Bill Perkins
Richmond · “Polly”
AFL career
148 games0 goals
- Debut
- R9 1940 v ESS22 June 1940
- Most recent
- R16 1949 v ESS6 Aug 1949
Stats
Bio
Bill "Polly" Perkins was a tenacious defender who became a cult figure at Richmond during the club’s golden era in the 1940s. Originally born in Leicester, England, he was recruited from Noble Park and quickly established himself as a permanent fixture in the Tigers' backline. A fearless competitor who often played across the half-back line, Perkins was a key member of the 1943 Premiership side and the team that reached the Grand Final the following year, earning a reputation as one of the most reliable backmen in the VFL.
Known for his unwavering commitment to the contest rather than his disposal, Perkins played with a defensive-first mindset that saw him go his entire 148-game career without kicking a goal. His playstyle was defined by grit and determination, qualities formally recognised when he won the club's "Most Determined" award in both 1943 and 1948. He represented Victoria in state football and was awarded life membership in his final season, eventually leaving Punt Road to coach Brighton in the VFA.
Profile
- Born
- 10 Feb 1920
- Died
- 30 May 2009 (aged 89y 109d)
- Birthplace
- England, United Kingdom
- Height
- 185 cm
- Weight
- 83 kg
Teams
Honours
- Premiership1943
Bio
1 revisionBill "Polly" Perkins was a tenacious defender who became a cult figure at Richmond during the club’s golden era in the 1940s. Originally born in Leicester, England, he was recruited from Noble Park and quickly established himself as a permanent fixture in the Tigers' backline. A fearless competitor who often played across the half-back line, Perkins was a key member of the 1943 Premiership side and the team that reached the Grand Final the following year, earning a reputation as one of the most reliable backmen in the VFL.
Known for his unwavering commitment to the contest rather than his disposal, Perkins played with a defensive-first mindset that saw him go his entire 148-game career without kicking a goal. His playstyle was defined by grit and determination, qualities formally recognised when he won the club's "Most Determined" award in both 1943 and 1948. He represented Victoria in state football and was awarded life membership in his final season, eventually leaving Punt Road to coach Brighton in the VFA.