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Joe Carmody Story. Joe was raised on a farm in the Colac area of Victoria in the 1920's. With father Joe Snr and cousins all noted local runners, foot running came very naturally to Joe, often representing his school and district at the highest level. Like many young men during the depression years Joe left school in search of work and money. Professional Sheffield (gift) events were very popular and Joe wasn't going to let his natural talent go to waste. Joe won numerous foot races as a professional concentrating on the 880 yards. His search for work sent him to Melbourne where he competed at a district level both in football and cricket. As a professional runner he now had the opportunity to compete against the best in the country including many Europeans coming to Australia. But a tragic accident while riding a bike put him in a coma for three weeks, with two broken legs and a slipped disk, at 29 Joe's foot racing career was at an end. Joe's search for work sent him to Yallourn in 1952 with the state electricity commission where he took a job at the hardware store. He was soon recruited to help coach the local runners and footballers. He reinstated his amature status and registered as a coach. Using some techniques taught to him by one of his early coaches in 'Jimmy Fuster' Joe embarked on what would be a life long passion for coaching. Joe developed a coaching ability that was revered and respected. With holehearted commitment he commenced coaching the Yallourn 2nd's football team but before long he was appointed coach of the seniors.( A position he held for 15 yrs ) In 1952 he played in and helped win an 'A' Grade Tennis Pennant for Yallourn. In 1955 he became President of Yallourn Athletic Club. A position he still holds today In 1957 he replaced 'Vic Gus' as president of the Latrobe Valley Athletic Association, a position he held until 1971. Over the years he gained a reputation of being one of Victorias if not the countries top athletic coaches. His commitment to local youth sport was evident in 1974, when he helped form several teams and started up a Basketball Association. In 1975 he was awarded life membership of the YN club. His coaching style has evolved during a career spanning over 50 years. Joe has coached over 30 National Titles and three olympians. "Your not training. Your practicing to be a champion. And whatever happens inbetween enjoy" 'Joe Carmody ' Joe is regularly seen at the track during the week. And attends all competitions his athletes compete in. When asked who is the best athlete he has trained over the years ………… "I'll have to wait to see how my current youngsters fare" |