HCC Life Member
Captain 3rd and 6th XI
Bill Cooper passed away in July 2025. He joined the Club in 1971 and played through to 1982. In his younger days, Bill was a tear-away quick, considered the fastest bowler in the Hampton area when playing for Hampton ANA.
He had lost a yard by the time he joined Hampton but was still a fine bowler in the lower elevens. Bill made his mark as Captain of the 3rds and 6ths where he mentored many young players and displayed a great understanding of the game. His captaincy was characterised by a naturally competitive nature but always moderated by a laconic, humorous approach. Bill was also influential in his role as junior manager and coach of several junior teams.
More importantly Bill was a wonderful character whose worldly-wise comments and droll sense of humour were appreciated by all Club members. He was a storyteller of the highest order. In recent years Bill was a great supporter of the First XI attending most games until his health made it impossible.
Condolences to the Cooper family.
Vale Bill
Some comments from his old clubmates
Russ Spurrell: Vale Billy Cooper. I can still remember the after-game speeches when we first moved from Ludstone street to David Rd, nobody would leave after a game until they had listened to Bill’s summary of their game – absolutely hilarious and no doubt boosted the bar sales greatly.
Andy Robertson: I recall Bill’s gentle smile, soft voice, sense of fun and his desire to share his cricketing skills. He was such a gracious man to have around the Club and he will be missed.
Glen Housden: Sad to hear of the passing of Bill. A true gentleman and an absolute legend of HCC. Vale Bill
Jim Westhead: Have great memories playing in the lower elevens with Bill. I’m sure in his youth he would have been as tough a competitor as his siblings ( yes, including Heather), but I cannot recall anyone saying a bad word about Billy. Truly a great bloke with a wealth of stories that will ensure he is remembered by many for a long time.
Greg Downes: Very sad news. A great guy and one of the characters of the HCC. Vale Billy.
Terry Nasser: A thorough gentleman and great company. Vale Bill
Peter Wright: I have had the pleasure of knowing Bill since the early 70’s and kept to him on several occasions. He was still quick back then. He was never one to lose his cool, even though I put down 2 catches in consecutive overs off him. Bill just stood there and shook his head for nearly a minute. I fortunately then took 2 catches off him to make up for it. ( that is to the best of my recollection !! ).
He was a thorough gentleman who was a great supporter of the cricket club, on field and off field. He would often check the score book when I scored for the ones. Many a time the words ‘another Hampton collapse‘ were spoken!!!
He was a great help with our juniors and assisted the club as one of the team managers over many years. This obviously was one of the many reasons, he was awarded a life membership. I will sadly miss him along with the other members of the ‘cheer squad‘ that religiously followed our 1st eleven, especially at David street.
VALE William Thomas Cooper
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