Ron Hilditch

Eels’ ‘hitman’ was hooker in the club's first grand final in 1976 before playing in both the grand final draw and replay the following year. Hilditch also proved his toughness when he was 'volunteered' to be the focal point of the controversial 'wedge' move instigated by coach Jack Gibson in 1976. A 1978 Kangaroo, Hilditch played in 9 matches including the Second Test against France after Max Krilich was injured. A hard-working prop, Hilditch captained P’matta in the club's Tooths Cup win in 1980. The following season, the year P’matta broke through to win the premiership, he made another two Test appearances against France. Unfortunately, leg injuries ruled Hilditch out of the club's second successive grand final win, in 1982, and he announced his retirement before the start of the 1983 season. He made an ill-fated comeback mid-season only to suffer a shoulder injury that finally ended his career. Three years later he again came out of retirement to captain-coach Mudgee. After coaching I’warra (1989-90) with good results, he spent a year as P’matta's reserve grade coach before succeeding out-going coach Mick Cronin in 1994. After three troubled seasons which produced indifferent results, Hilditich stepped aside as P’matta coach in favour of Brian Smith.