Influential Corowa Rutherglen midfielder of the late 90s, early 2000s Carl Dickins was honoured with entry to the Ovens and Murray Football Netball League Hall of Fame last Wednesday.
Carl Dickins, a duel best and fairest winner and multiple Premiership player for the Roos might not have the longest CV in Ovens and Murray history but his induction into the O&M Hall of Fame last Wednesday will undoubtedly go down as one of his greatest achievements.
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Described by many as “tough as nails,” Dickins was an electrifying player — classy by foot, clean by hand, and consistently influential.
He was a standout in a star-studded Corowa Rutherglen midfield, often bringing out the best in those around him.
The 2003 premiership captain and Club Co-President Beau Longmire once described him as “the most respected footballer during his time at Corowa.”
Dickins truly hit his peak between 1998 and 2003, winning Best and Fairest awards in 1998 and 2000, and playing an instrumental role in a golden era for the Roos.
Dickins went head-to-head with some of the league’s all-time greats — including Wangaratta Rovers legend Robbie Walker and Albury champion Tim Scott, whom he rates among the toughest opponents he ever faced.
He was a key figure in the club’s remarkable 2000 drought breaking premiership side — a team that stormed through the season with 20 wins and just one loss.
In a record-breaking grand final against North Albury, Dickins gathered 34 disposals in a dominant display. Yet even that effort was overshadowed by a forward-line masterclass from Damien Houlihan (10 goals) and Scott Thomson (7 goals).
Dickins has always held the utmost respect for 300-game veteran and dual premiership teammate Brendan Eyers, stating: “one of the reasons I’m up here is because of Brendan. We had really good communication.”
That 1999–2004 window was a golden era for the Roos, with the club consistently in premiership contention — and Carl playing a vital role throughout.
He credited head recruiter Brian Houlihan and past president Rod Campbell for the 2000 flag.
Carl was supported on the Hall of Fame night by daughter Rahni, wife Brooke and daughter Taleaka.
“We played… they won it, with all the recruiting — they did the hard work,” he humbly suggested.
Dickins was at his bruising best in the 2003 finals series, famously playing the grand final on one leg and still delivering a trademark performance. Time and again, he rose to the occasion in the biggest moments.
He praised coach Peter Tossol’s influence for the Roos 2003 success as their bond as coach and player was instrumental to the team’s resilience and success.
“He’s an amazing bloke and person — and an amazing family, too,” Dickins said.
Dickins wrapped up his Corowa Rutherglen career in 2005 with 183 games under his belt.
A fierce competitor, a loyal teammate, and a true club man, Carl Dickins will rightfully be remembered as one of Corowa Rutherglen’s finest ever midfielders.
In a touching tribute to those closest to him, he said: “to my two daughters — I love you to death — and to my wife, you’re everything.”
Dickins was supported on the night by his friends and family, past premiership coach Peter Tossol, teammates Darrell Spencer and Brendan Eyers, past presidents John Elmore and Rod Campbell and former head recruiter Brian Houlihan.
