Gary Stevens

Extremely fit, hard-tackling Souths forward played in two grand final victories (1970-71). Souths' club historian, the late Tom Brock, stated that Stevens' career demonstrates that not all international stars are instant successes. Promoted to grade from Souths Juniors in 1964, he played in just 22 first grade matches in the next five seasons. The grandson of club great Arthur Oxford, Stevens cemented his place in Souths top team in 1970 and went on to play in Australia's 1972 World Cup campaign before touring with the 1973 Kangaroos. When Australia lost the First Test to Great Britain, Stevens was chosen to tighten defences and played in the last two Test victories. He played against France in the Second Test followed by two Tests against Great Britain in 1974. While Souths experienced a dreadful season in 1975, Stevens' efforts in a beaten side were rewarded with a place in Australia's World Series squad. He later joined C’bury under former Souths teammate Bob McCarthy.