Michael McDonald began his touch career at Parramatta but soon found himself refereeing at Wests and quickly cemented himself as the club’s best with the whistle.
He quickly sought his next challenge…coaching. In 1982 Mick coached the 2nd division Men’s team that included future stars in Sam Ayoub and Keith Rozairo. He went on to coach the club in 296 games. He has also coached, Sydney Mets, NSW, Lebanon, and Australia.
In 1985 he took over the running of the club. A task he handled on his own without the need for a committee. After a rebuilding period success came in 1989 when Wests won the Men’s Open division of the Vawden Cup. The first of many successes under his presence, either as sole administrator or latterly, as President.
He was granted Life Membership of Western Suburbs in 1994.
He accumulated many honours including the Sam Ziade Trophy, Wests Clubman of the Year, and the NSW Blues Award.
In 2011 the Player’s Player award for Mixed Open was renamed the McDonald Trophy
For his coaching and managing efforts he has appeared in Wests annual All-Star team 5 times.
Michael McDonald has stepped down as President of Western Suburbs Touch after sixteen years in the role. The significance of this reign is that is twice that of next in line, Jim Quinn who was president for 7 years.
But don’t worry, Mick will still be around in his coaching capacity so make sure to stop and thank him for such a huge innings!
