kick in A grade football.

Mark became a regular on the wing for Central with his electrifying pace and exquisite skills. He was a key member of the 1974 premiership team before being recruited by West Torrens in 1975. Mark was soon back with Centrals and played in the Roosters 1975 premiership before returning to West Torrens the next year. Mark played 20 league games for the Eagles and at least that many for their reserves over a five year period.

Mark returned to Central Whyalla in 1980 where he became one of the clubs most decorated players. He was a natural leader and led the Roosters for nine seasons from 1982-1987 and 1989-1991. It was during this time that Mark captained Whyalla on seven occasions from the thirty times he represented the combined side.

Mark was runner up for the Whyalla News medal twice and third on another occasion. He won three Central Whyalla best and fairest awards and played in five Central premierships, two as captain. The popular Whyalla butcher would eventually play 312 games for the Roosters. Mark was presented with Whyalla Football League life membership in 1983 and a year later Central Whyalla life membership. In honour of Mark’s contribution to football, the Azzopardi/Marron cup has been played between Central Whyalla and West Whyalla since 2008.