The great Greek-Australian footballer, Lou Richards was recently honored with a bronze statue at Collingwood football club’s headquarters and a John Kennedy Lifetime Achievement Award.
The 91 year-old Lou Richards, was born in Collingwood, Victoria in 1923. For 15 seasons he played for Collingwood’s team and was captain of the club from 1952 to 1955. After his retirement from football he started a media career that lasted more than five decades including sports journalism for the Sun News Pictorial, World of Sport and the Footy Show. He stood out both as a football player and later as a sports commentator, thanks to his devotion to his team and his great sense of humor.
Richards followed the steps of his grandfather Charlie H. Pannam (shortened from Pannamopoulos after migrating to Australia from Greece) and his uncles Charles and Alby Pannam who were former Collingwood players. Richards’ brother Ron, also played for the club. In 2004, Richards was named captain of the Greek Team of the 20th century and in 2008 he was included in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame.
“I never thought I would be so famous. To do this for me is unbelievable, I’m honored” said Richards after the unveiling of his statue. Collingwood president stated that Richards was “one of a kind” and that the statue was the best way to recognize his contribution to football.
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