Ferris Ashton: 1926-2013

The Sydney Roosters have been saddened to hear about the passing of club and rugby league legend, Ferris Ashton.

A life member of the Roosters, 86 year-old Ferris passed away late this afternoon following a brief illness.

Roosters player number 374, Ferris was a loyal clubman who played for Easts after serving in the Navy during the latter part of the Second World War. He played 84 games for the club from 1950-1956, captained Easts during the mid-1950s and was captain-coach in 1954. He also represented his state and country in the game of rugby league.

The club extends their heartfelt sympathies to Ashton's wife Patricia and to their children Michael, Michelle, Kelly and Greg and their families.

His legacy and passion for our proud club and the game of rugby league will never be forgotten.

Ferris Arthur 'Ferdie' Ashton
Born:                                       August 21, 1926, Darlinghurst, NSW
Junior Football:                       Bronte/Bondi United
Club:                                        Eastern Suburbs
Position:                                  Second Row
Premiership Career 1950-56: Played 84. Tries 20, Points 60
First Grade Debut:                  Easts v Balmain at Drummoyne Oval, 25/4/1950 (Rd 5)
Australia:                                 Tests 8 (1952-53)
New South Wales:                  Matches 5 (1952-53)
City Firsts:                               1952
City Seconds:                         1954
Other information:                   Served with the Australian Navy 1944-47
                                                Toured with the Kangaroos 1952-53
                                                Toured New Zealand with the Australian team 1953
                                                Captain-coached Easts 1954