With number 8 on his back, the 90-year-old played 22 senior games in seasons 1956 and 1957, booting two goals and playing in the 1956 premiership team.
The versatile star played wherever renowned coach Norm Smith wanted him. “I played half-back, half-forward - wherever,” Sandral told The Free Press.
Twelve Demons added another chapter in Melbourne Football Club’s history books when they received life membership at the Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott Memorial Trophy “about a couple of Jim’s big drop punts from the MCG according to son Dennis.
For the Demon fans, premiership players Ken Emselle, Graeme Jacobs, Len Mann, Ken Melville, Ray and Brian Roet, Alan Rowarth, Barry Vagg, Athol Webb, Graham Wise and Michael Hibberd, as well as Sandral, were all honoured for their significant service to the red and the blue.
“Many have passed on,” Sandral said. “I’m still good mates with Athol Webb who lives at The Rock (NSW).
“It was a great night. I thanked them very much.”
About 1000 people attended last Friday’s special night which also included the club’s best and fairest award which went to onballer/forward Christina Petracca.
Sandral’s sons Dennis and Jim were proud of their Dad’s latest, prestigious award, particularly as it’s a first for a Corowa export to the club at the home of Australian Rules Football.
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