He is one of the most iconic sports figures in St George and the Sutherland Shire and next month the community will come together to celebrate his legacy.
Dick Caine has turned countless local athletes into champions in his time as a coach. Caine, with his wife Jenny, have leased the Carss Park Memorial Pool for 50 years and it is there that he also taught so many to swim and improve their fitness in the gym as well as guiding a legion of athletes to higher achievements.
An appreciation dinner to honour Team Caine will be held at Club Central Hurstville on August 24, hosted by Wallabies legend Phil Kearns, with many of Caine’s former athletes from his half-century career expected to attend.
He has coached 17 world and Olympic champions as well St George Illawarra rugby league teams and his stable over the years has included swimming greats Michelle Ford, Susie Maroney, Janelle Elford and Stacey Gartrell as well as triathlon stars Michellie Jones, Greg Welch and Chris McCormack.
Former Australian rugby union captain Kearns, rugby league stars including Lance Thompson, Dutton brothers – Olympic cycling medallist Brett and Australian Open surf champion Stuart – and boxing world champions Jeff Fenech, Anthony Mundine and Kostya Tszyu have all also spent time under Caine’s watchful eye.
Caine’s legacy is not restricted to the pool or the gym. Away from sport he has raised millions of dollars for charities including St George Hospital, Cancer Care and the Bali Christmas Remembrance Day. He has also helped local lions and rotary clubs as well as many sporting clubs and schools.
Long standing St George Cycling Club president and cycling identity Phill Bates AM said the honour was well deserved.
After giving so much to the community, it is time for us to say thank you to Dick and Jenny.
- Phill Bates AM
“After giving so much to the community it is time for us to say thank you to Dick and Jenny,” he said.
“Former Wallaby captain Phil Kearns will be master of ceremonies for the night and he will interview a number of our well-known champions.”
All are welcome at the event to be held in the Biddegal Rooms at Club Central Hurstville from 6pm to 11pm, with tickets available online here.
Prices are $80 for single tickets or doubles for $150.
