Vale Frank Allen

It is with great sadness that the club has learnt of the passing of 1950 Sandover Medallist, Life Member and Hall of Fame inductee Frank Allen

Frank played his first game for East Perth on May 15, 1943 against South Fremantle at Fremantle Oval.

Frank’s introduction to football was reported in the following week’s copy of the Football Budget when it was noted “The small recruit Frank Allen on the left wing battled pluckily until a knock quieten him. He is speedy and elusive. Thus, commenced a career of 190 games, 11 State games, 1944 premiership, Fairest and Best 1950, Reserves coach 1954 and Thirds coach 1957. 

In 1997, he was awarded a retrospective Sandover Medal in recognition of his 1950 tie with Jim Conway.

In retirement, Frank lobbied long and strong for the inclusion of under-age games in the official tallies of league games played by players. 

Frank was involved in a scheme created by the Department of Sport and Recreation that involved older people acting as mentors for youngsters and going around to schools and talking about life and sport. Frank was extremely popular among the kids at the Kyella Primary School in North Perth.

In later life there was every possibility you will catch up with Frank casting a fishing line from the North Beach jetty.

Frank had been fighting a long-term battle with cancer. However, this did not stop him attending East Perth matches and functions where he regularly held court telling stories of his time at East Perth.

Frank will be deeply missed by the Royals. The Board, Players, Members, Staff and supporters wish to pass on their condolences to Margaret and the Allen family.

The funeral service to celebrate Frank's life will be held at Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park West Chapel  on Monday 12th of February at 10.00am. The wake will be held in the East Perth Members Bar at Leederville Oval from 11.30am.