EJ Whitten
(1933 - 1995)

Everybody has a favourite Ted Whitten Story. Whether it be about the day he duped his best mate, Bob Skilton, at the coin toss, how he dished out the treatment to opponents, or how he loved to "stick it up" the South Australians.

He was a natural in front of the camera. and behind the microphone. It was here where so many people forged their friendship, respect and fondness of the larrikan, with his personality and his booming voice.

Just how much Teddy had touched the public was exhibited when they in turn reached out to him during his illness. It was every man's worst moment the day Ted Whitten Jr solemnly announced his father had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. But bravery is a Whitten legacy. Together in 1995, father and son went to the MCG one last time for the State of Origin match. Teddy emerged for one last audience with the public and players. Thanks, prayers, applause and cheers cascaded over Teddy. It was perhaps the most emotional day the great old stadium had ever seen.

He gathered his troops and and exhorted then for one last stand, "It's got to be a do or die effort. You've got to show me all of the guts and determination you've got in your bodies. You've got to inspire me with this last quarter bid..." Teddy was not asking his players to do anything he wouldn't do or be himself. At the end of the match Teddy wept, but would never admit it. It was the rain on his face, he said.