2020-08-01 06:22:23 wrote:

Ormond was shocked to learn of the sudden passing of Alan McCarthy following a sudden illness. Alan played 99 games for Ormond over fourteen seasons from 1984-2007. He is one of forty two players to have represented Ormond in all six senior elevens. When he came to Ormond he was known as an opening in swing bowler but in his later seasons he developed his batting to the point where he would often open the innings. He took out the 3rd XI bowling average in 1987-88 including a spectacular 9/27 in one match. In the preceding season he claimed 8/24 in a game against Hampton. Prior to playing for Ormond , Alan played for Frankston in the VSDCA and was one of our opponents in an infamous Group Final where two ice blocks were placed on the pitch over night by ‘over zealous supporters’ before Ormond set out to chase Frankston’s score. Alan was member of the 1996/97 5th XI premiership team which featured a number of Ormond’s more experienced luminaries. His son Brendan also played for four seasons as a fast bowler including matches in the 2nd XI. Brother Michael played with the club for seven seasons including four years as Ist XI coach and /or captain coach. In 2005 when Michael’s son Liam was at Ormond there were four McCarthy family members playing for the club. Alan moved to umpiring in Premier Cricket in 2008-09 where has forged a successful career umpiring 203 games including 25 in the Ist XI. He was the current President of the VCA Umpires and Scorers Association having served on the committee since 2013. In his working life much of his time was serving with the Victorian Police Force. Alan was always willing to share his views in a considered way and was able to quickly pin point how clubs such as Ormond could improve when he spotted areas that needed attention. Everyone at Ormond extends their condolences to ‘Big Al’s’ family on the loss of a fine man.