Bill Stephen

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Bill Stephen (born April 1, 1928) was a former Australian rules footballer with Fitzroy. He also coached Fitzroy and Essendon.

[edit] Fitzroy career

Recruited from Thornbury CYMS and making his debut with the Fitzroy Football Club in the VFL in 1947, Stephen was one of the best defenders in the league. He won the Fitzroy Football Club best and fairest in 1950 and 1954 and played for Victoria 14 times. He went on to play 162 games and kicked 4 goals for the club., playing prominently from the back pocket position.

[edit] Coaching career

Bill Stephen coached Fitzroy on three separate occasions from 1955-57,1965-70 and 1979-80. Stephen also coached Essendon, from 1976-1977, with a 16 win, 27 losses and 1 draw record. He made way for Barry Davis. His overall coaching record stands at 258 matches, 84 wins, 172 losses and 2 draws.

Preceded by Allan Ruthven	Fitzroy Football Club coach 1955-1957	Succeeded by Len Smith
Preceded by Kevin Murray	Fitzroy Football Club coach 1965-1970	Succeeded by Graham Donaldson
Preceded by Des Tuddenham	Essendon Football Club coach 1976-1977	Succeeded by Barry Davis
Preceded by Graham Campbell	Fitzroy Football Club coach 1979-1980	Succeeded by Robert Walls