Big V Champion: Ian Rice (Collegians)

Ian Rice was a mainstay for Collegians for many years. He joined the Lions straight out of school at the end of 1972 after winning Wesley’s Best & Fairest.

A talented centreman and rover, he had an immediate impact at Collegians, and would go on to become a TRIPLE BEST & FAIREST in 1975, 76 & 80, as well as being runner-up on 4 occasions…

He took on the captaincy at a young age, played 197 games for the Lions, and then played a key role in establishing the club’s Under 19 program, as well as serving as Chairman of Selectors & Assistant Coach.

A Life Member of Collegians, Ian also pulled on the BIG V on 10 occasions between 1975 and 1980.

Despite NOT playing in A-GRADE at the time (as Collegians were in Premier B), Ian was named CAPTAIN of the BIG V in 1978 and 1980, a year in which he was named BEST AFIELD against Western Australia…

He represented his state with the same pride and distinction as he did his club, and was as highly regarded by his BIG V team-mates and coaches as he was his club ones.

Officially named a BIG V CHAMPION… the great IAN RICE!!