Grants Braes AFC: A Glorious Beginning

Formation and Affiliation

Grants Braes AFC was established on January 11, 1961. In a letter from Gerald Huntly of the Otago Football Association (OFA) to Mr. J Paterson, the club was granted affiliation as a Junior team. Our official club colors—black, gold, and white—were accepted by the OFA.

Early Challenges

There was a slight delay in the acceptance of Grants Braes AFC as the OFA worked on forming a full Management Committee.

Foundation Team

​​​​​​​The inaugural team fielded an 8th Grade side, featuring players such as:

  • Trevor Wilson
  • Bruce Wright
  • Alan Keane
  • Ken Sheal
  • Derek Stewart
  • Phillip McDonnell
  • Stuart Smith
  • John Frew
  • Ross McKay
  • Murry Urquhart
  • Graham Bulling
  • Paul Robertson

First Games

The 8th Grade team celebrated a victorious debut, winning their very first game. Additionally, a 10th Grade side was established, which also triumphed in its opening match.

End of Season Statistics8th Grade Team:

  • Games Played: 15
  • Wins: 10
  • Draws: 1
  • Losses: 4
  • Goals For: 46
  • Goals Against: 24
  • Points: 21
  • League Position: 3rd

What an impressive achievement!

10th Grade Performance

While the 10th Grade side was not as successful, they still put forth a commendable effort:

  • Games Played: 14
  • Wins: 5
  • Draws: 2
  • Losses: 7
  • Goals For: 24
  • Goals Against: 25
  • Points: 12

Maori Hill dominated the groups that season.

Recognition and Achievements

The OFA Junior Management Committee welcomed both Grants Braes AFC and St Kilda into the competition in 1961. The officials of Grants Braes AFC received congratulations from the OFA for the impressive turnout of their teams. A highlight of the year was winning the Sutcliffe Cup for the March Past.

Engagement with the Community

In May 1961, Grants Braes AFC reached out to Grants Braes School to request the installation of football posts on school grounds. However, the request was declined, as the headmaster preferred to adopt rugby as the school’s favored sport. Unfortunately, the correspondence does not clarify whether this request was for the actual school grounds or the ground at Belford St.

Grants Braes AFC’s inaugural season set the stage for a bright future in local football, showcasing talent, determination, and a commitment to the sport.

Grants Braes AFC: 1962 Highlights

Community Engagement

In 1962, Grants Braes AFC received a letter from Grants Braes School expressing gratitude for the efforts in erecting football posts on the soccer ground. While the specific location of the ground is not mentioned, it is likely to be the Belford St. site.

New Home Ground

An extract from the Otago Daily Times (ODT) in 1962 noted that Grants Braes AFC, Dunedin's only soccer club catering exclusively to schoolboys, played its first match at their new home ground in Waverly.

Season Overview

During the 1962 season, Grants Braes AFC fielded a 10th Grade side in Section A. The team's performance was commendable:

  • Games Played: 7
  • Wins: 4
  • Draws: 2
  • Losses: 1
  • Goals For: 14
  • Goals Against: 4
  • Points: 9
  • Final Position: 3rd

A potential manager or coach for the team was Mr. Alf Hitchcox.

March Past Recognition

Grants Braes AFC earned recognition as runners-up in the March Past, further showcasing the club's growing prominence in the community.

The 1962 season marked another step forward for Grants Braes AFC, solidifying its presence in Dunedin’s soccer landscape while fostering a strong connection with local schools and communities.

Grants Braes AFC: 1963 Developments

Facilities Agreement

On May 23, 1963, Grants Braes School officially granted Grants Braes AFC permission to use the school’s changing rooms and toilets for their members. This arrangement required that the school caretaker, Mr. L Bond, be consulted and that Grants Braes AFC obtain his approval.

Financial Overview

As the 1963 season concluded, Grants Braes AFC’s financial statement reflected a balance of £27.18.9. This modest sum marked the club’s ongoing commitment to managing its finances responsibly while continuing to foster a thriving soccer environment for its members.

The developments in 1963 emphasized the growing relationship between Grants Braes AFC and Grants Braes School, alongside the club’s focus on financial sustainability as it continued to build its legacy in the community.

Grants Braes AFC: 1964 Achievements

Expanded Participation

In 1964, Grants Braes AFC took a significant step by entering teams into both the 8th and 9th Grade competitions. This expansion allowed the club to provide more opportunities for young players to develop their skills and compete at various levels.

Competitive Spirit

Both teams showcased strong performances throughout the season, demonstrating the club’s commitment to fostering talent and sportsmanship. The participation in two grades not only enhanced the competitive environment but also strengthened the sense of community among players, coaches, and supporters.

The 1964 season marked an important milestone for Grants Braes AFC, reflecting growth and a dedication to youth soccer development in the Dunedin area.

Grants Braes AFC: 1965 Highlights

Generous Support

On February 23, 1965, Waverley Cricket Club made a generous donation of £26 to Grants Braes AFC. While the document did not specify the reason for the donation, it underscored the strong community support for the club.

Leadership Changes

On March 25, 1965, John Patterson resigned from the Otago Football Association Junior Management Committee (J.M.C). As one of the foundation members, his contributions over the years were deeply valued. John’s decision to step down was driven by his desire to focus on expanding his personal business in Dunedin.

Team Expansion

On the field, Grants Braes AFC fielded three teams in 1965, competing in the 7th, 8th, and 10th Grades. The club's commitment to youth soccer was evident in the competitive spirit displayed across all teams.

8th Grade Success

The 8th Grade side had an exceptional season, finishing first in their section with only one loss. This achievement highlighted the talent and dedication of the players and coaches, reinforcing the club’s reputation for fostering skillful and competitive teams.

The developments in 1965 marked a year of both community support and on-field success for Grants Braes AFC, setting a strong foundation for the club’s future growth and achievements.

Grants Braes AFC: 1966 Milestones

On-Field Success

In 1966, Grants Braes AFC continued to thrive with three teams competing in the 8th, 9th, and 10th Grades. The standout performers were the 9th Grade side, who emerged as section winners with an impressive record of no losses. This achievement underscored the club's commitment to excellence and player development.

Community Support and Development

Grants Braes School further strengthened its partnership with the club by granting permission for Grants Braes AFC to erect a shed on their sports ground, intended for use as a changing room. This was a significant step in improving facilities for the players.

Financial and Volunteer Support

In addition to the shed approval, Grants Braes School offered to assist the club financially and provide volunteer hours if needed. This support illustrated the strong collaboration between the school and the club, fostering a positive environment for youth sports.

The year 1966 marked a period of significant achievement for Grants Braes AFC, both on the pitch and in building vital community partnerships.


Grants Braes AFC: 1967 Reflections

Tragic Loss

1967 was marked by tragedy for Grants Braes AFC when Laurence Douglas Tomlin, one of the team coaches and a committee member, collapsed while refereeing a 9th Grade match. At just 42 years old, his sudden passing left a deep impact on the club and its members. The loss was compounded by the passing of Jim Patterson, father of John Patterson, who had been a great supporter of the Junior Management Committee and the club.

New Opportunities

On March 7, 1967, Grants Braes AFC received permission to use their junior club colors for the first senior team. This team was primarily composed of former junior members who had transitioned to high school and expressed a desire to continue playing under the familiar Grants Braes colors.

Success in Senior Competition

The newly formed senior team entered the Men’s 3rd Grade competition and celebrated a remarkable achievement by winning the league by just a single point that season, marking a significant milestone for the club.

First Representative Player

In 1967, Grants Braes AFC celebrated its first Otago Football representative with the selection of Paul Robertson, a center forward, for the Otago Red Team. He joined notable players like Neil Mackenzie, G Boomer, and A Evans, further elevating the club’s profile in regional soccer.

Junior Team Performance

On the junior front, Grants Braes AFC once again fielded three teams in the 7th, 9th, and 10th Grades. The standout performers were the 7th Grade side, who emerged victorious in their section.

Financial Standing

Financially, Grants Braes AFC concluded the season with a balance of $182.42 in their bank account, reflecting careful management as the club continued to grow.

Overall, 1967 was a year of both sorrow and significant achievements for Grants Braes AFC, as the club navigated challenges while celebrating milestones that strengthened its community and legacy in Dunedin soccer.

Grants Braes AFC: 1968 Developments

Foundation Committee

On March 30, 1968, the club established its foundation committee, which included:

  • President: Mr. A. Thomas
  • Treasurer: Mr. A. Richards
  • Hon. Secretary: Mr. J. Paterson
  • Committee Members:
    • Mr. A. Hitchcox
    • Mr. R. Cooper
    • Mr. P. Robertson

Ground Challenges

In the 1968 club notes, it was highlighted that Grants Braes AFC was struggling to secure suitable grounds. While the facilities in Waverly (likely Belford St.) were adequate for junior teams, they were not suitable for the senior team, which had been playing its games at Kettle Park.

A promising development was on the horizon, as Andersons Bay was about to have a large sports area established, with 4.5 acres of land reclaimed, totaling 13.5 acres of free land. Both Grants Braes AFC and St Kilda AFC expressed interest in utilizing this new facility.

Community Involvement

The club notes also mentioned the invaluable contribution of a dedicated group of ladies who volunteered to coach the junior teams during the week, demonstrating strong community involvement and support for youth development.

On-Field Performance

On the pitch, the Grants Braes senior team entered the 2nd Grade Division A and was performing well, sitting mid-table by mid-July 1968. The junior teams were fielding players across the 7th, 9th, and two 10th Grade teams, marking the first time the club had teams in both sections of the 10th Grade. The standout performers that year were the 9th Grade side, finishing second in their section.

The year 1968 was characterized by both challenges and growth for Grants Braes AFC, as the club navigated the complexities of facility needs while fostering a strong community spirit and commitment to developing young talent.

Grants Braes AFC: 1969 Highlights

First Annual General Meeting

On February 27, 1969, Grants Braes AFC held its very first Annual General Meeting (AGM), marking an important milestone in the club's governance and community engagement.

On-Field Achievements

​​​​​​​On the pitch, Grants Braes AFC continued to make strides with its junior teams, fielding three squads across the 8th, 9th, and 10th Grades. The standout performers were the 10th Grade team, who emerged victorious in their section, showcasing their talent and teamwork.

The senior team also had a strong season, finishing 3rd in the 2nd Division Grade A. This performance highlighted the club's competitive spirit and dedication to developing players at all levels.

Overall, 1969 was a significant year for Grants Braes AFC, with organizational growth and notable achievements on the field, setting a solid foundation for the future.