Austin Sheath lived in Wahroonga and was a pharmacist at Central Station in Sydney. He was also a friend of Don Allen, the first President of the Association. Austin became involved in football when his sons Mark and Rod played with the Prouille Club. Prouille FC was established in 1965, and Austin was one of the founding members of the club. Rod, his son, was a member of the Under 8’s Ku-ring-gai and District Soccer Association (KDSA) Representative side that was coached by fellow Life Member Max Wharton. Under Max’s coaching, the team won the State Championship in 1980. This was the first success of a Ku-ring-gai Representative side.
Austin became involved with the running of the Ku-ring-gai and District Soccer Association in an official capacity when he became Secretary in 1968. This is a position he held until the end of the 1970 season when fellow Life Member Max Wharton took on the role for the 197 season.
It was during his time as Secretary of the Association that Bobby Charlton came and conducted a clinic. Bev Health would show Norma, Bobby’s wife, around Sydney while Austin and Bobby were at the clinic.
Austin Sheath is the gentleman standing behind Bobby Charlton. Bobby’s wife Norma is on Bobby’s left and Austin’s wife Bev is on Bobby’s right. Fellow Life members Judy and Rod Woods are standing to Austin’s right. Brian Pennington (Junior VP of KDSA 1970 to 1971) and his wife are sitting next to Norma.
Austin Sheath represented Ku-ring-gai and District Soccer Association at meetings of the NSW Amateur Soccer Federation. The 1971 Annual Report reports that both Austin and Max Wharton represented the KDSA at all meetings of the NSWASF. Quite an achievement and commitment.
Austin was involved with the Senior Representative side known as Artarmon/Ku-ring-gai. They competed in the NSWASF Division 2 competition in the early 70’s. In 1971 at a meeting of players and committee members, it was resolved that the Club should take steps to change the name to Ku-ring-gai Soccer Club (KSC) and to seek a permanent home ground within the KDSA’s area. The name change occurred in 1972.
Austin was a committee member on the KDSA for several years and was involved with Ku-ring-gai Soccer Club Limited as a Board Member. He was one of the members who was involved with the purchase of premises for the KSC. Austin was President of the Board until late 1973 when he moved to Coffs Harbour.
Austin Sheath was made a Life Member of the Association in 1973. Austin passed away on 4th of June 2010. We thank Austin for his tireless work and contribution to football within our Association.