Former Greats - John Quinlan /

John Quinlan

John Quinlan was a part of Easts from its inception in 1908 as a committeeman, when he brought his club Oakleigh into the fold, until his ultimate retirement from the Club in 1944. He led Easts for over 35 years, despite only having the title of Club Secretary for 17. “He was one of rugby league’s most popular personalities and one of its keenest and most astute administrators”, wrote ‘Rugby League News’ upon his death in 1958.

Under his leadership, the Club won eight First Grade titles, whilst a ninth was won the year after his retirement in 1945. Included in those titles were two hat-tricks -- in 1911-1913 and 1935-1937 -- featuring two of the greatest teams in the game’s history. He helped guide the Club through two World Wars and the Great Depression and was one of two Club delegates to the NSWRL general committee from 1909 to 1944.

Whenever there was a function associated with the Football Club – be it a benefit night, presentation dinner, charity game, farewell for a Club legend or worthy servant who was heading elsewhere – he always seemed to be the organiser. Just as he was for Kangaroo re-unions, having co-managed the 1911/12 touring squad to Europe.

During Quinlan’s tenure the Roosters junior league grew to be the largest in the NSWRL, which was critical under the residential requirements of the period. John Quinlan was a man of the highest principles whose leadership was critical in building the Club to what it is today.

Trivia: John Quinlan’s sister, Mary, was the mother of Charlie Steel (Rooster No. 120). Steel was married to Lizzie, sister of 1913 Premiership centre and Kangaroo Bob Tidyman (Rooster No. 65) and was the brother of 1923 Premiership and NSW winger Les Steel (Rooster No. 129). Charlie Steel was also the father of the man who preceded Nick Politis as Roosters Chairman, Keith Steel.