Passing of Keith 'Spud' Slater

Passing of KEITH 'Spud' SLATER 

Keith Slater was appointed our Captain Coach for the 1964 season, leaving Bassendean Oval after Swans completed a hat-trick of premierships under the guidance of Haydn Bunton Jnr.

Slater was a regular state representative in both football and cricket, was a highly respected sporting identity whose leadership qualities were unquestioned.  Upon his arrival at the club, Slater emphasised personal and group goal setting and set about reversing the clubs’ fortunes, leading Subiaco to the 1^st semi-final in his first year, unfortunately losing to Claremont.

Keith “Spud” Slater played and coached the club in 52 games from 1964 to 1966, appointing Kevin Merifield as the club captain in 1965.  Keith Slater further distinguished himself in state football during his time at Subiaco , captaining the WA team in 1964 and 1965,  and serving as vice captain during the 1966 Hobart carnival.  Subiaco state players during this time were Wally Martin, Laurie Kettlewell and Austin Robertson.

Keith Slater was an inaugural inductee into the WA Football Hall of Fame and selected in Swan Districts Team of the Century.