We are sadden that our Life and Hall of Fame member Robert (Bob) Mulavin passed away on February 2nd.
Bob as he was known by those at the club will always be remembered as a tremendous club person.
He was inducted as a Life Member of the St Bedes Old Collegians Football Club in 1992, and in 2007 was inducted into the St Bede’s/Mentone Football Club Hall of Fame. The HOF induction booklet described Bob as, “a true gentle giant and a delightful man”, which he was.
Bob was a talented sportsman.
A student at St Bedes College Bob had a love for sport. He was a member of the First Eleven cricket team as well as the First Eighteen football team during their Co-Premiership season in 1967. He also Captained the school cricket team in the U/16 Federal District Cricket Association, which included a scintillating knock of 72 runs in a Grand Final versus Cheltenham.
As a talented young ruckman Bob was invited to play U/19s football with the Melbourne Football Club. He was recognized with the prestigious award of Best Clubman.
He returned to play football in 1972 for St Bede’s Old Collegians. During 1972-73 Bob managed to play 19 games for the club. 18 Senior and one Under 19. Unfortunately a very, very serious medical condition affecting his eyesight caused his playing days to abruptly end. Bob had no choice he could not continue to play.
It was off field that Bob’s contribution to the Club would be most memorable and rewarding. He was Club Secretary for four seasons between 1974-1977. Our VAFA delegate for many years, and most memorable was team manager of the Seniors when they won the club’s first VAFA Senior Premiership in 1977. A wonderful day!
In 1979, Bob received the club’s, Best Clubman award.
Many of Bob’s club mates were present at his service. Noelene Goodwin, Bob’s sister, expressively asked, we passed on that she and her family sincerely thank everyone who attended or sent messages of condolence.
How would we describe Bob? Without question he was a very humble and caring person that we were lucky to have had as part of our club.
RIP Bob.