Russell keeps Railways on track

Grant “Grunter” Russell was the head trainer at St Pats when their colts side folded in 1995, which left him with nowhere to go to continue the job he loved.

A call came from the late Colin “Scruffy” Burgess offering a role at Railways, and Russell has been with the Blues since.

“It’s a blessing to be part of such a fantastic club, ” Russell said.

“I’ve been here since 1995, and did have some time off while I was president of the Great Northern Football League and again to do some fitness coaching with hockey, but as a rule I’ve been back and forth with Railways since 1995.”

Russell’s expertise as a trainer has been his major input into the club and he is currently the head trainer, although he also served for a number of years on the board as a committee member.

Former secretary at Railways, Peter Courtland, praised the work Russell does behind the scenes.

“He’s an absolute ripper, Grunter, he just does a power of work and his impact on the club is profound, ” Courtland said.

“He’s down the club four nights a week doing everything he can to keep the boys on the park and even has players from ours and other clubs at his place during the season after hours, he’s that well recommended.

“It’s a mountain of work and hours for just one bloke, and he is just so committed.

“If he ever left, we’d easily have to employ two people to cover the work he does.”

Russell says he will continue doing the job as long as his body allows and saved an immense thanks for Ron O’Malley, Scruffy Burgess and Gary Bovell.

“Boey’s been my mentor and got me involved in State footy, so it’s great to do work with him and with the State country boys as well.”