Early years
Dick Lee was born in Collingwood on 19 March 1889 to Walter and Isabella Lee.
Football career
Lee played his first League game at age 16. He went on to play 230 games from 1906 to 1922, kicking a phenomenal 713 goals.
Despite undergoing a ground-breaking knee operation in 1912, Lee headed the goal-kicking ladder 8 times. He tied for the lead twice, a record that remained unchallenged for many years.
He was one of only 3 players chosen to play every interstate carnival between 1908 and 1921. He was also named the Victorian champion, an accolade rarely bestowed on a full forward.
Lee was a champion footballer who could star in defence on or off the ball. His goal tally would have been even higher had he not been so versatile.
A players’ representative for 9 years, Lee was Vice-Captain twice and Captain twice. His devotion to the club was legendary and he served 16 years as Vice-President.
On the streets of Collingwood during his playing days, people revered Lee as a god. His lengthy service and demeanour made him one of the most beloved figures in Collingwood club history.
Personal life
Lee married Zella (nee Dixon) in 1927 and they lived in St George’s Road, Northcote. Outside of the football world, he worked as a carrier.
Death
Dick Lee died on 11 September 1968 aged 78 and is buried with his parents and wife.
Bibliography
Adapted from material supplied by historian Dr Jan Penney, GMCT Trust member 2010-2020 and by the Friends of Coburg Cemetery Inc.
Roberts M & McFarlane G (2016) In Black and White: 125 moments that made Collingwood, Black Inc.
Roberts M (2011) The Mightiest Magpies: The story of every Collingwood premiership season, Penguin
Stremski R (1986) Kill for Collingwood, Allen and Unwin
Stremski R (1986) Lee, Walter Henry (Dick) (1889-1968), Australian Dictionary of Biography, Australian National University [website]
