RIP Norm Rule

Former Ipswich Socceroo Norm Rule has died at the age of 87.

Ross Hallett, a longtime Coalstars/Ipswich Knights player and club historian, reported the news in the following email, which he kindly let me publish below.

I never met Norm Rule, but I briefly met his brother, Ray, who was a Queensland rep player, and seen Ray's grandson Lincoln play for Western Pride over 3 seasons. The Rules were one of those families, like the Kitchings, Voglers, Nunns, Verralls and many others, who have contributed to Ipswich soccer over many decades and generations.

As well the background Ross details below, Norm Rule should also be remembered for helping set up the Queensland Christian Soccer Association, and the competition's original Ipswich club Tri-Colours, with Eric Jones.


Dear COALSTARS FAMILY,

It is with regret that I pass on the news of the passing of Norm, father of Mike Rule, well respected friend and a past President of Coalstars.  Our deepest condolences go to Mike, Charmaine and the Rule family, including Norm’s brother Ray.

Norm will be remembered as a true gentleman and an outstanding footballer of his time.

He stared for Bundamba Rangers as a teenager, scoring many goals from a half back position and winning Premierships with Rangers in 1955 & 1957. He represented Ipswich & Queensland for many years before gaining International Honours in 1958, playing for Australia against touring English side Blackpool. He then toured New Zealand and played a number of Tests there before playing again the following year against Scottish team Hearts of Midlothian. He represented Australia 11 times in total.

Along with brother Ray, he finished his career as Captain/Coach with then up and coming club Hollandia.

Norm’s Funeral will be held at the Bundamba Salvation Army Citadel at 10am this Friday, 11th October.

Kind Regards,

Ross Hallett.