School Sport Victoria – and the Victorian Primary Schools' Sports Association fraternity in particular – mourn the passing of Don Stanley, a most esteemed and respected Life Member, who died suddenly at his Eltham home on 11 November 2018.
Don graduated from Toorak Teachers' College in 1965, during which time he was playing football for South Melbourne under coach, Bob Skilton, before teaching placements brought an end to his promising VFL career.
His Primary schools' listings included Lubeck, Naringal East, Framlingham East, Bullioh, and Rosebank. He was Assistant Principal at both Kew East and Ruthven before his appointment as Principal at Greenhills PS in 1987 where he remained until his retirement from the Service in 2000. He was also awarded an International Teaching Fellowship to teach at an Elementary School in Scottsdale, Arizona for a short time.
Don's VPSSA days saw him serve dutifully in both General Committee and Executive roles over a long period. He attended and officiated at countless District, Zone, Region and State programs while fully supporting
SSA Exchanges. In this regard, he managed the 12 years and under TeamVic Football teams from 1989 till 1995 with great success. His management of coaches, players and parents was simply outstanding. Furthermore, his overseeing of the annual Football Jumpers Presentations was first rate and dear to his heart. He was awarded a VPSSA Life Membership in 1998.
Throughout his entire career in Education, Don was a true professional and a wonderful leader, mentor, coach and great mate. He was loved and admired widely as demonstrated by the very large gathering of family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances who attended his 'Celebration of Life' Service at the Heidelberg Golf Club on 20 November.
Don was 73 years young. His was truly a Life well-lived. He will be greatly missed.
