Memorial Oval on Saturday for a dedication in Norm’s memory. ▪ Photo contributed
Another Cobar Roosters Legend was honoured by the Cobar Rugby League Club on Saturday with the main grandstand officially named in honour of Norm Armstrong.
Nicknamed The Cobar Flash, Norm was one of the finest players to ever wear the Cobar Roosters jersey.
Norm’s rise through the ranks began in 1971 when he helped lead the Cobar Roosters Under 18s to a premiership.
His outstanding performances earned him selection in the Group 15 Under 18s representative side in both 1971 and 1972.
Norm’s success continued into First Grade, representing Group 15 in 1973, 1974 and 1977.
More than just a gifted winger, Norm was admired for his work ethic, reliability and commitment to his teammates.
The defining chapter of his career came in 1974 when he was selected to represent Western Division in the inaugural Amco Cup.
In one of the greatest achievements in country rugby league history, the Western Division side stunned the rugby league world by defeating some of the game’s strongest clubs.
They overcame Auckland 13–7, edged out Canterbury 12–10, and held Manly to a 12–all draw before progressing on penalty countback, and then defeated Penrith 6–2 in a memorable grand final at Leichhardt Oval.
He coached Reserve Grade from 1978-1980 and was known as a great leader.
Norm was tragically killed in 1980 in a mining accident at the CSA Mine at age 25…See this week’s edition for the full report.
