Wal Hopkins is a long term sideline spectator and has supported Footscray Hockey club for over 50 years. Wal’s first year involved at our club was when son Neville Hopkins began his hockey journey in 1965. Daughter Sue Papadikis (nee Hopkins) started in 1966 followed by son Greg Hopkins (life member) in 1971. Wal held the club’s Patron position in the 80’s and would ferry his children all around Melbourne to play their game of passion.
Through his 3 (out of 4) children who played hockey, grandchildren Dean, Ryan, Lauren and Georgia, daughter in-law Lynda Thomas and son in-law Con Papadakis (who was dragged in by Alby Speed when a men’s team was short), Wal’s family has amassed over 4100 games.
Recently Wal celbrated his 100th birthday and Footscray Hockey Club would like to wish Wal a huge congratulations for this magnificnet achievement, raising a terrific family with his beloved Evelyn who passed away 7 years ago, his life long personal achivements and for being bulldog through and through.
The Maribyrnong Messenger wrote a lovely piece on his life.
Hip hip horray!
