Visit to Dale Puren

Ron Coote, Bob McCarthy, Alan Webb and Warren Thompson recently visited Dale and his lovely wife Dorothy at their Maroubra home. 
 
Dale has had a tough time with his health and is still having chemo three times a week. With a great positive attitude, the former flying wingman is looking forward to getting the treatment over with and enjoying life with his wonderful family.

Image (L to R) Warren Thompson, Ron Coote, Dorothy & Dale Puren and Bob McCarthy

All the visitors that went to see Dale were former South Sydney Juniors and have memories of the speedster scoring tries for South Sydney.
 
Dale played for the Rabbitohs from 1955-1959 and was a member of the incredible Jack Rayner- coached 1955 Premiership team that defeated Newtown 12 – 11 after having to win their final eleven games to qualify for the grand final. Another very fast wingman, Ian Moir was on the other wing that day.
 
In 1958 a footrace was held prior to the Test Match between Australia and France at the SCG. Ian Moir won from Ken Irvine and Dale Puren was third. There was not much grass between them which will give readers an idea how quick these players were in football boots. Ken Irvine later held the World Professional 100 yards record of 9.3 seconds running on grass at Dubbo NSW.  
 
As a Western Suburbs junior, Dale played for the Magpies from 1952-54 before going to Souths where he played from 1955 – 1959.
 
Scoring 30 tries and kicking 27 goals, he finished his played career with North Sydney in 1961. 
 
Bobby McCarthy and Dale’s wife Dorothy reminisced about the old days when they lived near each other in Redfern. Dorothy had us laughing when she recalled a story of Dale coming for dinner while they were courting. Dale had played in a winning Western Suburbs team against the Rabbitohs and Dorothy’s father, a staunch South’s man, flatly refused to speak with Dale.
 
Ron, Bob, Alan and Warren thoroughly enjoyed the visit and wished Dale all the best with his recovery. Ron and Bob suggested a visit to Redfern Oval to see the memorabilia and meet the players when he is ready. Dale was pleased to receive a Men of League polo shirt and cap and a Souths cap. 
 
Warren Thompson – Sydney Metro Welfare Officer