Wally Miller Memorial Service

Hundreds of people gathered at Norwood Oval on Wednesday, October 30 to tribute one of Norwood’s club Legends Wally Miller OAM.

Wally passed away on October 16, 2024 at the age of 88 following a life-long contribution to the Norwood Football Club and South Australian football.

Wally played 64 League matches for the Redlegs between 1958 and 1961, before his career was cut short due to injury. As a result he was later diagnosed with poliomyelitis.

While his playing career came to an end at just 24 years of age, Wally went on to devote himself to Australian Rules Football and in particular, to the Norwood Football Club.

Wally’s administration record and list of achievements is almost endless, but includes: playing a major part in the nationwide introduction of modified rules for juniors, and writing a book on the art of kicking. He was Norwood’s Promotions Officer in 1968 and 1969 and from 1970 to 1992 he was Secretary Manager/Football Director of the Norwood Football Club, and Match Committee/Selector (1974-1996).

During this period he oversaw the resurgence of the Norwood Football Club as a powerhouse of the SANFL, recording premierships in 1975, 1978, 1982, 1984 and 1997.

For the full tribute to Wally, click here

On Wednesday, Wally’s son Tony Miller, as well as Norwood greats Neil Balme, Phil Gallagher, Michael Taylor, Neil Craig, Michael Aish and John Wynne shared stories and paid tribute to the incredible man that was Walter Miller OAM.

If you would like to watch the replay of the Memorial service click the button below.

Rest in peace, Wally Miller – 11/10/1936 to 16/10/2024

Memorial Service Photo Gallery

Watch the Memorial Service video here

"Dad just got things done, with as little fuss as possible. He was just our Dad, his super human efforts weren't obvious to us at that time. He would never make his struggles apparent, that's not what Wal did. He was stoic, selfless, dedicated and proud. He was a bloody good Dad."

Wally's son, Tony Miller

"Wally Miller, what a human being. He knew more about footy than anyone, he was always ahead of his time. I have nothing but admiration and wonder for his resilience and drive. His legacy will be ageless. Wally was the one we went to for direction and advice. We love you Wally and will be sorely missed."

1982 & 1984 NFC Premiership Coach, Neil Balme

"It's difficult to encapsulate Wally's impact on the game. When I first met Wally he was committed to the redevelopment of Norwood becoming a football power. His contribution to the game spanned 67 years. He developed people, players, coaches and administrators, and these people went on to influence the game - Balme, Craig, Bob Hammond, Taylor, Aish, McIntosh, Wynne, Thomas and Rob Oatey."

Four-time NFC Premiership player, Phil Gallagher

"He spearheaded the development of Modified Rules for U10 competitions, a program endorsed by the SANFL and was later rebadged as AusKick and has become the flagship Junior Football Program throughout Australia. He was on a committee that developed Training Manuals and the original Level 1 Coaching Course. Everything he did needed to be for the betterment of the game."

Four-time NFC Premiership player, Phil Gallagher

"I was in awe of him and still am today. He had such a presence and we would listen and learn, he was the master. The influence he had on so many people at Norwood, and outside the club was amazing."

Norwood Legend Michael Taylor

"The visionary of Carmel Court, it was the envy of every club in Australia. Wally was a visionary before his time. He saw potential in someone who didn't see it themselves, and was prepared to back them in with support."

Norwood Hall of Famer, Neil Craig

"I am going to miss the phone calls, I am going to miss the sh*t coffee he used to make, I am going to miss the laughter and the banter. How lucky was I and we that he was in our lives."

Norwood Hall of Famer, Neil Craig

"Over 26 years as CEO he oversaw 300+ players and he had an impact on all of them. He was red and blue through and through. He lived and breathed the Redlegs motto 'Fortis in Procella, Strength in Adversity' nobody emphasized that more than he."

Norwood Legend, Michael Aish

"Premierships were the aim, but to Wally being a Norwood person meant the most."

Norwood Legend, Michael Aish

"There have been some greats of this football club, but you Wally will sit at the top of the list forever."

Norwood Legend, Michael Aish

"I came here for a weekend, met Wally and stayed 12 years. I found him to be the most loved man I have ever come across."

Norwood Hall of Famer, John Wynne