Troy Balzan – Holroyd Parramatta Goannas AFC
Goanna icon Troy Balzan (Balz) played his his 350th game for the club in August 2011 in the Division 2 fixture v Sydney University. For the past 21 years Balz has represented what the goanna culture is all about. He has always played hard but fair and his passion for the club has been unwaivering. Balz has been an extremely popular member of the club and has life long bonds with goannas across all generations. As players, coaches and members have come and gone, Balz has always been a constant in the Blue & Gold.
It may be fair to say that Balz was never blessed with natural athletic ability, however his tireless commitment, hard work, competitive spirit and raking left foot has meant that he was a permanent member of the 1st grade squad for 2 decades. His list of achievements is long and very few players in the club’s long history have made the impact and been as successful. Balz was also a member of the 2001 SFA 1st Grade Premiership team and it is widely regarded that he was the Best on Ground in that game.
Troy’s successes at the club have not been limited to his on field performances. He was also the Club’s 1st Grade coach for 4 years and was instrumental in rebuilding the club after a difficult period and leading the team to finals appearances in 3 of those years.
As Balz closes in on the club’s games played record (held by the inaugural Goanna Hall of Fame inductee Dave “Trusty”Barwick), Goannas of all generations join in thanking & congratulating Balz.
Click here for some footage of Balz in action
Achievements
Joined HPBAFC in 1991
1991 – R/U Best & Fairest (U18’s)
1994 – Best & Fairest (Reserve Grade)
2001 – Premiership
2005 – Life Member
2006 – 2009 – First Grade Coach reaching finals in 2007-2009
Played in 25 finals games
10 year committee member
Last Modified on 08/10/2012 20:04