1953 American All Stars tour of Australia and New Zealand

1953 rugby league tour 1953 American All Stars 1953 1953 Australia and New Zealand Mike Dimitro Norm (Latchem) Robinson in Australia Frank Mulcare & Travers Hardwick in New Zealand Various Gary Kerkorian 173 Alvin E. Kirkland 14 26 6 2 18 None 1953-54 American All Stars rugby league tour of France The 1953 American All Stars rugby league tour of Australia and New Zealand was a tour by a group of twenty men who had not previously played the sport of Rugby League. Most of the team were current or former College Gridiron footballers with Stanford University, the University of California, Los Angeles, or the University of Southern California. Some of the party had played rugby union at their colleges, during gridiron off-seasons.No helmets required : the remarkable story of the American All Stars Gavin Willacy 2018 Durrington Pitch Publishing Ltd Summary The tour was instigated by player-manager Mike Dimitro, who claimed to have witnessed a game of rugby league in Sydney whilst serving in the Pacific during World War II. Dimitro had played for UCLA and was a high school teacher in Los Angeles in the lead up to the tour. Dimitro wrote to the Australian Rugby League Board of Control in February 1952. Several of the League's administrators were fervent promoters of their sport, and some were keen to take the game to the United States, so Dimitro's suggestion was favourably received. Another factor was the success of France's inaugural tour in 1951. Harold Matthews responded on behalf of the board in April 1952. Apprised of the proposed tour, the New Zealand Rugby League were also interested, and their Secretary, J.E. Knowling, was able to meet with Mike Dimitro in Los Angeles. Although arrangements in California did not run smoothly, with reassurances sought by the host nation boards, eighteen players arrived in Sydney on May 18, 1953.http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248694504 U.S. Team of Converts - Looking forward to League tour The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) Sydney 19 May 1953 5 Feb 2021 31 National Library of Australia Crawford George A further two players arrived on June 1. The appointed coach, Norm “Latchem” Robinson, had less than a fortnight to educate the players. A touch-football game against South Sydney and a tackle match against a team of Army Engineers were used in preparations.http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248693860 Yanks Impress In 'Secret' Trial The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) Sydney 22 May 1953 6 Feb 2021 40 National Library of Australia Thatcher George http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article118412271 American Rugby League Players Have First Win The Queensland Times Ipswich 26 May 1953 6 Feb 2021 3 National Library of Australia Remarkably, the American All Stars won their first match on the scheduled tour, beating a combined Monaro and Southern Districts side. The next two scheduled fixtures were against Sydney and New South Wales, and the Americans were understandably outclassed. The wisdom of setting novices against experienced semi-professionals so early in the tour was questioned at the time. The matches did, however, attract large crowds 65,453 on a Saturday against Sydney, and 32,554 on a Tuesday against New South Wales. There was consensus in the press that the host teams did take it easy on the visitors. The tour progressed with matches in regional and country New South Wales, and then into Queensland. The Australian board had recommended that 28 players would be necessary given the two matches per week schedule, and injuries had an impact on the twenty-man squad. This led to the informal use of “ring-ins” in matches at Ipswich and Wagga, and formally in a return match against New South Wales on July 25, and throughout the New Zealand leg. Through the tour the American players were commended for their excellent ball handling and robust tackling. The running ability of many, particularly the backs was praised. Referees showed leniency to a lack of understanding of offside rules in early matches. A slowness in comprehending and implementing cover defence was a common concern in reports on later matches. A curiosity to local spectators and the press at the time was the All Stars' practice of warming up on the field with calisthenics, or “physical jerks”. Although this innovation did not immediately catch on, National Rugby League teams have utilised on field warm-ups since the 1990s. A highlight for spectators was the American's use of the pitch-pass, with exhibitions given prior to most matches. In play, league rules against forward passing meant the pitch was restricted to lateral or backwards movement. Although a few pitch passes did lead to an All Stars try, usually the arc allowed defenders time to immediately tackle the receiver, or intercept. A sad development of the tour was that Jack Bonetti contracted Polio. This was diagnosed after he entered hospital in Townsville, having exhibited pain after the match in Cairns.http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article134269923 Bonetti Flown To Sydney Newcastle Morning Herald Newcastle 23 Jul 1953 6 Feb 2021 7 National Library of Australia Touring squad Player Pos. Main Position Age Weight Height College(s) GamesinAus GamesinNZ Tries Goals FieldGoals Points USA 16 Al Abajian FE 25 13.3 (84) 5.8 Country 16 USC 15 8 0 0 24 New Jersey 16 Bill Albans WG 25 13.8 (86) 6.4 frameless|16x16px North Carolina 13 0 5 0 0 15 California 16 Jack Bonetti SR 22 15.1 (96) 6.1 Manly 16 Stanford 9 0 7 0 0 21 USA 16 Bob Buckley CE 20 13.8 (86) 5.1 Country 16 USC 12 0 4 0 0 12 USA 16 Ed Demirjian WG 22 13.3 (84) 5.1 Country 16 USC 6 2 0 0 6 West Virginia 16 Mike Dimitro SR 28 15.1 (96) 5.1 University 16 UCLA Country 16 USC 11 3 0 0 9 Illinois 16 Steve Drakulvich PR 28 15.13 (101) 6.3 University 16 UCLA 9 1 0 0 3 California 16 Ted Grossman HB 23 12.7 (79) 5.1 Balmain 16 Pacific 16 7 0 0 21 Hawaii 16 Harold Han CE 20 13.8 (86) 5.9 Country 16 USC 12 0 7 0 0 21 New York 16 Pat Henry SR 24 14.9 (93) 5.11 Manly 16 Stanford 11 1 0 0 3 California 16 Vince Jones PR 23 14.9 (93) 5.11 Ireland 16 Dartmouth Manly 16 Stanford 16 3 0 0 9 California 16 George Kauffman FB 26 14.0 (89) 6 University 16 UCLA 14 1 7 2 21 California 16 Gary Kerkorian WG 23 13.3 (84) 6 Manly 16 Stanford 17 0 5 79 0 173 USA 16 Al D. Kirkland LK 23 15.5 (98) 6.3 Country 16 USC Manly 16 Stanford 16 12 1 0 38 California 16 Alvin E. Kirkland CE 22 13.3 (84) 5.1 Country 16 USC Manly 16 Stanford 16 14 0 0 42 Ohio 16 Fran Mandulay SR 24 15.0 (95) 6 Illawarra 16 Nebraska University 16 UCLA 15 1 0 0 3 California 16 Xavier Mena PR 24 16.1 (102) 6.1 University 16 UCLA 6 2 0 0 6 Hawaii 16 Sol Naumu FE 23 14.0 (89) 5.11 University 16 UCLA Country 16 USC 14 1 8 0 19 Nebraska 16 Ray Terry PR 29 16.3 (103) 6.2 Manly 16 Alabama 1 0 0 0 0 California 16 Sydney Walker HK 21 15.0 (95) 5.8 University 16 UCLA 10 1 0 0 3 Note: The tally of games in Australia, tries and goals collated from newspaper articles, as referenced below. In a few instances newspaper accounts differ. Some match reports do not mention all participants. A concession was made to allow the Americans to use substitutes in the event of first half injuries. This was unusual for the time. Normally no replacements were permitted. Four Queenslanders Harold Crocker, Brian Davies, Alan Hornery and Ken McCaffery played for the American All Stars in the July 25 match against New South Wales. Five of the tourists returned to the United States at the conclusion of the Australian leg.http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article145663590 Five U.S. All Stars leave for home The Daily Advertiser (Wagga Wagga) Wagga 29 Jul 1953 6 Feb 2021 6 National Library of Australia By arrangement with the New Zealand Rugby League, they were replaced by four, later five, New Zealanders: Travers Hardwick and Frank Mulcare who took on coaching duties, and also Des Barchard, Roy Moore and Roy Roff. Australian leg May 27 3pm Monaro-Southern Division Australia 16 2534 United States 16 America Jack O'Brien Manuka Oval, Canberra 4,877 Gate: AU£ 965 Teamshttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2882873 U.S. Rugby League Team Here Today; Reception And Match The Canberra Times Canberra 27 May 1953 26 Jan 2021 3 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248691486 Football The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) Sydney 18 May 1953 26 Jan 2021 17 National Library of AustraliaReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2882961 Incident- Packed Match Won, 34 To 25 By American Stars The Canberra Times Canberra 28 May 1953 26 Jan 2021 6 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248695573 U.S. Centre Praised - Scores four tries in dramatic win The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) Sydney 28 May 1953 26 Jan 2021 44 National Library of Australia Crawford GeorgeReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article134151236 Record Crowd Sees All Stars Win First Match Illawarra Mercury Wollongong 28 May 1953 26 Jan 2021 11 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article104567469 Local's Spectacular Try Against Americans Goulburn Post Goulburn 28 May 1953 27 Jan 2021 8 National Library of Australia Tries: 5 Roy Freebody (2) Bill Beazley Greg Watts Ron Bercene Goals: 5Bill Beazley (5) Tries: 8 Alvin Kirkland (4) Al D. Kirkland (2) Al Abajian Jack Bonetti Goals: 5Gary Kerkorian (5) Team list:Monaco-Southern Division FB: Bill Beazley (St George 10 Wollongong), WG: Greg Watts (Pyree), CE: Roy Freebody (Glebe 10 Captain's Flat), CE: Jack Seamer (Western Suburbs 10 Port Kembla), WG: P. Ryan (New South Wales 10 Bombala), FE: Keith Sullivan (Country 10 Goulburn), HB: Ron Bercene (New South Wales 10 Bombala), LK: Bob Smith (Western Suburbs 10 Port Kembla), SR: Angus Miller (Western Suburbs 10 Berry), SR: Col Yarham (Australia 10 Mittagong), PR: Billy Hodges (Glebe 10 Captain's Flat), HK: R. Stewart (Bega), PR: Bruce Edwards (Glebe 10 Robertson). J. Southwell (Australia 10 Canberra) played. He may have replaced Yarham prior to kick-off. Col Williamson (Country 10 Goulburn) was named as a reserve, but likely did not play as he was not mentioned in match reports. The following were initially selected but did not play: Robert Bartlett (St George 10 Wollongong), Jack Plater (Western Suburbs 10 Yass) and Harry Wells (St George 10 Wollongong). American All Stars: FB: George Kauffman, WG: Bill Albans, CE: Ed Demirjian, CE: Gary Kerkorian, WG: Alvin E. Kirkland, FE: Sol Naumu, HB: Ted Grossman, LK: Pat Henry, SR: Vince Jones, SR: Al D. Kirkland, SR: Fran Mandulay, HK: Sydney Walker, LK: Jack Bonetti. Al Abajian replaced Bill Albans. May 30 3pm Sydney City 16 5225 United States 16 America Jack O'Brien Sydney Cricket Ground 65,453 Gate: AU£ 8,744 ProgramReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248695679 Amazing accuracy in American pitch-pass - Pidding's cricket score of 34 points against America The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) Sydney 31 May 1953 27 Jan 2021 59 National Library of Australia Crawford George http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article168042243 64,953 Fans Flock To See League'S Yankee Doodle Dandies Truth (Sydney newspaper) Sydney 31 May 1953 27 Jan 2021 28 National Library of Australia Mathers JimReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article231042309 Americans Fail In Sydney - Good showmen, but novices in League tactics The Sun (Sydney) Sydney 31 May 1953 27 Jan 2021 27 National Library of Australia Allen Geoff Tries: 10 Noel Pidding (4) Ken Kearney (2) Keith Holman Ron Taylor Ben Haslam Lloyd Hudson Goals: 11Noel Pidding (11) Tries: 3 Sydney Walker Alvin Kirkland Sol Naumu Goals: 8Gary Kerkorian (8) Team list:Sydney: FB: Clive Churchill (26) (South Sydney 10 Souths), WG: Noel Pidding (26) (St George 10 St George), CE: George Martin (20) (North Sydney 10 Norths), CE: Ron Taylor (21) (Eastern Suburbs 10 Easts), WG: Barry Stenhouse (19) (Canterbury 10 Canterbury), FE: Bob Sullivan (22) (North Sydney 10 Norths), HB: Keith Holman (25) (Western Suburbs 10 Wests), LK: Les Cowie (28) (South Sydney 10 Souths), SR: Arthur Collinson (23) (Western Suburbs 10 Wests), SR: Ben Haslam (24) (North Sydney 10 Norths), PR: Roy Bull (23) (Manly 10 Manly), HK: Ken Kearney (27) (St George 10 St George), PR: Lloyd Hudson (25) (North Sydney 10 Norths). The following were selected as reserves but did not play: Ken Slattery (20) (Parramatta 10 Parramatta) and Johnny Slade (25) (Parramatta 10 Parramatta). American All Stars: FB: George Kauffman, WG: Bill Albans, CE: Alvin E. Kirkland, CE: Sol Naumu, WG: Ed Demirjian, FE: Gary Kerkorian, HB: Ted Grossman, LK: Jack Bonetti, SR: Al D. Kirkland, SR: Fran Mandulay, PR: Vince Jones, HK: Sydney Walker, PR: Pat Henry. June 2 2.30pm New South Wales New South Wales 16 6241 United States 16 America Jack O'Brien Sydney Cricket Ground 32,554 Gate: AU£ 3,533 ProgramReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230729180 N.S.W. Players Hold Off As Game Finishes In Farce The Sun (Sydney) Sydney 2 Jun 1953 5 Feb 2021 21 National Library of Australia Corbett W.F. Tries: 14 Tommy Ryan (6) Noel Pidding (2) Ken Kearney (2) Don Schofield Harry Wells Keith Holman Ken Slattery Goals: 10Noel Pidding (10) Tries: 9 Alvin Kirkland (3) Al D. Kirkland (2) Harold Han Jack Bonetti Ed Demirjian Bob Buckley Goals: 7Gary Kerkorian (7) Team list:New South Wales: FB: Clive Churchill (26) (South Sydney 10 Souths), WG: Noel Pidding (26) (St George 10 St George), CE: Robert Bartlett (26) (St George 10 Wollongong), CE: Harry Wells (21) (St George 10 Wollongong), WG: Tommy Ryan (St George 10 St George), FE: Rees Duncan (21) (Eastern Suburbs 10 Kurri Kurri), HB: Keith Holman (25) (Western Suburbs 10 Wests), LK: Ken Slattery (25) (Parramatta 10 Parramatta), SR: Don Schofield (22) (Wellington 10 Cessnock), SR: Albert Paul (25) (Parramatta 10 Lakes United), PR: Charlie Gill (30) (New South Wales 10 Newcastle Northern Suburbs), HK: Ken Kearney (27) (St George 10 St George), PR: Roy Bull (23) (Manly 10 Manly). Brian Carlson (20) (New South Wales 10 Newcastle Northern Suburbs) was initially selected but withdrew. Arthur Collinson (23) (Western Suburbs 10 Wests) and Johnny Slade (20) (Parramatta 10 Parramatta) were selected as reserves but did not play. American All Stars: FB: Sol Naumu, WG: Bob Buckley, CE: Alvin E. Kirkland, CE: Harold Han, WG: Ed Demirjian, FE: Gary Kerkorian, HB: Ted Grossman, LK: Jack Bonetti, SR: Al D. Kirkland, SR: Mike Dimitro, PR: Fran Mandulay, HK: Pat Henry, PR: Vince Jones. June 7 Combined Country Country 16 359 United States 16 America Darcy Lawler Wollongong Showground 11,787 Gate: AU£ 1,627 Teamhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article134147056 State League Team To Be Chosen At Wollongong Illawarra Mercury Wollongong 26 May 1953 27 Jan 2021 12 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article142717557 The Americans Face Stiff Task At Wollongong South Coast Times and Wollongong Argus Wollongong 4 Jun 1953 27 Jan 2021 32 National Library of AustraliaReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article134147992 Record Crowd Sees American All Stars Lose To Country Illawarra Mercury Wollongong 8 Jun 1953 26 Jan 2021 12 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248753654 Country Wins Tough Game 35-9 - Americans Improve The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) Sydney 8 Jun 1953 26 Jan 2021 23 National Library of Australia Crawford GeorgeReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article142716513 Country Not Even Extended By American All Stare South Coast Times and Wollongong Argus Wollongong 8 Jun 1953 27 Jan 2021 23 National Library of Australia Tries: 7 Darcy Russell Ron Battye Don Schofield Jack Lumsden Robert Bartlett Charlie Gill Ernie Hammerton Goals: 7Darcy Russell (7) Tries: 1 Jack Bonetti Goals: 3Gary Kerkorian (3) Team list:Combined Country: FB: Darcy Russell (Brisbane 10 Waratah Mayfield), WG: Brian Carlson (New South Wales 10 Norths), CE: Harry Wells (St George 10 Wollongong), CE: Robert Bartlett (St George 10 Wollongong), WG: Jack Lumsden (Parramatta 10 Coonabarabran), FE: Rees Duncan (Eastern Suburbs 10 Kurri), HB: Noel Hill (Western Suburbs 10 Maitland), LK: Ron Battye (Wellington 10 Gundagai), SR: Don Schofield (Wellington 10 Cessnock), SR: Albert Paul (Parramatta 10 Lakes United), PR: Charlie Gill (New South Wales 10 Norths), HK: Ernie Hammerton (Boorowa), PR: Bryan Orrock (Boorowa), Coach: Ray Stehr The following were named as reserves but are not mentioned (as playing) in match reports: Guy Brazier (Dorrigo), Jack Seamer (Western Suburbs 10 Port Kembla) and Bob Smith (Western Suburbs 10 Port Kembla) American All Stars: Al Abajian, Bill Albans, Jack Bonetti, Ted Grossman, Vince Jones, George Kauffman, Gary Kerkorian, Al D. Kirkland, Xavier Mena and Sydney Walker were mentioned in match reports, with one report mentioning that Pat Henry took the field as a replacement. June 10 3pm Western Division Australia 16 2421 United States 16 America Darcy Lawler Victoria Park, Dubbo 4,717 Gate: AU£ 1,186 Teamhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article132606824 Football - Western Team To Play U.S. All Stars Dubbo Liberal and Macquarie Advocate Dubbo 3 Jun 1953 30 Jan 2021 6 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article156621754 Western Team to Play Americans Mudgee Guardian and Gulgong Advertiser Mudgee 4 Jun 1953 28 Jan 2021 15 National Library of AustraliaReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article132604032 7000 See 'All Stars' In Historic Match With West Dubbo Liberal and Macquarie Advocate Dubbo 10 Jun 1953 30 Jan 2021 1 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article161674769 Win For Western Districts - American Tourists Beaten Western Advocate Bathurst 11 Jun 1953 30 Jan 2021 6 National Library of AustraliaReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248755051 American R.L Team Battered In Close Dubbo Match The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) Sydney 11 Jun 1953 30 Jan 2021 44 National Library of Australia Crawford George http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18371288 Americans Hurt In Rugged Dubbo R.L. Loss The Sydney Morning Herald Sydney 11 Jun 1953 30 Jan 2021 8 National Library of Australia Tries: 6 Jack Grant Bruce Cohen Cec Edwards Leo Nosworthy Peter Burns Jack Lumsden Goals: 3Jack Lumsden (3) Tries: 3 Jack Bonetti Gary Kerkorian Pat Henry Goals: 6Gary Kerkorian (6) Team list:Western Districts: FB: Gordon Head (Hull 10 Baradine), WG: Bruce Cohen (Manly 10 Wellington), CE: Brian Condon (St George 10 Mudgee), CE: Jack Grant (Parramatta 10 Brewarrina), WG: Jack Lumsden (Parramatta 10 Coonabarabran), FE: Peter Burns (South Sydney 10 Bathurst Railway), HB: Cec Edwards (Trangie), LK: Leo Nosworthy (St George 10 Narromine), SR: Jock Weir (St George 10 Narromine), SR: Noel Flynn (Manly 10 Lithgow Arms Factory), PR: Bertie Simpson (Manly 10 Lithgow Arms Factory), HK: Barry Green (St George 10 Mudgee), PR: N. Towett (Trangie), Coach: Frank Bell (Manly 10 Lithgow Arms Factory). Brian (Blondie) Bolton (Dubbo) and Vin Corish (Ireland 10 Dunedoo) were named as reserves and took the field for the second half. The following were initially selected but withdrew: Eric Dodd (Dubbo), Norman McKnight (Western Suburbs 10 Forbes), B. Runsford (Lithgow). American All Stars: FB: Sol Naumu, WG: Bob Buckley, CE: Harold Han, CE: Gary Kerkorian, WG: Ed Demirjian, FE: Ted Grossman, HB: Al Abajian, LK: Jack Bonetti, SR: Pat Henry, SR: Fran Mandulay, PR: Steve Drakulvich, HK: Sydney Walker, PR: Xavier Mena. Vince Jones and George Kauffman took the field as replacements for injured players Drakulvich and Mena. The Dubbo Liberal match reports mentioned Ray Terry as being tackled into touch. June 13 Newcastle Newcastle1908 16 1019 United States 16 America Aub Oxford Newcastle Sports Ground 14,160 Gate: AU£ 2,136 Teamshttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article134278397 Russell Leads Newcastle Newcastle Morning Herald Newcastle 9 Jun 1953 30 Jan 2021 8 National Library of Australiahttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article161049256 U.S. League Team Improved; May Test Newcastle The Newcastle Sun Newcastle 11 Jun 1953 30 Jan 2021 24 National Library of Australia Roulston R.S.Reporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article134273661 League Lessons From Americans Newcastle Morning Herald Newcastle 15 Jun 1953 30 Jan 2021 8 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230728303 Captain big factor in Americans' win The Sun (Sydney) Sydney 14 Jun 1953 30 Jan 2021 33 National Library of AustraliaReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248752109 Americans win -- but referee generous The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) Sydney 14 Jun 1953 30 Jan 2021 63 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230729977 Americans Defeat Newcastle The Sun (Sydney) Sydney 13 Jun 1953 30 Jan 2021 7 National Library of Australia Tries: 2 Bill Shanks Brian Pead Goals: 2Darcy Russell (2) Tries: 3 Harold Han (2) Gary Kerkorian Goals: 5Gary Kerkorian (5) Team list:Newcastle: FB: Darcy Russell (Brisbane 10 Waratah Mayfield), WG: Bill Shanks (Brisbane 10 Waratah Mayfield), CE: Bill Smith (Brisbane 10 Waratah Mayfield), CE: Brian Pead (Halifax 10 Centrals), WG: Lester Batey (Wellington 10 Cessnock), FE: Warren Foley (Brisbane 10 Waratah Mayfield), HB: Noel Hill (Western Suburbs 10 Maitland), LK: Barry Levido (Wellington 10 Cessnock), SR: Gordon Harley (Western Suburbs 10 Maitland), SR: Henry Holloway (Brisbane 10 Waratah Mayfield), PR: Doug Hawke (New South Wales 10 Norths), HK: Kevin McKiernan (Western Suburbs 10 Maitland), PR: Herb Pearson (Eastern Suburbs 10 Kurri). Billy Roberts (Eastern Suburbs 10 Kurri) and Tom Anderson (New South Wales 10 Norths) were named as reserves. American All Stars: FB: Sol Naumu, WG: Alvin E. Kirkland, CE: Harold Han, CE: Bob Buckley, WG: Ed Demirjian, FE: Gary Kerkorian, HB: Ted Grossman, LK: Jack Bonetti, SR: Al D. Kirkland, SR: Mike Dimitro, PR: Fran Mandulay, HK: Vince Jones, PR: Pat Henry. George Kauffman and Al Abajian were named as reserves and the latter is mentioned as playing in a match report. June 17 Northern NSW Ireland 16 2618 United States 16 America Aub Oxford Brelsford Park, Coffs Harbour 5,400 Gate: AU£ 707 Teamhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article187938257 Team to Play Americans The Coff's Harbour Advocate Coffs Harbour 5 Jun 1953 31 Jan 2021 10 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article194246537 American All-Stars At Coffs Harbour The Daily Examiner Grafton 16 Jun 1953 31 Jan 2021 2 National Library of AustraliaReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article161028769 Spotlight On Sport - American All-Stars, North N.S.W. In Colourful Clash At Coff's The Northern Champion Taree 19 Jun 1953 31 Jan 2021 12 National Library of Australia Mac Ken http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article173011130 "Sideline" Reviews Yanks V. N. Coast Manning River Times Taree 19 Jun 1953 31 Jan 2021 8 National Library of AustraliaReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article194256477 Yank Footballers Down In Hard Game The Daily Examiner Grafton 18 Jun 1953 31 Jan 2021 3 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18376719 All Stars Player Helps Country Win 26-18 The Sydney Morning Herald Sydney 18 Jun 1953 31 Jan 2021 9 National Library of Australia Tries: 6 Lyle McKay (3) Jim Ruge (2) Ken O'Reilly Goals: 4Bob Hillier (4) Tries: 4 Bob Buckley Al Abajian Ed Demirjian Jack Bonetti Goals: 3Gary Kerkorian (3) June 20 3pm Queensland Queensland 16 3936 United States 16 America Frank Ballard Brisbane Cricket Ground 24,397 Gate: AU£ 3,983 Teamshttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article187211018 Rugby League: Queensland In 22-13 Win In Night Game Warwick Daily News Warwick 16 Jun 1953 31 Jan 2021 5 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248754335 One injured in U.S. squad The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) Sydney 19 Jun 1953 31 Jan 2021 39 National Library of Australia Crawford GeorgeReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article98276161 Americans Could Become League Threat - Not Just Circus Troupe Sunday Mail Brisbane 21 Jun 1953 28 Jan 2021 28 National Library of Australia Reardon Jack http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article202684844 Yanks Not 'All Stars' But Are All Stayers - Novices Gave Maroons Big Fright Truth Brisbane 21 Jun 1953 31 Jan 2021 15 National Library of Australia Tries: 9 Bob Buckley (4) Kel O'Shea (2) Neil Teys Athol Smith Tom Tyquin Goals: 6Norm Pope (6) Tries: 6 Vince Jones (2) Al D. Kirkland Ted Grossman George Kauffman Jack Bonetti Goals: 9Gary Kerkorian (9) June 24 Far North Queensland 1717 United States 16 America V. Renton Parramatta Park, Cairns 6,042 Gate: AU£ 1,202 Teamshttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article42769828 American Team Chosen For To-Day'S League Game Cairns Post Cairns 24 Jun 1953 31 Jan 2021 5 National Library of Australiahttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article42767046 Rugby League Team - Far Northern Players To Meet Americans Cairns Post Cairns 16 Jun 1953 31 Jan 2021 1 National Library of AustraliaReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article42783637 Torrid Rugby League Match Results In Draw Cairns Post Cairns 25 Jun 1953 31 Jan 2021 5 National Library of Australia Resulthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article62494440 South Townsville Associates Townsville Daily Bulletin Townsville 25 Jun 1953 1 Feb 2021 2 National Library of Australia Tries: 3 Gordon Farrelly (2) Roy Greenwood Goals: 4Gordon Farrelly (4) Tries: 3 Bill Albans Jack Bonetti Al D. Kirkland Goals: 4George Kauffman (3) Field Goals: 1 George Kauffman June 28 North Queensland Cairns 16 3817 United States 16 America R. Allison Townsville Sports Reserve 7,898 Gate: AU£ 1,552 TeamReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article62491344 North Queensland's First International Game Win Townsville Daily Bulletin Townsville 29 Jun 1953 1 Feb 2021 4 National Library of AustraliaPhotohttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article62491305 North Queensland Scores Against Ail Stars Townsville Daily Bulletin Townsville 29 Jun 1953 1 Feb 2021 3 National Library of Australia Tries: 8 Jack Fifield (2) Kel O'Shea (2) P. Farrell Max Short Keith Martin Trevor Whitehead Goals: 7R. Quinn (7) Tries: 3 Ted Grossman (2) Harold Han Goals: 4Gary Kerkorian (4) July 1 Central West Queensland 2621 United States 16 America Maquire Longreach 1,635 Gate: AU£ 400 Reporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article124265749 Yanks Go Down To Wests The Longreach Leader Longreach 3 Jul 1953 1 Feb 2021 23 National Library of AustraliaResulthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article62504435 Football - Central West Defeat All Stars Townsville Daily Bulletin Townsville 2 Jul 1953 1 Feb 2021 2 National Library of Australia Tries: 6 McDonald (4) Lionel Wheatley Norris Goals: 4Linde (4) Tries: 5 Alvin Kirkland Al D. Kirkland Harold Han Xavier Mena Al Abajian Goals: 3Gary Kerkorian (3) July 5 Central Queensland Balmain 16 3326 United States 16 America H. Gilbert Murray Street Grounds, Rockhampton 5,332 Gate: AU£ 1,154 Reporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article57260696 All Stars Beaten By Central Coast The Morning Bulletin Rockhampton 6 Jul 1953 2 Feb 2021 8 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article51078993 Han, Kirkland save huge All Star defeat The Courier-Mail Brisbane 6 Jul 1953 2 Feb 2021 7 National Library of Australia Tries: 9 Peter Robinson (4) W. Liddell (2) P. Sear (2) W. Clarke Goals: 3Ray Thomas (2) W. Liddell Tries: 6 Steve Drakulvich Ted Grossman Al Abajian Gary Kerkorian Mike Dimitro Harold Han Goals: 4George Kauffman (2) Al D. Kirkland Gary Kerkorian July 7 Brisbane St George 16 3926 United States 16 America Vic Lynagh Brisbane Cricket Ground 7,000 Gate: AU£ 1,050 Teamhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article51084406 Barnett out of Yankee match The Courier-Mail Brisbane 7 Jul 1953 2 Feb 2021 7 National Library of AustraliaReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article51068201 Leg-Weary Yankees Down To Brisbane The Courier-Mail Brisbane 8 Jul 1953 2 Feb 2021 12 National Library of Australia Reardon Jack Tries: 9 George Hayes (3) . Mundt (2) Len Blaik (2) Tom Tyquin Jack Veivers Goals: 6Norm Pope (6) Tries: 4 Al D. Kirkland Harold Han Al Abajian Fran Mandulay Goals: 7Gary Kerkorian (7) July 15 Toowoomba frameless|16x16px 2915 United States 16 America Vic Vercoe Toowoomba 5,778 Gate: AU£ 893 Reporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article186823003 Rugby League: All Stars Thrill Crowd Though Beaten Warwick Daily News Warwick 16 Jul 1953 2 Feb 2021 7 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article118419369 Toowoomba Beats Americans 29-15 The Queensland Times Ipswich 16 Jul 1953 2 Feb 2021 3 National Library of Australia Tries: 7 M. Higgins (3) Russ Brown (2) D. McMurtrie . Connolly Goals: 4M. Higgins (3) Cyril Connell Jr Tries: 3 Bill Albans Al Abajian Xavier Mena Goals: 3Gary Kerkorian (3) July 18 Ipswich Ireland 16 1516 United States 16 America Les McMahon North Ipswich Reserve 3,155 Gate: AU£ 645 Reporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article98278327 Yanks Won With "Ring-Ins" Sunday Mail Brisbane 19 Jul 1953 5 Feb 2021 28 National Library of Australia Linneth TomReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248588211 Yanks win rough game The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) Sydney 19 Jul 1953 2 Feb 2021 62 National Library of Australia Tries: 3 Jim Pegg (2) Gary Parcell Goals: 3Errol Meteyard (3) Tries: 4 Bill Albans Gary Kerkorian Alvin Kirkland Al Abajian Goals: 2Gary Kerkorian (2) July 19 Wide Bay St George 16 3333 United States 16 America Maryborough Showground 6,166 Gate: AU£ 1,124 Reporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article150517131 Carelessness Cost All Stars League Match Maryborough Chronicle Maryborough 20 Jul 1953 2 Feb 2021 2 National Library of AustraliaResulthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article51081838 Carelessness Costs All Stars A Victory The Courier-Mail Brisbane 20 Jul 1953 2 Feb 2021 6 National Library of Australia Tries: 7 D. Nixon (2) K. Drysdale K. Hutchins A. Anderson F. Heidke W. Faine Goals: 6F. Heidke (6) Tries: 7 Bob Buckley (2) Gary Kerkorian Bill Albans Alvin Kirkland Ted Grossman Al Abajian Goals: 6Gary Kerkorian (6) July 22 Riverina Western Suburbs 16 3014 United States 16 America Col Pearce ANZAC Park, Gundagai 2,560 Gate: AU£ 576 Teamhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article145663501 Riverina R.L. Team All From Group 9 The Daily Advertiser (Wagga Wagga) Wagga 16 Jul 1953 2 Feb 2021 6 National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248586692 Help for Yanks The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) Sydney 22 Jul 1953 2 Feb 2021 28 National Library of AustraliaReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article145668294 U.S. All Stars Outplayed By Riverina At Gundagai The Daily Advertiser (Wagga Wagga) Wagga 23 Jul 1953 1 Feb 2021 8 National Library of AustraliaResulthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article194256950 Easy Win For Riverina The Daily Examiner Grafton 23 Jul 1953 1 Feb 2021 4 National Library of Australia Tries: 6 Roley McDonell (2) George Robertson Len Koch Brian Longhurst Terry Brogan Goals: 6Len Koch (6) Tries: 2 Mike Dimitro Al D. Kirkland Goals: 4Gary Kerkorian (4) July 25 2.45pm New South Wales New South Wales 16 2718 United States 16 America Aub Oxford Sydney Cricket Ground 19,686 Gate: AU£ 2,272 ProgramReporthttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230351953 N.S.W. ahead of America in League The Sun (Sydney) Sydney 25 Jul 1953 5 Feb 2021 6 National Library of Australia Christensen E.E. http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248586389 Pidding's kicks save N.S.W against American tourists The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) Sydney 26 Jul 1953 5 Feb 2021 58 National Library of Australia Crawford George Tries: 5 Johnny Rouse Ferris Ashton Brian Carlson Harry Wells Noel Pidding Goals: 6Noel Pidding (6) Tries: 4 Ken McCaffery Brian Davies Bill Albans Al D. Kirkland Goals: 3Gary Kerkorian (3) New Zealand leg August 1 Auckland aucklandnzrl 16 5426 United States 16 America Carlaw Park, Auckland Tries: 12 Goals: 9 Tries: 6 Goals: 4 August 4 Taranaki Taranaki 16 1821 United States 16 America Pukekura Park, New Plymouth Tries: 4 Goals: 3 Tries: 5 Frank Mulcare (3) Travers Hardwick Roy Roff Goals: 3George Kauffman (2) Field Goals: 1 George Kauffman August 7 Wellington Wellington 16 817 United States 16 America Basin Reserve, Wellington Tries: Goals: Tries: Goals: George Kauffman (2) August 11 West Coast St Helens 16 2710 United States 16 America Wingham Park, Greymouth Tries: Goals: Tries: Goals: August 15 Canterbury canterburynzrl 16 398 United States 16 America Addington Showground, Christchurch 5,000 Tries: Goals: Tries: Goals: August 19 North Auckland Parramatta 16 625 United States 16 America Jubilee Park, To Whangerei 3,000 Tries: Goals: Tries: Goals: August 22 New Zealand Māori White 4023 United States 16 America Carlaw Park, Auckland Tries: Goals: Tries: Goals: August 24 South Auckland Balmain 16 192 United States 16 America Hamilton Tries: Goals: Tries: Goals: Sources Acronym Item Years Database App Notes Direct Online Access - Pratten Park Magpies 1953 Website Page Copies of photos and articles RLN Rugby League News 1920-1973 Trove Match Program in Sydney, Team Lists, Team Photos, Articles RLP Rugby League Project 1907–present RLP Website Match dates and scores Sun The Sun (Sydney) 1910-1954 Trove Match Reports, Articles. DT The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) 1931-1954 Trove Match Reports, Articles. CM The Courier-Mail 1933-1954 Trove Match Reports, Articles. - Various Australian Regional Newspapers up to 1954 Trove Match Reports, Given Names of Players Offline Resources - Gavin Willacy's No Helmets Required 1953 Copy at SLNSW First published in 2013. Interviews with many of the players, or their family members. History of the tour, with each match discussed. EECYB E.E. Christensen's Official Rugby League Year Book 1946-1978 Copies at SLNSW Teams, Point Scorers, Report. 1954 Yearbook includes a brief summary of the 1953 tour, with teams and point scorers for the three matches in Sydney. QRLG Queensland Rugby League Gazette 1950-1955 Copies at SLQ Program for matches in Brisbane. RRLG Rockhampton Rugby League Gazette 1951-1968 Copies at SLQ Program for matches in Rockhampton. - Ipswich Versus International TeamsIpswich Versus International Teams J.E. Christison 2012 J.E. Christison 978-0-98060-74-2-0 1913-1975 Copies at SLQ & NLA Match Report, Given Names & Club of Ipswich Players - A History of Mackay Rugby LeagueA History of Mackay Rugby League Tony Price 2015 CPX Printing and Logistics 978-0-646-94056-4 1919-2015 Author's Website Given Names & Club of Ipswich Players - More Than The Foley ShieldMore Than The Foley Shield - A History of Rugby League in Queensland Tony Price 2014 CPX Printing and Logistics 978-0-646-92820-3 1908-2014 Author's Website Match report, team photos. Given Names & Club of North Queensland Players References Category:Rugby league in the United States American All Stars tour of Australia and New Zealand American All Stars tour of Australia and New Zealand Category:Rugby league tours of Australia Category:Rugby league tours of New Zealand