Football Australia is saddened to hear news of the passing of Socceroo number 141, Bill Mahoney.
At the age of 19, Bill was included in the Australian squad to tour South Africa in 1950 as back-up goalkeeper to Norman Conquest. He enjoyed a representative career that extended over 8 years and included 14 appearances for Australia, 8 games for NSW, and 7 matches for Northern NSW against touring international sides.
Bill’s A international appearance came against South Africa in Adelaide in September 1955.
Bill played in Northern NSW alongside the likes of Alf Quill and Reg Date. In addition to the Wallsend, Bill played for Adamstown Rosebud and Weston before finishing out his senior career at Dudley.
In 2007, he was inducted into the Hunter Region Sporting Hall of Fame. Following his retirement, Bill contributed off the pitch as a director of Northern NSW Soccer Federation from 1973 to 1981 and again from 1987 to 1991.
Northern NSW Football’s National Premier Leagues “Goalkeeper of the Year” is presented in Bill’s name to honour his achievements and will continue to be awarded annually.
Football Australia extends its condolences on behalf of the football community to the Mahoney family and those closest to Bill.
