On behalf the ECA Community, we extend our condolences to the family and friends of Ian Speed who passed away recently. Thank you to Matt Knott from Balwyn Saints who has provided this reflection on Ian's life.
It is with great sadness we announce that Ian Speed has passed away.
Ian was a life member of St Silas CC, in turn Balwyn Saints CC, in addition to being a life member of the ESCCA, now ECA.
In his day, Ian was an incredible cricketer, scoring 8554 runs at 43 and taking 200 wickets at 18.43. Ian won the association batting average in a premiership season for St. Silas beating the Barnies in 1977/78. In the following season, he won the A Grade association bowling award with 20 wickets @ 13.15.
But that's not where Ian left cricket. He worked tirelessly to give back to the game, club and association he loved through various committees, including working alongside ESCCA/ECA greats Keith Carr, Barry Tobias and Ian Stuart to name just a few. Ian was certainly someone that when he spoke, you listened to his stories of the good old days and the advice that he offered.
He was a Hawthorn FC superfan and attended 12 of their 13 premiership wins. After cricket he also developed a love for bowls and the North Balwyn Bowls club.
Our thoughts and support go out to his wife Kay, and children David, Andrew and Meredith.
A memorial will be held on 27th September from 2:30pm at North Balwyn Bowls Club, Buchanan Avenue.
A true cricketer and gentleman that will be missed by all.
Kind Regards,
Matt Knott
Balwyn Saints CC Vice President