Max Papley

Maxwell William Papley (born 31 July 1940) is a former Australian rules footballer who represented in the Victorian Football League (VFL) and Moorabbin and Williamstown in the Victorian Football Association (VFA) during the 1950s and 1960s.

Early life and career Papley grew up supporting South Melbourne and attended South Melbourne Technical School, the same school as his hero, the legendary Bob Skilton. Papley began playing football for the Melbourne Fourths, and was told by his coach that he was too small.

In February 1964, Papley was cleared to South Melbourne, a couple of months prior to the events which saw Moorabbin expelled from the VFA. He had signed a form with South before his parents relocated to Moorabbin, and much as he loved playing for Moorabbin, Papley was happy to have a boyhood dream come true. He retired from playing after the 1970 season due to hamstring injuries, but remained as coach until 1972 – although he did return to the field for a few games in 1972. Papley played 54 games for the Seagulls, and kicked 108 goals, and his contribution was recognized with selection in Williamstown's official 'Team of the Century' in 2003 as centreman.

Papley captained the VFA representative team against Tasmania in one match in June 1968; it was the VFA's last representative match during Papley's career.

After football After finishing at Williamstown, Papley moved with his family to Bunyip, where he has lived since.